My dad and I are huge war buffs and I noticed Ypres isn't to far from Bruges. We will be visiting Bruges for part of the day and were thinking about going to Ypres. How is the town, is it worth visiting? Thanks!
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32206 posts
Brendon, The town of Ypres is nice, but the most interesting and significant WW-I sites are in several locations in the immediate area. You might consider taking one of the excellent battlefield tours available in that area, as you'd learn far more about the history than just wandering around on your own. I can't remember the name of the Guide that provided our tour last year, but might be able to find some information by checking my notes. Happy travels!
Posted by
Danville, VT
12040 posts
As Ken mentioned, most of the WWI-related sites are scattered outside of town in the surrounding countryside. The town itself is a complete post-war rebuild. Usually in Europe, that means lots of ugly concrete blocks, but Ieper was rebuilt in a much more traditional style. I guess post-WWI rebuilding was a little more traditionally oriented than post WWII. To look at it, you would think it was as old as Brugge. Definitely an attractive, if rather small city. One of the most helpful TI's I've found anywhere in Europe is located in the rebuilt Cloth Hall. Make this your first stop for information on tours.
Posted by
Atlanta, GA, USA
127 posts
Brendon, If you have time, you might want to consider the Quasimodo Flanders Field tour. Our tour with them was exceptional and gave us such insight into the war. However, it is an all day tour. http://www.quasimodo.be/index.php/bus-trips
Posted by
Denver, CO
731 posts
If you'll be there after 6/11/12, you can visit the In Flanders Fields museum which is supposed to be a fantastic WWI museum. It's reopening 6/11 after an expansion and remodel. http://www.inflandersfields.be/en
Posted by
Texan in CA
4407 posts
I'm not clear on something - are you visiting Bruges for part of a day, and wanting to use part of THAT day to go to Ieper? My husband and father-in-law spent a long, full day there (took the train); they want to go back and see more. They had a great time...I know they went to the museum and the war cemetery a few blocks away; if you want some more specific info I'll be happy to ask him. If you ask me for more info but don't hear back from me, just send me a Private Message ;-)