I am chaperoning a group of college students next spring on a trip to Belgium. We are able to take one day trip outside of Brussels. Which would you recommend if you had to choose between the two - Antwerp or Bruges - and why? Thanks!

Never been to Antwerp but have been to Brugge. It is a charming medieval town with canals. Called the Venice of the west. Great architecturee, intersting museums, great walks, shops and just plain charming city.

Brugge.Trust me.

I have visited both Antwerp and Bruges (or Antwerpen and Brugge to give them their Flemish names) many times. While I think that Antwerp has many attractions, Bruges is clearly the star. Don't miss it!

ANTWERP

A fabulous city, visit Ruben's house and the diamond quarter. However, far more remarkable is the ModePaleis - the Dries van Noten flagship store, fabulous interiors and they stock the full collections. Plenty of other superb shops, such as Verso - you should try to get there early as one day is very little time.

MK2: Have you been to Brugge?

There are a few Belgians that could answer this but so far I haven't seen them here!

I've been to Brugge and it is unquestionably lovely but all I've heard about Antwerp makes it right at the top of my list for my next trip.

If I were a 1st timer I guess I would chose Brugge..much smaller and "quaint"..at least that is the impression I get.

Thanks for the replies. While I have been to Bruges before (30 years ago), none of my students have been to either city. So, I guess my personal choice would be to go somewhere I've never been (Antwerp). It seems there are plusses to both!

Here's one of the Belgians, living close to Antwerp!
While I love Brugge, and believe me, I really do, for me it's a pure tourist town with *only* quaint little streets and quaint little houses where you will pay far too much for your chocolate and lace to take home!
Antwerp has also those quaint little streets with the same little houses. But it has more. Antwerp is a city where people actually live and work. After all, the Port of Antwerp is one of the biggest main ports in the world!
In terms of architecture and culture you will be very fine in both cities. Brugge is the very compact one, Antwerp is somewhat bigger, there are more churches and museums but everything is a bit further apart, although easily walkable.
Is there anything special you would want your students to see?

jody, you know you are most welcome, any time!

I agree with Myriam. While Brugge is beautiful and quaint, college students will probably like Antwerp more. It has some very hip shopping (Kammenstraat), great atmosphere. Brugge is, compared to Antwerp, much more village-like.
You know best what those kids would prefer though!

Hi sweet mom,

We stayed in Bruges for 2 or 3 days, enjoyed the canals, churches, foods etc.
From Brussels we went by train for a one day visit to Antwerp. If ever we get back to Belgium, we will spend much more time in Antwerp.

If I were escourting students, I think Antwerp would be more educational and interesting. They can learn about the diamond industry, see the world famous art and impressive churches. For a diversion they can also visit the zoo.

Which ever city you choose it will be time well spent. Enjoy

Jim

Next trip, Myriam!

I PROMISE!!!