Trip Information
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By coach with allocated seating
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Dover - Calais
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Optional at extra cost on - board ship
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Ostend Hotel
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Continental breakfast
Itinerary
Your holiday begins as you depart from your allocated local pick-up point and meet your friendly Vista by Coach driver and fellow travellers. Sit back and relax as we journey towards Dover, making convenient comfort stops en route for refreshments and rest.
Upon arrival in Dover, we board the Dover–Calais ferry for our Channel crossing (approx. 90 minutes). During the sailing, you can enjoy a range of onboard facilities including cafés, restaurants, and duty-free shopping. Meals and refreshments are available at extra cost. As you cross the Channel, take in the sea views and perhaps step out on deck for some fresh sea air.
Once we disembark in Calais, we continue our scenic journey across northern France into Belgium, travelling onward to the elegant seaside resort of Ostend (approx. 2½ to 3 hours’ drive). On arrival, we check into the comfortable Ostend Hotel, perfectly located near the promenade and within walking distance of shops, cafés, and attractions.
The evening is free for you to explore Ostend at leisure. Stroll along the lively seafront, visit the famous Ostend Bottle Bar to sample a fantastic selection of Belgian beers, or enjoy fresh seafood at one of the city’s inviting restaurants.
After a continental breakfast, rejoin our coach for an included excursion to Bruges, one of Europe’s most charming medieval cities. Known as the “Venice of the North”, Bruges captivates visitors with its picturesque canals, cobbled streets, and beautiful architecture.
You’ll have ample free time to explore at your own pace – perhaps visit the Market Square with its iconic Belfry Tower, take a canal boat trip, or explore the Chocolate Museum or Lace Centre (admission fees not included). The Church of Our Lady, housing Michelangelo’s “Madonna and Child,” and the Basilica of the Holy Blood are also must-see attractions. Don’t forget to indulge in some Belgian chocolate, waffles, or frites before returning to Ostend later in the afternoon.
Spend the evening at leisure back in Ostend – maybe enjoy a relaxed seaside walk, visit a local café, or enjoy the warm Belgian hospitality in the town’s many bars.
After breakfast, we check out of the Ostend Hotel and load our luggage onto the coach for our return journey. Before crossing back to the UK, we make a stop at the Pidou Wine Market near Calais – a perfect opportunity to pick up wines, beers, and spirits at excellent prices.
We then board the return ferry to Dover (approx. 90 minutes). Once back in the UK, our coach will continue to your original drop-off point, making comfort stops en route as required.
Arrive home with fond memories of your Belgian coastal escape.
