best places to visit in ypres belgium

Home » Travel Guides » Belgium » 14 Best Things to Do in Ypres (Belgium)

14 Best Things to Do in Ypres (Belgium)

Ypres (also known as Ieper) is a place with a haunting past. Expect to be moved when visiting this city that played such an important role in the First World War and saw the loss of a generation of soldiers during the fierce battles that took place here and in the surrounding areas. It is believed that 300,000 soldiers lost their lives on the front line here known as the Salient. As you would expect there are plenty of war museums, memorials, military cemeteries and battlefields to tour, learn about and respectfully explore.

If you are visiting Ypres, you should be prepared to visit many sombre places but there is also plenty of charm in the city to appreciate too. Surprisingly much of the medieval architecture remains or has been restored and like many Belgian cities, the market square contains an impressive array of architecture. There is also good food, with particular attention paid to traditional Flemish cuisine and of course more beer.

No matter what you do in the city of Ypres, your thoughts will not be far from the devastation and loss of World War 1 and the city will ultimately always be haunted by its past.

Lets explore the best things to do in Ypres :

1. Be moved by Flanders Fields

The in-Flanders Fields museum in Ypres is one of the city’s top attractions.

The museum, which explores all aspects of WW1 uses various media and sensory experiences including videos, sounds and smells to fully immerse visitors.

There are even interactive experiences including selecting a war time persona and following their trials and tribulations throughout the war.

2. Pay your respects at the Menin Gate Memorial

Another landmark relating back to the First World War, the Menin Gate is a memorial to the 55,000 soldiers who went missing in action during the First World War.

The structure itself is a colossal stone archway that crosses the city moat at the eastern exit of the city.

The names of the British and Commonwealth soldiers who went missing during the war are all inscribed on the monument and make for a chilling sight.

3. Pop into the Belle Almshouse

The Belle Almshouse is a tiny chapel that is tucked away in Ypres and is very easy to miss.

Do not expect to see the Notre Dame is rather plain and unassuming and is nestled between other buildings on Rijelstraat.

Inside the church however there is hidden treasure.

The chapel is full of fantastic artwork dating back as far as medieval times.

The art is mainly religious but travellers will enjoy the satisfaction of stumbling upon this hidden gem.

4. Marvel at the Lakenhalle

The Lakenhalle is the most impressive building in Ypres and arguably the most impressive in the entire country.

It is located in the Grote Markt and has been restored almost entirely to its 14th Century glory.

The stand out features of the buildings design include the whopping 70-meter-high belfry tower and the large central windows.

It is possible to climb the tower but it will cost you an extra 2 Euros, charged upon entrance to the Flanders Fields museum.

5. Eat some baked goods

The Henk Bakery on Sint-Jakobstraat has become something of an icon.

It is known by locals and tourists alike for its great bread, cakes and puddings and will regularly be heaving with hungry customers.

The price of its goods does not reflect the bakery’s popularity however and the Henk Bakery still offers great value with a serving of its famous broodpudding costing only 40 cents.

6. Watch the Last Post ceremony

The moving Last Post ceremony takes place daily at 8pm.

Traffic passing through the Menin Gate temporarily comes to a halt as buglers sound the Last Post in remembrance of the soldiers who lost their lives in the First World War.

The tradition started back in 1928 and still changes each evening with different instruments or soldiers being present meaning that it is worthwhile to watch the event more than one time.

The Gate gets busy around the time of the Last Post every evening so be there in good time to ensure yourself a decent view.

7. Visit one of the city’s best art museums

The Stedelijk Museum, located on Leperleestraat, is a small but impressive art museum.

The exhibits here feature art from the 19th Century mainly but they are regularly changing and it is unlikely that two visits will ever be the same.

The artwork is housed over three floors in the almshouse building which dates back to the mid-16th Century.

The price here is steep for anyone other than serious art enthusiasts with an adult entry costing 15 Euros, students can get in for half that.

8. Enjoy some local cuisine

Ypres is a great place to taste true Flemish fodder and the best of the best is surely De Ruyffelaer on Gustave de Stuersstraat.

The restaurant is cutesy and cosy both inside and out with a wood clad interior and fire place complemented by artwork and various antiques.

Flemish dishes include pâté, various game and plenty of pork dishes (the pork knuckle is excellent) all cooked in traditional Flemish methods and resulting in food as comforting as the surroundings.

9. Tour the Flanders Battlefield

Ypres, or Wipers as it was known by the British Army, was the scene of destruction and loss on an epic scale for four years throughout the First World War.

In this area, it is thought that 35 men were lost for every metre gained by the British Army.

The organised tours available here include not only the battlefields themselves but also the museums and military cemeteries around the city.

The tour guides aim to balance giving tour groups plenty of information and facts whilst remaining respectful and ultimately remembering the sacrifice made by those who lost their lives here.

10. Climb the man-made Hill 60

Another historic site that was of great importance during the First World War is the man-made defensive position referred to as Hill 60. What will surprise you about the hill after reading about the amount of lives lost here is how small it is.

During the First World War the hill transferred between the French, Germans and British troops.

There is a small fee for exploring hill 60 but it is well worth paying in order to walk in the trenches and imagine what life must have been like for the soldiers during those years.

11. Walk along the Vauban Ramparts

You can join the Vauban Ramparts at the Menin Gate Memorial and continue along the canal, enjoying peaceful surroundings and plenty of benches along the tree-lined path.

The walk is generally calm compared to other places in Ypres and is a great place to escape the busy hot, streets in the height of summer.

The ramparts themselves date back to the 17th Century and were used to fortify Ypres when it was just a village.

12. Eat some chocolate

After visiting many sombre war museums, battlefields and graveyards you could well need cheering up, if so there is no better place than the Leonidas Chocolaterie.

Belgian chocolate is known throughout the world for its quality and Leonidas is a great example.

The chocolatiers are still active and you can watch the process of making the chocolates, enjoy some free samples and no doubt buy bucket loads of the sweet stuff to take home with you.

You can find Leonidas on the Grote Markt.

13. Tour the Kazematten Brewery

What could be better than world-class chocolate? World class beer of course! The Kazematten brewery is housed in a historic building which dates back to the 18th Century and was used for ammunition storage during the First World War.

It is now known for its great beers and is open to the public every Saturday from 3pm – 5pm.

Tours begin every half an hour, cost ten euros per adult and include three beer tastings.

Private tours can be arranged by appointment only.

14. Walk around the Market Square

Many of the above-mentioned attractions can be found in the city’s market square but it is worth a visit on its own merits.

The square is home to many spectacular looking buildings that should be seen in daylight and after sunset for spectacular effect.

The square is also home to great restaurants, pubs and other things to do including an ice rink and Christmas markets during the festive months.

14 Best Things to Do in Ypres (Belgium):

• Be moved by Flanders Fields
• Pay your respects at the Menin Gate Memorial
• Pop into the Belle Almshouse
• Marvel at the Lakenhalle
• Eat some baked goods
• Watch the Last Post ceremony
• Visit one of the city’s best art museums
• Enjoy some local cuisine
• Tour the Flanders Battlefield
• Climb the man-made Hill 60
• Walk along the Vauban Ramparts
• Eat some chocolate
• Tour the Kazematten Brewery
• Walk around the Market Square

12 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Ypres

Written by Jess Lee Updated Dec 22, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Ypres (in Flemish "Ieper") is associated with some of the most bitter battles of the First World War, when the countryside around town became the site of major trench warfare, and the town itself was almost completely destroyed. Today, the cemeteries and preserved battlefields of this era are a major pilgrimage site.

Ypres itself was founded in the 10th century, and during the Middle Ages was one of Belgium's most important towns (together with Ghent and Bruges ) thanks to its prosperous cloth making.

Ypres managed to retain most of its ancient buildings and evidence of former splendor until the First World War, when Ypres stood in the line of fire and was subject to continuous bombardment by artillery. It has since been rebuilt according to the original plans, and the architecture of the central town is the main sightseeing attraction away from the museums and military sites.

Discover the best places to visit in this historic city with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Ypres.

1. WWI Battlefields

2. visit the in flanders fields museum, 3. come to menin gate for the last post, 4. admire the architecture of the grote markt, 5. visit sint-maartenskathedraal, 6. hooge crater memorial museum, 7. st. george's memorial church, 8. walk along the fortifications of rijselpoort, 9. tyne cot cemetery, 10. german war cemetery, 11. pay your respects at the memorials around kemmelberg, 12. the merghelynck and stedelijk museums, where to stay in ypres for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in ypres.

The area all around Ypres was, in the four years of 1914 to 1918, the scene of some of the bloodiest battles of the First World War. The dead are buried in 170 war cemeteries, and their graves are still visited by relatives.

From Ypres, Route 14-18 is signposted to the most important battle zones. An unmarked 63-kilometer tour through the battlefields begins at the Menin Gate.

Take road N345 and N332 heading northeast through one of the most hotly contested areas, past several British cemeteries and trench warfare battlefields for nine kilometers to view the major sites along the way to the village of Zonnebeke.

Completely destroyed after the war, it now has an attractive church with a freestanding belfry dating from 1921.

Ypres' huge Lakenhalle (cloth hall) takes over one side of the central Grote Markt square. The large hall on the first floor is open to visitors and houses the In Flanders Fields Museum , dedicated to chronicling the heavy fighting of the First World War in and around Ypres.

Multi-media exhibits tell the personal stories from the soldiers who fought here, and displays include uniforms and equipment of all the armies, some architectural remains of the Lakenhalle, and pictures of old Ypres. There is also a regular program of temporary exhibitions.

It is also possible to climb the 231 steps up to the top of the cloth hall's belfry for views across the town and the surrounding battlefields.

The original cloth hall building was begun around 1260 and completed in 1304 but it was completely destroyed in the First World War. The new structure is one of the finest and largest secular buildings in Europe.

The extent of the hall in which the cloth was stored, checked, and sold, is indicative of the power wielded by the guilds within the town. Above the entrance door is the statue of the patron saint Onze-Lieve-Vrouw-van-Thuyne; in the niches are statues of count Baldwin and Mary of Constantinople together with King Albert I and Queen Elizabeth.

On the east wing of the cloth hall, a town hall was added in 1619 in the style of the Spanish Renaissance, which has also been reconstructed. It bears the coat of arms of the Spanish King Philip II

Address: Grote Markt, central Ypres

Official site: https://www.inflandersfields.be/

From the east end of the Grote Markt it is just a short distance to the Menin Gate, built by the architect Sir Reginald Blomfield on the site of the medieval town gate, through which the British soldiers marched to the front.

The Menin Gate is the starting point for any battlefield tour and today, the gate serves as a memorial to the First World War with the names of the 54,896 British soldiers who were killed or missing in action inscribed under its arches.

Every evening at 8pm since 1928, The Last Post is sounded here.

Address: Menenstraat, central Ypres

One of the most distinctive architectural elements to the Grote Markt is the 70-meter-high-square belfry which projects from the center of the Lakenhalle and is visible from the surrounding countryside.

Its carillon of 49 bells plays from June to October at 9pm. From the tower, which is a UNESCO site, there is a superb view over the plain of Flanders.

Opposite the Lakenhalle to the south, on the corner of Boomgaardstraat, stands the Nieuw Vleeshuis (meat hall), dating back to 1277, where meat was sold on Saturdays until 1947.

At the north end of the Grote Markt on the left is the Kasselrijgebouw (Old Town Hall) with the Seven Deadly Sins represented in the gables.

Address: Grote Markt, central Bruges

Behind the Cloth Hall to the north stands Sint-Maartenskathedraal. The church was originally built in the 13th century, and its south entrance and tower added in the 15th century, but having been completely destroyed during the war, the church was totally rebuilt in 1922.

Its large-scale proportions are reminiscent of the monumental French cathedrals, with the tower more than 100 meters high.

Inside, you can view some art treasures that survived the bombardment of the war. In particular, the church is home to a brass font (dating to around 1600) and the picture of Onze-Lieve-Vrouw-van Thuyne, which is traditionally believed to have miraculous powers.

Also inside the church are the tombs of Bishop Jansenius, the founder of Jansenism; Georgius Chamberlain, sixth bishop of Ypres; and Count Robrecht of Bethune.

The church's glass paintings are a present from Great Britain to commemorate the war losses.

Address: Sint-Maartensplein, central Ypres

This private museum, inside a chapel that was built here in 1927, is five kilometers east of central Ypres. The museum is set on the front line battlefield site, where, in July 1915, British troops set off a mine explosion in an attempt to destroy the advantageous observation point German troops had. The explosion created what became known as the Hooge Crater (which has long since been filled in).

The collection includes an extensive range of uniforms, weaponry, and equipment from all the armies involved in the battles, as well as dioramas that depict life for the troops in the trenches and bunkers, and photographs from the battlefront.

The Hooge Crater Military Cemetery for Commonwealth soldiers is next door to the museum.

Address: Ypres-Menin Road, Hooge

Official site: https://www.hoogecrater.com/en/

North of the cathedral, opposite the Ypres Schouwburg theater on the corner of Vandenpeerboomplein, is St. George's Memorial Church.

The Anglican Church commissioned Sir Reginald Blomfield to build this church in 1927 to commemorate the soldiers of the British Commonwealth who were killed in battle in Flanders during the First World War.

The entire interior of the church, together with the statue of St. George and the plaque with the famous poem In Flanders Field , was funded by Great Britain and the Commonwealth.

Address: Elverdingsestraat, central Ypres

The Rijselstraat ends at the Rijselpoort (also known as the Lilletor, and in English as the Lille Gate), a massive fortified gate from the Burgundian period. This is the only one of Ypres' original city gates that has survived with its rooms intact.

During the First World War, the British general staff had its headquarters in the casemates. Near here, the gate ruins of the old ramparts can still be seen.

For tourists interested in Ypres history, a walk along the fortifications is a must. Not far from the gate, just inside the ramparts, is an interesting attraction - the 16th-century 'Houten Huis', a painstakingly restored example of one of 90 traditional wooden houses in the area.

Address: Rijselstraat, central Ypres

Near the hamlet of Nieuwe-Molden, about 12 kilometers northeast of Ypres, is the largest British war cemetery in Flanders. Tyne Cot Cemetery was laid out by Sir Reginald Blomfield with almost 12,000 war graves and a memorial to 35,000 soldiers missing after August 16, 1917.

The location affords one of the best views of the former battlefields.

From the Tyne Cot Cemetery, a narrow road leads to the N313. A short distance south of the junction, at the crossing with the road to Langemark, a memorial commemorates the 2,000 Canadians who died in the first German gas attack in 1915.

About three kilometers from the Canadian monument, the pretty village of Langemark was much contested in the war and has a huge German war cemetery (almost 45,000 graves).

At Langemark, in 1914, thousands of young, inexperienced recruits, mostly students and schoolboys, lost their lives; a fact which was exploited by the propaganda machine of the Third Reich and even today can be seen as being symbolic of the spontaneous willingness of youth to make sacrifices.

From Langemark, return towards Ypres, past the British cemetery of Cementhouse, to Boezinge with a view of the silhouette of Ypres.

At De Klijte (10 kilometers from Dikkebus), turn left to arrive at the village of Kemmel; two kilometers southwest of here rises Kemmelberg, the easternmost spur of an upland range in West Flanders that was much contested during World War I.

There is a panoramic view over Ypres and the plain of Flanders from the top. A large French communal cemetery (about 5,300 graves) with a memorial crowned by the Gallic cockerel lies on its western slope.

In Mesen, five kilometers beyond Kemmel, are several war cemeteries. The elevated ground north, between Mesen and Wijtschate, was taken by the British in 1917 by massive mine blasting. One of the largest mine craters of that battle, Lone Tree Crater, is now a small lake and is preserved as a memorial, known as the Pool of Peace. From here, you can continue on the N365 north, back towards Ypres.

Some five kilometers beyond Wijtschate, a small road turning off to the right leads to the village of Zillebeke and to Hill 60, four kilometers south east. It was an important artillery observation post and the center of heavy fighting, now crowned by two British memorials.

The Merghelynck Museum is housed in the old home, dating back to 1774, of Frans Merghelynck, who was once the treasurer for Empress Maria Theresia. Part of the splendid Louis XV and Louis XVI interior survived the First World War and is definitely worth a look.

Diagonally opposite the Merghelynck Museum is the 13th-century Steenhuis, now a post office, the only stone building left standing in Ypres.

At the south end of the Rijselstraat, a narrow street leads off to the right to the Stedelijk Museum, which functioned as a hospital for the poor in the 13th century and now documents the town's history in a series of exhibits.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• A lovely mid-range accommodation is Main Street Boutique Hotel , a quaint place with eclectic décor that merges the homey feel of a farmhouse with modern polish. The hosts serve an incredible breakfast spread using local organic foods, and rooms are non-smoking, air-conditioned, and have free Wi-Fi. It is conveniently located just a few blocks from the major tourist attractions and things to do, including the In Flanders Fields Museum and the Merghelynck Museum .
• Another good option is the Ariane Hotel , a modern hotel that offers rooms, suites, and family rooms. Breakfast and Wi-Fi are included, and there is an on-site restaurant, as well as a business center and concierge.

Budget Hotels :

• Located just up the street from the Merghelynck Museum and within a five-minute walk of most attractions, the Ambrosia Hotel is a good budget option that provides clean, comfortable rooms. Breakfast is included, as is Wi-Fi. Bicycle and scooter rentals are also available.
• Located just outside the center of town near the Menin Gate Memorial, Kasteelhof 't Hooghe is a good budget hotel for tourists with vehicles. This pet-friendly hotel serves a complimentary breakfast, and Wi-Fi is free for guests; rooms are homey and spacious.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Normandy D-Day Beaches and Memorials : Located near French Normandy , Ypres is just one of the many World War II sites in the area. Tourists visiting Ypres can easily explore the Normandy D-Day memorials and beaches , as well as numerous museums and cemeteries.

Medieval Bruges : North of Ypres, historic Bruges is known for its distinct medieval architecture and charming, narrow streets and canals. Bruges is a popular place for tourists to stay while exploring the nearby coastal towns , including the high-end beach community of Knokke-Heist.

Romantic Ghent : Another beautiful old Flemish town, the city of Ghent is famous for its picturesque canals and beautiful architecture. Unlike Bruges, Ghent is not packed with tourists, making this an excellent place for visitors who want to experience authentic Flemish culture.

• (1) Cloth Hall
• (2) "Nieuwerk" (Stadhuis)
• (3) St Maartenskathedraal
• (4) Schouwburg
• (5) St George's Memorial Church
• (6) Vleeshuis
• (7) Gerechtshof (law courts)
• (8) Kasselijgebouw
• (9) Ypres Reservoir Military Cemetery
• (10) Rampart Military Cemetery

More on Belgium

15 Fun things to do in Ypres: A Visitor’s Travel Guide

December 2, 2023 | Posted in: Belgium

Ypres stands as a living testament to a history steeped in valour, resilience and regeneration. Once a bustling hub of the cloth industry, Ypres witnessed significant turmoil during the Great Wars, only to rise again, showcasing an undying spirit that resonates with every visitor who graces its streets. As one embarks upon a journey to explore this remarkable city, a kaleidoscope of experiences awaits. The history of Ypres, vividly etched in its architectural marvels and commemorated in its memorials, beckons history enthusiasts and curious travellers alike. Ypres narrates tales of ancient times, where bustling markets thrived and the art of cloth making flourished. Embarking upon exploring the attractions in Ypres unfolds a journey through time. The solemn Menin Gate stands as a silent guardian, bearing the names of those who gave their lives in pursuing freedom during the First World War. Not far off, the In Flanders Fields Museum beckons with a promise of deeper insight into wartime experiences, offering a window into the past that is both moving and educational. Ypres doesn't just dwell in the past, though. The vibrant Grote Markt square, lined with cafes and shops, offers a delightful juxtaposition of history and modernity, a place where one can soak in the present-day vigour of the city. As visitors traverse Ypres, the ease of transportation becomes evident. Ypres boasts a well-connected network of roads and railways, facilitating seamless journeys to and from various Belgian cities . Whether one travels by car or prefers the scenic views offered by train journeys, reaching Ypres and commuting within the city is a hassle-free experience. Ypres encourages eco-friendly transportation options, with numerous walking paths and cycling routes that allow one to explore the region leisurely, absorbing the richness of the surroundings at every turn.

Listed below are the things to do in Ypres.

• Visit the Flanders Fields Museum. The In Flanders Fields Museum teaches visitors about the human impact of WWI, especially in the Ypres Salient area. Visitors receive a poppy bracelet that activates multimedia displays telling stories of those who lived through the war. The museum features artifacts, films, visuals and soundscapes that provide an immersive and emotional experience, including hearing bombs and seeing gas seep into trenches. Visitors can climb a belfry with 231 steps for views over the rebuilt town and surrounding battlefield area that shows the utter destruction caused. A visit takes 1.5-2 hours to experience.
• Last Post Ceremony at Menin Gate. The Last Post ceremony takes place every evening at 8 pm under the Menin Gate Memorial. The ceremony pays tribute to over 54,000 British and Commonwealth soldiers who died in the Ypres Salient battle and have no known grave. The Last Post call is played, followed by a minute of silence. An excerpt from the poem “For the Fallen” is read before the Réveille bugle call signals the end. The ceremony takes 10 minutes and is popular which is why visitors are recommended to arrive to secure a good viewing spot.
• Ypres Cloth Hall. The Ypres Cloth Hall is one of the largest medieval commercial buildings in Europe. It houses the In Flanders Fields Museum, which is dedicated to World War I. The museum has interactive exhibits with artifacts, photos, recordings and more details on life in the trenches, individual soldier stories, battles around Ypres and reconstruction efforts after the war.
• Visit the Tyne Cot Cemetery. Tyne Cot Cemetery has 12,000 Commonwealth soldier graves and a memorial wall engraved with over 34,000 names. It serves as a solemn reminder of the loss of life during WWI's Battle of Passchendaele. Visitors can pay respects while wandering through rows of graves, each marked “A soldier of the Great War – Known unto God”. The museum provides a moving and comprehensive look at what is known as the “war to end all wars”.
• Saint Martin’s Cathedral. Saint Martin’s Cathedral is a 102-meter-tall Gothic church that formerly served as the seat of the Diocese of Ypres. The church was heavily damaged in WWI and was rebuilt in the 1920s. Visitors can see the tombs inside of prominent figures like Cornelius Jansen, Bishop of Ypres and father of the Jansenism movement and Count Robert III of Flanders known as “The Lion of Flanders.
• Hooge Crater Museum. The Hooge Crater Museum has extensive World War I displays including uniforms, weapons, photos and trench recreations. Visitors can tour the museum, view films, explore preserved craters and trenches and visit the gift shop. It appeals to adults and children interested in history.

1. Visit the In Flanders Fields Museum

The In Flanders Fields Museum is located in the historic Cloth Hall building overlooking the Grote Markt (main market square) in the center of Ypres, Belgium. The museum is referred to as the Ypres Salient Memorial Museum. It was renamed after the famous poem “In Flanders Fields” by John McCrae.

The museum teaches visitors about the human impact and consequences of World War I, especially in the Ypres Salient area where war took place. Visitors receive a “poppy bracelet” that activates multimedia displays and stories of four individuals who lived through the war. The museum features artifacts, films, visuals and soundscapes that provide an immersive and often emotional experience. Visitors may hear bombs exploding in the distance or see gas seeping into trenches. Visitors can climb a belfry with 231 steps for views over the rebuilt town and surrounding battlefield area that shows the utter destruction caused. A visit takes 1.5-2 hours to experience. The museum is open daily, with an admission cost of €6 ($6, £5).

2. Last Post Ceremony at Menin Gate

The Last Post ceremony takes place every evening at 8 pm under the Menin Gate Memorial, located on the eastern side of Ypres. The Gate Memorial is a monument honoring over 54,000 British and Commonwealth soldiers who died in the Ypres Salient battle and have no known grave and their names are inscribed inside. The ceremony has taken place almost every night since 1928, until the German occupation in WWII. The ceremony resumed the evening after Ypres was liberated in 1944.

The Last Post call is played, followed by a minute of silence. An excerpt from the poem “For the Fallen” is read before the Réveille bugle call signals the end. The ceremony takes 10 minutes and is popular which is why visitors are recommended to arrive to secure a good viewing spot. There are hundreds of visitors, with the biggest crowds coming for the special 11 am ceremony on November 11 Armistice Day. It provides a haunting and emotional tribute to those who sacrificed their lives in one of the battle areas along the Western Front. It is a long-standing tradition cherished by locals and visitors alike.

3. Ypres Cloth Hall

The Ypres Cloth Hall, known as Lakenhalle in Dutch is a large cloth hall located at the Grote Markt (Market Square) in central Ypres. It is one of the largest commercial buildings from the Middle Ages and served as the main market and warehouse for Ypres's prosperous medieval cloth industry. The original Cloth Hall was built in the 13th century but was destroyed during World War I. The current building is a reconstruction of the original hall that was completed in 1967.

Ypres Cloth Hall houses the award-winning In Flanders Fields Museum which is dedicated to commemorating the events and educating visitors about World War I. The museum features interactive exhibits with historical artifacts, documents, photographs, audio recordings and more. Some of the main attractions in the museum include exhibits on life in the trenches, stories from individual soldiers, details on the different battles that occurred around Ypres and information about the reconstruction efforts in Ypres after the war ended.

Visitors to the museum can take an audio tour, view short films and interact with touchscreen displays to learn about World War I history. The museum provides a moving and comprehensive look at what is known as the “war to end all wars”.

4. Visit Tyne Cot Cemetery

Tyne Cot Cemetery is the largest Commonwealth military cemetery in the world, located outside the Belgian village of Passchendaele. The cemetery has 12,000 graves of Commonwealth soldiers and a memorial wall engraved with over 34,000 names. Tyne Cot serves as a reminder of the loss of life during WWI's Battle of Passchendaele.

Visitors to the site can pay their respects while wandering through row after row of mostly unnamed graves, each marked with the inscription “A soldier of the Great War – Known unto God”. The cemetery grounds contain pillboxes and other remnants of German defenses from 1917. The cemetery has a visitor's center where wartime photographs and artifacts are displayed.

Tyne Cot Cemetery is open daily and admission is free. This cemetery provides visitors with a solemn place to reflect on the events of WWI and the consequences of war. This attraction is best suited for mature visitors. Visitors of all ages are welcome to pay their respects at Tyne Cot Cemetery.

5. Saint Martin’s Cathedral, Ypres

Saint Martin’s Cathedral, known as Sint-Maartenskathedraal, is a Gothic-style church and former cathedral located in the city center of Ypres, Belgium at Vandenpeereboomplein. It served as the cathedral and seat of the Diocese of Ypres from 1561 until 1801, when Ypres was incorporated into the Diocese of Ghent after the Concordat between Napoleon and Pope Pius VII. The church is 102 meters (335 feet) tall and is among the tallest buildings in Belgium.

Saint Martin's Cathedral has gone through extensive damage and rebuilding over its history. The church was originally constructed between 1230 and 1370, was heavily damaged in World War I and was rebuilt from 1922 to 1930 based on the original Gothic architectural plans. Visitors can see the tombs inside of prominent figures like Cornelius Jansen, Bishop of Ypres and father of the Jansenism movement and Count Robert III of Flanders known as “The Lion of Flanders”.

Visitors can reach Saint Martin’s Cathedral by public transportation including bus or train to the Ypres town center. It is open to the public daily except during masses on Saturday evenings and Sunday mornings and evenings. There is no admission fee. It appeals to visitors of all ages interested in history, architecture, art and religion.

6. Hooge Crater Museum

The Hooge Crater Museum is a privately owned World War I museum located about 4 kilometers (2.4 miles) east of Ypres, Belgium on the Menin Road. The museum opened in 1994 in a restored 1920s chapel and features extensive displays relating to World War I in the area.

Hooge Crater Museum has a vast collection of original artifacts from World War I, including uniforms, weapons, equipment, photographs, documents and more. The museum has recreated trench warfare scenes with life-size displays and mannequins to give visitors an idea of what life was like for soldiers. The museum has a large piece of twisted railway track outside the museum entrance that was damaged during the war.

Visitors can tour through the museum exhibits at their own pace, watch short films about World War I and explore the nearby preserved outdoor crater sites and trenches. There is a small gift shop and thematic café onsite that serves food and refreshments. There are also clean toilet facilities available for visitors. The museum can be reached by local bus lines or visitors can drive, cycle or go on foot. It is perfect for adults and older children interested in history. Admission is €8.50 ($9.31, £7.71) for adults, with discounted rates for students and children under 18.

7. St. George’s Memorial Church

St. George's Memorial Church is an Anglican church located at Elverdingsestraat 1 in central Ypres, Belgium. It was built as a memorial to over 500,000 British and Commonwealth soldiers who died fighting in the Ypres Salient battles during World War I and opened in 1929. The interior of the church serves as a tribute to the fallen soldiers with its plaques, flags, stained glass windows and furniture donated by various military regiments, schools and families.

St. George's offers visitors a solemn and reflective environment to honor those who sacrificed their lives in WWI. Visitors can view the memorials, attend an ecumenical service, consult with the chaplain about the history of the war and cemeteries in the area or participate in annual Armistice Day events. The church is open daily, free of charge from 9:30 am until dusk. St. George Memorial Church welcomes visitors of all faiths and backgrounds who wish to pay their respects to the Commonwealth soldiers.

8. Bedford House Cemetery

Bedford House Cemetery is a Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) burial ground located about 2.5 kilometers (1.5 miles) south of central Ypres. It was established on the grounds of Château Rosendal, a country house that the British Army called “Bedford House” during World War I.

The cemetery contains over 5,100 World War I and II Commonwealth burials, including 3,000 unidentified soldiers. It comprises several enclosures divided by sections of the château's former moats. Visitors can walk along the rows of headstones, read the inscriptions written and take in the overall atmosphere of remembrance and solemnity. The cemetery offers an opportunity to pay respects to the Commonwealth soldiers who were killed in the fight that took place in the Ypres Salient. Visitors of all ages and backgrounds can explore the burial grounds and reflect on the sacrifices made by so many young soldiers over a century ago. There is no admission fee to access the cemetery.

9. Ramparts Cemetery (Lille Gate)

Ramparts Cemetery (Lille Gate) is a small World War I cemetery located within the old ramparts of central Ypres, 1 kilometer (0.6 miles) South of the Grote Markt (Market Square) near the historic Lille Gate. It was first established by French troops in November 1914 and later used by Commonwealth forces until 1918. The cemetery contains 198 Commonwealth burials. The cemetery is located on the medieval stone walls overlooking the moat below.

Visitors can walk along the rows of headstones engraved with names and dates, honoring those who lost their lives during the war. Ramparts Cemetery offers an opportunity to reflect on the history that surrounds it while paying respects to the World War I soldiers. Its small size also lends the cemetery an intimate atmosphere compared to Ypres' larger cemeteries. Ramparts Cemetery is publicly accessible daily to visitors of all backgrounds.

10. Hill 60 & Caterpillar

Hill 60 and the nearby Caterpillar are historic battlefield sites from World War I, located at the village of Zillebeke, 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) south of Ypres. Hill 60 is an artificial mound created from excavated soil and rubble during the construction of the railway line between Ypres and Comines in the 1850s. It was named Hill 60 by British forces on their trench maps since it stood 60 meters above sea level, giving it strategic importance. The Caterpillar is another mound formed from the railway work.

Both sites were captured by German forces in late 1914 during the First Battle of Ypres. Allied forces made several attempts to retake Hill 60, finally succeeding in 1917 after detonating multiple underground mines. The area is a battlefield that left the landscape filled with craters and trenches. Hill 60 was preserved by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission in its wartime state, with only some trees and grass growing over the decades. Craters, ruins of bunkers and traces of trenches can still be seen. Visitors can walk the grounds, view memorials and visit a preserved German bunker. The large Caterpillar crater is accessible nearby.

11. Bellewaerde

Bellewaerde is a theme park and zoo located at Meenseweg 497 in Ypres. The park originally opened in 1954 as a zoo and safari park called Toeristisch Centrum Bellewaerde (Tourist Centre Bellewaerde). The park has operated under several names over the years including Safari Bellewaerde and Bellewaerde Park before becoming Bellewaerde. The park occupies over 54 hectares near the grounds of a historic castle.

Visitors can enjoy rides and attractions which include world-class rollercoasters like Huracan, Boomerang and Dawson Duel, a variety of water rides including rapids and flume rides, a swinging pirate ship, vintage carousels and a madhouse haunted attraction. Safaris and zoo enclosures allow visitors to view exotic animals including elephants, giraffes, lions and tigers. The park features live entertainment and shows run during peak seasons. Bellewaered caters to 850,000 to 900,000 guests annually, making it the top theme park destination in Flanders. The park is open seasonally from April to October. Ticket prices start at €36 ($39, £31) for adults and €32 ($35, £27) for children.

12. Mergelynck Museum

The Merghelynck Museum is a cultural and historical museum located at Merghelynckstraat 2 in Ypres, Belgium. The museum is housed in a restored Baroque mansion built in 1774. The museum showcases the lifestyle of the nobility in the 18th century through its collection of artwork, porcelain, silverware and period furniture. Many artifacts on display were remnants from the original structure before it was destroyed in World War I and later reconstructed.

Visitors can explore the decorated rooms that feature French-style furnishings and admire the Chinese and Japanese porcelain collections. The museum also has an archaeological collection with over 800 medieval objects related to the cloth industry that made Ieper prosperous in the Middle Ages. It can only be visited by guided tour, which should be booked at least 2 weeks in advance. The museum is best suited for adults interested in history, art, architecture and antiques. Guided tours cost €70 ($76, £60) plus a €3.50 ($3.38, £3.03) entrance fee per person.

13. Kazematten Brewery

Kazematten Brewery is located at Houten Paard 1, 8900 Ypres, Belgium inside the 17th-century ramparts surrounding Ieper's historic center. The name is from the casemates (“Kazematten” in Dutch) where the brewery is housed. British soldiers used these underground rooms to produce the satirical “Wipers Times” trench newspaper, which inspired the name of Kazematten's signature blonde ale during World War I.

Visitors can tour and learn how the casemates have been used, from storing army provisions to serving as shelter and dormitories for troops defending Ieper during various sieges. Visitors can witness the compact brewhouse in action, see original brick vaults and stone walls and sample beers like the flagship Wipers Times, brewed with local ingredients including herbs grown along the ramparts. The brewery is open to the public every Saturday afternoon and tours need to be booked in advance for groups. It is best suited for beer lovers interested in history. Tours including tastings cost €12 ($13, £10)per person.

14. Provincial Domain Palingbeek

Provincial Domain Palingbeek is a 250-hectare nature park located in the Belgian city of Ypres, 6 kilometers (6.3 miles) to the Southeast. The park features woods, meadows, ponds and marshland along the route of the unfinished Ypres-Comines canal. Provincial Domain Palingbeek was a part of the frontline during the war and contains historical remnants such as bomb craters and Commonwealth cemeteries.

Visitors to Provincial Domain Palingbeek can walk or bike the 12.5 kilometers (7.7 miles) trail from the reception center. The route is marked with green Palingbeek hexagonal signs and passes remnants from World War I, including The Bluff, Hedge Row Trench Cemetery and Hill 60. Visitors can learn about the park's history in the visitor center, observe the stars at the observatory, play in the playground, relax in the cafeteria or camp overnight. The park is free to enter and is open daily. The park is ideal for all visitors, including families, couples, individuals and groups.

15. Essex Farm Cemetery

Essex Farm Cemetery is a World War I cemetery located in Boezinge, Belgium, 2.5 kilometers (1.5 miles) North of Ypres along the Diksmuidseweg road. The cemetery was established in 1915 next to a British Army medical station and used as a burial ground until 1917. The cemetery contains the graves of over 1,200 Commonwealth soldiers killed in the Ypres Salient battles, including 103 unidentified soldiers.

Essex Farm Cemetery is associated with Canadian Army doctor John McCrae, who wrote the famous wartime poem “In Flanders Fields” in May 1915 after presiding over the funeral of his friend. Visitors can stroll through the rows of headstones, read the names of soldiers, reflect on the history and view the remaining bunkers. The cemetery grounds are accessible year-round. Essex Farm Cemetery appeals to history-minded adults and older children can appreciate its significance if adequately prepared for the heavy subject matter around war and loss that the location represents. The cemetery does not charge any entrance fees.

Where is Ypres?

Ypres is a city located in western Belgium. It was the scene of several important battles during World War I, located on the Western Front. The British Expeditionary Force clashed with the German Army in the First Battle of Ypres in October and November 1914. There were two more significant battles in Ypres during the war – the Second Battle of Ypres in 1915, which saw the first use of poison gas on the Western Front and the Third Battle of Ypres in 1917, also known as the Battle of Passchendaele, which resulted in enormous casualties for both sides due to the muddy terrain. Throughout the war, Ypres occupied an important strategic position. It served as a bastion for the Allies to try and prevent the Germans from advancing west towards the French ports on the English Channel. Today, Ypres remains an essential symbol of the horrors of trench warfare during World War I.

What is the history of Ypres?

Ypres is a city in western Belgium that has a long history but is most famous for its role in World War I. Located near the border with France, Ypres dates back to the 11th century and grew as a centre of the cloth trade. It was fortified with massive walls and gates, remnants still standing today. In the 16th and 17th centuries, under Spanish rule, Ypres continued to prosper but declined in the 18th century under the Austrians. Ypres occupied a strategic location on the Western Front during World War I. It was the site of intense fighting as both sides tried to capture the high ground around the city. The British Expeditionary Force successfully repelled German attacks on Ypres in 1914 during the First Battle of Ypres. In 1915, the Second Battle of Ypres saw the first use of poison gas as a weapon on the Western Front. The Third Battle of Ypres 1917, also known as Passchendaele, infamously saw hundreds of thousands of casualties in the mud-soaked terrain. After the war, Ypres was reconstructed to its glory and today, it is remembered for its courage and sacrifice as a symbol of the horrors of the Great War. The Menin Gate memorial in Ypres contains thousands of names of British and Commonwealth soldiers killed in Belgium with no known graves.

What language is spoken in Ypres?

The main language spoken in Ypres itself is Dutch. Ypres is located in the Dutch-speaking region of Flanders in Belgium. Specifically, most people in Ypres speak a dialect of Dutch called West Flemish. This is common throughout the West Flanders province that Ypres is located in. West Flemish's phonology and vocabulary differ somewhat from the standard Dutch spoken as an official language in Belgium. Many people in Ypres also speak French, the other official language of Belgium and English, used for international communication. But when locals communicate with each other in Ypres and surrounding towns, they generally use West Flemish rather than French. The historic centre of Ypres is called the Lakenhalle and all the information signs, menus and announcements there are in Dutch. So, for visitors who only speak English and French, West Flemish-speaking Ypres can present a bit of a language barrier compared to some other major cities in Belgium that are more French-speaking.

What timezone is Ypres on?

Ypres is in the Central European Time zone, UTC+1. This means it is 1 hour ahead of Coordinated Universal Time. As Ypres is located in western Belgium, it uses Central European Time like the rest of the country. This timezone spans from Portugal in the west to Poland in the east and is the most widely observed timezone in the European Union. Countries like France, Germany, Italy and Spain are also on Central European Time. The UK, meanwhile, is 1 hour behind Ypres in the Western European Time zone at UTC+0. Central European time is used in Belgium all year round – there is no daylight saving time change, unlike in the UK. So, during the winter, Ypres remains 1 hour ahead of places like London. During the summer, when the UK has moved its clocks forward 1 hour, Ypres is 2 hours ahead until the end of British Summer Time. In summary, the consistent year-round timezone used in Ypres and elsewhere in Belgium is Central European Time, which usually is 1 hour ahead of the UK.

How many people live in Ypres?

Ypres is a medium-sized city in Belgium with 36,005 people. Most people, 26,219, are adults between 0 and 59 years. There are 18,130 females and 17,875 males. Ypres also has a significant elderly population, with 9,748 residents aged 60 years or older. Many of these older residents live in retirement homes and assisted living facilities around the city. The town has several schools at the primary and secondary levels, which cater to local families. Overall, Ypres has a typical demographic spread for a historic city of its size in Belgium. The population mixes older lifelong residents, younger professionals and families attracted to living in a peaceful provincial town with a rich history. Tourism connected to World War I sites also employs many locals in Ypres, supporting the economy.

What are the most interesting facts of Ypres?

Listed below are the most interesting facts of Ypres.

• Ypres Currency. In Ypres, as is the case throughout Belgium, the official currency utilised is the Euro (€), denoted as EUR. This facet allows for ease of financial transactions, especially for tourists coming from the Eurozone, as they don't need to worry about currency exchange. Moreover, having a uniform currency promotes economic stability and facilitates trade with other European nations, thereby contributing to the broader economy.
• Timezone of Ypres. The timezone that Ypres adheres to is Central European Time (CET) during the standard period and Central European Summer Time (CEST) during the daylight saving time, which is typically from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October. This time setting is synchronised with many other European countries, making it convenient for international relations and travel planning. Recognising the timezone is pivotal for travellers and is integral to the foundation.
• The Primary Language in Ypres. The primary language spoken in Ypres is Dutch, specifically the West Flemish variant of the Dutch language. While French and German are also official languages in Belgium, the populace of Ypres predominantly communicate in Dutch. This linguistic preference is a testament to the region's historical and cultural affiliations and understanding this can significantly enhance one's experience while visiting, as it is tied to the larger linguistic.
• Power Plugs Used. The power plugs and sockets used in Ypres are of type E. The standard voltage is 230 V and the expected frequency is 50 Hz. This information is vital for tourists to ensure the compatibility of their electronic devices during their stay. Equipping oneself with knowledge about the type of power plugs used forms a necessary and practical part of the facts of Belgium, facilitating a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.

What is Ypres famous for?

Ypres is most famous for its pivotal role in World War I as the site of numerous significant battles on the Western Front. Although Ypres was first established in the 11th century and has a long history as a prosperous cloth trading centre, its association with World War I dominates the modern memory of the city. Between 1914 and 1918, the British Expeditionary Force, French army and German army were locked in bitter fighting for control of Ypres and the strategically important high ground surrounding the city. There were three major battles at Ypres during the war, which saw massive casualties from trench warfare and shelling. The Second Battle of Ypres in 1915 also infamously saw the first use of chemical weapons on the Western Front. Today, Ypres is known internationally as a memorial site for the sacrifice and horrors of the Great War. Hundreds of thousands of war dead are buried in cemeteries and memorials around Ypres, which draws many visitors interested in World War I history. While Ypres was painstakingly rebuilt after the war and still has a beautiful town centre, its identity will forever be linked to the bloody fighting that engulfed the area during World War I. For this reason, Ypres is regarded as one of the most significant and symbolic World War I battle sites.

What to do in Ypres for a day?

Listed below are what to do things in Ypres for a day:

• Visit The Menin Gate. Starting one's journey early in the morning, a visitor can embrace the solemnity that the Menin Gate brings forth. This prominent war memorial, engraved with the names of thousands of soldiers who perished in the First World War, serves as a poignant reminder of the region's turbulent past. In just a day, an individual can take time to participate in the daily Last Post ceremony held at 8 p.m. This tradition has endured for nearly a century, echoing the respect and memory of the brave souls who fought during the conflict.
• Explore the In Flanders Fields Museum. As one continues their 24-hour sojourn in Ypres, stopping at the In Flanders Fields Museum around mid-morning would be a vital addition to the itinerary. Located in the historic Cloth Hall, the museum presents an interactive and engaging exhibition that depicts the harsh realities of the First World War. Here, individuals can immerse themselves in personal stories, artefacts and multimedia displays that narrate the devastating impacts and the human stories intertwined with the war.
• Stroll around The Grote Markt. Venturing towards the city's vibrant heart, the Grote Markt would be an excellent way to spend the early afternoon hours. The central square is surrounded by beautiful buildings and various cafes where one can enjoy a delightful Belgian lunch. Being a hub of activity, it offers a pleasant contrast to the morning's historical exploration, allowing individuals to soak in the vibrant atmosphere and perhaps indulge in some shopping or simply enjoy a relaxed stroll.
• Take a Walk along the Vauban Ramparts. In the late afternoon, one might find tranquillity by taking a leisurely walk along the Vauban Ramparts. These historical fortifications offer a glimpse into the strategic importance of Ypres in the past. Moreover, the lush green surroundings provide a serene backdrop for a peaceful walk, where one can reflect on the rich tapestry of experiences they've encountered throughout the day in Ypres.
• End the day at the Kazematten Brewery. As the evening approaches, rounding off the 24 hours in Ypres with a visit to the Kazematten Brewery can offer a delightful ending. Located within the historic ramparts, the brewery offers a unique blend of history and modern craft beer culture. Here, one can sample some of the finest Belgian beers, perhaps accompanied by a hearty dinner, bringing a fulfilling closure to a day well spent exploring the multifaceted city of Ypres.

What is the ideal visit duration for a Ypres visit?

The ideal visit duration for a trip to Ypres is between 2 and 3 days. Given Ypres's rich historical and cultural fabric, dedicating just one day would undoubtedly offer a glimpse into the city's heritage and main attractions; however, it might take time. Allocating a visit duration of 2 to 3 days would permit a more leisurely exploration of the city's significant landmarks and attractions, allowing for a deeper understanding and appreciation of the place. During a multi-day stay, visitors can delve deeply into the historical significance of areas such as the Menin Gate, the In Flanders Fields Museum and various World War I battlefields that bear silent testimony to the brutal conflicts that once ravaged this region. Moreover, a stay of this length allows for exploring Ypres's natural beauty and architectural splendour, including strolls along the Vauban Ramparts and indulging in the culinary delights that the local restaurants serve. Furthermore, extending the visit duration beyond one day allows visitors to immerse themselves in the local culture, possibly attending some of the vibrant events often held in the Grote Markt, the city's central square. This additional time offers the possibility to truly absorb this historic city's serene yet vibrant atmosphere, mingling with locals and perhaps enjoying a leisurely cup of coffee in one of the many quaint cafes dotting the area. Therefore, when pondering on “how long to spend in Ypres”, it is advisable to plan a visit that spans a couple of days, thereby allowing for a balanced blend of historical exploration and relaxed enjoyment of the city's present-day offerings, making the trip both enlightening and rejuvenating.

What Belgian food should someone eat in Ypres?

Ypres offers visitors an excellent opportunity to sample delicious local cuisine from the West Flanders region of Belgium. As a historic city, some traditional Belgian dishes to try in Ypres are stewed meatballs in Gueuze beer called Gueuzeballetjes, rabbit cooked in Westvleteren beer known as Konijn in Westvleteren and Flemish carbonade beef stew made with beer and mustard. The city is also famous for its cheese, in particular, a semi-soft cheese called Passendale after the World War I battle site nearby. Beer fans should sample the excellent Abbey and Trappist beers produced at monasteries around Ypres, including the distinctive Westvleteren blonde and dark beers, which are difficult to find outside Belgium. Those with a sweet tooth can enjoy Belgian waffles, pancakes and French fries topped with mayonnaise or unique sauces. As Ypres is located in Flanders near the border with France, the cuisine shows both French and Dutch influences. Overall, visitors will find a tasty blend of local specialities and high-quality cuisine in Ypres that reflects the rich cultural heritage of food in Belgium .

What are the best restaurants to eat in Ypres?

There are a 5  best restaurants to eat in Ypres. Firstly, with “De Heerlyckheid”, this establishment is a haven for food enthusiasts seeking to enjoy a luxurious dinner with an exquisite assortment of delightful and expertly crafted dishes. Their menu boasts a fine selection, warranting reservations in advance to secure a seat at this sought-after location. Secondly, “Ypresburger”, caters to individuals with a penchant for gourmet burgers. Offering both lunch and dinner options, it presents an exciting twist to the classic burger experience, making it a favourite spot for locals and tourists alike. Thirdly, “A L'Envers” is another establishment that beckons visitors with its enticing menu options. This place is perfect for a leisurely lunch where one can savour a range of delectable dishes crafted with a touch of culinary innovation, promising a satisfying and memorable meal. Fourthly, the “Restaurant Découverte” is where one can experience culinary finesse at its best. Ideal for dinner, this restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience with a diverse and intriguing menu, inviting diners to explore a world of flavours that are sure to tantalise the taste buds. Lastly, the “Hostellerie Saint Nicolas” is a beacon of culinary excellence in Ypres. Known for its impeccable service and fine dining options, it is a place where one can enjoy a lavish lunch or dinner, complete with a tranquil ambience that complements the exquisite food offerings.

Listed below are the best restaurants to eat in Ypres.

• De Heerlyckheid. Located in a charming 4-star hotel, this relaxed yet elegant restaurant serves refined traditional Flemish cuisine, like beef stew, rabbit in beer sauce, and shrimp croquettes. Extensive wine list and peaceful courtyard dining available.
• Ypresburger. This casual spot just outside central Ypres specialises in homemade burgers at affordable prices. Also offers Belgian fare like fries, meatballs and mussels. No-frills setting but generous portions and friendly service.
• A L'Envers. Intimate gourmet restaurant in central Ypres serving creative French-Belgian tasting menus with local ingredients. Dishes may include shrimp with tomato foam or Flemish beef cheek in beer. Book well ahead to secure one of 16 seats.
• Restaurant Découverte. Elegant converted farmhouse near Ypres blending French cuisine with Belgian hospitality. Seasonal menu stars regional fare like pan-seared duck foie gras, herb-crusted lamb and white asparagus. Superb but pricey.
• Hostellerie Saint Nicolas. Michelin-starred French-Belgian cuisine served in a beautifully restored 18th-century farmstead turned small luxury hotel. Reservations essential to savour the refined regional tasting menus and wine pairings.

1. De Heerlyckheid

De Heerlyckheid is an elegant yet informal restaurant located right inside the charming 4-star De Heerlyckheid Hotel in central Ypres. Housed in an 18th-century former convent, the restaurant's atmosphere perfectly matches the historic setting. The menu features refined updates of traditional regional cuisine using fresh local ingredients. Dishes may include Flemish beef stew, rabbit in Westvleteren beer sauce or North Sea shrimp croquettes. An extensive wine list offers fine Belgian and French vintages. Weather permitting, request a table on the peaceful courtyard terrace tucked away from the street. Attentive service and reasonable prices for the high quality complete the experience. De Heerlyckheid makes a sophisticated but relaxed choice for a special night out while visiting Ypres. The central location also makes stopping in for lunch or afternoon coffee easy. Reservations are recommended as it's popular with hotel guests and local diners. For an elegant meal showcasing the best of Flemish cooking in a historical setting, De Heerlyckheid is undoubtedly one of Ypres' top dining destinations.

2. Ypresburger

The Ypresburger is a casual restaurant located just outside Ypres' historic centre that specialises in – as the name suggests – burgers. Ypresburger modest local spot offers diners a selection of juicy homemade beef, chicken and vegetarian burgers at affordable prices. The menu also includes typical Belgian fare like fries, meatballs, mussels and a range of Belgian beers. The simple, no-frills setting features wooden tables and a bar area for single diners. While not fancy, portions are generous and service is fast and friendly. The Ypresburger makes an easygoing option for lunch or dinner after a day of sightseeing in Ypres. It's popular with tourists staying at the nearby Ypresburger budget hotel. Reservations are optional but can be a good idea on weekends when it gets busy. While more upscale restaurants are abundant in central Ypres, the Ypresburger is a reliable choice for casual local fare and an authentic Belgian burger experience. The Ypresburger provides good value for money without breaking the budget.

3. A L'Envers

A L'Envers is an intimate gourmet restaurant in the heart of Ypres' historic city centre. Housed in a beautifully restored 16th-century building, it blends historic charm with a contemporary fine dining experience. A L'Envers serves a seasonal tasting menu that skillfully incorporates local ingredients into creative French-inspired cuisine. Dishes may include delights like West Flanders shrimp with tomato foam, Flemish beef cheek slow-cooked in beer and Belgian chocolate mousse with hazelnut crumble. The dining room only seats 16 people, so book reservations well in advance. Knowledgeable waitstaff provides excellent personalised service to guide you through the culinary experience. While not cheap, a meal at A L'Envers offers exceptional quality and memorable flavours you won't find elsewhere in Ypres. With its central location near sights like the Cloth Hall and St. Martin's Cathedral, visiting A L'Envers for a refined dinner after a day exploring Ypres' Gothic architecture and World War I sites is easy. The intimate ambience also makes it a popular choice for a romantic meal.

4. Restaurant Découverte

Restaurant Découverte is an elegant French-Belgian restaurant just outside Ypres' town centre—the rustic-chic interior features exposed beams, brick walls and a cosy fireplace in a converted farmhouse. The menu changes seasonally to highlight the best local ingredients from West Flanders. Dishes may include indulgences like pan-seared duck foie gras, herb-crusted rack of lamb or white asparagus with hollandaise sauce. Extensive wine pairings are available. Reservations are essential as Restaurant Découverte only seats around 35 diners to provide personalised service. Restaurant Découverte is a place to take your time enjoying a special romantic meal or event. While not cheap, the culinary creativity and flawless execution make it worthwhile for foodies. The knowledgeable waitstaff is happy to explain all the details of each dish and wine. With a 30-minute walk or short drive from central Ypres, Restaurant Découverte makes a first-rate splurge for those seeking fine dining in an intimate setting surrounded by nature. Restaurant Découverte is the perfect blend of French cuisine, Belgian hospitality and Flemish charm.

5. Hostellerie Saint Nicolas

Hostellerie Saint Nicolas is an upscale restaurant with rooms located just outside central Ypres in the village of Zillebeke. Housed in a beautifully restored 18th-century farmstead, the rustic-chic dining room features vintage tiles, antique furniture and a cosy fireplace. Hostellerie Saint Nicolas specialises in refined French-Belgian cuisine using premium regional ingredients. The seasonal menu may include pan-seared scallops, confit duck leg or Belgian chocolate soufflé. Extensive wine pairings are available. The small dining room seats just 50 people, so reservations are essential. Dinners are leisurely, lasting 2-3 hours to fully savour each course. For immersive indulgence, staying in one of the 14 elegant rooms allows you to retreat to the peaceful countryside after dining. While relatively expensive, Hostellerie Saint Nicolas offers a Michelin-starred culinary experience in an idyllic setting. The 10-minute drive from Ypres makes it an ideal particular occasion restaurant after a day of sightseeing. Hostellerie Saint Nicolas is a true destination for pleasing dining devotees visiting Flanders.

What are the best areas to stay in Ypres?

Listed below are the best neighbourhoods to stay in Ypres.

• City Centre. The city centre is one of the prime neighbourhoods to consider while contemplating where to stay in Ypres. The City Centre area grants visitors immediate access to various attractions and historical sites, making it a convenient location for those keen on exploring the city's heart. Furthermore, its vibrant atmosphere offers a genuine taste of the local culture and traditions.
• Stationsbuurt. Stationsbuurt is another desirable neighbourhood to mark on one's list. This well-connected area offers easy access to the city's public transport hubs. Its proximity to the railway station makes it a strategic location for those planning to explore other parts of Belgium while enjoying the peaceful environment that this neighbourhood offers.
• Sint-Jan. The Sint-Jan neighbourhood is known for its tranquil environment, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a quiet retreat not far from the bustling city centre. This area offers a range of accommodation options, ranging from luxury hotels to cosy bed and breakfast establishments, providing a range of choices to suit various preferences and budgets.
• Rijselstraat. The Rijselstraat area offers a blend of residential and commercial spaces, providing a balanced atmosphere for visitors. This neighbourhood is dotted with various eateries and shops, providing an excellent opportunity for those keen on indulging in local culinary delights and shopping experiences. Its relative proximity to the city centre also means that guests staying in this area can easily venture to the heart of Ypres for a more comprehensive exploration of what the city offers.

What are the best hotels to stay in Ypres?

Listed below are the best hotels to stay in Ypres.

• Main Street Hotel. Main Street Hotel stands as a beacon of luxury in the heart of Ypres, offering its guests an impeccable blend of modern amenities and traditional charm. Each facet of this establishment speaks volumes about its commitment to providing a comfortable and memorable stay. A visit to Main Street Hotel guarantees an indulgence in luxury, complemented by an exquisite dining experience that promises to cater to the culinary desires of its guests.
• Hotel Ambrosia. The Hotel Ambrosia is a place where warmth and hospitality take centre stage. This establishment, known for its inviting atmosphere, ensures every guest finds a home away from home. The rooms at Hotel Ambrosia are a testament to its dedication to providing a tranquil retreat, fostering a harmonious balance between comfort and luxury, thereby ensuring an enriching stay that resonates well with travellers from all walks of life.
• Hotel Ariane. The Hotel Ariane is distinguished in Ypres' vibrant hospitality sector. This hotel epitomises elegance and refinement, promising a vacation that is nothing short of luxurious. A stay at Hotel Ariane means stepping into a world of elegance and comfort, where every detail is curated to offer an experience that is both exclusive and refined, making it a favoured choice for those seeking to experience one of the best hotels in Ypres.

What is the transportation like in Ypres?

Transportation in Ypres is entirely developed and facilitates easy movement within and outside the city. The city has a well-organised network of local buses that connects various parts of Ypres, making it quite convenient for residents and visitors to travel around. The roads in and around Ypres are well maintained, making car journeys a smooth experience. Additionally, cycling is a popular mode of transport in the city, with many cycle paths available for enthusiasts. For those contemplating long-distance travel to and from the town, mentioning the train services between “Brussels and Ypres” is noteworthy. The trains provide a comfortable and efficient means of travelling the approximately 120 km (74.6 miles) distance between the two cities, usually with a transfer at a significant junction, offering travellers a chance to witness the beautiful landscapes of Belgium. Furthermore, when considering how to get to Ypres from London,one has several options. The most common is taking a train from London to Brussels and then another from Brussels to Ypres. This journey offers a seamless transportation experience, allowing travellers to transition smoothly between the UK and Belgium whilst enjoying the scenic vistas that grace the route. The connection from “Bruges to Ypres” is also relatively straightforward, with regular train services between the two cities. The journey, covering a distance of approximately 53 km (32.93 miles), is relatively quick and offers a convenient way to travel between the two popular Belgian destinations.

How to get from Ypres to Brussels?

Listed below are steps on how to get from Ypres to Brussels:

• Firstly, one should start by carefully planning their journey from Ypres to Brussels, taking into consideration the time and day of travel. Gathering all necessary belongings, including personal identification and travel documents, is essential.
• Secondly, they should ensure that they have a reliable GPS or a map to assist them in navigating the route with ease. It might be helpful to familiarise oneself with the way beforehand to avoid delays.
• Thirdly, one must initiate their journey by heading to the city centre of Ypres. This location serves as a prime point to access various modes of transportation that lead to Brussels.
• Fourthly, if they opt to travel by train, they must proceed to the Ieper train station. It is recommended to appropriately check the train schedules to time their arrival at the station.
• Fifthly, they must purchase tickets to Brussels upon reaching the train station. Buying tickets from the ticket counter or through digital platforms is possible to avoid queues.
• Sixthly, they should board the train and settle in for the journey. It is important to note that the train journey might require a transfer at a significant junction, most likely at Gent-Sint-Pieters station, where they will find trains connecting to Brussels.
• Alternatively, if one chooses to drive to Brussels, the seventh step involves securing a car, either their own or a rental. Ensuring the vehicle is in good condition and fuelled up is essential before starting the journey.
• Eighth, they initiate the car journey, adhering to the directions provided by the GPS or map. Generally, the route involves getting onto the A19 motorway, which connects Ypres directly to Brussels.
• Ninth, they should drive safely, respecting the traffic rules and regulations in Belgium. They can enjoy the scenic Belgian landscape along the route, taking periodic breaks to stay refreshed.
• Lastly, upon reaching the destination, they need to find a safe and legal parking space if they travel by car. Those who travelled by train should disembark and begin their exploration of Brussels , possibly using local transport to get around the city.

Are Christmas markets crowded in Ypres?

Yes, the Christmas markets in Ypres are indeed crowded. Many individuals flock to the region to partake in the festive cheer in the Christmas season. The markets in Ypres during this season are characterised by a lively and bustling atmosphere. Locals and tourists, throng the streets to enjoy the festive offerings available during this period. Many stalls offering various products and delicacies also attract people from multiple places. The vibrant atmosphere is further amplified by the variety of entertainment options available, which generally draws a considerable crowd. Ypres Christmas markets are indeed a magnet for groups, with many individuals seeking to immerse themselves in the festive spirit that pervades the streets of Ypres during this time of the year. This considerable influx of people contributes to a crowded but festive environment, making the Ypres Christmas markets a bustling hub of activity and joy.

What are the most visited Christmas markets in Belgium?

Listed below are the most visited Christmas markets in Belgium:

• Brussels Winter Wonders. Brussels Winter Wonders is one of Belgium's largest and most visited Christmas markets in the heart of Brussels. It features over 200 chalets, a grand ice rink and a mesmerising sound and light show at the Grand Place.
• Bruges Christmas Market. Bruges Christmas Market is set in Bruges. This market offers a fairy-tale setting with its cobbled streets and historic buildings. It's particularly famous for its ice sculpture festival and the variety of handmade crafts available.
• Ghent Christmas Market. Ghent Christmas Market is located in the historic city of Ghent; this market is known for its diverse range of stalls and activities. From traditional Belgian waffles to artisanal crafts, it offers something for everyone.
• Antwerp Christmas Market. Antwerp Christmas Market spreads across several squares in the city. The Antwerp Christmas market is a must-visit for its international food stalls, unique gifts and a special ‘Winterbar' serving seasonal drinks.
• Leuven Christmas Market. Leuven Christmas Market is located in the university city of Leuven. This market is popular among both locals and tourists. It's smaller than other markets but offers a cosy atmosphere focusing on local products and crafts.
• Liège Christmas Village. Liège Christmas Village is among the oldest Christmas market in Belgium. The Liège Christmas Village offers a unique experience with its Walloon traditions. It features a wide range of food stalls, including the famous Liège waffles, making it one of the most popular Christmas markets in Belgium .

Is there music in Christmas markets in Belgium?

Yes, there’s music in Christmas markets in Belgium. Christmas carols and live music are integral to the holiday ambience at Belgium's festive markets. In the lead-up to Christmas, choral groups and musicians frequently give free public performances on makeshift stages and in market square foyers to entertain crowds and amplify the Yuletide spirit. Brass bands, choirs and a cappella groups are popular. Specific needs even have dance troupes and costumed characters join in. In Brussels, classic melodies and tunes like “Jingle Bells” in English, French and Flemish ring through the air at Grand Place. Historic churches like the Cathedral of Our Lady host concerts to coincide with nearby markets in Antwerp. The jolly sounds of the season give Belgium's Christmas markets an even more magical mood. Checking for performance schedules can help visitors coordinate their market-going with these merry auditory experiences.

What are the best music festivals in Belgium?

Listed below are the best music festivals in Belgium:

• Tomorrowland. Tomorrowland is one of the biggest electronic and dance music festivals globally, spanning two weekends every July in Boom, Belgium, south of Antwerp. It features world-class DJs, extravagant set designs and lively crowds numbering over 400,000 in total.
• Rock Werchter. Rock Werchter is Belgium's most prominent rock festival that takes place at the Festivalpark in Werchter. It lasts four days in early July and has featured huge headliners like The Rolling Stones, Pearl Jam and Bruno Mars on its outdoor stages since 1975.
• Pukkelpop. Pukkelpop is an annual 3-day outdoor alternative music festival held in Hasselt in eastern Belgium each August showcasing major indie, electronic and hip hop acts across eight different stages.
• Dour Festival. The eclectic Dour Festival hosts over 200 artists across diverse genres like heavy metal, techno, hip hop and more for a 5-day extravaganza every July in Dour, Belgium. It attracts music fans from all over Europe making it one of the best Belgium music festivals.
• Graspop Metal Meeting. Graspop Metal Meeting is Belgium's largest heavy metal festival, annually in Dessel each June. It caters to metal, rock and punk fans, with major acts performing on five stages over four days.

What is the weather like in Ypres?

Ypres has a temperate oceanic climate that brings calm, wet winters and mild summers. Ypres sees average high temperatures of 23°C (73°F) in July and August—winter daytime temperatures from December to February average around seven °C (45°F). However, the weather is changeable, with rain possible year-round. Snow does occur in winter, but heavy snowfall is unusual. Total annual precipitation is around 700 mm (28 inches), spread over 100 rainy days annually on average. The wettest months tend to be October through January. Wind and grey skies are also common, especially in the shoulder seasons of fall and spring. But the climate allows outdoor sightseeing to be done most months except for a few frigid winter days. Overall, pack an umbrella and warm layers when visiting Ypres. The moderate climate lacks extremes, but rain and chill are uncommon. Visiting during summer provides the best chance for consistently bright, dry days to stroll around this historic city.

Is Ypres worth visiting?

Yes, Ypres is worth visiting for several reasons. As the site of numerous important World War I battles, Ypres provides a fascinating look into this major conflict. The museums, memorials, cemeteries and preserved battlegrounds around Ypres offer a deep understanding of the Great War's terrible toll. For history buffs, it's an unmissable destination. Architecturally, Ypres' beautiful reconstructed town centre is a gem, with Gothic sites like the dramatic Cloth Hall and St. Martin's Cathedral. The lively Grote Markt central square buzzes with cafes and hosts a charming weekly market. Foodies can sample excellent Belgian cuisine, chocolate and beers. The Gothic Lakenhalle makes shopping for lace and antiques a delight. Ypres also provides a cosy small-town atmosphere and a slower pace of life compared to many destinations. Located in the serene countryside of West Flanders, it's very walkable and cycle-friendly. The friendly locals, a wealth of accommodations and tourism infrastructure make Ypres accessible. So, Ypres offers history, hospitality and an engaging visit for those intrigued by World War I, Belgian culture or charm. It's worth adding to one's European itinerary.

Is Ypres expensive?

Yes, Ypres is slightly more expensive than other towns. In assessing the affordability of Ypres, one must consider various factors, including the price of essential goods and the overall cost of living. Presently, the cost of essential goods such as milk, cigarettes, water and breakfast tends to be higher than in other places in Belgium. The cost of living in Ypres can vary greatly depending on one's preferences and lifestyle. Generally speaking, living in Ypres might be slightly more expensive than other towns in the region. This is mirrored in the prices of everyday goods, which may carry a premium in this area. Travelling to and from Ypres can be considered moderate. The total distance covered and the mode of transportation chosen can significantly influence the expenditure. Trains and buses provide reasonably priced options for travelling within the region, but the costs can add up over time if one intends to travel frequently. It is crucial to note that the average price of a pint of beer in Ypres, while the exact pricing can vary based on the establishment one chooses to visit, it is not uncommon to find that the price of a pint of beer ranging around 4 to 6 euros. Consequently, it affirms that prices in Ypres are slightly higher, but not prohibitively, making it a location where one can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without straining their budget too much.

Is Ypres safe?

Ypres is generally considered a very safe city to visit. As a popular tourist destination, the local authorities prioritise public safety and security within the city. Violent crime is infrequent and petty theft or pickpocketing incidents are minimal compared to other major European cities. Ypres has low crime rates overall and tourists can comfortably walk around day or night without concern. Basic precautions should still be taken, such as being aware of valuables in crowded areas and not leaving belongings unattended. But there are no “no-go” zones or known issues with scam artists targeting visitors. Being a small provincial city, Ypres does not suffer from socioeconomic problems, high unemployment and associated crimes that sometimes affect larger Belgian metropolises. The atmosphere is easygoing and relaxed. Belgian police also maintain a visible presence around main tourist sites. So visitors of all ages can be reassured that Ypres has an excellent safety record and lacks any significant threats to personal security. Ypres is one of Belgium's safest and most welcoming destinations for travellers.

Is Ypres easy to visit with kids?

Yes, Ypres is easy to visit with kids. The city's central market square boasts a vintage carousel from the 1950s that kids can ride for a small fee. Many cafes and restaurants around the main square also have outdoor seating where children are welcome. While sober and essential to see, the Menin Gate memorial has exhibits and displays that help bring World War I history alive for children. The In Flanders Fields Museum also has an entire section tailored for children ages 6-12 with hands-on exhibits and multimedia guides. Outside the city, family-friendly activities include exploring the reconstructed World War I trenches at Sanctuary Wood. Bicycles can be rented to ride along Ypres' ramparts and peaceful canals. On certain evenings, the historic Cloth Hall is illuminated by a spectacular sound and light show that children find mesmerising making Ypres with kids and toddlers fun. For green space and outdoor play, the 55-acre Waddebrouck Park has a mini zoo, playgrounds, mini golf and an outdoor swimming pool. So, with a blend of history, culture and entertainment, Ypres can provide an enjoyable and educational visit for families and kids of all ages.

What are the UNESCO World Heritage sites in Belgium?

Listed below are the UNESCO World Heritage sites in Belgium:

• Belfry and Cloth Hall, Ghent. The Belfry and Cloth Hall in Ghent stands as grand symbols of the city's economic and cultural prosperity in the past. With its towering Belfry, this majestic structure allows visitors to soak in panoramic views of the city, offering a glimpse of Ghent in all its glory. Within its confines, one finds an architectural marvel and a repository of the city's history, narrating tales of the glorious days of trade and commerce.
• Saint Rumbold's Cathedral Tower, Mechelen. The magnificence of Saint Rumbold's Cathedral Tower in Mechelen cannot be missed. This towering structure, a prominent part of Mechelen's skyline, tells a story of architectural brilliance and religious significance. A visit here promises a spiritual retreat and a journey through time, with its intricate carvings and stunning artworks narrating the tales of a bygone era.
• Basilica of Our Lady and City Tower, Tongeren. The Basilica of Our Lady and City Tower in Tongeren stands as testimony to the region's rich religious and cultural heritage. With its stunning Gothic architecture and impressive city tower, this sacred site offers visitors a tranquil retreat where history and spirituality meet to create an enriching experience, leaving a lasting imprint on one's soul.
• Belfry and Aldermen's House, Aalst. The Belfry and Aldermen's House in Aalst is a site embodying Belgian heritage and architecture. This is one of Belgium’s UNESCO World Heritage sites that serves as a beacon of the city's historical and cultural narratives, where each stone and carving holds tales of the past. A visit here promises an enriching journey, offering insights into the region's rich history and travel through time.
• Cathedral of Our Lady, Antwerp. The Cathedral of Our Lady in Antwerp, stands as a beacon of architectural brilliance and spiritual serenity. This towering structure, adorned with stunning artworks and Gothic architecture, invites visitors to embark on a journey of spiritual enlightenment and artistic appreciation. As one explores its hallowed halls, one can't help but be moved by the intricate details and the profound sense of peace permeating the sacred space.

PIN FOR LATER

Dates of Holidays in Belgium 2024 [Annually updated]

Namur Travel Guide: 15 Best Attractions to visit in Namur!

Mons Travel Guide: 15 Best things to do in Mons, History, Attractions

Dinant Travel Guide: 17 Attractions to visit in Dinant, History, Hotels & Restaurants

16 Best things to do in Ninove: Travel Guide, History, Attractions, Transportation & Markets

15 Amazing Things to do in Kortrijk: Travel Guide: History, Attractions, Transportation & Markets

15 Top Things to do in Tournai: Travel Guide, History, Attractions, Facts and Transportation

Ghent Christmas Market 2023-2024:🎅 Dates, Location, Attractions

15 Best restaurants in Brussels: Where to eat in Brussels?

19 Best Hotels to stay in Brussels – Neighbourhoods, Luxury, Hostels, Family and Airport Hotels

20 Fun Christmas Markets in Belgium to visit in 2023 – 2024

Mechelen Christmas Market 2023-2024:🎅 Dates, Location, Attractions

Charleroi Christmas Market 2023-2024: 🎅 Dates, Location, Attractions

Mons Christmas Market 2023-2024:🎅 Dates, Location, Attractions

Namur Christmas Market 2023-2024: 🎅 Dates, Location, Attractions

Ostend Christmas Market 2023-2024: 🎅 Dates, Location, Attractions

17 Best Bars in Brussels and their signature Drinks

Dinant Christmas Market 2023-2024:🎅 Dates, Location, Attractions

Louvain-la-Neuve Christmas Market 2023-2024: 🎅 Dates, Location, Attractions

Liege Christmas Market 2023-2024:🎅 Dates, Location, Attractions

10 Best Brussels Museums, Art Galleries and Exhibitions

20 Best things to do in Ardennes: My 4 day itinerary

29 Interesting Facts about Brussels

Brussels Travel Guide: 18 Best Things to Do, History, Facts and Hotels

Brussels Christmas Markets 2023-2024: 🎅 Dates, Location, Attractions

Visiting Hallerbos: The Blue Forest of Belgium

Visiting the Villers Abbey: Location, History and Guide!

Fort Breendonk: Concentration camp turned National Memorial

C-mine Genk: Mining site turned to Cultural center

Waterloo Battlefield: A Travelers Guide, 200+ years after the Battle

The editorial team at Wonderful Wanderings brings together travel experts with backgrounds in travel writing, web development and digital marketing. The team, through their collaborative effort, provides readers with relevant travel experiences and up-to-date digital content. The vast expertise within the team ensures an informative blend of travel stories and useful online travel guides and trip experiences, built on a foundation of both industry recognition and hands-on global adventures. Learn more about Wonderful Wanderings

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Join 58,000+ other Wonderful Wanderers!

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

18 EPIC Things to Do in Ypres, Belgium in 2024

This article may contain affiliate links. This means we receive a small commission whenever you book or purchase something through our links (at no extra cost to you!). You can find more information in our disclaimer .

Wander through the ancient streets of Ypres where every step is a lesson in resilience and remembrance. A city that seamlessly blends the charm of its architecture with the solemnity of its past.

SUMMARY : Ypres is the centre of WW I-history in Belgium. The 3 things you shouldn’t miss are the Last Post Ceremony at the Mening Gate , the In Flanders Fields Museum and the Tyne Cot Cemetery . Visit them independently or on a small-group tour .

Welcome to Ypres Belgium!

As someone who lives just an hour away and has grown up immersed in the stories of World War I (my great-grandfather was part of the resistance – and killed in a concentration camp because of it), I’m here to be your guide through this historic city.

In this article, I’ll take you through the key sites of Ypres , sharing insights and tips that only a local would know. From the famous Menin Gate to the vibrant Market Square, each place tells a part of Ypres’ rich history.

I aim to help you discover the best of Ypres, whether you’re interested in its wartime history, architecture, or just looking to explore a beautiful spot in Belgium .

The Best Things To Do in Ypres

1. Visit the Market Square & the Cloth Hall

Ypres, like most Flemish towns and cities, has a beautiful historical market square . 

On Saturday morning, the Market Square becomes a bustling hub of activity, filled with vendors selling everything from local produce to clothes and shoes. 

In Ypres, the impressive Cloth Hall runs away with all the attention.

The Cloth Hall, one of the oldest commercial buildings in Europe , was once used for trading some of the best and finest textiles in the world. This building was finished in 1378 and is Europe’s largest civilian Gothic complex .

On one side of the Cloth Hall, you can find the Belfry (a part of the UNESCO World Heritage List together with 31 other Belfries).

Many of the main sights in Ypres can be found in the Cloth Hall, such as the Flanders Fields Museum , the Yper Museum , and the Tourism Office .

Today, visitors can enjoy and wander the halls of the impressive building, admiring the stunning architecture and its rich history.

💡 Tip : Explore Ypres with this self-guided walking tour .    

2. Watch the Last Post at Menin Gate

The Last Post Ceremony at the Menin Gate is a daily tribute to the fallen warriors of WWI and is something you can’t miss when you’re in Ypres.

The Last Post was a ritual in the British Army that signified the end of the day and the start of the night’s rest . 

Since 1928 , buglers from the Last Post Association have played the Last Post every evening at exactly 8 pm. The contemporary ceremony has become a final farewell and the onset of the soldiers’ eternal rest .

Originally, it was meant to honour those from the British Empire , but over time, the meaning has become wider to include all the deaths on both sides . 

The buglers stand underneath the Eastern bow of the gate , the left one, the furthest away if you come from the Market Square. 

Once finished, look at the 54.896 names of British soldiers that went missing from the start of the war until the 15th of August 1917 . 

You can find the names of the 34.957 soldiers that went missing from the 16th of August 1917 until the war’s end on the walls of Tyne Cot Memorial.

Practical Information

• Daily at 20:00
• At the Menin Gate (or watch the ceremony online )

3. City Walk

Ypres’ City Walk is a 6,6 km walk through the city centre . We always love following trinkets in the street on a walking tour; in this case, you have to follow the Cloth Hall outline. 

This city walk guides you along the main sights , parks and Medieval buildings .

You can buy the brochure at the local Ypres tourist office or online for €4 . 

Only one version is available, but it features 4 languages: Dutch, French, German and English. 

The brochure focuses on the three main themes that determine the city. The first is the history of the Cloth Hall and the Belfry.

The second is the figure of Arthur Mergelynck, a 19th-century nobleman who opened a museum about the nobless in Ypres (you can visit this museum!). 

The third theme is the reconstruction of the city after WWI .

If you don’t want or need the brochure, you can see the complete walk here and follow the trinkets starting at Market Square.

4. Tyne Cot Cemetery

This beautiful and moving memorial is dedicated to the soldiers who died during the First World War.

You’ll find the Tyne Cot Memorial, a short 15-minute drive from Ypres , in the little village of Passendale .

It is the largest Commonwealth War Graves Commission cemetery in the world, with almost 12,000 graves of brave soldiers who fought in the First World War.

As of September 2023, it’s recognised as Unesco World Heritage as part of the “Funerary and Memory sites of the First World War (Western Front)”

This impressive graveyard is situated in the middle of the fields and, as such, has some great views . However, great views are not the reason you’re visiting.

In 1917 , during the Third Battle of Ieper , the British Army lost around 300 000 men here. 

What originally started as a bunker with a medic post resulted in more and more graves. After the war, more bodies were found and buried in the graveyard . 

A total of 11 956 Allied soldiers were laid to rest here , as well as some German prisoners. 

The 34 957 names you can see on the monument’s wall are from British and New Zealand soldiers who went missing after the 16th of August 1917 (the ones before that date can be found at the Menin Gate).

Visitors to the cemetery can expect to see thousands of headstones, each one representing a life cut short. 

You can take a guided tour or explore the place on your own to learn about the area’s history and pay respect to the bravery of those who fought for our freedoms.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

• Open from February – November: 10:00-18:00
• Located 9 kilometres northeast of Ypres town centre, on the Tynecotstraat, a road leading from the Zonnebeekseweg (N332).
• Entry is Free

5. Yper Museum

While many things in Ypres are connected to the First World War, there are other sights too. One of them is the Yper Museum . 

Housed in a stunning 13th-century hospital building , the museum offers a fascinating look at the city’s history and the surrounding region. 

In the Yper Museum, you can witness the city’s evolution and learn about the 11 centuries of Ypres’ existence and its strategic importance during World War I . 

Visitors can expect to see artefacts, photographs, a unique collection of medieval coins and tools and interactive exhibits that shed light on Ypres’s history. 

Make sure to bring your kids to visit this museum , as there is a lot of fun stuff for them to do.

• Address : Lakenhallen, Grote Markt, Ieper
• Duration : 1,5 hour
• Opening Hours : April-September: 10:00-18:00 (Tue-Fri), 10:00-17:00 (Sat-Sun) | October-March: 10:00-17:00 (Tue-Sun)
• Closing days : Mondays; December 25 & January 1
• Prices : €8,50 (standard), €5 (19-25y), €4 (7-18y), free (0-7y), €18 (families)
• Combi ticket with IFFM : €15,50 (standard), €9,50 (19-25y), €7 (7-18y), free (0-7y), €36 (families)

6. St George’s Memorial Church

Inside the city centre of Belgium Ypres, there are two main memorial sites . The first is the Menin Gate , and the second is the St George’s Memorial Church . 

St George’s Memorial Church is one of the top things to see in Ypres for those looking for a historical and solemn Ypres attraction

The church was built in 1929 in the typical English parish church style. It is a place for worship and serves as a memorial to the soldiers who lost their lives in the First World War.

The church stands tall and proud with its intricate architecture and stunning stained-glass windows.

• Opening hours : daily,  from 10:00 until dusk (16:00 in winter)
• Address : Elverdingestraat 1, 8900 Ieper.
• For St. George’s Schedule and the latest updates: click here !

7. Bellewaerde

Bellewaerd is the oldest theme park in Belgium and is only a 5-minute drive from Ypres.

It’s primarily geared towards older kids and teenagers, although smaller kids will love it too (especially in the KidsPark). 

The park has over 50 attractions , including thrilling roller coasters , family-friendly rides , and water attractions to cool off on hot summer days. 

However, Bellewaerde is not just an amusement park; it’s also home to a safari where visitors can get up close and personal with over 300 animals , including tigers, lions, and gorillas .

• Opening hours : Open from April to November,  from   9:00 to 16:00/17:30
• Duration : Full day
• Address : Meenseweg 497, 8902 Ieper. 5 minutes from Ypres, 25 minutes from Kortrijk and 45 minutes from Bruges.
• Public transport : take the train to Ypres Station ( Ieper in Dutch) and then hop on bus 84 to the park.
• Prices : An adult ticket (140cm tall and above) costs  €40  if dated and  €41  if non-dated. For children (100cm to 140cm tall), a dated ticket costs  €36  and a non-dated ticket costs  €37 . People over 55 or with a disability can get tickets for  €33 . Book your ticket here .

8. Explore the In Flanders Fields Museum

This informative museum provides visitors with a comprehensive look into the history of World War I in the Ypres Region . 

From the moment you step inside the striking modernist building, you’ll be transported back in time, with the museum’s expertly curated exhibits bringing to life the personal stories of soldiers who fought and died in the area’s infamous battlefields.

The exhibits cover everything from battlefield tactics and technology to everyday life during the war.

It allows the visitors to fully engage with the area’s history, giving a greater understanding of the sacrifice and hardship endured by those who fought in the war.

Visitors can see a variety of artefacts , including photographs , weapons , letters and personal belongings of soldiers and civilians.  

Overall, the Flanders Fields Museum is a must-see destination for anyone seeking to learn more about the impact of World War I.

• Duration : 1.5 to 2 hours
• Address : Lakenhallen, Grote Markt 34, Ieper
• Opening hours : April-September: 10:00-18:00 (Mo-Fri), 10:00-17:00 (Sat-Sun) | October-mid November: 10:00-17:00 (daily) | mid-November-March: 10:00-17:00 (Tue-Sun)
• Prices : €12 (standard), €7 (19-25y), €6 (7-18y), free (0-7y), €26,50 (families)
• Extras : audioguide (+€2pp); entry to the Belfry (+€2pp)
• Combi ticket with Yper Museum : €15,50 (standard), €9,50 (19-25y), €7 (7-18y), free (0-7y), €36 (families)

9. Visit Saint Martin’s Cathedral

With intricate Gothic architecture and a rich history that dates back to the 13th century, this cathedral is a must-see attraction in the city. Note that you can’t visit the tower.

This iconic cathedral was completely destroyed during WWI , but it was rebuilt based on the restoration plans that had been designed before the war.

practical information

• Opening hours : daily from 9:00 to 17:00 except during masses.
• Price : free
• Address : Vandenpeereboomplein, Ieper

10. Go on a day trip to WWI battlefields

Exploring the WWI memorials around Ypres is a deeply moving experience, but it’s important to understanding the town’s, Belgium’s, and the world’s history.

These battlefields , recognized as UNESCO World Heritage sites since September 2023 , offer a poignant journey through time.

You can connect with the past through cemeteries, memorials, and museums that narrate the stories of the Great War. Major sites like the In Flanders Fields Museum and the Menin Gate can be found in the centre, but there are so many other sites that you’ll want to visit in the Westhoek region of Belgium.

If you have your own (rental) car available, it’s easy to visit these places independently. However, if you don’t, I recommend you book a guided tour to make the most of your time.

These are the best tours available from Ypres:

• Ypres Battlefields Public Half-Day Tour
• Private 4-Hour Tour Of The Ypres Battlefield
• The Christmas Truce To Passchendaele Ypres Based WW1 Private Tour    (full-day)

11. Explore the Ramparts

The Ramparts is a system of fortification that surrounds the city , consisting of a moat , walls, and cannons used to defend against invaders.  

Today, you can take a leisurely walk along the walls , soak up the picturesque views , learn about the city’s history , and witness a piece of Belgium’s architectural heritage .

With the walls dating back to the 17th century , visitors can also witness battle scars from the city’s past, including the old cannons used in battles long ago , as well as several memorials dedicated to those who lost their lives .

The Ramparts are also home to several fascinating historical sites, including the famous Menin Gate Memorial and the Lille Gate , which date back to the 14th century. 

Ypres isn’t the busiest destination, but I still loved to retreat back to the calm of the ramparts and its park.

💡 Top Tip : It’s fun that you can walk (nearly) all the way around the city if you want to. This Ramparts Route is 4,5 km long and takes about 2 hours to complete. It’s a circular route and there are 5 entry points to start the walk. You can download the route here .  

12. Hill 60 & Caterpillar

Hill 60 was a critical strategic location during World War I. It was the site of intense fighting between Allied and German forces , resulting in many casualties. 

Today it’s a peaceful green hill with lush trees and a memorial at the top . 

Another nearby attraction is the Caterpillar .

Caterpillar is an enormous crater caused by an explosion during the war . It’s a reminder of the devastation during the conflict.

These days, visitors can explore these areas, see the preserved trenches , craters, and bunkers , and gain insight into the horrific conditions soldiers faced during this time.

• Opening hours : Permanent
• Address : Zwarteleenstraat 40, 8902 Ieper (Hill 60) – Caterpillar is on the other side of the train tracks

13. Hooge Crater Museum

With various exhibits , including weapons , personal artefacts , and interactive displays, the museum provides a fascinating look at the experiences of soldiers and civilians during wartime. 

Visitors can also learn about the war’s tactics and technology, explore the surrounding landscape, and discover the remains of bunkers , trenches, and bomb craters, allowing visitors to experience what life was like for soldiers on the front lines.

Hooge Crater Museum is the largest museum about WWI history and definitely worth a visit for history lovers or those looking to deepen their WWI knowledge.

There’s a themed cafe on site where you can get snacks, ice cream and Belgian dishes.

• Opening hours : Wed-Sat (10:00-18:00), Sun (10:00-21:00)
• Duration : 1h15
• Address : Meenseweg 467, 8902 Ieper, Belgium (about a 10-minute drive from the centre)
• Prices : €9 (regular ticket), € 6.5 (student 18-26yo), €5.5 (7-18yo)

14. Mergelynck Museum

This fascinating museum is dedicated to the life and work of the renowned architect Louis Mergelynck, who designed many of the beautiful buildings in Ypres during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries . 

Margelynck Museum is also known for its extraordinary collection of Flemish art and decorative items from the 17th and 18th centuries .

Visitors can explore the beautifully restored mansion that houses the museum , admire the intricate interior design details and see some rare and exceptional pieces. Including wooden furniture from the 17th century , tapestries from the 18th century , and even archaeological remains of the city’s medieval past.

You can also see a unique collection of toys and games from the early 20th century and a collection of ancient weapons . 

• Opening Hours : every 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month from April to mid-November.  The tour starts at 15:00.
• Duration : 1 hour
• Address : Merghelynckstraat 2, 8900 Ieper
• Prices : Only possible to visit with a guide, per adult €5 the guide costs €70, free for kids <6 years.
• Museum website (only in Dutch)

15. De Kazematten

Built in the early 19th century , the brewery’s underground tunnels were originally used as a military fortification system .

But in 2013, they were repurposed to house top-notch brewing equipment and a cosy tasting room . 

It’s not just the historical significance that makes De Kazematten worth a visit, though. The brewery also produces delicious , award-winning beers that impress any beer enthusiast.

Today, you can go on a guided tour of the tunnels while you learn more about the intricate process behind the brewery’s distinctive beers.

And yes! During the tour, visitors can also sample the delicious Belgian beer while enjoying some tasty snacks .

• Opening hours : Tours on Saturdays at 15:00, 16:00 & 17:00. Additional tour on Fridays at 17:00 (April-November). Additional tour on Thursdays at 17:00 (July-August).
• Address : Houten Paard 1, Ieper
• Prices : €12 per person, 3 degustations included

16. Hamilton Park

With its beautiful trees, winding paths, and tranquil lake, Hamiltonpark is a peaceful spot in the city centre.

You can walk to the park in 5 minutes if you’re coming from the train station or in 18 minutes if you’re coming from the market square.

You can also take a scenic walk to the nearby Ramparts Cemetery , near the Lille Gate, where you’ll find the graves of many soldiers who died in the First World War .

• Address : Oudstrijderslaan 19, Ieper
• Price : Free

17. Provincial Domain Palingbeek

With 230 hectares, domain Palingbeek is the largest provincial domain in West Flanders. Unsurprisingly, the area used to be a World War I battlefield . But today, it’s a peaceful escape where you can find a ton of activities. 

There’s a visitor centre, a restaurant, different play zones, a bat cellar (cool!), lots of memorial sites and kilometres of hiking and biking trails.

One highlight when visiting Palingbeek is the Hedge Row Trench Cemetry , Waterlock , Sculptuur Remember Me , and many more! 

Follow the Palingbeek hike for the easiest way do explore the main sights of the domain.

• Address : Vaartstraat 7, 8902 Ieper – Zillebeke
• Opening Hours : The domain is open from sunrise to sunset
• Price: free

18. Try Eel in the Green

There are a lot of historical sights in Ypres, but don’t forget to experience the local cuisine .

One dish that stands out in Ypres is the Eel in the Green which is a popular Belgian dish and a must-try for food lovers.

‘Eel in the Green’ is known for its unique flavour and texture and is cooked in a mixture of herbs and a green-made sauce from parsley , sorrel, spinach and watercress (other herbs might be used too) and other ingredients like butter and starch .

The eel is tender and juicy, often served with boiled potatoes , bread, or potato fries . The green sauce adds a refreshing and satisfying flavour to the dish. You can add squeezed lemon, too!

While this dish is popular all over Flanders and Belgium, in the Ypres version, the eel is caught in De Palingbeek (yep, that’s the small river you’ve read about in item #17).

Where to Stay in Ypres

I stayed at B&B Wellness Yoake , which was absolutely lovely. It came with a wonderful breakfast, an enormous room with a separate dining and living area, and a perfect location in a calm street just minutes away from the Market Square.

But Ypres has several other good hotels and bed and breakfasts, all conveniently located in the compact centre. Here are some recommendations:

BUDGET | Hotel O is an eco-friendly accommodation with modern amenities, centrally located just off the Market Square, and offers a free breakfast buffet with organic and fair trade options. Check rates and availability here .

MID-RANGE | Hotel Ariane is a family-run gem with elegantly furnished rooms, a picturesque garden with pond, a superb breakfast buffet, and free parking. Check rates and availability here .

BOUTIQUE | Main Street Hotel is praised for its exceptional comfort, unique and luxurious rooms, outstanding breakfast featuring local ingredients, and attentive service provided by host Elodie. Check rates and availability here .

APARTMENT | Pilgrim’s Loft is a highly-rated, spacious 2-bedroom apartment set in a serene location, offering a perfect blend of modern amenities in a historical building with easy access to local attractions. Check rates and availability here .

How to Get To Ypres

Ypres, nestled in South West Flanders, has direct train connections to Ghent (1h10), Antwerp (2h10) and Kortrijk (0h37). With a connection in Ghent, it’s also conveniently accessible by train from Brussels (2hrs).

If you’d like to go by car , know that distances in Belgium are relatively small. You should be able to reach Ypres in 1-1.5 hours from most destinations . There are several free parking lots on the edge of the city . I parked at the one in front of the train station. From there, it’s a 10-minute walk to the Market Square.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ypres

Is ypres worth visiting.

Yes, Ypres Belgium, is definitely worth visiting. It’s a city filled with historical significance and charm, with many sites related to World War I. If you’re looking for what to do in Ypres, don’t miss the Last Post Ceremony at the Menin Gate and a visit to the In Flanders Fields Museum.

What is Ypres famous for?

Ypres is most famously known for being the site of three major battles during World War I. It was the scene of significant offensives by German and Allied forces and a key centre of war production. Ypres is also remembered for its beautiful architecture, cemeteries, monuments, and museums, including its iconic Cloth Hall, rebuilt after being destroyed during the war.

How many days do you need in Ypres?

To explore Ypres and its many attractions, you should plan for at least 2-3 nights in the city. This will give you enough time to see all the major sites and participate in some of the guided tours available.

What is a fun fact about Ypres?

A fun fact about Ypres is that the town is known for its unique bell-ringing tradition. Every night at 8:00 pm, the bells of Ypres Cathedral toll out in remembrance of WWI soldiers who tragically lost their lives in the area.

What language is spoken in Ypres?

Ypres is located in Flanders, the Northern part of Belgium. In Flanders, Dutch is the main language .

So, what are the Best things to do in Ypres?

While Ypres may have been a difficult and dark past , today it’s a beautiful city that definitely deserves a visit.

It’s the place you’ll want to visit if you’re interested in WWI history. Sites like the Menin Gate, the In Flanders Fields Museum and the Tyne Cot Memorial are not to be missed.

But you can find more than war memorials in this charming city in South West Flanders. Exploring the Yper Museum, walking the ramparts and hiking or biking at Palingbeek Domain are great things to do, especially if you’re travelling with young(er) kids.

I hope you agree that Ypres is well worth visiting as a day trip from Brussels or Bruges, but even better as a weekend trip in Belgium.

BELGIUM TRAVEL PLANNING RESOURCES  

Getting to Belgium : Fly into one of the main international airports : Brussels Airport (BRU) or Charleroi Brussels South Airport (CRL). Take an international train to Brussels South Station. Or take a ferry to Dover or The Netherlands, then drive or take the train to Belgium.

Getting Around : For the major destinations, the train is by far the best option. You can book your train tickets here . If you’d like to visit smaller places, the most convenient way would be to rent a car. We always use Discover cars , they compare all the rental companies and give you the best rates.

Accommodation : Booking.com is the most popular accommodation platform in Belgium. It’s what I use every single time.

Guided tours : Use Get Your Guide or Viator to find fun tours in Brussels, Bruges, Ghent and Antwerp. Or Guruwalk to find free walking tours in multiple destinations.

Babs Rodrigus is a travel addict at heart and loves to explore her home country Belgium and the rest of the world – preferably with her wife and kids. She’s all about showing you the most mesmerising spots in this tiny European country and making you see how great it truly is.

When she’s not travelling, Babs loves to read, write, eat chocolate (hey, Belgian remember) and sing Frozen songs with her daughter.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Day Trip to Ypres, War Sites, and World War I Battlefields in Belgium

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: May 2, 2024

Does the name Ypres (Ieper) ring a bell to you? What about Flanders Fields – the World War I battlefields in Belgium ? If it does, you are now probably seeing images of the ‘great’ war, of the trenches and poison gas, and of hundreds of thousands of young soldiers who lost their lives in the war…

If you are wondering how to visit Ypres and the WW1 sites and battlefields in Belgium , then read on!

In this article, we are sharing our experience and tips for your visit to Ypres and the WWI battlefields. First, you can read about what to see and do in Ypres. In addition, you can find information about Tyne Cot and other famous Great War cemeteries near Ypres, as well as other WWI sites.

At the bottom of this post, you can find our suggested self-drive 1-day itinerary and also organized day tours that visit Ypres and WW1 sites in Belgium.

TIP: If you have no time to read the article and are looking for the best tour that visits Ypres and the battlefields, then check out this highly-rated day tour . It’s the best tour that’s available and ideal if you don’t have a car.

Day Trip to Ypres and World War I Battlefields

Why did we choose Ypres and the WWI battlefields for a family day trip?

This part of Europe has been a battlefield for so many armies throughout history, and Belgian schools do their utmost to ensure that future generations do not forget. The WWI battlefields near Ypres and the WWII Bastogne War Museum and Mardasson Memorial are the main war sites in Belgium and every child learns about their significance.

So it was not a surprise that our 8-year-old son came home from school one day and told us what he had learned about the terrible battlefields in West Flanders where hundreds of thousands of soldiers from all over the world died in the mud. He learned about the use of poison gas, Yperite, life in the trenches, and the fact that the soldiers were even eating their horses in order to survive in no-man’s-land.

We then realized that it was maybe time to bring him and his little brothers to the places he had heard and read about. In fact, we felt a bit ashamed, because it’s less than 2 hours from where we live and we hadn’t visited Ypres yet. While, in the meantime, tens of thousands of people come from all over the world to visit Ypres and the war battlefields every year…

So we thought it was a good time to take some time for reflection and to go back in time a hundred years (or does that sound too serious now?). And we decided to make a day trip to Ypres and surroundings. 

We had a very interesting, moving, and educational day and so I want to share our experience. Whether you live here or are visiting Belgium, Ypres and the WWI battlefields are certainly worth the trip!

In Flanders Fields

Before I share practical information about visiting Ypres and the WWI Battlefields, I’d like to share this beautiful poem by John McCrae – ‘In Flanders Fields’.

In Flanders fields the poppies blow Between the crosses, row on row, That mark our place; and in the sky The larks, still bravely singing, fly Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow, Loved and were loved, and now we lie In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe: To you from failing hands we throw The torch; be yours to hold it high. If ye break faith with us who die We shall not sleep, though poppies grow In Flanders fields.

Tyne Cot Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery and Memorial

It was a cold December day and when we arrived in the tiny village of Zonnebeke the faint winter sun was there to welcome us.

It is here that some of the most infamous battles of WWI, the battle of Passchendaele (Passendale), took place in 1917, taking the lives of more than half a million soldiers.

Tyne Cot war cemetery is an obligatory stop when visiting the war battlefields in Belgium. It put us all in the ‘mood’ for the rest of that day: an impressive burial ground for almost 12,000 Commonwealth soldiers, most of whom the name/identity could never be established.

Our kids understood the meaning of a ‘world war’ after seeing headstones of soldiers from places as far away as Australia, New-Zealand, Canada, South-Africa or India in this tiny little village in Flanders.

The stone wall surrounding the cemetery makes-up the Tyne Cot Memorial to the Missing. Walking around here and seeing the names of almost 35,000 missing Commonwealth soldiers who died here after 1917 is very moving.

Practical information for visiting Tyne Cot:

• Tyne Cot is located approx. 10km outside the city center of Ypres. Address: Vijfwegestraat, 8980 Zonnebeke
• The Tyne Cot visitor’s center was closed during winter, but the cemetery can be visited anytime.

After visiting Tyne Cot, we drove to the center of Ypres, where we had a quick lunch. It wasn’t that easy to find something at a decent price and good quality in this tourist area in the low season, but there were a few restaurants open. I assume that there is more choice if you come here in the high tourist season.

After lunch, we visited the In Flanders Field Museum – it’s located right on the main town square of Ypres.

Ypres – Ieper

When you are visiting the battlefields, make sure to also take the time to explore the small town center of Ypres. If you are not sure where to go, you can follow the signs on the pavement for a tourist route – see the picture below.

Don’t miss the Cloth Hall where In Flanders Fields Museum is located, the St Martin’s Cathedral , the Menin Gate Memorial and the Ramparts next to the canal! Read on for more information about these places!

In Flanders Fields Museum and the Bell Tower

The In Flanders Fields Museum is situated right on the main square of Ypres town, in the impressive Lakenhalle building, or Ypres Cloth Hall . This is definitely a must if you want to get a picture of life during the war! 

We steered the kids away from some of the videos and photographs that were too shocking in detail. On the other hand, our kids showed a huge interest in the stories told by children who survived the war, in the weapons, the clothes, and the various interactive displays.

For more information and practical information, check the official website of the In Flanders Fields museum .

Inside the museum, you can also opt to climb the Bell Tower (Belfry). If you’re fit enough, make sure to do it! The views are great and in the distance, you can see the surroundings where all those battles of WWI took place.

Needless to say, we climbed the 231 steps of the Bell Tower (our kids can never resist a tower to climb!). From there, we had a fantastic view of the city, including the Menin Gate. It’s definitely worth the climb and the kids loved it!

The Menin Gate and the Last Post

Another must-see landmark in Ypres, the Menin Gate , is sometimes also referred to as Ypres War Memorial. It has the names of almost 55,000 missing Commonwealth soldiers who died in the area between 1914 and 1917. Hundreds of thousands of men passed through this gate on their way to the battlefields.

The size of the monument is very impressive. But it’s not before you see thousands of names on the endless walls that you really get a lump in your throat. There are flowers everywhere and many  ‘We will not forget’ messages that people still leave here every day.

“They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old: Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning, We will remember them.” – Laurence Binyon

Good to know: Every evening, at 8 PM, the Last Post is sounded at the Menin Gate . Following the Menin Gate Memorial opening in 1927, the people of Ypres wanted to express their gratitude towards those who had given their lives for Belgium’s freedom, and since that day for almost a century now, a daily ceremony is held at the Menin Gate. It’s a simple, but moving tribute.

The Last Post would certainly have been an unforgettable experience, but we also wanted to visit other places around Ypres, so we decided to leave this for a next visit. And indeed, a few months later, we returned to Ypres and listened to the Last Post. It’s so moving! If you can, wait for it.

The Ramparts of Ypres

If you have some time to discover Ypres more, it’s well worth walking on the walls surrounding the city.

The Ypres ramparts can be accessed via the Menin Gate. The official website of Ypres tourism has some more information about the Ramparts of Ypres .

Yorkshire Trench & Dug-Out

Our kids wanted to see the trenches, so we drove to the Yorkshire Trench & Dug-Out where we could walk through the restored trenches.

We had some difficulties finding the place in the middle of an industrial area. In fact, the whole place has only been discovered in 1997 with the creation of the industrial site. While the kids walked through the trenches we read the explanatory signs. It’s so eye-opening to learn about life during the war.

Practical info for visiting Yorkshire Trench & Dug-Out:

• Yorkshire Trench & Dug-Out is not easy to find. It’s a very small place, amidst the industrial buildings, so drive slowly and look for a sign, on the left side if coming from Ypres. Address: Bargiestraat, 8904 Ieper

Langemark German War Cemetery

We continued our trip and went on to Langemark , where the first gas attacks took place, to visit the German war cemetery . More than 44,000 German soldiers are buried here, almost 25,000 of them in a mass grave.

If you come to meditate, this is a very good place to be. It was calm and quiet at the popular landmark like Tyne Cot, but this place was absolutely abandoned. The flat grave markers give this cemetery a distinct and modest look. The German graveyards are very different than the somewhat pompous Tyne Cot.

Practical info for visiting Langemark German war cemetery:

• Address: Klerkenstraat 64, 8920 Poelkapelle

Essex Farm Cemetery

One of the best known WWI sites in Ypres is the Essex Farm Cemetery . If you have the time, it’s definitely worth a visit too. You can read more about it here: Essex Farm .

Yser Tower – IJzertoren Diksmuide

The kids wanted to see the Yser Tower (IJzertoren) so we drove to the nearby town of Diksmuide . The Yser Tower is a peace monument and commemorates the soldiers killed on the Yser Front during WWI.

The Yser Tower, the highest peace monument in Europe, symbolizes the demand for peace. Words ‘No more war’ are written on the tower in the four languages of the fighting forces in the area during the First World War (Dutch, French, English, and German).

We knew it would be too late to visit the 22-floors museum (they close at 5 PM in winter), but we could at least make a walk around the peace site with the tower and the impressive Gate of Peace .

Trench of Death, Diksmuide

You can also visit the Trench of Death near Diksmuide . It’s a larger site than the Yorkshire Trench & Dug-Out. We skipped this as it was already dark by the time we were in the area. From what I understand, it’s a much more popular site with longer trenches, so if you have time to do just one, try the Trench of Death.

Here you can find more info for visiting the Trench of Death.

Vladslo German War Cemetery

Our next stop was the Vladslo German war cemetery . It’s one of the many cemeteries in the area, with almost 26,000 soldiers buried there.

It is an impressive place, with each gravestone containing 20 names of soldiers. But it is especially known for the Grieving Parents statues by Käthe Kollwitz , whose son is buried in this cemetery.

It was getting pretty dark by now and walking amongst the graves of so many young men who lost their life here was a moving and unusual experience. Although it all happened a hundred years ago we could still feel the pain, the suffering, and the death around us.

Suggested one day itinerary for Ypres and the World War I Battlefields in Belgium

Visiting Ypres and the war cemeteries was a unique experience, also for the children. We won’t quickly forget it!

If you are visiting Belgium, I highly recommend paying a visit to the WWI battlefields and Ypres.

If you have your own car and want to visit the most interesting WWI battlefields and cemeteries around Ypres in a day, I suggest the following itinerary:

Vladslo German war cemetery – the Trench of Death – Yser Tower and the Gate of Peace – Tyne Cot – Essex Farm or Langemark German War Cemetery – Ypres .

READ ALSO: What to See & Do in Bruges

Best Tours to Ypres & WWI Battlefields

If you don’t have a car, it’s best to book an  organized tour to Ypres (see below). You can also take a train to Ypres and visit the sights in town, but it’s not easy to see any other sights if you don’t have transportation.

Ypres tour from Brussels. This might be a good day trip to consider if you are staying in Brussels for a few days. However, the tours for visiting Ypres from Brussels seem to have been discontinued. So you would have to first take a train to Bruges and then a tour from there – see below.

There are several organized tours to the Ypres battlefields that leave from Bruges . Bruges is very close to Ypres, so this is something definitely worth doing if you are staying there for a few days. Check this highly-rated tour to Ypres from Bruges .

TIP: You can easily take a train to Bruges from any other city in Belgium and join this tour for a day – it starts and ends at the train station in Bruges.

READ ALSO: Best Tours in Bruges & Nearby

Tips for Visiting Ypres and WWI Sites

• Plan ahead what you want to see , read about the places you want to visit, and decide on your itinerary in advance. There is so much to do in the area! If you travel with kids, you may want to tell them some history so that they know what to expect and understand what they see. Ypres City has an excellent website to help you prepare for your trip.
• If you are planning to travel by car, start your day early in the morning, especially in winter. Or stay overnight and take your time to explore the area more in-depth. We recommend this website for car hire. And if you are looking for a nice hotel in Ypres, check out Ariane Hotel .
• Take a picnic lunch if you are visiting the cemeteries during the day. We went to Ypres for lunch but wasted so much time on this.
• Dress warmly for the cemetery visits. There is a lot of wind in the area.

Books and Movies about the WWI

If you like history and want to know a bit more about World War I, here are some great book- and movie suggestions:

• The guns of August by Barbara Tuchman – about the start of WW I.
• The Great War: A Combat History of the First World War by Peter Hart.
• Voices from the Front: An Oral History of the Great War by Peter Hart.
• Movie and books about Passchendaele .

Yes, Ypres is worth visiting. The city is beautiful with some impressive landmarks, including Menin Gate and Flanders Fields Museum. In addition, Ypres is the starting point for visiting the World War I sites, battlefields, and war cemeteries throughout the region.

Ypres is best known as the site of five WWI battles between Germans and the Allied armies. Hundreds of thousands of soldiers have lost their lives near Ypres during the First World War. It was in Ypres that mustard gas (now called ‘Ieperiet’ or ‘Yperiet’) was used by Germans in 1917 for the first time.

At least 1 million people died in the battles near Ypres during WWI, with estimates up to 1,35 million casualties. First Battle (Oct-Nov 1914) had over 250,000 casualties, the Second Battle (Apr-May 1915) – around 100,000 casualties. The Battle of Passchendaele (July-November 1917) had around 400,000 to 800,000 casualties. The Fourth Battle of Ypres – 200,000 casualties, and the Fith Battle of Ypres had at least 10,000 casualties.

Yes, you can visit Ypres and Belgian WWI sites as a day trip from Brussels. Ypres is 120km from Brussels and it takes about 1,5 – 2 hours to drive there by car. You can also get to Ypres by train. But if you want to visit the war sites, it’s best to either come by car or with an organized tour from Bruges.

So, this is our guide to visiting the Flanders Fields and Ypres. If you are visiting Belgium and are not sure how to best plan your time, please check our suggested Belgium itinerary for 3 or 4 days . It covers all the musts!

READ ALSO: Fun Facts About Belgium

More tips for visiting Belgium, Luxembourg & The Netherlands:

• Where to go: Belgium Itinerary
• Safety: Is Belgium safe?
• Best Things to Do in Brussels
• Best Areas to Stay in Brussels
• Brussels Flower Carpet
• Belgium in Winter
• Brussels Christmas Market
• Belgium Christmas Markets
• Best Things to Do in Antwerp
• Where to Stay in Antwerp
• Hidden Gems of Antwerp
• Is Antwerp Worth Visiting
• Best Theme Parks in Belgium
• Antwerp with Kids
• Best Things to Do in Bastogne
• Best Things to Do in Dinant
• Bastogne War Museum (WWII sites)
• 1 Day in Amsterdam
• 2 Days in Amsterdam
• Best Things to Do in Amsterdam
• Amsterdam Travel Tips
• Best Day Trips from Amsterdam
• Lisse Tulip Fields
• Tips for Visiting Keukenhof Gardens
• Best Day Trips from Luxembourg

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin this image!

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Friday 22nd of September 2023

thanks so much for your one day suggestions. We've just done our day and found it immensely fulfilling and moving. thanks again.

Saturday 23rd of September 2023

Glad to help, Phil. It is a very moving place to visit, indeed. And so sad too, even more so these days when it's very clear that the world still hasn't learned from the past... Enjoy the rest of your time in Belgium!

Saturday 28th of December 2019

Thank you for the informative blog and the one day itinerary suggestion. It worked great and we had an interesting and smooth day in the Ypres area - all thanks to you! :)

Tuesday 31st of December 2019

Glad to hear that you had a great time and enjoyed your visit to Ypres, Maarit. I really appreciate your kind feedback.

Mick stenson

Friday 13th of December 2019

I have visited ypres 3 times every time there is something i missed the time before. it is a very moveing place. i will be returning next year. thanks you

Monday 16th of December 2019

Agree with you, Mick. It's a special place and there is a lot to visit in the region. Enjoy your 4th trip!

Tuesday 15th of October 2019

Hi Jurga, it was great reading your blog. I am organising a tour for former, serving and military historians, next Oct. I am myself an ex cavalry officer from the Indian army, and living in the UK. Having gone through your blog, except for transportation to and back from the UK, would you have the time to help me with advice. Would be grateful and obliged. I organise tours to India which include the battlefields there in the east along the Burmese border

Hi Paddy, I'm sorry but I can't really help you with organizing a trip. I have as much practical information as possible on the blog, but really have no time to help hundreds of thousands of our readers with the practical side of planning their own trips. I'm sure you'll figure it out. Planning a trip to Belgium is nothing compared to India ;)

Saturday 18th of May 2019

Hello Jurga - thank you for your thoughtful and insightful post. We are visiting the first week in June and had decided to stay in Ghent as a good launching pad to brugge, ypres, brussels. We want to spend a day in Ypres. I would like to take a tour to provide (1) a good concise history and (2) transport to the key sites. What would you recommend? Do I do separate tours in ypres and outside? should I just rent a car and do the outside ypres on my own? It is just my husband and me. Thank you for your advice. Jackie (NYC)

Monday 20th of May 2019

Hi Jackie, generally, we recommend this organized tour. It visits Ypres and also some main places outside the town. The tour leaves from Bruges, but you can easily get there by train from Ghent. There are several trains per hour and it takes about 20-30min depending on which station/ train you take. If you rather rent a car, you can definitely visit all those places on your own, it just will require some preparation as there are so many cemeteries and places worth visiting. The tours know the best ones and they have perfected their itineraries to make sure you make the most of your time. We drove there from home and been to the area several times to later find out that we missed some interesting places... So I'd recommend going with a tour.

• Visit Liverpool
• Visit The U.K.
• Other Destinations
• Ella In The Media
• Work With Me!

11 Fascinating Things to Do In & Around Ypres, Belgium

• August 31, 2021

There is a good chance that this post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you! As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. As ever, all opinions are my own.

As a history buff, Ypres was a non-negotiable on my 5-day trip to Belgium. This city was pretty much decimated in WW1, and its marshy surroundings are where a lot of the fighting took place.

Nowadays, the town has been completely restored, and there are a ton of things to do for visitors who are interested in learning more about the war or paying their respects.

The white gravestones of thousands of soldiers who never returned home from Ypres line the surrounding countryside, and adding Ypres to your Belgium itinerary is pretty much essential for any history enthusiast! 

There’s a ton to learn in Ypres, and, having spent two days in the town, it definitely doesn’t disappoint. Learning about Ypres’ history isn’t exactly easy, but it’s absolutely fascinating. In my opinion, Ypres is one of the best places to visit in Belgium. 

Oh, and top tip – Ypres and Ieper are the same place, and the two names are used interchangeably. Ypres is the town’s French name, and Ieper is its Flemish name.

If you’re planning a trip to Ypres and wondering what there is to see and do in the town and surrounding area, look no further – here are the very best things to do in Ypres, Belgium!

Table of Contents

The Best Things To Do In Ypres (Ieper), Belgium

1. menin gate memorial .

The Menin Gate is one of the top places to visit in Ypres, and is the city’s most famous landmark.

This huge white archway covers a passageway that countless British and Commonwealth soldiers walked through on their way to the trenches of the Ypres Salient.

At the end of the war, the arch (called the Menin Gate) was erected to serve as a place of memorial for those who never returned home, and were missing. 

An overwhelming 54,395 names of missing soldiers are inscribed into the walls of the Menin Gate…And that wasn’t even everybody. A further 34,984 names of the missing are inscribed on walls of the nearby Tyne Cot war cemetery.

Although you should definitely attend the Last Post Ceremony in the evening during your time in Ypres, which takes place at the Menin Gate, it’s also worth visiting here during daylight hours.

Without the crowds of the ceremony, you’ll be able to properly inspect the names on the wall and take in the full impact of them.

2. Last Post Ceremony

The Last Post Ceremony is the most unique thing to do in Ypres. Thousands of people flock to the town from all over the world to attend the ceremony each night.

The ceremony starts at 8pm sharp, and has taken place every night since 1928! It commences with buglers performing ‘The Last Post’, a traditional song which now represents remembrance for those who died in WW1.

After this, visiting groups will either perform songs, read poems, or make speeches to show their respects. Then, people lay wreaths of poppies on the ground in remembrance.

Attending the Last Post Ceremony is totally free. All you have to do is turn up (by 7.30 at the latest ideally) and take your place standing under the Menin Gate. 

For tips about finding the best place to stand and what to expect, check out my complete guide to attending the Last Post Ceremony .

3. In Flanders Fields Museum

Is this one of the best museums I have ever been to? Yes indeed!

The In Flanders Fields Museum , named after the famous poem by war poet John McCrae, documents the experience of soldiers in the trenches of the Ypres salient during WW1. It’s one of the most popular attractions in Ypres.

Its permanent exhibition contains hundreds of artefacts and photos from WW1, including objects left behind in the Ypres trenches. It also does a great job of keeping the story of the battles focused on the people who fought them, and their stories.

It was incredibly refreshing to visit a war museum that focuses on the people the war affected, rather than the strategies and tactics implemented by generals.

What was most fascinating was the focus on physical and mental health struggles the soldiers faced both during and after the war.

For so long these experiences were completely left out of the story of WW1, so I really appreciated learning about the war from another angle.

Entry tickets to the museum cost €10, or you can purchase a combined ticket (which also includes entry to the Yper Museum) for €13. I recommend allocating around 2 hours for your visit.

4. Essex Farm Cemetery

Since it’s just a leisurely 30-minute walk away from central Ypres, Essex Farm Cemetery is the best war cemetery to visit if you don’t want to hire a car or a bike (most of the war cemeteries, trenches and museums are not within walking distance from Ypres). 

The land just south of this cemetery was a dressing station for wounded soldiers and casualties from 1915-1917. It was here that John McCrae wrote the world-famous poem, ‘ In Flanders Fields ’.

There’s a short exhibition near the bunkers on the site teaching about the life and wartime experience of McCrae, and how he came to write ‘ In Flanders Fields ’.

There are over 1,200 soldiers buried or commemorated here, with 103 burials still unidentified. Although it’s not on the map, there is also another war cemetery just across the road from Essex Farm where you can visit and pay your respects.

5. Ypres Market Square

The Market Square is the very heart of Ypres’ old town, surrounded by charming historical buildings, cafes and restaurants. It’s a bit deceptive to call this area Ypres’ old town, since the majority of it is only a hundred years old.

That’s because the town was almost completely destroyed during the First World War. 

However, since then, the Market Square and old town have been painstakingly restored to resemble the original medieval buildings. So it’s like… a replica of the old town.

But it’s very convincing, and I would never have known if I hadn’t read it in my guidebook!

The Market Square is super photogenic. Well, I imagine it would be! The Market Square is often the venue for different events and festivals, and whilst I was in Ypres the Market Square was hosting a carnival.

At other times of the year, you’ll find an international car rally, a Christmas Market or, every Saturday, the Ypres Market, where you can shop for food, clothes and souvenirs.

6. Cloth Hall & Yper Museum

The Cloth Hall, which was originally constructed in 1304, was the commercial hub of Ypres in the middle-ages, when it operated as the market and warehouse for the area’s lucrative cloth industry.

Unfortunately, though, (like most things in Ypres) it was almost completely destroyed during the First World War. Just a few walls and a section of the tower are the only remaining parts of the original structure.

The Cloth Hall was rebuilt and restored between 1933 and 1967. Today, the Cloth Hall houses the In Flanders Fields Museum and the Yper Museum.

The In Flanders Fields Museum definitely attracts more visitors, but the Yper Museum is also worth visiting if you’d like to know more about the town’s history before WW1.

In the Yper Museum you’ll learn why people throw stuffed toy cats off the Cloth Hall’s Belfry once every three years at the Ypres Cat Festival. Nope, I’m not joking!

Entry to the Yper Museum costs €7, or you can get a combined ticket with the In Flanders Fields Museum for €13.

Best Things to Do Near Ypres, Belgium

If you have more than one day in Ypres, I highly recommend getting out of the town to visit the Ypres battlefields history of the Ypres Salient.

Getting here can be tricky, so I recommend either joining a tour or, if the weather is decent, hiring a bike. You could also rent a car, but this works out to be more expensive.

In terms of seeing as much as possible in one day, you really can’t beat this guided Ypres battlefields tour .

It takes in some of the most important locations of WW1, including the site of the Christmas Truce, the Sanctuary Wood Museum (which includes original trenches), the Tyne Cot Cemetery and many more!

Check out the full itinerary & latest prices here .

Here are some suggestions of places to visit near Ypres:

• 7. Tyne Cot Cemetery
• 8. Memorial Museum Passchendale 1917
• 9. Sanctuary Wood Museum
• 10. St Julien Canadian War Memorial
• 11. Yorkshire Trench and Dug Out

Is Ypres Worth Visiting?

Ypres is absolutely worth visiting, whether you’re a history enthusiast or not. A visit to Ypres is such an educational and thought-provoking trip, and I really do think that every type of traveller can take something away from a visit here.

Even without the war and battlefield tourism, Ypres is a stunning Belgian town with beautiful surroundings, making it more than worthy of a spot on your Belgium itinerary.

How Many Days Should I Spend in Ypres?

If you’re planning a visit to Ypres I recommend spending a minimum of two days (although three would be better) to get through all the amazing things to do here. 

You’ll only need one full day in the city of Ypres itself, but if you want to explore the war cemeteries, trenches and museums of the Ypres salient, allow one or two more days. One to get a flavour, and two to do and see absolutely everything.

Best Time to Visit Ypres

The great thing about visiting Ypres is that all the tourist attractions stay open all year round – despite its tourism being very seasonal.

That means, if you’re wanting to travel on a budget, you can get some great deals on hotels, tours and even restaurants in winter.

The tourism season in Ypres runs from around May until late September. However, I actually think autumn would be the best time to visit Ypres.

Not only will the temperatures and weather not be too bad yet, but it means the summer crowds will have disappeared. You’ll get the good deals and quiet tourist attractions of winter, but without the awful weather.

I visited Ypres in early March, which admittedly wasn’t a great time to go. It rained hard for our entire first day in the city (and actually for most of our 5 days in Belgium!), and it was pretty cold. 

On our second day, we were very lucky to get lovely clear blue skies, but if you can choose from any time of year to visit Ypres, I wouldn’t choose winter. It’s too risky!

Where to Stay in Ypres

Ypres is still very traditional, and as a result the boutique hotel scene hasn’t really arrived here yet. For this reason, if you’re looking for somewhere to stay in Ypres, you’re pretty much limited to chain hotels.

The good news, though, is that tourism to Ypres is incredibly seasonal, and outside of May-September you can get some insanely good hotel deals here.

My boyfriend and I visited Ypres in February, and our hotel stay in Ypres cost approximately half what we had been paying in other Belgian cities. And we got a free upgrade!

We stayed at this afforable hotel and only have good things to say about it! Its location was fabulous, as it was just a minutes’ walk away from Market Square. Plus, our upgraded room was massive, the bed was super comfy, and everything was spotless. 

The only issue was that it cost an extortionate additional fee to add breakfast to our stay, which we just chose not to pay.

The Novotel Ieper Centrum is hardly going to be a hotel you’ll remember forever, but it’s practical and very affordable – and that was perfectly fine by us!

Click here to check latest prices & availability

Best Restaurants in Ypres, Belgium

Ypres hardly has a thriving culinary scene. It’s a tiny city, so you don’t really have much choice! There are definitely a few solid options if you’re looking to eat at a restaurant whilst in Ypres, though:

In ‘t Klein Stadhuis – Traditional Belgian food with an impressive range of Belgian Beers. We ate here and I definitely recommend their Flemish Stew. It’s super heavy but super delicious!

Ypresburger – A popular and very affordable fast food restaurant with countless different burgers on the menu and great reviews.

Captain Cook – Italian/Belgian restaurant with a large selection of pizzas and plenty of vegetarian and vegan dishes.

I hope this post has inspired you to book a trip to Ypres – you definitely should! it’s one of the best cities to visit in Belgium , and there are so many interesting things to do and see here!

I had so much fun writing this post of the best things to do in Ypres that I’m desperate to book my second trip there now!

Liked this post? Pin it!

Ella Moore is the founder of Many More Maps. Growing up just 45 minutes away from Liverpool, Ella has spent years exploring the city inside out. In her teenage years, she was introduced to the music of The Beatles, and the rest, they say, is history! Today, she stands as a leading authority on Beatles tourism in Liverpool, helping over 40,000 people a month to plan their dream trip to the city.

You May Also Like

Bruges Day Trip: A Magical Itinerary for One Day In Bruges (2024)

• August 1, 2023

12 Best Cities to Visit in Belgium (+Hidden Gems!)

• January 19, 2022

Ghent in One Day: The Perfect Itinerary You’ll Want to Steal!

• December 31, 2020

Attending the Last Post Ceremony at the Menin Gate – The Complete Guide

• April 30, 2020

Input your search keywords and press Enter.

Ypres: A Guide to Unforgettable Experiences

Ypres, a charming city located in Belgium’s West Flanders province, is a must-visit destination for history buffs and travelers alike. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and an array of attractions, this city has something for everyone. Join us as we explore the top 10 things to do in Ypres, from World War I remembrance sites to culinary delights and hidden gems.

Short Summary

Explore Ypres’ history with attractions like the Cloth Hall, Belfry Tower & Old Town Hall.

Pay tribute to WWI soldiers at Menin Gate Memorial or Tyne Cot Cemetery.

Enjoy cultural and historical museums, religious landmarks, scenic walks & culinary delights!

Table of Contents

Exploring the Historic Grote Markt

The heart of Ypres lies in its historic Grote Markt, a long, wide cobblestoned street and square right in the middle of the city. This bustling area is home to the Cloth Hall, one of the biggest gothic civilian complexes in Europe, the eye-catching Belfry Tower, and the 16th-century Old Town Hall.

As you stroll along the Grote Markt, you’ll be surrounded by history, with many buildings reconstructed after the extensive destruction of World War I.

The iconic Cloth Hall , originally built in 1260, served as the city’s most important building, acting as both a warehouse and marketplace. Unfortunately, it was completely destroyed in World War I, but the new structure stands as one of the largest and grandest secular buildings in Europe.

Today, the Cloth Hall houses museums and offers guided tours about the First World War. Don’t miss the Last Post ceremony, a daily tribute to commemorate the events of the war.

Belfry Tower

The Belfry Tower, part of the Lakenhalle complex, is a historic bell tower built in 1201. It offers an amazing view of the Flanders Plain, allowing you to gaze over the region’s picturesque landscape.

From June to October, the carillon of 49 bells chimes at 9 pm, adding a touch of enchantment to your visit.

Old Town Hall

The Old Town Hall, located in the Grote Markt, is a 16th-century building that once housed the In Flanders Fields Museum. Although not as grand as the Cloth Hall, it’s an essential part of Ypres’ architectural history and worth a brief visit.

World War I Remembrance Sites

Ypres and the surrounding areas, known collectively as the Ypres Salient, were the sites of some of the most significant battles of World War I. Today, the city is home to several poignant WWI remembrance sites, such as the Menin Gate Memorial, Tyne Cot Cemetery, and Passchendaele Museum.

These sites provide an opportunity to pay your respects and remember the sacrifices made by soldiers during the war.

Menin Gate Memorial

The Menin Gate Memorial is a tribute to all the Allied soldiers who lost their lives in the Ypres Salient during World War I. Specifically, it commemorates the 54,389 among them who never received a known grave. Every night at 8 pm, the Last Post ceremony takes place under the eastern bow of the gate. This daily tribute has been ongoing since 1928 and serves as a powerful reminder of the human cost of war.

Make sure to arrive early for a good spot to witness this moving ceremony.

Tyne Cot Cemetery

Tyne Cot Cemetery is the largest British war cemetery in Flanders. It has almost 12,000 war graves and a memorial to 35,000 soldiers who were missing after August 16, 1917. The cemetery offers a sobering reminder of the immense loss during the war, and the 34,957 names on the wall of the monument represent British and New Zealand soldiers who went missing during that time.

Visiting the cemetery is a powerful experience, and the sheer scale of the memorial is a testament to the human cost of the war. The cemetery is a reminder of the courage and sacrifice of those who fought and died in the conflict, and a reminder of the need for a cemetery.

Passchendaele Museum

The Passchendaele Museum , located in the village of Zonnebeke, offers an in-depth look at the Battle of Passchendaele and the war in the Ypres Salient. With exhibits on trench warfare, military history, and the aftermath of the war, this museum provides a comprehensive understanding of the conflict.

Many visitors consider it even better than the In Flanders Fields Museum in Ypres.

Cultural and Historical Museums

Ypres boasts an impressive array of museums that showcase the city’s rich history and culture. Delve into the past by visiting the In Flanders Fields Museum, which focuses on the battles of World War I in and around Ypres.

The Yper Museum covers 11 centuries of Ypres’ history, and the lesser-known Merghelynck Museum.

In Flanders Fields Museum

Located in the Cloth Hall, the In Flanders Fields Museum offers an immersive experience of World War I, with exhibits that highlight the personal stories of soldiers who fought in the Ypres Salient.

The museum also features century-old aerial footage showing the destruction from the war, allowing visitors to gain a better understanding of the conflict’s impact.

Yper Museum

The Yper Museum , housed in the same building as the In Flanders Fields Museum, provides a broader historical perspective on Ypres. With artifacts and art from Belgium and Northern France, this museum showcases the city’s past beyond the context of World War I.

It’s also kid-friendly, making it a great stop for families.

Merghelynck Museum

The lesser-known Merghelynck Museum, once the home of Frans Merghelynck, the treasurer for Empress Maria Theresia, is a hidden gem worth exploring. Although smaller than other museums in the city, it offers a glimpse into the lives of Ypres’ nobility and their intriguing history.

Religious Landmarks

Ypres is home to several religious landmarks that showcase the city’s spiritual heritage. Take a moment to visit St George’s Memorial Church, a tribute to British soldiers who perished in World War I. The Gothic Sint-Maartenskerk is one of the oldest churches in the city, and the 16th-century Belle Almshouse Chapel is also worth a visit.

St George’s Memorial Church

Built in 1927, St George’s Memorial Church serves as a memorial to the British soldiers who lost their lives in World War I. Inside, you’ll find objects and plaques given in memory of those who died in battle.

Located near the Grote Markt, this church is a humbling reminder of the sacrifices made during the war.

Sint-Maartenskerk

Sint-Maartenskerk, a Gothic church in the center of Ypres, dates back to the 13th century. Its tower stands over 100 meters tall, making it a prominent landmark in the city.

Inside the church, you’ll find a brass font, the picture of Onze-Lieve-Vrouw-van Thuyne, and the tombs of notable figures, such as Bishop Jansenius and Count Robrecht of Bethune.

Belle Almshouse Chapel

The Belle Almshouse Chapel, built in the 16th century, is one of the oldest buildings in Ypres. Once part of a larger complex that included a hospital and cloister, this chapel now stands as a testament to Ypres’ religious past.

Its beautiful interior features a high vaulted ceiling, stained glass windows, and a large organ, making it a peaceful spot to visit.

Scenic Walks Around Ypres

Ypres offers several scenic walks for visitors to explore the city and its surroundings at a leisurely pace. Enjoy the beauty of the Vauban Ramparts, built by military engineer Vauban, take a self-guided City Walk tour, or explore the historic Fortifications of Rijselpoort.

Each walk provides a unique perspective on the city’s history and charm.

Vauban Ramparts

The Vauban Ramparts, built in the late 17th century, are impressive fortifications that encircle the old downtown of Ypres. Walking along these walls provides a glimpse into the city’s past, while offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city center.

The ramparts also give you the opportunity to explore the beautiful green spaces that surround them.

The City Walk in Ypres is a self-guided tour that takes you around all the historic sites and attractions of the city. With a City Walk brochure, available at the local tourist office or online for €3, you’ll be able to navigate the city with ease and discover the fascinating history of Ypres at your own pace.

The brochure includes a map of the city, a list of all the sites and attractions, and a brief description of each one. It also includes a list of recommended restaurants and cafes, as well as a list of recommended restaurants and cafes.

Fortifications of Rijselpoort

The Fortifications of Rijselpoort, a series of 17th-century fortifications built by the Dutch, are another hidden gem in Ypres. Exploring these historic structures gives you a sense of the city’s strategic importance throughout history and offers a unique perspective on the role of Ypres in various conflicts.

Culinary Delights

Ypres is known for its delicious culinary offerings, ranging from traditional Flemish dishes to mouthwatering pastries and chocolates. Treat yourself to a meal at De Ruyffelaer, indulge in freshly baked goods at Henk Bakery, or sample some of Belgium’s finest chocolates at Leonidas Chocolaterie.

De Ruyffelaer

https://youtu.be/Du1gPi27o-g

Located on Gustave de Stuersstraat, De Ruyffelaer is a must-visit restaurant for those looking to sample authentic Flemish cuisine. With meals ranging from €15 to €35, this popular eatery offers a diverse menu that showcases the flavors of the region.

Be sure to try some of their local specialties for a true taste of Ypres.

Henk Bakery

Situated in the Grote Markt, Henk Bakery, also known as Bakkerij Henk, offers a wide array of fresh breads and scrumptious pastries. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a sweet treat to enjoy with your coffee, this bakery is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Leonidas Chocolaterie

For chocolate lovers, a

visit to Ypres wouldn’t be complete without stopping by Leonidas Chocolaterie. Located in the Grote Markt, this Belgian chocolate shop is renowned for its top-quality chocolates made with 100% pure cocoa butter.

With a vast selection of truffles, pralines, and bars, you’ll be spoiled for choice at this sweet spot.

Brewery Tours and Tastings

Ypres is also home to some fantastic brewery experiences, where you can tour and taste a variety of beers. Visit the historic Kazematten Brewery or enjoy a wide selection of brews at Kaffe Bazaar.

Both spots offer unique insights into the city’s brewing history and craft beer culture.

Kazematten Brewery

Kazematten Brewery , located under the old ramparts of Ypres, has a fascinating history dating back to 1845. During World War I, British soldiers used the spaces where the brewery now stands to print their morale-boosting paper, The Wipers Times.

Today, the brewery offers tours and tastings, with three beers – Blond, Dubbel, and Tripel – available for sampling. Tours cost €10 per adult and are available every Saturday from 3 to 5 pm.

Kaffe Bazaar

For a more laid-back brewery experience, head to Kaffe Bazaar in Ypres. This cozy bar boasts over 30 Belgian beers and 50 spirits, making it the perfect spot for beer enthusiasts to sample a diverse array of brews.

With a relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff, Kaffe Bazaar is a great place to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

Family Fun at Bellewaerde

For a fun-filled day with the family, visit Bellewaerde, the oldest theme park in Belgium . With a variety of attractions, including roller coasters, gardens, and a 4D cinema, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

The Bellewaderde park ‘s friendly atmosphere and exciting rides make it an ideal destination for families visiting Ypres.

Hidden Gems in Ypres

Apart from its well-known attractions, Ypres also offers some hidden gems for those seeking lesser-known sights. Discover The Brooding Soldier Monument, a Canadian war memorial, and the Dancing Balloons Amusement Park Ride for unique experiences that many visitors might overlook.

The Brooding Soldier Monument

Located in the village of Saint-Julien, Langemark, the Brooding Soldier Monument is a touching tribute to the Canadian soldiers who perished in the first gas attack of the Second Battle of Ypres. Standing 11 meters tall, the monument features the bowed head and shoulders of a Canadian soldier with folded hands resting on arms reversed.

Take a moment to reflect on the sacrifices made during the war while visiting this poignant memorial.

Dancing Balloons Amusement Park Ride

For a fun and unique experience, check out the Dancing Balloons Amusement Park Ride at Bellewaerde Park. This whimsical ride features giant balloons that dance and float around the stadium, offering a delightful spectacle for visitors of all ages.

It’s a hidden gem and a great way to make lasting memories during your visit to Ypres.

In conclusion, Ypres is a city steeped in history, culture, and charm. From its World War I remembrance sites and fascinating museums to its beautiful religious landmarks and culinary delights, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this captivating city. Whether you’re exploring the historic Grote Markt, walking along the Vauban Ramparts, or indulging in Belgian chocolates, Ypres offers a wealth of experiences that will leave you with lasting memories. So why not plan your visit to Ypres in 2023 and discover all that this remarkable city has to offer?

Frequently Asked Questions

What is ypres best known for.

Ypres is a historic town in Belgium and is best known as the site of three major battles of the First World War – the Second Battle of Ypres in April 1915, the Battle of Passchendaele from July-November 1917 and the Allied liberation of Ypres in 1918.

It is also home to the Menin Gate Memorial, which features the names of 54,389 fallen soldiers who died during the conflict.

What language do they speak in Ypres Belgium?

When it comes to Ypres Belgium, the local language is Flemish. This has been the case since the town’s French name of Ypres was changed to the Flemish name of Ieper when the First World War was declared in August 1914.

What happened in Ypres Belgium?

On April 22nd 1915, German forces launched an attack on the Western Front in Ypres, Belgium. This marked the first ever use of chemical weapons on the battlefield; they released over 150 tons of lethal chlorine gas that impacted two French colonial divisions.

Although the Germans were able to gain ground initially, their gains weren’t exploited and ultimately the battle resulted in a costly stalemate for both sides.

How much of Ypres was destroyed?

Ypres was ravaged beyond recognition during World War I. The whole town centre, which previously stood proudly, was virtually destroyed within the four years of the war. Consequently, there was no one left to occupy the once bustling city and all its inhabitants had either been evacuated or fled.

It’s safe to say that Ypres suffered severely under the impacts of the Great War.

Related Posts

Brussels Landmarks: A Fascinating Journey Through the Heart of Europe

21 Amazing Things to Do in Brussels

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Nederlands ( Dutch )
• Français ( French )

• 14 Stunning Tourist Places to Visit and Things to Do in Helsingborg, Sweden
• 12 Incredible Attractions to See and Things to Do in Saariselkä, Finland
• 21 Sightseeing Places to Visit and Things to Do in Pretoria (Tshwane)
• 21 Amazing Tourist Attractions to See and Things to Do in Cancún, Mexico
• 15 Must-See Attractions and Things to Do in Hay-on-Wye, Wales

14 Wonderful Tourist Attractions to See and Things to Do in Ypres (Ieper), Belgium

Ypres (Ieper) is a city in the West Flanders province of Belgium. Although there are a variety of places to visit in Ypres , Belgium. The city is best known for the World War I sites. It was a major battle centre in the country during the First World War.

Many of the best things to do in Ypres town revolve around the Battles of Ypres between German and Allied Forces. The battles have left back ruins that have now become Ypres tourist attractions . These include army headquarters, bunkers, trenches, battle sites, ruined buildings, shelled lands, and more. There are also quite many things to do near Ypres concerning the war.

However, there is much more to explore when you travel to Ypres. It is a historic town that dates back to the 1st century BCE and beyond. During the Middle Ages, it became a major trade centre known for its Cloth Market. You will come across some of the monuments during Ypres sightseeing that still continue the tradition. This entire market site is included among UNESCO World Heritage sites.

You will also come across other historical monuments built during the Middle Ages. The most prominent among these is the St. Martin’s Cathedral. It is one of the most magnificent things to see in Ypres .

Aside from history, Ypres travel is also includes exploring culture. The city is home to several art museums and galleries. These house ancient, modern, and contemporary artworks. You can also see a collection of royal treasures belonging to Kings and Queens of Belgium when you visit Ypres.

While you are exploring the history and culture, you can also take some time to enjoy the regional cuisines and beverages. There are also many places to visit near Ieper for entertainment. You can go to the amusement parks for games and thrill rides. Or you can explore the wilderness nearby for hiking.

This Blog Post contains affiliate links. If you purchase anything from that link then I may earn a small part of the commission and for that, you do not need to pay any extra amount.

Table of Contents

Top 14 Tourist Places to Visit in Ypres, Belgium

1. menin gate (menenpoort).

This memorial monument is dedicated to the British and Commonwealth soldiers who died in the battle of Ypres Salient during the First World War. The structure is quite imposing. It takes inspiration from old Greek and Italian architecture and is among the most magnificent things to see in Ypres, Belgium.

Although built in 1927, the history of this gate dates back to the 17th century. It served as the gateway to the town of Menen. Hence, the name. You should take a few minutes to admire this monument when you visit Ypres, Belgium.

2. In Flanders Fields Museum

This museum focuses entirely on WWI. The museum is part of the Cloth Hall building, which itself was damaged during the war. It is one of the best places to visit in Ypres if you are interested in military and warfare history.

Rather than glorifying war, the museum shows the harshness of battle. The museum tells the story of the invasion of Belgium and the tragedies that followed.

It is among the best things to do in Ypres, Belgium as it gives you an experiential insight into history. You will need at least an hour to tour this museum.

3. Cloth Hall Ypres (Lakenhalle)

The Cloth Hall used to be among the largest commercial buildings in Europe during medieval times. It was the city’s main market as well as the centre of the region’s cloth industry.

The structure dates back to the 13th century and was built several times over the years. As a result, it bears hallmarks of different ages. Owing to its history and architecture, the Cloth Hall is among the most important Ypres attractions. You will need an hour or so to explore this historical structure.

4. St Martin’s Cathedral (Sint-Maartenskerk)

Dating back to 1230, this church is among the oldest buildings you will come across during Ypres travel. The church was extended during different centuries and was damaged during the First World War.

The structure carries designs, features, stories, and scars from numerous events. There are few other Ypres tourist attractions that have seen as much. The cathedral is also renowned for its architecture and opulent interiors.

The tower of the cathedral is still among the tallest structures in the country. The cathedral is included among the top things to do in Ieper for several reasons. You will need at least an hour to explore the cathedral.

5. Hooge Crater Museum

The Chateau of Hooge served as the headquarters of the British forces. Many of them died when it was bombed by German forces on the 31st of October in 1914. The place is now converted into a museum dedicated to these soldiers and the incidents of the war.

It is among the best historical places to visit near Ypres owing to the events of the war. You will get to see many artifacts and learn about the stories of many soldiers. It takes about an hour to tour this museum.

6. Hooge Crater Commonwealth War Graves Commission Cemetery

This cemetery is the final resting place and pays tribute to the soldiers who lost their lives in the Ypres Salient during WWI. You can visit the cemetery and the museum together. It is important among things to do around Ypres. Take a few minutes to pay your respects to the fallen soldiers.

I suggest you should book a Full-Day Tour of Ypres to See Hooge Crater Cemetery and other attractions.

7. Memorial Museum Passchendaele 1917

This museum focuses on the Battle of Passchendaele of 1917.  It was the third battle of Ypres and cost the lives of more than 500,000 soldiers. This happened only in a span of 100 days for merely 8 km of land.

The museum focuses on the events and stories of the battle. The exhibits include artifacts from the battle, uniforms, memorabilia, documents, photographs, and more. You will need about 2 hours from Ypres sightseeing to tour the museum.

I suggest you should book a Half-Day Tour to Ypres Battlefields to see Memorial Museum Passchendaele 1917 and other attractions.

8. Passchendaele Canadian Memorial

This memorial pays tribute to the Canadian Corps for their role in the Second Battle of Passchendaele during WWI. It is located at Crest Farm. This was the location recaptured by the 4th Canadian Division. This is yet another one of the places to visit around Ypres that gives you great insight into the events of WWI.

9. Yorkshire Trench and Dug Out

The village of Boezinge was another important battleground between Allied and German forces during World War One. This is the trench system that was discovered by an archeologist and has been turned into an open-air museum.

You will get to see the actual ground where the battle was fought and the conditions faced by the soldiers. This is a walking experience of history and one of the best things to do near Ypres town. You will need 2 hours for this tour.

10. Bellewaerde Park & Bellewaerde Aquapark

These amusement parks are the best places to visit in Ypres for fun and entertainment. The Aquapark has all sorts of slides, rides, pools, and games for water activities. It also has a themed obstacle course designed like a fort and a jungle. It has all the top things to do in Ypres town for families.

The Bellewaerde Park on the other hand is an amusement park focused on thrill rides. You can enjoy rollercoasters, rides, obstacle courses, rafting, and more. There are a lot of fun activities to enjoy here and you can easily spend a few hours at any of these parks.

I suggest you should get your Entry Ticket to Bellewarde Park and Bellewarde Aquapark in advance.

11. Kazematten Brewery

This historic brewery is housed in an 18th-century structure that was used to house ammunition during WWI. These bunkers were also behind the foundation of a morale-boosting newspaper called the Wiper Times.

Now you can have a sip of The Wiper Times Beer at this bunker at Kazematten Brewery. It is a historic as well as refreshing attraction that you can enjoy when you visit Ypres.

12. Merghelynck Museum

This museum is housed inside the old house of Frans Merghelynck, the treasurer of Empress Maria Theresia. The exhibits of this museum include many artifacts from the personal collection of Merghelynck.

It also has some of the most wonderful things to see in Ypres from the Royal Collection of Empress Maria, King Louis XV, and King Louis XVI.  You will need about an hour to tour this museum.

13. Grote Markt

This market is the historical as well as the modern heart of the city. It is housed in a 70-meter-tall belfry that you can spot throughout Ypres sightseeing. The structure is greatly admired for its architecture.

You should visit this Ypres attraction twice. Once on a Saturday, when it hosts the market, and once to admire the structure with artistic features. You will need 30 to 45 minutes to tour the place on each visit.

14. Yper Museum

This museum is housed in the Cloth Hall. It is dedicated to the history and culture of the city. In one place you can browse through 11 centuries of the city’s history. It is among the top things to do in Ypres town if you want to know the city.

The museum also has a large model of medieval Ypres. You will get to learn about important events, people, and buildings in the city. The museum also tells you how the city has evolved over the ages. You will need at least an hour from Ypres travel to explore this museum.

If you are looking for more tourist attractions in Ypres, check out the sections below. We have compiled a complete list of places and activities that you can explore in the city and around it.

Things to do in ypres, belgium, monuments, museums & historical places to visit in ypres, belgium.

• In Flanders Fields Museum
• Tyne Cot Cemetery
• Memorial Museum Passchendaele 1917
• Hooge Crater Museum
• Sanctuary Wood Museum
• Yper Museum
• Talbot House
• St. Martin’s Cathedral
• St. Sixtus Abbey
• Merghelinck Museum
• St. George’s Memorial Church
• Langemark Cemetery
• Hooge Crater Cemetery
• Poperinge Hop Museum
• The Canadian Hill 62 Memorial
• Kemmel Command Bunker
• Lijssenthoek Military Cemetery
• National Tabaks Museum
• Passchendaele Canadian Memorial
• Yorkshire Trench and Dug Out
• Musee de la Rubanerie Cominoise
• Vestingroute
• Kasteeldomein Zonnebeke
• Museumhuis Lucien de Gheus
• Lettenberg Bunkers
• The Messines Ridge Memorial to the Missing
• Liverpool Scottish Memorial
• Biscuiterie James Destrooper Museum
• Kasteel du Parc
• Kasteel van Zonnebeke
• Tobacco Museum
• Kasteel Couthof
• Elzenwalle Kasteel
• Kasteel de Warrande
• Old Timer Museum
• St. Jansgodshuis Church
• St. Jacobskerk Church
• The Old Cheese Factory Museum

Nature & Wildlife Tourist Spots in Ypres, Belgium

• Polygon Wood Nature Preserve
• Wandelverhaal
• Dikkebusvijver Lake
• Zillebekevijver Lake
• Gasthuisbossen
• Hellegatbos Nature Preserve
• Leperlee Canal
• Provinciedomein Kemmelberg
• Scherpeberg Nature Preserve
• Palingbeek Wandelroute
• Galgebossen Nature Preserve

Entertainment & Leisure Tourist Spots in Ypres, Belgium

• Bellewaerde Theme Park
• Bellewaerde Aqua Park
• Westvleteren Brewery
• Ice Mountain Adventure Park
• De Zonnegloed Animal Sanctuary
• Bengal Rapid River
• Plugstreet 14-18 Experience
• Pool of Peace
• Outside Adventure Park
• Winjgoed Monteberg Winery
• Island of Ireland Peace Park
• Cordoba Cable Car
• De Oude Kaasmakerij
• Welsh National Memorial Park
• Passchendaele Memorial Gardens
• Burggraaf Frimount Park
• Village on Pilotis

Shopping in Ypres, Belgium

• Grote Market
• Ieper Market Square
• Boterstraat
• Meensestraat
• Rijselstraat

Offbeat Places, Tours, & Adventure in Ypres, Belgium

• Cable Car Ride

Sightseeing in Ypres, Belgium

• The Brooding Soldier Sculpture
• Kosmos Rodeberg
• Coming World Remember Me Sculpture
• St. Julien Canadian Memorial
• Provinciedomein Palingbeek
• R.E. Grave Memorial Park

Food, Dining, Restaurants, & Street Food in Ypres, Belgium

• Kazemaaten Brewery
• De Ruffelaer Ieper
• De Steenen Haene
• Frituur de Leet
• MarktCafe Les Halles
• De Palingbeek
• De Vier Koningen
• Hostellerie Saint Nicholas
• De Fonderie
• De Oude Kaasmakerji

Where to Stay in Ypres?

Here we have listed Top Rated Luxurious, Mid-Range, and Budget Hotels in Ypres. You can check below listed hotels for your perfect stay in Ypres.

Luxurious Hotels

• Novotel Ieper Centrum
• Albion Hotel
• Flanders Lodge
• Main Street Boutique Hotel
• Hotel New Regina
• Bed and Breakfast saBBajon
• B&B Wellness Yoake
• Juliette’s B&B

Mid-Range and Budget Hotels

• Kasteelhof ‘t Hooghe
• Ambrosia Hotel
• Hotel O Ieper
• Alliance Hotel Ieper Centrum
• Hotel Old Tom
• Gasthof ‘t Zweerd
• B&B Het Kapittel
• B&B Laurus

Custom Tours Package in Ypres

How to reach ypres, belgium.

The closest airport to visit Ypres is the Ostend – Bruges airport. It sits about 45 km away from the city. You can also use the airports of Lille, Antwerp and Brussels . These cities offer road connectivity to reach Ypres.

You can get direct trains for Ypres travel from several cities in Belgium. This includes major cities like Brussels and Antwerp. You can also get connecting international trains to visit Ypres from Lille, Amsterdam , and Dusseldorf . The bus network also offers great connectivity within Belgium. You can get direct rides from several cities and towns to reach Ypres.

If you are planning to get to Ypres by road, you should head for routes A16, E40, N8, E17, E403, or N37. These routes will help you get to the city.

There are no direct water routes to visit Ypres.

Image Reference

• Menin Gate (Menenpoort) – Don Barrett / Flickr
• In Flanders Fields Museum – Wouter van der Maden / PixaBay
• Cloth Hall Ypres (Lakenhalle) – Ruben Holthuijsen / Flickr
• St Martin’s Cathedral (Sint-Maartenskerk) – Jez / Flickr
• Hooge Crater Museum – Paul Easton / Flickr
• Hooge Crater Commonwealth War Graves Commission Cemetery – Wernervc / Wikimedia Commons
• Memorial Museum Passchendaele 1917 – Michael Day / Flickr
• Passchendaele Canadian Memorial – LimoWreck / Wikimedia Commons
• Yorkshire Trench and Dug Out – Andrew Nash / Flickr
• Bellewaerde Park & Bellewaerde Aquapark – nl:Rickie97 / Wikimedia Commons
• Kazematten Brewery – Bernt Rostad / Flickr
• Merghelynck Museum – Karmakolle / Wikimedia Commons
• Grote Markt – Andrew Nash / Flickr
• Yper Museum – VladCOBHC / Wikimedia Commons
• 23 Beautiful Tourist Attractions to See and Things to Do in Avignon
• 30 Popular Tourist Attractions to See and Things to Do in Stirling, Scotland

Mustafa Natalwala

Mustafa is a content writer and digital marketing expert at WideWorldTrips.com His mainly interests are into travelling, photography, film-making

You May Also Like

Amazing Tourist Attractions to See and Things to Do in Brussels

Awesome Tourist Places to Visit and Things to Do in Bruges

17 Must-Visit Tourist Attractions and Things to Do in Durbuy, Belgium

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Points of interest

In Flanders Fields Museum

Last Post ceremony

Ypres Tourism

27 wwi memorial sites in flanders fields recognised as unesco world heritage.

Copper Tree Media

Infopoint Ypres

Grote Markt 34 8900  Ieper Belgium +32 57 23 92 20 Send me an e-mail Website

Discover also

Flanders Fields

Share this page on

Ypres, Belgium | In Flanders Fields Museum and The Last Post

ArboursAbroad contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. If you purchase using one of the affiliated links, we may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. See our  Disclosure Policy  for more information. 

Like this post? Share it with others!

A day spent in Flanders Fields wouldn’t be complete without ending it in Ypres (Ieper) for the Last Post. Ypres is a small, traditional town in West Belgium, and is arguably the heart of Flanders Fields.

We visited Ypres strictly to witness the Last Post ceremony, however, we’re so surprised with how cute the town itself was too. I guess we should have imagined it would be that way…we love Belgian towns. The stair-like tops to buildings, pubs with great beer, and Belgian waffles sold off the streets.. who wouldn’t love them?

Traveler’s Tip … When visiting Ypres, park on one of the side streets just outside the city near Menin Gate . Parking is free there, and you get to experience walking through the gate on your way into town!

10 Things To Do In Ypres, Belgium

1. see the menin gate.

The Last Post Ceremony occurs just outside the main square of Ypres, at the Menin Gate . This gate really sets the historic vibe to the town. Simply driving or walking through the gate you can feel the weight of the war with names of fallen soldiers engraved on the walls.

2. Witness The Last Post

Every evening since 1928 the Last Post is sounded to commemorate the soldier’s lives taken in the First World War under the Menin Gate. The ceremony begins at 20:00, though we recommend getting there around 19:30 to secure a spot in the front to really see what’s going on. If you can’t get there early, do at least try in stand under the gate to really feel the Last Post sounding. And please, remember this isn’t just a tourist attraction, it’s a way of remembering the soldiers who gave their lives in the war.

3. Visit The In Flanders Fields Museum

Flanders Fields as a whole is such a moving place to visit. It’s where the frontline of the First World War for Belgium was and is full of so much history. The In Flanders Fields Museum in Ypres is home to exhibitions, personal stories, and artifacts from the war. Even if you don’t go inside the museum, seeing the building itself is lovely.

Traveler’s Tip … If you have a car, we recommend driving through Flanders Fields to really see the war front face to face. You can visit the museum or visitor’s center to understand what it is you’re really seeing while exploring the countryside.

READ MORE | The Dodengang Trench of Death

4. Grab A Traditional Belgium Waffle

One of our all-time favorite parts of Belgium is Belgian waffles. They are absolutely to. die. for… especially when you can find them on the street. When we got to Ypres, we were starving and wanted to grab a quick bite so badly. We smelt waffles in the air (that’s normal, right?!) and followed the scent to the sweetest lady serving them on the side of the road. Holla!! Your trip will not be complete in any Belgium city without finding some street waffles!

Traveler’s Tip … always have some cash on you, so you can buy waffles every dang chance you get! This place was on the road between the Menin Gate and the town center.

5. Wander The Side Streets

We’re firm believers in wandering outside the main tourist attractions to really get a feel and understanding of a place. And it’s no different in small towns verse big ones. The really awesome thing about doing this in Ypres is that all the roads lead to the town center, so you’ll get some really pretty views of the buildings down the streets of both the cathedral and the In Flanders Fields Museum.

6. Enjoy A Belgian Beer In The Center

We typically don’t recommend eating/drinking in the center of cities, as typically this is where prices are jacked up for all the tourism. However, that wasn’t the case in Ypres. After we finished eating a not so great meal down one of the side streets, we walked by a restaurant right in the center, and noticed the prices were actually cheaper than the place we ate! Eat/drink in the center and enjoy all the gorgeous buildings around!

Things To Do Near Ypres, Belgium

1. sanctuary wood.

Just outside of Ypres (Ieper) is Sanctuary Wood , a place of World War One Trenches. Though the name sounds like a nice place, we’ve read that it was anything but that. Unfortunately, we didn’t get the chance to visit this place, though we can only imagine how moving it would be to visit.

2. The Dodengang Trench Of Death

Visiting the Dodengang Trench of Death was one of the most unreal experiences we’ve had to date. It’s a place where you can honestly feel the war and the horrific experiences the soldiers stationed at the trench had.

READ MORE | Dodengang Trench of Death

3. Visit The Tyne Cot Cemetery

The Tyne Cot Cemetery is one of the largest Commonwealth Cemeteries in the world. It’s the resting place of nearly 12,000 soldiers and has a memorial hosting nearly 35,000 names of missing soldiers from the First World War.

READ MORE | Tyne Cot Cemetery

4. Sait Sixtus Abbey

Saint Sixtus Abbey is home to the Westvleteren Trappist Beer. Trappist Beers are beers made by the monks at an abbey, and this is said to be the best Trappist beer in Belgium. Grab a beer and a snack at the brewery.. their homemade cheese and bread is real good too!

Where To Stay When Visting Ypres, Belgium

You can obviously stay in Ypres itself, though it may be a nicer place to just use as a day trip. The closest bigger cities are Bruges and Ghent. Bruges is a huge hotspot for people visiting Belgium, but our all-time favorite city in Belgium is Ghent.

So we definitely recommend staying in Ghent ! It’s only about an hour drive away from Ypres (Ieper), making it close enough for a short day trip into Flanders Fields!

Recommended Gear For Visiting Ypres And Flanders Fields

We always travel with this backpack . It’s comfy, waterproof, and had padding to keep your camera and belongings safe while throwing it in and out of the car visiting places like this!

Camera Set Up

All photos in this post were taken with this camera using mainly this lens , and occasionally this one . You can check out a full list of our camera gear here .

Water Bottle

It’s actually safe to drink the water in Belgium, so just filling this water bottle each time you leave your accommodation will save you some cash! And the best part is, this bottle keeps liquids cold for 24 hours and hot for 6 hours – so your water will stay cold all day, or you could fill it with hot coffee or tea to go!

Heather is the co-founder of Arbours Abroad, and a full time travel writer with over ten years of travel experience across 39 countries. She’s lived in five different countries, and traveled by van in the United Kingdom and Europe for two and a half years.

Heather and her husband currently live in a van with their cat, Georgie, traveling and finding nature escapes all over the western United States while sneaking in trips abroad when they can.

Similar Posts

Planning a Trip to Islay | Scotland’s Whisky Isle

Whisky, whisky, and well, more whisky. This teenie tiny Scottish isle has more than 10 distilleries scattered across the island. Planning our trip to Islay was based around visiting the remaining two distilleries on our Scottish Whisky Tour, and it couldn’t have been a sweeter return visit to Scotland. After two years in Scotland, we…

Visiting The Todra Gorge | Escaping Tourism in Morocco

Visiting the Todra Gorge was the best surprise stop on our trip to Morocco. It’s a place we didn’t expect and now one we recommend everyone to visit! When we booked our trip to Morocco, we had two places we really wanted to see – The Sahara Desert and the Blue City. Since we were…

How to Install Your Camper Van Floor | Insulation + Plywood Subfloor

Oh boy, is this how to install camper van floor post a long time coming. With a full post on van floor insulation and even a camper van flooring mistakes post done, you’d think this would have been done ages ago too. But low and behold, life happens. So here we are, months later, with our…

Biking the Pacific Coast Highway Day 19 | Cycling Mac Kerricher to Van Damme

Starting to feel sad our time on our bikes is nearing an end. After cycling Mac Kerricher to Van Damme, we only have 4 days left of our bike tour, and that’s a hard pill to swallow when you truly grow to love every moment of something in your life! Cycling Mac Kerricher to Van…

Congaree National Park

After leaving Alexandria, we were able to stop and see family before getting to Congaree National Park. We have family over on the east coast in North Carolina so we headed straight for the Atlantic Ocean. Yes..we finally we able to put our feet in the Atlantic.. We made it literally all the way across…

Video Timestamp | St. Andrews Travel Guide

While studying in Scotland, Jay was lucky enough to have a placement in the well-known town of St. Andrews. And man, this place is unreal. It can be quite touristy at times and is chock-full of students during the normal school year, however, if you visit outside of when university is in session, it can…

Jason Arbour

Heather Arbour

To receive the latest updates

Subscribe To Our ‘Every-So-Often’ Newsletter

Travel Guides

All Rights Reserved. Copyright © 2014-2024

Visiting Historic Ypres: Battlefields and Must-See Sights

This page may contain affiliate links, which means that we may earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you.

A guide to the Ypres battlefields and sites you don’t want to miss on your trip!

Located in Southern Belgium near the border with France, Ypres (also known by its Flemish name, Ieper) is probably best known for being the site of some of the most prominent battles of WWI. 

Due to it’s position on the French border, Ypres stood in the way of the planned German campaign to conquer Belgium. This small town is where Allied forces chose to make a stand to halt the German advance, resulting in a drawn-out conflict with tens of thousands of deaths. 

On a visit today, you’ll find WWI cemeteries, battleground sites, trenches, and some excellent WWI museums. 

Besides the WWI historic sites, Ypres is also a charming city that is lovely to visit in its own right. Located on the front line of the war, the city was completely destroyed during WWI. However, after the war the city was rebuilt in the original medieval and renaissance style. Today you can walk down charming cobblestone streets that look much as they did before the war. 

Ypres was a last-minute addition to our itinerary on our trip to Belgium, and we were so glad that we chose to fit it in! We love history and visiting the battlefields and museums of Ypres was a truly fascinating and sobering experience. 

There are a lot of amazing sights that you don’t want to miss while you’re in Ypres. In this post we’ll share the highlights so that you can plan an amazing trip! Read on for information about the Ypres battlefields, memorials and cemeteries, and other significant points of interest.

Ypres Battlefields

The Ypres battlefields are some of the most memorable and moving locations to visit on a trip to the region.

The area is often referred to as Ypres Salient, a salient being a military term used to describe an area that protrudes into enemy territory, leaving troops surrounded by the enemy on three sides. As the location of the Western front for much of the war, Ypres was a place of intense fighting and mass casualties during WWI. 

As such, in this area you can still find many battlefields that are remnants of the brutal war that took place near this small town. 

Yorkshire Trench and Dugout

The Yorkshire Trench is a preserved section of the British trenches located near Ypres. This site was only rediscovered within the past 30 years. A group of amateur archeologists, referred to as “The Diggers” unearthed the dugout, an underground shelter that served as a military headquarters during the war. There were staircases leading down to the dugout, which was over 30 feet deep and included 11 side rooms. 

You can’t enter the dugout today, as it’s filled with water and not open to visitors. However, you can walk along the trenches and see the entrance to the dugout while you read the interesting placards detailing the history of the location. 

The Yorkshire Trench is not the most complete or best preserved of the trenches, but it has a fascinating history and is well worth a visit if you are in the area. 

It is located next to an industrial site and can be easy to miss as you’re driving through the area. There is no cost for visiting these trenches.

Sanctuary Wood (Hill 62)

As one of the best-preserved systems of trenches from WWI, Sanctuary Wood (also referred to as Hill 62) is a place you absolutely must visit while in Ypres. 

The trenches located here are part of the former British trench system that marked the front line for four years of the war.

While most of the other trenches in the area were covered and converted back to farmland after the war, this section was largely left undisturbed when the owners returned to their land. In this quiet wood you can find trenches, tunnels, and earth still pockmarked by artillery fire. 

It’s a solemn place to visit, one where you can clearly visualize the gritty reality and terrors associated with trench warfare. There’s something about actually walking through the trenches that gives you a new perspective on a war that previously perhaps felt more distanced. 

While we were there we had the whole place to ourselves and were able to take our time to explore the woods in peace. 

Also located at this location is a small museum, which contains artifacts from the war, including weapons, uniforms, and daily use items.

There’s also a room which is full of stereoscopic viewers to view a wide array of old photos from the war that were taken on the front line. These rare photos showed clearly the brutality and destruction of the war as well as the realities of everyday life in the trenches. The pictures were extremely riveting and we found it hard to pull ourselves away from the displays. Be aware that many of the photos are quite graphic, so be mindful if you are visiting with children.

This is privately owned land and purchase of a ticket is required to access the museum and the trenches. We found experience to be well worth the cost of admission.

If you’re only visiting one of the Ypres battlefields, this is a great choice.

Another of the Ypres battlefields, Hill 60 is an elevated ridge that changed hands between the Germans and Allies many times during the war, with incredible loss of life. This strategically significant hill provided unobstructed views of the area, making it the focus of many campaigns.

Today the evidence of the war has been largely erased by time. However, you can still see the massive craters that are the result of mines set off at various times during the war by both sides. One of the most significant craters was formed at the start of the Battle of Messines when the British detonated mines in tunnels dug underneath the German position, creating an enormous crater and taking the lives of thousands of German soldiers. 

This entire area is considered a mass grave to the many soldiers who were buried in this hill and should be treated with respect and reverence.

At the site you can also see the remains of a pillbox and several bunkers, one of which has been mostly preserved. 

There are information displays at the site, but it’s worth it to read up on the history of the area before going so that you can have a good understanding of what happened at this historical site. 

Cemeteries and Memorials

Due to the sheer number of battles in the area, there are many, many memorials and cemeteries located in the region. We can’t possibly cover all of them, so we’ll list just a few of significance, although all are worth visiting. 

Essex Farm Cemetery and Dressing Station

In this cemetery you will find the graves of 1,185 soldiers killed during the war. One of the graves marks the resting place of a 15 year old boy, one of the youngest soldiers to die in the war. Behind the cemetery is the 49th Division Memorial. 

The cemetery grounds are beautifully kept and it’s a lovely place for quiet reflection. 

Next to the cemetery are concrete bunkers which were used as a dressing station. It was in one of these bunkers that John McCrae, a Canadian military doctor, penned his famous poem “In Flanders Field”. 

McCrae wrote the poem in May of 1915 after fighting in the Second Battle of Ypres, which he described as a “nightmare”. The day before he wrote the poem he had buried a close friend who had died in the battle. His reference to poppies in the poem led to the flower becoming a widely recognized symbol of WWI.

Menin Gate and Last Post

Menin Gate is one of the four memorials to the missing in Ypres Salient, dedicated to the soldiers who lost their lives but whose bodies were never found. This memorial is specifically dedicated to the British and Commonwealth soldiers who fought in the area, and inscribed on the memorial are the names of over 50,000 soldiers with unknown graves. 

The Menin Gate is a massive arch spanning one of the main roads leading out of town. It symbolically represents a gateway for the hundreds of thousands of soldiers who passed that way on their way to the war, many never to return.

Every evening at 8 pm, traffic is halted and crowds gather to hear a group of buglers play the Last Post under the Menin Gate. This is a way to remember the fallen and pay tribute to their ultimate sacrifice.

The Last Post ceremony also typically involves a minute of silent remembrance, the Exhortation, the laying of wreaths, the Lament, and reveille. The whole ceremony is usually finished in about 15 or 20 minutes. 

You can attend the ceremony free of charge, but you’ll want to arrive early to get a spot where you can see the proceedings. In the summer the crowds can swell to as many as 1,000 people, so plan on being there well in advance if you want to be able to see anything. 

We were there 15 minutes early and the mass of crowds made it impossible for a short person such as myself to see. It was still a meaningful and moving experience, but if I were to go again I would plan on being there at least an hour in advance to secure a spot up front. 

Tyne Cot Memorial and Cemetery

Tyne Cot Memorial is another of the four memorials to the missing in the Flanders region. On this memorial you can find the names of 35,000 soldiers with unknown graves. 

Next to the memorial is the beautiful and somber Tyne Cot Cemetery.

In the Tyne Cot Cemetery, 11,961 soldiers are buried, making it the largest Commonwealth war cemetery in the world. Also in the cemetery you can see the Cross of Sacrifice and several pillboxes left over from the war. 

Like the other cemeteries in the area, the grounds are meticulously kept. The sheer number of tombstones is quite a sight to behold and really puts into perspective the tragedy of the war. 

Saint Julien Memorial (Brooding Soldier)

The Saint Julien Memorial, also known as the Brooding Soldier, is a memorial to the Canadian First Division. This courageous group of soldiers fought during the Second Battle of Ypres and faced the first attacks using poisonous gas in WWI. Two thousand of the Canadian soldiers died during the attack and were buried there.

The impressive granite statue stands 36 feet tall, a tribute to the lives of those brave soldiers. This memorial and garden is a nice place to spend a few quiet moments as you ponder on the heavy toll of the war. 

While you’re in Ypres, make sure to set aside some time to visit the informative museums to get a background of the war and the history of the city itself. 

In Flanders Field Museum

The largest WWI museum in Belgium, In Flanders Field Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in history (which hopefully you are if you’re visiting Ypres!). A visit to the museum is a great way to start your trip to Ypres, as it provides meaningful context for the other significant sites in the area. 

Located in the historic Cloth Hall, the museum provides a comprehensive look at the war in the Flanders region, from the details of the campaigns to the everyday lives of the soldiers to the impact on the locals who were displaced. 

I especially loved the video displays of actors dressed in period clothing reading excerpts from the journals of Allied and German soldiers. It felt like you were hearing first-hand from the soldiers about their experiences in the field.

The museum is riveting, and you’ll want to plan at least two to three hours to make your way through all the exhibits. 

I highly recommend getting the audio tour, as it provides additional details to supplement what you see in the informational placards. It’s an extra charge, but well worth the cost in my opinion.

Climb the Belfry

Halfway through the In Flanders Field Museum, you’ll find the entrance to the belfry. It’s an additional charge of €2 to climb the belfry, which you will pay when you purchase your ticket for the museum. 

It’s a great way to break up your time in the museum and if you can make it up the 300 steps, at the top you have stunning views of Ypres and the surrounding area. The stairs get quite steep at the top, so beware if you’re scared of heights. 

After learning more about the war in the museum, it feels significant to look out over the landscape and think of the destruction which razed the entire city to the ground during the war.

Yper Museum

The Ypres Museum is not focused on WWI, but instead gives a history of Ypres itself. This museum is the perfect break from the heavier war museums and is a wonderful place to visit with children. 

The museum is located in the same building as the In Flanders Field Museum. When you enter, you are given a wristband that allows you to interact with displays and play games. 

Children have specific bands that allow them to accumulate points and win a prize at the end (the staff said they are very lenient and will provide a prize either way).

The museum provides details about the history and customs of Ypres throughout the ages in an engaging and often humorous way.

You can purchase a combination ticket for both the Yper Museum and the In Flanders Field Museum for a discounted rate. 

Passchendaele Museum

The Passchendaele Museum is located about a 12 minute drive from the city center. This interactive museum details the history of the war in Ypres, with a particular focus on the Third Battle of Ypres, also called the Battle of Passchendaele. 

Known as one of the bloodiest battles in WWI, over the course of the Battle of Passchendaele nearly 600,000 soldiers died for a gain of less than five miles. 

If you’re going to pick only one museum to visit in Ypres, this should be it, especially if you’re traveling with children. This museum brings the war to life through videos, artifacts, and immersive experiences. 

One of the best parts is the opportunity to walk through a life-size replica of a dugout, which really allows you to feel what it must have been like for soldiers living in those conditions. There are also reconstructed trenches that you can walk through, which show the progression of trench construction throughout the war and the differences between the Allied and German trenches.

There’s a special audio tour just for children which provides them with age-appropriate materials and fun tasks to accomplish within the museum.

Plan to spend an hour and a half to two hours for the museum, plus extra time to explore the memorial gardens outside.

Other significant sights and things to do

In addition to the Ypres battlefields and WWI sites, Ypres itself, with its cobblestone streets and charming architecture, is a lovely place to spend some time. Make sure you take some time to wander the Grote Markt and grab a bite to eat at one of the eateries lining the square.

Saint Martin’s Cathedral

Standing at 335 feet, this imposing cathedral is one of the tallest buildings in Belgium. 

The church was originally built in the 12 and 13th centuries, but was completely destroyed during WWI, like much of the rest of the city. 

After the war, the cathedral was rebuilt to look exactly like the original building, with the only change being to make the spire taller.

The church is located in the city center next to the In Flanders Field Museum. It’s worth the time to spend a few minutes inside admiring the gothic architecture, stained glass windows, and towering ceilings. 

Indulge in some chocolate

And of course, since you’re in Belgium you should probably stop for some chocolate while you’re there. 

We tried several of the chocolate shops near the center square and I had some of my favorite chocolate of the trip from a small chocolaterie we found there called Vandaele. The chocolate was delicious and the owner was very friendly and helpful.  

Common Questions

How to get to ypres.

Unlike many of the main cities in Belgium, Ypres is not a place that is particularly easy to explore using public transportation. Although there is a bus system, the buses aren’t very convenient for visiting the war sites. 

One of the best ways to get around Ypres is to rent a car . We rented a car from Bruges and drove from there to Ypres. With our own car we were able to get around easily and follow our own schedule. We found the rural roads to be easy to navigate, despite it being our first time driving in Belgium (getting out of busy Bruges was a bit more stressful, but manageable). 

The other option is to join a tour group . You can set up a tour in Ypres or join a day trip tour from Bruges. I would recommend trying to spend the night in Ypres if possible, given that there is so much to see in the area. 

Where to stay in Ypres

If you’re looking for a conveniently-located and reasonably priced hotel in Ypres, consider Novotel. This hotel is located right in central Ypres, only a two minute walk from the city center. It’s also a four minute walk from Menin Gate, making it a perfect place to stay if you want to attend the Last Post ceremony.

We enjoyed our stay at Novotel, especially the central location and friendly staff.

Note that there is free overnight parking down the street in front of the church.

How long should I spend in Ypres?

In order to see the best of what Ypres has to offer, plan on spending at least two days in the city.

While Ypres is commonly visited as a day trip, one day really is not enough time to see the main historic sites in the area, especially if you’re planning on visiting some of the museums (which you should definitely do, as they are excellent).

Another compelling reason to stay overnight in the area is so that you can easily attend the Last Post, which starts at 8 pm each night. It’s much more convenient to attend the bugle ceremony if you have a hotel nearby instead of having to make the trip back to Bruges or on to another destination.

Is Ypres worth visiting?

So now to the real question: is Ypres actually worth visiting? Our answer to that would be a resounding yes! Ypres is definitely worth the trip, especially for history enthusiasts. As the site of some of the most significant battles of WWI, the area is steeped in a rich and meaningful history. 

From the fascinating museums to the somber Ypres battlefields to the charming and historic city itself, there is so much to see and do while visiting Ypres. 

We were so glad that we decided to add this small but influential town to our itinerary and hope to be able to come back to visit again in the future. 

If you’re planning on visiting Belgium, be sure to include a trip to historic Ypres. You won’t be disappointed!

Other posts you might be interested in:

A Magical Weekend in Bruges (The Perfect 2 Day Itinerary)

A Perfect Itinerary for One Day in Ghent

Related Posts:

• Route planner

The Top 20 Attractions around Ypres

Plan. Save. Navigate. Your best adventures await.

Start today with a free komoot account.

Hellegatbos

Hiking Highlight

On the hillside of the Rodeberg is the ominous sounding Hellegatbos of just over 45 hectares. This area is recommended for a brisk walk. Don't be misled by its name: … read more

Mont Noir (West)

Road Cycling Highlight

To get to the Zwarteberg, make a short detour over the Belgian-French border. Although the mountain is beyond the border, it has been part of the Gent-Wevelgem route several times. … read more

Sign Up To Discover Places Like This

Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.

At 156 meters, the Kemmelberg is the highest point in the province. At the top is the Belvédère Tower: a tourist lookout tower from which you can enjoy a great … read more

Lakenhalle - Ieper

Bike Touring Highlight

Ypres is a fantastic city to visit for a few days. Small, but there is so much to see in the area.

Point de vue du Mont des Cats

Superb icon of Flanders and local culture. A good place to take a break and enjoy the view.

Popular around Ypres

Road Cycling Collection by komoot

Bike Touring Collection by komoot

Running Collection by komoot

Mountain Biking Collection by komoot

Explore the most popular Tours around Ypres

Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:

• Langemark - Poelkapelle
• Provinciaal Domein De Palingbeek
• Polygonebos
• Slagveld Passendale

• Ypres 5 Best World War...

The Top World War I Sites in Ypres, Belgium

The story of Ypres, located directly on Germany’s path to France, is one of conflict and loss, and it’s sure to provoke thoughtfulness and curiosity in all who visit. Read Culture Trip’s guide to the most historical spots to visit in Ypres, Belgium .

1. sanctuary wood, hill 62, 2. menin gate.

Memorial, Building, Cemetery

3. In Flanders Fields Museum

Become a Culture Tripper!

Sign up to our newsletter to save up to $800 on our unique trips..

See privacy policy .

4. Tyne Cot Cemetery

Cemetery, Memorial

5. Langemark Cemetery

It’s worthwhile to have a look at the difference between British and German burial grounds, so trekking over to Langemark Cemetery is a must. Smaller in scale and modest in nature, Langemark nonetheless houses more than 44,000 fallen soldiers. The cemetery is not as personalised as Tyne Cot, and this shows through the mass burial sites that it contains. It should also be noted that Langemark includes the remains of not only soldiers, but also schoolchildren.

Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.

Our immersive trips , led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.

Culture Trip Spring Sale

Save up to $1,656 on our unique small-group trips limited spots..

• Post ID: 420717
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

9 Must-Visit World War I Sites In Flanders

Sharon Odegaard

• Activities and Interests
• Destinations
• History and Culture

Flanders Fields and the town of Ypres in Belgium will always be associated with the events of World War I. For more than four years, battle after battle raged in this area. Today, you can tour Flanders Fields and visit many World War I sites within just a few miles of Ypres.

Before you go, you will want to know at least a little about the war in Flanders. In August of 1914, at the war’s beginning, the Germans invaded Belgium on their way to France. The Germans also wanted to capture and use Belgian ports like Antwerp. At Ypres, the German advance was stopped by soldiers from Belgium, Britain, and France. In the winter, the armies dug in, building trenches they would occupy for years. The few miles of land in Flanders changed hands over and over, and little headway was made by either side. Many died in the fighting and in the mud of the Ypres Salient. Disease ravaged the armies, and poison gas, first used by the Germans in 1915, added another layer of gruesome injury and death.

Today, Flanders Fields is peaceful farmland, but it is also full of cemeteries and memorials. Even now, more than 100 years after the war’s end, unexploded artillery sometimes comes up during plowing. And soldiers long buried in the land are still being found and returned to their families.

Here are nine memorable World War I sites you can see in one day in or near Ypres. They can be seen in any order. You can visit Ypres and the Menin Gate in the daytime, and then return for dinner and the Last Post, for example. If you stay longer than a day, you can also visit places farther out.

The small town of Ypres is central to Flanders Fields. During World War I, Ypres was located within a few miles from the front as the fighting stagnated. Four major battles raged here in the Ypres Salient. Much of the town was destroyed.

A visit to Ypres is a must if you are touring Flanders Fields. You can eat here, shop here, stay in a nice hotel, and enjoy the town’s charming architecture without learning about any of its history. But once you discover what happened here during the war, you will see the area in a whole new light.

Since the war, the town’s buildings have been reconstructed in their original medieval style. Cloth Hall occupies the center of town. You can’t miss this tall, colorful building decorated with spires. Inside, you’ll find tourist information and a visitor center. The Yper Museum is here, offering interactive exhibits that cover 1,000 years of area history.

Another section of Cloth Hall houses the In Flanders Fields Museum , with its wealth of information about World War I in Flanders. You’ll see photos showing parts of Belgium that were totally destroyed during the conflict. One of the exhibits, Reconstructing Flanders Fields , is billed as “an ode to the resilience of forgotten men and women who cleared rubble and rebuilt their country after the First World War.”

Pro Tip: If you are in town for lunch or dinner, choose a patio table at De Trompet on the Market Square, next door to Cloth Hall. You’ll get a front-row seat to life in the busy town, and the salads and fish are delicious.

2. Menin Gate And The Last Post

At the entrance to Ypres is the Menin Gate , a beautiful war memorial to the British troops who died here during World War I. Names line the walls — more than 54,000 of them. These soldiers remain lost in the fields more than 100 years later. They hailed from Australia, Canada, India, South Africa, and the United Kingdom.

The gate, which existed before the war, was chosen for a memorial because hundreds of thousands of men passed through it on their way to the nearby battlefields.

Often, as farmers plow the fields and construction projects begin, the bodies of these soldiers are found. If a body is identified, the soldier is given a proper burial in a cemetery, and the name is then removed from this wall of the missing.

If possible, plan your time in Flanders Fields so that you can attend the Last Post under the arches of the Menin Gate. This ceremony takes place every evening at 8 p.m. The tradition started in 1928 and has continued every evening except during the time when the Germans occupied the town in World War II. Buglers from the Fire Brigade play, and families carry flags to honor the dead.

The Last Post bugle call is a song played by the British Army to mark the end of the day’s labors. At the Menin Gate, the music represents a final farewell to the fallen and signals their eternal rest. This ceremony of remembrance of those lost is short, but incredibly moving. The large crowd gathered each evening remains in total, respectful silence.

Be sure to arrive early for the ceremony. People stand on three sides of the gate, and the space fills up. Plan to be on your feet for a while, since there is no seating.

3. Tyne Cot Cemetery And Memorial

Located near the town of Passchendaele, the site of three major World War I battles, Tyne Cot Cemetery is a resting place for and memorial to the fallen soldiers from England, Canada, New Zealand, and Australia. It’s telling that out of the 12,000 graves, about 8,000 are marked unknown. These battles were so brutal that many of the young men who died could not be identified.

Tyne Cot, which first housed a barn, marks the farthest point reached by British forces in Belgium until near the end of the war. After the armistice, fallen soldiers were brought here from nearby Passchendaele, Langemarck, and other battlefields.

The Tyne Cot Memorial borders the curving rows of gravestones to the north. You can walk inside this memorial and see the names of nearly 35,000 men from the United Kingdom and New Zealand who died in the Ypres Salient after August of 1917 and were never found.

4. Hooge Crater Museum

This area saw fierce fighting from the fall of 1914 to the spring of 1918. A mine blew a crater here during one of the battles. Shortly after the war, a cemetery, church, and schoolhouse were built at Hooge. Today, the church holds the Hooge Crater Museum , with its collections of uniforms and weaponry. Plenty of artillery shells decorate the outside. Inside are displays of gas masks and other World War I artifacts.

The large cafe in the former schoolhouse serves delicious local foods. Consider planning your day so that you can be here at lunchtime. Relax on the patio and enjoy a ploughman’s lunch of meat and cheese or toasted ham and cheese, all served with fresh vegetables. The ice cream is a treat, too.

This area, the site of a notable battle of World War I, is preserved as it was during the war. The tunnels dug under Hill 60 were mined by Australians and blown up under enemy lines. The close proximity of the front lines is noted by the signs in the sidewalk. A German bunker also survives.

Australians took the Hill in June of 1917, Germans took it in April of 1918, and British and American troops took it back in September of 1918.

6. The Brooding Soldier

The Brooding Soldier looks down at you from atop a 33-foot granite column. Canadian troops held the line here in the face of the first poison chlorine gas attacks released by the Germans. More than 2,000 soldiers died. Notice that the memorialized soldier faces the direction from which the poison gas arrived.

7. German Military Cemetery

Of course, thousands of German men died in Flanders, too, and many are buried in the lovely German Military Cemetery just north of Ypres in Langemarck. The cemetery is one of four German cemeteries in Flanders. Under the shade of tall trees near picturesque farmland, more than 44,000 German soldiers rest. Gravestones laid flat are inscribed with the names of those in each site. Most moving is the Comrades Grave, the common grave of almost 25,000 unknown men.

8. Essex Farm Advanced Dressing Station And Cemetery

Attached to Essex Farm, just outside Ypres, the Essex Farm Advanced Dressing Station and Cemetery is a poignant place to visit.

The grave of one of the youngest of the fallen is here, and for that reason this is the World War I cemetery most visited by schoolchildren. This young man, only 15 years old, should have been in school, not on the battlefield, and that resonates with students.

The medic John McCrae worked in the field dressing station in primitive concrete bunkers at the edge of the cemetery. He is the author of the famous poem “In Flanders Fields”:

In Flanders fields the poppies blow

Between the crosses, row on row,

That mark our place; and in the sky

The larks, still bravely singing, fly

Scarce heard amid the guns below.

McCrae did not survive the war.

Take time to enter the primitive bunkers. Imagine the challenge of treating severely wounded men in this dark, dank, and dirty place.

9. Yorkshire Trench

The Yorkshire Trench system outside of Ypres has been restored to its original dimensions and exact location. The ground lay undisturbed until the 1990s, when construction workers started digging. They discovered a trench system just below the surface. Fortunately, part of the line of trenches is preserved and open to visitors. It’s amazing to walk in the footsteps of the men who lived and fought here 100 years ago.

Hill 62 is another place where the trenches have been restored and can be visited.

What To Know Before You Go

You could rent a car to see these World War I sights, or you could ride a bicycle. If you want a guide to inform you of the battles (and keep you from getting lost on the winding farm roads), I can recommend Quasimodo Tours . The guide is a local who is very knowledgeable about the history of Flanders Fields. The tour comes with an option to stay for the Last Post in Ypres.

The beauty of Flanders Fields comes as a surprise, considering its gruesome history. But just off the road, around a corner, or at the edge of a farmer’s crops, you’ll find memories of World War I. This war changed the world. By touring Flanders Fields, you’ll learn how it also changed the lives of many individuals, known and unknown.

As the owner of the travel blog, Exploring Our World , Sharon enjoys taking her readers on a journey with her. Articles often delve into the history of a place, and by adding in a generous number of photos, she inspires others to explore for themselves. In her early travels, she was most frustrated by coming back home and learning that she had missed a fascinating sight or a hidden gem. Now she helps travelers prepare for a trip by passing along travel tips, pointing out lesser known things to see, and alerting them to enjoyable day trips from major cities.

Her travel articles have been published by Stripes Europe Newsletter and the World War 2 Writing and Research Center. Whether she's discovering more about her hometown of San Diego, California or flying to faraway places, she enjoys sharing with travel lovers around the world.

8 of the best places to visit in Belgium

May 5, 2024 • 8 min read

Explore Belgium with this guide to the country's best places to visit © RossHelen / Getty Images

Travelers often overlook Belgium in favor of neighbors like France and the Netherlands, but it’s one of Europe’s best kept secrets. While its history means Belgium is linguistically and culturally diverse, it’s also small and compact, making it easy to hop between destinations. 

From perfect fries and chocolate to accessible nature breaks, picturesque medieval towns and vibrant art and fashion scenes, there's plenty to experience in Belgium. Here are the best places to visit.

1. Brussels

Best for shopping, museums and street food

Brussels , the capital of Belgium and seat of the EU and NATO, is one of Europe’s most multicultural cities. 

Art lovers can spend a whole day visiting the Royal Museum of Fine Arts of Belgium – its six different museums include the must-visit Magritte Museum – along with the Boghossian Foundation at Villa Empain, and the modern-chic Center for Fine Arts, a multipurpose cultural venue commonly referred to as BOZAR .

The city is filled with architectural masterpieces such as the Grand Place , a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site, and the illustrious Maison Cauchie , which can be toured on certain weekends with advance reservations.

You can find some of the world’s best and most affordable vintage shopping at the Brussels flea markets, most notably the daily open-air antique market in Place du Jeu-de-Balle, and the shops in the Sablon district.

Planning tip: For food and drink lovers, Brussels is the place to taste all of Belgium’s highlights. Délirium Café is a beloved, always-crowded bar with more than 2000 types of beer, including the country’s famed Trappist beers. Nearby, there are a handful of outdoor kiosks, known as frietkot (snack stands), where you can get your fix of frieten – fries served in a paper cone with your sauce of choice. To satisfy a sweet tooth, try Belgian chocolate at Pierre Marcolini and the fluffy Brussels-style waffles at Maison Dandoy .

Start crafting your Belgium budget with these tips .

2. Namur Province

Best for forts, nature and river views

Known as the “Land of Valleys”, the land-locked province of Namur in the Wallonia region is rich in rivers, cliffs, rolling farm hills and lush Ardennes greenery.

With postcard-perfect aesthetics and a mighty citadel perched atop limestone cliffs, Dinant is the ideal day-trip destination. Stroll around the town, cruise along the river, ride the cable car up to the fortress to take in the sweeping views and enjoy the scenery from a cafe while tasting regional specialties like the Couque de Dinant, a hard biscuit that comes in various shapes. Made of equal parts wheat flour and honey, it can be kept indefinitely, making a great souvenir to take back home.

For a once-in-a-lifetime culinary experience, head to Liernu, an even smaller town that’s the epitome of tranquility. Here you’ll find L’air du Temps , a fine-dining restaurant in a beautifully renovated farmhouse set on 5 hectares of private gardens. Most of the dishes served are sourced from the garden and often feature highlights of the local terroir, like Wallonia’s most sustainable food source, the Petits-Gris de Namur snails.

From there, you’re a stone’s throw from the city of Namur , capital of both the province and the region. This relaxed city is home to one of Europe’s largest citadels and also the adults-only Musée Félicien Rops , which exhibits the life and work of the scandalous 19th-century Belgian artist.

Best for wandering and romantic escapes 

A visit to Bruges feels like stepping into a fairy tale. Often called the Venice of the North, the city is incredibly charming with an intricate network of tree-lined canals, cobblestone streets and well-preserved architecture. To add to the allure, many of the distinctively medieval buildings look like gingerbread houses, thanks to the red Gothic brick. All that and the fact that it’s the birthplace of Flemish Primitive painting led to the entire historic center of Bruges being designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Bruges is best experienced at a leisurely pace. Wander around the Old Town on foot, soaking up the atmosphere of the city squares, the Markt and the Burg ; hop on a canal boat tour and count all 54 bridges, then bike along the canals to the less crowded places. For the best bird’s-eye views, head to the Belfort , one of Bruges’ most recognizable landmarks, and climb the 366 steps to the top.

Catch your breath with a crisp Belgian beer, which can be found on every corner of the city. Noteworthy destinations are De Halve Maan , a brewery that also offers tours with tastings, and ’t Brugs Beertje , a legendary beerhouse with more than 300 Belgian brews on the menu.

Last but not least, no visit to Bruges is complete without a visit to the Groeningemuseum , a fine art museum with an impressive Flemish Primitive collection.

Best for fashion and design 

Home to the world-renowned Royal Academy of Fine Arts Antwerp , Belgium’s second city is also its coolest. Some of fashion’s top creatives, including Martin Margiela and Balenciaga’s Demna Gvasalia, have connections to Antwerp . A few have gone on to open shops here that are worth a visit, such as Dries Van Noten’s Het Modepaleis and Ann Demeulemeester’s sleek, black-and-bone-white flagship store .

There are more trendy shops in the Kammenstraat and Nationalestraat areas that make up the Fashion District, where you can also find the impressive fashion museum MoMu .

Beyond its stylish inhabitants, Antwerp has a visual edge driven by the contrasting architectural styles of contemporary projects and medieval buildings. Make your way down to the port to marvel at late architect Zaha Hadid’s Antwerp Port House and the MAS , home to exhibitions and collections revolving around the city.

5. The Belgian coast

Best for beaches 

The  Belgian coast stretches for 65km (40 miles), meaning you can pack multiple towns into a visit without feeling overwhelmed. Making things even easier is de Kusttram , a coastal tram that’s one of the longest in the world. It starts near the French border at De Panne and travels all the way to Knokke-Heist near the Dutch border, making 67 stops. The complete journey takes 2.5 hours and allows you to admire the coastline in its entirety, jumping off whenever you like without having to worry about parking.  

The two must-visit stops are De Haan and Oostduinkerke. De Haan is unlike other towns in that all buildings must be under five floors, which helps preserve its small-village charm. The low beachfront made up of Belle Epoque architecture and unspoiled grassy dunes is love at first sight for many. Still not convinced? The sweet treats at the retro Wafelhuis Annie or high tea at the vintage 't Stil Genot tearoom are sure to win you over. 

Oostduinkerke, or East Dunkirk, is a protected dune area and the only place in the world where shrimpers still use horse-dragged nets to collect tiny gray shrimp from the sand. This centuries-old tradition is practiced by just over a dozen highly trained locals and takes place at low tide during the warmer months, usually between April and October. In 2013, shrimp fishing on horseback in Oostduinkerke received UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity status. To learn more about this and the other local sea traditions, visit Navigo , a national museum housed in a 19th-century fisher’s cottage.

Best for a quirky weekend break

Located between Brussels and Bruges, Ghent encapsulates the best of Belgian cities: winding canals, medieval architecture, enviable museums and cobblestone alleyways filled with shops and restaurants. The difference is that it’s also home to the largest student population in Belgium – a young, beating heart in one of the country’s oldest urban areas. 

Take a closer look and you’ll find an unconventional creative community, flourishing music scene and so many plant-based menus that it’s often referred to as the vegetarian capital of Europe. 

Since 2009, Ghent has proudly held the title of UNESCO Creative City of Music. There’s a wide range of options for everyone’s tastes, from Belgium’s first silent disco at Abacho to performances at the never boring Vooruit Art Center and De Bijloke Muziekcentrum , and live music on the street and in bars and cafes like Kinky Star , a record-label-owned cafe famous for its Irish coffees and alternative concerts.

Best for thermal hot springs and well-being

Spas around the world take their name from this peaceful and breathtaking Ardennes town. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2021, Spa is known for its healing thermal springs and lightly sparkling mineral water. The most famous spa in Spa is Thermes de Spa , a modern and surprisingly affordable complex in the hills that’s backed by more than 150 years of knowledge and tradition. With a stunning natural landscape as your backdrop, resting and relaxing feels easy here.

Spa is also home to the world’s first casino , a permanent exhibition of Joan Miró lithographs , and the annual Formula 1 Belgian Grand Prix at the world-class Spa-Francorchamps track.

These road trips will take you to all the highlights in Belgium .

8. Hoge Kempen National Park

Best for nature

Hoge Kempen National Park is the only national park in Belgium. A former coal-mining site, it opened in 2006 following the cooperative conservation efforts of businesses, government agencies and environmental organizations.

The 57 sq km (22 sq mile) nature reserve is mostly heathland and pine forest, a lush landscape of evergreen trees – and vibrant purple-flowering shrubs in August and September – next to expansive artificial waterways. Today, it’s inhabited by more than 6000 species of flora and fauna, which is especially impressive considering the area’s industrial history. 

Planning tip:  There are numerous entrances to the park. For those without a car, the park can be accessed through the Kattevennen Gateway , first by taking a train to Genk station, followed by a De Lijn bus ride or a short walk. Once inside, there are different routes depending on whether you’re exploring by bicycle, mountain bike, horseback or on foot. Admission is always free, and the park is open all year long. Rangers offer guided experiences for all ages with advance registration.

This article was first published May 13, 2022 and updated May 5, 2024.

Explore related stories

Destination Practicalities

May 23, 2024 • 5 min read

Choose the right time for your visit to Belgium with this seasonal breakdown. 

May 22, 2024 • 6 min read

Dec 19, 2023 • 6 min read

Sep 19, 2023 • 4 min read

May 18, 2023 • 6 min read

Dec 9, 2022 • 9 min read

May 21, 2022 • 6 min read

May 15, 2022 • 4 min read

Dec 20, 2021 • 7 min read

Aug 30, 2021 • 7 min read