Ypres, BelgiumThe Essential Guide to Ypres
Summary: Discover the charm of Ypres with our guide to the city's top attractions, culinary hotspots, and vibrant nightlife. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, we'll also help you find the best recreational activities to enjoy, and offer advice on making lasting connections with the friendly locals.
Welcome to Ypres! If you're planning to move to Ypres, congratulations on taking the first step towards a new adventure. While there are many things to think about before you leave, such as visas, housing, and transportation, it's important to remember that once you arrive, the fun really begins. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the best sites, restaurants, and nightlife that Ypres has to offer, as well as provide tips on recreational activities and making friends in Ypres.
Ypres, a small city in Belgium, is a place of great historical significance, particularly due to its role in World War I. The city offers numerous sites of interest for tourists and locals alike, with many of them related to the war. One of the most iconic landmarks in Ypres is the Menin Gate Memorial, which commemorates the thousands of British and Commonwealth soldiers who died in the Ypres Salient and have no known grave. The Last Post ceremony, held every evening at 8 pm, is a poignant tribute to the fallen soldiers and a must-see for visitors.
The In Flanders Fields Museum, located in the Cloth Hall, is another important site that tells the story of the First World War through interactive exhibits and personal testimonies. The museum also offers a panoramic view of the city from its belfry. The Cloth Hall itself is a stunning example of Gothic architecture and has been beautifully restored after being destroyed during the war.
For those interested in exploring the battlefields and cemeteries of the Ypres Salient, there are several guided tours available, such as the Ypres Battlefield Tours and the Salient Tours. These tours provide a deeper understanding of the events that took place in the area and the lives of the soldiers who fought there. Some of the notable sites visited on these tours include the Tyne Cot Cemetery, the largest Commonwealth war cemetery in the world, and the Hill 60 preserved battlefield.
Ypres also offers a variety of other attractions, such as the Saint Martin's Cathedral, a beautiful Gothic church that houses several art treasures, and the Ramparts Cemetery, a peaceful and picturesque burial ground located along the city's medieval walls. For nature lovers, the nearby Palingbeek Provincial Domain is a lovely park with walking trails, a golf course, and a visitor center.
The restaurant and nightlife scene in Ypres is diverse and caters to a variety of tastes. One of the most popular restaurants in the city is De Ruyffelaer, which offers a mix of traditional Belgian and French cuisine in a cozy and elegant setting. Another favorite is Pacific Eiland, a unique restaurant located on an island in the middle of a park, offering beautiful views and a varied menu that includes seafood, meat, and vegetarian dishes.
For a more casual dining experience, visitors can try Tom's Diner, a popular burger joint with a relaxed atmosphere and a wide selection of craft beers. In't Klein Stadhuis is another great option for those looking to sample traditional Belgian dishes, such as Flemish stew and waterzooi, in a charming and historic setting.
Ypres also has a lively bar scene, with many establishments offering a wide range of Belgian beers. Some popular spots include The Old Tom, a cozy pub with a large beer selection and live music on weekends, and De Vagant, a stylish bar with a focus on gin and other spirits. For a more laid-back atmosphere, visitors can head to the Kazematten Brewery, located in a historic fortress, to enjoy a locally brewed beer and a stunning view of the city.
Recreational activities in Ypres are centered around its rich history and beautiful natural surroundings. Walking and cycling are popular ways to explore the city and its surrounding countryside, with several well-marked routes available. The Ypres Salient cycling route, for example, takes visitors on a 33-kilometer journey through the battlefields and memorials of the First World War. Bikes can be rented from several locations in the city, such as Fietsen Fieles and Ypres Bike Rental.
For those interested in golf, the Ypres Open Golf Club offers a challenging 18-hole course set in the picturesque Palingbeek Provincial Domain. The club also has a driving range and a clubhouse with a restaurant and bar.
Another popular recreational activity in Ypres is fishing, with several ponds and rivers in the area offering opportunities for anglers. The Zillebekevijver, a large pond located near the city center, is a popular spot for fishing, as well as for walking and picnicking. Fishing permits can be obtained from the local tourist office or from several fishing shops in the city.
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Insider Tips from Expats in Ypres: Making the Most of Life and Connections
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Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
AGS Worldwide MoversRelocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
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AGS Worldwide MoversGet Quote
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
AGS Worldwide MoversRelocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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