Paris is known for its cafés and wine bars, but it’s also a fantastic base for exploring some of the best drinking tours in nearby Belgium. Whether you’re interested in sampling Belgian chocolates, savoring local beers, or experiencing a Christmas market with festive treats, these tours offer authentic tastes and memorable moments beyond the City of Light. We particularly love the Bruges Day Trip from Paris, which combines immersive history with beer and chocolate tastings — a perfect pairing for a day out. For a more seasonal experience, the Private Bruges Christmas Tour offers a cozy stroll through festive markets and local delicacies. Both tours stand out for their immersive experiences, expert guides, and convenient pickup options.
Below, you’ll find a detailed comparison of these two top-rated tours. Each offers a unique way to enjoy Belgian treats and historic sights, making them ideal choices whether you’re a foodie, history enthusiast, or holiday spirit seeker.
1. Bruges Day Trip from Paris, Historium VR, Choco|Beer tasting
At number one on our list is a comprehensive day trip to Bruges, a picture-perfect medieval city that’s just a couple of hours from Paris by private vehicle. This tour is packed with highlights, starting with the Historium VR journey, which takes you through Bruges’ past in an immersive virtual reality experience. It’s a great way to set the scene and get a taste of what makes this city special. Afterward, you’ll enjoy a guided walk through Market Square, Burg Square, and visit the Basilica of the Holy Blood, all led by an informative guide.
What makes this trip stand out is the combination of sightseeing with delicious Belgian chocolate or beer tastings. You get to choose between visiting the Choco-Story Museum or experiencing a Belgian beer tasting at the Duvelorium Skybar, which offers a panoramic view of Bruges’ iconic Market Square. The tour includes a 75-minute immersive VR experience, a 2-hour guided walk, a leisurely lunch, and 1.5 hours at a beer or chocolate experience — all wrapped up in a 14-hour day. Reviews highlight the seamless organization and the welcoming driver, making for a relaxed yet enriching experience.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for those who want a full, guided look at Bruges, with plenty of opportunities to indulge in local chocolates or beers. It’s especially suited for travelers who love history and tasting authentic Belgian treats in a comfortable setting.
2. Private Bruges Christmas Tour from Paris Choco|Beer Testing
The second spot on our list is a private Christmas-themed trip that brings Bruges alive with holiday spirit. Starting from Paris, this 13-hour tour offers a more personalized experience, perfect for those wanting an intimate look at Bruges during the festive season. The tour kicks off with a guided walk through the medieval old town, taking in Market Square, the Belfry Tower, and holiday markets full of lights, gifts, and Belgian treats.
This tour’s highlight is the cozy Christmas atmosphere, with time to explore festive markets and enjoy local chocolates or beers. The visit to the Bruges Beer Experience or chocolate museum is tailored to your preference, and the tour includes a special French delicacies gift set as a holiday bonus. The scenic drive offers charming views on the way, and the intimate nature of a private tour ensures a flexible, relaxed pace. Guests often appreciate the combination of historical sights with seasonal cheer.
The focus on holiday festivities makes this tour perfect for lovers of Christmas markets and Belgian gourmet treats. The private setup allows for a more flexible schedule and personalized attention, ideal for couples or small groups. One review notes, “The Christmas market was magical, and the tour felt personalized and special.”
Bottom Line: This tour is best suited for holiday enthusiasts, couples, or anyone wanting a festive, intimate day in Bruges with food and drink at the heart of the experience.
How to Choose Between These Tours
When deciding between these options, consider your priorities. If you’re after a full-day, guided experience with immersive VR and classic sightseeing, the Bruges Day Trip from Paris offers excellent value and a well-rounded itinerary. It’s ideal for first-time visitors who want to see the sights and indulge in Belgium’s famous chocolates or beers.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more relaxed, personalized outing with a seasonal twist, the Private Bruges Christmas Tour delivers a cozy, festive experience. It’s perfect for small groups or couples looking for a romantic or holiday-themed escape.
Both tours include hotel pickup in Paris, so you avoid the hassle of arranging transport. Think about your budget, whether you value immersive experiences or holiday ambiance, and how much time you want to spend exploring — these factors will guide your choice.
Final thoughts
Whether you opt for the full-day adventure with immersive VR and historic highlights, or the intimate, festive holiday experience, both tours provide a fantastic way to enjoy Belgian beer, chocolates, and medieval charm outside Paris. The Bruges trips are especially recommended for travelers who want a change of scenery, a taste of Belgian culture, and some memorable moments with friends or loved ones.
To make sure you don’t miss out, consider booking early — these popular day trips fill up quickly, especially around holiday seasons. Whichever you choose, you’ll leave with a richer appreciation for Bruges and its delightful culinary traditions.