Ypres is a town of 35,000 inhabitants located in the Westhoek region, just 20 kilometers from the French border. It has a rich historical past dating back to the 10th century. In the Middle Ages, Ypres was one of Flanders’ three main cloth-making centers, along with Bruges and Ghent. During the First World War, the charming town was reduced to a vast mess. The inhabitants rebuilt their town, respecting the past. Today, Ypres is a sparkling town, surrounded by a green belt of fortifications, with many sites worth visiting, pleasant cafés, plenty of culinary specialties and plenty of lovely accommodation.
Ypres Museum in BelgiumYpres Museum in Belgium
Resto Pacific Eiland in Ypres, Belgium
In Flanders Fields Museum in Ypres, Belgium
The Belfry of Ypres in Belgium, night view.
Vestingen in Ypres, BelgiumYpres, the Belgian cousin
Introducing Ypres
Must-sees in Ypres
- The “In Flanders Fields” museum, installed in the Cloth Hall, presents the history of the First World War through personal accounts and modern techniques.
- The new Ypres Museum, opened in July 2018, also in the Cloth Hall, immerses visitors, via an interactive tour, in life in Ypres and the province of Westhoek, from the Middle Ages to the present day.
- The fortifications, which still surround two-thirds of the town center, represent a pleasant place to stroll between nature and history.
Kazematten Wiperstimes in Ypres, BelgiumKazematten Wiperstimes in Ypres, Belgium
Major events in Ypres
"Last Post
This daily ritual takes place at 8pm at the Menin Gate. It’s a solemn ceremony not to be missed if you’re visiting Ypres. Since 1928, more than 31,000 Last Posts have been held.
De gevleugelde stad
It’s an international festival of circus and street performances. This unique event takes place on the 2nd weekend in April at the many historic sites in the town center and fortified area.
The procession of cats
Held every 3 years (the next one is scheduled for May 2021), it’s a breathtaking spectacle, with new floats, giants, music, theater and dance groups every time. Folklore at its best!
A little advice
for your visit to YpresClimb the 232 steps of the belfry and enjoy a fantastic view of the city center and surrounding area, with panoramic views as far as France, Mont Cassel and Mont des Cats. Afterwards, sample the delicious “Wipers Times”, a beer brewed in Ypres, at the “De Kazematten” brewery.
Peter Slosse, Director of the Ypres Tourist Office
