Belgium Flea Markets with Laura Caldwell

Dates

Sep 19–24, 2024

Group Size

16–20 Travelers

Duration

6 days, 5 nights

Activity Level

Relaxation

About This Trip

On this six-day trip to Brussels and Bruges, we'll vintage shop our way through the historic cities, and venture to some of the best flea markets Europe has to offer! In Brussels, we'll shop the largest daily flea market in Belgium, hunt for treasures in a charming district famous for it's antique shops, and eat traditional Belgian food, all while making new friends. We'll visit one of my favorite cities in Europe, Bruges! Known as the "Venice of the North," Bruges enchants with its medieval allure. Cobblestone streets, canals, and the iconic Belfry define this Belgian gem. Discover historic Markt square, indulge in chocolate shops, Belgian waffles, and shop the twice a year massive Zandfeesten flea market —Bruges is a fairy-tale destination that seamlessly blends history, art, and culinary delights.
$3,499USD

Meet Your Host

Laura Caldwell
Laura Caldwell

Hello friends!! My name is Laura and I am an interior stylist, vintage shop owner and YouTuber. I am thrilled to get this opportunity to travel the world with you! Flea market shopping, history, incredible food and adventures await us =) Instagram: @LeftCoastRevivals Vintage Store: www.LeftCoastRevivals.com YouTube: Laura Caldwell

View Full Profile

Trip Activities

  • Marche Aux Puces Shopping

  • Canal Cruise

  • Shopping at Zandfeesten

  • Shopping Day

Included in Your Trip

  • Double occupancy in 4-star hotels (limited single rooms available)

  • Local Guide throughout trip

  • All city transfers

  • Arrival airport transfer (until 6 pm on first day)

  • Departure airport transfer (morning of last day)

Not Included

  • Flights (except as noted)

  • Food & Alcohol (except as noted)

  • Visas & Travel Insurance

  • Airport Transfers Outside of Designated Times

  • Tips & Gratuity

What's included by Your Host

Shopping at Zandfeesten

Informal Gathering
After lunch, we will head back to the Zandfeesten Flea Market to continue shopping or you can choose a free afternoon/evening to explore the city on your own.

Itinerary

*All durations are approximate

Day 1

Info

Welcome to Belgium! At a previously deginated time, meet your driver at the Airport and get transferred to your hotel, where you will meet the rest of the group and your tour leader, who will be with you throughout your trip. In the evening, enjoy a Welcome Dinner, this is a perfect opportunity to get to know your travel companions!

Arrival Airport Transfer

25 Mins

TrovaTrip will provide 3 transfers from Brussels Airport (BRU), between 11am and 5pm. Exact transfer time within this window will be determined closer to your arrival based on provided traveler flight information. Travelers arriving outside of the requested flight guidelines will need to make their own arrangements to meet the group at the hotel.

dinner

Get to know your group! Enjoy a 3-course meal and a drink at a local restaurant near the hotel (walking distance).

Novotel Brussels Center Midi Station, or similar

(or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/2

Overnight in Brussels

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 2

Info

Spend most of the day a one of the largest daily flea markets in Belgium! The Marche aux Puces is where nearly 200 dealers converge to offer up an abundance of steals and bargains on bric-a-bracs and antiques. This flea market is located near other antique shopping areas such as Place du Sablon and Rue Haute, but offers goods at much lower prices. You will get transferred to the market in the morning and transferred back to your hotel mid-afternoon, so there will be plenty of time for shopping. The rest of the afternoon will be free to explore on your own. Make sure to ask your tour manager for tips on where to go and places to visit.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. The hotel offers a full buffet breakfast that will delight your taste buds. The breakfast room is open from 07:00am to 10:30am on weekdays and from 8:00am to 11:00am on weekends.The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Marche Aux Puces Shopping

5 Hours

At 8:45am you will be transferred 15 minutes to the market in 2-3 Minivans or 1 Mercedes Minibus or similar brand. Depending on traffic limitations, this transfer may be provided in multiple vehicles as opposed to a single large vehicle. Here you will have 5 hours to shop before being transferred back to the hotel. After arriving at the hotel you will have the remainder of the day at your leisure.

Novotel Brussels Center Midi Station, or similar

(or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 2/2

Overnight in Brussels

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 3

Info

Meet your driver at the hotel and get transferred to the city of Bruges. Known as the "Venice of the North," Bruges enchants with its medieval allure. Cobblestone streets, canals, and the iconic Belfry define this Belgian gem. Discover historic Markt square, indulge in chocolate shops, and explore the Groeningemuseum—Bruges is a fairy-tale destination that seamlessly blends history, art, and culinary delights. After checking in at the hotel, make your way to a nearby restaurant for a group lunch. After lunch, enjoy an unforgetable 30 minutes canal cruise on a private boat. The river cruise will take you along the most scenic spots in Bruges. You get to see the most famous places of interest from a totaly different perspective. Rest of the afternoon free to explore at your own pace.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. The Hotel offers a full buffet breakfast that will delight your taste buds. The breakfast room is open from 07:00am to 10:30am on weekdays and from 8:00am to 11:00am on weekends.The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hote

Private Transfer to Bruges

2 Hours

A 30 seater Mercedes Coach or similar brand with a local driver will take you from one hotel to the other. Your driver will be happy to make one or two stops at a rest area if the group needs.

lunch

Enjoy a 3-course lunch with a drink at a local restaurant near your hotel in Bruges (walking distance).

Canal Cruise

30 Mins

The course takes you along the most scenic spots in Bruges. You get to see the most famous places of interest from a totaly different perspective. You will be able to see the following historic sites during the boat ride: Beguinage - Saint John’s Hospital - Church of Our Lady - Groeninge Museum - Ambachtshuis Huidevetters - Belfry & Carillon - Liberty of Bruges - Fish Market - Almshouses - Stepped gables - Burghers' Lodge. All boat trips in the historical inner city of Bruges take place on the same fixed course, imposed by the city government. They take about 30 minutes. There is no eating or drinking allowed on board. The mooring place is located at the Katelijnestraat 4 in Bruges, right next to Saint John's Hospital and the Church of Our Lady. A toilet is available.

NH Brugges Hotel, or similar

(or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/3

Overnight in Bruges

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 4

Info

The charming city of Bruges offers travelers an unique shopping experience at the Bruges Zandfeesten. This flea market extravaganza is considered one of the largest antiques and second-hand markets in Flanders, attracting hundreds of vendors and thousands of bargain hunters from all over. For those looking to grab a bargain or two, it is important to set your alarm clock early. Our driver will be ready to take you to Zandfeesten early in the morning. You will have aprox 3.5 hours to spend at the market, exploring and shopping at your own pace. At around lunch time, our driver will take you back to the hotel. At an agreed time, walk to a local nearby restaurant for a lovely group lunch. The afternoon will be free to explore on your own. Make sure to reach out to your tour leader for suggestions of visits and nice activities to do in Bruges.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. The Hotel offers a full buffet breakfast that will delight your taste buds. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Shopping at Zandfeesten

3 Hours 30 Mins

Today you will go shopping at the Zandfeesten market. Here you will have 3.5 hours to shop before being transferred back to the hotel for lunch.

lunch

Enjoy a 3-course lunch with a drink at a local restaurant near your Hotel in Bruges (walking distance).

Shopping at Zandfeesten

After lunch, we will head back to the Zandfeesten Flea Market to continue shopping or you can choose a free afternoon/evening to explore the city on your own.

NH Brugges Hotel, or similar

(or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 2/3

Overnight in Bruges

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 5

Info

Get ready for more thrift shopping! You will have your very own driver and vehicle at disposal for 4h to visit the best shopping places in Bruges. Rest of the afternoon to enjoy at leisure. In the evening, joing the rest of the group at a local restaurant for a Farewell Dinner.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. The Hotel offers a full buffet breakfast that will delight your taste buds. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Shopping Day

4 Hours

Today you will have a private driver and vehicle who will shuttle you around town to shop for four hours. For the duration of this service, your driver will take you wherever you want to go within the city limits. This service may be provided in multiple vehicles or one single coach, depending on the stops you wish to make (there may be traffic limitations in certain areas of the city's Old Town).

dinner

Farewell dinner at a local restaurant near the hotel (walking distance). A 3-Course Menu and 1 Drink is included.

NH Brugges Hotel, or similar

(or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 3/3

Overnight in Bruges

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 6

Info

At previously agreed times, get transferred to Brussels Airport for your flight back home. See you next time!

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included. The Hotel offers a full buffet breakfast that will delight your taste buds. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Departure Airport Transfer

2 Hours

TrovaTrip will provide 3 departure transfers from the hotel to Brussels Airport (BRU), between 6:00am and 4:00pm. Exact transfer time within this window will be determined closer to the trip departure based on provided traveler flight information. Travelers departing outside of the requested flight guidelines will need to make their own transfer arrangements to the airport. Each transfer takes around 2 hours and your driver will be happy to make a stop at a rest area if you need one during the journey.

Show DetailsHide Details

Physical Activity Level:Relaxation

These trips are designed to help you get into (and stay in) chill mode. Think hanging out, good food and good conversation. These trips won't make you break a sweat unless you want to.

Cancellation Policy

We get it—life happens. Here's how cancellations work depending on where you're at in the process:

Spot Pending

100% refundable
Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.

Spot Confirmed With 91 or More Days Before Your Trip

Partially refundable + credit towards a future trip
You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment.

Spot Confirmed With 90 or Fewer Days Before Your Trip

Non-refundable
At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure-Invest in Peace of Mind

We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events—from illness to emergencies—that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.
$3,499USD
Sep 19–24, 2024
6 days
Trip Closed

Join 30,000 Travelers Who've Booked With TrovaTrip

Explore the world with confidence. You're in great company!

Flexible Payment Options

Reserve your spot with just 25% down, pay in full, or apply for a payment plan at booking. Your dream trip, your way.

Trusted Local Experiences

We partner with 50 handpicked Trip Operators worldwide to give you authentic, unforgettable adventures.

Thousands of Reviews

Don't just take our word for it, read what real Travelers are saying on Trova, Trustpilot, and Google.

Here When You Need Us

Questions? We're just a tap away. Get support via Chat or our Help Center.

FAQ

Traveling with TrovaTrip

What's it like to travel on a Trova Trip?

Trova Trips are curated group travel experiences designed to help you see the world, meet new people, and connect over shared interests. Each trip is hosted by a community leader you know and trust, and run by professional local Operators who handle the logistics. Expect meaningful experiences, authentic activities, and a like-minded group to share it all with.

How does a Trova Trip actually work? Who's involved?

Great question! Each plays a key role in bringing your trip to life:

  • The Host is your community leader—the person who brings the group together, sets the vibe, and curates the overall experience. They may lead a workshop or activity during the trip, but their main focus is connection and community, not logistics.
  • The Operator is the certified, independent company that runs the trip on the ground. They handle the logistics like accommodations, transportation, Guides, activities, and safety. Every Operator we partner with is licensed, insured, and vetted to ensure a high-quality travel experience.
  • TrovaTrip is the platform that powers it all. We connect Hosts with trusted Operators, provide the tools to design and manage trips, and support Travelers before and during their journey to ensure everything runs smoothly.

In short: The Host shapes the experience and brings the vibe, the Operator runs the trip, and we make it all happen. Read more about who does what here.

What's the difference between the Host, the Operator, and Trova?

Great question! Each plays a key role in bringing your experience to life:

  • The Host is your community leader who brings the group together, fosters connection, and perhaps leads a workshop or two. They're there to bring the vibes, not the logistics. That's the Tour Operator's job.
  • The Operator is the professional travel company that runs the trip on the ground. They handle it all—accommodations, local Guides, activities, and safety. Every Operator we partner with is licensed, insured, and vetted to deliver high-quality group travel.
  • TrovaTrip is the platform who connects it all. We help design the trips, partner with Hosts with Operators, and support you before and during your journey to ensure everything runs smoothly.

In short: The Host brings the vibe, the Operator runs the trip, and we make it all happen. Read more about who does what here.

I'm nervous to book. How can I feel more confident?

First, let us say—it's totally understandable, and you're not alone! Travel can feel intimidating, but we built Trova to take the guesswork out of group travel and earn your trust every step of the way:

    • Every trip is run by licensed Tour Operators with vetted local Guides.
    • Hosts are there to foster connection, meaning you'll arrive solo but never feel alone.
    • Itineraries are clearly outlined so you know what to expect, including activity level, example accommodations, and what's included.
    • Our team is available to support you pre-departure, and Operators—plus your local Guide—are on the ground to assist during the trip. And rest assured, all our Operating partners are trained in crisis management.
    • We always recommend travel insurance for extra peace of mind, whether you're traveling with Trova or solo. It can cover medical issues, lost luggage, or even cancellations.

We know it takes trust to book a trip with new people, and we're here to make sure you feel ready, supported, and excited!”

Can I book solo?

Absolutely! As of 2025, almost 84% of TrovaTrip Travelers go solo. (And yes, we may be a little biased, but we think group travel is one of the best ways to meet new people!) You'll have your own bed and the option to book a private room on most trips. Plus you'll be traveling with others who are just as excited to explore and connect.

What if I need to cancel?

We understand that life happens. Our cancellation policy is designed to provide flexibility while balancing the logistics of group travel:

  • Spot pending100% refundable. Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.
  • Spot confirmed with 91 or more days before your tripPartially refundable + credit towards a future trip. You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment. 
  • Spot confirmed with 90 days or fewer before your tripNon-refundable. At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure–Invest in Peace of Mind
We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events–from illness to emergencies–that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

What's included in the trip cost?

Most trips include accommodations, daily activities, ground transportation, some meals, and a dedicated local Guide. Because Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Each trip page breaks it all down for you.

Does my Host make money from hosting?

TL;DR: Sometimes! Many Hosts earn income from leading trips, but not always.

Every trip on Trova is uniquely shaped by the Host. They choose the destination, curate the itinerary, and rally their community to come along for the adventure. It’s a big effort (and a rewarding one, or so we hear!).

A Host’s earnings depend on the trip price they set and how many Travelers join. Trova provides the tools, support, and platform—but ultimately, income isn’t guaranteed.

Will I have free time?

Yes! While we pack in incredible experiences, most itineraries include built-in free time so you can relax, wander, or check out personal must-sees.

What do the activity levels mean?

Every trip has a physical Activity Level from 1 to 5 so you can find the right fit for your travel style:

  • Level 1 – Relax + Unwind: Minimal movement (spa days, beach lounging, local markets)
  • Level 2 – Low-Key Movement: Light, easy-paced activity (snorkeling, boat tours, gentle hikes)
  • Level 3 – Moderate Activity: Ready to move (multi-day hikes, skiing, camping)
  • Level 4 – Get Your Heart Rate Up: More intense movement (long hikes, biking, active days)
  • Level 5 – Extreme Adventure: High-adrenaline travel (challenging hikes, dives, technical climbs – experience may be required)

You'll find the Activity Level clearly listed on each trip page, and a more in-depth explanation of each level here.

Who can I contact with more questions?

Our support team is here to help! Visit trovatrip.com/company/contact-us to reach out. You can expect to hear back within 2 business days, but probably sooner—our Trova elves are pretty speedy!

Accommodations

What does "or similar" mean next to the accommodations?

When we say “or similar,” it means the hotel listed is an example of what you can expect—not always the exact spot you'll be staying. Sometimes Operators adjust accommodations due to seasonal availability or group size. But rest assured: the quality and comfort will match what's shown.

Why would the accommodations change from time of booking?

Flexibility allows Operators to choose the best-fit accommodations closer to your trip—based on availability, logistics, and what works best for the group (like the number of Travelers and room configurations). This ensures a smooth experience without sacrificing comfort or quality.

Finalized hotel info is typically shared about 30 days before departure in your Traveler Portal, along with your final itinerary.

Trip Operations & Compliance

Who actually runs my trip, and how does Trova keep things safe?

Your trip is operated by licensed, certified Tour Operators who manage all trip logistics and safety—from accommodations and local Guides and day-to-day logistics. All trips comply with local legal and regulatory standards. We vet each Operating partner carefully so you can travel with confidence.

Who do I talk to if I have questions about safety or compliance?

If you have any questions about safety protocols or trip compliance, reach out to us at safety@trovatrip.com. We're here to help.

General Travel Questions

Do I need any documentation to travel?

It depends on where you're headed. Though it is not a universal requirement, many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. This ensures Travelers have sufficient time to return home even if their visas are extended or if unexpected circumstances arise. 

Some destinations may also require a visa. Check our visa page to consult your country's travel resources.

Do I need any vaccines?

It's always best to check with your healthcare provider or a travel doctor before your trip. You can also visit the CDC website (or your local government's travel health resource) for destination-specific vaccine guidance. Health and safety first!

Are flights included in the trip cost?

Because our Hosts and Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Some trips include internal flights (like a short domestic hop), and those details will always be listed on the trip page if applicable.

Can you accommodate my dietary needs?

We’ll do our very best! Our Operators aim to accommodate dietary restrictions, though availability varies by destination. For example, some places offer plenty of vegan and vegetarian choices, while others might be quite limited. The earlier you let us know—through your trip form or by contacting our support team—the better we can prepare. Once you arrive, be sure to remind your local Guide about any allergies or restrictions so they can help you enjoy your meals safely and comfortably.