From Brussels: Ghent and Bruges Day Tour

Explore Belgium’s Iconic Cities on a Day Trip from Brussels

This full-day tour costs $54 per person and lasts approximately 10.5 hours, making it a great choice for travelers who want a rundown of Ghent and Bruges without staying overnight. Starting near Brussels Central Station, the tour is organized by BRUSSELS CITY TOURS and includes air-conditioned transportation, a multilingual guide, and guided walking tours in both cities.

While the itinerary is packed, the pace is well managed, and the tour offers plenty of highlights to see, such as the Saint Bavo Cathedral, the medieval Castle of the Counts, the picturesque Lake of Love, and the historic Begijnhof. This tour is ideal for those short on time but eager to experience the charm of these Flemish towns. A key consideration is the physical demand—it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or people with mobility issues, given the walking involved.

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Key Points

• Price: $54 per person for a full-day guided tour
• Duration: 10.5 hours, including transfers and sightseeing
• Departure point: Outside the National Bank of Belgium near Brussels Central Station
• Highlights include: Saint Bavo Cathedral, Castle of the Counts, Lake of Love, Begijnhof, Belfry Tower, and optionally a canal boat ride
• Includes: Air-conditioned transportation, multilingual guides, earphones, and guided walks in both cities
• Not included: Lunch, entry tickets, or hotel pickup

From Brussels to Ghent: Discovering a Student City with Medieval Charm

The tour begins in Brussels, where comfortable coaches await outside the National Bank of Belgium. The guide provides a brief overview of Belgium’s history before heading to Ghent, which is renowned for its lively atmosphere and medieval architecture.

In Ghent, the Saint Bavo Cathedral takes center stage, housing the famous “Adoration of the Mystic Lamb” painting, which is a highlight for many visitors. The historic port of Graslei offers scenic views of old warehouses, while the Castle of the Counts stands as a relic of the Middle Ages. The Great Butchers’ Hall reveals the city’s past commercial vitality, and there’s time to relax at a local terrace to soak in the vibrant street life.

The guided tour in Ghent lasts about one hour, with an additional 45-minute break to explore at your own pace. This flexible window allows for some personal discovery or a quick snack before the journey continues.

Exploring Bruges: The Fairy-Tale City Known as the ‘Venice of the North’

After a coach transfer of around one hour, the tour reaches Bruges, a city celebrated for its charming cobbled streets, historic buildings, and waterways. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Bruges feels like a scene from a storybook.

The guided walk in Bruges takes approximately two hours, during which visitors see the Market Square (Grote Markt) with its famous Belfry Tower—climbers can enjoy panoramic views of the city. The Begijnhof, built in 1245, offers a serene look into religious life, while the Old St. Johns Hospital from the 11th century showcases medieval healthcare.

A special feature of this tour is an optional canal boat trip, which provides a relaxing perspective of Bruges’ waterways—earning it the nickname “Venice of the North”. The boat ride costs around €15, paid in cash, and is highly recommended for an added dimension to the visit.

Navigating the Itinerary and Travel Logistics

The day starts at 9 am and wraps up around 7:30 pm, with a well-structured schedule that balances guided activities and free time. The initial transfer from Brussels to Ghent takes about an hour, followed by the guided tour and break. After exploring Ghent, another hour-long coach ride brings travelers to Bruges.

In Bruges, the two-hour guided walk includes visits to key landmarks, and there’s free time to enjoy local chocolate shops and souvenir stores. The return transfer to Brussels is also about two hours, ensuring a relaxed end to the day.

The group size tends to be large, equipped with radios and earphones for clear communication, though some reviews highlight occasional issues with hearing, especially at the back of the group. The guides are praised for their knowledge and storytelling, making the experience both educational and engaging.

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Highlights of Key Attractions and Stops

Saint Bavo Cathedral: Located in Ghent, this cathedral is a must-see for art lovers, housing the famous Mystic Lamb painting. Its majestic architecture impresses visitors and provides a glimpse into Belgium’s religious artistry.

Castle of the Counts: This medieval fortress in Ghent offers an imposing presence, giving visitors a sense of the city’s feudal past. It’s a popular photo spot and a tangible reminder of the city’s historic significance.

Lake of Love: In Bruges, this peaceful waterway adds to the city’s romantic atmosphere. It’s a favorite stop where visitors can take photos or just enjoy the tranquil setting.

Begijnhof: Built in 1245, this convent complex features charming white houses and peaceful gardens, offering a quiet retreat amid the bustling streets.

Belfry Tower: Located in Market Square, the Belfry is a prominent landmark offering panoramic views of Bruges from the top—climbers should be prepared for a bit of a climb, but the scenery rewards the effort.

Canal Boat Ride: An optional €15 trip provides a relaxed cruise along Bruges’ historic canals, offering a different view of the city that many visitors find especially charming.

Practical Aspects of the Tour

The meeting point is outside the National Bank of Belgium, a convenient location within walking distance from Brussels Central Station. The tour includes air-conditioned transportation and a multilingual guide, with earphones provided to enhance communication.

Lunch is not included, but there are recommendations from guides and opportunities to purchase snacks during free time. Since entry tickets are not included, visitors should plan to pay for any museum or monument admissions they wish to visit.

The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues, due to the walking involved and cobblestone streets. Comfortable shoes are strongly recommended to navigate the historic streets and uneven surfaces.

Why This Tour Is a Good Fit for You

This organized day trip delivers a rundown of Ghent and Bruges, ideal for visitors with limited time who want to see the highlights. The guides are praised for their knowledge, with some reviews mentioning entertaining storytelling that deepens the experience.

The value for money is often highlighted, especially given the inclusion of guided tours, transportation, and earphones. The optional canal cruise adds a special touch, making the city exploration more relaxing and scenic.

However, travelers should be prepared for a lot of walking and large group dynamics, which may affect those seeking a more personal or leisurely experience. The lack of included entry tickets means additional expenses, but this allows flexibility based on individual interests.

Why You Might Consider Other Options

While the full-day guided experience is thorough, it does pack in a lot, which might feel rushed for some. If you prefer more free time or a more relaxed pace, a different tour with longer exploration periods might suit you better.

Some reviews mention occasional issues with audio range in large groups, so those who prioritize personal attention should consider private tours or smaller groups. Also, wheelchair accessibility is limited, so travelers with mobility aids should look elsewhere.

Final Takeaway: A Well-Organized Day of Flemish Charm

This Ghent and Bruges day tour from Brussels offers a solid introduction to two of Belgium’s most captivating cities. The guides are highly praised for their knowledge and storytelling, and the itinerary covers all the major sights including historic landmarks, scenic waterways, and charming squares.

While the pace is busy and walking is extensive, the value for money and rich content make this tour an excellent choice for first-time visitors or those short on time. The optional canal cruise adds a memorable touch for those wanting a different perspective of Bruges.

This tour provides a balanced mix of guided exploration and free time, making it a reliable, well-organized way to enjoy Belgium’s medieval beauty in a single day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch included in this tour?
No, lunch is not included. Travelers can grab a quick snack or follow the guide’s recommendations during free time.

Are entry tickets to attractions included?
No, entry tickets are not included, so additional expenses for museums or landmarks are necessary if you wish to visit them.

What is the meeting point?
The tour departs from outside the National Bank of Belgium, near Brussels Central Station.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, it is not suitable for wheelchair users or people with mobility impairments due to walking and cobblestone streets.

Can I join this tour with children?
While the tour is family-friendly, the extensive walking and standing may be tiring for young children. Bring comfortable shoes and be prepared for a full day.

Is the canal boat ride included?
No, the boat trip costs about €15 and is optional. It is well worth considering for the scenic views of Bruges’ waterways.

How long is the drive between Brussels and Ghent or Bruges?
The transfer between Brussels and each city takes approximately one hour each way.

What languages are available for guides?
Guides conduct the tour in English, Spanish, and French, depending on guest preference.

What should I bring for this tour?
Comfortable shoes are essential. Bring cash if you want to participate in the boat trip or visit attractions requiring admission.

How long does the tour last overall?
The full experience lasts about 10.5 hours, ending around 7:30 pm back in Brussels.

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