Bruges and Ghent Day Trip from Brussels

Exploring Bruges and Ghent in a single day becomes straightforward and enjoyable with this day trip from Brussels priced at $54.65 per person. The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, starting at 8:30 am with round-trip transportation in a comfortable bus. It is especially suited for those who want to see these UNESCO-listed cities without the hassle of planning logistics or navigating public transport.

This tour includes professional guides who lead you through guided walking tours at each city’s most iconic sites, offering insights into their history and heritage. The experience balances structured sightseeing with free time, giving travelers a chance to soak in the atmosphere and enjoy personal exploration. A few reviews mention the pace can be brisk, and the toilet situation on the bus may be a concern, but overall, the value and coverage make this trip a popular choice for visitors in Brussels.

Key Points

• Cost-effective full-day trip covering both Bruges and Ghent for $54.65.
• Includes guided walking tours of top attractions like Saint Bavo Cathedral and Walplein Square.
• Round-trip transportation from central Brussels with air-conditioned buses.
• Approximate 10 hours of sightseeing, with around 1.5 hours of free time in each city.
• Expert guides provide insightful commentary on each city’s history and legends.
• Good for travelers who want a guided experience but also time to explore independently.

Starting Point and Transportation Logistics in Brussels

The tour begins at Carrefour de l’Europe in Brussels at 8:30 am. The bus departs from this central location, making it accessible for most travelers using public transport. The round-trip journey is in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, enabling a smooth start and return.

Travelers should be aware that toilets are not available on the bus, so plan accordingly, especially for those with health considerations. The group size typically reaches up to 45 people, which helps maintain a lively atmosphere but can also mean a larger crowd during stops.

Exploring Bruges: From Minnewater to Grote Markt

The day in Bruges starts with a brief 10-minute stop at Bargeplein, where the group gathers before heading to Minnewater, the “Lake of Love”. Here, the guide explains the city’s romantic legend and history. This is a perfect spot for photos with the beautiful lake in the background.

Next, the tour visits the Begijnhof, a historic site founded in 1245, showcasing the story of a remarkable group of women. Chocolate tasting at Chocolalino follows, in one of the few certified artisan shops, where visitors learn to distinguish handmade chocolates from industrial ones.

The walk continues through Walplein Square, where the guide shares insights into Bruges’ beer culture. The medieval architecture gets attention on Stoofstraat, where travelers learn to identify original medieval houses. Visiting Saint John’s Hospital and Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk, home to Michelangelo’s Madonna and Child, offers both historical and artistic highlights.

The Gruuthusemuseum provides a glimpse into the life of Bruges’ most influential families in the 17th and 18th centuries. The legend of St. Bonifacius Bridge and the famous Rozenhoedkaai (Pier of the Roses) are stops that invite photo opportunities and storytelling.

In Tanners’ Square, visitors learn about medieval tanners, followed by exploration of Burg Square, where the Gothic Town Hall and Basilica of the Holy Blood are located. The Market Square marks the end of the guided tour with explanations of the buildings around and tips for local dining and shopping.

Free time of about 1.5 hours allows visitors to lunch, shop, or relax before returning to the bus. The group then departs for Ghent.

Discovering Ghent: Walking Tour of Medieval Marvels

Arriving in Ghent, one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval cities, the tour begins with a 5-minute walk to the Town Hall, where the guide explains the building’s architectural styles. The Het Belfort van Ghent follows, with stories about its famous dragon and history.

The St. Bavo’s Cathedral stands out as a central highlight. Visitors see the famous painting of The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb by the van Eyck brothers, which, despite a small fee, is noted as an important artwork. The guide discusses the church’s architecture and its role in Ghent’s history.

Other stops include Saint Nicholas Church, the Masons’ Guild Hall, and Korenmarkt, where the history of the old post office building is shared. The Saint Michael’s Bridge offers excellent photo opportunities and stories about the tower of Saint Michael’s Church.

The Graslei and Korenlei along the Lys River reveal picturesque views of medieval buildings, including the Masons Guild House and the Marriott Hotel, perfect for photo capturing. The tour continues with OOOST, the site of the historic Great Butchers’ Market, and a quick stop at Kleine Vismarkt to learn about Ghent’s famous cuberdons (conical candies).

The final stop, Sint-Veerleplein Square, is where the guide shares stories about the square and gives tips on local pubs and shops. Free time of roughly 1 hour follows, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace.

The bus departs Ghent promptly at the scheduled time, returning travelers to Brussels with plenty of memories and photos.

Pacing and Tour Experience

The tour is designed to cover a significant amount of ground in both cities, with guided walks accompanied by informative commentary. The guide’s storytelling, often praised as knowledgeable and engaging, helps bring the historical sites to life.

Timing can be tight, especially during the Bruges segment, where some reviews note the brisk pace and limited free exploration time. The Ghent tour tends to feel slightly more relaxed and better paced, with more ample time for sightseeing and personal activities.

Walking distances are considerable, and the group size can make crowd navigation challenging during busy stops. Travelers should be prepared for miles of walking and high-paced sightseeing.

Food, Free Time, and Additional Tips

The tour does not include meals or drinks, but guides are happy to recommend local eateries. The Chocolate tasting in Bruges is short but provides a hands-on experience with artisan chocolates.

Free time in each city allows for lunch, shopping, or sightseeing at your own pace. In Bruges, the free time can be less than 2 hours, which might be tight for a sit-down meal or extended exploration, so planning ahead is advisable.

Travelers should dress appropriately for weather conditions and wear comfortable shoes due to the miles of walking involved. The bus is equipped with air-conditioning but lacks a toilet, so plan for breaks accordingly.

Final Thoughts on Bruges and Ghent Day Trip

This full-day tour offers a rundown of two of Belgium’s most beautiful cities. With expert guides, insightful commentary, and sufficient free time, it appeals to those eager to see iconic sites without the hassle of independent travel.

While some reviews mention a brisk pace and crowded stops, the overall experience remains positive and value-packed. The price point and logistical convenience make it a popular choice for visitors staying in Brussels who want a well-organized day exploring medieval architecture, art, and legends of Bruges and Ghent.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $54.65 per person, covering transportation and guided sightseeing.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 10 hours, starting at 8:30 am and returning to Brussels later in the day.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Carrefour de l’Europe in Brussels and ends back at the same meeting point.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but guides are happy to suggest local places for lunch.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the bus is air-conditioned and designed for group travel, with up to 45 travelers.

Are there any restrictions on accessibility?
The tour involves a lot of walking, so travelers with mobility issues should consider this before booking.

Can I use my own headphones?
Yes, travelers can use their own headphones with a 3.5 mm jack; disposable headphones are available for $1.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour operates in all weather conditions. If canceled due to bad weather, a full refund or alternative date is offered.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made around 35 days in advance; early reservations are recommended to secure a spot.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children under 2 years old must travel in a car seat on the bus. The pace and walking distance should be considered for younger children.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, full cancellation is possible up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.