From Brussels: Day Trip to Ghent with Atomium

Explore Ghent’s Well-Preserved Medieval Charm in a Full-Day Trip from Brussels

This day trip to Ghent offers a comprehensive look at one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval cities. Organized by BUENDIA TOURS, the tour lasts 9 hours, starting with a visit to the Atomium in Brussels and concluding with a guided exploration of Ghent’s historic core. The tour is perfect for those interested in history, architecture, and Belgian culture, all led by a knowledgeable Spanish-speaking guide.

What makes this trip stand out is the combination of site visits, guided commentary, and ample free time to discover Ghent at your own pace. It’s well-suited for travelers who want a balanced blend of structured sightseeing and personal exploration, with the added convenience of bus transfer from Brussels. A key highlight for many is the expert guide, praised for their engaging storytelling and travel tips.

While the tour does not include food or drinks, the 4 hours of free time allow for a relaxed lunch and some casual wandering. Travelers should note that mobility impairments are not accommodated, and comfortable shoes are recommended given the walking involved. This trip offers a rich, well-organized experience to uncover Ghent’s historic splendors.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Full-day adventure lasting approximately 9 hours from Brussels to Ghent and back
• Includes a guided tour in Spanish of Ghent’s top sights and 4 hours of free time for dining and exploration
• Begins with a visit to the Atomium, a Belgian icon, before heading to Ghent
• Features visits to medieval landmarks like the Castle of Gerald the Devil, St. Bavo’s Cathedral, and the Belfry of Ghent
• Stops at notable sites such as St. Nicholas Church, Masons Guild Hall, and the Graslei quay
• Optional Flemish food tasting or beer at Dulle Griet during free time
• Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking on cobbled streets and historic sites
• The guide’s friendly and engaging approach is highly praised in reviews
• Not suitable for travelers with mobility impairments

Starting Point and Transport Logistics

The tour departs from Carrefour de l’Europe, located in front of the Hilton Grand Place Hotel at Brussels Central Station. You board the bus at the scheduled time, with the guide wearing ID of Buendia Tours for easy identification. Travel time from Brussels to Ghent is approximately 1.5 hours, with a stop at the Atomium in Brussels en route.

The return journey also lasts about 1.5 hours, and the tour concludes back at the initial meeting point. The convenience of bus transfer removes the hassle of finding transportation independently, making it a stress-free day for visitors.

Visiting the Atomium in Brussels

The tour kicks off with a stoppage at the Atomium, a striking monument standing over 100 meters (328 ft) tall. The guide explains the significance of the nine spheres, each about 18 meters (59 ft) in diameter, representing the nine provinces of Belgium. This iconic structure, built for the 1958 Brussels Expo, provides a perfect photo opportunity and a brief introduction to Belgium’s modern architectural heritage.

Discovering Ghent with a Spanish-Speaking Guide

Once in Ghent, the guided tour focuses on the city’s medieval history and architecture. The Castle of Gerald the Devil, dating from the 13th century, stands out as a key landmark. The guide shares stories about Ghent’s past as a trading hub, adding context to the St. Bavo’s Cathedral where The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb by the Van Eyck brothers is displayed.

The Belfry of Ghent, with its impressive tiered structure, offers insights into the city’s civic pride. You’ll also visit the Town Hall, the St. Nicholas Church, and the Masons Guild Hall, each revealing different facets of Ghent’s medieval craftsmanship and urban development.

More Great Tours Nearby

Exploring the Quays and Medieval Commerce Sites

The Graslei quay, lined with historic guild houses and trading buildings, provides a picturesque view of Ghent’s trading history. Nearby, the Great Butchers Hall, the Old Fish Market, and the Friday Market showcase Ghent’s vibrant marketplace past. These locations reflect the city’s longstanding role as a center of commerce and craftsmanship.

Free Time for Lunch and Personal Exploration

After the guided tour, travelers have about 4 hours of free time. This interval is ideal for tasting Flemish cuisine at local cafes or trying regional beers at the Dulle Griet pub. The time also allows for leisurely strolls through Patershol, a historic neighborhood with charming streets and boutique shops, or simply relaxing by the canals.

Medieval Fortress and Neighborhood Charm

The Gravensteen castle, a prominent medieval fortress, is a highlight of Ghent’s historic sites. The Patershol neighborhood nearby is appreciated for its narrow streets, traditional houses, and cozy atmosphere. These areas give a tangible sense of Ghent’s medieval and early modern past, making them popular spots for exploration during free time.

Practical Aspects: Accessibility and Tips

The tour emphasizes comfortable shoes due to cobblestone streets and historic site floors. Because mobility impairments are not accommodated, travelers should consider their walking ability before booking. The guide’s friendly and knowledgeable style enhances the experience, with reviews highlighting their engaging storytelling and useful travel tips.

Since food and drinks are not included, plan to bring some snacks or enjoy the local eateries during your free time. The flexible booking options allow cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind for last-minute plans or schedule changes.

The Value and Overall Experience of the Tour

This 9-hour guided trip offers a detailed look at Ghent’s medieval architecture, history, and trading heritage. The inclusion of a professional Spanish-speaking guide is a major plus, delivering insights and stories that bring the city’s attractions to life. The 4 hours of free time balance guided sightseeing with personal exploration, making the experience adaptable to individual interests.

The tour’s high rating of 4.7 from 166 reviews reflects consistent satisfaction, especially praising the guide’s personality and knowledge. The bus transfer from Brussels adds convenience, making it a practical choice for those looking to maximize their day without logistical worries.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This trip is ideal for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and anyone interested in Belgian culture. The guided tour in Spanish caters specifically to Spanish-speaking visitors seeking an immersive experience. Given the moderate walking involved, it’s best suited for travelers comfortable on their feet but not equipped for those with mobility challenges.

In summary, the From Brussels: Day Trip to Ghent with Atomium delivers a well-rounded, informative, and relaxed way to experience one of Belgium’s most captivating medieval cities. The combination of guided commentary, historic sites, and free time means visitors leave with both a sense of Ghent’s past and the freedom to explore its present.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, bus transfer from Brussels to Ghent and back is included.

How long is the guided tour in Ghent?
The guided tour lasts approximately 2 hours.

Can I visit the Atomium during this trip?
The Atomium is included as a stopping point at the start of the day before heading to Ghent.

Is food included in the tour?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there is 4 hours of free time for lunch or snacks.

How much free time do I get in Ghent?
You receive about 4 hours to explore, dine, or relax on your own.

What are the main attractions visited in Ghent?
Key sites include St. Bavo’s Cathedral, Belfry of Ghent, Castle of Gerald the Devil, Patershol neighborhood, and Gravensteen castle.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It is not suitable for mobility impairments; children under 2 need a car seat.

What is the tour guide’s language?
The guide speaks Spanish.

How do I meet the tour?
Meet in front of the Hilton Grand Place Hotel at Brussels Central Station; the guide wears Buendia Tours ID.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, full refund available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby