Private Tour: Ghent and Bruges From Brussels Full Day

Explore Two Belgian Medieval Cities in One Day

This full-day private tour takes you from Brussels to the picturesque towns of Ghent and Bruges for an in-depth experience of Belgium’s most well-preserved medieval architecture. Priced at $806.36 per person, the tour offers a personalized journey with private transportation, hotel pickup, and entrance to key sites like St Michael’s Church. With an average booking time of 71 days in advance, this tour is popular among travelers seeking a comprehensive day trip.

The 8-hour itinerary allows ample time to explore each city’s most iconic landmarks and hidden corners. While the tour includes many highlights, it is best suited for those who appreciate guided insights, scenic stops, and the flexibility to customize visits. The tour’s strong reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and organized pacing as major strengths, though the long drive may be less appealing for some.

Key Points

• Private, fully customizable day trip to Ghent and Bruges from Brussels
• Includes entrance to St Michael’s Church and hotel pickup
• Cost of $806.36 per person, with group discounts available
• Approximately 8 hours, with plenty of time for photos and sightseeing
• Highlights include Minnewater Lake, Basilica of the Holy Blood, Gravensteen Castle, and scenic canals
• Guides praised for their knowledge and friendly manner

From Brussels to Ghent: Visiting St Michael’s Church

The tour begins with a visit to St Michael’s Church in Ghent, a striking Gothic building constructed in the 15th century. The guide walks you through its remarkable architecture and historical significance, providing context about its role in Ghent’s medieval past.

Admission to St Michael’s Church is included in the tour, allowing you to admire its famous architecture without extra cost. The stop lasts about 30 minutes, giving you enough time to explore the interior and exterior while learning about its place in Ghent’s history.

Discover the Princely Beguinage in Bruges

Next, the tour moves to Bruges’ Princely Beguinage—a peaceful, historic site established in the 13th century. This area once hosted Beguines, women living in a semi-religious community dedicated to prayer and charity. Today, the Beguinage offers a tranquil glimpse into Belgium’s religious heritage and medieval life.

This stop is free of charge, and visitors can wander through the cloisters and gardens, enjoying the quiet atmosphere. It’s an ideal place for photos and reflecting on the history of religious communities in the region.

Enjoy the Scenic Beauty of Minnewater Lake

In Bruges, Minnewater Lake—also known as the Lake of Love—serves as a scenic highlight. Surrounded by lush greenery and historic buildings, the serene waters offer a peaceful break from city sightseeing. The lake has a legendary backstory of young lovers, and its stunning reflections are especially captivating at sunset.

While admission is not included, this 30-minute stop provides an excellent opportunity to snap photos, stroll along the waterfront, or relax in Minnewater Park.

Visit the Gothic Splendor of St. Bavo’s Cathedral

In Ghent, the tour includes a visit to the St. Bavo’s Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece completed in the Gothic style. Known for its impressive façade and historical art, the cathedral is a must-see for its religious significance and artistic treasures.

Admission to St. Bavo’s Cathedral is not included in the tour, but the 30-minute visit allows visitors to admire its famous stained glass, altars, and Gothic architecture.

The Basilica of the Holy Blood in Bruges

A highlight in Bruges is the Basilica of the Holy Blood, located on Burg Square. This religious site houses a vial of relics believed to contain a drop of Christ’s blood. The basilica’s stunning architecture and history make it an essential stop for those interested in Christian relics.

While admission is not included, the 30-minute visit allows for appreciation of its ornate interior and spiritual significance.

Wandering Along Ghent’s Graslei and Korenlei Streets

Ghent’s Graslei and Korenlei are picturesque streets lining the River Lys. These streets feature colorful historic buildings, medieval warehouses, and quaint cafés. They capture Ghent’s vibrant history and current lively atmosphere.

The tour’s 30-minute stop here is free, making it perfect for strolling, photo opportunities, or simply soaking in the medieval ambiance.

Exploring Ghent’s Gravensteen Castle

The Gravensteen, a medieval castle in Ghent, is another free stop included in the tour. This well-preserved fortress offers a glimpse into medieval military architecture and noble life. Visitors can walk through towers, dungeons, and castle walls, gaining insights into Ghent’s feudal past.

The 30-minute visit provides plenty of time to explore on your own and enjoy the panoramic views of the city from the castle walls.

The Iconic Windmills of Bruges

Adding to the city’s charm are Bruges’ historic windmills. These well-maintained structures once served agricultural purposes like milling grain and pumping water. Today, they are popular photo spots and represent Bruges’ medieval past.

Though not a scheduled stop, viewing the windmills from the city offers a visual reminder of Bruges’ historic landscape.

The Practicalities: Transport and Personalization

This private tour provides air-conditioned minivan transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off, simplifying logistics for visitors. The private vehicle ensures a comfortable and flexible experience, while the group discounts make it accessible for groups.

The tour is designed to be personalized—guests are encouraged to speak up during the day to visit specific sites or spend more time at favored locations. This flexibility is a major advantage, especially for those wanting a customized experience.

Review Highlights and Considerations

The overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 reflects positive feedback on the knowledgeable guides, organized pacing, and scenic stops. Many reviews praise guides like Henry, Eric, Andrea, and Mary for their expertise, friendly manner, and ability to adapt to individual interests.

However, some reviews mention long drives and late pick-ups, which may affect those sensitive to extended travel times. Also, entrance fees to St Bavo’s Cathedral, Basilica of the Holy Blood, and other sites are not included in the tour price, so budget accordingly.

Final Thoughts on the Ghent and Bruges Full-Day Tour

This private tour offers a comprehensive, personalized experience of two of Belgium’s most beautiful medieval towns. With expert guides, scenic stops, and flexible scheduling, it suits travelers who want a deep dive into history without the hassle of planning every detail.

The $806.36 price point reflects the luxury of private transportation, entrance fees, and customization, making it a value for those eager to see both cities comfortably. The positive reviews confirm that knowledgeable guides and careful organization make this tour a memorable choice.

Ideal for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and those short on time, this trip offers a balanced mix of guided insight and free time to explore at your own pace.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making the experience seamless from start to finish.

How long is the tour?
The entire tour lasts approximately 8 hours, allowing time for sightseeing, photos, and some free exploration.

Are entrance fees to sites included?
The tour includes entrance to St Michael’s Church, but not to St Bavo’s Cathedral or the Basilica of the Holy Blood. These are additional costs.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, the tour is private and tailored to your interests. Travelers are encouraged to speak up about specific sites they want to prioritize.

What’s the best time to book?
The tour is most often booked 71 days in advance, so early planning is recommended for better availability.

What are the main highlights?
Key highlights include Ghent’s Gravensteen Castle, Minnewater Lake, St Bavo’s Cathedral, Bruges’ Princely Beguinage, and scenic canals and windmills.