Antwerp and Ghent Day Trip From Brussels With Atomium Photo Stop

Exploring the historic cities of Antwerp and Ghent from Brussels makes for an enriching day trip. Visitors will wander through Antwerp’s stunning Gothic cathedral and bustling streets before discovering Ghent’s medieval castle and iconic belfry. After seeing the cultural gems of these Flemish cities, travelers can cap off the experience with a visit to the iconic Atomium, capturing unforgettable photos. The comprehensive tour offers an opportunity to uncover the captivating sights and stories that define the lowlands region.

Key Points

• A guided day trip from Brussels to the historic cities of Antwerp and Ghent, including a photo stop at the iconic Atomium structure.
• Explore the cathedrals, town halls, and medieval fortresses of Antwerp and Ghent during walking tours led by professional English-speaking guides.
• Enjoy free time to discover the local shops, cafes, and vibrant atmospheres of both cities.
• Take in the breathtaking views of Brussels from the Atomium, a unique modernist structure built for the 1958 World’s Fair.
• Roundtrip transportation is provided via air-conditioned coach, with a maximum group size of 45 for a personalized experience.

Overview of the Tour

The Antwerp and Ghent Day Trip from Brussels with Atomium Photo Stop is a popular sightseeing tour that allows visitors to explore two of Belgium’s historic cities in a single day.

Departing from central Brussels, the tour includes guided walking tours of Antwerp and Ghent, showcasing their cathedrals, town halls, and other iconic landmarks.

Travelers also enjoy a photo stop at the Atomium, a unique steel structure landmark.

The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, with round-trip transportation, professional English-speaking guides, and free time for independent exploration, dining, and shopping in each city.

Exploring Antwerp

The tour begins with a scenic drive from Brussels to the historic city of Antwerp.

Upon arrival, the group embarks on a guided walking tour, exploring the city’s architectural gems. The towering Cathedral of Our Lady dominates the skyline, featuring ornate Gothic spires.

The group also visits the Town Hall, a Renaissance masterpiece with intricate façades.

Between sights, travelers enjoy free time to stroll the charming streets, browse local shops, and savor Belgian delicacies.

The guide provides recommendations for the best places to enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere and sample the renowned Antwerp cuisine.

Discovering Ghent

After exploring the historic landmarks of Antwerp, the group makes its way to the charming city of Ghent.

The guide leads them to the Castle of Gerald the Devil, an imposing medieval fortress. Next, they visit the iconic Ghent Belfry, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Wandering through the Old Fish Market, the travelers marvel at the city’s well-preserved architecture. The guided walking tour provides insights into Ghent’s rich history and culture.

With free time to explore, the group discovers cozy cafes, artisanal shops, and the lively atmosphere that makes Ghent a popular destination.

Visiting the Atomium

When does the group make a photo stop at the iconic Atomium?

After exploring the historic cities of Antwerp and Ghent, the tour pauses at the renowned Atomium landmark in Brussels.

This modernist structure, built for the 1958 World’s Fair, offers breathtaking views across the city.

Travelers can capture memorable photos of the 335-foot tall stainless steel spheres against the Brussels skyline.

The guide provides insights into the Atomium’s remarkable engineering and significance as a symbol of scientific progress.

This brief interlude allows participants to stretch their legs and admire one of Belgium’s most iconic architectural marvels before continuing their journey.

Transportation and Guide Services

As part of the day trip, round-trip transportation from central Brussels is provided via a comfortable, air-conditioned coach.

The tour is guided by an English-speaking professional who shares insights and recommendations throughout the journey. The coach has a maximum capacity of 45 travelers, though the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Infants must sit on laps, and children under 2 require a car seat. At the end of the day, the tour returns to the original meeting point in central Brussels, providing a seamless experience from start to finish.

Meeting and Pickup Details

The meeting point for the day trip is at Carrefour de l’Europe, under the columns at the main entrance of the train and metro station, in front of the Hilton Grand Place hotel.

The tour departs promptly at 8:30 am, so participants should arrive early. At the end of the day, the group returns to the same meeting point.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps, with children under 2 requiring a car seat.

The maximum group size is 45 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience with the knowledgeable English-speaking guide.

Traveler Feedback and Recommendations

According to traveler reviews, many participants praised the overall organization and knowledgeable guides leading the day trip.

Visitors appreciated recommendations for local dining and the opportunity to explore the historic cities of Antwerp and Ghent.

However, some constructive criticism was provided. A few travelers noted the length of the tour and pacing issues, suggesting more free time and improved guide communication techniques.

Plus, the need for shaded areas during walking tours was mentioned.

What to Expect on the Day Trip

Travelers embarking on this day trip from Brussels can expect a well-planned itinerary that showcases the architectural and historical highlights of Antwerp and Ghent. The tour begins with a photo stop at the iconic Atomium, followed by guided walking tours in both cities. In Antwerp, visitors will admire the Cathedral of Our Lady and the Town Hall, while in Ghent, they can explore the Castle of Gerald the Devil and the Ghent Belfry. Throughout the day, travelers will have ample free time to explore, dine, and shop at their own pace.

Feature	Description
Transportation	Comfortable, air-conditioned coach with a maximum of 45 travelers
Guidance	Professional, English-speaking guide providing recommendations
Attractions	Guided tours of Antwerp and Ghent’s top sights
Free Time	Opportunities to explore, eat, and shop independently

Frequently Asked Questions

Can We Visit Additional Cities on the Tour?

The tour primarily focuses on visiting Antwerp and Ghent, but it doesn’t explicitly mention the option to visit additional cities. Travelers should check with the tour provider to see if any modifications or add-ons are available.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour provider doesn’t offer any discounts for seniors or students. However, children under 2 can join the tour for free as long as they sit on a parent’s lap during the bus ride.

Can We Adjust the Duration of Free Time in Each City?

The tour duration and free time in each city can be adjusted to suit individual preferences. Customers can discuss their needs with the tour operator, who may be able to accommodate reasonable requests within the tour’s overall schedule.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour to Include Dinner?

The tour doesn’t currently offer an option to extend it for dinner, but this could be a valuable add-on for travelers seeking a more comprehensive experience. Extending the tour length would allow time for an evening meal in one of the cities.

Are There Any Restrictions on Bringing Food or Drinks on the Coach?

The tour does not allow bringing food or drinks on the coach, except for bottled water. Passengers are advised to consume any meals or snacks before or after the tour. Restrictions help maintain a clean and comfortable travel experience.

The Sum Up

This day trip from Brussels offers a captivating glimpse into Belgium’s historic cities of Antwerp and Ghent. Travelers will explore iconic landmarks, enjoy rich culture, and capture stunning photos at the Atomium. With guided walking tours and efficient transportation, this tour provides an engaging and well-rounded experience for visitors looking to discover the best of these two charming destinations.