Full-Day City Tour of Ghent and Bruges From Brussels

Exploring the charming cities of Ghent and Bruges in a single day can be a thrilling adventure for time-pressed travelers. This guided tour from Brussels promises an immersive experience, guiding participants through the captivating Flemish architecture, historic harbors, and medieval landmarks that define these picturesque Belgian destinations. With the option to cruise the scenic canals of Bruges, the tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the cultural riches that await beyond the bustling capital.

Key Points

• This full-day tour offers a comprehensive sightseeing experience of the historic cities of Ghent and Bruges, departing from Brussels.
• Highlights include visiting St. Bavo’s Cathedral, Gravensteen Castle, and the Belfry of Bruges, as well as an optional canal boat cruise in Bruges.
• The tour is ideal for visitors with limited time, providing a small-group experience with a maximum of 15 participants.
• The tour includes transportation between the cities in an air-conditioned vehicle and free time to explore the cities and sample local cuisine.
• The meeting point is at Carrefour de l’Europe, under Brussel-Centraal station, with the tour starting at 8:30 AM.

Tour Overview

This full-day city tour offers visitors a chance to explore two of Belgium’s most captivating destinations – Ghent and Bruges – in a single day.

The tour is ideal for those with limited time, providing a rundown of both cities. Led by a knowledgeable guide, the small-group experience (max 15 participants) ensures personalized attention.

Travelers can upgrade to include a boat trip, adding another dimension to the Bruges leg of the journey. The tour departs from Brussels and returns to the same meeting point, delivering a convenient and efficient way to experience these historic Belgian cities.

Tour Highlights

The tour begins with a visit to the medieval city of Ghent, known for its impressive architecture and rich history.

The medieval city of Ghent, renowned for its impressive architecture and rich history, is the first stop on the tour.

Highlights include:

• Admiring the St. Bavo’s Cathedral, a masterpiece of Flemish architecture

• Exploring the Graslei and Korenlei, historic harbor-side areas lined with guild houses

• Wandering through the picturesque Patershol neighborhood with its charming streets and cafes

• Visiting the Gravensteen, an imposing medieval castle that provides panoramic views of the city

• Discovering the lively Korenmarkt square, the heart of Ghent’s historical center

After Ghent, the tour continues to the fairytale-like city of Bruges, renowned for its canals, cobblestone streets, and well-preserved medieval buildings.

Ghent Exploration

After departing Brussels, the tour begins its exploration of the medieval city of Ghent. Guests first visit St. Bavo’s Cathedral, a stunning example of Flemish architecture.

They then stroll through the Graslei and Korenlei harbors, admiring the picturesque guild houses and medieval buildings lining the river.

The tour continues to the Gravensteen, a well-preserved 12th-century castle that dominates the city’s skyline. Participants have free time to wander the charming streets, sample local cuisine, and visit the Belfry of Ghent, offering panoramic views of the historic center.

The tour then departs for the next destination, Bruges.

Bruges Discovery

Leaving Ghent behind, the tour next arrives in the picturesque city of Bruges, renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture and charming canals.

Participants will explore the city’s highlights, including:

• The Markt, a lively central square surrounded by historic guild houses

• The Belfry of Bruges, a medieval bell tower offering panoramic views

• The Basilica of the Holy Blood, which houses a revered relic

• A tranquil boat cruise along the city’s picturesque waterways

• The chance to sample Belgian chocolates and waffles in local shops

The guide provides insights into Bruges’ rich history and culture, ensuring a well-rounded experience for visitors.

Boat Trip Option

Although the standard tour of Ghent and Bruges already offers a comprehensive experience, visitors can opt to enhance their journey with a boat trip along Bruges’ picturesque canals.

This optional add-on provides a unique perspective of the medieval city, allowing travelers to admire its historical architecture and charming waterways from the comfort of a boat.

The cruise typically lasts around 30 minutes and is led by a knowledgeable guide who shares insights about the city’s rich heritage.

Upgrading to include the boat trip is a popular choice for those seeking a more immersive exploration of Bruges.

Meeting Point and Logistics

The tour departs from the Carrefour de l’Europe, located under the columns of Brussel-Centraal station, in front of the Hilton Grand Place hotel.

The tour starts promptly at 8:30 AM and ends back at the same meeting point. Participants should arrive on time as the tour can’t wait for late-comers.

The tour is non-refundable, and cancellations don’t guarantee a refund. The tour accommodates a maximum of 90 travelers per group.

Key logistics:

• Meeting point: Carrefour de l’Europe, under the columns of Brussel-Centraal station

• Start time: 8:30 AM

• End location: Back at the meeting point

• Non-refundable, no cancellation refunds

• Maximum 90 travelers per tour

Tour Inclusions

The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle to transport travelers between the two cities.

A knowledgeable guide accompanies the group, providing insights and historical context throughout the day.

The tour is limited to a maximum of 15 participants, ensuring personalized attention.

With a cap of just 15 travelers, the tour guarantees an intimate, personalized experience for all participants.

An optional boat trip in Bruges is available for an additional fee, allowing visitors to experience the city’s picturesque canals.

The inclusions aim to provide a comfortable and informative sightseeing experience, despite the tour’s compact nature.

While some past travelers have noted minor issues, the overall value of the experience is highlighted in the positive reviews.

Reviews and Ratings

Based on the tour overview and inclusions, the tour has received positive reviews and a solid rating.

Out of 3 reviews, the tour boasts a 4.7 rating.

Key highlights from the reviews include:

• Knowledgeable and informative guides

• Overall positive experience for passengers

• Good value for the price

Critiques include some discomfort on the bus and lack of communication about headphone requirements.

Reviews emphasize the tour’s efficiency in visiting two major cities in one day, ideal for those with limited time.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour from Brussels provides an excellent opportunity to experience the historical and cultural charms of Ghent and Bruges. Visitors can explore Ghent’s stunning Flemish architecture, medieval castle, and historic harbor, then enjoy Bruges’ picturesque canals, lively market square, and renowned culinary offerings. With the option to take a boat cruise, this small-group tour offers a comprehensive introduction to two of Belgium’s most enchanting cities.