From Brussels: Full-Day Antwerp and Ghent Guided Tour

If you’re visiting Brussels and want to see more of Belgium’s stunning cities without the hassle of planning, this full-day guided tour to Antwerp and Ghent might just be your perfect fit. With a well-organized schedule, roundtrip transportation, and engaging guides, it promises a comprehensive taste of Flanders’ highlight reels—all in one 10-hour adventure.

What we really love about this experience? The seamless transportation and the knowledgeable guides, who bring the cities’ stories vividly to life. Plus, the amount of free time allotted in each city is generous enough to allow for personal exploration, which is often overlooked in day trips.

However, keep in mind that with a packed 10-hour day, your time in each city isn’t extensive—something to consider if you’re keen on museum-hopping or lingering over lunch. This tour suits travelers looking for a practical, budget-friendly way to cover two beautiful Belgian cities without the stress of independent planning.

Key Points

• All-in-one Day Trip: Visit both Antwerp and Ghent with expert guides, making logistics stress-free.
• Affordable Price: At around $53 per person, it offers great value considering the transportation, guides, and sightseeing.
• Flexible Free Time: Ample opportunities to explore on your own in each city, with restaurant tips included.
• Well-Organized Schedule: From the Atomium stop to city walks, the itinerary balances guided sightseeing and free time.
• Expert Guides: Many reviews highlight the guides’ knowledge, friendliness, and helpful tips.
• Comfortable Transport: Air-conditioned buses with USB chargers make the journey pleasant.

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Starting Point and First Stops: Brussels to Antwerp

The day kicks off early at 8:30 AM at Carrefour de l’Europe, conveniently located in the heart of Brussels, right outside the Gare Central. The guide, easily recognizable by their ID badge, ensures a smooth meet-up, which many reviewers appreciate—”It was easy to find our tour guide at the meeting point,” said one guest.

The first leg of the trip involves a 30-minute bus ride to the Atomium, one of Brussels’ most iconic landmarks. Here, you’ll have about 30 minutes to snap photos and enjoy the views—an excellent photo opportunity with the atom’s futuristic structure towering over the city. Reviewers have mentioned how this quick stop is a highlight, giving that perfect postcard shot and a bit of fun before diving into the Belgian cityscapes.

Next, you’ll head into Antwerp, where the guided part of the tour lasts about 1.5 hours. Here, your guide will lead you through key sights like the Meat Market, the historic Steen Castle, and the Town Hall Square—places that showcase Antwerp’s medieval charm. The Gothic-style Church of Our Lady is a highlight, especially for art lovers, since it’s home to masterpieces by Rubens.

Antwerp: Guided Highlights and Free Exploration

Many travelers rave about the guides’ storytelling skills. One review states, “Our guide was excellent and made sure we could all hear what she was saying, pointing out interesting landmarks and historical stories.” This is vital in a city like Antwerp, where history and architecture blend seamlessly.

After the guided tour, you’re given 1.5 hours to wander freely. This is your chance to hunt down some Belgian chocolates, browse boutique shops along Meir Street, or grab a quick lunch. Several reviews mention the value of this free time, with one guest noting, “Plenty of time for self exploration and restaurant recommendations from the guide.”

Transition to Ghent: A Cultural Feast

Following Antwerp, the bus makes its way to Ghent, a journey of around 1 hour. Ghent is often described as having a fairytale charm—think winding canals, medieval buildings, and lively squares. The guided tour here lasts likewise 1.5 hours, focusing on the St. Bavo’s Cathedral with its famous “Adoration of the Mystic Lamb” painting by the Van Eyck brothers—an artwork that consistently impresses visitors.

Other highlights include the Belfry Bell Tower, the Gothic and Renaissance Town Hall, and the Castle of the Counts of Flanders. Reviewers frequently mention how knowledgeable guides like Sabrina, Julian, and Sergio make the history come alive with captivating stories and helpful tips.

Free Time in Ghent and Returning to Brussels

After the guided tour, there’s another 1.5 hours of free time. Many travelers use this to stroll along the Wharf of the Herbs and Grain, explore local cafes, or simply soak in the city’s picturesque streets. Guests have appreciated the well-balanced schedule, allowing enough time to enjoy each city without feeling rushed.

The day wraps up with a 1.5-hour bus ride back to Brussels, arriving at the starting point around 7:30 PM. The coach is comfortable, often equipped with USB chargers, which keeps devices alive for photos or post-trip reflections.

Considering the price of around $53, this tour offers quite a lot—transport, expert guide, and a thoughtfully curated itinerary. Reviewers have repeatedly emphasized the quality of guides like Sabrina, Juliana, and Sergio, who not only share historical insights but also make the experience engaging and fun. One guest said, “The guide made it easy to hear and understand, even in busy spots,” which is crucial on a crowded day trip.

Food and drinks aren’t included, but the free time allows for spontaneous snacks or meals. Many travelers appreciate the guide’s restaurant suggestions, saving them from wandering aimlessly in unfamiliar cities.

The 10-hour duration is a good balance—long enough to see two cities properly, but not so packed that it becomes overwhelming. However, if you’re a museum aficionado or prefer to linger in a single city, this might feel a little rushed. Still, for most, the itinerary hits the sweet spot of sightseeing and free exploration.

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Highlights From Reviewers

• Knowledgeable guides: Many guests highlight how guides like Sabrina, Juliana, and Sergio make the history and landmarks accessible and interesting.
• Stunning sights: From Antwerp’s medieval castles to Ghent’s canals and the Van Eyck masterpiece, the visual highlights are numerous.
• Good value for money: The inclusion of transportation, guiding, and tips makes the price quite reasonable.
• Comfortable transportation: Buses with USB charging and air conditioning are especially appreciated after a long day.
• Flexible free time: Enough opportunity to explore local shops, cafes, or snap photos without feeling rushed.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive day exploring Belgium’s top cities without the hassle of organizing transport and guides themselves. It’s perfect for first-time visitors, solo travelers, or groups that prefer a structured, informative experience.

If you’re someone who enjoys historical sites, charming city streets, and local cuisine, you’ll find plenty to love here. Keep in mind, if you prefer a slower pace or more museum time, this might feel a bit hurried.

This full-day guided tour from Brussels to Antwerp and Ghent offers a fantastic way to see two of Belgium’s most photogenic and culturally rich cities in one day. With expert guides, a comfortable coach, and a balanced schedule of guided sightseeing and free time, it provides high value at a budget-friendly price.

It’s especially well-suited for those wanting an overview of Flanders’ highlights, with enough flexibility to explore on their own. The reviews consistently praise the guides’ knowledge and friendliness, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

For travelers eager to tick Belgium’s beautiful cities off their list without overextending themselves, this tour hits the mark. Just be prepared for a full, energetic day—and don’t forget your comfortable shoes!

What time does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at 8:30 AM and typically wraps up around 7:30 PM, including travel times, guided tours, and free exploration.

Where do I meet the guide in Brussels?
You’ll meet at Carrefour de l’Europe square, in front of the Hilton Grand Place hotel, under the columns of the main entrance of the train and metro station. The guide wears an ID badge from Buendia Tours.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s not recommended for people with mobility impairments. Children under 2 years old must travel in a car seat, so plan accordingly.

What’s included in the price?
Roundtrip bus transfers from Brussels, a professional guide, and guided tours of Antwerp and Ghent are included. Food and drinks are not.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours or no-shows are charged the full price.

Is there any free time in each city?
Yes, each city includes about 1.5 hours of free time, providing a chance to explore, shop, or grab a bite on your own.

This tour is an excellent choice for anyone eager to maximize their Belgium experience without the hassle of independent travel. It balances educational guided sightseeing with personal exploration, all at an accessible price point. Whether you’re fascinated by medieval architecture, art, or simply want to enjoy Belgian chocolate and waffles, this day trip has something for most travelers.

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