From Brussels: Ghent and Bruges Day Tour

Traveling through Belgium’s Flanders region offers some of the most picturesque and historic sights in Europe. A popular way to experience both Ghent and Bruges in one day is via a guided tour from Brussels, and this one consistently earns high praise with a 4.6/5 rating from over 7,200 reviews. Whether you’re short on time but eager to see these gems or want a hassle-free way to explore with expert commentary, this tour provides a compelling option.

What we love most is how it balances structured sightseeing with enough free time for personal exploration. Plus, the guides seem to know their stuff, delivering historical insights with humor and passion. A potential downside is the lengthy day—at around 10.5 hours, it’s quite packed, so if you prefer a more relaxed pace, you might find it intense. But if you’re eager to tick off two stunning cities in one go, especially in a cost-effective manner, this tour could be your best bet.

Designed for travelers who want an overview of Belgium’s highlights without the hassle of planning, this trip suits those interested in history, architecture, and authentic local atmosphere. It’s also perfect for visitors with limited time or travelers who appreciate engaging guides and well-organized logistics.

Key Points

• Well-Organized & Efficient: Combines guided tours and free time, maximizing sightseeing in one day.
• Excellent Guides: Reviewers consistently praise guides like Stefan, Nico, and Jan for their knowledge and storytelling.
• Comfortable Transport: Air-conditioned coaches with radios and earphones ensure you stay comfortable and connected.
• Incredible Cities: Experience Ghent’s medieval charm and Bruges’ fairy-tale streets, canals, and historic sites.
• Value for Money: At approximately $54, the tour includes transportation and guided walks, which many reviewers find very reasonable.
• Additional Options: Optional boat trips in Bruges are available, offering a different view of the city’s waterways.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Transport

The journey begins outside the National Bank of Belgium in Brussels, a central and easy-to-reach meeting spot. After assembling with other travelers, you’ll board a comfortable, air-conditioned coach with radios and earphones—an essential for keeping everyone in the loop during busy city streets. The transfer to Ghent takes about an hour, giving you a moment to settle in, chat with fellow travelers, or review your itinerary.

Exploring Ghent

Once in Ghent, the day kicks off with a guided walk through the city’s medieval heart. You’ll visit the Saint Bavo Cathedral, home to the world-famous “Adoration of the Mystic Lamb” painting, a highlight for art lovers and history buffs alike. The cathedral’s soaring ceilings and detailed interior make it a must-see.

From there, you’ll explore the historic port of Graslei, with its charming guild houses lining the river—a perfect spot for photos or simply soaking in the lively atmosphere. The Castle of the Counts looms nearby, offering a glimpse into medieval nobility, while hidden corners like the Great Butchers’ Hall reveal the city’s working-class past.

Reviewers love how guides share stories about these sites, making the history come alive. “Our guide Stefan was incredible—his storytelling skills and humor made the city’s past truly engaging,” shares one guest.

Free Time in Ghent

After the guided tour, there’s about 45 minutes of free time. Many guests take this opportunity to sit at a local café or stroll along the canals. Some reviewers mention that the balance of guided exploration and free wandering is just right, allowing for a personal taste of the city’s vibrant life.

Transition to Bruges

Next, a coach ride of about an hour takes you to Bruges, often described as a fairytale setting. The atmosphere here is instantly magical, with cobbled streets, historic buildings, and picturesque waterways that earned Bruges the nickname “Venice of the North.”

Exploring Bruges

Your guided walk features Our Lady’s Church, where Michelangelo’s Madonna sculpture is housed, and the Old St. John’s Hospital, dating back to the 11th century. The Market Square (Grote Markt) is the heart of the city, crowned by the Belfry Tower, which you can choose to climb for panoramic views or simply admire from below.

One of the highlight experiences, especially praised in reviews, is the optional canal boat trip. Many travelers find this a wonderful way to see the city from a different perspective. It costs about €15 and is often booked through the guide, who also helps you skip queues—something many reviewers appreciated.

Lunch and Free Exploration

Lunch opportunities are flexible—either quick bites or recommendations from your guide. Some reviewers mention indulging in Belgian chocolates and local delicacies while strolling through the quaint streets. You’ll also pass through areas like the former Red Light District, which some find fascinating, and discover hidden boutiques and cafes.

Return to Brussels

The tour wraps up with a coach ride back to Brussels around 7:30 PM, coming full circle from a day packed with sights and stories. Travelers often reflect that the trip feels “well-paced,” with enough time to truly enjoy each city without feeling rushed.

Real Experiences from Reviewers

Many praise the guides for their storytelling—Jan, Stefan, Nico, Josephine, and others. One reviewer raved, “Stefan was incredibly knowledgeable and funny, making the long day fly by,” while another appreciated Josephine’s bilingual expertise, saying, “She explained everything very clearly in both English and Spanish.”

The value of this tour is also a recurring theme—at just $54, including transportation and guided walks, it’s considered a good deal for a full day of sightseeing. Several guests mentioned that the optional boat trip was worth the extra cash, and some even appreciated the flexibility to skip queues.

However, the long hours—from early morning departure to late evening return—are not for everyone. One reviewer pointed out, “There’s quite a bit of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must,” and some noted that groups can be large, which might make hearing guides a challenge at times.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring comfortable shoes: Streets are cobbled, and you’ll be walking quite a bit.
• Cash or card for extras: The boat trip in Bruges costs €15, payable in cash.
• Arrive early at the meeting point outside the National Bank of Belgium to avoid last-minute stress.
• Plan for the weather: Belgian weather can be unpredictable—bring an umbrella or raincoat just in case.
• Time management: While the tour is well-organized, you might want to prioritize the sites you’re most interested in during free time.
• Photography: Don’t forget your camera—these cities are picture-perfect at every turn.
• Stay hydrated: The day involves a lot of walking and sightseeing.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This day trip is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a quick yet comprehensive introduction to Flanders’ highlights. It’s perfect for those who value expert guides who bring stories to life and appreciate being part of a comfortable group with hassle-free logistics. If you’re short on time but want to see both Ghent and Bruges, this trip offers a solid overview without sacrificing authenticity.

It’s also well-suited for budget-conscious travelers looking for good value, as the price covers transportation and guided tours. History lovers, architecture fans, and canal enthusiasts will find plenty to love. However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or need accessibility accommodations, this may not be the best fit.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility impairments?
No, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or people with mobility issues due to the walking involved and cobbled streets.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers air-conditioned transportation, a multilingual tour guide, guided walking tours in Ghent and Bruges, and radios with earphones.

Are entry tickets included?
No, entry tickets to sites are not included, so plan to purchase any you might want to visit independently.

What is the duration of the tour?
The full day lasts about 10.5 hours, with return to Brussels approximately at 7:30 PM.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins outside the National Bank of Belgium and concludes back at the same meeting point.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made up to 24 hours in advance.

Is there an option to do a boat trip in Bruges?
Yes, there is an optional canal boat ride costing around €15, which many reviewers recommend.

Do I need to bring cash for extras?
Yes, for the boat trip and potentially other small purchases, having cash is recommended.

What languages are available?
Guides operate in English, Spanish, and French, depending on your preference.

This guided day trip from Brussels to Ghent and Bruges offers a fantastic way to see two of Belgium’s most captivating cities without the fuss of planning. The combination of expert guides, comfortable transportation, and a well-balanced itinerary makes it a very attractive option for travelers wanting an immersive overview. The inclusion of optional extras like a canal cruise adds a special touch, giving you a more complete picture of Bruges’ stunning waterways.

While it’s a long day with significant walking involved, most reviews highlight the value for money and the insightful storytelling that makes the experience memorable. If you’re eager to enjoy Belgium’s medieval charm and vibrant street life in a single trip, this tour is hard to beat.

Overall, it’s best suited for history and architecture enthusiasts, first-time visitors, and those on a tight schedule who still want a taste of Belgium’s finest. Just remember to wear comfy shoes, bring cash for extras, and embrace the lively pace of this scenic journey.