Private Bruges, Ghent Full-day trip by Mercedes from Paris

Traveling from Paris to Belgium for a day might sound ambitious, but with this private full-day tour, it’s entirely doable—and quite enjoyable. This experience offers a well-organized journey in a comfortable Mercedes minivan, whisking you away to two of Belgium’s most picturesque cities: Ghent and Bruges. You’ll get a taste of medieval architecture, charming canals, and local flavors, all packed into around 14 hours of sightseeing.

What we like most about this trip is the flexibility and personalized touch that comes with the private format. Unlike larger group tours, this one caters to your pace, and the small group size means you can ask plenty of questions. The scenic river cruise in Ghent is a highlight, providing a peaceful way to see the city from the water. Plus, the chance to sample Belgian beer in Bruges adds a fun, authentic layer to your visit.

However, there are a few points to consider. The trip’s timing can be tight, especially if some activities like the boat cruise or castle visits don’t go as planned. One reviewer mentioned the river cruise did not happen, and another noted that the castle was closed during their visit. Since this is a private tour, flexibility might be limited if certain attractions are unavailable on the day. Still, for travelers who love guided day trips and want to maximize their time in Belgium, this tour offers great value.

This tour is best suited for those wanting a hassle-free, all-in-one day trip to two iconic Belgian cities with a touch of luxury and comfort. It’s particularly good for couples, small groups, or friends looking for an authentic yet convenient experience outside Paris.

Key Points

• Private, comfortable transportation in a Mercedes minivan for up to 6 people
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off for maximum convenience
• Guided walking tour in Bruges plus a scenic audio-guided boat cruise in Ghent
• Flexibility to explore on your own during free time
• Cost reflects a premium experience with all fees included, but meals and souvenirs are extra
• Review insights reveal some activities may be canceled or unavailable, so flexibility is key

The Itinerary: What to Expect from Start to Finish

This full-day journey kicks off early at 7:30 am with a comfortable pickup from your Paris hotel. The drive to Ghent takes about 3.5 hours, with a brief stop along the way to stretch and refresh. The journey in a Mercedes E220 or similar luxury minivan promises a smooth, climate-controlled ride, essential for keeping up energy levels before a packed day ahead.

Ghent: A Scenic Waterway & City Stroll

Arriving in Ghent around 11 am, the first major activity is the audio-guided boat cruise. This 40-minute trip offers a fantastic perspective of the city’s waterways, with narration providing context about Ghent’s history and architecture. It’s a relaxing way to get your bearings and enjoy the city from a different vantage point.

One reviewer mentioned that the boat tour did not happen, which highlights the importance of confirming details with your guide beforehand. If it’s canceled, the guide will suggest an alternative, like visiting a castle—though note that in some cases, this too might be closed, as one guest experienced.

Transit to Bruges & Lunch Time

After Ghent, the tour continues to Bruges, arriving around 1:15 pm. This is the perfect window for a quick lunch—either on your own or at one of the local cafes lining the cobbled streets. Bruges is a city renowned for its medieval architecture, picturesque canals, and historical charm, making it a favorite for visitors.

Walking Tour of Bruges

From 2:15 pm to 4:15 pm, you’ll enjoy a guided walking tour of the city center. Expect to see iconic sites like the Belfry, Market Square, and historic guild houses. The guide will share stories behind these sites, making the experience engaging and informative.

While the tour doesn’t include chocolate or beer tasting explicitly, you’ll have the chance to soak in Bruges’ ambiance and perhaps explore some local shops on your own.

Beer Tasting & Free Time

After the guided walk, there’s some free time to wander, shop, or relax—depending on your interest. You might find a cozy brewery or pub to sample some Belgian beers, which is a popular activity in Bruges. Since beer tasting is included at a local brewery, you’ll get an authentic opportunity to enjoy a staple of Belgian culture.

Return to Paris

The journey back begins around 9:30 pm, with arrival in Paris expected between 10:30 pm and 11 pm. The drop-off at your hotel wraps up a full, action-packed day.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour provides luxury transportation, a guided walking tour in Bruges, an audio-guided boat cruise in Ghent, all fees and taxes, and bottled water. This means you can relax and enjoy your day without worrying about extra costs or logistics.

On the downside, meals, drinks (besides bottled water), and souvenirs are not included. If you want a sit-down lunch or to purchase souvenirs, you’ll need to budget extra. Gratuities are also not covered but are customary if you feel the guide or driver provided excellent service.

Authentic Experiences and Genuine Insights

One of the main benefits of this tour is the small-group setting, which allows for a more personalized experience. You’ll have the chance to ask questions and possibly get tailored recommendations from your guide.

However, based on reviews, some travelers experienced disruptions—like the boat cruise not happening or attractions being closed. While these aren’t uncommon in travel, it highlights the importance of flexible expectations. Still, many found the day “a nice experience,” and the luxury vehicle made the long drive manageable, especially with a friendly driver like Rusty, who spoke English well.

The price point of $664.50 per person reflects a premium experience, but the inclusion of hotel pickup, private transport, guided tours, and a beer tasting makes it a solid value for those wanting an all-in-one day trip without the hassle of planning every detail.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for couples or small groups seeking a hassle-free way to explore Belgian cities from Paris. It’s perfect if you enjoy guided walks, scenic boat rides, and tasting local brews. Travelers who value comfort and convenience but don’t want to sacrifice authentic sights will find plenty to enjoy here.

However, if you’re someone who prefers to customize every part of your day or is wary of possible activity cancellations, you might want to keep an eye on alternative options or confirm details beforehand.

Final Thoughts

This private day trip to Ghent and Bruges offers a comfortable, well-organized way to see two Belgian cities in one day. While some activities might occasionally be unavailable, the overall experience provides a solid balance of guided sightseeing, scenic views, and local flavors.

The luxury transport and small-group setting make it a relaxing and intimate experience, perfect for travelers who want to maximize their time without the hassle of independent travel. If you’re ready for a full-day adventure that combines history, scenery, and a touch of Belgian culture, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early do I need to be ready for pickup?
Pickup is scheduled for 7:30 am from your Paris hotel, so plan to be ready a few minutes earlier to ensure a smooth start.

How long is the drive from Paris to Ghent?
The drive takes about 3.5 hours in a comfortable Mercedes minivan, with a short stop along the way for refreshments.

What activities are included during the day?
You’ll enjoy an audio-guided boat cruise in Ghent and a guided walking tour of Bruges’ city center, along with a beer tasting at a local brewery.

Can I explore on my own during free time?
Yes, after the guided tour, you have free time in Bruges to explore, shop, or relax at your leisure.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks (besides bottled water) are not included, so you should budget for lunch and any additional snacks or souvenirs.

What happens if some attractions are closed?
Since this is a private tour, the guide will suggest alternatives, like visiting a castle. One review noted that the boat cruise was canceled, so flexibility is important.

How many people can join this tour?
The luxury minivans accommodate up to 6 people, making it ideal for small groups or couples seeking intimacy.

Is this a full-day tour?
Yes, it runs approximately 14 hours, starting early in the morning and returning late at night.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, allowing you to cancel if needed without penalty.

This detailed look at the Private Bruges and Ghent Day Trip from Paris hopefully gives you a clear picture of what to expect. Whether for a special occasion or simply to stretch your travel legs, it offers a fantastic way to experience Belgium’s highlights without the hassle of independent planning.