Private Tour Best Of Ghent and Bruges From Brussels for Big Group

A comprehensive look at the Private Tour Best Of Ghent and Bruges From Brussels for Big Groups

Travelers looking to explore Belgium’s most picturesque cities often find themselves torn between the allure of Bruges, the “Venice of the North,” and Ghent, with its lively canals and medieval charm. This private tour from Brussels offers a well-structured day trip that promises to showcase the best of both cities in about 7 to 9 hours. What stands out here is the expert guidance, flexibility, and the chance to see iconic sights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

One feature we really appreciate is the private nature of the tour — it’s just your group, allowing for a more personalized experience and the flexibility to focus on what interests you most. The comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned mini-coach, plus the inclusion of bottled water and WiFi, makes the day smooth and enjoyable. A potential consideration might be the cost, as at around $537.59 per person, it’s on the premium side, but the value is reflected in the ease of logistics and expert guides.

This tour suits history buffs, architecture lovers, and those eager to see iconic Belgian scenery without the hassle of navigating public transport or crowded group tours. It’s ideal for families, friends, or larger groups who want a curated experience with a knowledgeable guide.

Key Points

• Private tour for personalized attention with just your group
• Full-day exploration covering Bruges and Ghent’s top sights
• Transport included in a comfortable, air-conditioned mini-coach
• Flexible stops with optional boat trips and free time for lunch
• Expert guides providing insights and making sightseeing easier
• Cost reflects a high-quality, hassle-free experience

The Experience: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Starting Point: Hotel Pickup in Brussels

The adventure begins with hotel pickup in Brussels, a real bonus for travelers who dislike navigating public transport or crowded buses. This door-to-door service is especially valuable if you’re staying in central Brussels, saving time and energy. The driver and certified guide meet you at your specified location, making for a seamless start. Expect to be driven comfortably in an air-conditioned mini-coach with WiFi and bottled water on board, which adds a touch of convenience and comfort to your long day of sightseeing.

First Stop: Bruges

Your first major destination is Bruges, roughly a 1 hour and 40-minute drive from Brussels. Once there, the guide introduces you to some of the city’s most photogenic spots.

Mariastraat is the first stop, offering a perfect photo opportunity from a quaint bridge that captures Bruges’ fairy-tale charm. Then, a visit to Minnewater Lake gives you a chance to admire its tranquil waters, with the name meaning “Lake of Love” — a peaceful spot that seems to encapsulate the city’s romantic vibe. The 30-minute stop here offers lots of photo opportunities and the chance to breathe in the fresh air.

Exploring Historical Landmarks

Next, you’ll visit the Basilica of the Holy Blood in Burg Square, which features a lower Romanesque chapel that’s nearly unchanged over centuries. Inside, you can see the revered relic of the Holy Blood, adding a spiritual dimension to the tour. This stop is typically around 30 minutes and is free to explore.

The Princely Beguinage Ten Wijngaarde is a highlight, especially for those interested in medieval architecture and peaceful surroundings. The beguinage, a UNESCO site, exudes tranquility and offers insights into an unusual religious community of women who lived independently in the Middle Ages — a unique site that many reviewers find inspiring.

Architectural Gems and Historic Districts

Further exploring Bruges, you’ll walk along Graslei and Korenlei, the old harbor area, where sailboats and merchant guild houses tell stories of Bruges’ prosperous past. This spot is perfect for soaking up the medieval ambiance and catching some stunning photos.

One of the most iconic sights is Gravensteen Castle, with its fortress walls and turrets. The castle’s history and architecture make it a must-see, and the guide often shares stories about its evolution and significance. Expect around 30 minutes here to wander and take in the views.

Religious and Artistic Treasures

The St Bavo’s Abbey — a Gothic marvel — houses significant art collections, including works by Rubens. The guide’s insights here add depth, making this stop not just visually impressive but also intellectually enriching.

Burg Square is the political and historical hub of Bruges, where different architectural styles from across centuries coexist. This lively area is perfect for a quick walk and some last-minute photos before heading back.

Transition to Ghent

After exploring Bruges, the tour continues with a scenic drive of about 1 hour and 40 minutes to Ghent, another Belgian gem. Here, you’ll see the cathedral with its famous Altarpiece, and explore the canal-lined streets and historic guild houses.

Ghent’s Castle of the Counts is an unmissable stop for history enthusiasts, showcasing centuries of Flemish history. The St Bavo’s Cathedral in Ghent is also a highlight, boasting a varied architectural style from Romanesque to Gothic, plus a collection of artworks from masters like Rubens. The guide provides context, making the art and architecture come alive.

Optional Boat Trips and Free Time

Both cities offer optional boat trips along their scenic canals—an excellent way to see the cities from a different perspective. While these are optional, many travelers find them worth the extra time and cost, typically providing a more intimate view of Bruges and Ghent’s waterways.

Wrapping Up and Return to Brussels

The day concludes with the drive back to Brussels, which takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes. The guide often provides local tips or answer questions during the transfer, ending your day with a relaxed return to your hotel or a location of your choice.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Authentic Local Insights: Guided by professional, knowledgeable guides, you’ll learn about the cities’ histories, architecture, and legends that you wouldn’t get from a book or solo exploration. One reviewer mentioned their guide’s “amazing” insights and called the experience “awesome,” emphasizing the personal touch.

Comfort and Convenience: From hotel pickup to WiFi on board, every detail is designed to make your day seamless. The private aspect means you can tailor the experience slightly or pause for a quick question or photo whenever you wish.

Flexible Stops and Optional Extras: The inclusion of free time, boat trips, and optional visits gives you control over your experience, allowing for a more personalized visit. For example, if you love art, you might spend extra time at the Memling Museum in Bruges.

Scenic and Historical Balance: The stops are carefully chosen to showcase both natural beauty (Minnewater Lake, canals) and architectural grandeur (castle, basilicas). The mix ensures a well-rounded experience.

Value for Money: While the price may seem high at first glance, the private guide, transport, and all included stops justify it—especially when compared to the cost and hassle of organizing independent day trips for a large group.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect for large groups or families wanting a hassle-free, private experience without sacrificing depth. It’s also ideal for history and architecture enthusiasts eager to see some of Belgium’s most photogenic and culturally significant sites.

If you prefer customizable itineraries with the comfort of private transport and a knowledgeable guide, this trip will suit you well. It’s also a good choice for travelers who want to maximize their sightseeing in a single day without rushing or worrying about logistics.

Keep in mind, the price point makes it more suitable for those willing to spend a little extra for convenience and tailored service, especially if traveling with friends or family.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour begins with pickup from your specified location in Brussels, making it very convenient.

How long is the drive between Brussels and Bruges?
It’s approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes, allowing for comfortable travel to start your sightseeing in Bruges.

Are boat trips included?
Boat trips are optional, not included in the base price, but they are available as add-ons in both Bruges and Ghent.

What is the duration of the entire tour?
The total experience lasts around 7 to 9 hours, depending on stops and pace.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult. It’s a full-day trip, so be prepared for a long day with younger kids.

What is the guide’s role during the tour?
A professional, certified guide leads each stop, sharing insights, historical context, and answering questions, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

Can I customize the itinerary?
As a private tour, there’s some flexibility. You can opt for boat trips, spend more time at certain sites, or ask for additional insights.

What is included in the price?
Hotel pickup and drop-off, private guide, transport in an air-conditioned mini-coach, bottled water, and WiFi are included. Tips are not.

Final Thoughts

For travelers who want a well-organized, private day trip that combines historical sightseeing with scenic beauty, this tour from Brussels offers excellent value and comfort. The chance to explore Bruges and Ghent with a knowledgeable guide makes it ideal for those who prefer curated experiences and dislike navigating unfamiliar transport networks.

While the cost may be higher than independent day trips, the personalized attention, expert insights, and ease of logistics make it worthwhile, especially for groups or families seeking a relaxed yet comprehensive Flemish adventure.

If you’re keen on photographing stunning medieval architecture, learning about the cities’ fascinating past, and enjoying Belgian hospitality, this private tour fits the bill perfectly. Just be prepared for a full day of sightseeing—you’ll come away with a deep appreciation for these two remarkable cities.

Whether you’re a history buff, architecture lover, or just someone eager to see Belgium’s finest sights in style, this tour offers a memorable and hassle-free way to experience Bruges and Ghent.