Ghent and Bruges Day Trip from Brussels – A Comprehensive Guide

If you’re visiting Brussels and want to make the most of your time, a day trip to Ghent and Bruges is a must-do. Explore the medieval marvels of Ghent and the iconic winding waterways of Bruges on this full-day trip from Brussels. With a knowledgeable guide accompanying you, immerse yourself in the rich history and architectural beauty of these two UNESCO-listed cities.

Overview

Your day starts early with a 9 am departure from Brussels, so make sure you arrive at the designated meeting point on time. You’ll be transported in a comfortable air-conditioned coach with a professional guide, who will provide you with historical insights and fun facts about the cities you’re visiting. First, you’ll visit Ghent, a city that’s less touristy than Bruges but equally as beautiful. Ghent boasts a rich culture and history, with an impressive medieval heritage. The highlights of the city include the Castle of the Counts, the St. Bavo’s Cathedral, and the picturesque old port. You’ll have time to explore the winding streets and vibrant neighborhoods, taking in the historic landmarks and absorbing the lively atmosphere. After a few hours in Ghent, you’ll head to Bruges, known as the Venice of the North. With its cobblestone streets, winding canals, and picturesque architecture, Bruges has a quaint charm that visitors simply fall in love with. You’ll stroll along the cobbled streets to the Market Square, where the iconic Belfry Tower stands. Explore the stunning Gothic architecture, and visit the Basilica of the Holy Blood, a sacred site that houses a vial of Christ’s blood. You’ll have time to buy souvenirs, enjoy a local delicacy, or take a boat ride along the canals before heading back to Brussels, arriving in the early evening.

Highlights

• Discover the top city attractions such as St. Bavo’s Cathedral and the Castle of the Counts of Flanders in Ghent
• Explore the winding canals, architecture and Market Square of Bruges
• Take a scenic drive through the Belgian and Flemish countryside
• Wander the cobbled streets around Bruges’ romantic Minnewater (Lake of Love)
• Explore City Hall and the Market Square of Bruges

What’s included

• Transportation from Brussels to Ghent and Bruges by air-conditioned coach
• Professional guide providing historical and fun facts about the cities
• Comprehensive tour of Ghent and Bruges

Tips for the Tour

• Wear comfortable shoes as there will be a lot of walking involved
• Bring a camera to capture the picturesque views of the cities
• Buy local delicacies, such as Belgian chocolate or waffles, to bring home as souvenirs
• Listen to the guide to learn about the history and culture of the cities

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, a day trip from Brussels to Ghent and Bruges is an unforgettable experience that you wouldn’t want to miss. With a professional guide, comfortable transportation, and comprehensive tours of the cities, this trip is an excellent way to explore the best of Belgium’s culture, history, and architecture. Book the tour here, and get ready to immerse yourself in the medieval majesty and winding waterways of these two UNESCO-listed cities.

FAQ About Brussels

Brussels is a beautiful city with so much to explore, from the stunning architecture to the world-class museums and galleries, and the delicious cuisine. However, if you’re planning to travel to Brussels or just want to know more about the city, you might have some questions that need answering. Here are the most frequently asked questions about Brussels:

1. What is the best time to visit Brussels?

The best time to visit Brussels is between March and May or September and November. These months are ideal because the weather is mild, and the crowds are not too overwhelming. In addition, this is the time when many of the city’s festivals take place, making it a perfect time for sightseeing.

2. How do I get around Brussels?

Brussels has an excellent public transportation system, including buses, trams, and metro. A single journey on any form of transportation costs around €2.50. Alternatively, you can buy a day pass that costs €7.50 or a three-day pass that costs €18. If you prefer to walk, most of the city’s attractions are within walking distance of each other.

3. What are the must-visit attractions in Brussels?

Brussels has plenty of attractions worth visiting, but some must-see highlights include: – Grand Place: One of the most stunning squares in Europe, with stunning baroque and gothic architecture. – Atomium: A unique building shaped like an atom that also houses various exhibitions and restaurants. – Manneken Pis: A small bronze statue of a naked little boy peeing, which has become a symbol of the city. – European Parliament: The legislative heart of the European Union and a fascinating place to visit for a glimpse into the workings of the EU.

4. What are the best places to eat in Brussels?

Brussels has many excellent restaurants that offer a range of cuisine, but some of the best places to eat in Brussels are: – Chez Leon: A seafood restaurant that serves fantastic moules frites (mussels and fries). – Les Brigittines: A traditional Belgian restaurant serving local specialties like stoemp (mashed potatoes with vegetables) and waterzooi (a creamy fish or chicken stew). – La Cantina: A small Italian restaurant that serves delicious pasta dishes and pizza. – Le Pain Quotidien: A bakery that serves excellent bread, pastries, and coffee.

5. What festivals take place in Brussels?

Brussels has a busy calendar of festivals year-round, the most popular of which include: – Brussels Jazz Marathon: A three-day event that takes place in May featuring jazz performances all over the city. – Belgian Beer Weekend: A three-day beer festival that takes place in September and is a must-visit for beer lovers. – Brussels Christmas Market: Happens from November to January, this market offers an amazing array of festive attractions and stalls selling food, drinks, and gifts.

6. What is the weather like in Brussels?

Brussels has a temperate climate with mild summers and winters. The average temperature in summer ranges from 17°C to 19°C, while the temperature in winter ranges from 3°C to 6°C.

7. What should I watch out for when visiting Brussels?

Brussels is a safe city, but like any other tourist destination, pickpocketing can be a problem. It’s always advisable to keep your valuables safe and avoid carrying large sums of money with you. Additionally, some areas of Brussels, such as the area around the North Railway Station, are known for being less safe at night.

8. How do I get to Brussels?

Brussels has many transport options, including: – By air: Brussels Airport is the main airport serving the city, with frequent flights to many international destinations. – By train: Brussels has excellent train connections to other major cities in Europe, such as Paris, London and Amsterdam. – By car: Brussels is easily accessible by car, with several motorways leading into the city.

9. What are the best day trips from Brussels?

Brussels is ideally situated for some excellent day trips; some of the best places to visit include: – Bruges: Known as the Venice of the North, this charming medieval town is just an hour away from Brussels. – Antwerp: The diamond capital of the world, Antwerp is a vibrant, cosmopolitan city and a great shopping destination. – Ghent: A quirky city with stunning medieval architecture and charming canals that is just a short train ride from Brussels.

10. Is English widely spoken in Brussels?

Yes, English is widely spoken in Brussels, along with French and Dutch. Many of the city’s signs and menus are written in multiple languages, making it easy for tourists to navigate the city.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Brussels?

If you’re planning to visit Brussels, you’re in for a treat. The stunning architecture, delicious food, and charming streets make this city a favorite destination for tourists. For the best experience, you should plan your trip in advance, so you don’t miss out on any must-see attractions. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Brussels.

Step 1: Visit the Grand Place

The Grand Place is the heart of Brussels, and it’s a great place to start your tour. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an impressive square surrounded by beautiful buildings. Most of the buildings are from the 17th century and feature Baroque architecture. You can spend hours here, admiring the architecture, people-watching, or relaxing at a cafe. There are also many events and festivals held in the Grand Place throughout the year, so make sure to check the schedule before you go.

Step 2: Try Belgian Waffles

Belgian waffles are a must-try when you’re in Brussels. You can find them at street vendors, cafes or restaurants around the city. There are two types of Belgian waffles – the Brussels waffle and the Liege waffle. The Brussels waffle is light and crispy, while the Liege waffle is denser and sweeter. You can have them plain or with a variety of toppings like whipped cream, chocolate sauce, or fresh fruit.

Step 3: Check out the Atomium

The Atomium is a landmark building in Brussels that stands at 102 meters tall. Built for the 1958 World Expo, the Atomium is designed to represent an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times. You can take the elevator to the top for stunning panoramic views of the city. There’s also a restaurant and a museum inside the building. If you’re lucky, you might catch a special exhibition or event here.

Step 4: Visit the Royal Palace of Brussels

The Royal Palace of Brussels is the official residence of the King of Belgium. Although you can’t enter the palace, you can admire its stunning architecture and the surrounding gardens. You can also witness the Changing of the Guards ceremony that takes place at the palace’s entrance every day from mid-July to the end of August.

Step 5: Explore the Comic Book Route

If you’re a fan of comics, you’ll love the Comic Book Route in Brussels. This trail features colorful murals of famous comic book characters like Tintin, Lucky Luke, and Asterix. You can follow the trail on foot or by bike, and there’s even a map that you can download online. It’s a fun way to discover the city while enjoying art.

Step 6: Take a Day Trip to Bruges

Bruges is a charming city located about an hour away from Brussels by train. It’s a perfect day trip destination, and you can discover its cobbled streets, canals, and historic architecture. You can take a boat tour along the canals, visit the chocolate museum, or climb the Belfry tower for amazing views of the city.

Step 7: Experience Belgian Beer

Belgian beer is famous around the world, and it’s a must-try when you’re in Brussels. There are literally hundreds of different types of beer to choose from, and each one has its unique taste and history. You can visit a brewery or a beer bar to have a tasting or simply enjoy a pint with some local snacks.

Step 8: Visit the European Parliament

The European Parliament is located in Brussels, and it’s open to visitors. You can take a tour of the parliament’s buildings and learn more about the European Union and its political system. You can also attend a session of parliament if you’re interested in politics.

Book Your Tour Now

Brussels has a lot to offer for tourists, and you can easily spend a week here without getting bored. The most important thing is to plan your trip in advance and to make sure you don’t miss any must-see attractions. From stunning architecture to delicious food, there’s something for everyone in Brussels. By following this step-by-step guide, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.