How to Plan Your Brussels Day Tour to Bruges and Ghent

If you’re visiting Brussels and want to explore the surrounding areas, then take the chance to visit the beautiful medieval cities of Bruges and Ghent. These cities offer stunning architecture, picturesque canals, and a rich history that will leave you in awe. The best way to visit these cities in one day is to book the From Brussels: Bruges and Ghent in a Day Guided Tour. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your Brussels day tour to Bruges and Ghent.

Overview of the Tour

The tour is designed to take you from Brussels to Bruges and Ghent and show you the most significant and beautiful landmarks of these two cities in one day. You’ll have a professional guide with you throughout the tour who will provide you with exciting information about the cities’ history, culture, and architecture. The tour includes transport in a fleet of eco-friendly and comfortable buses and a radio system to listen to the guide.

Highlights of the Tour

The tour will take you to the most beautiful and significant landmarks of Bruges and Ghent. Here’s a list of the highlights:

In Ghent

• The Saint Bavo Cathedral: A stunning Gothic Cathedral built in the 10th century that houses remarkable art pieces, including an impressive altarpiece, ‘The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb.’
• The Gravensteen Castle: A medieval castle built in the 12th century that was used as a residence, a courthouse, a prison, and a factory. Today, it is a museum that showcases weapons, torture equipment, and life in a medieval castle.
• The Patershol: A charming neighborhood with cobblestone alleys, traditional Flemish houses, and an atmosphere of old-world charm.

In Bruges

• The Belfry of Bruges: An iconic landmark that dates back to the 13th century and offers stunning views of the city from the top of the tower.
• The Church of Saint Nicholas: A Gothic-style church built in the 13th century and famous for its decorative stained-glass windows.
• The Lake of Love: A picturesque lake surrounded by willow trees and filled with swans that is regarded as the most romantic spot in Bruges.
• The Begijnhof: A peaceful and secluded courtyard surrounded by whitewashed houses and a place that was once inhabited by a group of lay religious women.
• The Church of Our Lady: A stunning Gothic-style church built in the 13th century that houses Michelangelo’s famous sculpture of Madonna and Child.

Itinerary of the Tour

Here’s the itinerary of the tour:

Departure from Brussels

The tour departs from the center of Brussels at 9:00 am. You’ll meet your guide, board the bus, and relax during the 100-kilometer journey to Bruges, the first city of the tour.

Guided Tour of Bruges

Upon arrival in Bruges, your tour guide will take you on a walking tour of the historic center, where you’ll see the highlights mentioned above. After the walking tour, you’ll have some free time to explore the city on your own, grab some lunch, or buy souvenirs.

Transfer to Ghent

After the free time in Bruges, you’ll board the bus again and head to Ghent, which is only 45 minutes away.

Guided Tour of Ghent

Upon arrival in Ghent, your guide will take you on a walking tour of the city’s historic center, where you’ll see the significant landmarks mentioned above. You’ll have some free time to explore the city’s charming cobblestone streets, have a coffee, or take some beautiful pictures.

Return to Brussels

After the free time in Ghent, you’ll board the bus again and head back to Brussels, arriving at around 7:00 pm, depending on traffic conditions.

Booking the Tour

To book the From Brussels: Bruges and Ghent in a Day Guided Tour, visit the following link: Book the tour here. Bookings are made through GetYourGuide, a reliable and reputable online tour booking platform. Prices are reasonable, and the tour offers fantastic value for the time and money spent.

Book Your Tour Now

Visiting Bruges and Ghent in a day from Brussels is a fantastic way to make the most of your time in Belgium. With this guided tour, you won’t have to worry about transportation, navigating the cities, or missing out on the most significant landmarks. You’ll have a professional guide with you at all times, and you’ll get to see the most beautiful and significant highlights of these two cities. So don’t hesitate and book your tour today.

FAQ: Everything you need to know about Brussels

1. What is Brussels?

Brussels is the capital city of Belgium, and it is also the administrative centre of the European Union (EU). It is a bustling metropolis with a diverse population of around 1.2 million people.

2. How do I get to Brussels?

Brussels is served by the Brussels Airport, which is the biggest airport in Belgium, and the hub for Brussels Airlines. It connects Brussels to hundreds of international destinations. You can also get to Brussels by train from other European cities, such as Paris, London, and Amsterdam, via Eurostar and Thalys.

3. What are the top attractions in Brussels?

3.1. Grand Place

The Grand Place, also known as Grote Markt, is Brussels’ central square, surrounded by beautiful buildings and architecture, dating back to the 15th century. The Grand Place is a regular fixture in many of the world’s ‘most beautiful squares’ lists and is a must-see for anyone visiting Brussels.

3.2. Atomium

The Atomium is another iconic landmark in Brussels that’s hard to miss. This unique building is a representation of an iron molecule magnified 165 billion times, standing at 335 feet tall, offering incredible views of the city from its top sphere.

3.3. Manneken Pis

Don’t forget to visit one of Brussels’ most famous landmarks, the Manneken Pis – a small bronze sculpture of a naked boy urinating into a fountain. It’s not everyone’s taste, but it’s an incredibly popular sight and has many legends and stories surrounding it.

3.4. The Royal Palace of Brussels

As the official residence of the Belgian Royal Family, this neoclassical palace is one of the most beautiful in Europe. Visitors can take a guided tour of the palace for a small fee, but it is only open during the summer months.

4. What is the weather like in Brussels?

Brussels experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild winters and cool summers. The average temperature in summer (June to August) is 20°C (68°F), while in winter (December to February), it is usually around 3°C (37°F).

5. What food is Belgium known for?

Belgium has a strong culinary tradition and is famous for its beer, chocolate, and waffles. While in Brussels, make sure to try some of the local specialties such as moules-frites (mussels and fries), carbonade flamande (a beef and beer stew), and of course, the famous Belgian waffles topped with whipped cream or chocolate sauce.

6. Is Brussels a safe city to visit?

Yes, Brussels is generally considered safe to visit. However, like any big city, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions such as not carrying valuables in crowded places and being mindful of pickpockets.

7. What are the official languages of Brussels?

There are three official languages in Brussels: French, Dutch, and German. However, French is the most widely spoken language in the city.

8. What is the currency used in Brussels?

The currency used in Brussels (and the rest of Belgium) is the Euro (EUR). ATMs are widely available, and credit cards are accepted at most restaurants and stores.

9. What is the best time to visit Brussels?

The best time to visit Brussels is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is mild, and the city is alive with festivals and events. However, this is also the busiest season, so be prepared for bigger crowds and higher prices. Spring and autumn are also great times to visit when the weather is still pleasant, and the city is less crowded.

10. Do I need a visa to visit Brussels?

It depends on your nationality. If you are a citizen of an EU member state, you do not need a visa to visit Brussels. If you are a citizen of a country outside the EU, you may need a visa. Check with the Belgian embassy or consulate in your country for more information.

Book Your Tour Now

Brussels is a vibrant and diverse city with plenty to offer visitors, from its beautiful architecture and landmarks to its delicious food and drink. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a repeat traveler, there is always something new to discover in Brussels. We hope this FAQ has been helpful in planning your trip, and we wish you a fantastic time in this incredible city!

How to spend your time as a tourist in Brussels

Brussels is a fascinating city that should be on every traveler’s list. From its stunning architecture to its world-renowned chocolate and beer, Brussels has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll cover the best ways to spend your time as a tourist in Brussels.

1. Explore the Grand Place

The Grand Place is the central square in Brussels and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s surrounded by beautiful buildings, including the stunning City Hall, the Maison du Roi, and the Museum of the City of Brussels. Take a walk around the square and marvel at the architecture that dates back to the 15th century.

2. Visit the Atomium

The Atomium is a landmark building in Brussels that is a symbol of the city. It was built for the 1958 World Expo and represents an iron molecule magnified 165 billion times. The Atomium offers fantastic views of the city from its observation deck and is also home to the Atomium Museum.

3. Try Belgian Chocolate

Belgian chocolate is known all over the world for its quality and taste. There are many chocolate shops in Brussels, and we recommend trying some of the traditional Belgian chocolate and pralines. Some of the best chocolate shops in Brussels are Neuhaus, Leonidas, and Marcolini.

4. Visit the Royal Palace of Brussels

The Royal Palace of Brussels is the official palace of the King and Queen of Belgium. It’s located in the center of Brussels and is open to the public during the summer months. Take a guided tour and learn about the history and architecture of the palace.

5. Taste Belgian Beer

Belgian beer is famous for its rich taste and variety. There are over 1000 different types of beer in Belgium, and many of them can be found in Brussels. Visit a traditional Belgian bar and try some of the local beer, such as Leffe, Duvel, or Chimay.

6. Take a Walking Tour

A walking tour is an excellent way to explore the city and learn about its history and culture. There are many tour operators in Brussels that offer walking tours, including free walking tours. Some of the best walking tours in Brussels are the Brussels Beer Tour, the Brussels Chocolate Tour, and the Brussels Art Nouveau Tour.

7. Visit the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium

The Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium is a group of museums in Brussels that house over 20,000 works of art. The museums include the Museum of Ancient Art, the Museum of Modern Art, and the Magritte Museum. Take a day to explore these museums and admire the stunning art collection.

8. Shop for Souvenirs

Brussels is a great place to buy souvenirs to take home. The most popular souvenirs are Belgian chocolate, Belgian beer, lace, and handmade crafts. There are many shops in Brussels that sell souvenirs, including the Galeries Saint Hubert and the Rue des Bouchers.

Book Your Tour Now

Brussels is a fantastic city with so much to see and do. From exploring the Grand Place to trying traditional Belgian chocolate and beer, there’s something for everyone in Brussels. Take a walking tour and learn about the history and culture of the city, or visit one of the many museums and admire the art collection. Whatever you choose to do, you won’t be disappointed with your time in Brussels.