How to Plan Your Brussels: Full-Day Antwerp and Ghent Guided Tour

If you’re looking for a fun and informative way to explore the top sights of Antwerp and Ghent while in Brussels, a guided tour is definitely worth considering. This particular tour allows you to see the gems of these two cities, all while sitting back and enjoying insightful commentary from your professional guide. Planning for a day out exploring these two cities can be a bit daunting, but no need to worry – we’ve got you covered. Here’s a step-by-step guide to planning your Brussels: Full-Day Antwerp and Ghent Guided Tour.

Step 1: Book Your Tour

The first and most crucial step in planning your Brussels: Full-Day Antwerp and Ghent Guided Tour is booking your tour. Head over to GetYourGuide to book your tour ahead of time. It’s essential to book your tour in advance, as the tours tend to fill up quickly. Plus, booking a tour in advance will give you peace of mind and allow you to plan accordingly.

Step 2: Prepare Your Gear

Once you’ve booked your tour, the next step is to prepare your gear. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat – especially during the summer months. You might also want to carry a water bottle and a small backpack to store your essentials. Ensure that your camera and/or smartphone is fully charged so that you don’t miss out on any photo opportunities.

Step 3: Arrive Early at the Meeting Point

The guided tour starts at 8:30AM, so make sure to arrive early at the meeting point. This will ensure that you get the best possible seat on the bus and have ample time to use the restroom or grab a coffee before setting off.

Step 4: Explore Antwerp

After a brief stop at the Atomium for a photo, the tour takes you to Antwerp. Throughout this visit, you will explore the Meat Market, Steen Castle, Town Hall Square, the Gothic-style Church of Our Lady, the Church of San Carlos de Borromeo, the Walk of the Cakes, and the beautiful Meir Street. Following this guided tour, you will receive an hour of free time to explore the city at your own leisure. Take this opportunity to stroll through the historic streets, grab some Belgian waffles or chocolate, and soak in the local culture.

Step 5: Head to Ghent

Once you finish exploring Antwerp, it’s time to head over to Ghent. Upon arriving in Ghent, you will continue with a guided tour that takes you to see the Cathedral of San Bavón, which contains the famous painting of the Van Eyck brothers, the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb. Also, visit an artisanal diamond workshop, where you will learn more about the famous diamond trade in Belgium.

Step 6: Enjoy Some Free Time in Ghent

After the guided tour, you’ll get some free time in Ghent to explore the picturesque city’s charms. Ghent is known for its canals, enticing street food, and impressive architecture. Make sure to check out the Castle of the Counts, Graslei, Korenmarkt, and St. Nicholas’ Church.

Step 7: Return to Brussels

After you finish exploring Ghent, it’s time to head back to Brussels. Make sure to take final snaps of this unique city before you leave.

Book Your Tour Now

Brussels: Full-Day Antwerp and Ghent Guided Tour is an excellent opportunity to explore two of Belgium’s most beautiful and historic cities. With all the valuable information shared by your professional guide, you’ll learn all about the unique histories of Antwerp and Ghent. Make sure to plan ahead and follow these steps to ensure a stress-free and enjoyable day out. So what are you waiting for? Book your tour today and experience the beauty of Antwerp and Ghent for yourself!

FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Brussels

Brussels, the capital city of Belgium, is a bustling metropolis that offers visitors a unique blend of historic and modern attractions. From its stunning architecture and world-renowned museums to its delicious food and lively nightlife, there’s something for everyone in Brussels. If you’re planning a trip to Brussels, you likely have many questions. To make your trip planning easier, we’ve put together this comprehensive FAQ to answer all of your most pressing questions.

1. Where is Brussels located?

Brussels is located in the central part of Belgium. It is situated about 160 kilometers (100 miles) southwest of Amsterdam and 225 kilometers (140 miles) northeast of Paris.

2. What is the official language of Brussels?

Brussels is officially bilingual, with both French and Dutch as the official languages. However, many locals also speak English, especially in tourist areas.

3. What is the best time to visit Brussels?

The best time to visit Brussels is during the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. However, if you’re interested in experiencing the city’s festive atmosphere, consider visiting during the winter holiday season when the city is filled with Christmas markets and holiday lights.

4. What are some popular tourist attractions in Brussels?

Some of the most popular tourist attractions in Brussels include:

• Grand Place: The main central square of Brussels, known for its stunning architecture and historical significance.
• Atomium: A unique building that represents an iron molecule magnified 165 billion times, with an observation deck that offers panoramic views of the city.
• Mini-Europe: A miniature park that features models of iconic European landmarks.
• Manneken Pis: A small bronze statue of a boy peeing, which has become a symbol of Brussels.
• Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium: A collection of museums that house some of the most important art collections in Europe.

5. What is the food like in Brussels?

Brussels is known for its delicious cuisine, including famous dishes like moules frites (mussels with fries), carbonnade flamande (beef stew), and waffles. The city is also known for its world-famous chocolate and beer, so be sure to sample these local delicacies during your visit.

6. What is the nightlife like in Brussels?

Brussels has a lively nightlife scene, with many bars, clubs, and music venues to choose from. The city is particularly known for its jazz scene, with many clubs hosting live music performances.

7. How do I get around Brussels?

Brussels has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, trams, and metros. You can purchase individual tickets or a Multi pass, which allows unlimited travel for a set period of time. Walking and biking are also popular ways to get around the city, especially in the central areas.

8. What is the currency used in Brussels?

The currency used in Brussels (and in the rest of Belgium) is the Euro.

9. What are some good day trips from Brussels?

If you’re looking to explore beyond the city limits, there are many great day trips from Brussels. Some popular options include:

• Bruges: A picturesque medieval city known for its canals and historic buildings.
• Ghent: A vibrant university town with a beautiful medieval center.
• Antwerp: A bustling port city that is famous for its diamonds and art scene.

10. What are some local customs and etiquette tips to keep in mind when visiting Brussels?

When visiting Brussels, it’s important to keep a few customs and etiquette tips in mind to avoid committing any cultural faux pas. These include:

• Punctuality is important, so be sure to arrive on time for any scheduled appointments or meetings.
• Greetings are typically formal, with a handshake and the appropriate greeting (Bonjour or Goedendag).
• When dining, it is customary to wait until everyone has been served before beginning to eat.
• It is considered impolite to speak loudly or make a lot of noise in public places.

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We hope this FAQ has provided you with all the information you need to plan an amazing trip to Brussels. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, food, or nightlife, this vibrant city has it all. Use the information in this post to plan your itinerary and make the most of your time in Brussels!

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Brussels: A Detailed Guide

Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is a city that has something for everyone – from its stunning architecture to its rich history, art, food and culture. If you’re planning a trip to Brussels, you might be wondering how to make the most of your time there. In this guide, we’ll take you through the best things to do and see in this beautiful city, as well as where to eat, drink and stay.

1. Explore the Grand Place

The Grand Place is an iconic square in Brussels that is often considered one of the most beautiful in the world. It is surrounded by magnificent buildings that date back to the 17th century, including the stunning Town Hall. The square is particularly impressive at night when it is lit up, making it a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.

2. Visit the Atomium

The Atomium is one of Brussels’ most famous landmarks, and for good reason. This giant structure was built for the 1958 World Expo and is now a museum. Visitors can take the elevator to the top for stunning views of the city, and there are also several exhibitions on display inside.

3. Indulge in Belgian Chocolate

Belgium is famous for its chocolate, and no trip to Brussels would be complete without sampling some of the finest. There are countless chocolate shops around the city, but a few standout places include Neuhaus, Leonidas, and Godiva. Be sure to try the pralines, which are a Belgian specialty.

4. Visit the Royal Palace

The Royal Palace of Brussels is the official residence of the king and queen of Belgium. Visitors can tour the palace and admire its opulent rooms and décor. The palace is only open to visitors during the summer months, so be sure to check the schedule before you visit.

5. Take a Walking Tour

One of the best ways to see Brussels is on foot. There are several guided tours available, including tours of the historic center, art nouveau architecture, and chocolate shops. Walking tours are a great way to learn about the city’s history and culture from a local guide.

6. Marvel at the Manneken Pis

The Manneken Pis is a tiny sculpture of a little boy peeing, which has become an iconic symbol of Brussels. The statue is over 400 years old and has been stolen and recovered several times. It is now on display in a small fountain in the city center.

7. Explore the Museums

Brussels is home to many world-class museums, including the Royal Museums of Fine Arts, the Musée Magritte Museum, and the Belgian Comic Strip Center. Each museum offers a unique perspective on art, culture, and history, and is well worth a visit.

8. Try the Local Cuisine

Belgian cuisine is known for its hearty and delicious dishes, including moules frites (mussels and fries), stoemp (a potato dish), and carbonade flamande (a beef stew). There are countless restaurants and cafes around the city that serve traditional Belgian dishes, but a few favorites include Chez Leon, Aux Armes de Bruxelles, and Le Pain Quotidien.

9. Sip Belgian Beer

Belgium is world-renowned for its beer, and Brussels is no exception. There are over 1,000 different types of beer produced in the country, each with its own unique flavor and character. Some popular beer spots in Brussels include Delirium Cafe, Cafe Belga, and A La Mort Subite.

10. Enjoy the Parks

Despite being a city, Brussels has several green spaces that are perfect for relaxing and enjoying the outdoors. The Bois de la Cambre is a large park in the south of the city that offers picturesque views, while the Parc du Cinquantenaire has several museums and monuments within its grounds.

Book Your Tour Now

Brussels is a city that is rich in culture, history, and beauty. Whether you’re interested in art, food, or architecture, there is something for everyone to enjoy. By following this guide, you’ll be able to make the most of your time in Brussels and create lasting memories.