How to Plan Your Private Tour of Bruges, Ghent, and Flanders from Brussels

If you’re planning a trip to Brussels and are interested in seeing some of the most beautiful sites in nearby Bruges, Ghent, and Flanders, then a private tour is the perfect option for you. With a professional driver and a knowledgeable tour guide, you can immerse yourself in the rich history and stunning architecture of these historic cities. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your perfect private tour.

Experience

This private tour of Bruges, Ghent, and Flanders is an all-inclusive experience that allows you to enjoy the stunning architecture and learn the history of these historic cities from a professional guide. You’ll get to explore some of the most beautiful sites, such as the Basilica of the Holy Blood of Jesus, the Belfrey tower, and the Minnewater Lake in Bruges, and the Gravensteen Castle, Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, and the Castle of the Counts in Ghent. In addition, you’ll have the option to embark on a relaxing boat trip.

Highlights

Some of the highlights that you can expect from this tour include:

• Discovering the history of Bruges, Ghent, and Flanders from your knowledgeable guide.
• Exploring some of the most beautiful sites and attractions that these cities have to offer.
• Having the flexibility of customizing your tour to your liking.
• Relaxing on an optional boat trip.

Itinerary

Here’s an overview of the general program for this private tour:

• Starting at Brussels, you’ll be driven to Bruges – the “Venice of the North” – where you’ll marvel at the canals and beautiful Gothic buildings.
• Your guide will take you to the Basilica of the Holy Blood of Jesus, the Belfry tower, and the Minnewater Lake, explaining the history of each site.
• You’ll have free time to enjoy lunch before continuing on to Ghent.
• In Ghent, you’ll visit stunning sites like Gravensteen Castle, Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, and the Castle of the Counts.
• Optional boat trip

Booking the Tour

To book your private tour of Bruges, Ghent, and Flanders, simply click on this link and follow the instructions. You’ll be directed to a secure booking page where you can select your preferred date and time.

Book Your Tour Now

With this private tour of Bruges, Ghent, and Flanders, you can immerse yourself in the rich history and stunning architecture of these historic cities. With a professional driver and a knowledgeable tour guide, you’ll get to explore some of the most beautiful sites and attractions that these cities have to offer. Book your tour today and get ready for an unforgettable experience!

Frequently Asked Questions About Ghent

Ghent is one of the largest cities in Belgium, known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re planning a trip to Ghent for the first time or are a seasoned traveler, you probably have some questions about this fascinating city. In this post, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Ghent to help you plan your trip.

1. What is the Best Time of Year to Visit Ghent?

Ghent is a beautiful city to visit any time of year, but the best time to visit really depends on what you’re looking for. Summer is the most popular time to visit Ghent, with warm temperatures and plenty of outdoor festivals and events. Spring and autumn also offer mild weather and fewer crowds. Winter can be chilly, but the city is magical during the holiday season with festive lights and Christmas markets.

2. How Do I Get to Ghent?

Ghent is easily accessible by plane, train, or car. The closest airport is Brussels Airport, which is about 45 minutes away by train or car. Ghent also has its own train station, which is well-connected to other major cities in Belgium and Europe. If you’re driving, you can reach Ghent via the E17 or E40 highways.

3. What Are the Must-See Attractions in Ghent?

There are so many incredible attractions in Ghent that it’s hard to narrow it down to just a few. Some of the must-see sights include Gravensteen Castle, St. Bavo’s Cathedral, the Ghent Altarpiece, the Belfry and Cloth Hall, and the Korenmarkt square. You should also take a stroll through the historic city center and visit the many museums, galleries, and shops.

4. Where Are the Best Places to Eat in Ghent?

Ghent is known for its incredible food scene, with a wide range of restaurants and cafes to suit every taste and budget. Some of the most popular places to eat include Publiek, Pakhuis, De Superette, and Vrijmoed. You should also try some of the local specialties, such as Waterzooi (a creamy chicken or fish stew) and Gentse neuzen (a type of candy).

5. What Are Some Fun Things to Do in Ghent?

Ghent is a vibrant and lively city with plenty of fun activities to keep you entertained. Some of the top things to do include taking a boat tour of the city’s canals, cycling along the scenic routes in and around Ghent, visiting the local markets and festivals, and enjoying the city’s nightlife. You can also take a day trip to nearby cities like Bruges, Antwerp, or Brussels.

6. Where Should I Stay in Ghent?

Ghent has a wide range of accommodation options, including hotels, hostels, apartments, and bed and breakfasts. If you’re looking for centrally located accommodation, the historic city center is a great place to stay. If you prefer a quieter area, try staying in the nearby neighborhood of Sint-Pieters or the trendy neighborhood of Dansaert.

7. Is Ghent Safe for Tourists?

Ghent is a very safe city for tourists, with a low crime rate and friendly locals. However, it’s always important to take basic safety precautions like keeping your valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings, especially at night or in busy tourist areas.

8. What Should I Pack for My Trip to Ghent?

What you pack for your trip to Ghent will depend on the time of year you’re visiting and what activities you have planned. In general, it’s a good idea to bring comfortable walking shoes, clothing that can be layered for changing weather, and a waterproof jacket or umbrella. If you’re planning to visit museums or other indoor attractions, be aware that some may have dress codes or require you to check bags.

9. What Are the Local Customs and Etiquette in Ghent?

Belgium has a fairly relaxed culture with a focus on good food, drink, and conversation. Some local customs and etiquette to be aware of in Ghent include greeting people with a handshake or cheek kiss, saying “please” (alstublieft) and “thank you” (dank u) at appropriate times, and respecting local customs like removing your shoes before entering homes.

10. What Should I Know About Belgian Currency and Tipping?

The currency in Belgium is the Euro (EUR). Tipping is not as common in Belgium as it is in some other countries, but it’s still appreciated for good service. In restaurants, it’s customary to round up the bill to the nearest Euro or leave a small tip (5-10% of the total) for exceptional service. Tipping for other services like taxis and hairdressers is also appreciated.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Ghent

Ghent is a charming city in Belgium, known for its medieval architecture, picturesque canals, and thriving cultural scene. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a repeat traveler, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in Ghent.

1. Explore the Historic Center

Ghent’s historic center is one of the best-preserved in Europe, with a stunning array of medieval monuments and landmarks. Start your visit with a stroll through the city’s cobbled streets, taking in the impressive sights such as the Castle of the Counts, St. Bavo’s Cathedral or Graslei Quay.

2. Visit the Museums

Ghent has no shortage of museums, with a wide range of collections covering everything from fine arts to history to condensed milk. The most popular museum is the Fine Arts Museum (Museum voor Schone Kunsten), which houses a vast collection of Flemish artwork from the medieval period to the present day. Another must-see museum is the STAM, which showcases Ghent’s history and culture.

3. Take a Canal Cruise

A canal cruise is a delightful way to see the city from a different angle while taking in the stunning beauty of Ghent’s canals. There are several tour operators along the Graslei Wharf that offer guided boat trips lasting between 30 minutes and 1 hour.

4. Sample Belgian Cuisine

Ghent is famous worldwide for its culinary offerings, and sampling some of the local delicacies is a must-do activity during any visit. A few of the most iconic dishes to try include Belgian waffles, mussels with fries, Belgian chocolate and fries with mayonnaise.

5. Attend a Festival or Event

Ghent has a reputation for hosting lively festivals and cultural events throughout the year. Some of the most popular events include the Ghent Festival (Gentse Feesten) which is held in July and features live music and street theater. Another festival worth attending is the Light Festival, held every three years, which transforms the city into a spellbinding illuminated wonderland.

6. Shop in the Markets and Boutiques

If you’re looking for a unique shopping experience, head to the markets and boutique shops in the city. Ghent’s Vrijdagmarkt is a popular destination for antique-hunting on Friday and Saturday. It’s also worth checking out the small independent shops in the heart of the city for designer clothing, handmade gifts, and delicious local products.

7. Take a Day Trip

While Ghent is a wonderful city to explore, it’s also an excellent base for exploring the surrounding region. Take a day trip to the nearby historic towns of Bruges or Antwerp, both of which are within easy reach by train or car.

Book Your Tour Now

There’s something for everyone in Ghent, with enough history, culture, and entertainment to keep you busy for days. From the medieval glory of the historic center to the modern face of the city’s thriving cultural scene, Ghent is a city that will captivate and invigorate you. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, book your ticket, and come experience the magic of Ghent for yourself.