Belgium’s fairytale cities of Bruges and Ghent are often overshadowed by the capital Brussels. But those who venture beyond the bustling cityscape will discover a charming world of medieval architecture, quaint canals, and a rich cultural heritage. This full-day tour from Brussels promises to immerse visitors in the captivating sights and sounds of these UNESCO-listed gems. From exploring Ghent’s iconic St. Bavo’s Cathedral to wandering the romantic streets of Bruges, the experience offers a glimpse into Belgium’s enchanting past. Travelers seeking to uncover the country’s lesser-known treasures won’t want to miss this opportunity.
Key Points
- A full-day trip from Brussels that explores the UNESCO-listed cities of Ghent and Bruges, showcasing their top attractions and fairytale charm.
- In Ghent, the tour visits St. Bavo’s Cathedral, the Castle of the Counts of Flanders, and the charming Graslei harbor, providing insights from a knowledgeable guide.
- The scenic drive to Bruges offers picturesque views of the Belgian and Flemish countryside, including charming villages and iconic windmills.
- In Bruges, the tour highlights the Minnewater, City Hall, Market Square, and offers an optional boat tour along the city’s serene canals.
- The tour provides an efficient and comprehensive way to experience the highlights of these two legendary Belgian cities from the capital, Brussels.
Overview of the Tour
This full-day trip from Brussels takes visitors to the UNESCO-listed cities of Ghent and Bruges, allowing them to discover top attractions in each destination.
The tour includes a professional multilingual guide and an air-conditioned vehicle.
Travelers will explore St. Bavo’s Cathedral, the Castle of the Counts, and the ancient port of Graslei in Ghent.
In Bruges, the itinerary features the romantic Minnewater, City Hall, Market Square, and the Basilica of the Holy Blood. Visitors can also opt to take a boat tour of Bruges’ winding waterways.
With comfortable walking shoes and radios/earphones provided, this tour offers an efficient way to experience the fairytale cities of Belgium from the capital.
Exploring Ghent’s Top Attractions
Upon arrival in Ghent, the tour explores the city’s top attractions, starting with the magnificent St. Bavo’s Cathedral, renowned for its impressive Gothic architecture and medieval craftsmanship.
Next, the group ventures to the Castle of the Counts of Flanders, a stunning 12th-century fortress that offers a glimpse into the region’s rich history.
Visitors then wander through the charming streets and ancient port of Graslei, soaking in the picturesque waterfront views.
The tour also includes a stop at the impressive St. Nicholas’ Church, known for its Scheldt Gothic style.
Throughout the Ghent exploration, the knowledgeable guide provides insightful commentary, bringing the city’s vibrant past to life for the captivated travelers.
Scenic Drive to Bruges
After exploring the highlights of Ghent, the tour group boards the comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle and embarks on a scenic drive through the picturesque Belgian and Flemish countryside en route to Bruges.
The lush, rolling hills and verdant fields create a tranquil, pastoral atmosphere, allowing travelers to unwind and absorb the beauty of the Flemish landscape.
Along the way, they:
- Admire the charming villages with their quaint, historic architecture.
- Spot iconic Belgian windmills dotting the horizon.
- Catch glimpses of the serene canals and waterways that crisscross the region.
This serene journey sets the stage for the enchanting city of Bruges, a UNESCO World Heritage site awaiting discovery.
Discovering Bruges’ Romantic Landmarks
The scenic drive leads the group directly to the enchanting city of Bruges, a UNESCO World Heritage site where they now explore its romantic landmarks.
They first wander along the serene Minnewater, also known as the ‘Lake of Love‘, admiring the tranquil waters and surrounding medieval architecture.
Next, they discover the impressive City Hall, a stunning example of Gothic Flemish design, before meandering through the lively Market Square, home to the medieval Basilica of the Holy Blood.
The group then has the option to take a boat tour, drifting along Bruges’ picturesque canals and admiring the city’s romantic setting from the water.
Throughout the exploration, the group is captivated by Bruges’ fairytale atmosphere.
Optional Boat Tour in Bruges
For those interested in seeing Bruges’ picturesque waterways, the optional boat tour provides a serene and enchanting perspective of the city’s medieval architecture and charming canals.
Gliding along the calm waterways offers a unique vantage point to witness:
- The graceful bridges that arch over the canals, framing the quaint buildings and cobblestone streets.
- The tranquil reflections of the city’s landmarks dancing on the surface of the water.
- The peaceful ambiance that allows visitors to truly soak in the timeless beauty of this Flemish gem.
This leisurely boat ride is the perfect complement to exploring Bruges on foot, providing a relaxing and memorable addition to the day’s adventures.
Meeting and Pickup Details
The tour starts at the meeting point of Bd de Berlaimont 18, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium, where participants should look for the Keolis coach and staff outside the National Bank of Belgium.
Once gathered, the group will depart Brussels and journey to the UNESCO-listed cities of Ghent and Bruges.
At the end of the tour, guests will be dropped back off at the original meeting point.
With radios and earphones provided, guests can easily hear the multilingual guide’s commentary throughout the day.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers are allowed.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as there will be plenty of exploring on foot.
Inclusions and Exclusions
This tour package includes a professional multilingual guide, an air-conditioned vehicle, and radios with earphones to ensure clear communication throughout the day. Plus, guests can opt to take a boat tour along Bruges’ winding waterways for an extra cost.
Explore the UNESCO-listed cities of Ghent and Bruges, discovering their top attractions.
Enjoy the picturesque Belgian and Flemish countryside during the scenic drive.
Wander the romantic cobbled streets around Bruges’ Minnewater (Lake of Love) and marvel at the medieval Basilica of the Holy Blood.
Tour Policies and Information
Guests must arrive at the meeting point located on Bd de Berlaimont 18 in Brussels, where they’ll find the Keolis coach and tour staff waiting outside the National Bank of Belgium.
The tour ends back at the same meeting point.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is stroller-friendly, and it’s near public transportation. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
Guides are available in English, Spanish, and French.
No late arrivals are accommodated as the tour operates on a tight schedule.
The group size is capped at 200 travelers.
Confirmation is provided at the time of booking.
This full-day trip to the UNESCO-listed cities of Ghent and Bruges promises to be an unforgettable journey through Belgium’s fairytale landscapes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Time Is Allocated for Free Exploration in Each City?
The overview doesn’t specify the exact amount of time allocated for free exploration in each city. However, it seems the tour provides ample time to wander and discover the key sights in both Ghent and Bruges on your own.
Are There Any Restrictions on the Boat Tour in Bruges?
The boat tour in Bruges is optional and available at an extra cost. There are no specific restrictions mentioned, but group size may be limited. It allows travelers to explore the city’s winding waterways and scenic canals.
Can I Take My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Travelers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, the operator doesn’t provide any facilities for storing or consuming them. It’s recommended to enjoy the local cafes and restaurants during the stops in Ghent and Bruges.
Is the Tour Guide Available to Assist With Local Restaurant Recommendations?
The tour guide is available to provide local restaurant recommendations to help travelers find the best dining options in Ghent and Bruges. They can suggest top-rated eateries, traditional cuisines, and accommodate dietary needs.
Is It Possible to Extend the Tour Duration or Add Extra Stops?
The tour provider allows some flexibility to extend the duration or add extra stops, but this may come at an additional cost. Travelers should check with the provider for details on customizing the itinerary to meet their needs.
Recap
Bruges and Ghent offer a glimpse into Belgium’s captivating past.
The guided tour provides an immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore the Gothic architecture and medieval charm of these UNESCO-listed cities.
Whether admiring the grand cathedrals, wandering the picturesque canals, or enjoying a boat ride, this day trip from Brussels promises to transport travelers to a fairytale world.
