About this activity
Editor's Note
Look, I’ve spent more years than I’d like to admit tracking lead times and worrying about occupancy rates in Western Europe, and if there’s one thing the industry loves, it's packing five cities into three days. It's exhausting. That’s why I actually respect this specific itinerary; it focuses on the two heavy hitters of Belgium without trying to sell you the whole continent. Most operators just treat Bruges as a postcard backdrop, but getting both the "Venice of the North" and the grit of Ghent in one go? That’s a smart play for your ROI (Return on Interest, in my book). Most tourists just follow the herd to the Grand Place and stay there, but you’re missing the real soul of the country if you don't head north. Is it a bit of a trek? Sure. But compared to another day of overpriced waffles in Brussels, this is the pivot your trip needs.
About the Tour
Why settle for one medieval masterpiece when you can double down? This guided day trip takes you 100 kilometers out of Brussels and straight into the heart of Flanders, hitting the two cities that define the region's history.
The Charm of Bruges
The morning starts in Bruges, a city so well-preserved it’s a literal UNESCO World Heritage Site. You won't just see the sights; you’ll feel the 13th-century history. Your guide will lead you through:
- Minnewater (Lake of Love): A serene start to the morning before the crowds peak.
- The Begijnhof: A quiet complex dating back to 1245, originally built for lay religious women.
- Architectural Marvels: You'll see the Church of Our Lady (home to the world’s second tallest brick tower) and the iconic Rozenhoedkaai, which is easily the most photographed spot in the city.
- Local Life: Walk through Stoofstraat (the former Red Light District) and the Grote Markt, where the Belfort tower looms over the square.
You’ll have an hour of free time to grab lunch and—if you’re smart—stock up on actual Belgian chocolate before the bus moves on.
The Grit and Grandeur of Ghent
In the afternoon, the tour shifts to Ghent. If Bruges is a fairy tale, Ghent is the cool, rebellious sibling. Known historically as "noose-bearers," the locals here have a bit of an edge, and the architecture reflects that. Highlights include:
- Saint Bavo Cathedral: Home to the world-famous "Adoration of the Mystic Lamb."
- Gravensteen: The "Castle of the Counts," a majestic fortress that looks exactly how a castle should.
- The Embankments: Walk along the Graslei, the medieval port that remains the social heart of the city.
- Hidden Gems: From the Great Butchers’ Hall to the Old Fish Market, you'll see how Ghent blended its industrial past with its Gothic identity.
After some free time to explore the winding alleys or grab a local beer, it's a smooth ride back to Brussels. It's a long day, but in terms of value, it's hard to beat.
Highlights
- Explore 2 beautiful cities in a day with this guided trip
- Explore the majestic beauty of Saint Bavo Cathedral in Ghent
- Visit the Belfry of Bruges and the Church of Saint Nicholas in Ghent
- Discover the Lake of Love and the Begijnhof founded in 1245
Know before you go
- Due to the pollution caused by disposable headphones, visitors to Bruges are asked to use their own as per local regulations. For customers who do not have their own headphones, you may purchase them from the activity provider for just 1 EUR.
- Children under 3 years old must travel in a car seat on the bus. Please make sure to bring their appropriate seat.
What to bring
Not allowed
Includes / Excluded
Itinerary
Starting location:
Carrefour de l'Europe
Bus/coach
(2 hours)
Bruges
Guided tour (2 hours)
Bruges
Free time (1.5 hours)
Bus/coach
(1 hour)
Ghent
Guided tour (1 hour)
Ghent
Free time (1.5 hours)
Bus/coach
(1.5 hours)
Arrive back at:
Carrefour de l'Europe