Paris: Bruges and Ghent Day Trip with Boat Ride and Tastings

Exploring Bruges and Ghent in a Day: What You Need to Know

If you’re eyeing a quick escape from Paris to experience a bit of Belgium’s charm, this day trip to Bruges and Ghent promises a mix of sightseeing, culture, and culinary treats. We haven’t done this exact tour ourselves, but based on detailed reviews and the itinerary, it offers a comprehensive glimpse into these medieval towns—perfect if you’re after a rich, full-day adventure without the hassle of planning multiple trips.

What we really like about this experience is how it combines guided walking tours with scenic boat rides—both great ways to see the cities from different angles. Plus, the inclusion of Belgian waffles and beer tastings adds a tasty local flavor that makes the trip memorable. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that some of the activities may be more limited or not exactly as described, so expectations should be managed.

This tour works well for travelers who want a structured day with highlights and cultural experiences, especially those who enjoy history, food, and a bit of leisure time. If you’re comfortable with a full, sometimes long day on the road and walking, it’s a solid choice. However, if you’re after a highly flexible or personalized experience, this might feel a bit rushed.

Key Points

• Includes guided tours of both Bruges and Ghent, offering rich context and local insights.
• Cultural highlights like chocolate, waffles, and beer tastings help you fully experience Belgian flavors.
• Long day of travel—about 13 hours—so be prepared for an early start and a late return.
• Some activities may not be included as advertised; read reviews carefully for potential discrepancies.
• Comfortable transport via air-conditioned coach makes the long drive manageable.
• Suitable for history lovers, foodies, and those wanting an efficient overview of two major Belgian towns.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Starting bright and early, you’ll be picked up from your Paris hotel, setting the tone for a well-organized day. From there, a comfortable three-hour drive brings you into Belgium, where your day begins in Bruges. The city, often called the “Venice of the North,” is famous for its medieval architecture, winding canals, and lively squares. You’ll enjoy a guided walking tour that covers the city’s highlights—think picturesque streets, historic buildings, and photo stops. It’s the kind of place where every corner seems to tell a story.

One of the highlights here is the Belgian chocolates and waffles tasting. We loved the way this added a sweet, authentic touch to the visit, giving you a chance to indulge in local specialties. The tour also includes a visit to a local restaurant for lunch—though it’s at your own expense, so plan accordingly if you wish to taste more Belgian cuisine.

However, some reviews point out that the actual tasting experiences can be hit or miss. For example, a guest noted that the chocolate wasn’t really sampled but was sold in a shop, which might be disappointing if you expected a tasting session. Still, the charming streets and local shops make for a pleasant stroll.

After about four hours exploring Bruges, the group departs for Ghent, a city known for its spectacular medieval architecture and lively atmosphere. The hour-long drive gives you some downtime, and you can soak in the scenery or chat with fellow travelers.

In Ghent, the standout activity is the canal boat ride. This cruise offers a different perspective of the city—gliding past stunning historic buildings and bridges. It’s a relaxing way to see more while taking a break from walking. The boat ride can be especially enjoyable if the weather is clear, offering great photo ops along the water.

Right after the cruise, you’ll have the chance to sample Belgian beers at a local brewery. This part of the tour is often praised—many reviewers mention the quality of the beer selection and the knowledgeable guides. It’s a great way to wind down after a busy day, soaking in some regional brews.

The day wraps up with a long drive back to Paris, arriving late in the evening. This extended schedule is ideal if you’re eager to see both cities but don’t want to spend multiple days traveling.

What the Price Gets You — Is It Worth It?

At $683 per person, this is not a budget option, but it does bundle quite a few experiences into one day—guides, transportation, tastings, and the boat cruise. From the feedback available, many feel that the value hinges on your expectations. If you’re seeking a hassle-free way to tick off both Bruges and Ghent with some cultural and culinary highlights, it can be worth the price.

However, it’s worth noting that some reviews mention the experience didn’t fully meet expectations—for instance, tastings not being included or activities being rushed. The tour’s advertised features, like chocolate and waffle tastings, are not always delivered as described. So, if those are your main reasons for booking, you might want to verify what’s included before committing.

The Journey Itself: Logistics and Comfort

The transportation seems well-organized, with air-conditioned coaches and a live guide speaking multiple languages, making it easier to follow along. The duration—about 13 hours—is a long day, so comfortable shoes are a must, and be prepared for some significant walking. The pickup and drop-off from your hotel help eliminate the stress of finding transportation, which is a big plus.

The group size is private, which means a more personalized experience, and that can be a real benefit if you prefer smaller, more intimate tours. The fact that it’s wheelchair accessible is also good to know, making it more inclusive.

The Good and the Not-So-Good

The guides often receive praise for their knowledge and friendliness, which can really elevate the experience. The inclusion of local tastings adds flavor (literally) to the trip, helping you connect with Belgian culture. The scenic boat ride is a relaxing touch that provides a different view of Ghent’s charming waterways.

On the downside, some guests have expressed frustration over missing activities or feeling that the experience was misrepresented. One reviewer shared, “We got back after 15 ½ hours without doing everything,” pointing out that the advertised tastings and boat ride were not fully realized for that person. Others noted that some activities, like waffles or beer tasting, were not included but only offered as optional purchases.

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Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits travelers who want a full yet structured day of sightseeing, eating, and drinking without the hassle of organizing transportation and guides themselves. It’s ideal for those interested in medieval architecture, Belgian chocolates and waffles, and local beers—especially if you’re comfortable with a long day on the move. It’s not the best choice if you’re expecting highly personalized experiences or detailed tastings, given some inconsistencies reported by past guests.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to cover a lot of ground in one day and enjoy a mix of history, food, and culture, this tour offers a compelling package. The guided tours, scenic boat ride, and regional tastings make it a well-rounded introduction to Bruges and Ghent, especially if you’re short on time but don’t want to miss the highlights.

However, be aware that the experience might not perfectly match the promotional details—some activities may be limited or not included as expected. It’s best to approach this trip with flexible expectations and an appetite for Belgian specialties.

All in all, for those who value convenience and a rundown, it can be a worthwhile choice. Just keep in mind that a long day with some potentially rushed moments lies ahead, so prepare accordingly for an enjoyable, if slightly hectic, adventure.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians or people with dietary restrictions?
The tour includes a traditional Belgian lunch at your own expense, so you should plan to eat accordingly. Tasting stops like chocolates, waffles, and beer are generally suitable for most but check specific preferences with the guide if needed.

Are the tastings included in the tour price?
According to reviews, some tastings such as chocolates, waffles, and beer are not always included as advertised. Be prepared for optional purchases during the stops.

How long is the boat ride in Ghent?
The boat ride lasts about two hours, giving you a relaxed, scenic view of Ghent’s waterways.

What languages are available for the tour?
The tour is offered in several languages including English, Spanish, Chinese, Italian, Russian, French, and German.

Is it possible to customize the itinerary?
Since this is a guided group tour, customization options are limited. It’s designed to give a structured experience covering key highlights.

What should I bring for the day?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and an umbrella are recommended due to walking and changing weather conditions.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the experience provider notes wheelchair accessibility, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers some flexibility if your plans change.

If you’re thinking about this tour, weigh the detailed itinerary against your own interests and expectations. It’s a good way to see two captivating Belgian cities if you’re okay with a busy, long day.

You can check availability for your dates here: