Antwerp and Ghent Full Day Tour from Amsterdam

If you’re craving an easy way to explore some of Belgium’s most charming cities without the hassle of planning trains or flights, the Antwerp and Ghent Full Day Tour from Amsterdam might just be worth considering. While it’s not the cheapest option out there, it offers a well-organized way to see two cities famed for their architecture, history, and vibrant streets—all in one day.

What really caught our eye about this tour are two standout features: the knowledgeable guides who offer engaging commentary at each stop, and the ample free time to explore on your own. These elements help turn a long day on the bus into a genuinely enriching experience. On the flip side, keep in mind that the schedule involves several hours on the coach and a fair bit of walking—so it’s not ideal if you have mobility concerns or prefer a more relaxed pace.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want to maximize their time and get a taste of Belgium’s highlights without the headache of organizing logistics. It’s also suited to those who enjoy guided commentary, beautiful cityscapes, and a nicely balanced mix of guided tours and free exploration. If your travel style is more about taking your time or visiting museums, this might feel a little rushed. But if you’re after a concentrated dose of Belgian culture in a day, this could work well.

Key Points

• Convenient round-trip from Amsterdam with hotel pickup and drop-off options, saving you travel planning.
• Includes a bilingual guide, making the experience informative and engaging.
• Flexible free time in each city to explore at your own pace.
• Visits key sights like Ghent’s Castle of the Counts and Antwerp’s Grote Markt.
• Long day on the road, with several hours on the coach and walking involved.
• Not suitable for travelers with mobility issues due to the walking and bus duration.

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

The day kicks off early at the meeting point in Amsterdam, with a comfortable coach ride south through the Dutch and Belgian countryside. Expect about three hours of travel before arriving in Ghent, a city that oozes medieval charm. The highlight here is the Castle of the Counts (Gravensteen)—a medieval fortress that offers a tangible link to the past. As you wander through its towers and walls, you’re transported back in time, imagining what life was like centuries ago.

Our reviewers loved the guided portion here, with one describing Tony as “an amazing guide and photographer,” who made sure each stop was well explained and visually captivating. That kind of attention helps you appreciate the sights, especially if architecture and history are your jam.

After about three hours in Ghent, the coach heads to Antwerp, a city famous for its diamonds, art, and Renaissance architecture. The main square, Grote Markt, is a lively hub surrounded by ornate buildings and bustling cafes. You’ll spend roughly four hours here, which is enough to soak in the atmosphere, enjoy some sightseeing, and perhaps grab a quick bite.

The guided walk in Antwerp is another highlight. The guides are praised for their local knowledge, making the tour both informative and fun. The city’s mix of medieval and modern elements makes for fascinating photography and exploration. One reviewer commented, “Both cities are beautiful, with stunning architecture and rich history,” emphasizing how much there is to see and admire.

Finally, after a day packed with sightseeing, the coach returns to Amsterdam, allowing about four hours for the journey home. This gives you some time to reflect on your day and perhaps review your photos or plan your next Belgian adventure.

The Practical Aspects

The price of around $239.57 per person might seem steep at first glance, but when you factor in transportation, guides, and the value of seeing two cities in one day, it’s quite reasonable. You’re paying for convenience and expert commentary—plus the chance to avoid the complications of train or flight bookings.

The tour lasts about 14 hours, starting early at 7:00 am, so be prepared for a long day. It’s designed for travelers who don’t mind spending several hours on a bus and walking on cobblestone streets. The tour is limited to 30 people, which helps keep the atmosphere intimate and manageable.

It’s worth noting that children under 11 must bring their own car seat, as it’s not provided. The tour isn’t explicitly marketed as family-friendly, but families with older kids who enjoy walking and sightseeing could find it suitable.

Authentic Experiences from Reviewers

One reviewer summed it up nicely, saying, “No title,” but their comments tell us they appreciated the beautiful architecture and the ample free time. Their mention of “plenty of beautiful architecture to see” and the positive tone about the guided tour suggests this experience hits its mark for most travelers.

Another shared that “both cities are beautiful, with stunning architecture and rich history,” which echoes what many others feel—these cities are captivating and worth a visit, even if just for a day.

Final Thoughts

The Antwerp and Ghent Full Day Tour from Amsterdam offers a practical, well-organized way to tick off two Belgian cities in one go. It’s especially suited to travelers who prefer guided tours, enjoy historic architecture, and want to save time on logistics. The mix of guided overview and free time means you get both expert insights and personal exploration.

While it’s a fairly full and long day, the quality of guides and the beauty of the sights make it worthwhile. It’s not the best choice if you’re looking for a leisurely, in-depth exploration or have mobility concerns, but if you’re after a taste of Belgium without the fuss, this tour can deliver.

If you’re okay with a busy schedule, enjoy guided commentary, and want to see two cities in one day, this trip could be just the ticket. Just remember to pack comfortable shoes, be ready for a full day, and bring your curiosity along.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
No, this tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. It begins and ends at the designated meeting point in Amsterdam.

How long is the coach ride?
The journey from Amsterdam to Ghent and Antwerp takes around three hours each way, with four hours allocated for the return trip. Expect about 14 hours total.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility problems?
Since the itinerary involves several hours on the bus and walking around in the cities, it’s not recommended for people with mobility issues.

What’s included in the price?
Round-trip transportation by bus from Amsterdam and a bilingual professional guide are included. Lunch and hotel transfers are not.

Can children participate?
Children under 11 need their own car seat, as it’s not provided. The tour doesn’t specifically target families, but older kids who enjoy walking and sightseeing might find it fine.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance won’t be refunded.

Overall, if you’re looking for a straightforward, guided way to see two beautiful Belgian cities, this tour offers a lot of value—especially for those who appreciate expert guides and manageable logistics. It’s a solid choice for a day trip, and with a bit of planning, it can be a memorable highlight of your European adventure.