Bruges and Ghent Trips from Amsterdam via Brussels

If you’re considering a day trip to Bruges and Ghent from Brussels, this tour offers a well-rounded look at two of Belgium’s most charming cities. Based on reviews and detailed itineraries, it promises a full, immersive experience that combines history, architecture, and local flavor. Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of picturesque streets, or just eager to see some of Belgium’s most iconic sights, this trip might be just what you’re after.

What we really like about this experience is how organized and comprehensive it is. You get to visit multiple landmarks with the comfort of a private group, plus the bonus of train travel included in the price. Also, the guide’s knowledge seems to be a highlight according to one reviewer who praised Aleks as “really knowledgeable and willing to explain everything.” On the flip side, the price may seem steep for some, especially since meals and souvenirs aren’t included. Still, for those wanting a hassle-free, curated journey through these historic cities, it’s a solid pick.

This tour probably suits travelers who want to maximize their time, appreciate cultural and architectural highlights, and prefer a guided experience over wandering alone. If you’re traveling with a small group or family and enjoy a mix of sightseeing, history, and local flavors, this could be just right. Keep in mind, though, that it’s a busy day—so if you’re after a slow-paced, leisurely exploration, you might want to consider more flexible options.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Transportation: Train tickets from Brussels or Antwerp to Bruges and Ghent for up to 4 people are included, which simplifies logistics.
• Extensive Itinerary: With over 20 stops, you’ll see major landmarks, historic streets, and some hidden gems.
• Expert Guide: The guide’s deep knowledge and attention to the group’s needs seems to stand out, making the sightseeing richer.
• Skip the Lines: Many attractions are included or free, but some notable sites like Saint Johns Hospital or the Ghent Altarpiece are not included in the ticket price.
• Value for Money: For $660.50 per group, you’ll enjoy a full day of sightseeing, but remember that meals, snacks, and souvenirs are extra.
• Flexible Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour makes it a lower-risk option.

What to Expect from This Tour: The Itinerary Breakdown

This tour packs a full day of sightseeing into roughly eight hours, with a mixture of walking, sightseeing, and brief stops. It’s designed to hit the major highlights of both Bruges and Ghent while providing insights from your guide along the way.

Starting in Bruges: Historic Charm and Local Flavors

The day kicks off in Bruges, often called the “Venice of the North” thanks to its romantic canals and medieval streets. The first stop at the Princely Beguinage Ten Wijngaarde offers a glimpse into the religious life of 13th-century women who chose a vow of simplicity. It’s a peaceful spot that sets a tone of historical reverence.

Next, the tour takes you to Sint-Janshuismolen, where you’ll admire Flemish architecture and cobblestone streets—perfect for snapping photos. The Saint Johns Hospital, dating back to the 12th century, is another historic site, though the entrance ticket isn’t included, so you might want to budget for that if you’re interested.

A highlight is the De Halve Maan Brewery, a family-managed brewery dating back to 1856, where you’ll get a 20-minute visit included in the price. It’s an excellent chance to learn about Belgium’s rich beer culture, and the fact that beer has been brewed on this site for over 500 years adds a layer of authenticity. Many travelers have praised the guide for making the beer tasting or visit especially engaging.

Walking through the Main Square (Market Square), you’ll see the iconic Belfry of Bruges, monuments, and colorful buildings that define the city’s charm. The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse building, with its dark legends, adds a quirky twist to the day.

The Heart of Bruges: Architecture and Iconic Sites

The Burg Square is another major stop, with its grand buildings and historical significance. While it’s not a paid attraction, it’s a lively area perfect for soaking in the city’s ambiance. The Quai du Rosaire, or Rozenhoedkaai, is probably the most photographed spot, with picturesque views of the canals—ideal for those postcard-perfect shots.

The Church of Our Lady hosts Michelangelo’s “Madonna With Child” sculpture and tombs of the last Duke of Burgundy, Charles the Bold. This site isn’t included in the ticket, but it’s a highlight for art lovers and history buffs alike.

Transition to Ghent: Medieval Marvels and Modern Vibe

After a good amount of time exploring Bruges, the group boards the train for Ghent, which is known for its youthful energy and medieval landscape. The St. Jacob’s Church from 1093 offers a glimpse into the city’s ancient roots.

The Ghent Altarpiece in Saint Bavo Cathedral is a major highlight, famous for its theft history and artistic significance. Again, tickets aren’t included, but it’s worth seeing if you’re interested in European art.

Het Belfort van Ghent, a 91-meter tall belfry, provides panoramic views of the city, and many reviewers find climbing to the top worthwhile for the scenery. The Ghent City Hall and Masons’ Guild Hall showcase a mix of Renaissance and Gothic architecture, adding to the city’s medieval charm.

A visit to the Cloth Hall and the Graslei and Korenlei streets offers a visual feast—think of historic warehouses turned into vibrant streets flanking the river. The Castle of the Counts (Gravensteen) is a compelling stop, giving a sense of medieval fortress life, although not included in the ticket price.

Wrapping Up: A Well-Rounded Day

The tour wraps up with a visit to some modern landmarks like the Ghent Market Hall, seating area, and the Saint Michael’s Church, home to Van Dyck’s “Golgotha.” The entire experience aims to blend history with contemporary life, giving a well-rounded picture of these two cities.

What’s the Value Here?

For $660.50 per group, you’re paying for a thoughtfully curated day of sightseeing, guided by someone with in-depth knowledge—many travelers have called their guide “amazing” and “really knowledgeable.” The inclusion of train tickets simplifies transportation, which is a big plus, especially for those unfamiliar with Belgian rail.

While meals and souvenirs aren’t included, the tour’s focus on top landmarks and the overall organization make it a good deal for travelers who prefer a structured experience over figuring everything out on their own. The free cancellation policy adds peace of mind, ensuring you can adapt your plans if needed.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for small groups or families who want to see the highlights of Bruges and Ghent with a trusted guide. It’s best suited for those who enjoy walking and exploring multiple sites in a day, and who value learning about history and architecture from an informed guide. If you’re short on time but want to soak in as much as possible, this tour offers a smart way to do that.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a full-day, curated excursion through two of Belgium’s most photogenic and historically significant cities, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s especially appealing if you want to avoid the hassle of planning train schedules and site tickets, and if guided insight and storytelling enhance your experience.

Of course, it’s a busy day—so if you prefer relaxed, unstructured exploration and more time at each site, you might want to consider other options. But for travelers who want a dependable, rundown with expert commentary, this could be just what you need.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While the tour doesn’t specifically mention family-friendliness, the itinerary involves walking and sightseeing in historic areas, so it can suit families with older children comfortable with a busy day. Contact the provider if you have specific needs.

What is included in the price?
You get train tickets from Brussels or Antwerp to Bruges and Ghent for up to four people, entrance to the De Halve Maan Brewery, and coffee or tea.

Are meals included?
No, meals, snacks, and souvenirs are not included, so you might want to plan for lunch on your own.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, giving you enough time to explore both cities without feeling rushed.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, making it flexible if plans change.

Is the guide knowledgeable?
Based on reviews, guides like Aleks are highly praised for their knowledge and effort to enrich the experience.

What about transportation?
All train travel between Brussels, Bruges, and Ghent is arranged and included, so you won’t need to worry about logistics.

If you’re after a well-organized, insightful day of Belgian city-hopping, this trip offers a lot of value. Just be prepared for a full day on your feet and a fair amount of sightseeing—sometimes that’s exactly what makes the trip memorable.