Day trip to Ghent and Atomium from Brussels

Exploring Belgium’s charming towns and iconic landmarks is a highlight for many travelers, and this day trip from Brussels to Ghent plus a quick stop at the Atomium offers a solid way to see some of the country’s best. While we haven’t taken this exact tour ourselves, reviews and details paint a picture of a generally enjoyable experience with plenty to offer if you’re after a mix of culture, history, and beautiful scenery.

Two things we really like about this tour are the expert guidance—the guides are often praised for their knowledge and storytelling—and the ample free time in Ghent, giving you space to explore at your own pace and soak in the city’s medieval charm. On the flip side, one thing to consider is that the tour’s timing can be tight at certain points, especially if planning to visit specific sites like Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, which is a highlight for many.

This tour is best suited for those who want a rundown of Ghent’s main sights without the hassle of organizing transportation or navigating on their own. It’s ideal if you’re staying in Brussels and want a full, yet manageable, day of sightseeing. And if you’re a history, architecture, or food lover, the mix of guided visits and free time makes it appealing. Just be prepared for some walking, and note that the tour doesn’t include meals, so you might want to bring snacks or plan your own lunch.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle makes the day relaxed.
• Expert guides provide insightful stories and recommendations that enrich your visit.
• Free time in Ghent allows for exploring shops, cafes, or revisiting favorite spots.
• The itinerary covers iconic sites like Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, Ghent Town Hall, Graslei, and Korenmarkt.
• The tour is reasonably priced at around $50, offering good value for a full day out.
• Some reviews mention logistical hiccups, especially at the end of the day, so flexibility is helpful.

A Detailed Look at the Tour

Starting Point and Transport

The tour kicks off bright and early at 8:30 am from the Carrefour de l’Europe in Brussels. From there, you’ll hop into a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. This is a real plus—after all, nobody wants to sit in a cramped bus on a long day, especially when the weather’s warm. The round-trip transfer is included, so no need to worry about navigating public transport. Most travelers find this setup convenient, and the guides typically keep the mood light and friendly throughout.

The Atomium Stop

Your first stop is at the Atomium, one of Brussels’s most recognizable symbols. Standing over 100 meters tall, with spheres representing Belgium’s nine provinces, it’s a striking sight. While admission to the inside isn’t included, even just viewing it from the outside is worth it for the photo ops. This quick 15-minute stop offers a chance to snap pictures before heading to Ghent. Some reviews mention that this is a brief stop, but it’s enough to appreciate its unique look and symbolism.

Arrival in Ghent

Once in Ghent, the tour kicks off with a walk into the city’s historic core. Ghent is celebrated for being one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe, and it’s easy to see why. The cobblestone streets, canals, and grand facades exude charm. The guided walking tour begins here, and your guide will lead you through the city’s highlights, sharing stories along the way.

Highlights of the Guided Tour

Your guide will point out key sights, starting with the Het Belfort van Gent, the city’s imposing tower, where you’ll hear about the dragon that adorns it. Visitors often find the story behind the dragon particularly intriguing. Then, you’ll move to St. Bavo’s Cathedral, home of the famous “Adoration of the Mystic Lamb” by the Van Eyck brothers—arguably Ghent’s most famous masterpiece. While entry inside requires some time, the tour mostly covers the exterior and the significance of the artwork.

Next, you’ll see the Saint Nicholas Church, a lively spot often hosting concerts and cultural events, and the Ghent Town Hall, where the architecture reflects various styles, adding to the city’s eclectic charm. Your guide will also tell you about the building that used to house the post office at Korenmarkt, giving you a touch of local history.

The Picturesque Canals and Guild Houses

As you continue along the Lys riverbank, the tour highlights the Graslei and Korenlei—the iconic canal-side streets lined with guild houses and historic buildings. They’re some of the most photogenic spots, especially from St. Michael’s Bridge, which offers panoramic views of the city. The guide will recount stories about the guild houses, such as the Masons’ Guild Hall, shedding light on Ghent’s trading past.

Market and Local Flavor

No visit to Ghent is complete without a taste of its local treats. The stop at Kleine Vismarkt, near the Great Butcher’s Hall, introduces visitors to the cuberdon, a famous Ghent candy. It’s a small, sweet detail that adds flavor (literally and figuratively) to your trip.

End of Guided Tour and Free Time

After the guided part, you’ll have about 4 hours of free time to explore at your own pace. Reviewers say this is enough to revisit favorite spots, grab a coffee, or shop for souvenirs. Some have used this time to enjoy local cafes, or even take a boat ride, depending on their interests. The flexibility here is appreciated, despite some comments about the length being either too much or too little depending on your plans.

End of Day and Return to Brussels

The tour concludes with final remarks and tips from your guide, including recommendations for food and shopping. The bus departs Ghent in the late afternoon, heading back to Brussels, with arrival around 6-7 pm. However, some reviews note that logistical hiccups at the end of the day—like difficulty finding parking or delays—have happened, so staying flexible is wise.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Given the price point—around $50—this tour offers a practical way to see Ghent’s most important sights without the hassle of planning transportation or guided city walks yourself. The inclusion of round-trip transfers, a professional guide, and a mix of guided visits plus free time makes it pretty good value. Reviewers consistently praise the guides, especially for their knowledge and friendliness, which enriches the experience.

That said, the tour does involve quite a bit of walking, and the schedule can feel a little tight if you want to linger longer at certain sites. The final logistical issues some experienced at the end of the day remind us to stay flexible and prepared for surprises. It’s also worth noting that the tour focuses on the main highlights, so if you’re after an in-depth deep dive into Ghent’s history or museums, you might want to consider additional activities.

Who is this best for?

This trip suits travelers who want a balanced overview of Ghent, enjoy guided walks, and appreciate free time for personal exploration. It’s great for those who value expert storytelling and don’t mind some walking. If you’re traveling solo, on a budget, or short on time but still want a well-organized day trip, this is a solid pick.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You’ll meet at the designated meeting point in Brussels.

How long is the free time in Ghent?
You’ll have about 4 hours of free time to explore on your own after the guided tour, depending on traffic and the group’s pace.

Are admission tickets to sites included?
No, admission to the Atomium is not included, and most other sites, like Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, are free to view from the outside.

What’s the best way to get to the meeting point?
The meeting point is near public transportation in Brussels, making it accessible from most city areas.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not explicitly mentioned, but given the walking and sightseeing focus, older children or teens who enjoy history and walking will likely find it engaging.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are a must. Also, consider bringing a water bottle, some snacks, and a camera for those scenic canal views.

In the end, this day trip to Ghent and the Atomium offers a practical, guided way to see some of Belgium’s most photogenic and historic sites without much fuss. While the schedule can be tight and logistical issues have been noted, the experience generally earns high marks for guide quality and value. Whether you’re a history buff, a casual sightseer, or someone eager to tick off a must-see city from your Belgium list, it’s worth considering—just stay flexible and ready to enjoy the ride.