From Brussels: Full-Day Antwerp and Ghent Guided Tour

If you’re looking to make the most of your trip to Belgium without spending days on the road, a full-day guided tour from Brussels to Antwerp and Ghent might just be the right choice. Based on many traveler reviews and detailed descriptions, this experience offers a well-organized way to see some of the country’s most photogenic and culturally rich cities in one day.

What we love about this tour is the seamless logistics — round-trip transfers from Brussels mean you don’t have to worry about navigating public transport or parking. Plus, the guided element ensures you’ll get insightful commentary and fascinating stories about each site, which makes the whole experience more meaningful.

On the flip side, one point to keep in mind is the length of the day — ten hours is quite the haul, especially if you’re not used to long tours. The schedule is packed, so if you prefer a more relaxed pace or want to explore museums in depth, you might find this tour a bit brisk. Still, for those who want a taste of Belgium’s key highlights in one go, it hits the sweet spot.

This tour is most suitable for travelers who want to maximize their sightseeing in Belgium, appreciate guided commentary, and don’t mind a full itinerary. It’s perfect if you’re traveling on a tight schedule or simply want to tick off two stunning cities from your list in one day.

Key Points

• Includes roundtrip transportation from Brussels, making logistics simple.
• Guided tours in both Antwerp and Ghent provide historical context and local insights.
• Flexible free time in each city allows for personal exploration and meals.
• Visit iconic sights like the Cathedral of San Bavón and the Belfort Bell Tower.
• Decent value for money at $53 per person, considering transportation, guide, and guided city walks.
• Not suitable for travelers with mobility impairments, due to the walking involved.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Experience

This day-long adventure typically kicks off at 8:30 AM with a pickup in the middle of Brussels, from Carrefour de l’Europe at Gare Central. The journey begins with a short ride to the Atomium, where you get a quick photo stop — a fun way to kick off the day with some instantly recognizable architecture. Although just a quick stop, travelers say it’s a nice photo opportunity that doesn’t eat into the day’s schedule.

Once in Antwerp, you’ll enjoy a guided tour lasting about 1.5 hours, covering the Meat Market, Steen Castle, Town Hall Square, and the Gothic-style Church of Our Lady. The tour is thorough enough to give you a real sense of Antwerp’s vibrant history and architecture, without feeling rushed. Many guests mention the guide’s storytelling skills and ability to highlight interesting landmarks, with reviews praising guides for being “excellent,” “knowledgeable,” and “helpful.”

After the guided tour, you get around 1.5 hours of free time. This is your chance to explore at your own pace — whether that’s grabbing a Belgian waffle, browsing the shops along Meir Street, or just soaking in the lively street scene. For many, this free time is a highlight, allowing space to relax or discover hidden gems away from the group.

Next, you’ll head to Ghent, a city often praised for its enchanting medieval architecture. The guided tour here rakes in about 1.5 hours, with must-see sites like San Bavón Cathedral — home to a Van Eyck masterpiece — and the Belfort Tower. Reviewers regularly mention the guides’ storytelling, with praise for their friendly demeanor and knowledge that make the history come alive.

Again, after the guided part, there’s another 1.5 hours of free time. Guests love having this flexibility, whether to enjoy local delicacies, explore alleyways, or snap photos of the city’s picturesque streets and buildings. The schedule is tight but manageable, offering a good balance between guided insights and personal exploration.

The return journey to Brussels takes around 1.5 hours, making this a long but rewarding day out. Reviewers consistently say the experience is very well-organized, and many mention how much they learned and enjoyed the chance to see two very different Belgian cities in just one trip.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The professionalism of the guides is a recurring theme in reviews. Whether it’s Sabrina, Julián, Sergio, or others, travelers mention guides who are not only knowledgeable but also friendly and attentive. It’s clear that a lot of effort goes into making sure everyone hears and understands the commentary, which enhances the overall experience.

The sights themselves are prime examples of Belgium’s charm — from Antwerp’s bustling streets and historic port to Ghent’s fairy-tale medieval center. Notable stops like San Bavón Cathedral and the Belfort Tower are heart-stopping sights that make the guided tours especially worthwhile.

The value for money is another plus. At $53 per person, including transportation, guides, and both city tours, many reviewers feel it’s a solid deal, especially given how much ground you cover in one day. Food and drinks aren’t included, but the free time gives you the opportunity to sample local snacks or sit down for a quick meal.

The schedule feels carefully curated — enough time in each city to see the main sights and enjoy some leisure, without feeling overly rushed. Guests love the balance, with many mentioning how they appreciated having plenty of suggestions and tips from guides on where to eat or shop.

What Could Be Better?

While most reviews are glowing, a few mention the long hours and the pace of the day. If you’re sensitive to walking or prefer to take your time in museums, this might feel a bit hurried. Also, the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues, as it involves a fair amount of walking around cobbled streets and historic sites.

It’s also worth noting that, since the tour is quite structured, those wanting more personalized or in-depth exploration might find this a little too brief. And for travelers who prefer to explore on their own, this guided setup might feel a bit restrictive.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits history lovers, first-time visitors, or anyone wanting to see Belgium’s highlights without the hassle of planning. It’s perfect if you want a guided overview of Antwerp and Ghent, with enough free time to explore or grab a snack.

It’s also a good pick for those on a tight schedule or travelers who appreciate having transportation taken care of, so they can focus on sightseeing and relaxing. If you’re traveling with a group or prefer a well-organized, stress-free day, this tour delivers.

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FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 10 hours, starting at 8:30 AM and returning to Brussels later in the day.

What’s included in the price?
Roundtrip bus transfers from Brussels, a professional guide, and guided tours of Antwerp and Ghent.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included — but the free time in each city allows you to find something tasty on your own.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the details don’t specify, children under 2 need to travel in a car seat, so make sure to bring one if needed. The walking might be a consideration for very young or mobility-impaired travelers.

How is the guide?
Many reviews praise the guides’ knowledge and friendliness, highlighting that they make the places come alive with stories and tips.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans shift.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are a must, given the amount of walking involved.

Final Thoughts

This full-day guided tour from Brussels to Antwerp and Ghent offers a practical and insightful way to experience Belgium’s highlights in just one day. The combination of well-organized logistics, engaging guides, and the freedom to explore each city makes it a standout choice for many travelers.

If you’re someone who appreciates a good balance of guided storytelling and personal discovery, this trip delivers on both counts. It’s ideal for those wanting a rundown without the hassle of self-planning or multiple travel arrangements. Just be prepared for a full day and lots of walking — but in return, you’ll get a memorable glimpse of two of Belgium’s most beautiful towns.

You can check availability for your dates here: