Private Sightseeing Day Trip to Ghent and Bruges from Amsterdam

Exploring Belgium’s Medieval Gems in a Day: Our Take on the Private Ghent & Bruges Tour from Amsterdam

If you’ve ever dreamed of wandering through fairy-tale towns like Ghent and Bruges but don’t want to spend nights in hotels or mess with train schedules, this private day trip could be just what you’re looking for. From what we’ve seen and heard, it offers a cozy, flexible way to tick off two of Belgium’s most stunning cities in one go—without the hassle of planning each step yourself.

What really stands out is the private driver aspect, which means no fighting for train seats or waiting in long taxi lines. Plus, with entrance tickets included to Gravensteen Castle, you get a taste of medieval history without adding to your costs. But, as with most full-day tours, be prepared for a long day—around 11.5 hours—so it’s best suited for those who enjoy packed itineraries and are ready for a bit of travel.

One thing to think about: this is a self-guided experience, so while you’re free to explore at your own pace, you won’t have a guide narrating every step. That works well if you’re comfortable navigating on your own or using audio guides, but it might not be ideal if you prefer a guided storytelling experience.

All in all, this tour feels like a good fit for travelers who want a luxurious, hands-off way to see two Belgian highlights in one day—especially if you value comfort, flexibility, and skipping the logistical fuss.

Key Points

• Comfortable private transport means no worries about train schedules or public transit complications.
• Flexible timing allows you to spend more or less time at each stop, making the day work for your pace.
• Included entrance to Gravensteen Castle adds a historical highlight without extra cost.
• It’s a long day, so be prepared for 11+ hours of travel and sightseeing.
• Self-guided touring gives you freedom but requires some independence.
• Good value considering the inclusions, especially for those who prefer a no-hassle approach.

The Experience in Detail

Starting the Day: Stress-Free Pickup and Transport

One of the biggest advantages of this tour is the hotel pickup and drop-off. Knowing that someone will come to fetch you from your accommodation in comfort instantly removes the stress of figuring out how to get to the bus station or train. The use of a luxury Mercedes ensures a smooth ride through the Dutch and Flemish countryside, which is quite a treat after a morning of travel.

The private driver/host is there to make your journey as relaxed as possible. While you’re not handed a full guidebook or commentary during transit, the quiet comfort of the vehicle is a real plus—especially if you want a bit of rest after or before your sightseeing.

The First Stop: Gravensteen Castle in Ghent

This medieval fortress is the tour’s star attraction, and for good reason. The entrance ticket is included, so you won’t need to worry about extra costs. The highlight here is the audio guide, which is available in multiple languages, including Dutch, French, English, German, and Spanish. The guide isn’t just informational—it’s infused with the wit of Wouter Deprez, who shares his fascination for Philip of Alsace and the castle’s history with a humorous touch.

Our favorite part is the illustrations by Randall Casaer, which add a quirky, artistic touch to the castle’s stories. According to reviews, visitors find the guide engaging and the castle itself quite captivating, offering a glimpse into a world of crusaders, castles, and courtly love.

Exploring Ghent

After the castle, there’s an optional 30-minute walk around the Ghent city center. It’s a good chance to see some of the city’s picturesque streets and historic buildings. Since this is a self-guided tour, you have the freedom to explore at your own pace or skip certain areas if you prefer.

Reviewers mention that Hamza (the driver) was helpful in navigating traffic and ensuring they maximized their time. It’s worth noting that the total time allocated for Ghent is around 2 hours, which includes the castle visit and the walk in the city.

Moving to Bruges: The Heart of the Tour

After Ghent, you’re whisked off to Bruges, often called the ‘Venice of the North’ for its stunning canals and medieval architecture. Once there, you’ll have about 2.5 hours to explore—more than enough time to see key sights and enjoy a leisurely lunch.

Highlights in Bruges include:

• The Belfort: Climb to the top for panoramic views or just snap some photos from the square.
• The Markt: The central square, perfect for a relaxed walk or some people-watching.
• Basilica of the Holy Blood: Even if you don’t go inside, the exterior alone is worth admiring.
• Canal cruise: Available if the weather allows, adding a scenic perspective of the city.

A common theme in reviews is how knowledgeable and attentive the driver was. One traveler appreciated that their driver, Gavin, knew the best spots to start their explorations and made the experience smooth and enjoyable.

Optional Visits and Tastings in Bruges

The tour also offers several additional options like visiting the Choco-Story chocolate museum or the De Halve Maan Brewery—perfect if you’re a chocolate or beer enthusiast. The Chocolate Bruges shop is another highlight for buying Belgian waffles and chocolates, though these are on your own dime.

While these extras aren’t included in the price, they give you an opportunity to indulge in Bruges’ famed culinary treats.

Free Time in the Heart of Bruges

Most of your afternoon is dedicated to free exploration—about 3 hours. This is where you can wander at your own pace, snap photos, or simply soak in the medieval ambiance. Reviewers have mentioned that it’s a lovely time to stroll along the canals or visit local shops, especially if you’re a fan of Belgian chocolates or waffles.

Wrapping Up: Returning to Amsterdam

After a full day of sightseeing and exploration, your driver will take you back to your hotel in Amsterdam. The total duration is around 11 hours 30 minutes, a long but rewarding experience that covers a lot of ground.

Analyzing the Value

At $650.38 per person, this tour might seem pricey at first glance. But when you consider the convenience of private transport, the included castle tickets, and the flexibility to explore at your own pace, it starts to make more sense.

One traveler pointed out that the long drive time—around 7.5 hours round trip—is significant, but the comfort of traveling in a private vehicle makes it manageable. If you’re someone who prefers stress-free logistics and the freedom to explore without guiding, this isn’t a bad deal.

The Downsides

A couple of reviews highlight potential hiccups: one guest experienced a no-show guide, which was due to vehicle breakdown—an unfortunate but rare event. The day is long, and if you’re not used to full-day excursions, it could feel tiring. Plus, since it’s self-guided, you’ll need to be comfortable navigating and managing your own schedule.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who values comfort and flexibility, this tour offers a relaxing way to see two beautiful Belgian towns. It’s an excellent choice for those who prefer not to deal with the logistics of trains or buses, and those who enjoy wandering at their own rhythm. It’s also well-suited for travelers interested in medieval castles, historical architecture, and Belgian culture, especially if you enjoy a bit of leisure time for shopping and tasting.

However, if you’re looking for a guided experience with storytelling at every stop, this might not be ideal. Also, if you’re sensitive to long travel days, consider whether a half-day trip might suit your energy levels better.

FAQ

Is this a guided tour?
No, it’s a self-guided experience, meaning you can explore the stops at your own pace after the driver drops you off.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, private transport in a luxury vehicle, a professional driver/host, entrance tickets for Gravensteen Castle, bottled water, and wifi on board.

Can I visit other sites in Ghent or Bruges?
While the itinerary lists specific stops, you have the flexibility to explore beyond the planned spots during your free time, but additional tickets or arrangements would be on you.

How long is the drive from Amsterdam to Belgium?
The round trip takes about 7.5 hours of travel, which is quite a long time, but the comfort of private transport makes it manageable.

Are there any family-friendly aspects?
The tour is primarily a sightseeing experience suited for adults interested in history and architecture. It’s not specifically designed for children, but older kids who enjoy walking and exploring will likely find it engaging.

What about the weather?
Some activities like canal cruises are weather-dependent, especially in summer. Always check the forecast and dress appropriately for the day.

What happens if the driver or vehicle has an issue?
In rare cases, like a vehicle breakdown, the company aims to communicate promptly and resolve the issue, including providing refunds or alternative arrangements if needed.

To sum it up, this private day trip to Ghent and Bruges from Amsterdam offers a relaxed, flexible way to enjoy two of Belgium’s most photogenic and historic cities. It’s perfect for travelers who want comfort, independence, and a taste of medieval grandeur—all without the stress of planning every detail themselves. While it’s a long day, the ease and inclusions provide solid value—especially if you’re eager to see these towns without the fuss. Just remember, it’s best suited for those comfortable with a self-guided format and long travel hours.