Brussels: Bruges & Ghent Tour with Cruise & Chocolate Visit

A delightful day exploring Flanders’ gems — Bruges and Ghent — in just 10 hours. Led by passionate guides, this tour takes you through winding cobblestone streets, scenic canal rides, and sweet indulgences at a renowned chocolatier. For around the price of a nice dinner, you get a well-rounded taste of Belgian charm, history, and culture. Two things we especially love? The stunning views from the canal cruise and the insider knowledge from guides like Matteo, who makes history come alive with stories and humor. One possible caveat? The busy schedule means you’ll be on the move, so comfort with walking and a good pair of shoes are essential. This tour suits those who want a comprehensive taste of Flanders without sacrificing time or comfort, especially if you’re keen on authentic experiences and memorable photo ops.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Includes visits to both Bruges and Ghent, two of Flanders’ most picturesque cities
• Scenic canal cruise in Ghent offers a unique perspective of the city’s historic architecture
• Visit to a famous chocolatier in Bruges, complete with tastings, perfect for sweet tooth travelers
• Flexible free time in both cities allows for personalized exploration
• Live guidance enhances understanding and adds humor and local insights
• Optional upgrade to Belgian Beer World for beer enthusiasts

Exploring the Belgian Highlights: A Balance of History, Flavor, and Scenery

This tour offers an excellent way to experience two of Belgium’s most charming cities—Bruges and Ghent— in a single day. The trip kicks off with comfortable transportation from Brussels, which is just a short coach ride away. The journey itself is smooth and offers a chance to settle in before diving into the day’s adventures. The tour is designed for those who want a balanced mix of guided sightseeing, free time, and special treats like chocolate and canal views.

The Magic of Bruges: Walking Through Time

Once in Bruges, your guide—like the enthusiastic Matteo described in reviews—leads you through some of the city’s most picturesque spots. Expect to stroll through cobbled streets and medieval squares, with the highlight being the Markt Square, where historic buildings and lively cafés create a postcard-perfect scene. If you choose to climb the famous Belfry Tower, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the city—an experience many travelers find worth the effort.

The guided tour is around 45 minutes, offering rich insights into Bruges’ medieval architecture and history. If you love photography or simply want to soak up the vibe, this is a great starting point. We loved the way the guide kept the group engaged, sharing stories that made the city’s history feel alive, not just a series of facts.

A Sweet Break: Belgian Chocolate at Pol Depla

No visit to Belgium is complete without tasting its famous chocolate. The tour’s visit to a well-known chocolatier, Pol Depla, is a highlight for many. Here, you get a behind-the-scenes look at how Belgian chocolates are crafted, and of course, a generous tasting session. It’s a perfect moment to indulge and appreciate the craftsmanship behind Belgium’s beloved export. Multiple reviews praise guides like Matteo for explaining the process clearly and making the experience both fun and informative.

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Scenic Canal Cruise in Ghent: A Different Perspective

After the chocolate tasting, the bus takes you to Ghent, where you’ll enjoy a scenic canal cruise. This hour-long boat ride offers a rare view of the city’s historic facades, hidden alleyways, and impressive landmarks like Gravensteen Castle and Saint Bavo Cathedral from the water. Many find this a “magical” way to see Ghent’s architecture and get a feel for the city’s lively ambiance. The guides on board share stories about Ghent’s past, adding context to the sights you’ll pass.

The cruise is appreciated for being relaxing and providing a peaceful contrast to the busy streets on foot. It’s especially valued by travelers who enjoy seeing cities from a different angle or want a break from walking.

Free Time: Explore at Your Own Pace

Following the cruise, you’re given around 1.5 hours to explore Ghent freely. This is your chance to wander along the Graslei and Korenlei quays, browse boutique shops, or duck into museums that catch your eye. The tour guide will offer recommendations, but this part of the day really lets you tailor your experience. Some reviews mention wandering through charming streets or enjoying local snacks, making the most of their personal interests.

Practical Considerations & Value

The entire experience wraps up with a comfortable bus ride back to Brussels. The cost includes luxury transportation, guided tours, chocolate tasting, and the canal cruise, which together deliver great value considering the full day of sightseeing. Optional upgrades, like tickets to the Belgian Beer World, add another layer of enjoyment for beer lovers, further immersing you in Belgian culture.

While food and drinks outside the tour are not included, the flexible free time allows you to grab a meal or snack at your own pace—something we consider a plus, giving you control over what and where to eat.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip suits history buffs, foodies, and anyone curious about Belgian culture but short on time. It’s particularly ideal for travelers who appreciate authentic city strolls, scenic water views, and sweet treats. The guides’ enthusiasm and local insights make the experience richer, especially if you enjoy learning from passionate storytellers like Matteo.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a well-organized, immersive day in two of Belgium’s most picturesque cities. You’ll enjoy walking through medieval streets, tasting world-famous chocolates, and cruising scenic canals—all in one day. The combination of guided insights and free time makes it flexible and engaging, perfect for those who want a balanced mix of structured sightseeing and personal exploration.

The value for money is solid, considering transportation, guided tours, and special experiences like the chocolate tasting and canal cruise. The experience is especially suited for travelers who want to see the highlights without rushing or overextending themselves.

If you’re looking to capture the essence of Belgium’s charm, indulge in its famous chocolates, and experience its beautiful waterways, this tour makes a compelling choice. It’s a straightforward, enjoyable way to make the most of your day with knowledgeable guides, scenic sights, and sweet moments.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 10 hours, with specific start times depending on availability.

What’s included in the tour?
Transportation by luxury coach, a guided walk in Bruges, a visit to a chocolatier with tastings, a canal cruise in Ghent, and free time to explore. Upgrades to Belgian Beer World are optional.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but you have free time in both cities to find your own meals.

Is the tour suitable for people with walking difficulties?
This tour involves walking and climbing (like the Belfry), so it’s not recommended for those with mobility issues.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended. You can cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund.

How do I recognize the guide?
The guide will be holding a sign with the Tourcompany logo and the tour name, near Brussels Central Station.

Can children participate?
Infants can join if they sit on a parent’s lap; older children will find plenty to enjoy, especially the chocolate.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are essential. You might also want a camera, water, and weather-appropriate clothing.

Is this tour available in multiple languages?
Yes, it may be operated in both Spanish and English, depending on the day.

How flexible is the free time?
It allows you to explore at your own pace, with recommendations from guides for the best spots to visit.

This tour blends history, scenery, and sweet indulgences, making it an ideal day trip. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for a quick taste of Belgium, it offers a balanced, memorable experience that captures the heart of Flanders.

You can check availability for your dates here: