Brussels makes an excellent base for full-day excursions because of its central location, excellent transportation links, and wealth of easily accessible sights. Whether you’re after a taste of medieval Europe, a day exploring Belgium’s vibrant cities, or private tailored experiences, the list below offers plenty of options. We particularly like the guided tours that include professional guides, meaningful tastings, and the chance to see both famous landmarks and lesser-known wonders — like the Antwerp Diamond District or the Princely Beguinage in Bruges.
Some tours focus on historic city centers, with options like the From Brussels: Antwerp and Ghent Guided Tour offering a full perspective on Belgium’s cultural riches in one day. Others, like the Private Guided Full-day in Antwerp and Brussels with Tastings, combine sightseeing with food and drink for a more immersive experience. If you’re after a classic Belgian experience, the Bruges Full-Day Trip by Train lets you relax and wander through cobbled streets, while private options cater to those wanting a more personalized touch.
1. From Brussels: Full-Day Antwerp and Ghent Guided Tour
At number 1, this guided tour covers two of Belgium’s most beautiful cities—Antwerp and Ghent— in a single day. The tour includes round-trip transfers from Brussels and a professional guide who brings the cities’ stories to life. The itinerary features stops at iconic sights like the Cathedral of San Bavón in Ghent and a photo stop at the Atomium for a bit of Brussels cityscape before heading into Belgium’s artistic and commercial hubs.
Guests consistently praise the organization and commentary. One reviewer called it “a great trip, well organized and informative,” highlighting the guide’s ability to point out landmarks and suggest local restaurants. The tour balances guided walks through historic neighborhoods with free time to explore at your own pace. The highlight is visiting Antwerp’s diamond district and enjoying a walk around Ghent’s canals and medieval buildings.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive day with expert guidance, combining sightseeing with cultural insights. If you like your history with a side of shopping and local flavor, this one’s a good pick.
2. From Brussels: Bruges Full-Day Trip by Train
Number 2 on our list is a cost-effective way to see one of Europe’s most charming towns. This 8-hour guided trip to Bruges includes round-trip train transportation from Brussels, letting you relax while experts handle the logistics. The tour explores Medieval architecture, the Market Square, and the Benedictine convent of the Begijnhof.
Guides like Heloise and Louise are praised for their enthusiasm and depth of knowledge. One reviewer appreciated Heloise’s humor and cultural insights, making the trip memorable. The itinerary includes tasting Belgian chocolates and trying local dishes like moules frites with Belgian beer, adding a tasty touch to your sightseeing. You’ll also have free time to browse shops or enjoy lunch.
Bottom line: If you’re on a budget but still want a rich experience of Bruges, this tour balances value with quality. It’s ideal for those who prefer self-guided free time after a guided overview.
3. From Brussels: Bruges and Ghent Full-Day Trip by Train
For around $79, this train-based day trip offers a rundown of two of Belgium’s most beautiful medieval cities. The tour includes walking tours of Bruges’ canals and Ghent’s historic port, with stops at the Castle of Gravensteen and St Bavo’s Cathedral.
Guests rave about the knowledgeable guides and the balance of guided sightseeing and free time. One reviewer called the experience “fantastic” and appreciated the combination of historic sites and local flavors like Belgian chocolates. The trip is well-suited for travelers who want to maximize their time without the hassle of self-driving or train schedules.
Bottom line: This is a solid choice for travelers seeking a full-day, budget-friendly tour with plenty of photo opportunities and cultural highlights.
4. Private Guided Full-day in Antwerp and Brussels with Tastings
Number 4 is a luxury experience with personalized attention. It begins with a hotel pickup and features a private guide and driver exploring Antwerp and Brussels for about 11 hours. The tour includes walking tours, a visit to Chocolate Nation or the Diamond Museum, and tastings of Belgian chocolates and beers.
Guests note that the guide’s enthusiasm and custom itinerary make this a memorable trip. The tour is perfect for travelers who want to enjoy Belgian culture while avoiding the busy crowds. Since it’s a private experience, it’s highly flexible—tailoring stops to your interests.
Bottom line: This tour offers excellent value for money if you’re after a luxury, private tour with food and drink tastings, ideal for couples or small groups wanting a personalized experience.
5. Private Full-Day Tour Bruges & Ghent from Brussels with Tastings
At number 5, this private guided day trip takes you through both Bruges and Ghent with a private vehicle and driver, offering a personalized itinerary. It includes stops at medieval sites, local tastings of chocolates, beer, and waffles, and an interactive presentation during the journey.
Guests comment on the expert guidance and the well-paced itinerary. The trip is ideal for small groups or couples who want a more intimate experience, with the flexibility to choose what they see. The inclusion of skip-the-line tickets makes sure you get the most out of your day.
Bottom line: Best suited for those who prefer a tailored experience with culinary highlights, this tour balances personalized service with a rich sightseeing agenda.
6. Private tour : Treasures of Flanders Ghent and Bruges from Brussels Full day
Number 6 offers a private, customizable exploration of Ghent and Bruges, including canal rides and visits to Gothic churches. The tour emphasizes learning about the region’s art, architecture, and history, with focus points like the Basilica of Holy Blood.
Guests praise the flexibility and insider knowledge. The itinerary can be tailored to focus on specific interests, making it ideal for travelers seeking a personalized experience. The cost per person is higher, but the customization and private transport justify the expense.
Bottom line: If you want full control over your itinerary and expert guidance, this private tour provides a deeply personalized way to enjoy Belgium’s treasures.
7. Private tour : Ghent and Bruges From Brussels Full Day
Number 7 is a private, flexible day trip focused on seeing the highlights like the Belfry and Saint Bavo’s Cathedral. Your driver and guide will take you to hidden spots and give you plenty of photo opportunities.
Guests mention that the guide’s knowledge and personalized approach enhance the experience. The duration is around 8 hours, making it suitable for travelers with limited time but a desire to cover both cities comfortably. Entrance to St Michael’s Church is included.
Bottom line: This is a good choice for those who want a private, tailored experience with more time on foot in each city.
8. Full day Brugge & Ghent: the gems of Flanders
Number 8 is a private tour that promises to cover more than the usual sights. It includes visits to canals, hidden corners, and local neighborhoods, making it ideal for travelers interested in authentic experiences beyond the main tourist spots.
Guests love the personalized attention and the chance to see lesser-known sites. The private nature of this tour allows for flexibility and customization.
Bottom line: If you’re after a more in-depth and personalized exploration of Bruges and Ghent, this tour will satisfy your curiosity.
9. Full day Brussels
Number 9 is a compact, all-encompassing tour of Brussels itself. It covers Grand Place, Atomium, and other major landmarks, providing a broad overview of the city’s highlights in 6-8 hours. It’s ideal for first-timers who want to get a taste of Brussels’ major sights.
Reviews mention that the guided commentary and well-chosen stops make it a smooth introduction. It’s not a deep dive but offers good value for those short on time.
Bottom line: Perfect for first-time visitors wanting a quick, comprehensive tour of Brussels.
10. Full Day Excursion to Dinant and Namur from Brussels
Number 10 takes you beyond the cities, exploring Dinant and Namur along the Meuse River. Highlights include the Dinant fortress, Charles de Gaulle Bridge, and scenic river views.
Guests enjoy the comfortable train ride and the opportunity to see historic sites and landscapes. It’s good for travelers who want a relaxing day in nature with some historic sightseeing.
Bottom line: This trip suits those looking for scenery and small-town charm, away from busy city streets.
11. Discover Ghent and Bruges in Private day trip from Brussels
This private tour combines personalized guiding with hotel pickup and focuses on seeing the highlights of both cities. The small-group setting ensures personal attention, and the day includes visits like St Bavo’s Cathedral and Minnewater Lake.
Guests note the driver’s expertise and the knowledgeable guide as standout features. It’s an excellent option for travelers seeking convenience and flexibility.
Bottom line: If hassle-free, tailored sightseeing is your priority, this private tour will meet your needs perfectly.
$695.17 per person
12. Private tour : Luxembourg & Dinant from Brussels Full day
Number 12 offers a full-day private experience of Dinant’s key sights plus a visit to Luxembourg. Highlights include the Dinant Citadel and the Grand Dukes’ Palace in Luxembourg.
Guests praise the customizable itinerary and private guide, making it ideal for those wanting an intimate, flexible adventure. The luxury transport ensures comfort for the day.
Bottom line: This tour suits travelers who want a luxury, personalized, and scenic experience across Belgium and Luxembourg.
$930.52 per person
13. Private tour : Traditional Holland and Amsterdam city tour from Brussels
Number 13 combines a rural Dutch experience with city sights in Amsterdam. It includes a Dutch farmstead visit, Canal boat trip, and stops at Dam Square and the Royal Palace.
Guests mention the expert guidance and unique access to a Dutch farm as highlights. This tour is ideal for those seeking a full immersion in Dutch culture.
Bottom line: Best for curious travelers wanting a comprehensive view of Holland’s countryside and Amsterdam’s highlights.
$926.89 per person
14. Ghent and Bruges Full Day Tour from Brussels
This group tour offers a full day of sightseeing in both cities, with walking tours, boat rides, and visits to landmarks like St Bavo’s Cathedral and the Belfry.
Guests note the well-paced schedule and friendly guides. It’s a good balance for travelers who want a full overview with some free time.
Bottom line: Suitable for first-time visitors seeking an organized, comprehensive day trip.
15. Full-Day City Tour of Ghent and Bruges from Brussels
Number 15 combines efficient sightseeing of two medieval cities, focusing on key landmarks like St Bavo’s Cathedral and the Market Square. It also offers optional boat trips.
Guests appreciate the informative guides and relaxed pace. It’s perfect for short-stay travelers wanting to maximize their time.
Bottom line: An easy choice for those wanting a straightforward, well-organized overview of both cities.
16. Private tour : Best of Bruges From Brussels Full Day
Last but not least, this private day trip combines customized sightseeing with the comfort of private transportation. It covers Market Square, some lesser-known churches, and offers the option for a canal boat ride.
Guests praise the personalized guidance and flexibility. It’s a great fit for travelers who want more than just the highlights.
Bottom line: For a hassle-free, private experience with plenty of opportunities to explore at your own pace, this tour is ideal.
How to Choose Your Perfect Full-Day Tour in Brussels
Choosing between these options depends on your budget, interests, and preferred style of travel. If you want a comprehensive guided experience with plenty of commentary, the Antwerp and Ghent guided tour is hard to beat. For budget travelers or those craving independence, the Bruges full-day by train offers excellent value. Private tours like the Treasures of Flanders or Best of Bruges are ideal for those wanting more personalized attention and a tailored itinerary.
Consider your fitness level — many tours involve walking through cobbled streets or historic sites. If you’re pressed for time, the full city tours of Brussels provide quick but insightful overviews. And for those interested in culinary experiences, tours with tastings of chocolates, beers, and waffles make the trip even sweeter.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred time and avoid disappointment. Check availability and start planning your Belgian adventure today!
In summary, whether you’re after a guided group experience, a luxury private day, or an inexpensive way to see Bruges and Ghent, Brussels’s full-day tours cater to all tastes. The key is to match your interests and travel style with the tour that offers the best value and experience. Happy travels!