Private Tour: Ghent and Bruges From Brussels Full Day

A Personalized Day Exploring Bruges and Ghent from Brussels

If you’re after a full-day taste of Belgium’s most charming cities—Bruges and Ghent—this private tour offers a flexible, comfortable way to see both in one go. For $624 per person, you’ll get a dedicated guide, private transport, and the chance to craft your itinerary around what interests you most. The tour lasts about 8 hours, starting between 9 and 10 am, making it a manageable day trip from Brussels.

Two things we really appreciate about this experience are the personalized approach—your guide works with you to highlight what matters most—and the private transportation, which makes the day stress-free and flexible. We also love how you get time to explore at your own pace, especially in Bruges, where the cobblestone streets and fairy-tale scenery beckon for leisurely wandering.

A potential drawback is that, since lunch isn’t included, you’ll need to plan for a meal, which can be a small inconvenience but also a chance to enjoy local eateries at your own pace. This tour suits travelers who want an in-depth, tailored experience without the hassle of navigating on your own, especially those eager to learn from an insider guide and enjoy a more relaxed day.

Key Points

Customizable itinerary allows you to focus on the sights that interest you most.
Private transport ensures comfort and flexibility throughout the day.
Expert guides provide engaging stories and insights into the cities’ history and architecture.
Time in Bruges and Ghent is balanced to give you a thorough experience of each city’s highlights.
No lunch included, so plan your meal break accordingly.
Accessible for wheelchair users, making the experience more inclusive.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Bruges: The Venice of the North

Starting your day in Bruges, you’ll quickly notice why it’s often called the “Venice of the North”. Its network of canals, surrounded by medieval buildings, offers stunning views at every turn. The tour focuses on iconic sights like Market Square and the Belfry Tower—you’ll get a chance to linger here or just enjoy the panoramic views from the Belfry’s top.

What makes Bruges so special is the way the city’s historic architecture and canals intertwine, creating a picture-perfect scene. Walking along the narrow cobblestone streets, you’ll encounter historic bridges and picturesque waterways that look like they belonged in a fairy tale. A highlight is the Church of Our Lady, home to a Michelangelo sculpture—Madonna and Child—that’s worth a moment of admiration.

If you love tranquil spots, the Minnewater Lake and Beguinage provide a quieter glimpse of Bruges’ softer side. Here, you can breathe in the peaceful atmosphere and appreciate the city’s more hidden corners. And of course, no visit is complete without sampling some Belgian chocolate, waffles, or a local beer—many guides will suggest top spots for these treats during your free time.

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Discovering Ghent: A Medieval Treasure with a Modern Twist

After lunch, your private guide will transport you to Ghent, a city that blends history with lively street life. The Saint Bavo’s Cathedral is a highlight, especially for art lovers, as it houses the Mystic Lamb Altarpiece, one of the most famous paintings in the world. The grandeur of this cathedral reflects Ghent’s importance during the medieval period.

The Graslei and Korenlei canals offer some of the best views of Ghent’s medieval quays—brightly colored facades, narrow alleys, and lively cafes line these waterways, giving the city a vibrant yet historic vibe. For a deeper dive into Ghent’s medieval history, you’ll visit Gravensteen Castle, a real fortress with towers and ramparts you can explore. It’s a tangible link to Ghent’s past as a powerful medieval city.

The Three Towers of Ghent are another must-see, offering iconic views that capture the city’s unique skyline. According to reviews, guides like Henry provide a wealth of interesting stories, making the history much more engaging than just reading plaques.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This private tour’s main strength lies in its flexibility and expert guidance. Since it’s tailored to your interests, you can spend more time in places that fascinate you—whether that’s art, architecture, or local food. The private transport ensures you’re not constrained by group schedules, and you can enjoy a relaxed pace, especially in the cities’ historic centers.

The guides’ knowledge and storytelling are often praised. One reviewer called Andrea “amazing,” highlighting her friendliness and depth of knowledge, which made the experience more enriching. The guide’s insights turn what could be a standard sightseeing day into a memorable learning experience.

From a practical standpoint, the comfort of private transportation is a big plus, especially in Belgium’s unpredictable weather or if you’re traveling with luggage or mobility challenges. Plus, hotel pickup and drop-off mean you avoid the hassle of navigating public transit or parking.

The Value of the Experience

At $624 per person, the price may seem high at first glance. But when you consider the personalized service, expert guides, private transport, and the opportunity to see two top Belgian cities comfortably in one day, the value adds up. You’re paying for a tailored experience that hits the highlights and some hidden gems, all without the stress of planning and navigation.

Keep in mind, the cost does not include entrance fees, boat trips, or lunch, so budgeting for meals and tickets is wise if you want to visit specific attractions like museums or take a canal cruise.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is well-suited for travelers who value personalized attention and want to explore at their own pace. It’s ideal if you prefer a more relaxed, in-depth day compared to larger group tours. History buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and food lovers will appreciate the guides’ storytelling and the chance to try local specialties.

Because it’s wheelchair accessible and private, it’s also a good choice for those with mobility considerations or traveling with a small group. If you’re the kind of traveler who enjoys customizing your day and hates feeling rushed, this tour will tick those boxes.

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The Sum Up

This private tour offers a thoughtfully curated, flexible way to see Bruges and Ghent in a single day. The combination of expert guides, private transport, and personalized itinerary creates a comfortable and enriching experience—perfect for those who want to avoid cookie-cutter tours and instead focus on what interests them most.

You’ll love the stunning views and fascinating stories that guides bring to life, making each city’s history and architecture more accessible. The chance to enjoy the cities at your own pace, with no worry about navigating public transit or parking, makes this experience especially appealing.

While the price might seem steep, the value lies in the quality of the experience. It’s an excellent option for travelers craving a more intimate, tailored day trip with plenty of opportunities to savor Belgium’s medieval charm and modern vibrancy.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, insightful, and private way to explore Belgium’s highlights—this tour is a strong choice. Just remember to plan for lunch on your own and bring comfortable shoes to wander those cobblestone streets with ease.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it more inclusive for travelers with mobility concerns.

How long is the drive between Brussels and the cities?
The tour includes private transportation, but specific drive times aren’t listed. Expect a comfortable, air-conditioned ride between Brussels, Ghent, and Bruges.

Does the tour include entrance fees?
No, entrance fees are not included. You might find some attractions, like museums or the castle, require additional tickets if you choose to visit them.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, since it’s a private tour, your guide works with you to tailor the experience to your interests.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking on cobblestone streets, and don’t forget to have some cash or cards for meals or souvenirs.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not part of the package. You’ll have free time to find a local restaurant or cafe.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides can speak English, Dutch, French, Italian, Portuguese, and Spanish.

What is the maximum group size?
Since it’s a private tour, it is designed for your group only—ideal for small families, couples, or friends.

What time does the tour typically start?
Most departures are recommended between 9:00 am and 10:00 am, but you can choose based on your schedule.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking at least a few days ahead is recommended, especially during peak travel season, to secure your preferred time.

This private day trip from Brussels offers a fantastic way to experience Belgium’s medieval gems with comfort, flexibility, and a personal touch. Whether you’re captivated by Bruges’ fairy-tale charm or Ghent’s vibrant history, this tour makes it all accessible and memorable.