Ghent: Day Trips and Tours from Brussels

Nestled in the heart of Belgium, just a short train ride away from the vibrant city of Brussels, lies the captivating city of Ghent. Often overshadowed by its more famous counterparts like Bruges and Brussels, Ghent is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered — boasting a rich history, picturesque canals and several architectural marvels, this medieval city offers an unforgettable day trip experience for travelers.

Whether you're an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a charming escape from the hustle and bustle, a Ghent day trip from Brussels has something for everyone.

Here's all you need to know about Ghent, one of the most exciting day trips from Brussels.

How to get to Ghent from Brussels?

Ghent is located in the northern part of Belgium, in the Flanders region. Situated approximately 30 miles (50 kilometers) northwest of Brussels, Ghent is easily accessible and makes for a perfect day trip destination from the country's capital.

From Brussels to Ghent by car

To reach Ghent from Brussels by car, take the E40 motorway west towards Ghent and follow the signs. The journey usually takes around 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Parking is available in Ghent, but it's recommended to use public transport within the city center due to limited parking spaces.

From Brussels to Ghent by public transport

Getting to Ghent from Brussels by public transport is convenient. Trains depart regularly from Brussels' major train stations, such as Brussels-Central or Brussels-Midi, and the journey takes approximately 35 minutes.

Ghent's main train station, Gent-Sint-Pieters, is well-connected to the city center via tram or bus services. A Ghent City Card can be a useful option for unlimited travel on public transport within the city and it provides access to major attractions as well.

Guided tour to Ghent from Brussels

The most popular option for first-time visitors, a guided tour to Ghent offers numerous benefits for travelers. Since you will have your own friendly, knowledgable, English-speaking guide with you, all the stress of navigating and planning is removed. You will get to see the most important attractions in Ghent, as well as some hidden gems off the beaten path and learn more about its unique history along the way.

Some guided tours also visit nearby Bruges, which is only a 30-minute drive away. This allows you to experience two of Belgium's most beautiful cities in one day without having to worry about the logistics involved with traveling between them.

What is the typical itinerary?

Every tour is unique, however, the typical itinerary for a guided tour to Ghent from Belgium usually follows a similar structure, give or take a couple of attractions.

The tour begins with convenient pickup from your requested location in Brussels. From there, your guide will take you to Ghent, where you'll explore its historic city center and visit major attractions such as the Gravensteen Castle and St Bavo's Cathedral (home to the remarkable Ghent Altarpiece).

From there, you'll usually have some time to explore the medieval center of the city, strolling through the enchanting streets lined with picturesque guildhalls, charming squares, and vibrant markets. Decorated with flags and lined with vintage stores, Serpentstraat is a great place to wander and shop, likewise Sint-Pietersnieuwstraat. The Patershol neighborhood is also a common destination,  with its narrow cobblestone lanes and quaint restaurants serving traditional cuisine.

Speaking of food, during the tour, you'll have the opportunity to indulge in a handful of Ghent's culinary delights. Your guide will recommend local eateries where you can savor traditional Belgian dishes like moules-frites (mussels and fries) or heavenly Belgian chocolates.

The tour often continues with a visit to the Graslei, a waterfront promenade with incredible views of Ghent's historic skyline — you'll have some time to take photos and learn about the local history at your own pace.

Depending on the tour, a visit to Bruges may be included too. Here, you can traverse its picturesque cobblestone streets and canals, explore the Markt Square, climb the Belfry of Bruges, take a boat tour of the city, or just relax in a café with a beer.

Either way, at the end of your tour, you will be taken back to Brussels where you started from.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Ghent?

If you're considering a journey from Brussels to Ghent, you'll be pleased to find an array of tour choices at your disposal. Whether you lean towards intimate group tours, exclusive day trips, or comprehensive excursions encompassing multiple attractions or cities, there is a tour that caters to your preferences. Let's check out the most popular options for Ghent day trips from Brussels.

Bus day trip to Ghent

Focusing solely on Ghent and lasting around 9 or 10 hours, this day trip from Brussels offers a convenient way to check off all of Ghent's major attractions — with a few hidden gems thrown in for good measure.

With a professional English-speaking guide accompanying you and some fellow travelers, you'll visit top sights like St. Bavo's Cathedral, the Castle of Gerald the Devil, the Belfort bell tower, the Renaissance city hall, the the Masons’ Guild House and the Graslei and Korenlei waterfront areas.

The tour includes round-trip transfers from Brussels, allowing you to travel in comfort. You'll have free time (usually around 4 hours) for shopping and exploring, making it a flexible and enjoyable day trip.

Full day tour to Ghent and Bruges

The Bruges & Ghent Full-Day Trip from Brussels offers a comprehensive exploration of two enchanting Flemish cities. Start in Bruges with a walking tour of its historic heart, visiting landmarks like the Beguinage, Brewery De Halve Maan and the Lake of Love.

You'll have time to explore Bruges' cobbled streets on foot, and, depending on your particular tour, embark on a boat trip along its narrow canals.

In Ghent, marvel at the Gothic Saint Bavo Cathedral, explore the picturesque harbor of Graslei and visit the medieval castle of Gravensteen.

This roughly 10-hour guided tour includes transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and optional extras like a canal trip and entrance to "The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb" by the Van Eyck Brothers. It's a fantastic way to discover the beauty, history, and flavors of these captivating cities in a single day.

Several options are available for this style of multi-city tour; sometimes, the order is reversed, visiting Ghent first and Bruges second.

Small group full-day trip to Antwerp and Ghent

A great option for those looking to explore multiple cities in a single day, this Ghent & Antwerp Full-Day Trip from Brussels takes you on an exploration of two of Belgium's most popular destinations.

After being picked up from a central meeting point in Brussels, you'll drive north toward Antwerp, stopping at the iconic Atomium for a couple photos along the way.

The tour then officially begins with a walking tour of Antwerp, where you'll be able to marvel at 16th century architecture and learn about the city's rich cultural history. You can expect to see sights like the Town Hall Square, the Meat Market, and the Gothic-style Cathedral of Our Lady.

Next you'll travel to Ghent where you'll be escorted to  the city's stunning Saint Bavo Cathedral, and learn about the famous work of art, "The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb", which is housed there. You'll also visit one of Ghent's most iconic squares - Graslei — a picturesque harbor lined with charming houses. The tour usually ends with a visit to Gravensteen Castle, before  you're driven back to Brussels.

Itineraries may change slightly, however, the experienced guide and driver will always ensure that you get to experience the best of Ghent and Antwerp, deending on which events and/pr attractions are most worthwhile on any given day.

Private tour to Treasures of Flanders

Suited to travelers who prefer to travel in luxury or to be able to customize their itinerary, the Treasures of Flanders private tour from Brussels is a highly-flexible day trip perfect for families, couples or small groups.

With your own private driver and guide, you'll explore the historic streets, canals, and landmarks of Ghent and Bruges. You can either let your guide take care of everything or you can plan an individual route around Ghent and Bruges — and, if you feel so inclined, other destinations around Flanders such as Ypres.

How much does a day trip to Ghent from Brussels cost?

The price of a  day trip from Brussels to Ghent varies depending on the chosen tour but generally start at around €45 per person.

A guided bus tour to Ghent will set you back around €45-€60 per person, while multi-city tours (such as those to Antwerp or Bruges in addition to Ghent) range from €45-€70 per person.

A more luxurious private tour to Ghent (such as the Private Treasures of Flanders tour) with your own driver and guide will cost around €600, but this is usually priced per vehicle, not per person.

All prices include guided walking tours, transportation, your own guide, and usually most entrance fees for attractions.

What will you see and do?

Embarking on a day tour to Ghent from Brussels allows you to witness the city's historical and artistic treasures, immerse yourself in its enchanting atmosphere, and delight in its culinary offerings, creating lasting memories of this charming Belgian gem. While every trip is slightly different, mo of the following attractions are visited.

St. Bavo's Cathedral and the Ghent Altarpiece

The St. Bavo's Cathedral is home to the renowned Ghent Altarpiece by the Van Eyck brothers, which is considered to be one of the most important artworks in Western art history.

Gravensteen Castle

You'll have time to discover the medieval charm of Gravensteen Castle, a grand fortress nestled in the heart of Ghent. Here, you can walk its ancient halls, climb to the tower's top for panoramic views and learn all about the castle's history and its tales of knights and nobles.

Graslei and Korenlei

The picturesque canals of Graslei and Korenlei are lined with beautifully preserved medieval guildhouses. A great place for a stroll, you can absorb the enchanting ambiance, relax at a water-side café, or make a wish at the old stone bridge.

Ghent's Historic Center

Every tour will take you through Ghent's historic center, a UNESCO-designed World Heritage zone. You can wander through narrow, cobblestone streets, past charming squares and discover hidden treasures like the Cloth Hall and the Belfry around every corner.

Sample Ghent's famous foods

History aside, Ghent also has a renowned culinary scene. You can sample mouthwatering Belgian chocolates, taste delicious waffles and try local specialties like waterzooi (a creamy chicken or fish stew) or Gentse Strop (a local beer). If you're not sure where to start, simply ask your guide on the day for recommendations.

Nearby cities

Depending  on the length of your day tour, you may also have time to explore nearby Belgian cities such as Bruges, Antwerp or Ypres. Each of these cities has their own unique character and history, so you can walk away with a broader understanding of this fascinating region.

When is the best time to visit Ghent?

The best time to visit Ghent is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the city is less crowded. These periods are also known for their blooming, colorful flowers.

As for the time of day, it's recommended to visit the city in the morning, so you have more time to explore.

Travel tips

• Ghent is crowded on weekends, so a weekday visit is usually a more relaxing and enjoyable experience.
• Ghent city center is best explored on foot. Therefore, wearing comfortable shoes will help you navigate the cobbled streets more easily.
• The main attractions are worth visiting, but take time off the beaten path and explore Ghent's charming neighborhoods, local markets and hidden gems for a more authentic experience.