From Brussels: Day Trip to Ghent with Atomium in English

Taking a day trip from Brussels to Ghent is a fantastic way to experience one of Belgium’s most beautifully preserved medieval cities. This guided tour, offered by BUENDIA TOURS, promises a full day of exploring historic landmarks, soaking in local atmosphere, and enjoying a bit of independent wandering—all for just $49 per person. Whether you’re a history buff, architecture lover, or simply after a taste of authentic Flemish life, this tour could be just what you need.

What sets this experience apart? First, we love the thoughtfully planned itinerary that balances guided sightseeing with ample free time. Second, the inclusion of a stop at the iconic Atomium gives this trip a unique twist—plus, it’s a visual treat. Third, the tour’s small-group vibe, led by knowledgeable guides, makes for a more personal and relaxed experience. The only potential drawback? The tour duration means you’ll want to keep an eye on the clock during your free time to make the most of it. But overall, this tour is perfectly suited for those who want a comprehensive, yet manageable, day of exploring.

If you’re someone who appreciates well-organized trips with expert guides, and you’re eager to see Ghent’s highlights while having time to explore at your own pace, this tour is likely to fit your needs beautifully. It’s especially appealing for first-timers to Belgium or travelers on a tight schedule who want a dependable, informative day out.

Good To Know

• Balanced Itinerary: Combines guided tours with four hours of free time for personal exploration or a relaxed lunch.
• Iconic Visits: Includes a stop at Brussels’ Atomium and major Ghent sights like Gravensteen Castle and St. Bavo’s Cathedral.
• Expert Guides: Guides are praised for their knowledge, humor, and ability to enhance the experience.
• Good Value: At $49, it offers a comprehensive day of sightseeing, transportation, and expert commentary.
• Moderate Pace: The schedule is well-paced, allowing sufficient time at highlights without feeling rushed.
• Accessibility Consideration: Not suitable for travelers with mobility impairments, so plan accordingly.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Full Breakdown: What to Expect from the Ghent Day Trip

Starting Point and Transportation

The journey begins at Brussels Central Station, where you meet your guide in front of the Hilton Grand Place Hotel. From there, a comfortable bus whisks you out of the city toward Ghent, with a quick stop at the Atomium en route. This iconic Brussels monument, towering over 100 meters, offers a brief but impressive photo opportunity—its spheres symbolize Belgium’s nine provinces, which makes for a fun, visual introduction to the country.

The bus ride itself lasts about an hour and a half. Many reviews mention the quality of the transportation—comfortable seats, air conditioning, and a smooth ride. You might find, just like some travelers noted, that the bus doesn’t have a toilet on board, so plan accordingly.

Atomium Visit

The first stop, at the Atomium, provides a striking start to your day. Though brief, it’s a chance to stretch your legs and snap some photos of this unusual structure. It’s especially great if you’re a fan of landmarks that are both quirky and symbolic. For many, it’s a photo-worthy preview of Belgium’s modern side before diving into the medieval charm of Ghent.

Guided Tour of Ghent

Once in Ghent, your guide—thought to be quite knowledgeable and engaging—takes you through the city’s main sights over about two hours. Highlights include:

• Castle of Gerald the Devil: A 13th-century fortress that tells stories of medieval times.
• St. Bavo’s Cathedral: Home to the famous “Adoration of the Mystic Lamb” by the Van Eyck brothers, a masterpiece of Flemish art. Visitors often find this church awe-inspiring, with some reviews mentioning how the guide’s explanations added depth to the experience.
• Belfry of Ghent: Known for its “noose-bearers,” locals traditionally used the nooses for executions—an intriguing, if slightly dark, part of Ghent’s history.
• Town Hall and St. Nicholas Church: Architecturally impressive buildings that showcase Ghent’s trading past and religious heritage.
• Graslei Quay: Picturesque waterfront buildings that epitomize Ghent’s medieval trading dominance.
• Medieval Gravensteen Castle: A highlight for many, this well-preserved fortress lets you wander through history, with some reviewers noting it’s a “beautiful city” with “lots of amazing architecture.”

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Free Time

After the guided tour, you’re given about four hours of free time—a real highlight for many travelers. This allows you to:

• Enjoy a leisurely lunch, sampling local specialties like Flemish stew or waffles.
• Wander the medieval streets at your own pace, revisiting favorite spots or discovering hidden corners.
• Visit additional sites such as the Patershol neighborhood, known for its charming alleys and cafes.
• Possibly take a short boat cruise along the canal, which some reviewers recommend for a different perspective of the city.

This flexible window helps travelers tailor their experience—whether they want to relax or explore further.

Return Journey

Your day concludes with a bus ride back to Brussels, again around 1.5 hours. Travelers praise the well-organized timing and the effort the guides make to keep everyone on schedule. The trip ends back at Carrefour de l’Europe, close to your starting point.

Specific Insights from Travelers

Many reviews emphasize the quality of the guides, praising their mix of humor, knowledge, and storytelling. For example, one reviewer said, “Hugo was outstanding with his wealth of information and his great recommendations,” which suggests you’ll come away with more than just sightseeing tips.

The value for money also garners frequent praise, with the overall price of $49 being seen as a fair deal considering the guided tour, transportation, and entry to major sites. Travelers also enjoy the relaxed pace, especially those who prefer not to rush through attractions.

Some comments highlight the tour’s organization, noting that it’s “very well organized and timely,” which makes for a stress-free day. Others mention the small group size—often praised for creating a more personal experience.

Considerations and Tips

• Be prepared for a full day; comfortable shoes are essential as you’ll be walking quite a bit.
• Keep an eye on the schedule during free time if you want to maximize your exploration.
• The tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility issues, so plan for that accordingly.
• As some travelers pointed out, the bus may not have a toilet, so plan for bathroom breaks on your own.
• If you’re traveling with young children, note that children under 2 need a car seat—plan ahead.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This day trip works best for travelers who want a rundown of Ghent’s highlights without the hassle of planning logistics themselves. It’s particularly appealing if you enjoy guided storytelling and want to learn about the city from knowledgeable hosts. The free time allows you to revel in Ghent’s beauty at your own pace, making it ideal for those who prefer a mix of guided insight and independent wandering.

It’s also a great option for visitors who are short on time but still eager to see a city that offers both medieval charm and lively local culture. If you’re after a value-packed experience with a well-organized itinerary, this trip ticks all those boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts about 9 hours, including transportation, guided tour, free time, and return.

Where do I meet the tour?
You gather in front of the Hilton Grand Place Hotel at Brussels Central Station, where the guide will be wearing ID of BUENDIA TOURS.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch and drinks are not included, giving you the freedom to choose where and what to eat during your free time.

Does the tour include entrance fees?
While the description highlights the main sights, specific entry to places like Gravensteen Castle is included in the guided experience—others like churches are usually viewed from the outside or with optional entry.

Are children allowed?
Children under 2 need a car seat on the bus, but the tour itself isn’t specifically designed for young children. Check with the provider if you have very young kids.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your schedule shifts.

Final Thoughts

This guided day trip to Ghent from Brussels offers a balanced mix of structured sightseeing and free exploration, all at a reasonable price. The inclusion of the Atomium stop adds a unique touch, blending modern Belgium with its medieval roots. The guides, praised for their knowledge and humor, make the experience engaging and educational without feeling overly formal.

The manageable pace and ample free time make this tour suitable for those who want a relaxed yet rundown of Ghent’s most iconic spots. It’s particularly attractive for first-time visitors who want a hassle-free way to see the city’s highlights without sacrificing personal exploration.

In short, if you’re after a well-organized, value-for-money tour that combines history, architecture, and authentic local charm, this trip should definitely be on your list. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes, keep track of your schedule, and enjoy the journey through one of Belgium’s most captivating cities.

You can check if your dates are available here: