From Brussels: Day Trip to Ghent with Atomium in English

Traveling from Brussels to Ghent for a day offers a wonderful blend of history, architecture, and authentic Belgian charm. This guided tour, led by friendly and knowledgeable guides, is designed to give you a comprehensive taste of what makes this city so special. With a mix of guided sightseeing, free time, and a quick visit to the Atomium, it aims to balance structure with flexibility.

What we love about this experience? First, the expert-guided tour in English ensures you won’t miss the city’s gems. Second, the four hours of free time gives you plenty of space to wander and enjoy an unhurried lunch or explore hidden corners. Third, the scenic views from the Graslei quay and the well-preserved medieval sites make it a feast for the eyes. The only potential drawback? The bus journey takes about 1.5 hours each way, which might be long for some travelers. This tour suits history buffs, architecture lovers, and those wanting a hassle-free way to see Ghent in a day.

Good To Know

• Convenient Full-Day Excursion: Includes bus transfers, guided tour, and free time.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Paula, Julian, and Eve are praised for their knowledge and friendly manner.
• Highlights: Discover Ghent’s medieval sites, including Gravensteen castle, St. Bavo’s Cathedral, and Belfry.
• Flexibility: Four hours of free time for lunch, shopping, or independent exploration.
• Atomium Stop: A quick photo opportunity at the iconic Brussels monument en route.
• Value for Money: Offers a comprehensive experience at a reasonable price, considering guided touring and transport.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Starting Point and First Impressions

The tour begins at Carrefour de l’Europe, a central and easily accessible spot in Brussels. From there, you board a comfortable coach, and the ride to Ghent lasts approximately 1.5 hours. The journey itself offers a chance to settle in and get excited, especially as you pass through scenic Belgian landscapes.

On the way, a quick stop at the Atomium provides a great photo opportunity. Standing over 100 meters tall, with its stainless steel spheres representing Belgium’s nine provinces, the Atomium is a familiar sight. Reviewers like Gill, who appreciated the day despite rain, mentioned the guide’s professionalism, ensuring everyone enjoyed this brief stop.

Exploring Ghent with a Local Guide

Once in Ghent, the guided portion spans about 2 hours. Guides like Diego, Paula, and Julian are often praised for their deep knowledge and engaging storytelling. They bring to life Ghent’s history, architecture, and legends, making every site feel more meaningful.

You’ll visit the 13th-century Castle of Gerald the Devil, which offers insights into medieval fortifications and the city’s turbulent past. Standing within its ancient walls, you can imagine knights and medieval courts, all while appreciating the castle’s impressive preservation.

Next, the St. Bavo’s Cathedral is a highlight. Reviewers rave about the chance to see “The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb” by the Van Eyck brothers—an artwork considered a masterpiece. As you walk through, guides often share anecdotes about the painting’s significance and the cathedral’s architectural features.

The Belfry of Ghent is another must-see, with its commanding views over the city. Guides explain that Ghent’s residents are nicknamed “noose-bearers” due to historical executions at the Belfry, adding a touch of local color to the visit.

Other notable stops include the Town Hall, St. Nicholas Church, and the Masons Guild Hall—each showcasing Ghent’s trading and civic history. The quayside of Graslei is a favorite for its picturesque medieval buildings lining the canal, perfect for photos or a quick coffee break.

Embarking on the Medieval Journey: Gravensteen Castle and Patershol

The Gravensteen castle is often described as one of the most impressive medieval castles in Belgium. Its towers, moat, and interior rooms help visitors imagine life in the Middle Ages. Several reviews mention that exploring here feels like stepping back in time, with some guides sharing amusing stories about the castle’s dark past.

Afterward, wandering the narrow streets of the Patershol neighborhood reveals cozy cafes and historic houses. It’s a quieter part of Ghent that offers a glimpse into local life away from the tourist hubs.

Market and Food Scene

For those who love street markets, Ghent’s Great Butchers Hall, Old Fish Market, and Friday Market provide insight into the city’s trading history. Reviewers note that these spots are ideal for absorbing local flavors and perhaps picking up some souvenirs.

During the four hours of free time, most travelers opt for lunch along the river at one of the many cafes or bistros. Some mention doing a boat tour for just $10, which adds a relaxing perspective on Ghent’s waterways.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Returning to Brussels

The journey back lasts about 1.5 hours, giving plenty of time to reflect on Ghent’s charm or nap before returning to the starting point. The tour concludes back at Carrefour de l’Europe, just as it started, making logistics straightforward.

This tour offers a solid balance of guided sightseeing and free exploration, making it an excellent choice for first-time visitors wanting a rundown of Ghent without the hassle of planning transport or entry tickets. The inclusion of the Atomium stop adds a fun sightseeing element, especially for those arriving from Brussels for the day.

While the price point is reasonable, it’s important to recognize that the long bus rides might not suit everyone. If you prefer shorter travel times or more relaxed pacing, consider local options or extending your stay in Ghent.

The guides have consistently received praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling ability. Their insights transform what might be a standard city tour into an engaging experience. The 4 hours of free time is another highlight, giving you genuine freedom to choose how to spend your afternoon—whether exploring further, relaxing at a cafe, or taking photos.

This tour best suits history enthusiasts and architecture lovers who want a well-rounded introduction to Ghent’s medieval past. It’s also ideal for first-time visitors who prefer a guided experience with minimal stress. The inclusion of the Atomium makes it appealing for those arriving from Brussels, offering a quick cultural stop en route.

Travelers who appreciate value for money and enjoy organized group tours will find this experience satisfying. However, those who prioritize free exploration with no guided component or have mobility impairments may find the structured nature limiting.

Ultimately, if you’re eager to discover Ghent’s highlights without the hassle of logistics and enjoy insightful guides, this full-day trip ticks many boxes.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children under 2 years old must travel in a car seat on the bus. It’s best to check if your children are comfortable with the long transfers and walking involved.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as you’ll walk quite a bit through the city’s historic sites.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch and drinks are not included. The four hours of free time allow for lunch at your own pace, often by the river or in local cafes.

Are guides available in other languages?
This tour is offered in English. There are Spanish guides as well, and some reviews mention joining Spanish groups. If bilingual guides are available, they may be an option.

How long is the guided tour in Ghent?
The guided portion lasts about 2 hours, giving you a solid overview of Ghent’s top sites.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility impairments?
No, it’s not recommended for individuals with mobility issues, as the tour involves walking and historic site visits.

What is the highlight of the tour?
Many say it’s the visit to St. Bavo’s Cathedral and the chance to see “The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb” or the medieval Gravensteen castle.

Can I do the boat tour?
Yes, some reviewers recommend the $10 boat tour during free time for a relaxing way to see Ghent from its waterways.

What’s the benefit of the Atomium stop?
It’s a quick photo opportunity at Belgium’s iconic monument, a fun addition to the trip that breaks up the journey.

Is this tour flexible?
The tour provides a structured schedule, but you do have four hours to explore independently, offering some flexibility.

This Day Trip from Brussels to Ghent offers a detailed, well-organized way to experience one of Belgium’s most picturesque cities. The guided tour ensures you see the essential sights while the free time lets you soak in the atmosphere at your own pace. The inclusion of the Atomium stop adds a fun and quick cultural touchpoint, especially for travelers arriving from Brussels.

For history buffs and architecture enthusiasts, Ghent’s well-preserved medieval core will feel like a treasure chest of stories and sights. The guides’ lively commentary and the opportunity to explore independently make this an engaging and satisfying day out.

While the bus journey might be lengthy for some, the overall value—considering transportation, expert guides, and a full day of sightseeing—is excellent. It’s particularly suited for those who want a structured yet flexible exploration, with enough free time to relax or discover hidden gems.

If you’re after a comprehensive, hassle-free way to see Ghent and enjoy some of its best spots, this tour checks most boxes. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring your camera—Ghent’s stunning architecture and lively markets await.

You can check if your dates are available here: