Private Tour Best Of Ghent and Bruges From Brussels for Big Group

Imagine spending a day wandering through two of Belgium’s most captivating cities, with a private guide tailoring the experience just for your group. That’s exactly what the Private Tour Best Of Ghent and Bruges From Brussels offers. Whether you’re a history buff, architecture lover, or just eager for stunning scenery, this tour combines all the essentials into a seamless, personalized day out.

What we love about this experience is its flexibility, expert guidance, and the opportunity to explore at your own pace. The comfortable transportation paired with insider knowledge makes it feel like exploring with a friend rather than a typical tour group. Plus, the scenic boat trips and visits to UNESCO sites add special touches that elevate the experience. One thing to consider: it’s a fairly full day, so you’ll want to be prepared for some walking and a packed itinerary. This tour suits travelers who want in-depth sightseeing with minimal hassle, especially if they arrive in Brussels and want to maximize their time.

Good To Know

• Private tour for personalized experience and flexibility
• Visits to UNESCO World Heritage sites like Bruges
• Includes scenic boat trips and visits to iconic landmarks
• A knowledgeable guide enhances the storytelling
• Perfect for big groups seeking convenience and tailored attention
• Duration of 7 to 9 hours offers a full, immersive day

Why Choose This Tour?

This private experience ensures you aren’t just a number in a large group. It’s ideal if you want a more intimate, flexible way to see Bruges and Ghent, both of which are treasure troves of medieval architecture, charming canals, and history. The all-inclusive transportation and hotel pickup and drop-off remove the stress of logistics, making it easier to focus on enjoying the sights.

The tour’s price point of around $538 per person reflects the exclusivity and comfort of a private guide, tailored itinerary, and the convenience of door-to-door service. For travelers who value quality over quantity, this offers a good balance of accessibility and immersive experiences, especially considering the full day of sightseeing packed into a single outing.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting Point: Brussels to Bruges

The adventure begins with a hotel pickup in Brussels, where your private driver and guide meet you. Traveling in an air-conditioned mini-coach, you’ll enjoy a smooth transfer through the Belgian countryside. The journey to Bruges takes approximately 2 hours, giving you time to settle in and maybe catch a quick overview of what’s to come.

Stop 1: Mariastraat and the Small Bridge

Your first scenic stop is at Mariastraat, a picturesque spot renowned for its charming small bridge. Here, you’ll get some of the best photo opportunities, capturing the romantic essence of Bruges’ cobbled streets and architecture. It’s a quick, 10-minute stop, but enough to savor the quiet beauty.

Stop 2: Minnewater Lake

Next, you’ll visit Minnewater, known as the “Lake of Love”. This tranquil waterway, surrounded by greenery and historic buildings, offers a serene backdrop for photos. The name’s roots—Dutch for “love”—make it a favorite spot for couples and romantics. Expect about 30 minutes here to soak in the views and perhaps take a leisurely walk along the water’s edge.

Stop 3: Basilica of the Holy Blood

A highlight is the Basilica of the Holy Blood in Burg square. This church houses a venerated relic—the blood of Christ—stored in a beautiful Gothic setting. The basilica features a lower Romanesque chapel and an upper chapel with stunning stained glass and sculptures. The guided commentary often includes insights into its significance and architecture, making it more than just a pretty building.

Stop 4: Princely Beguinage Ten Wijngaarde

This tranquil complex from the Middle Ages is a must-see. The Beguinage’s peaceful courtyards and historic buildings reveal a unique facet of Bruges’ religious and social history. It’s a perfect spot to slow down and appreciate the city’s quieter, contemplative side, with about 40 minutes allocated for exploring and photos.

Stop 5: St Michael’s Church and Canals

The tour takes you through St Michael’s Church and the surrounding canals. The architecture here reflects Bruges’ medieval prosperity, with its impressive tower and beautiful facades. The guided commentary will often include stories about the town’s maritime past and the importance of its guilds.

Stop 6: Graslei and Korenlei

The harbor area of Graslei and Korenlei is where Bruges’ trading history comes alive. Sailors and merchants once thrived here, and the picturesque guild houses and warehouses still tell stories of commerce and craftsmanship. It’s an ideal spot for photos, and you might learn some trade secrets from your guide, making it both scenic and educational.

Stop 7: Gravensteen Castle

This medieval fortress, the Castle of the Counts of Flanders, is a highlight for history and architecture enthusiasts. Its towers, battlements, and museum displays offer a glimpse into Bruges’ feudal past. The 30-minute visit provides enough time to walk through its rooms and imagine medieval life.

Stop 8: Ghent’s Cathedral and Art Treasures

Your journey continues to Ghent, a city of canals, historic buildings, and vibrant street life. The St Bavo’s Abbey houses an important collection of art, including works by Rubens, and the cathedral’s medieval altarpiece is a visual marvel. The visit here includes about 30 minutes for exploration and appreciation.

Stop 9: Burg Square and Ghent’s Canals

Back in Ghent, Burg Square offers a mix of architectural styles—Romanesque, Gothic, Baroque—showcasing the city’s layered history. You’ll also enjoy wandering along the canals, with optional boat trips available for a different perspective on the city’s historic waterways.

Return to Brussels

After a full day of sightseeing, your private driver will transfer you back to your hotel or preferred location in Brussels, typically taking around 1 hour and 40 minutes. The comfort of your private vehicle means no rush, and you can reflect on the day’s highlights or ask your guide additional questions.

Transport and Comfort

The use of an air-conditioned mini-coach is a thoughtful touch, especially in warmer months. It ensures comfort during the roughly 4-hour round trip, with Wi-Fi onboard to share your photos or check messages. The tour’s private setup guarantees you won’t be mingling with strangers, making it ideal for big groups or families wanting a personalized experience.

Flexibility and Customization

While the itinerary covers key sights, the guide’s knowledge means they can tailor the experience slightly to your interests—whether that’s focusing more on architecture, art, or local stories. The scenic boat trips are optional but highly recommended for a different view of the cities’ waterways, adding a layer of charm and relaxation.

Authenticity and Insider Insights

According to reviews, guides are not just knowledgeable—they bring stories to life. One reviewer mentioned their guide was “amazing and very insightful,” which hints at the personalized storytelling that can make this tour special. The stops at beautiful viewpoints, historical landmarks, and peaceful corners allow for genuine connection with the cities’ character.

The notable praise for scenic views and knowledgeable guides suggests that this experience is well-curated to maximize both visual beauty and storytelling depth. The fact that it is a private tour means you’ll get the attention you deserve, and your guide can share little-known facts and local tips, making your day both informative and fun.

Pricing and Value

At roughly $538 per person, this tour is an investment, but it offers a curated, hassle-free way to see two major Belgian cities without organizing logistics yourself. The private nature and hotel pickup add significant convenience, especially if you’re traveling with a larger group or family. While the cost might seem high for some, the comfort, exclusivity, and depth of experience often justify the price for those seeking a more premium, personalized day trip.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who value comfort, personalization, and insider knowledge. It’s perfect for big groups wanting a hassle-free way to explore Bruges and Ghent in one day without sacrificing quality. History and architecture lovers will appreciate the detailed visits, and those who enjoy scenic boat trips will find this adds a delightful touch. It’s ideal for visitors arriving in Brussels who want to see iconic Belgian towns with minimal stress and maximum enjoyment.

The Sum Up

This private tour offers an elegant way to explore two of Belgium’s most enchanting cities, combining sightseeing, history, and scenic moments with the comfort of private transportation. The attention to detail, knowledgeable guides, and flexible itinerary make it a compelling choice for those who want more than just a surface glimpse.

If you’re after a personalized experience that balances cultural insight with scenic beauty, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suitable for big groups or families seeking convenience and tailored attention, all while soaking up the charm of Bruges and Ghent. With a full day of discovery and the comforts of private transport, it’s a memorable way to experience Belgium’s historic heart.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 7 to 9 hours, covering both cities and transportation time, making it a full-day experience.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a smooth start and end to your day.

What transportation is used?
Travel is by air-conditioned mini-coach, providing comfort and Wi-Fi for your convenience.

Are boat trips included?
Boat trips are optional and can be enjoyed during the tour, offering a scenic view of the cities’ waterways.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult, and the itinerary may involve some walking.

Can the guide customize the itinerary?
While the core stops are fixed, guides can often tailor the experience slightly to your interests, given the private nature of the tour.

In the end, this private guided day trip from Brussels to Bruges and Ghent combines expert storytelling, scenic beauty, and convenience—perfect for those wanting a memorable Belgian adventure without the hassle of planning every detail.