Bruges & Ghent: Day Trip from Amsterdam via Brussels
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Overview
The Bruges and Ghent Trips from Amsterdam via Brussels offers a full-day adventure exploring two of Belgium's most beautiful cities. This tour is perfect for travelers who want to experience the rich history, stunning architecture, and unique culture of Bruges and Ghent in a single day. It provides a convenient and immersive experience, showcasing the best of Flemish heritage.
What to Expect: Begin in Bruges, a UNESCO World Heritage city known for its picturesque canals and colorful houses. Visitors can stroll along the St. Jankaai and explore the Beguinage of Bruges, a peaceful historical site. See iconic landmarks like Markt Square, Burg Square, and the Church of Our Lady, home to Michelangelo’s Madonna. Take a tour of De Halve Maan Brewery to taste local beer, or visit St. John's Hospital, one of Europe's oldest hospitals. In Ghent, discover a medieval city with vibrant student life. Key attractions include St. Bavo's Cathedral, home to the Ghent Altarpiece, and Gravensteen Castle, a well-preserved medieval fortress. Explore the Graslei and Korenlei, historic quays with beautiful guildhalls, and visit St. Nicholas' Church and St. Michael's Church. Don't miss the Belfry of Ghent and Ghent Town Hall.
This tour includes train tickets from Brussels or Antwerp to Ghent and Bruges for up to 4 people, plus entrance tickets to the Halve Man brewery in Bruges and COFFEE_AND_TEA. It excludes LUNCH, SNACKS, and souvenirs. Discover gems like the The Devil's Pants Building, St. Salvator's Cathedral, Rozenhoedkaai, St. James' Church, Gildenhuis van de Metselaars (Masons' Guildhall), and Ghent Market Hall, Cloth Hall. The tour combines historical insights with local experiences, making it a memorable day trip.




Highlights
Explore Two Cities in One Day: See the best of Bruges and Ghent on a single, convenient day trip.
Discover Historical Landmarks: Visit iconic sites like the Church of Our Lady and Gravensteen Castle.
Enjoy Local Flavors: Taste local beer at the Halve Man Brewery in Bruges.
Hassle-Free Transportation: Includes train tickets from Brussels or Antwerp to Ghent and Bruges for up to 4 persons.
Sentiment Analysis
Most customers had a great time exploring Bruges and Ghent, appreciating the sights, the guide, and the overall experience. A few felt it was a bit fast-paced and wished lunch was included.

Customers loved seeing two beautiful cities in one day.
The guide was knowledgeable and made the trip fun.
Many enjoyed the beer tasting at the brewery.
Travelers appreciated the convenience of the train tickets.
Some found the tour a bit rushed.
Lunch was not included, which some found inconvenient.
The Journey
Beguinage of Bruges
Step back in time at the Beguinage of Bruges, a serene and historic convent founded in the mid-13th century. This tranquil oasis once housed religious women who had renounced their vows, creating a unique community within the city. Wander through the peaceful courtyards, admire the whitewashed houses, and experience the profound sense of history and spirituality that permeates this UNESCO World Heritage site.
St. Jankaai
Immerse yourself in the picturesque charm of St. Jankaai, one of Bruges' most beloved tourist destinations. Stroll along the cobblestone streets, lined with typical Flemish buildings and charming riverside courtyards. Discover quaint cafes, art galleries, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. St. Jankaai is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the beauty of Bruges.
St. John's Hospital
Discover one of Europe's oldest surviving hospital buildings, St. John's Hospital, dating back to the 12th century. Originally an asylum for pilgrims, the sick, and travelers, this historical landmark now houses a museum showcasing its fascinating past. Explore the medieval wards, apothecary, and chapel, and delve into the captivating stories of those who sought refuge within its walls.
De Halve Maan Brewery
Experience the authentic flavors of Bruges at the De Halve Maan Brewery, a family-run establishment since 1856. Witness the brewing process firsthand and savor the unique taste of their traditional Belgian beers, crafted using time-honored techniques. Though brewing has occurred on this site for 500 years, this family boasts 6 generations of Maes. This brewery offers a genuine taste of Bruges' brewing heritage.
St. Salvator's Cathedral
Visit St. Salvator's Cathedral, Bruges' official cathedral and main church, which has been the seat of the Bruges Diocese since the 10th century. Admire the impressive Gothic architecture, explore the chapels adorned with historical artifacts, and discover the rich religious heritage that defines this iconic landmark.
Church of Our Lady
Marvel at the architectural masterpiece of the Church of Our Lady, a testament to medieval stonemasonry in Bruges. Inside, you'll find Michelangelo's renowned sculpture, "Madonna With Child," and the ceremonial tombs of Charles the Bold and Mary of Burgundy. Immerse yourself in the grandeur of this historical church and witness the artistic treasures it holds.
Markt Square
Experience the vibrant heart of Bruges at Markt Square, the city's central and largest square. Admire the iconic Belfry of Bruges, a towering symbol of the city's history, and discover other landmarks, including the Jan Breydel and Pieter de Coninck Monument, the Provincial Court, and the Guild Houses. Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of this historic square.
The Devil's Pants Building
Uncover the darker side of Bruges at The Devil's Pants Building. This intriguing spot is shrouded in legend, with tales of encounters between local citizens and Lucifer himself. Explore the mysterious alleyways surrounding the building and delve into the folklore that adds an enigmatic charm to this unique location.
Burg Square
Discover the soul of Bruges at Burg Square, a grand and majestic space lined with monumental landmark buildings. Visit the Basilica of the Holy Blood, Provostry of Saint Donatian, The Liberty of Bruges, Old Civil Registry Building, and Old City Hall. Experience the historical significance of this central location, once surrounded by city walls, and immerse yourself in Bruges' rich heritage.
Rozenhoedkaai
Capture the most picturesque view in Bruges at Rozenhoedkaai, the city's most photographed spot and a centuries-old "Instagrammable hotspot." Admire the stunning panorama where the canals meet, framed by historic buildings and charming bridges. This iconic location offers a glimpse into the timeless beauty of Bruges.
St. James' Church
Explore St. James' Church in Ghent, one of the city's five most famous churches and the oldest, dating back to 1093. Dedicated to St. Jacob, the patron saint of sailors, this historic church showcases a blend of architectural styles and offers a glimpse into Ghent's rich maritime history. Admire the intricate details of the facade and discover the treasures within.
St. Bavo's Cathedral
Behold the splendor of St. Bavo's Cathedral, showcasing the transition between Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles. This magnificent cathedral is world-famous for housing the "Ghent Altarpiece," a masterpiece of Early Netherlandish art. A must-see for art lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
St. Nicholas' Church
Admire the unique architecture of St. Nicholas' Church, a sacral building from 1270 that stands out from its surroundings. With its distinctive design and architectural features, it is one of the "three towers" of Ghent, differing from the Cathedral of St. Bavo and the Church of St. Michael and St. James.
Belfry of Ghent
Ascend the Belfry of Ghent, a 91-meter-high tower offering panoramic views of the city. A symbol of Ghent's independence dating back to the 14th century, the Belfry stands as a testament to the city's rich history and resilience. Experience the breathtaking vistas and immerse yourself in the spirit of Ghent.
Ghent Town Hall
Explore the "confused building" on the corner of Botermarkt and Hoogpoort: the Ghent Town Hall. This unique structure showcases two architectural styles, Renaissance and Gothic, reflecting the different periods of its construction. As the town hall still in use, it is a symbol of Ghent's evolving history.
Gildenhuis van de Metselaars (Masons' Guildhall)
Admire the Renaissance and later Gothic-style building from 1526, the Gildenhuis van de Metselaars, the seat of the mason's guild. Marvel at its unique stepped gable and weathervane featuring six figures dancing merrily, a charming detail that reflects the spirit of craftsmanship and community.
Ghent Market Hall
Visit the new and modern Ghent Market Hall, a building with unusual and interesting architecture. This vibrant hub offers a variety of local produce, delicacies, and culinary experiences, making it a must-visit for food lovers and those seeking a taste of Ghent's contemporary culture.
Cloth Hall
Step into the Cloth Hall, once a vital meeting place for wool and cloth traders and a central point for city events throughout the centuries. This historical building stands as a reminder of Ghent's rich trading past and its significance as a commercial center.
St. Michael's Church
Discover St. Michael's Church, a building project spanning more than 400 years with a surprisingly low tower of 46 meters (of initially planned 134 meters!). It houses Anthony Van Dyck's masterpiece "Golgotha" and is also near the popular photo spot, the 'young bridge' from 1903.
Graslei and Korenlei
Explore the Graslei and Korenlei, two of Ghent's oldest streets located on opposite sides of the river Leie. Admire the diverse architectural styles, showcasing Romanesque, Flemish Renaissance, Brabant Gothic, and Baroque influences. Dating back to the 11th century, these unique edifices reflect Ghent's rich history and architectural evolution.
Gravensteen Castle
Visit the Gravensteen Castle, the Castle of the Flemish Counts on the river Leie from the 12th century. This medieval fortress remains one of the most well-preserved examples of medieval fortification in Western Europe. Explore the castle's towers, walls, and courtyards, and immerse yourself in the history of the Flemish Counts.
Know Before You Go
This tour includes train tickets from Brussels or Antwerp to Ghent and Bruges for up to 4 persons, as well as entrance tickets to the Halve Man brewery in Bruges and COFFEE_AND_TEA. Lunch, snacks, and souvenirs are not included. Please arrange your own lunch and any additional refreshments or keepsakes you may want. Meetup and pickup details should be confirmed upon booking.
Hot Tip
To make the most of your trip, wear comfortable shoes as there's a lot of walking involved. Bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day. Also, consider bringing some extra money for snacks and souvenirs as lunch is not included.