From Brussels: Full-Day Antwerp and Ghent Guided Tour

Imagine packing a full day with two of Belgium’s most stunning cities—Antwerp and Ghent—in one go. That’s exactly what this guided tour offers: a chance to see historic sights, picturesque streets, and authentic Belgian charm without the hassle of planning multiple trips. It’s a popular choice for travelers who want to maximize their time and get a well-rounded taste of Flanders.

What we particularly like about this tour is the combination of expert guide commentary—which brings the cities’ stories to life—and the balance of guided sightseeing with free time to explore on your own. For just $53 per person, you get a comprehensive day that’s both educational and leisurely. That said, keep in mind it’s a long 10-hour day, and for those less comfortable with extensive walking or tight schedules, it’s worth considering. This tour is best suited for curious travelers eager to see highlights without the stress of navigating on their own.

Key Points

• All-in-one day trip covering Antwerp and Ghent with round-trip transfers from Brussels.
• Professional guides provide insightful commentary, making history and architecture come alive.
• Balanced schedule with guided tours plus free time to explore, shop, or grab a snack.
• Includes key sights like Antwerp’s Cathedral of San Bavón and Ghent’s Belfort Tower.
• Affordable value for a full day of sightseeing, especially considering transport and guiding costs.
• Not suitable for mobility-impaired travelers due to walking and possibly uneven surfaces.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Morning Pickup and First Stops

The day kicks off early at 8:30AM from Carrefour de l’Europe in central Brussels. From there, a comfortable coach whisks you away, and the journey includes a quick stop at the Atomium—the iconic symbol of Brussels. While not part of the cities themselves, this photo opportunity is a fun way to start the day and gives you a chance to snap a picture of one of Belgium’s most recognizable landmarks.

The ride to Antwerp takes about 30 minutes, giving you a good preview of the Belgian countryside and some time to settle in before diving into the city’s highlights.

Exploring Antwerp: A Mix of Medieval and Modern

Once in Antwerp, the guided portion lasts about 1.5 hours. The guide’s energetic commentary and local tips make the city’s complex history and vibrant present feel accessible. You’ll see the Meat Market, once the heart of the city’s trading scene, and Steen Castle, a well-preserved fortress from the 13th century that hints at Antwerp’s medieval roots.

The Town Hall Square and the Gothic-style Church of Our Lady are notable landmarks—impressive architectural feats that you’ll view up close. The guide often points out interesting details like the intricate facades of the buildings along Meir Street, Antwerp’s main shopping and strolling boulevard. Many reviews praise guides like Sabrina and Julian for making these stories engaging and memorable.

Following the guided tour, you have about 1.5 hours of free time. This is your chance to wander at your own pace—perhaps to browse some chocolate shops, grab a Belgian waffle, or simply soak in the lively street scenes. As one reviewer notes, the ample free time is appreciated because it allows you to enjoy Antwerp’s charm without feeling rushed.

Transition to Ghent: A Scenic Journey

After lunch or a quick snack during your free time, you reboard the coach for about an hour to reach Ghent. This city’s reputation for its mix of Gothic and Renaissance architecture makes it a favorite among visitors.

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Discovering Ghent’s Highlights

The Ghent segment begins with a guided walk of about 1.5 hours. The Cathedral of San Bavón is a standout—home to Jan van Eyck’s masterpiece, “The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb.” Viewing this world-famous painting is a highlight that many travelers mention with enthusiasm. The guide often shares fascinating stories about the painters and the significance of the artwork.

Other sights include the Belfort Tower, which you might get to admire from the outside or even climb if time permits, and the Gothic and Renaissance Town Hall, with its striking architecture. The Church of San Nicolás and the Guild House of the Masons add layers of history and local craftsmanship.

As with Antwerp, Ghent offers about 1.5 hours of free time afterward. Reviewers mention that the balance of guided insight and personal exploration makes the trip satisfying. Some enjoy wandering along the Wharf of the Herbs and Grain, soaking in the lively atmosphere of this historic port area.

End of Day and Return to Brussels

The coach departs Ghent around 4:30PM, heading back to Brussels for a roughly 1.5-hour ride. The entire day wraps up back at the starting point by evening, making it a convenient, all-in-one experience.

Real Travelers’ Perspectives

Many reviewers praise the knowledge and friendliness of the guides, often noting that guides like Sabrina, Juliana, and Sergio make the trip both informative and enjoyable. As one reviewer states, “Our guide Sabrina was very informative, always helpful, and very sweet,” emphasizing the importance of a good guide in transforming a sightseeing trip into a genuine experience.

Several travelers mention that the schedule is well-paced, with enough time to see the main sights and enjoy some leisure in each city. “The schedule for the day was perfect,” one reviewer shares, adding that they appreciated the ample free time for personal exploration and meals.

The value for money is frequently highlighted. For just $53, you get round-trip transportation, guided tours, and plenty of sightseeing—especially considering the cost of taxis, entrance fees, and guides if you were to do this independently.

However, some travelers note that the long duration might be tiring for those less accustomed to full-day outings. Also, since mobility impairments are not accommodated, it’s best suited for active, able-bodied travelers comfortable with walking.

What’s Not Included

It’s worth noting that food and drinks aren’t included in the price. While you’ll have some free time to eat, bringing snacks or a water bottle is advisable, especially on a long day in the sun or cold. Many guides do offer local restaurant suggestions, adding value for those wanting authentic Belgian cuisine.

Practical Details: Transportation, Timing, and Tips

The coach used is comfortable, and some reviews mention built-in USB chargers—handy for keeping devices alive during the day. The tour begins at a convenient central location, with clear instructions to arrive a few minutes early. The guide will be wearing an ID badge, making them easy to spot.

Timing is tight but manageable—the schedule ensures essential sights are covered without feeling rushed. Still, we recommend wearing comfortable shoes as most of the sightseeing involves walking on cobblestone streets and historic plazas.

The tour is available in Spanish and English, catering to a broad range of travelers. It’s not suitable for those with mobility issues, given the walking involved and uneven surfaces.

Cancellation and Flexibility

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind, and the option to reserve now and pay later allows flexible planning—perfect for uncertain travel dates.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This full-day adventure is ideal for travelers who want a rundown of Antwerp and Ghent without the hassle of individual planning or transportation. It suits those who enjoy guided storytelling, want to see key architectural sights, and are comfortable with a packed schedule.

It’s especially good for first-time visitors or those short on time, who prefer to hit the highlights efficiently. The pace and structure aren’t suited for travelers with mobility challenges or those who prefer more relaxed, in-depth exploration.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers an accessible, well-organized way to see two of Belgium’s most photogenic and historically rich cities in one day. The combination of guided insights, scenic stops, and free exploration makes it a solid choice for travelers eager to make the most out of a short visit. With knowledgeable guides and a carefully balanced schedule, it’s easy to see why so many rave about the experience.

If you’re after a taste of Belgian architecture, history, and local life—without the stress of planning it yourself—this tour will serve you well. Just remember to bring comfortable shoes, a camera, and an appetite for Belgian waffles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While children over 2 years old are welcome, they must travel in a car seat if under 2. The long hours and walking may be tiring for very young children, so consider their comfort before booking.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is offered in Spanish and English, so check availability to match your preferred language.

How much free time do I get in each city?
You’ll have about 1.5 hours in Antwerp and 1.5 hours in Ghent for personal exploration, shopping, or grabbing a bite.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are a must. Also, consider bringing a water bottle, some snacks, and a camera to capture the sights.

Are the stops on the itinerary flexible?
The itinerary is fixed, but the free time allows you to explore some areas at your own pace.

Is this tour good value for money?
Absolutely. For $53, you get transportation, guided tours, and plenty of sightseeing—making it a cost-effective way to see two cities in one day.

In the end, this tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable way to get a taste of Belgium’s historic cities—especially if you value friendly guides, scenic views, and a balanced mix of guided and free time. It’s a smart choice for curious travelers ready for a full day of discovery.

You can check availability for your dates here: