Paris: Bruges and Ghent Day Trip With Boat Ride and Tastings

Discover the charm of Belgium’s historic cities on a day trip from Paris. This immersive tour takes you to the UNESCO-listed Bruges and vibrant Ghent, offering a glimpse into the country’s rich culture and culinary delights. Explore the picturesque canals of Bruges, indulge in local specialties, and embark on a scenic boat ride in Ghent. With a knowledgeable guide and carefully curated experiences, this day trip promises to leave you with unforgettable memories. But the real question is, where will your taste buds lead you next?

Key Points

• A 13-hour day trip from Paris to the historic cities of Bruges and Ghent, with guided tours, boat rides, and tastings of Belgian specialties.
• Includes hotel pickup/drop-off, transport by air-conditioned coach, live tour guides, and activities such as a chocolate and waffle tasting in Bruges.
• Explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city center of Bruges, with highlights like the Belfry and Market Square, as well as free time for personal exploration.
• Experience a scenic boat cruise along Ghent’s canals, with guided commentary on the city’s rich history, followed by a beer tasting at a local brewery.
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a "reserve now, pay later" option.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The day trip from Paris to Bruges and Ghent is priced from $652.53 per person and lasts for 13 hours.

It offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a reserve now & pay later option is available.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transport by air-conditioned coach, a live tour guide, chocolate and waffle tasting in Bruges, a boat ride in Ghent, and a beer tasting in Ghent.

Meals, drinks, and gratuities aren’t included.

Visitors are advised to wear comfortable walking shoes and dress for Belgium’s unpredictable weather.

Itinerary Details

The day trip begins with pickup from Paris, followed by a 3-hour van journey to Bruges.

In Bruges, guests enjoy a guided tour, photo stops, and free time for shopping and tasting regional foods like Belgian chocolates and waffles – all totaling 4 hours.

Then it’s a 1-hour van ride to Ghent, where the group goes on a guided tour, takes a scenic boat cruise, and participates in a wine tasting, lasting 2 hours.

Finally, the 3-hour return trip brings travelers back to Paris. Itineraries are subject to change.

Guided Tour of Bruges

During the guided tour of Bruges, visitors explore the historic city center, a UNESCO World Heritage site often referred to as the "Venice of the North."

An expert local guide leads the group through the charming cobblestone streets, pointing out the stunning medieval architecture, picturesque canals, and iconic landmarks like the towering Belfry of Bruges.

The tour highlights:

1. The Market Square, home to the Belfry and the lively Bruges Burg.

2. The Church of Our Lady, with its striking brick tower and impressive art collection.

3. The Minnewater, a tranquil lake known as the "Lake of Love."

4. Quaint shops and cafes where visitors can savor Belgian chocolates and waffles.

Tasting Belgian Delicacies

After exploring Bruges’ picturesque canals and historic landmarks, visitors can savor the city’s renowned Belgian delicacies.

A chocolate and waffle tasting allows travelers to indulge in two of Belgium’s most celebrated culinary specialties. Expert guides share insights into the art of chocolate-making and the origins of traditional Belgian waffles.

With free time set aside for personal exploration, guests can further enjoy the local food culture by visiting charming cafes and patisseries.

This delectable experience offers a true taste of Bruges and its celebrated gastronomic traditions.

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Lunch in Bruges

What better way to take in Bruges’ culinary delights than with a traditional Belgian lunch at a local restaurant?

Indulge in:

1. Hearty, slow-cooked beef stew with rich, flavorful gravy and tender potatoes.

2. Freshly made Belgian waffles, topped with creamy whipped cream and a drizzle of sweet, local honey.

3. A sampling of artisanal Belgian cheeses, each with its own unique character and depth of flavor.

4. A refreshing glass of crisp, Belgian white beer to perfectly complement the savory and sweet flavors.

This quintessential Belgian lunch promises to transport you to the heart of Bruges’ culinary heritage.

Exploring Ghent

As the van winds its way from Bruges to Ghent, travelers eagerly anticipate the next phase of their day trip.

Upon arrival, the group sets out on a guided tour, weaving through the city’s picturesque streets and historic landmarks. The highlight is a scenic boat cruise along Ghent’s canals, offering a unique perspective of the city’s architecture and medieval charm.

Travelers embark on a guided tour, marveling at Ghent’s picturesque streets and historic landmarks, capped by a scenic canal cruise.

Next, the group visits a local brewery for a beer tasting, sampling the region’s renowned ales.

With free time to explore Ghent on their own, travelers can shop, dine, or simply soak in the lively atmosphere before the return journey to Paris.

Boat Ride and Beer Tasting

The boat ride along Ghent’s picturesque canals offers travelers a unique perspective of the city’s medieval architecture and charming atmosphere.

The 30-minute cruise provides:

1. Breathtaking views of Ghent’s iconic landmarks, including the Graslei harbor and the Three Towers.

2. An opportunity to admire the city’s beautiful historic buildings and bridges up close.

3. A chance to learn about Ghent’s rich history and cultural heritage from the knowledgeable guide.

4. A relaxing and enjoyable experience to complement the guided walking tour.

Following the boat ride, the tour includes a beer tasting at a local brewery, allowing visitors to sample some of Belgium’s renowned craft beers.

What to Pack and Prepare

When preparing for this day trip to Bruges and Ghent, it’s important to pack appropriately.

Wear comfortable walking shoes as you’ll be doing quite a bit of walking during the guided tours. Check the weather forecast and pack layers and an umbrella, as Belgium’s weather can be unpredictable.

Bring a small backpack or purse to carry essentials like your camera, snacks, and wallet. Don’t forget to bring local currency for optional purchases like meals, souvenirs, and gratuities.

With the right preparation, you’ll be ready to fully enjoy the historic charm and scenic beauty of these Belgian cities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Hotel Accommodation Included in the Tour Price?

Hotel accommodation is not included in the tour price. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, guided tours, and select tastings, but does not cover the cost of overnight accommodation.

What Language Is the Guided Tour Conducted In?

The guided tours are conducted in English. The tour operator employs live English-speaking guides to lead the walking tours in Bruges and Ghent, providing insightful commentary on the history and landmarks of these Flemish cities.

Can Vegetarian/Vegan Options Be Accommodated for Meals?

Yes, the tour can accommodate vegetarian and vegan dietary preferences. Travelers should inform the tour operator of any special dietary needs upon booking to ensure appropriate meal options are available during the day trip.

Is There an Option to Customize the Itinerary or Activities?

While the standard itinerary cannot be customized, the tour operator may accommodate special requests like vegetarian/vegan meals or alternative activities if communicated in advance. Flexibility is limited, but they’ll do their best to personalize the experience within the tour’s constraints.

Are There Any Age or Fitness Requirements for the Tour?

There are no specific age or fitness requirements for this tour. It’s suitable for most travelers, but those with mobility issues may find the moderate walking challenging. Comfortable shoes are recommended to fully enjoy the activities.

The Wrap Up

Enjoy the charm of Belgium on this day trip from Paris. Explore the UNESCO-listed historic center of Bruges, indulge in local delicacies, and discover the picturesque Ghent through a boat ride and beer tasting. This well-rounded experience allows you to fully embrace Belgium’s rich culture and culinary heritage. Don’t miss this opportunity to make the most of your time in this enchanting region.

You can check availability for your dates here: