Day Trip to Bruges and Ghent from Paris

We will pick you up in private transportation from your hotel/accommodation in Paris, where we will begin the ride to our first stop: Ghent, Belgium

We will pause at a rest stop in Assevillers so that you have time to buy a drink or use the restroom before we continue our journey to Belgium.

The first stop is Ghent, where you'll have the chance to explore the historic center.

At St. Bavo's Cathedral, visitors can admire stunning Gothic architecture and the famous "Ghent Altarpiece," a masterpiece of early Netherlandish art. Feel free to wander around the cathedral and take photos at your own pace.

Here you will discover the Ghent Belfry’s rich history as a medieval watchtower. It is free to enter and you can have time to walk around inside and take pictures.

At Graffiti Street, you can explore a vibrant alley filled with dynamic, ever-changing street art created by local and international artists.

We will then walk by Gravensteen medieval castle, where you can admire its imposing exterior, complete with sturdy stone walls, towers, and a moat, offering a glimpse into its rich medieval history.

Next, we’ll stroll along the enchanting canal in the heart of Ghent. As you walk, admire the beautifully preserved medieval buildings that reflect in the calm waters of the canal, each with its own story from the city’s vibrant past. This picturesque path leads you to the iconic Saint Michael’s Bridge, where you can pause to take in breathtaking panoramic views of Ghent’s most famous landmarks.

From Saint Michael’s Bridge, enjoy one of Ghent's most iconic views. The bridge offers a stunning panoramic vista of the city’s historic skyline, where the towers of Saint Nicholas’ Church, the Belfry, and Saint Bavo’s Cathedral align in perfect harmony. The bridge itself, with its ornate lamp posts and stone arches, is a masterpiece of architecture, making it a perfect spot for photos and soaking in the beauty of Ghent.

Next we will continue on to Bruges, where you will be able to see the Belfry of Bruges and also opt for a relaxing boat tour along Bruges' scenic canals.

Our first stop in Bruges is the Gunpowder Tower, a historic medieval structure that once served as a storage site for gunpowder and now stands as a testament to the city's fortified past.

The Beguinage "Ten Wijngaerde" in Bruges is a serene UNESCO World Heritage site, where you’ll find whitewashed houses, a tranquil courtyard, and a rich history as a haven for beguines, offering a peaceful glimpse into medieval monastic life.

This is a charming, narrow bridge adorned with locks and ribbons left by couples, symbolizing eternal love. In spring and summer, the surrounding canals are home to graceful swans, adding to the romantic and picturesque atmosphere. However, visitors are reminded not to feed the swans, as it may result in a fine of 50 euros.

This brewery offers a unique experience of Belgian beer craftsmanship, where visitors can tour the historic brewery, learn about traditional brewing methods, and enjoy tasting a variety of locally brewed beers. If you want to opt for the beer tasting, you can purchase tickets inside for your group.

Pur Chocolat, an artisanal chocolatier in Bruges, is renowned for its handcrafted Belgian chocolates made with the finest ingredients. Visitors can purchase a variety of exquisite pralines, truffles, and other sweet creations, showcasing the artistry and tradition of Bruges’ world-famous chocolate-making heritage.

Saint John’s Hospital in Bruges is one of Europe’s oldest preserved hospitals, dating back to the 12th century. As we walk past, you can get a glimpse into the hospital’s rich history and its role in medieval healthcare.

The Boniface Bridge in Bruges, often called the "Bridge of Love," is a quaint, picturesque stone bridge surrounded by historic buildings and lush greenery. It offers a romantic and peaceful setting, with stunning views of the canal and the perfect spot for photos that capture the charm of Bruges.

This is the perfect spot to take the best photos. Here, you can board the boats to explore the canals if you choose to do so; it’s also where you’ll find Casa Patata, a place we recommend for trying delicious French fries.

Next, we’ll visit this small basilica famous for housing a piece of cloth believed to contain the blood of Christ. Entry is free; you are welcome to wander around and take photos at your leisure.

The Market Square in Bruges is a bustling historic plaza surrounded by colorful medieval buildings, lively cafes, and the iconic Belfry Tower, making it the vibrant heart of the city. You’ll have some time to explore on your own and do some shopping if you choose before we head back to Paris.

Following a fun-filled day in Ghent and Bruges, enjoy a relaxing ride back to Paris before being dropped back at your accommodation. We will break at another rest stop half way so that you have time to get something to drink or use the restroom.