When visiting Brussels, don’t miss the opportunity to experience two of Belgium’s most enchanting cities in one unforgettable day: Ghent and Bruges. Steeped in medieval charm, layered with history, and bursting with breathtaking architecture and art, these cities offer a vivid window into the soul of Flanders. TPO.Travel is proud to elevate your exploration with a journey that’s as smooth and seamless as it is enriching and inspiring.
Let us take you beyond the capital and into the heart of Belgium’s most iconic heritage sites—where cobbled streets, Gothic towers, and artistic treasures await your discovery.
First Stop: Ghent — A Living Medieval Masterpiece
Nestled at the confluence of the Lys and Scheldt rivers, Ghent is a vibrant university city that boasts one of the most remarkably preserved medieval cityscapes in Europe. It’s where the past and present coexist beautifully—where castles and cathedrals meet cozy cafés and modern street art.
Saint Bavo’s Cathedral: Spiritual and Artistic Majesty
Your first highlight is the Saint Bavo Cathedral, the spiritual center of Ghent and one of Belgium’s most significant religious landmarks. Originally built as a wooden chapel in the 10th century and later expanded into a majestic Gothic cathedral, it became the seat of the Diocese of Ghent in 1559. This cathedral is not only architecturally magnificent but historically profound—it was here that Charles V, Holy Roman Emperor, was baptized.
Within the cathedral lies a world-famous treasure: The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb, a monumental polyptych painting by the Van Eyck brothers, often hailed as the pinnacle of early Netherlandish art. Though viewing the masterpiece requires a separate entry, standing within the hallowed halls of Saint Bavo’s is an experience all its own.
Belfry, St. Nicholas Church & Gravensteen Castle
As you move through the city, you’ll pass iconic structures like the Belfry of Ghent, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and symbol of civic pride and freedom. Nearby is the St. Nicholas Church, one of the oldest and most striking churches in the city, known for its blend of Romanesque and Gothic elements.
And then there’s the Castle of the Counts (Gravensteen)—a stone fortress built in the 12th century that once served as a seat of power, a prison, and even a cotton factory. Standing atop its battlements, you’re rewarded with panoramic views of Ghent’s medieval rooftops and canals.
Bruges: Venice of the North
After soaking in the energy and history of Ghent, the journey continues to Bruges—a fairy-tale town where time seems to stand still. Known as the “Venice of the North” for its quaint canals and arched stone bridges, Bruges is one of Europe’s most photogenic destinations and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in its entirety.
Lake of Love (Minnewater): A Romantic Beginning
Begin your Bruges experience at the serene Lake of Love (Minnewater), a picturesque waterway surrounded by willows, swans, and centuries-old architecture. According to legend, the lake is named after a tragic love story, and walking its perimeter feels like stepping into a painting.
Church of Our Lady: A Testament to Art and Faith
At the heart of Bruges stands the majestic Church of Our Lady, with its 122-meter-high tower—the tallest structure in the city and the second tallest brickwork tower in the world. But what truly sets this church apart is what lies within: the Madonna and Child, a delicate white marble sculpture by Michelangelo, created around 1504. This is one of the few works by the artist to have left Italy during his lifetime.
Behind the altar, in the choir space, you’ll also find the intricately crafted tomb of Charles the Bold, the last Valois Duke of Burgundy, adding another layer of nobility and history to this awe-inspiring space.
Optional Canal Boat Tour: A Unique Perspective
While in Bruges, travelers have the opportunity to take an optional canal boat tour (not included), offering a different and deeply memorable view of the city. Gliding beneath old stone bridges, past charming townhouses and secret gardens, this experience adds a poetic touch to your day.
Multilingual Experience
Guided tours through Ghent and Bruges are available in English, French, and Spanish, ensuring accessibility for international travelers. TPO.Travel works closely with seasoned local guides who not only provide historical insight but share the soul of these cities—their legends, their people, and their living traditions.
Journey Made Effortless with TPO.Travel
Your trip from Brussels to Ghent and Bruges is seamless and enjoyable when curated by TPO.Travel. With our professional travel services, you can relax and immerse yourself in the experience while we handle all logistics. Our offerings include:
- Luxury transportation and transfers from your hotel or central pickup point
- Knowledgeable multilingual guides with expertise in art, history, and culture
- Flexible, customizable itineraries tailored to your preferences
- On-the-go concierge support for anything you may need during the journey
- Pre-arranged access to select attractions, where possible
From the moment you depart Brussels to your return at sunset, every detail is handled with care.
Why Choose TPO.Travel for Your Day Trip?
At TPO.Travel, we don’t just plan tours—we curate experiences that tell the stories of places in meaningful, personalized ways. Our deep local knowledge, premium services, and multilingual support make us the perfect partner for cultural discovery.
Our mission is simple: help you see more, stress less, and create moments that stay with you long after you leave.
A Day of Depth and Discovery
By the end of this day tour, you’ll have seen two of Belgium’s most iconic cities, walked through medieval marketplaces, admired Gothic towers, and stood in awe before some of Europe’s greatest artistic treasures. Whether you’re drawn to history, art, architecture, or romantic scenery, Ghent and Bruges offer it all.
From the mighty halls of Saint Bavo’s to the peaceful shores of the Lake of Love, every stop offers a glimpse into the spirit of Belgium—and with TPO.Travel, you’ll experience it all with comfort, context, and style.