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Day Trips & Excursions

Day Trips & Excursions

Flanders, Belgium

Considerations for Day Trips

Belgium's compact size and efficient public transport make day trips from Ghent straightforward. Trains connect most major cities swiftly.

Consider purchasing a Rail Pass for multiple journeys, or individual tickets for single trips. Bookings for experiences can enrich your day out. Explore options on GetYourGuide's day trip section.

Essential Day Trip Tips

  • Train travel generally quickest
  • Check opening hours for attractions
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes
  • Book tours in advance, especially for popular sites via GetYourGuide

Nearby Destinations

Many accessible and compelling locations are within an easy day trip from Ghent.

Bruges: Venice of the North

Often called the "Venice of the North," Bruges picturesque canals, medieval architecture, and cobbled streets transport you back in time.

Bruges Highlights

  • Serene canal boat rides
  • Climb the iconic Belfry
  • Sample local chocolate and artisanal beers

Antwerp: Fashion & Diamond Capital

Belgium's second-largest city and a center for fashion and diamonds. Explore artistic heritage and contemporary design.

Antwerp Must-See

  • Visit Cathedral of Our Lady
  • Explore Rubens House
  • Wander through the Diamond Quarter

Brussels & Leuven: Capital and University Charm

Brussels: European Capital

  • Grand Place, UNESCO site
  • Explore the unique Atomium
  • Traffic can be heavy
  • Parking challenging in city center

Leuven: University & Heritage

  • Stunning Gothic Town Hall
  • Great Beguinage, UNESCO site
  • Fewer large museums
  • Shopping limited compared to capitals

Travel Times from Ghent-Sint-Pieters

  • Bruges25-30 mins
  • Antwerp45-60 mins
  • Brussels30-40 mins
  • Leuven50-60 mins
  • Frequent TrainsHourly Service
  • Peak HoursCan be busy
  • Off-Peak TravelMore relaxed
  • Ticket PurchaseOnline or Station

Efficient Day Trip Planning

Belgium has an excellent rail network. Day trips from Ghent are simple via train, leaving more time for exploration. Purchase tickets in advance for best fares.

Natural Escapes

While Ghent urban, green spaces and scenic countryside are nearby.

Oudenaarde: Flemish Ardennes

Hilly region south of Ghent, popular for cycling, especially for fans of the Tour of Flanders. Picturesque landscapes and challenging bike routes.

Leie River Area: Artistic Retreat

Explore scenic countryside along the Leie River near De Pinte/Sint-Martens-Latem. Area for artists' colony, beautiful villas, leisurely cycling, pleasant walks.

Meetjesland: Polders & Canals

Northwest of Ghent, with polders, canals, and charming, authentic villages. Excellent for flat, well-maintained cycling paths through tranquil landscape.

Cycling & Walking Routes

Discover the scenic beauty surrounding Ghent on two wheels or by foot.

Cycling Routes

  • Flanders Cycling Network
  • Bike rental options available
  • Well-marked paths

Walking Trails

Explore the natural landscapes at a leisurely pace.

Trail Options

  • Riverside paths
  • Park explorations
  • Hilly terrain in Ardennes

Belgian Coast Access

Ostend & De PanneAccessible by train
Beach DayEnjoy the seaside
PromenadesWalk the boardwalks
Fresh SeafoodLocal culinary experiences
Travel TimeAround 1 hour
Train ChangeOften in Bruges

Embrace Nature

  • Local parks tranquil retreats.
  • Rent a bike to explore the countryside.
  • Support local businesses on natural escapes.
  • Carry out all waste responsibly.
  • Stick to marked trails.

Cultural Excursions

Deepen your appreciation for Belgian history and culture through these specific sites.

Ypres: World War I History

A city with profound historical significance related to World War I. Experience a solemn but important historical journey.

Sites in Ypres

  • Menin Gate ceremony nightly
  • Tyne Cot Cemetery
  • In Flanders Fields Museum

Mechelen: Historical & Reflective

A historical city with a stunning Gothic cathedral and poignant remembrance sites. A blend of historical beauty and poignant stories.

Mechelen Attractions

  • St. Rumbold's Tower (UNESCO)
  • Charming Beguinage
  • Dossin Barracks museum

Doel: Ghost Town Exploration

A controversial, largely abandoned ghost town near Antwerp. Known for striking street art and desolate atmosphere. Visit responsibly.

Doel Highlights

  • Striking street art
  • Unique photography opportunities
  • Respect remaining residents

Belgian Cultural Insights

Exploring specific sites deepens one's appreciation for Belgium's diverse heritage.

Cultural Exploration Tips

  • Engage with locals
  • Seek out historical markers
  • Understand local governance

Planning Multi-Day Cultural Excursions

Beyond day trips, consider extending your stay to fully immerse in regional culture.

Flemish Art Cities

Ghent, Bruges, Antwerp, Brussels. A classic route exploring comprehensive Flanders.

Benelux Grand Tour

Expand to Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Luxembourg City for a broader experience.

Northern France

Lille or Paris accessible via high-speed rail, offering diverse cultural experiences.

Cultural Immersion Advice

Research historical context before visiting sites. Engaging with local narratives enriches your journey.

Multi-Day Extensions

Extend your trip beyond Ghent to explore more of Belgium and neighboring countries.

Regional Connections

1

The Netherlands

Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague easily accessible by train from Ghent.

2

France

Paris reachable via Thalys from Brussels-Midi. Lille a short train ride from Ghent.

3

Luxembourg

Luxembourg City reached by train from Brussels, for a new country.

Flemish Art Cities Route

  • Start in Ghent
  • Visit Bruges for medieval charm
  • Antwerp for fashion and diamonds
  • Brussels for grand squares
  • 4-7 days suggested duration
  • Comprehensive overview of Flanders

Grand Tour of Benelux

  • Begin in Ghent
  • Explore Bruges, Antwerp, Brussels
  • Extend to Amsterdam, Rotterdam
  • Then southeast to Luxembourg City
  • 7-14 days suggested duration
  • Broader experience of Low Countries

Transportation & Connections

Belgian Hubs

All destinations are well-connected by direct or easy train routes, usually via major Belgian hubs like Brussels or Antwerp.

Train Network

Belgium's train network makes multi-city travel very efficient and pleasant.

Cross-Border Trains

High-speed trains (e.g., Thalys) connect Belgium to neighboring countries quickly.

Seamless Regional Journeys

Utilize Belgium's extensive train network for effortless travel between cities and countries. Pre-booking tickets simplifies longer routes.