How to Visit Bruges and Ghent in One Day: Itinerary & Tips
Visiting Bruges and Ghent in one day might sound ambitious, but with an early start and a bit of planning, it’s absolutely doable – and totally worth it! These two Belgian gems are less than 30 minutes apart by train and offer a perfect mix of fairytale charm, medieval architecture, canals, and culture.
We followed this exact Bruges and Ghent in one day itinerary and managed to see all the highlights without feeling too rushed. The itinerary is a bit tight, but I love maximizing my time whenever I travel!
From climbing the Belfry of Bruges and strolling along the canals to exploring the medieval castle of Gravensteen in Ghent, every stop was memorable. If you’re short on time but want to experience both cities in a single day, this guide will show you exactly how to do it.
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Overview of Your Bruges and Ghent Day Trip
If you don’t want to worry about planning all the logistics yourself, you can join a guided day trip from Brussels to Bruges and Ghent. It includes transportation, a tour guide, and plenty of time to explore both cities. It’s a great option if you prefer a more relaxed and structured experience.
That said, planning your own day trip is super manageable! It gives you more flexibility to explore at your own pace, and I think you can actually see more than you would on a guided tour. If you’re up for the challenge of arranging everything yourself, here’s the schedule I recommend:
- Train from Brussels to Bruges (7:30 am-9 am)
- Grote Markt & Belfort (9 am-10 am)
- De Burg & Basilica of the Holy Blood (10 am-10:30 am)
- Rosary Quay & Canal Cruise (10:30 am-11:30 am)
- House of Waffles (11:30 am-12:30 pm)
- Boniface Bridge & Church of Our Lady (12:30 pm-1 pm)
- Minnewater Park (1 pm-1:30 pm)
- Train from Bruges to Ghent (1:30 pm-2:30 pm)
- Gravensteen (2:30 pm-4 pm)
- Korenlei, Graslei & St. Michael’s Bridge (4 pm-4:30 pm)
- St. Bavo’s Cathedral (4:30 pm-5 pm)
- Graffiti Street (5 pm-5:30 pm)
- Belfry of Ghent (5:30 pm-6 pm)
- Dinner in Ghent (6 pm-7 pm)
- Train from Ghent to Brussels (7 pm-8 pm)
Now let’s get into the details of how to see the best of Bruges and Ghent in one day!
Bruges 
Ghent
Bruges and Ghent in One Day: Detailed Itinerary
Train from Brussels to Bruges
Recommended time: 7:30 am–9 am
Since you only have one day to explore Bruges and Ghent, I recommend starting the day early. Catching a train from Brussels around 7:30 am gives you a solid head start before the streets fill up!
It’s best to book your train tickets in advance on the SNCB website – not only do they sometimes sell out, but it also saves time in the morning.
Tickets are flexible, so you can use them on any train heading in that direction on the same day. That means you don’t need to stress too much about missing a specific departure time!
The ride takes just about an hour, and once you arrive at Bruges station, the city center is technically walkable. But to save time and energy early in the day, I suggest hopping on a quick bus from the station instead.
You’ll walk back later when returning to the station, so this way, you can hit the ground running and make the most of your morning in Bruges.
Grote Markt & Belfort
Recommended time: 8:30 am–10:00 am
Start your Bruges adventure at the iconic Grote Markt, the heart of the city and easily one of the most photogenic squares in Belgium. Surrounded by colorful gabled buildings and lively cafes, it’s the perfect place to soak in the city’s fairytale charm.
The main highlight here is the Belfort (otherwise known as the Belfry of Bruges), a medieval bell tower that dominates the square. Climbing the Belfry is one of the top things to do in Bruges, with panoramic views of the rooftops and canals waiting at the top.
It’s a bit of a workout (you have to climb 366 steps to the top), but absolutely worth it if the weather’s clear!
If you want to go up the tower, I definitely recommend reserving your ticket in advance. Tickets are timed and can’t always be bought on the spot for your preferred time slot. You might get one for later in the day, but that’s not ideal when you’re trying to see both Bruges and Ghent in one day.
Even if you don’t go up the tower, take your time strolling around the square and snapping photos. This area is especially beautiful early in the morning before the crowds arrive, which is why it’s such a great first stop.
De Burg & Basilica of the Holy Blood
Recommended time: 10:00 am–10:30 am
Just a few minutes’ walk from Grote Markt, De Burg is another historic square in Bruges that’s packed with beautiful architecture.
It’s smaller and more tucked away than Grote Markt but just as impressive, with buildings like the Old Civil Registry and Bruges City Hall showcasing ornate facades and lots of Gothic flair.
While you’re here, step inside the Basilica of the Holy Blood. This small, two-level church is famous for housing a relic believed to contain a drop of Christ’s blood.
The lower chapel is dark and Romanesque, while the upper chapel is full of color, stained glass, and gold detailing – totally unexpected and definitely worth a quick visit!
If you have one full day in Bruges, I definitely recommend going inside the City Hall as well, but for this Bruges and Ghent itinerary, it’s enough to admire it from the outside before heading to your next stop.
Rosary Quay & Canal Cruise
Recommended time: 10:30 am–11:30 am
Rosary Quay (Rozenhoedkaai) is one of the most photographed spots in Bruges, and for good reason. The view of the canal with the medieval buildings lining the water is pure fairytale! This is the postcard shot you’ll see everywhere
It’s a great place to pause for a few minutes, snap some photos, and just soak up the charm of the city.
Right next to Rosary Quay, you’ll find several boat operators offering short canal cruises. These typically last about 30 minutes and run frequently throughout the day.
It’s a fun and relaxing way to see a different side of Bruges, especially since many of the canals are hidden from the main walking paths.
I definitely recommend doing a canal cruise during your Bruges and Ghent in one day adventure. It’s one of the best ways to experience the city’s beauty without taking up too much time!
You don’t need to reserve in advance, just head to the docks and hop on the next available boat. You might need to wait a bit if you’re visiting in the summer, but it’s worth it!
House of Waffles
Recommended time: 11:30 am–12:30 pm
No visit to Belgium is complete without trying a traditional waffle, and House of Waffles is a great spot to do just that!
It’s located just a short walk from the canal area and offers both sweet and savory options, so whether you’re in the mood for something classic with strawberries and whipped cream or something more creative, you’ll find it here.
This is also a good time to sit down for a quick break and recharge before continuing your Bruges and Ghent day trip. The service is quick, the portions are generous, and you can even order takeaway if you’d prefer to sit somewhere along the canals.
Since this place is pretty popular, you might find a short line, but it usually moves fast. If it’s too busy or you’re short on time, there are plenty of other waffle spots nearby to choose from as well.
Boniface Bridge & Church of Our Lady
Recommended time: 12:30 pm–1:00 pm
After your waffle break, take a short walk over to one of the most photogenic corners of Bruges.
Boniface Bridge is a charming little stone bridge tucked between historic buildings, with dreamy views of canals, ivy-covered walls, and the back of the Church of Our Lady.
Right nearby is the Church of Our Lady, home to a famous Michelangelo sculpture, the Madonna and Child. Since you’re only in Bruges for a short time, it’s okay to skip going inside this time, but the church’s exterior and its tall spire are beautiful to admire from the outside as you walk by.
This area feels quieter than the main square, making it a peaceful spot to enjoy before heading toward your final stop in Bruges.
Minnewater Park
Recommended time: 1:00 pm–1:30 pm
Minnewater Park is just a short walk from the Church of Our Lady and makes a lovely final stop in Bruges before you head to Ghent. It’s one of the most peaceful areas in the city, with weeping willows, swans gliding across the lake, and beautiful bridges that look straight out of a fairytale.
The park is often called the “Lake of Love,” and while you won’t have time to linger for long, it’s worth taking a few minutes to enjoy the views and snap a few photos.
Since the train station is just around the corner, this stop makes for a smooth and scenic transition out of Bruges as you continue your day trip to Ghent.
Train from Bruges to Ghent
Recommended time: 1:30 pm–2:30 pm
From Minnewater Park, it’s a short walk back to the Bruges train station. Trains to Ghent run regularly and only take about 25–30 minutes, so even if you’re slightly behind schedule, you’ll still have plenty of time to explore.
Just like in the morning, I recommend buying your ticket in advance. It’s more convenient, and your ticket will be valid on any train that day, giving you a bit of flexibility.
Once you arrive at Gent-Sint-Pieters station, hop on tram line 1 or 3 toward the city center and get off at the Gent Zonnestraat stop. From there, it’s about a 12-minute walk to your first stop in Ghent: Gravensteen Castle.
Gravensteen
Recommended time: 2:30 pm–4:00 pm
Gravensteen, also known as the Castle of the Counts, is one of the most impressive medieval landmarks in Belgium. It dates back to the 12th century and looks exactly like the kind of castle you’d draw as a kid, complete with towers, turrets, and a moat.
Inside, there’s a well-done museum that covers the castle’s history, complete with armor, weapons, and even a rather eerie torture chamber exhibit. But the real highlight is climbing up to the ramparts, where you’ll get some of the best views over Ghent’s rooftops and canals.
Since this is one of the most popular things to do in Ghent, it’s a good idea to buy your ticket online in advance if you want to skip the line. You don’t need a guided tour, but the audio guide is well worth it – it’s both informative and entertaining.
Korenlei, Graslei & St. Michael’s Bridge
Recommended time: 4:00 pm–4:30 pm
After visiting the castle, take a stroll toward one of Ghent’s most scenic spots. The Korenlei and Graslei are two parallel quays lining the river, surrounded by stunning historic buildings that reflect beautifully in the water. It’s one of those postcard-perfect places that totally lives up to the hype!
Right nearby is St. Michael’s Bridge, which gives you one of the best panoramic views in Ghent. From the top, you can see the Three Towers of Ghent – St. Nicholas’ Church, the Belfry, and St. Bavo’s Cathedral – all lined up in a row.
You can also take a canal cruise from this area, so if you skipped the one in Bruges, this is your second chance! And if you ever find yourself with one full day in Ghent, I definitely recommend doing it – it’s such a relaxing way to see the city from a different angle.
St. Bavo’s Cathedral
Recommended time: 4:30 pm–5:00 pm
Just a short walk from St. Michael’s Bridge, St. Bavo’s Cathedral is one of the most important religious buildings in Belgium and a must for your Bruges and Ghent in one day itinerary.
It’s best known as the home of the famous Ghent Altarpiece, also called the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb, a stunning 15th-century polyptych by the Van Eyck brothers.
Visiting the cathedral itself is free, but if you want to see the altarpiece, there’s a separate entrance and a small admission fee. Even if you don’t go into the paid section, the cathedral’s beautiful Gothic architecture makes it well worth a quick stop.
Graffiti Street
Recommended time: 5:00 pm–5:30 pm
Just around the corner from the cathedral, Graffiti Street (Werregarenstraat) is a fun contrast to Ghent’s medieval charm. This narrow alley is completely covered in colorful, ever-changing street art and murals. Artists regularly repaint the walls, so it never looks the same twice.
It’s not a long street, but it’s a cool stop for photos and adds a modern, urban edge to your trip. You’ll only need a few minutes here, but it’s worth seeing, especially if you enjoy creative, offbeat spots.
Belfry of Ghent
Recommended time: 5:30 pm–6:00 pm
Just a short walk from Graffiti Street, the Belfry of Ghent is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks and the perfect final sightseeing stop of the day. It closes at 6:00 pm sharp, so you’ll need to be mindful of time. But if you make it, you’re in for a treat!
We visited around 5:30 pm, and it was practically empty, which made the experience even better. I definitely recommend going up to the top as the views over Ghent are absolutely worth it. Take the elevator on the way up to save time, then walk down the stairs to see the interior details along the way.
If you’re doing Bruges and Ghent in one day, this is such a rewarding way to end the sightseeing part of your trip.
Belfry of Ghent 
View from the top
Dinner in Ghent
Recommended time: 6:00 pm–7:00 pm
After a packed day exploring both Bruges and Ghent, you’ve definitely earned a good meal. There are tons of restaurants and cafes around the historic center, but if you’re looking for something casual and quick before heading back to Brussels, I can recommend Manhattn’s Burgers or Maison Elza.
We opted for Manhattn’s Burgers and it totally hit the spot – easy, fast, and satisfying after a long day. Maison Elza offers a more classic Belgian brasserie feel with nice views over the river, so it’s a great alternative if you want a slower-paced dinner.
That said, if you’re feeling tired after such a busy day, don’t feel pressured to squeeze in dinner – just hop on an earlier train and head back to Brussels. Trains run frequently throughout the evening, so there’s no need to rush.
Train from Ghent to Brussels
Recommended time: 7:00 pm–8:00 pm
After dinner (or if you’re too tired, feel free to skip it), it’s time to make your way back to Brussels.
Trains from Gent-Sint-Pieters Station run frequently throughout the evening, so there’s no need to rush. Just check the schedule on the NSBC app or screens at the station and hop on the next one that works for you.
And that’s it – that’s exactly how I recommend seeing Bruges and Ghent in one day! It’s a full-on itinerary, but if you start early and keep a steady pace, you can see so much in just a single day. I hope you will love your trip as much as I did!
