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Discover the enchanting cities of Bruges and Ghent, where medieval history, stunning architecture and picturesque canals create the perfect Belgian getaway. Wander through Bruges’ cobbled streets, admire its magnificent market squares and historic buildings, and enjoy a relaxing cruise along its beautiful canals. In Ghent, explore charming riverside quays, impressive Gothic landmarks and atmospheric medieval lanes. With their rich heritage, welcoming cafés and famous Belgian chocolates, these two captivating cities offer a wonderful blend of culture, history and relaxation, promising a memorable European escape.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Travel to Belgium

We depart Dublin on our direct flight to Brussels. On arrival at Brussels Airport, you will be met by your tour leader and local tour guide before travelling by coach to your 4-star hotel in the charming city of Bruges.

On arrival at the hotel, you will drop off your luggage before having some time to enjoy lunch at a local café or restaurant. The remainder of the afternoon is free for you to explore Bruges at your own pace. Perhaps take a leisurely stroll through its picturesque streets, admire the beautiful medieval architecture or discover one of the many cafés and chocolate shops for which the city is famous.

This evening, we will come together for a welcome dinner, offering the perfect opportunity to meet your fellow travellers and look forward to the days ahead.

Day 2 – Discover the Medieval Charm of Bruges

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before meeting your local guides for a fascinating walking tour of Bruges. You will have the opportunity to discover the city’s rich history, beautiful architecture and charming canals.

Beginning at ’t Zand Square, near the striking modern Concertgebouw concert hall, we will make our way through the main shopping streets towards the historic Market Square. Along the way, we will visit St Saviour’s Cathedral before admiring the magnificent 83-metre Belfry and the historic Market Halls. Fans of the film In Bruges, starring Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson, will recognise Market Square as one of the city’s memorable filming locations.
Continue to the picturesque Jan van Eyck Square, once the heart of Bruges’ thriving medieval trading district. Discover impressive historic buildings that reflect the city’s importance as a major commercial centre between the 13th and 15th centuries. The walk also takes in the elegant Burg Square, home to the beautiful Gothic City Hall and the Basilica of the Holy Blood, as well as the historic Fish Market and the charming Dijver. We will also pass St John’s Hospital, one of Europe’s oldest surviving hospital buildings, before reaching the peaceful Minnewater, also known as the Lake of Love.

The morning concludes with a delightful 30-minute cruise along Bruges’ famous canals, offering a different perspective of the city’s historic buildings, bridges and picturesque waterways.

Lunch is at your own arrangement, followed by a free afternoon to explore Bruges at your leisure. Browse the boutiques, sample some of Belgium’s famous chocolates or relax at a traditional café.

Late afternoon, we will transfer back to the hotel. The evening is free to enjoy dinner at a restaurant of your choice.

Overnight stay in Bruges.

Day 3 – Discover Historic Ghent

After breakfast, we will depart Bruges and travel by coach to the beautiful city of Ghent, accompanied by our tour leader. On arrival, additional local guides will join the group for a walking tour of this fascinating historic city.

Our exploration begins along the picturesque Graslei and Korenlei, two of Ghent’s most attractive historic quays, lined with beautifully preserved guild houses overlooking the River Lys. From the surrounding bridges, enjoy wonderful views of the city’s famous three towers: St Nicholas’ Church, the Belfry and St Bavo’s Cathedral. Continue through the lively Korenmarkt before admiring the impressive Belfry and its historic Cloth Hall, both recognised for their heritage significance. We will also visit the exterior of St Bavo’s Cathedral, renowned for its magnificent architecture, before making our way towards the elegant City Hall, which showcases a striking blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles.

At Vrijdagmarkt, discover the statue of Jacob van Artevelde, an important figure in Ghent’s medieval history. Nearby, see Dulle Griet, the enormous 15th-century iron cannon that has become one of the city’s most unusual landmarks.
Our walk continues across the River Lys into the Patershol district, one of Ghent’s most atmospheric neighbourhoods, where narrow cobbled lanes and winding streets retain their medieval character. We will also visit the courtyard of the historic House of Alijn, a former almshouse that now houses a museum dedicated to everyday life and local traditions.

The tour concludes at the impressive Castle of the Counts, a striking medieval fortress that stands as a reminder of Ghent’s powerful past.

After the guided tour, enjoy free time to discover Ghent at your own pace. You might choose to browse the shops, explore the historic streets or relax over lunch at one of the many cafés and restaurants.

Later, we will return to Bruges by coach.

The evening is free to enjoy dinner at a restaurant of your choice

Overnight stay in Bruges.

Day 4 – Farewell to Bruges

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel before making the most of your final time in Bruges. The day is free for you to revisit your favourite places, browse the charming shops, enjoy a Belgian waffle or simply soak up the atmosphere of this beautiful medieval city.

At the appropriate time, we will transfer to Brussels Airport, with assistance provided for your departure.

We hope you return home with wonderful memories of Belgium’s historic cities, picturesque canals and fascinating heritage.

Please note that our itinerary may change due to weather, traffic conditions etc.

Please note that all our tours involve some level of walking and may include ascending or descending steps. They may not be suitable for individuals with walking difficulties or limited mobility. We recommend wearing appropriate footwear.

Tour itinerary may change slightly based on flight arrival and departure times

Price includes:

- Return direct scheduled flights Dublin to Brussels
- All airport taxes
- 10kg carry-on bag per person + Pre-booked Seat
- Coach transfers in Bruges
- 3 nights Bed & Breakfast + 1 Evening Meal
- Walking Tour of Bruges with Canal Cruise
- Walking Tour of Ghent
- Services of our tour leader
- Services of our local tour guide

Extras:

- Travel Insurance
- Single Room Supplement from €210