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A Perfect Day Trip to Ghent from Brussels: Is It Worth It?
Planning a trip to Brussels and wondering where to go for a quick escape? Look no further. While many guides point you towards Bruges, the real gem of Flanders might just be the incredible city of Ghent. So, is a day trip to Ghent from Brussels worth it? The answer is a resounding absolutely! Ghent offers a magical blend of stunning medieval architecture, picturesque canals, and a vibrant, modern energy, all without the overwhelming crowds you’ll find in its more famous neighbor. It’s historic, it’s authentic, and thanks to Belgium’s fantastic train network, it’s incredibly easy to explore in a single, unforgettable day.
Ghent Day Trip Quick Facts for 2025
Here’s a scannable overview to help you plan your adventure at a glance.
| Metric | Detail |
|---|---|
| Distance from Brussels | ~56 km / 35 miles |
| Travel Time (Train) | ~30 minutes |
| Average Train Cost | ~€10.20 (one-way) |
| Best Mode of Transport | Train |
| Best Time to Visit | April – September (weekdays) |
| Must-See Attraction | Gravensteen (Castle of the Counts) |
How to Get from Brussels to Ghent
Getting from the heart of Brussels to the medieval center of Ghent is fast, simple, and affordable. While you have a few options, one stands head and shoulders above the rest.
By Train (The Best Option)
The train is, without a doubt, the fastest, most efficient, and most recommended way to travel between Brussels and Ghent. The Belgian rail system (SNCB/NMBS) is excellent, with direct InterCity (IC) trains running constantly.
- Stations: You can depart from any of the main Brussels stations: Brussels-Midi/Zuid, Brussels-Central, or Brussels-Nord. You will arrive at Gent-Sint-Pieters station.
- Frequency & Duration: Trains are incredibly frequent, running every 15-20 minutes. The direct journey takes only about 28-37 minutes.
- Cost & Tickets: A standard single adult ticket costs approximately €10.20. You can buy tickets online via the SNCB website/app or at the station kiosks. Pro Tip: If you’re traveling on a weekend (from 7 PM Friday to Sunday), purchase a “Weekend Ticket” online for a 50% discount on your return journey!
- Getting to the Center: From Gent-Sint-Pieters station, the historic center is a short tram ride away. Exit the station and take Tram line 1 (direction “Evergem” or “Wondelgem”). Get off at the Korenmarkt or Gravensteen stop (about 10-15 minutes) to be right in the middle of the action.
By Car
Driving from Brussels to Ghent takes about 45-60 minutes without traffic via the E40 motorway. However, it’s often not the best choice for a day trip. Ghent’s city center is a Low Emission Zone (LEZ), meaning you may need to register your vehicle in advance to avoid a fine. Furthermore, parking in the historic center is difficult to find and very expensive. A smarter choice is to use a Park + Ride (P+R) facility on the city’s outskirts and take public transport into the center.
By Guided Tour
For those who prefer a completely hassle-free experience, a guided tour from Brussels is an excellent option. These tours handle all transportation and logistics, often providing a knowledgeable guide to show you the highlights. Many tours also combine Ghent and Bruges into a single day, which can be a good (though rushed) way to see both if you’re short on time.
| Mode | Duration | Cost (Approx.) | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Train | ~30 mins | €20.40 return | Fastest, frequent, relaxing, city center access is easy. | None, it’s the best option. |
| Car | 45-60+ mins | Varies (fuel + parking) | Flexibility to stop elsewhere. | Traffic, expensive parking, Low Emission Zone rules. |
| Guided Tour | Full Day | €50+ | Hassle-free, includes guide, no planning needed. | Less freedom, fixed schedule, can be rushed. |
Top 5 Things to Do on a Ghent Day Trip
With its compact historical center, you can see Ghent’s most spectacular sights in a single day. Here are the five absolute must-dos.
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Step Back in Time at Gravensteen (Castle of the Counts)
This formidable 12th-century stone castle sits right in the city center, complete with a moat, turrets, and imposing battlements. The included audio guide is surprisingly witty and tells the castle’s history from a unique perspective. The views from the top are magnificent!
Cost: €13.
Tip: Arrive close to the 10:00 AM opening time to experience it with fewer people. -
Admire the Ghent Altarpiece at St. Bavo’s Cathedral
While the cathedral itself is free to enter and breathtakingly beautiful, the real treasure is “The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb.” This world-famous 15th-century masterpiece by the Van Eyck brothers is a pinnacle of Western art, recently restored to its former glory. The new visitor center uses augmented reality to bring its story to life.
Cost: €13 to see the altarpiece.
Tip: Book your ticket online in advance to reserve a time slot and skip the potential queues. -
Soak in the Views from the Belfry of Ghent
Climb (or take the elevator!) to the top of this 91-meter UNESCO World Heritage site for the best panoramic views of Ghent. You can see the castle, St. Bavo’s Cathedral, and St. Nicholas’ Church all from this single vantage point. It’s a fantastic way to get your bearings and appreciate the city’s medieval skyline.
Cost: €11.
Tip: The climb is worth it, but the elevator makes it accessible for almost everyone. -
Photograph the Iconic Graslei and Korenlei
This is the postcard view of Ghent. The Graslei and Korenlei are the two streets lining the Leie river, flanked by stunning medieval guildhalls. It’s beautiful at any time of day, but it truly comes alive during the “blue hour” after sunset when the buildings are illuminated. It’s the perfect spot to sit, relax, and soak in the atmosphere.
Cost: Free!
Tip: For the most iconic photo, head to St. Michael’s Bridge. From there, you can capture the Graslei, Korenlei, and Ghent’s three famous towers in one shot. -
Take a Relaxing Canal Boat Tour
See the city from a different perspective with a guided boat tour along its historic waterways. In about 40-50 minutes, you’ll glide past the Castle of the Counts, old monasteries, and beautiful bridges while your guide shares fascinating stories about Ghent’s history. It’s a relaxing and informative way to see the sights.
Cost: Around €9.50.
Tip: Most boat tours depart from the Graslei/Korenlei area, so it’s easy to hop on after you’ve finished taking photos.
A Perfect One-Day Ghent Itinerary from Brussels
Feel overwhelmed? Don’t be! Here is a simple, step-by-step itinerary to help you structure your perfect day trip.
- 9:00 AM: Catch a direct train from Brussels Central Station to Gent-Sint-Pieters.
- 9:30 AM: Arrive in Ghent. Buy a tram ticket and hop on Tram 1 towards the city center.
- 10:00 AM: Get off at the Gravensteen stop and be one of the first to enter the Castle of the Counts.
- 12:00 PM: After exploring the castle, walk over to St. Bavo’s Cathedral for your pre-booked viewing of the Mystic Lamb altarpiece.
- 1:30 PM: Time for lunch! Grab some famous Belgian frites from a frituur or find a cozy cafe in the Patershol neighborhood.
- 2:30 PM: Head to the Belfry and take the elevator to the top for breathtaking 360-degree views of the city.
- 4:00 PM: Make your way to the Graslei and embark on a 40-minute canal boat tour.
- 5:00 PM: After the tour, wander through the charming, narrow streets of the Patershol district. Don’t forget to buy some local Cuberdons (cone-shaped candies) from a street cart!
- 6:30 PM: Find a spot at a riverside cafe on the Korenlei for a well-deserved Belgian beer and a delicious dinner. Try the local Gentse Waterzooi stew.
- 8:00 PM: Take Tram 1 back to Gent-Sint-Pieters station to catch your train back to Brussels, full of memories.
Where to Eat in Ghent: From Frites to Feasts
Ghent is a university city with a fantastic food scene. Here are a few recommendations for every budget.
- Budget-Friendly Bites (€): You can’t leave Belgium without trying frites. Head to Frituur Tartaar for some of the best in the city. Also, keep an eye out for waffle stands for a sweet treat.
- Classic Belgian Mid-Range (€€): For a classic Belgian meal in a historic setting, try Du Progres on the Korenmarkt. The charming Patershol neighborhood is also packed with cozy, mid-range restaurants offering traditional cuisine.
- A Special Treat (€€€): For a memorable dining experience, book a table at Pakhuis, a stunning brasserie set in a converted warehouse with a towering iron-and-glass interior.
Local Specialties to Try: Gentse Waterzooi (a creamy chicken or fish stew), Cuberdons/Neuzekes (the cone-shaped raspberry candies), and sharp Tierenteyn mustard.
Insider Tips for Your Ghent Day Trip
- Wear comfortable shoes. The historic center is full of cobblestones, and you’ll be doing a lot of walking. Your feet will thank you!
- Use the Weekend Ticket. If traveling between Friday evening and Sunday, this SNCB rail pass gives you a 50% discount on your return fare.
- Check opening times. Many museums and some attractions in Belgium are closed on Mondays. Always double-check official websites for the most current hours before you go.
- Find the secret view. The view from St. Michael’s Bridge is famous for a reason—it’s the only spot where you can see the Belfry, St. Bavo’s Cathedral, and St. Nicholas’ Church all lined up.
- Consider the CityCard Gent. This card includes public transport and entry to most major attractions. It might not be cost-effective for a short day trip where you only visit 2-3 sites, but do the math to see if it works for your plans.
Estimated Budget for a Day Trip to Ghent
Here’s a sample breakdown of what you can expect to spend per person for a day in Ghent.
| Expense | Budget Traveler | Mid-Range Traveler | Luxury Traveler |
|---|---|---|---|
| Return Train Fare | €10.20 (Weekend) | €20.40 | €20.40 |
| Local Transport | €3.00 | €3.00 | €7.50 (Day Pass) |
| Attractions (1-2) | €13.00 | €26.00 | €40.00+ |
| Lunch | €8.00 (Frites) | €25.00 (Cafe) | €45.00 (Restaurant) |
| Dinner/Snacks | €15.00 (Quick meal) | €40.00 (Restaurant) | €80.00+ (Fine dining) |
| Total (Approx.) | ~€49 | ~€114 | ~€193+ |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can you do a day trip from Brussels to Ghent?
Yes, absolutely! It is one of the easiest, fastest, and most rewarding day trips from Brussels. The direct train takes only about 30 minutes, giving you a full day to explore the city without feeling rushed.
Is a day trip to Ghent worth it?
100% yes. Ghent offers the perfect combination of history, beauty, and authentic Belgian culture. It has canals and architecture to rival Bruges but with a more vibrant, lived-in atmosphere and significantly fewer tourist crowds, making for a more relaxing and rewarding experience.
How long is the train ride from Brussels to Ghent?
The direct InterCity (IC) train journey is very quick, typically taking between 28 and 37 minutes from Brussels-Central to Gent-Sint-Pieters.
Which is nicer, Bruges or Ghent?
This is the great Belgian debate! It depends on what you’re looking for. Bruges is a picture-perfect fairytale city, incredibly romantic and preserved like a museum, but it can get extremely crowded. Ghent is a larger, dynamic university city with equally impressive architecture and canals but with a more authentic, modern buzz. For a day trip that feels less like a tourist theme park and more like a real, vibrant historical city, many travelers prefer Ghent.
Can you do Ghent and Bruges in one day from Brussels?
While it is technically possible with a tightly scheduled organized tour, it is not recommended for independent travelers. Doing both means you’ll spend a significant part of your day on trains and will only have a few rushed hours in each city, barely scratching the surface. Both Ghent and Bruges deserve at least 6-8 hours to be appreciated properly. Pick one and enjoy it to the fullest!
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