Spontaneous trip to Ghent and Bruges
I had a few days off and spontaneously decided that it would be nice to visit Ghent and Bruges.
So I booked accommodation in Ghent and shortly afterwards I was on my way.
I traveled by car, but it's certainly possible to get there by train. One reason for this is that Ghent has an extensive low-emission zone, which you can only enter with prior permission. Even then, parking in the city center is only possible in parking garages, which cost at least 16 euros per day.
Ghent environmental zone
You can check and register your vehicle for entry into the Ghent environmental zone on the City of Ghent website.
If you enter without this permit, you will be fined EUR 75. The access roads are monitored by cameras. If you accidentally enter without a permit, it is possible to request a permit retrospectively and use it to lodge an appeal, according to the website.
Summery Ghent
No matter where you look, you see fantastically preserved historic buildings. The city center is lined with restaurants, cafés, and bars with outdoor seating. Perfect for this summer weather! I don't have a fixed plan and explore the city as I please. To get a brief overview of the history, I start with a 40-minute boat tour. It costs 10 euros and is guided in French, Dutch, and English. There is also a handout in German for reference. It's definitely nice to learn about the history of a city, and from the boat you get a different perspective.
As already mentioned, countless restaurants and cafés line the streets. Take the time to enjoy the hustle and bustle and the beautiful facades of the city over an aperitif, coffee, or one of the many Belgian beers.
Oh yes, fries are a must, of course. For a snack, I recommend Frites Atelier. I had fries with parmesan, tomato powder, and basil mayonnaise. The basil gives them a fresh note, which makes them ideal in summer.
In the afternoon, I decide to visit the Count's Castle (Gravensteen). The admission price of 14 euros includes an audio guide, where you can choose between two options. I chose the funny option, but I don't think that was the best choice. I should have chosen the historical (serious) option. As an added bonus, you have a beautiful view over the rooftops of Ghent from the castle wall.
Note:
The ten-day Ghent Festivities take place in the second half of July. As a result, stages will begin to be set up throughout the old town a week in advance, further restricting access. If you are traveling to Ghent primarily to see the city, please take this into account when planning your trip.
Historic Bruges
Like Ghent, Bruges has a beautiful historic city center. I decide to take the train from Ghent to Bruges. On weekends, there is a 50% discount on tickets, so the round trip costs only €9.60 per person. The journey takes about 30 minutes and tickets can be easily purchased on the Belgian railway website (also available in English).
When I arrive in Bruges at around 9:30 a.m., I first enjoy breakfast at the Maro Coffee and Tea House. The service is sunny and cheerful, making for a wonderful start to the day, and the breakfast is delicious.
Now I set off into the city without a plan, enjoying the streets and alleys, which are still quite empty at this early hour, and admiring the beautiful facades of the houses. Eventually, I arrive at the Grote Markt, the central square in Bruges. Among other things, this is where the Provincial Palace is located. A former government building, it is now open to the public. It's well worth a visit.
When I leave the palace, the market square is already much busier. I continue on my way and pass Burgplatz with its beautiful town hall and courthouse. Somewhat hidden on the right-hand corner of the town hall is the entrance to the Holy Blood Basilica, which is not visible from the outside. It is worth taking a look inside. The basilica has a dome-like decorated wooden ceiling and the walls are completely covered with paintings.
To escape the ever-growing crowds, I decide to head north. Here, I walk along the small canals, which are called “Reien” in Bruges. And indeed, it is partly deserted and quiet, as I had hoped. Just for your information: I was there on a Sunday and don't know what it's like during the week.
Anyway, I enjoy the peace and quiet a little longer and treat myself to a small aperitif before plunging back into the hustle and bustle. Some of the alleys in the old town are really very crowded. Nevertheless, I treat myself to a Belgian waffle at Chez Albert – Gauffres – Waffles. They are supposed to be the best. Well, they are waffles...
Before I know it, it's half past four, and I decide to take the train back to Ghent shortly after five.
All in all, Bruges is also a very beautiful city and well worth a visit. Compared to Ghent, however, it is much more touristy and therefore more crowded. This is probably because many cruise ships dock in the nearby port of Zeebrugge. In both cases, however, comfortable shoes are a must, as you will only be walking on cobblestones.
Tip: North Sea beaches
Between Ostend and Blankenberge, there are beautiful sandy beaches on the North Sea. They can be reached by car in about 45 minutes from Ghent and about 25 minutes from Bruges. On hot days, this is a wonderful change from walking on cobblestones.
