I'm going to visit Bruges and Ghent for 3 nights at the tail end of a longer trip. It will be in June 2025, my 18 year old daughter will be with me. We both like art, history, architecture and good food. A lot of nightlife isn't too important. If a restaurant/pub is open to 10 that would probably be the level of night excitement needed. I've already done Brussels, Antwerp and Leige on prior trips. I'm trying to decide if it would be better to stay in Bruges or Ghent, then visit the other. I'd prefer to not change hotels during that time, as we will have plenty of that earlier on the trip. Any opinions and input appreciated.
Posted by
Chicago
3280 posts
No need to change hotels. Pick one and visit the other. Either or will work. I’m a huge fan of Bruges, so that’s where I would stay. I found Bruges to be unlike any place I had visited before. I felt like I was in a fairytale. I was not a fan of Ghent, but many are. Pick whichever place appeals to you more.
Posted by
Wyckoff, NJ, USA
8022 posts
Your plan is good. There are around five unreserved trains an hour for this, but busy at rush hour and school hours. I have train-daytripped from Antwerp to each of these places. Note that the train station is about 1/2 - 3/4 mile from the "historic" part of town. There is a bus/tram ticket vending machine at the station. The walk is nice in good weather, but not so historic.
Do not overlook the art museums in Antwerp and Brussels. I'm not badmouthing Ghent or Bruges, but the masterpiece quantity is much higher in Brussels and Antwerp, big, gritty cities. I like to sleep in Antwerp.
Posted by
1000 posts
I was so charmed by both Bruges and Ghent. If you are staying 3 nights, I’d probably stay on Bruges and day visit Ghent. But, there is no wrong decision.
Posted by
Southeastern US
2653 posts
I would stay in Bruges. Don't miss the Groeninge Museum.
Posted by
San Diego, California
5776 posts
Bruges hands down. I've included my recent Trip Report, perhaps it can be helpful. We loved where we stayed in Bruges. And don't get me started on the chocolate.......
Have a great trip!
Posted by
Citizen of the World
2167 posts
Plenty to see in Bruges for several days including the Groeninge Museum and a sculpture by Michelangelo.
The entire city is like an open-air art museum.
Posted by
Wyckoff, NJ, USA
8022 posts
hey, kingaira, do you have anything to say about Liege? I've only stepped down from the train to look at the Calatrava station. I had imagined the city wasn't worth a visit. (?)