Bruges and Ghent are two of Belgium's most compelling day-trip destinations from Brussels — 55 km and 56 km respectively. This guide covers FFGR Belgium's curated one-day and combined itineraries, timing logic, and vehicle selection for private chauffeur programmes from €680.
Brussels to Bruges is 55 kilometres on the E40 — approximately 55 minutes in a chauffeur vehicle. For a visitor with a limited Belgium window, a private day programme is the most efficient way to experience either city in depth.
**Bruges — The Preserved Medieval City**
FFGR Belgium's recommended Bruges day itinerary:
**8:30** — Brussels departure (residential or hotel) **9:30** — Bruges arrival. Vehicle at FFGR Belgium's designated position near the Burg **9:45–13:00** — Morning: Basilica of the Holy Blood, Burg Square, Groeningemuseum, Jan van Eyck Square **13:00–14:30** — Lunch at De Karmeliet (Michelin-starred, 48-hour reservation through FFGR Belgium concierge), Den Dyver, or a canal-side bistro **14:30–17:30** — Afternoon: Beguinage, Lake of Love, De Halve Maan brewery, The Chocolate Line atelier **17:30** — Bruges departure, Brussels arrival approximately 18:30
**Ghent — The Living Medieval City**
Ghent is less tourism-saturated than Bruges — a functioning university city of 270,000 with an Old Town that rivals Bruges in architectural quality. The Gravensteen, Saint Bavo's Cathedral with the Van Eyck Ghent Altarpiece, and the Graslei waterfront make a compelling afternoon programme.
**Combined Bruges & Ghent**
For clients with a full day (9 hours ground time): Bruges in the morning (departure 8:00, 3 hours), Ghent in the afternoon (45-minute transfer, 3 hours), Brussels return in the evening.
**Vehicle Recommendation**
Mercedes-Benz S-Class or Mercedes-Maybach S680 for two passengers with luggage. Rolls-Royce Cullinan for groups of 3–4.
Full-day Bruges programme from Brussels: from €680. Contact FFGR Belgium at +33 7 43 46 14 91.