Planning a Romantic Belgian Getaway? Valentine’s Deal: Save £50!!!
Did you know that Bruges and Ghent are two of the most common comparisons? Belgium also has some of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Both places have a lot of mediaeval history, beautiful buildings, canals, and great food, but each one offers a different kind of trip.
This Bruges vs Ghent travel guide will help you choose which Belgian city is best for your travel style in 2026. Whether you want to go on a romantic getaway, a cultural holiday, or a relaxing European city break, this Bruges vs Ghent travel guide is here to answer your questions. So let’s dive in to see how you can visit Belgium to explore the travel guide and how you must apply for a Belgium tourist visa from London UK to visit.
| Features | Bruges | Ghent |
| Overall Vibe | A fairy tale & romance | Lively & authentic |
| Best for | Couples, first-time visitors | Culture lovers, longer stays |
| Crowds | High, especially daytime | Moderate |
| Nightlife | Quiet & relaxed | Energetic & youthful |
| Budget | Slightly higher | More budget-friendly |
Note: This comparison between the Bruges vs. Ghent travel guide will help you decide what to expect from each city.
*We will confirm you through email when the appointment will be fixed.
It feels like stepping into a painting from the Middle Ages when you visit Bruges. The area has an almost magical charm thanks to its Gothic churches, cobblestone streets, winding canals, and old market squares. Bruges is popular for several reasons; some are as follows:
However, this Bruges vs Ghent travel guide can feel crowded during peak hours, especially with day-trippers.
Ghent is known for its medieval beauty and contemporary pulse. It feels like a true Belgian city with students, residents, and a scenic cultural scene. It also has castles, cathedrals, and canals like Bruges.
Ghent is ideal for:
This city is also known as “Venice of the North” and is famous for being one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe. The cobblestone streets, winding canals, Gothic churches, and the Belfry Tower make the city feel like a real-life fairy tale. You can see the whole city from historic towers and beautiful canal bridges from every angle with your Belgium visa appointment London.
Highlights:
This Bruges vs Ghent travel guide has a long history, but it feels more like a city that people have lived in for a long time, with a mix of old and new. The medieval core of Ghent is still fascinating, especially around Gravensteen Castle and St Bavo’s Cathedral. But the streets of the city are full of modern life, with students, local cafés, street art, and lively neighbourhoods that bring history to life in a new way.
Highlights:
Note: Most attractions are close together, making Bruges perfect for a brief visit. Therefore, this Bruges vs Ghent travel guide has a variety of attractions to enjoy.
Top Things to Do in Ghent in 2026:
Note: Ghent offers more variety if you plan to stay several days, as it offers the chance to see some of the best things to do in Ghent and enjoy them. Therefore, to explore the things, you must fill out the Belgium Schengen visa application UK.
Bruges is known for classic Belgian cuisine:
The experience is often more romantic but slightly tourist-priced.
Ghent is known for its delicious food scene, and travelers visit to experience the same; some are as follows:
Ghent is also known as one of Europe’s most vegetarian-friendly cities.
Verdict:
While Bruges excels in tradition, Ghent excels in variety and innovation.
Budget is often a big factor in travel. Bruges is a pleasant place to stay for a short time because many of the main attractions are free and easy to travel to on foot, and food and lodging are usually reasonably priced.
Ghent may be a little pricier than other places because it has more options for entertainment and dining.
Ghent is usually cheaper, especially for longer stays.
You can easily get to Bruges and Ghent from Brussels by train, which makes them excellent places to visit for a day. Let’s talk about how easy it is to get around and the different ways to get there. Some of these are:
Important: Ghent has excellent public transport, but Bruges is smaller and easier to get around on foot. Ghent has buses and trams, which make getting around easy. Bruges is a wonderful place to see things. Therefore, to enjoy the travel guide, it is necessary for you to get your Belgium tourist visa from London UK, right away!
The best time to visit the cities depends on several factors, including traveler preferences. But it is important to remember the weather conditions between the two; a few are as follows:
Here is the final verdict for you to decide to choose between the two
Choose Bruges if you like:
Choose Ghent if you prefer:
Best Option: If time allows, it is recommended to visit both, as they complement each other perfectly and are easy to combine in one trip.
This travel guide for Bruges and Ghent shows that there is no right or wrong choice, only different experiences. Bruges is beautiful and romantic all the time, while Ghent has culture, energy, and authenticity.
If you’re coming from the UK, make sure to plan and get your Belgium visa appointment from London. This will make your trip in 2026 go smoothly and without stress.
Bruges is easier and more visually striking, making it ideal for first-timers.
Yes, they are easily combined, and they have favourable train connections.
Ghent is generally more affordable than Bruges.
One of the most romantic cities in Europe is Bruges.
The nightlife scene is much more active in Ghent.
Here is the list of the required documents to meet the Belgium Schengen visa requirements UK; some are as follows:
– Belgium Visa Application Form
– Financial statements
– Valid passport
– Two recent photographs
– UK eVisa/share code (BRP)
– Accommodation Proofs
– Travel itinerary
– Cover letter