Question 1

What are the must-see attractions in Ghent during a day trip?

Accepted Answer

During your 3.5-hour visit to Ghent, prioritize the magnificent St. Bavo's Cathedral to see the Van Eyck brothers' masterpiece, The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb altarpiece. Don't miss the medieval Gravensteen Castle the picturesque Graslei and Korenlei harbor area with its guild houses and the three-towered skyline featuring St. Nicholas Church the Belfry and St. Bavo's. A 40-minute canal boat tour offers a unique perspective of the city's historical center.

Question 2

How far is Ghent from Paris, and is the journey worth it?

Accepted Answer

Ghent is approximately 300 kilometers (186 miles) from Paris, with a driving time of about 3 hours each way. While ambitious as a day trip, the journey is worthwhile for experiencing one of Belgium's most beautiful and authentic medieval cities without the crowds of Bruges. Your private Daytrip driver handles the long drive through the picturesque countryside of northern France and Belgium, allowing you to relax during the journey.

Question 3

What's special about Ghent compared to other Belgian cities?

Accepted Answer

Ghent offers a unique blend of medieval architecture, vibrant university atmosphere, and authentic local culture less affected by tourism than Bruges. The city preserves its historical center while maintaining a living, working character. Ghent is known for its progressive environmental policies, with much of the center car-free, making it especially pleasant to explore on foot. The UNESCO-protected belfry, medieval harbor, and three iconic towers create a skyline often called the medieval Manhattan.

Question 4

What are the best Belgian foods to try during my visit to Ghent?

Accepted Answer

Within your 3.5-hour visit, try Ghent's specialties including waterzooi (creamy fish or chicken stew), stoverij (beef stewed in beer), and Gentse mustard (sweeter than typical mustards). For quick snacks, sample Belgian waffles, frites with mayonnaise, or cuberdon candies (cone-shaped raspberry-flavored sweets unique to Ghent). The city is also known for its local beers, particularly Gruut, brewed with herbs instead of hops, available at many canal-side cafes.

Question 5

When is the best time to visit Ghent?

Accepted Answer

While enjoyable year-round, Ghent is most pleasant from April through October when outdoor cafes are open and canal tours operate regularly. July's Gentse Feesten (Ghent Festival) transforms the city with one of Europe's largest cultural festivals featuring concerts, performances, and street food, though accommodation is scarce during this period. December brings charming Christmas markets. For fewer tourists and good weather, May, June, and September offer ideal conditions.

Question 6

Is Ghent's city center walkable within the time available?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Ghent's historic center is compact and pedestrian-friendly, making it perfectly suited for exploration during your 3.5-hour visit. Most major attractions lie within a 15-minute walking radius. The city's car-free center allows for easy navigation between sights without traffic concerns. Consider starting at St. Bavo's Cathedral, then making a loop to include the Castle, the three towers, and the medieval harbor area, perhaps finishing with a canal boat tour if time permits.

Question 7

What shopping opportunities are available in Ghent?

Accepted Answer

Ghent offers excellent shopping options that can be incorporated into your 3.5-hour visit. For Belgian chocolates, visit Yuzu or Van Hoorebeke for artisanal quality. The Vrijdagmarkt and surrounding streets feature independent boutiques for fashion and design. For souvenirs beyond typical tourist items, consider Ghent-made mustard, cuberdons (local candies), or products from local designers at the concept store WASBAR. The Kouter flower market (Sunday mornings) provides a colorful local experience.

Question 8

How do day trips with Daytrip work?

Accepted Answer

Day trips offer travelers private round-trip transportation to popular sightseeing locations. One of our professional drivers will pick you up in a luxurious, climate-controlled car, take you to the site of interest, and wait for you while you explore before driving you back to your hotel.

Question 9

Will I have to wait around for the driver to return?

Accepted Answer

Your Daytrip driver will wait for you nearby for the duration of your exploration, meaning you’ll never have to wait for your return trip transportation to arrive. Your comfort and convenience are our top priorities, and we aim to close out your day trip with a return on your schedule.

Question 10

Can I customize the pickup and drop-off times?

Accepted Answer

Yes! You’re free to choose the pickup and drop-off times that work best for you. However, the time spent at the destination is fixed and cannot be changed.

Question 11

Are entrance tickets and tours included in the price?

Accepted Answer

The price of a day trip does not include any entrance tickets, guided tours, or meals you may partake in at your destination. The price covers round-trip transportation in a luxury vehicle with a professional driver who can provide local insights en route.

Question 12

How long will I have to explore?

Accepted Answer

Each sightseeing stop has a recommended duration that includes plenty of time to explore. However, it is possible to customize the time spent at each sightseeing stop at a later stage in the booking process to best fit your unique schedule.

Question 13

If my plans change, is the booking flexible?

Accepted Answer

Day trip bookings can be canceled up to 24 hours before your trip for a full refund, no strings attached. While the destination and stops are predetermined, it is possible to change your pick-up point, whether it is at your hotel or some other location within the city.

Question 14

Can I take a large group?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Day trips are fully customizable to suit the needs of any private group. From solo travelers to large families with children and even corporate groups, we are ready to create a bespoke itinerary that accommodates parties of all sizes. The price is dependent on the number of vehicles required to serve your group, and we also provide child seats.

Question 15

Will my driver speak English?

Accepted Answer

Your friendly, professional, local driver will speak English. Our drivers are happy to provide any local insight they can on the way to your destination and may be able to answer questions and provide tips for the best possible experience on your day trip.

Question 16

Can I request children’s car seats for the journey?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we provide car seats for children of all ages, which meet stringent safety standards and local legal requirements. You can even bring your own car seat. We also have handicapped-accessible vehicles available for a wide range of needs for our passengers. When booking your day trip, please specify the accommodations you will need.

Question 17

Can I pay securely online?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Daytrip offers flexible payment options. We accept Google Pay, Apple Pay, and Ali Pay. You also can pay securely online with any major credit card, such as Visa, Mastercard, or American Express.

Question 18

How do I book?

Accepted Answer

Booking your day trip is as easy as our one-way and return trips! On the landing page of the day trip you’d like to take, simply select the date, pick up time, and how many adults and children will be on the trip. On the second page, you’ll fill in personal details, including any special requests, disability accommodations, and children’s car seats you may need. We are flexible too! You can change your exact pick-up location (hotel address, etc) up to 24 hours before your day trip.

Paris to Ghent: Private day trip

Trajet privé avec un chauffeur local

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