Introduction: The Canal-Lined Route
The road between Bruges and Ghent follows the historic Bruges-Ghent canal, constructed in the 13th century to facilitate trade between these two powerful medieval cities. This 45-kilometer waterway, visible from much of the E40 highway, once carried wool, cloth, and grain on barges pulled by horses along towpaths. Today, drivers on the E40 or N9 parallel this same route, passing through a landscape shaped by centuries of commerce. The journey takes about 50 minutes without stops, but the real value lies in the settlements and landscapes along the way. For those wondering if it's worth driving Bruges to Ghent rather than taking the train, the answer lies in the control to explore places like Damme, a planned town from 1180, or the Lys River valley around Deinze. This guide provides concrete details for planning your trip, including specific road names, driving times, and local spots. To help identify worthwhile detours, consider reading our article on how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.
A Detailed Three-Day Travel Plan
This Bruges to Ghent itinerary 3 days allows thorough exploration. Day 1: Start in Bruges. Visit the Groeningemuseum (Flemish art, open 9:30-17:00, €14) and take a canal boat tour (€12, departs from multiple docks). Drive to Damme in the late afternoon (10 minutes). Overnight in Damme at Hotel 't Oud Schaep (approx. €120/night). Day 2: Drive from Damme to Deinze via the E40 (30 minutes). Visit the Museum of Deinze and walk along the Lys. Have lunch at Brasserie 't Schipke on the river. In the afternoon, drive to Bellem (15 minutes) for the azalea gardens. Continue to Ghent (25 minutes). Check into your accommodation. Evening in Ghent: see the illuminated Gravensteen castle. Day 3: Full day in Ghent. Visit St. Bavo's Cathedral to see the Ghent Altarpiece (open 8:30-18:00, €12.50). Climb the Belfry of Ghent (€10). Take a boat tour of Ghent's canals (€9.50). This schedule balances driving with exploration, with total driving time around 2.5 hours over three days.
Recommended Places to Visit Along the Way
When considering things to do between Bruges and Ghent, several locations merit a detour. Damme, 6 kilometers east of Bruges via the N376, is a direct stop off the E40 at Exit 8. This town, founded by Count Philip of Alsace, retains a rectangular market square and 15th-century town hall. The Damme-Bruges canal walk starts here. Driving time from Bruges to Damme is 10 minutes. Aalter, accessible from E40 Exit 10, has the Castle of Aalter (Kasteel van Aalter), a 19th-century mansion with surrounding parkland open to the public. From Aalter, a 15-minute drive south on the N44 leads to Bellem, known for its azalea gardens at the Castle of Ooidonk (open April-October, admission €12). Deinze, on the Lys River, is another key stop. Take E40 Exit 13, then follow signs for the city center. The Museum of Deinze and the Lys Region (Museum van Deinze en de Leiestreek) houses regional art; open Tuesday-Sunday, 10:00-17:00, entry €8. The riverbank has walking paths. For a longer stop, the Gavere Castle ruins are 8 kilometers south of Deinze via the N43. The total drive from Bruges to Ghent with stops in Damme and Deinze adds about 2-3 hours to the trip.
Route Logistics and Driving Details
| Route Option | Primary Roads | Distance | Driving Time (No Stops) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Direct Highway | E40 (A10) | 48 km | ~50 minutes | Fastest route; toll-free; exits for Damme (Exit 8) and Aalter. |
| Scenic Alternative | N9, then N44 | 52 km | ~1 hour 15 minutes | Passes directly through town centers; more traffic lights. |
| Combined Route | E40 to Exit 13, then N466 | 50 km | ~1 hour | Good balance; access to Deinze and the Lys River area. |
For the best stops Bruges to Ghent, the scenic N9 offers immediate access to places like Sint-Kruis and Oostkamp, but adds significant time during peak hours (7:30-9:00 AM and 4:30-6:30 PM on weekdays). The E40 has rest areas at kilometer markers 12 (near Aalter) and 32 (near Deinze), both with fuel stations and basic facilities. Speed limits are 120 km/h on the E40, 70 km/h on the N9 in rural sections, and 50 km/h in towns. Parking in central Ghent costs approximately €2.50 per hour in zones P1 and P2; consider the 'P+R' (Park and Ride) at Sint-Pieters station (€5 for 24 hours) with a tram connection to the city center.
Continue Your Adventure
Frequently Asked Questions
How long to drive Bruges to Ghent?
The direct drive on the E40 highway is approximately 50 minutes for 48 kilometers without traffic or stops. With typical midday traffic, allow 60-70 minutes. The scenic N9 route takes about 1 hour 15 minutes.
Is it worth driving Bruges to Ghent?
Driving provides flexibility to visit intermediate locations like Damme, Aalter, or Deinze, which are not easily accessible by train. The train takes about 25 minutes but only connects city centers. If you wish to explore the region, driving is recommended.
What are the best stops Bruges to Ghent?
Key stops include Damme (medieval town, 10 minutes from Bruges), Aalter (castle park), Bellem (azalea gardens at Ooidonk Castle), and Deinze (Lys River and regional museum). Each adds 30-90 minutes to your trip depending on visit length.
What are things to do between Bruges and Ghent?
Activities include walking the Damme-Bruges canal path, visiting the Museum of Deinze, exploring the azalea gardens in Bellem, touring Castle of Aalter's grounds, and dining at riverside brasseries in Deinze. Driving the N9 offers views of the canal and farmland.
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