What You Will Do
Join our Private Historical Tour: The Highlights of Gent and discover the most emblematic monuments of our gorgeous city in the company of a knowledgeable and passionate guide. We take you on a journey through the legendary past of Ghent and give you lots of tips on where to go and what to do in the city today.
History and funny stories, legends and interesting facts, highlights and hidden gems — this tour has got everything to make your experience of Ghent authentic and exciting!
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Itinerary
Meeting Point
We meet in front of Hostel Uppelink on the St Michael's Bridge. Look for the red umbrella!
1
St Michael's Bridge
15 minutes
We start here with an introduction to the history of Ghent and the role the city played as a trading hub in medieval times. We also introduce you to the 3 towers of the Ghent skyline, which are best visible from this spot.
2
Graslei and Korenlei
10 minutes
At the Graslei, the beating heart of the historical city centre, we show you which buildings were involved in the trading activities when this area functioned as the city’s port.
3
Design Museum Gent
Here we explain why a specific aspect of the Design Museum very much symbolises the stubborn and rebellious mindset of the Gentenaars!
4
Het Groot Vleeshuis
10 minutes
With a view of the medieval covered Great Butchers’ Hall across the water, we tell you some darker facts about this majestic building.
5
Gravensteen
10 minutes
Unlike most castles, the medieval Castle of the Counts is located right the middle of the city and and is very well preserved. We will tell you all about its impressive past!
6
St. Veerleplein
10 minutes
The square in front of the castle is both known as the square of death as well as the square of life. You’ll find out why!
7
Het Huis van Alijn - The House of Alijn
10 minutes
The House of Alijn was a hospital and is the only remaining ‘god house’ in Ghent. We will tell you the unfortunate story of how it became a hospital.
8
Vrijdagmarkt
10 minutes
This illustrious square has played a prominent role in Ghent’s history, as well as the man whose statue is located in the middle. Our guide will share its fascinating history with you!
9
Werregarenstraat
10 minutes
As a way to keep our monumental buildings from being sprayed by graffiti, the city has designated a specific area for street artists to go wild. We’ll walk you through it!
10
Ghent Town Hall (Stadhuis)
5 minutes
To understand why our city hall looks a little bit ‘confused’, our guide will explain the most significant conflict in the history of Ghent.
11
St. Bavo's Cathedral (Sint-Baafskathedraal)
10 minutes
Our cathedral has a rich history and houses many art treasures, most notably the world-famous Ghent Altarpiece by the brothers Van Eyck. We’ll share some of this history with you.
12
Het Belfort van Gent
5 minutes
The Belfry is the people’s tower and reflects the stubbornness, power and independence of the city. As the former prison, its façade also tells the story of a bizarre legend that our guide will share with you.
13
Saint Nicholas Church
10 minutes
This gem from the early 12th century looks out over Korenmarkt and has St Nicholas, the protector of merchants and sailors, as its patron saint. The façade of this building shows us the legend of its patron saint: the perfect way to end this legendary tour!
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