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Activity Ghent, Belgium

Private Historical Tour: History and Highlights of Ghent

4.9 (152 reviews) 2 hours Free cancellation Private tour
Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Private Historical Tour: History and Highlights of Ghent

About this activity

Join our Private Historical Tour: The Best 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!

Private and Luxury Private Sightseeing Tours Cultural Tours Historical Tours Walking Tours Culture Excellent Quality Top Product

At a glance

Duration
2 hours
Confirmation
Instant confirmation
Ticket
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group
Your group only
People per booking
1–15
Guide
English, French, Turkish, Dutch, Spanish
Operated by
Gent Free Walking Tour

Ages: Infants (0–4 years) · Children (5–12 years) · Adults (13–99 years)

What is included

Included

  • Included: Hotel pick up and drop off
  • Included: Local guide
  • Included: Professional guide
  • Included: All Fees and Taxes
  • Included: Private Tour

Not included

  • Not included: Food and drinks, unless specified

Itinerary

  1. St Michael's Bridge

    15 min

    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 min

    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

    Passing by

    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 min

    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 min

    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 min

    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. Huis van Alijn

    10 min

    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 min

    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. Stop 9

    10 min

    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 min

    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

    10 min

    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 min

    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. Esglesia de Sant Nicolau

    10 min

    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!

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

  • We meet in front of Hostel Uppelink on the St Michael's Bridge. Look for the red umbrella!

End point

  • The tour ends in front of the Belfry of Ghent.

Using your ticket

We will meet you in front of the Hostel Upperlink, look out for the red umbrella!

If you have any questions or if you want to make a booking with more than 15 people, please contact us via our website!

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel You get back
At least one day before 100%
Less than a day before 0%

Good to know

  • Wheelchair accessible

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

  • Service animals allowed

  • Public transportation options are available nearby

  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

  • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Options

  • English Tour

  • Spanish Tour

  • Dutch Tour

  • French Tour

Traveller ratings

4.9 out of 5 · 152 reviews
5
93%
4
3%
3
3%
2
1%
1
1%

Activities, prices and reviews are from Viator. Booking and payment happen on Viator; Vacantier may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Private Historical Tour: History and Highlights of Ghent

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