Evening Tour of the Dark Side of Gent

The Evening Tour of the Dark Side of Gent offers a captivating journey through Ghent’s shadowy past, all for a remarkably affordable price of $3.46 per person. This 1 hour 45-minute experience is led by passionate local guides who share stories of murder, torture, and legendary villains that shaped the city’s history. Starting at Saint Michael’s Bridge, the tour takes you off the tourist trail to uncover hidden gems and lesser-known tales of Ghent’s medieval and renaissance eras.

Ideal for those interested in dark history, myths, and legends, this tour appeals to travelers eager to explore a different side of Ghent. The tour’s small group size ensures a more personal experience, and the volunteer guides, who work for tips, bring a genuine enthusiasm and storytelling flair. Just remember to bring cash for gratuities, as the fee only covers the booking platform. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with most participants able to join, and it ends in the lively Patershol area, known for cozy bars and restaurants.

Key Points

• Affordable price at just $3.46 per person for nearly two hours of dark history storytelling.
• Led by passionate volunteer guides who share engaging, humorous, and sometimes morbid tales.
• Stops include notable sites such as St Michael’s Bridge, Graslei and Korenlei, and the Castle of the Counts.
• The tour starts at Saint Michael’s Bridge and ends in the vibrant medieval quarter Patershol.
• Small group size (up to 35 travelers) ensures a personal experience.
• Includes all fees and taxes, with cash gratuities encouraged for guides.

Starting Point at Saint Michael’s Bridge

The tour begins at Saint Michael’s Bridge, an ideal vantage point that provides a panoramic view of Ghent’s skyline, including its iconic three towers. Here, the guide offers a brief overview of Ghent’s role as a medieval trading hub, setting the scene for the dark stories to come. The spot is easily accessible and marks the perfect entry into Ghent’s medieval past.

The starting point’s close proximity to public transportation makes it simple to reach, and the walk from the city center is straightforward. The free admission to this initial stop helps keep costs down while offering a strong historical context.

Exploring Ghent’s Medieval Harbor: Graslei and Korenlei

Next, the tour takes you to the lively Graslei and Korenlei, the heart of Ghent’s medieval harbor. This area was once a bustling center of international trade during Ghent’s heyday as an economic powerhouse. The guide explains the lucrative trading activities that contributed to the city’s wealth, alongside tales of merchant life and medieval commerce.

While the harbor’s picturesque views are stunning, the focus remains on the stories of power, wealth, and darker deeds that often accompanied prosperity. The 10-minute stop is lively but concise, offering a glimpse into Ghent’s trading past from a darker perspective.

The Legend of the Devils Tower and the Ghent Cathedral

On the bridge overlooking the impressive cathedral, the guide recounts the grisly story behind why the Ghent Cathedral is also called Devils Tower. This legend highlights the morbid side of religious history and the superstitions that once gripped the city. The story adds a layer of intrigue to this iconic Gothic structure, which still dominates Ghent’s skyline.

This stop combines historical fact with local legend, providing a vivid picture of the city’s complex relationship with faith, fear, and superstition. The 10-minute duration keeps the focus tight, leaving plenty of time for exploring other sites.

The Castle of the Counts: Medieval Defense and Power

The tour then moves to the Castle of the Counts, built in the 9th century by Count Baldwin. This fortress played a crucial role in protecting Ghent from Viking raids and was central to the city’s early development. The guide shares stories of sieges, political intrigue, and the castle’s evolution over the centuries.

Although much of the castle’s original structure no longer stands, the impressive ruins and historical significance remain compelling. The tour’s 10-minute stop offers insights into Ghent’s military history, with some imagination needed to picture its former grandeur.

Imagining the Princes Court

Next, the guide introduces the Princes Court, once a gigantic palace that symbolized royal power in Ghent. Although today only remnants remain, the guide’s storytelling vividly recreates the palace’s former splendor and its political importance in medieval times.

This stop encourages a bit of imagination and highlights the changing fortunes of Ghent’s rulers. The 10-minute segment is a fascinating glimpse into monarchical influence and the courtly life of medieval nobility.

The Rabot Sluice and Medieval Defense Tower

The Rabot Sluice features the only remaining tower of Ghent’s 14 km-long defensive wall, built during the Middle Ages to protect the city from invasions. The guide discusses medieval fortifications and the strategic importance of this defensive structure.

The 10-minute stop is straightforward but provides a clear link to Ghent’s military past. It’s an opportunity to appreciate the city’s efforts to defend itself amidst a turbulent historical landscape.

The Bridge of Imperial Delights and Charles V Sculptures

At the Keizer Karel V site, the tour visits the Bridge of Imperial Delights, flanked by sculptures depicting scenes from the life of Charles V. The guide explains the legendary stories behind these sculptures, emphasizing Ghent’s connection to European nobility and imperial history.

This stop combines art, legend, and history in a compact, 10-minute segment. It’s a highlight for those interested in medieval rulers and symbolic sculptures.

The Troubling Religious Wars and Calvinist Influence

The guide then covers the troubled history of Religious Wars and the impact of Calvinist rule on Ghent’s development. This darker chapter reflects the conflicts and upheavals that shaped the city’s social fabric.

A 10-minute discussion, this segment adds depth to the tour’s theme of villainous stories, showing how faith and power struggles influenced Ghent’s history.

The Pictorial Medieval Quarter of Patershol

The tour concludes in Patershol, Ghent’s medieval quarter, known for its cobblestone streets and historic buildings. Here, the guide narrates the social changes during the Industrial Revolution and how they contributed to the city’s revival.

This 10-minute stop offers a visual and storytelling connection to Ghent’s resilience. The ending location in a lively area with bars and restaurants provides a great opportunity to continue exploring or relax after the tour.

Logistics, Guides, and Overall Experience

The tour departs from Saint Michael’s Bridge and ends in Patershol, easily accessible via public transportation. With a group size capped at 35, the experience remains intimate and engaging. Guides are volunteers who rely on tips, so bringing cash for gratuities is recommended.

Most reviews highlight friendly, knowledgeable guides like Kenny, Sebastian, or Debra, who are praised for their storytelling skills, humor, and enthusiasm. The reviews consistently rate the tour 5/5, emphasizing its entertaining and informative nature. Some negatives mention disorganization or cancellations, so booking 14 days in advance is advised.

Final Thoughts on the Dark Side of Ghent Tour

This evening tour offers excellent value for its affordable price and rich storytelling. It suits history buffs, those interested in medieval legends, and anyone curious about Ghent’s darker stories. The short duration makes it easy to fit into a night out and provides a balanced mix of landmarks and legends.

While it’s not a deep dive into every historical detail, the engaging guides and unique focus on darker tales make it a compelling choice. The end in Patershol also encourages further exploration of Ghent’s vibrant, historic heart.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the stories appeal to a range of ages. The tour’s length and storytelling style make it suitable for families, especially those with older children interested in history and legends.

Do I need to bring anything?
Yes, bring cash for tips, as guides are volunteers. Dress comfortably for walking in the evening, and check the weather forecast as the tour is outdoors.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the start are non-refundable.

What is the guide’s role in the experience?
Guides are passionate volunteers who tell stories, share legends, and explain the history behind Ghent’s landmarks. They aim to make the experience both entertaining and educational.

How long in advance should I book?
Booking about 14 days in advance is recommended since the tour is popular and tends to fill up quickly.