Historical Walking Tour: Legends of Gent

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At just $3.45 per person, this tour offers excellent value for discovering Ghent’s highlights.
• Rich, 2-Hour Experience: The approximately 2-hour walk covers more than a dozen significant sites.
• Highly Rated: With a 5.0 rating from 1,333 reviews and 98% recommended status, it’s a favorite among visitors.
• Insightful Guides: Guides like Valentina, Sophia, Hans, and Ben are praised for their knowledge, engaging storytelling, and friendly demeanor.
• Highlights and Landmarks: The tour visits St. Michael’s Bridge, Graslei, Gravensteen Castle, St. Bavo’s Cathedral, and more.
• Flexible Payment: The pay-what-you-want model at the end allows guests to decide the tour’s worth.

Discover Ghent’s Medieval Roots at St Michael’s Bridge

The tour begins at St Michael’s Bridge, an iconic spot offering a panoramic view of Ghent’s skyline, including its three historic towers visible from this point. Here, the guide introduces Ghent’s medieval trading significance and the role the city played as a bustling port. This initial stop sets the stage for the tour’s focus on Ghent’s vibrant history and architecture.

With 15 minutes allocated, visitors get a quick yet thorough overview of Ghent’s trading past, accompanied by stunning views of the skyline. The guide’s insights make it easy to visualize the medieval city life that once thrived here.

Exploring the Heart of Ghent at Graslei and Korenlei

Next, the walking tour takes visitors through Graslei and Korenlei, the lively heart of the old city center. These maritime streets were once the busiest trading areas during Ghent’s heyday. The guide points out historic buildings involved in trading activities, giving a glimpse into the city’s bustling port life centuries ago.

This stop lasts 10 minutes, and the lively waterside setting offers fantastic photo opportunities. The guide shares stories about the trading history of this area, making it a favorite for those interested in Ghent’s commercial past.

The Symbolic Rebellion at the Design Museum Gent

The tour then moves to Design Museum Gent, a building with a rebellious story reflected in its design. While the admission fee is not included, this stop captures the personality of Ghent’s locals—stubborn and rebellious. The guide explains how this museum embodies the city’s independent spirit.

Over 10 minutes, visitors learn about the design that symbolizes Ghent’s characteristic resilience, making this a meaningful cultural highlight in a short walk.

The Medieval Grandeur of Het Groot Vleeshuis

Across the water stands Het Groot Vleeshuis, a medieval covered butcher’s market. From the 10-minute stop, the guide reveals darker tales associated with this majestic building, adding layers to its historical significance. Its impressive architecture and history as a medieval marketplace make this a captivating visit, even from the outside, with fascinating stories about its past.

The Castle of the Counts at Gravensteen

A major highlight is the Gravensteen Castle, located centrally within the city. This well-preserved medieval fortress offers a rare glimpse into Ghent’s noble past. The guide discusses its impressive history, emphasizing its unique location in the heart of the city.

Spending 10 minutes here, visitors appreciate the imposing walls and learn about the castle’s role as a seat of power. Though the admission fee is not included, the exterior view and stories make this stop memorable.

The Square of Life and Death at St. Veerleplein

Fronting the castle is St. Veerleplein, a square rich with dual symbolism. Known as both the “square of death” and the “square of life,” the guide explains why this spot carries such contrasting stories.

This 10-minute stop offers insight into the local legends and the historical significance of the square, blending history with a touch of mystery.

The Only Remaining Hospital: Huis van Alijn

The Huis van Alijn is an old hospital building, now a museum. The guide recounts its story of transformation from a hospital to a cultural site. As the only remaining god house in Ghent, it stands as a testament to the city’s medical history.

During the 10-minute visit, visitors see the building’s architecture and get a brief account of its unfortunate past as a hospital, adding depth to Ghent’s historical fabric.

The Historic Market at Vrijdagmarkt

The Vrijdagmarkt square is renowned for its historical importance and its central statue. The guide shares stories about its role through different eras and highlights the fascinating history behind the statue.

In 10 minutes, visitors understand why this square remains a cultural hub, with stories of past markets, executions, and civic life that have shaped Ghent.

The Creative Street Werregarenstraat

Werregarenstraat is a unique alley designated for street art and graffiti, designed to protect Ghent’s monumental buildings. The guide walks visitors through the area, explaining how the city balances street art with heritage preservation.

This 10-minute stop showcases Ghent’s creative spirit and the efforts to keep the city vibrant without damaging its historic appearance.

The Iconic Ghent Town Hall (Stadhuis)

The Ghent Town Hall is notable for its architectural confusion, and the guide offers an explanation of Ghent’s most significant conflicts that influenced its design.

Spending 10 minutes here, visitors gain understanding of the historical disputes that shaped the building, making it an intriguing stop from both an art and history perspective.

The Art Treasure House: St. Bavo’s Cathedral

The tour’s next highlight is St. Bavo’s Cathedral, home to the famous Ghent Altarpiece by the Van Eyck brothers. The guide explores the cathedral’s artistic and religious history, emphasizing its importance in Ghent’s cultural landscape.

During 10 minutes, visitors appreciate the art treasures within and learn about the legendary paintings that draw art lovers from around the world.

The Belfry of Ghent: The People’s Tower

Het Belfort van Gent is a symbol of city independence and power. The guide shares the bizarre legend about its façade and discusses its history as a former prison.

The 10-minute stop reveals how this tower reflects Ghent’s stubbornness and resilience, making it a must-see landmark.

The Patron Saint’s Church: Saint Nicholas Church

The tour concludes at Saint Nicholas Church, dedicated to St. Nicholas, the protector of merchants and sailors. The guide highlights the legend on its façade, connecting the church to Ghent’s mercantile roots.

This final 10-minute stop offers a fitting ending by tying legend and history together with a look at Ghent’s seafaring and trade traditions.

Practical Details and Meeting Points

This 2-hour walking tour departs from Saint Michael’s Bridge and ends at Belfort van Ghent. The meeting point at Saint Michael’s Bridge offers easy access via public transportation, and the small group size (limited to 35 participants) ensures an engaging experience.

The tour includes all fees and taxes, with a pay-what-you-want model at the end. It is suitable for most travelers, with service animals allowed and confirmation provided immediately upon booking.

Final Impression of the Legends of Ghent Tour

This highly rated tour offers an affordable, detailed exploration of Ghent’s most iconic sites and stories. The knowledgeable guides like Valentina, Sophia, Hans, and Ben are praised for their storytelling ability and friendliness, making the experience both educational and entertaining.

The tour’s balance of historical facts, legends, and local tips gives a well-rounded overview of Ghent, suitable for first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive introduction. The pay-what-you-want aspect adds flexibility, making it accessible for budget-conscious travelers.

While some reviews mention large group sizes can diminish the experience, most note that the small group setting and expert guides compensate well. This tour is ideal for those interested in history, legends, and architecture, and eager for a friendly, engaging walk through Ghent’s storied past.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours.

What is the cost?
It costs $3.45 per person, with a pay-what-you-want policy at the end.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Saint Michael’s Bridge and ends at Belfort van Ghent.

Are there any included fees?
All fees and taxes are included; some stops like Design Museum Gent and St. Bavo’s Cathedral have separate admission costs.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. The tour is appropriate for a wide age range.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

This Legends of Ghent walking tour offers an engaging, affordable, and highly praised way to uncover the city’s history, legends, and stunning sights in just a couple of hours.