Free tour of the historic center of Ghent (in English or Dutch)
Hi! I am Barbara Vos and I live with my husband and cats in the beautiful city of Ghent. I have been a history teachter for fifteen years. If you are looking for the perfect guide to show you around the beautiful city of Ghent, look no further! As a resident of the city for the most part of my life and as a passionate explorer of its hidden gems, I am the ideal guide for your tour. I have spent years immersing myself in the city's culture, history, and cuisine, and I am eager to share my knowledge with visitors. Whether you want to explore the city's architectural marvels, stroll through its picturesque streets, or indulge in its world-renowned cuisine, I can help you discover the best that Ghent has to offer. I am well-versed in the city's transportation options, making it easy for you to get around and see as much as possible. I can also provide insider tips on the best times to visit certain attractions and the best routes to take, ensuring that you have a seamless and enjoyable experience.
Pickup
On the Sint-Michielsbrug, on the Graslei. I will carry a book about Ghent.
Description
If you're a tourist visiting Ghent, there are several hotspots in the historic center that you won't want to miss. Here is a suggested itinerary for exploring the city:
We start the tour at the Graslei, a picturesque quay located on the Leie River. This is a great place to get a feel for the city and take in the beautiful architecture.
From there, we can head to the nearby Korenmarkt, one of the busiest and most popular squares in Ghent. Here, you can grab a coffee and some breakfast (to go) at one of the many cafes or enjoy some people-watching.
After breakfast, we make our way to the Belfry, one of the most famous landmarks in the city. It is possible to climb to the top for stunning views over the city and listen to the carillon play music every hour.
Just a short walk from the Belfry is St. Bavo's Cathedral, home to several famous works of art, including "The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb" by the Van Eyck brothers. We can take some time to explore the cathedral and appreciate its stunning Gothic architecture.
From the cathedral, we can head to the Castle of the Counts, a medieval castle that played an important role in the city's history.
In conclusion, there is so much to see and do in Ghent's historic center, from exploring medieval castles, visiting museums, shopping... to taking boat tours on the canals. Whether you're interested in history, art, or just want to explore a charming European city, Ghent is a must-visit destination.
The itinerary can be altered due to wheather conditions.