Essential Ghent: From Cathedrals to Castles
Hi, I’m Tom, your enthusiastic guide in beautiful Ghent! I’m 49 years young, proud dad of four, and have been working and living in many places around the world (Mumbai, Madrid, Los Angeles, Padova, ...) for many years. And now back in Ghent. And it has always been my true passion sharing stories and connecting with people. Between 1996 and 2000 I guided tourists through Ghent on a horse and carriage – and today I’m thrilled to be back, this time on foot, to show you the city’s hidden corners, vibrant history and charming anecdotes. With a mix of local knowledge, humor, and passion for my hometown, I’ll make sure you don’t just see Ghent, but truly experience it. Join me for a walk you won’t forget – let’s discover Ghent together! Lastly: I speak Dutch, English, Spanish, French and a bit of Italian. No problem to use these different languages during the tour.
Pickup
I will wait at the fountain. I will bring a grey umbrella with a yellow logo of Flanders. Easy ;-)
Description
Join me on a two-hour walking tour through the fascinating heart of Ghent!
We begin at the majestic St. Bavo’s Cathedral, where I will share the story of the world-famous Mystic Lamb altarpiece and the city’s rich religious heritage.
From there we continue to the Belfry, symbol of Ghent’s independence, and I will explain why this proud tower was so important for the citizens in the Middle Ages.
Our path leads us to the charming Kraanlei and Graslei, once the vibrant center of trade along the River Lys, where I’ll paint a picture of life in the bustling medieval harbor.
Next, we enter the world of knights and legends at the Gravensteen Castle, discovering tales of power, battles, and intrigue.
We then visit the Butchers’ Hall, a reminder of Ghent’s culinary traditions, before heading to the Town Hall, an architectural mix of Gothic and Renaissance styles reflecting the city’s complex history.
Finally, we return to St. Bavo’s Cathedral, completing a perfect loop that reveals Ghent’s most iconic landmarks, hidden stories, and the spirit of a city that blends medieval grandeur with modern vibrancy.