What attractions does Ghent have to offer?
The capital of East Flanders impresses with its mediaeval architecture and picturesque views. It is the ideal place for those following in the footsteps of UNESCO World Heritage sites – the mediaeval centre of Ghent and the two abbeys that constituted the beginning of the city’s existence were added to this famous list in 2002. In Ghent, mediaeval architecture mixes with modern one, and this vibrant city hides many, often dark, secrets. Dreaming of a trip to Ghent? Explore its finest attractions by joining our tour!
Ghent – a trip you won’t forget!
Ghent is sure to delight any lover of architecture and religious buildings. One of the symbols of the city is the Cathedral of St. Bavo. Inside, there are many valuable works of art, including the ‘Ghent Altarpiece (Adoration of the Mystic Lamb)’ by Hubert and Jan van Eyck or ‘St. Bavon arrives at the Ghent Monastery’ by Rubens. Also worth a visit is the Church of St Nicholas, dating from the 13th century and an excellent example of Scaldic Gothic (a cross between the Romanesque and Gothic styles).
While visiting Ghent make sure to see the majestic Gravensteen Castle . There was probably already a wooden castle by the river Leie in the 9th century, but the stone fortress was not built until the late 12th century. Philip of Alsace is considered to be the builder of the Castle, and in its museum you can see, among other things, exhibitions of weapons and torture instruments. The best vantage point in the city, on the other hand, is the 95-metre-high Het Belfort Tower, also known as the “dragon tower”, once used as a watchtower. Not far from it is the Ghent Town Hall (Stadhuis), whose construction began in 1518. In 1576, the Ghent Pacification was signed here, which for a time united southern and northern Flanders against the Habsburgs.
For those who are keen on beautiful views, we recommend going to St. Michael’s Bridge, from where you can enjoy a breathtaking panorama of Ghent. Located over the River Leie, the bridge connects the Korenlei and Graslei streets. St Michael’s Church, built in the late Gothic style, is located right next to it and is also worth a visit. A canal cruise is also a good idea for exploring Ghent. The cruise takes about 40 minutes and allows you to see the Old Town from a completely different perspective.
Free walking tour – Ghent with a local guide!
Are you dreaming of visiting Ghent but don’t know where to start exploring? Take a free walking tour with Walkative! and discover Ghent with a professional, local guide! Wondering how much such a free tour costs? It’s all up to you! There is no predetermined price, it is the tourist who prices the commitment and work of the guide. A free walking tour of Ghent is an ideal option for individual tourists, couples, families and small groups of friends. When booking a walking tour on the Walkative! website you can be sure that your guide will show you around Ghent’s most interesting places and tell you stories you can’t find in guidebooks. With us you will also visit other Belgian cities such as Brussels, Bruges or Antwerp.