How to Plan Your Private Historical Tour: The Highlights of Ghent

Ghent, a Belgian city with a rich history, is a must-visit for anyone interested in architecture, art, and literature. A private historical tour is a great way to explore the city and its hidden gems. In this guide, we will take you through everything you need to know to plan your private historical tour of The Highlights of Ghent.

Tour Overview

The Private Historical Tour of The Highlights of Ghent is a guided walking tour that lasts for approximately 2.5 hours. The tour is led by a professional local guide who will take you on a journey through Gent’s past and hidden gems.The tour starts at St. Michael’s Bridge, where you will learn about the city’s role in medieval trading. From there, you will transition into the city center at Graslei and Korenlei and explore the area that once functioned as the city’s port. You will also get to enjoy street art in the specified Werregarenstraat area.The tour offers multiple language options, so you can choose the one that suits you the most. You will also have the chance to enjoy the tour in private, as it is restricted to your group.

What’s Included

All fees and taxes are included in the tour price, along with a local and professional guide to show you around the city. However, the cost of food and drinks is not included unless it is specifically mentioned in the tour description.

Meeting and Pickup

The meeting point for the tour is Sint-Michielsbrug, which is located on St. Michael’s Bridge Sint-Michielshelling 9000 Gent, Belgium. Look for the red umbrella in front of Hostel Uppelink to identify the meeting spot. The tour ends in front of the Belfry of Ghent located on Sint-Baafsplein 9000 Gent, Belgium.

How to Book the Tour

Booking the tour is easy and hassle-free. Simply follow the link book the tour here. Make sure to select the date and time that suits you the most.

What to Expect on the Tour

On the tour, you will get to explore the rich heritage and history of Ghent with a professional guide who will take you through the city’s past and hidden gems.The tour will start at St Michael’s Bridge, where your guide will give you an overview of Ghent’s rich history and its role in medieval trading. You will then transition into the city center at Graslei and Korenlei, where you will explore the area that once functioned as the city’s port. You will also enjoy the street art in the specified Werregarenstraat area.The tour will proceed to St. Bavo’s Cathedral, where you will get to witness the famous “Mystic Lamb” painting. From there, you will move on to the historic Castle of the Counts, which dates back to the 12th century.The tour will end at the Belfry of Ghent, where you will get to enjoy stunning views of the city. Your guide will give you all the necessary information about the Belfry’s history and importance to the city of Ghent.

Tips for the Tour

To make the most out of your Private Historical Tour of The Highlights of Ghent, here are some tips that you may find useful:

• Wear comfortable shoes as the tour involves a lot of walking.
• Bring sunscreen and water during warmer months.
• Ask your guide any questions you may have about the sites you visit.

Conclusion

A Private Historical Tour of The Highlights of Ghent is an excellent way to explore this beautiful Belgian city. With a professional local guide, you can discover the city’s rich heritage and hidden gems. Book your tour today and experience the best that Ghent has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions About the City of Ghent

If you’re planning to visit Ghent, Belgium, you may have several questions in your mind about the city. Ghent is a fascinating and vibrant place that offers something for everyone, from history buffs to foodies to nature lovers. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Ghent, along with their answers.

1. Where is Ghent?

Ghent is located in the northern region of Belgium, halfway between Brussels and Bruges. It is the capital city of the East Flanders province and sits at the confluence of two rivers, the Scheldt and the Leie.

2. What is the population of Ghent?

As of 2021, the population of Ghent is approximately 262,000 people. It is the second-largest city in the Flanders region and the third-largest city in Belgium after Brussels and Antwerp.

3. What is the weather like in Ghent?

Ghent experiences a temperate maritime climate, which means cool summers and mild, damp winters. The average temperature in Ghent ranges from 2°C (35°F) in winter to 23°C (74°F) in summer. The best time to visit Ghent is during the spring and fall seasons when the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists.

4. What are the main attractions of Ghent?

Ghent has a rich history and a vibrant culture, with many attractions to explore. Some of the most popular tourist destinations in Ghent include:

• The Gravensteen Castle: A medieval fortress that dates back to the 12th century
• The Ghent Altarpiece: A masterful 15th-century artwork by the Van Eyck brothers
• The Belfry of Ghent: A 14th-century tower with stunning views of the city
• The Saint Bavo’s Cathedral: A Gothic-style cathedral that houses several masterpieces of art
• The St. Nicholas’ Church: A stunning example of Gothic architecture in Ghent
• The Graslei and Korenlei: Historical quaysides along the Leie river that offer scenic views of the city

5. What is the cuisine of Ghent like?

Ghent is a foodie’s paradise, with a diverse range of local dishes and specialties. Here are some of the most popular foods you must try while in Ghent:

• Stoverij: A hearty beef stew served with fries
• Waterzooi: A creamy chicken, fish, or vegetable soup made with cream and herbs
• Neuzekes: Sweet candy made from guava and raspberry jelly, dusted with powdered sugar
• Gentse Gandaham: A dry-cured ham that is specific to Ghent
• Cuberdons: A cone-shaped candy with a raspberry flavor
• Belgian Waffles: A dessert made of dough cooked in specialized irons and then topped with whipped cream, fruits, Nutella, or chocolate sauce.

6. What is the best way to get around in Ghent?

Ghent is a compact city, and many of its attractions are located within walking distance of each other. However, if you want to explore further or more quickly, you can use other modes of transportation such as:

• Buses and Trams: Ghent has an excellent public transport system that connects all parts of the city
• Bicycles: Ghent is a bike-friendly city, and you can find several rental options available throughout the city
• Taxis: Taxis are available throughout the city but can be expensive
• Boats: Ghent is a river-based city, and you can take boat tours along the canals to explore the city’s sights from a different perspective

7. Is Ghent a safe city to visit?

Ghent is a generally safe city to visit, with a low crime rate. However, like any other big city, it’s best to take precautions while traveling.

8. What is the best time to visit Ghent?

The best time to visit Ghent is during the spring or fall seasons when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller. Summer is also an excellent time to visit because of the many festivals and events that take place during that time.

9. What are the festivals and events in Ghent?

Ghent is a city of festivals, and you can find something happening throughout the year. Here are some of the most famous events in Ghent:

• Gentse Feesten: A ten-day festival in July that features music, theater, art, and food
• Gent Jazz Festival: A summer music festival that attracts jazz lovers from all over Europe
• Christmas Market: A festive market that takes place in December and features crafts, food, and drinks
• Light Festival: A biennial event that takes place in February and features light installations and art throughout the city

10. What is the currency of Ghent?

The currency used in Ghent is the Euro (€). You can exchange your currency at one of the many banks or currency exchange booths located throughout the city, or you can withdraw money from ATMs using your debit or credit card.

Conclusion

Ghent is a fascinating city that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or nature, Ghent has it all. By answering these frequently asked questions about Ghent, we hope to have provided you with some useful information that will make your trip more enjoyable.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Ghent

Ghent, the capital city of East Flanders in Belgium, is a beautiful and historic city that’s perfect for tourists who love to explore new destinations. With amazing architecture, a vibrant culture, rich history, and delicious food, there is no shortage of things to do and see in Ghent. Here is our guide on how to spend your time in Ghent.

Visit Historic Landmarks

Ghent is home to many historic landmarks that are a must-visit for anyone traveling to this city. Perhaps the most famous landmark of Ghent is the Gravensteen, a medieval castle that dates back to the 12th century. With its stunning architecture and well-preserved interiors, a visit to Gravensteen will transport you back in time.Another popular historic landmark in Ghent is Saint Bavo Cathedral. With its Gothic architecture and the famous painting ‘Adoration of the Mystic Lamb’ by the van Eyck brothers, Saint Bavo Cathedral is a must-visit attraction.

Explore the City’s Beautiful Architecture

One of the most striking features of Ghent is its beautiful architecture, which spans from the medieval period to contemporary times. A walking tour of the city’s beautiful streets and squares will allow you to admire the unique mix of architectural styles on display.The Korenmarkt, for example, is a medieval square with a beautiful Gothic-style bell tower in the center. Also, the iconic Saint Nicholas church, built-in 1200, has a beautiful Romanesque style that’s sure to impress.

Sample Local Cuisine

Ghent is known for its delicious local cuisine, which is a mix of traditional Flemish dishes and modern international cuisine. Some of the must-try local foods include:

• Stoverij, a beef stew simmered in beer and served with French fries
• Waterzooi, a creamy chicken or fish stew that is a Ghent speciality
• Ganda Ham, a local delicacy of cured ham that’s a must-try for meat lovers
• Belgian Waffles, soft and fluffy waffles that are a popular dessert in Ghent

You can sample these foods and more at local restaurants and cafes in the city.

Take a Boat Tour

A relaxing way to explore Ghent is by taking a boat tour along its canals. This boat tour will take you through the city’s beautiful medieval architecture and historic landmarks while providing you with insights into the city’s rich history and culture by tour guides.

Attend a Festival

Ghent hosts many festivals throughout the year, making it a vibrant city to visit any time of the year. Some of the most popular festivals include:

• Ghent Light Festival: Held every three years, this festival lights up the city with a stunning display of light installations and projections on historic buildings and landmarks
• Ghent Jazz Festival: This annual festival attracts jazz lovers from all over the world, and features local and international jazz musicians.
• Ghent Festival: Held every July, this 10-day festival is one of the largest cultural events in Europe, featuring live music, street performances, and delicious food.

Visit Museums and Art Galleries

Ghent is home to many museums and galleries that showcase the city’s rich history and culture. Some of the must-visit museums and galleries include:

• Ghent City Museum (STAM): This museum provides insight into Ghent’s rich history and culture from the Middle Ages to the present day.
• Museum of Fine Arts (MSK): This museum houses an impressive collection of Flemish art from the Middle Ages to modern times, along with international art collections.
• Museum Dr. Guislain: This museum explores the history of psychiatry through exhibits, art installations, and photographs.

Final Thoughts

Ghent is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful, historic, and vibrant cities in Europe, and there is no shortage of things to do and see here. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, food, or culture, Ghent has something for everyone. We hope this guide will help you make the most of your time in Ghent, and see all the wonders the city has to offer.