Ghent: Historical Walking Tour with Legends & Castle

Summary

Walk Ghent’s old streets hear local legends see the castle

You’ll walk through Ghent’s medieval heart with a local guide, hearing quirky legends at Graslei, seeing Gravensteen Castle up close, pausing at St. Bavo’s Cathedral, and wandering past vibrant street art. Expect laughter, unexpected silences, and stories that linger long after you leave those cobbled lanes behind.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I signed up for this historical walking tour of Ghent mostly because I’d heard about the castle in the middle of town — but it was the stories that really stuck with me. Our guide, Pieter, met us by St. Nicholas’ Church (he waved his umbrella like it was a flag), and right away he started tossing out little facts about why Gentenaars are so stubborn. It wasn’t stiff or rehearsed — more like listening to a friend who grew up here, especially when he joked about the “confused” city hall and how even the buildings can’t agree on anything.

The weather kept shifting — sun one minute, drizzle the next — but honestly, it made the stone buildings look even older. We wandered along Graslei, where you could almost smell bread from somewhere nearby and hear bikes rattling over cobbles. Pieter pointed out which old guild houses were once packed with merchants and sailors, then took us past the Design Museum (I never thought a museum could be described as rebellious, but apparently in Ghent everything can). He made us laugh with a story about a statue in one square — I won’t spoil it — and then got quiet when talking about the Butchers’ Hall across the water. That silence actually hit me harder than any fact.

The highlight for me? Standing outside Gravensteen Castle while Pieter explained how it ended up smack in the center of town. Kids were running around pretending to be knights while we learned about real ones who probably weren’t as charming. The square in front is called both the square of death and life; I’m still thinking about that odd mix. Oh, and there’s an alley covered in wild street art — apparently Ghent’s way of keeping graffiti off historic walls. Smart move.

By the time we reached St. Bavo's Cathedral and heard about the Van Eyck altarpiece (which I’d only seen in textbooks), my feet were tired but my brain was buzzing with half-remembered legends and Pieter’s offhand jokes. If you’re after a day trip in Ghent that feels like wandering with a local who genuinely cares — plus all fees included and no weird surprises — this historical walking tour is worth your time. Just bring some cash for tips; these guides do it for love more than anything else.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Ghent's historical highlights

• Introduction to Ghent's history
• View the 3 towers of Ghent
• Visit Graslei trading buildings
• Learn about Design Museum symbolism
• See Great Butchers’ Hall
• Explore Castle of the Counts
• Discover the square of death and life
• Visit House of Alijn hospital
• Learn history at illustrious square
• Walk through designated street art area
• Understand Ghent Town Hall conflict
• Visit St. Bavo's Cathedral
• See Belfry and Cloth Hall
• End at St. Nicholas’ Church

Top questions

How long is the historical walking tour in Ghent?

The exact duration isn’t listed but expect a relaxed pace covering major sites across central Ghent.

Does this tour include entry to Gravensteen Castle?

No entry inside; you’ll learn its history from outside during the walk.

Is there hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup; you meet your guide at St. Nicholas’ Church in central Ghent.

Are tips for guides included in the booking fee?

No, tips aren’t included—guides work for tips so bring cash to thank them directly.

Is this historical walking tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas are wheelchair accessible including surfaces along the route.

Can I bring children or strollers on this tour?

Yes, infants and small children can join—the route is stroller-friendly.

What languages are spoken by guides?

The main language is English; check availability if you need another language.

Does this day trip cover all major landmarks in Ghent?

You’ll see highlights like Graslei, Gravensteen Castle (outside), Town Hall, St. Bavo’s Cathedral, Belfry & more.

What’s included

Your day includes all fees and taxes for a relaxed stroll through central Ghent with a knowledgeable local guide—no extra charges or hidden costs—plus plenty of stories along each stop before you finish near St Nicholas’ Church ready to explore more on your own or grab lunch nearby.