Ghent stands out as a top spot for discovering medieval architecture, centuries-old streets, and lively city life. Unlike many other Belgian cities, Ghent’s compact size makes it perfect for walking tours, but its hidden stories and architectural marvels also shine through on bike rides and guided explorations. We love the Private Historical Tour: The Best of Ghent for its personalized approach and expert storytelling, and the Bicycle tour in historic Ghent for those wanting to cover more ground effortlessly. Whether you’re into medieval castles, artful street scenes, or local legends, Ghent’s tours offer a chance to truly understand this vibrant city.
If you want a deep dive into Ghent’s heritage and hidden corners with a private guide, or prefer to cycle through its historic streets, our list has options for every preference. For those short on time but eager to get a feel for the city’s story, the Historic Highlights, by a local guide offers a quick but insightful walk. And if you’re a chocolate lover, the Chocolate history workshop Ghent combines delicious treats with a taste of history.
1. Private Historical Tour: The Best of Ghent
At number one, this private guided tour offers an intimate experience of Ghent’s most iconic sites, led by a local expert. Spanning about 2 hours, it’s ideal for travelers who want a personalized touch, with a guide tailoring the experience to your interests. The tour kicks off at St Michael’s Bridge, where you’ll learn about Ghent’s medieval trading significance and see the city’s famous skyline with three towers. From there, it moves to Graslei and Korenlei, the bustling heart of the old port, revealing which buildings were pivotal during the city’s trading days.
Further stops include the Het Groot Vleeshuis, which hides darker tales behind its majestic facade, and the Gravensteen, a medieval castle right in the middle of town that defies the usual castle image by being so centrally located. The guide’s insights are complemented by rich storytelling, making history come alive. With 5-star ratings based on 90 reviews, guests frequently praise the guide’s knowledge and warm energy—”Camila is simply outstanding,” one review mentions. The private setup is perfect for couples, families, or small groups wanting a tailored experience.
Bottom line: This tour is best suited for travelers seeking a flexible, in-depth exploration with a personal touch, especially if you’re craving expert insights and a relaxed pace.
2. Ghent: Guided Historical Walking Tour
Number two on our list is the Ghent Guided Historical Walking Tour. Priced at just $2.36 per person, this budget-friendly option offers about 2 hours exploring the city’s most important landmarks. Led by a local guide, it covers legends, fun facts, and key sites, making it ideal for those who want a comprehensive but quick overview of Ghent’s medieval splendor.
The tour hits major highlights like the cathedral housing Van Eyck’s Lam Gods, the Kouter square, and the Hotel d’Hane Steenhuyse, a stately building from the 18th century. It’s a lively, engaging way to see the city with someone who knows all the stories behind its Gothic facades and historic streets. Reviews highlight the guide’s ability to make history fun and accessible, even for those with limited time. If you’re after a solid introduction to Ghent’s highlights, this tour delivers good value and solid storytelling.
Bottom line: This short tour is perfect for budget-conscious travelers or those who want to get a quick but rich sense of Ghent’s history without fuss.
3. Bicycle tour in historic Ghent
For those who want to see more in less time, the bicycle tour is a standout. At $52.25 for roughly 2.5 hours, it combines physical activity with cultural discovery. This small-group ride takes you through parks, historic sites, and neighborhoods that are less accessible on foot, such as St. Peter’s Abbey and the Vrijdagmarkt, the lively medieval square.
The tour’s highlight is cycling through Ghent’s lesser-known but equally fascinating corners, giving you a broader perspective of the city’s architecture and local life. Tim, the guide, gets praise for his knowledge and relaxed style, making the experience both educational and fun. One reviewer appreciated the stop at a brewery on an old industrial site, blending history with local flavor. The route’s flexibility allows you to cover more ground without tiring, making it ideal for active travelers or families.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect if you want a dynamic way to learn about Ghent’s history while enjoying the fresh air and scenic streets.
4. Historic Highlights, by a local guide
Number four is a walking tour that emphasizes local insights and engaging storytelling. Led by Jürgen, a passionate history professor, it lasts about 2 hours and covers notable sites like St. Bavo’s Cathedral and the Hotel d’Hane Steenhuyse. The tour starts at Agelandkaai, tracing Ghent’s early days around the Spanish Castle’s moat, then moves through Bisdomkaai to see where the city originated around the confluence of the Leie and Schelde rivers.
Jürgen’s expertise and enthusiasm elevate this experience, which feels more like a lively history lesson than just sightseeing. Reviewers mention how much they learned about Ghent’s buildings and their stories, with one saying it was “one of the highlights of our trip.” The tour provides a great balance of architecture, legends, and personal anecdotes, making it ideal for history lovers who want genuine depth.
Bottom line: If you’re interested in a detailed yet personable history with a knowledgeable guide, this tour offers excellent value.
5. Chocolate history workshop Ghent
Finally, for a sweet twist on history, the Chocolate history workshop blends culinary craft with historical storytelling. At $82 per person for about 1.5 hours, you’ll craft your own chocolate bar, recreate a 17th-century hot chocolate recipe, and taste artisanal bonbons. This experience offers a hands-on look at Belgium’s chocolate heritage, which has been a part of the culture for over 5,000 years.
The workshop is led by passionate chocolatiers who explain the history of chocolate, from ancient Mesoamerica to modern Belgian perfection. Guests rave about making their own chocolate and tasting historic recipes, creating a memorable, delicious experience. It’s perfect for sweet tooths, families, or anyone curious about Belgium’s sweet legacy. The inclusion of tasting the original 5000-year-old hot chocolate makes this both educational and indulgent.
Bottom line: If you want a fun, interactive experience that combines history and culinary delights, this workshop is a great choice.
How to Choose the Best Ghent Tour for You
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, time, and interests. For a personalized experience with in-depth stories, the Private Historical Tour excels — perfect for couples or families wanting a flexible schedule. If you’re on a budget but still want a solid overview, the guided walking tour offers great value and covers the essentials.
Active travelers or those wanting to see more ground will love the bicycle tour, which showcases both the well-known landmarks and local neighborhoods. For those seeking depth and local flavor, the Historic Highlights provides a thoroughly detailed and engaging experience. Finally, if food and fun are your priority, the Chocolate workshop combines history with delicious hands-on activities.
Booking early is advised, especially in peak seasons, to secure your spot. Think about what excites you most—be it castles, legends, biking, or chocolate—and pick the tour that matches your style.
Final Thoughts
Ghent’s array of history-focused tours means there’s something for every traveler. For a comprehensive, private experience, the top-rated Private Historical Tour is unmatched. If you prefer active exploration, the bicycle tour offers a lively way to see the city. And if you’re just passing through and want a quick yet meaningful overview, the guided walk hits the mark.
No matter which tour you choose, Ghent’s blend of medieval architecture, lively streets, and stories of past centuries promise a memorable experience. Early booking is recommended, especially during the busy seasons, so you can enjoy Ghent’s history without the stress. Happy exploring!