Ghent: Private Walking Tour with a Local

Travelers looking to go beyond the typical sightseeing route in Ghent will find this private walking tour a breath of fresh air. Designed for those who crave personalized experiences, this tour connects you with a passionate local guide who tailors each step around your interests — whether you want to uncover hidden corners or hear personal stories that bring the city to life.

What we love about this experience is its flexibility, the genuine connection with guides, and the chance to discover secret spots that most travelers miss. You’ll get local tips, learn about Ghent’s authentic culture, and enjoy a more relaxed, engaging way to explore. The only consideration? Since it’s a walking tour without transportation included, you’ll want to wear comfortable shoes and be ready to stroll.

This experience is perfect for first-timers eager for orientation, curious travelers seeking local flavor, or anyone who prefers conversations over scripted facts. If you’re after a genuine connection with Ghent, this tour offers a memorable and tailored introduction to the city.

Contents show

Key Points

Customized experience: No fixed route, guided entirely by your interests.
Authentic local insights: Discover hidden gems, personal stories, and secrets.
Flexible scheduling: Request your preferred start time for convenience.
Genuine connection: No large groups or scripted tours — just you and your guide.
Practical info: Includes a local guide and personalized walking experience; extras like entrance fees are not included.
Ideal for all: Suitable for first-time visitors, those seeking authentic spots, and conversational explorers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why Choose a Private Tour in Ghent?

Ghent is a city bursting with character, from its medieval architecture to lively neighborhoods. While many visitors flock to well-known landmarks like Gravensteen Castle or St. Bavo’s Cathedral, this private tour emphasizes discovering lesser-known spots and local stories that bring the city to life in a more personal way.

A significant advantage of booking a private guide is the ability to tailor the walk to your interests. Whether you’re into street art, food, history, or just exploring neighborhoods where locals hang out, your guide—like Francis or Sofie, praised as friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to share—will make sure you get the most out of your visit.

Pricing at around $65 per person provides excellent value for a fully customized experience. Considering the personalized approach, flexible timing, and the depth of local knowledge, this tour offers a high-quality, authentic introduction to Ghent that’s hard to match with larger, more rigid tours.

Into exploring Ghent on foot? Check out these other walking experiences we've looked at

What to Expect from the Tour

This private walking experience is designed to be unscripted and shaped entirely around your preferences. Upon booking, you can specify a preferred start time, and your guide will meet you at a convenient location—often the main train station, making arrival straightforward.

Once you’re out and about, your guide will lead you through Ghent’s streets, sharing stories and pointing out some of the city’s hidden corners. Recent reviews highlight how guides like Caio, for instance, go above and beyond, communicating clearly and ensuring they match the walk to your pace and curiosity.

You might stumble across a hidden courtyard café beloved by locals, explore neighborhoods full of street art, or learn about Ghent’s architectural evolution through personal anecdotes. It’s a laid-back experience where questions are encouraged, and the conversation flows naturally.

Example Itinerary Elements

Hidden courtyards: Discover charming spots off the beaten path, often with a local’s favorite café tucked inside.
Street art and culture: Explore lively neighborhoods adorned with murals and learn about local artistic expressions.
Personal stories: Guides share anecdotes that animate the city’s historical and cultural fabric, making it more relatable.
Local tips: Get recommendations on where to eat, shop, or relax, based on your interests.

Since entrance fees are not included and transportation isn’t part of the package, you’ll want to plan your day accordingly. If you have specific attractions in mind, you can request to include them, though entrance costs will be extra.

The Value of a Guided Personal Connection

Many travelers appreciate the ability to ask questions and have a guide adapt on the fly. As one recent reviewer put it, “It felt like hanging out with someone who actually lives here, not being dragged around on a tour.” That’s the essence of this experience—a genuine, intimate look at Ghent beyond guidebooks.

Guides like Sofie and Francis have been praised for their amiability, competence, and storytelling skills. They’re attentive to your pace and interests, making the walk both educational and enjoyable. Several reviews mention how well-prepared and communicative guides are, often reaching out beforehand to customize the experience.

More Great Tours Nearby

Highlighted Unique Aspects

No fixed route: You set the tone, interests, and pace.
Personalized storytelling: Local guides share insights that you won’t find in standard tours.
Local tips and secrets: Discover the neighborhoods, eateries, and shops loved by insiders.
Flexibility: Request specific times or places you’d like to explore.

Prefer keeping things personal? Here are more private experiences we've reviewed in Ghent

Practical Details and Tips

The tour costs about $65 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the tailored approach and local expertise you receive. Remember, this is a walking tour, so comfortable shoes are a must to enjoy the full experience without discomfort.

Children under 3 can join for free, making it family-friendly if you’re traveling with little ones. The tour is primarily conducted in English and French, so check with your guide if you have language preferences.

Booking is flexible—you can request your preferred time, and cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind.

As reviews mention, guides like Caio tend to communicate well beforehand, providing instructions and clarifying your interests to make sure the experience is tailored perfectly.

Who Would Benefit Most?

This tour really shines for travelers who value authentic, personalized experiences. If you’re visiting Ghent for the first time and want to get oriented with insider knowledge, it’s a perfect choice. Those interested in discovering offbeat locations or local stories will find this especially rewarding.

People who enjoy conversational exploration over scripted narratives will appreciate the relaxed, authentic vibe. It’s also an excellent option for travelers who might have specific interests like street art, hidden cafes, or local crafts.

However, if you prefer a structured, museum-style visit or a quick overview of the main sights, you might want to complement this experience with other tours or self-guided explorations.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a private walking tour with a local guide in Ghent offers a meaningful way to see the city through a more personal lens. The flexibility to tailor your experience, combined with the chance to discover secret spots and hear local stories, makes this a standout option for those seeking authentic, immersive travel.

The guides’ knowledge and friendly approach help make Ghent feel like a city you’re visiting with a friend rather than a distant tourist. This kind of experience is especially valuable for travelers eager to go beyond the surface, connect with the city’s character, and enjoy a relaxed, customized day.

At around $65, the tour offers excellent value for personalized attention and expert insights. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or someone returning for more, this experience promises a fresh perspective on Ghent that you’ll remember long after you’ve left.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children under 3 can join for free, making it a family-friendly option. Just ensure they’re comfortable walking.

Can I request a specific start time?
Absolutely. You can ask for your preferred time when booking, and the guide will accommodate if possible.

Are transportation costs included?
No, this is strictly a walking tour. You’ll need to cover any transportation around the city separately.

What if I want to visit a specific attraction?
You can request to include specific sights, but entrance fees will be your responsibility.

How long does the tour last?
While the exact duration can vary, most private walks are designed to be flexible based on your interests and pace.

What language are guides available in?
Guides speak English and French, so confirm your preference when booking.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are highly recommended, as it’s a walking tour that covers different neighborhoods and hidden spots.

This private Ghent tour is a fantastic way to experience the city’s authentic charm through the eyes of a local. It’s perfect for those who want a tailored, engaging day and are open to discovering Ghent’s best-kept secrets.