Explore Ghent with a Medieval Center Guided Boat Tour

Ghent, the city of medieval towers, cobblestone streets, and picturesque canals, is a bustling cultural center in Belgian. The city’s central and strategic location in the heart of Europe ensures its visitors a unique experience. Whether you’re an art enthusiast interested in the numerous modern and traditional art galleries or an architectural buff intrigued by the historical churches and craftmanships, Ghent is sure to delight you.

To truly experience the beauty of Ghent’s river-rich landscape, consider taking a guided boat tour. The Medieval Center Guided Boat Tour is one of the best ways to explore the city as it gives visitors an up close and unique perspective. This tour takes sightseers on a gentle journey down Ghent’s evocative canals and rivers, allowing visitors to explore its hidden treasures.

While venturing down the waterways, visitors will explore a number of historical sites. The iconic Gothic cathedrals, looming medieval towers, merchant squares and the picturesque tree-lined rivers are all things to explore. The boat tour makes two pitstops – one of them being the majestic Graslei and Korenlei, where moments are savored over hot chocolate and homemade Belgian waffles. It is from these very waters that the city’s famous weekly market is staged as vendors set up their stalls.

The tour is run by experienced boatmen who will be more than glad to answer questions or provide trivia about Ghent throughout the journey. It takes one hour and fifteen minutes to finish the tour. The boatmen encourage you to sit back, relax, and just enjoy the views – you’re likely find an unexpected gem along the way.

The Medieval Center Guided Boat Tour is recommended for travelers of all ages and interests. Those who love boats, as well as those who will be seeing a boat for the first time, are sure to enjoy this tour. Those interested in medieval history should also make sure to book this experience as it allows first-timers to get a taste of Ghent’s past.

During this tour, guests should expect to be immersed in nature – one only needs to look at the rippling waters of the river and listen to the birds singing their sweet melodies to realize this. Not to mention, you’re sure to catch a glimpse of some of Ghent’s most iconic landmarks – including the Castle of the Counts and Gravensteen castle – from a unique point of view.

If you want a more personal experience, you can select a private tour with up to five people at a time. The boatman will take your group through Ghent’s historic city center while providing detailed information about each sight in an entertaining manner. The private tour option is recommended especially for those celebrating special occasions such as an anniversary, wedding or birthday party; or for those celebrating corporate successes or team building events.

The boat tour departs from different places depending on the day and time you choose to embark; most importantly, they are situated close to cafes, restaurants and other hot spots in Ghent that guests can explore before or after the tour. In addition, guests can purchase tickets right at the boat departure points and it is encouraged for them to arrive 10 minutes before departure time.

If you are interested in booking, head over to GetYourGuide and you can choose from a variety of options including private custom tours and regular departures. The packages listed on GetYourGuide also often include discounts and special offers.

Exploring Ghent through its wonderful waterways is a one-of-a-kind experience that should not be missed when visiting this beautiful city. Enjoy the stunning views of Ghent’s stunning landmarks, listen to stories shared by your expert and passionate boatman, soak up some sun on the water, indulge in Belgian treats: all this awaits you with a Medieval Center Guided Boat Tour in Ghent! So why wait? Book this activity now and let yourself be enchanted by one of Europe’s most exquisite cities and its rich history.

An Insider’s Guide to Ghent: Uncovering Hidden Gems and Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

Ghent is a charming city in Belgium that is rich in culture, history, and beauty. While the city has many tourist hotspots like Gravensteen Castle and the Ghent Altarpiece, there is much more to discover beyond the usual landmarks. As a savvy local, I will take you on a journey across Ghent to explore some of its unexplored corners and hidden gems.

Local Attractions: Uncovering Hidden Gems

While famous landmarks are a must-see, Ghent has many lesser-known spots that are just as fascinating. Step away from the main attractions and explore the quieter neighborhood of Patershol. Here you will find cozy alleys and bustling street life where local artisans and craftsmen work. Another hidden gem is the MIAT Museum. This textile museum may not be on the tourist map, but it takes you back in time and is an excellent place to learn about the heritage of weaving and textile production in Ghent.

Dining Spots: Indulge in Local Cuisine and Culture

Ghent’s food culture is its own kind of delight, with tasty waffles, freshly brewed beer, and Belgian fries – a must-try. Foodies will love the local delicacies. For a scrumptious traditional Ghent dish, try the Carbonnade Flamande, a hearty beef stew made with beer and served with fries. Avoid the tourist traps, and try the hidden gem restaurants tucked away in the alleyways, such as Café Folklore or De Superette. These restaurants provide a warm and cozy setting with mouth-watering Belgian cuisine.

Cultural Experiences: Celebrating Traditions and Festivals

Ghent is a city that celebrates its richness and diversity through its arts and culture. Plan your visit based on some of the city’s famous festivals such as the self-proclaimed “most authentic” Gentse Feesten cultural festival or the festive light festival, Festival of Lights, which illuminates the city’s landmarks in a surreal way. Dance enthusiasts must check out Vooruit, one of Ghent’s premier cultural institutions, housing a mix of performances and cross-genre arts.

Local History: Unearthing Captivating Narratives

Ghent’s history dates back to the middle ages, which still echoes in the city’s architecture and culture. The city was once Europe’s largest cloth-making city and the hub for medieval trading. Take a trip to Graslei, a quay in the historic center of Ghent, to learn about the city’s intricate history of trading and commerce on the canals. Just off the beaten path, The Museum of Industry provides insights into Ghent’s industrial history, from textile workstations to printing presses.

Off-the-Beaten-Path suggestions: Experiences beyond the Conventional

While there’s so much to explore in Ghent, there’s a unique part of Ghent’s past that is unfortunately overlooked. Head down to Portus Ganda, the city’s inner harbor, and experience a story on gentrification through street art. Explore the riverbank past an excellent display of graffiti art, and you’ll discover a hidden gem: a mural of Lucas de Heere, an accomplished Ghent artist and humanist of the Renaissance period.

In conclusion, Ghent is a city of many wonders and hidden gems that deserve exploration. These off-the-beaten-path experiences and hidden places make your trip unique and unforgettable. Whether wandering through historic districts, enjoying local cuisine, or being part of vibrant cultural events, Ghent provides something exciting and special for all travelers.