Explore Ghent’s Medieval Centers with a Guided Boat Tour

Ghent is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, with a wealth of magnificent architecture, world-renowned art galleries and breathtaking canals, making it the ideal destination for a holiday. Although there is a wide variety of activities available, a Guided Boat Tour of Ghent’s Medieval Centers is a tour that you won’t want to miss.

The boat tour starts near St. Bavo Cathedral, one of Ghent’s most impressive Gothic buildings that dates back to the 12th century. During the tour, you will cruise along the canals and admire the stunning views of the city from the water. As you travel, your knowledgeable guide will point out various landmarks, including Gravensteen Castle, the impressive Beguinage complex and Drongen Abbey, which was established in 1097 and is one of Ghent’s oldest monasteries.

The tour also takes you around Sint-Baafsplein, known as the main square of Ghent. Here you can get great views of the two most famous cathedrals in the city – Saint Nicholas’ Church and Saint Bavo Cathedral – as well as see some beautiful parks and statues. As you travel along the winding canals, be sure to keep an eye out for the famous Patershol district. This historic neighbourhood is full of charming cobblestone streets, quaint cafes and antique shops.

The boat tour offers a great chance to learn more about Ghent’s rich history and culture. As you admire its stunning architecture, your guide will provide interesting facts and stories that are often overlooked by tourists. During your trip, they will also tell you about the city’s traditions, festivals and artwork.

At the end of your tour, feel free to take your time exploring Ghent’s onshore attractions. You will have plenty of time to visit some of the city’s best-known sights, such as St. Nicholas’ Church or Gravensteen Castle, or opt for a romantic stroll around some of its charming historical streets.

Overall, a guided boat tour of Ghent’s Medieval Centers is an amazing way to explore this enchanting city with ease. You will get to experience its unique culture first hand and enjoy stunning views from the water. To make sure your trip is as enjoyable as possible, be sure to book your tour in advance and find the right guide for you. That way, you can take advantage of all that Ghent has to offer and make sure your trip is picture perfect!

Insider’s Guide to Ghent, Belgium

Located in the heart of Flanders, Ghent is a beautiful and historic city that has managed to retain its medieval charm and character. A guided boat tour through the city’s canals is one of the best ways to explore the city’s rich history and culture from a different perspective. Here’s your insider’s guide to exploring Ghent.

Local Attractions

Ghent is full of attractions, which range from historic landmarks to cultural institutions, and natural scenery. The top attractions in the city include:

• Gravensteen Castle: A medieval castle that was built in the 10th century and now operates as a museum.
• St. Bavo’s Cathedral: A Gothic cathedral that houses the world-famous Ghent Altarpiece, a painted masterpiece that was created in the 15th century.
• The Belfry: A medieval tower that provides panoramic views of the city.
• The Ghent City Museum: Located in the old city jail, the museum showcases local history and culture.
• The Saint Peter’s Abbey: A historic Benedictine abbey that is now used as an exhibition space and concert hall.
• The Graslei: This beautiful quay and its surrounding architecture are a must-see, especially at sunset.
• The Garden of the Museum of Fine Arts: This manicured park is a lovely spot to relax.

Dining

Ghent is renowned for its excellent cuisine, which blends traditional Flemish and Belgian specialties with international influences. Local dishes to try include waterzooi, a creamy fish stew, and stoverij, a beef stew made with dark beer. Some of the popular establishments that come highly recommended by locals include:

• De Vitrine: One of Ghent’s top restaurants which offers creative, seasonal dishes that reflect the produce sourced at the nearby markets. Reservation recommended.
• Balls & Glory: Famous for their meatballs stuffed with various fillings and served with mashed potatoes.
• Het Gebaar: This elegant patisserie boasts incredible desserts and pralines, made with the finest Belgian chocolate.
• Tasty World: A local food favorite that serves falafel dishes with a variety of toppings.
• De Superette: This hip bakery turns sourdough bread making into an art form. They also have a great brunch menu.
• Bar Bidon: An eco-friendly bar housed in a recycled shipping container that serves beer and snacks with a focus on sustainability and social responsibility.

Cultural Experiences

Ghent is a city full of culture and history. Its rich cultural offerings span from classical music to contemporary art. Here are some cultural experiences not to miss:

• Opera Ghent: One of the leading opera houses in Europe, located in a beautiful 19th-century building.
• Vooruit Arts Centre: This cultural hub hosts performances, exhibitions, and workshops that explore contemporary culture and society.
• Ghent Jazz Festival: This annual music festival held in July attracts jazz musicians from all over the world.
• Design Museum Ghent: This museum features a permanent collection of Belgians design classics alongside temporary exhibitions.

Ghent’s History

Ghent has a long and fascinating history, from Celtic and Roman origins to medieval and modern times. Here are some key historical events and landmarks that are worth a visit:

• The Castle of the Counts of Flanders: A medieval fortress that was built in 1180 AD by Philip of Alsace.
• The Ghent Altarpiece: The famous 15th-century polyptych created by Flemish painters Jan Van Eyck and his brother Hubert that draws thousands of visitors annually.
• The Saint Bavo Abbey: A Benedictine monastery founded in 645 AD and the birthplace of the venerated Saint Bavo, the patron saint of Ghent.
• The Saint Nicholas’ Church: A beautiful medieval church constructed in the 13th century with a tower that provides incredible views of the city.

Off-the-Beaten-Path

Aside from its popular attractions, Ghent also has hidden gems that often get overlooked by tourists. Here are a few lesser-known locations worth exploring:

• The Cats’ Caboose: This whimsical shop features a unique collection of vintage objects and memorabilia.
• The Café Folklore: An authentic Belgian brown bar that offers a cozy atmosphere and delicious local beers.
• The Floralies Garden: Located outside the city center, these beautiful gardens are a great place to relax and get away from the bustling city life.
• The Museum Dr. Guislain: This museum inspires conversations about mental health by showcasing artwork, history, and modern ideas.
• The Sphinx Cinema: This art deco cinema shows a diverse array of international films and independent movies.

Ghent offers countless possibilities for entertainment, gastronomy, and cultural exploration. Follow this insider’s guide to make the most of your visit to Ghent, and remember to look beneath the surface to discover the hidden gems that make the city so unique.