Ghent: 40-Minute Historical Boat Tour of City Center – How to Plan Your Tour
If you’re planning a visit to Ghent, Belgium, taking a 40-minute historical boat tour of the city center is a must-try experience that you should not miss. This is a unique way to discover the city from the water and learn about its rich and fascinating history from a knowledgeable guide. In this post, we will guide you on how to plan your tour and make the most out of your visit to Ghent.
Experience
Embark on a relaxing boat cruise where you will see the beautiful architecture in Ghent and view the impressive walls of the Castle of Counts. The tour departs from a picturesque jetty and takes you on a journey through the city’s historic past. A local knowledgeable guide will provide you with insightful knowledge about the city’s past and answer any questions you may have.
Highlights
The 40-minute historical boat tour offers the following highlights:
- Enjoy a unique way to discover Ghent from the water side
- Learn about Ghent’s fascinating long history from a local knowledgeable guide
- See the beautiful architecture in Ghent and view the impressive walls of the Castle of Counts
Full description
The tour departs from the jetty, and your journey on the boat will allow you to see Ghent from a different perspective. You will learn about the history of the city and discover Medieval Ghent and its prestigious past. The boat will take you along the waterways to see various historical landmarks such as the House fronts of the Graslei and the old meat-market.
One of the highlights of the tour is the Castle of Counts, where you’ll be able to view the castle’s impressive walls and imagine the lives of the powerful people who once walked its corridors. Your riverside view point will allow you to soak up the history and marvel at the grandeur of the city.
Includes
The tour includes:
- 40-minute guided boat tour
Not suitable for
The tour is not suitable for:
- People with mobility impairments
- Wheelchair users
How to Book
Booking the 40-minute historical boat tour of Ghent city center is easy. Click here to book the tour and secure your spot.
Tips for Your Tour
To ensure that you get the most out of your tour, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Be sure to arrive at the jetty ahead of your scheduled departure to avoid missing your boat ride.
- Wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather.
- Carry a hat and sunscreen if your tour is scheduled in the summer months.
- It’s a good idea to carry a camera or a smartphone to capture the stunning views of the city from the water.
- Make sure to listen carefully to the knowledgeable guide and ask any questions you may have for a more enriching tour experience.
Conclusion
Taking the 40-minute historical boat tour of Ghent city center is a unique experience that every visitor to Ghent should try. It offers a new perspective on this beautiful city’s architecture and history, and the knowledgeable guides will provide you with an enriching experience that you will cherish for a long time. Book your tour today and get ready for an unforgettable journey.
Ghent: An Insider’s Guide to the Historical Belgium City
Ghent, often called the ‘hidden treasure’ of Belgium, is a charming and picturesque city that is frequently overlooked by tourists. However, Ghent is a city full of character with a rich past and an exciting present. Here is an insider’s guide to Ghent to help plan your next trip.
Local Attractions
Ghent’s UNESCO-listed city center is a living museum of storied cathedrals, winding canals, historic buildings, and quaint cobblestone alleys, all of which come wonderfully to life on a 40-minute guided boat tour. The boat tour is a leisurely way to discover Ghent’s past, with landmarks such as the Gravensteen Castle, St. Bavo’s Cathedral, and the renowned three towers.
If you have a keen interest in art, then Stedelijk Museum voor Actuele Kunst, SMAK, has an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art from famous artists like Francis Bacon, Gerhard Richter, and Tony Cragg.
Those interested in learning more about Ghent’s history can visit the Belfry and Cloth Hall, one of the city’s most famous landmarks. The Ghent Belfry is one of Belgium’s three remaining medieval towers and offers a stunning panoramic view of the city from its top.
Dining
Ghent has a diverse range of dining spots, ranging from traditional local cuisine to cosmopolitan international fusion. A must-visit dining destination is the Balls & Glory restaurant, which is famous for its meatballs. The meatballs are made from a secret recipe and include both traditional and vegetarian options. If you want to enjoy hearty Flemish cuisine, then the restaurant ‘Trijn van Leemput’ is a must-visit place.
Ghent’s cafes are the perfect spot to try the locally brewed beer. Enjoy a pint of beer with Frites, a quintessential Belgian dish while soaking up the local ambiance.
Cultural Experiences
One of the best ways to learn about Ghent is to participate in its cultural experiences. The Ghent Festival, aka Gentse Feesten, is an 11-day annual celebration where the city comes alive with music events, culinary experiences, and cultural performances. Ghent’s Christmas markets are a must-visit in December, offering tasty delicacies, beautifully decorated trees, and local vendors selling handmade crafts.
If you want to explore the city’s cultural heart, then visiting De Handelsbeurs is recommended. This historic building has been restored and now serves as a concert hall where visitors can listen to a variety of musical genres ranging from Jazz to contemporary music.
Local History
Ghent’s past is rich in history and culture, and a visit to one of the city’s two abbeys is a must-visit. St Peter’s Abbey, founded in the seventh century, has undergone numerous transformations throughout its history, from an imperial palace to a monastery and a brewery. The Abbey now serves as a cultural center, offering concerts, lectures, and exhibitions.
Another historic site in Ghent is the Castle of the Counts (Gravensteen). The castle dates back to the 12th century and was the residence of the Counts of Flanders. Now open to visitors, the castle provides a glimpse of life during the Middle Ages with its torture chambers and a museum that showcases its history.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions
Ghent is filled with hidden gems that offer an authentic Belgian experience. The Patershol is a small, charming neighborhood where visitors will find an array of restaurants, cafes and artisanal shops. The neighborhood has a unique atmosphere that reflects Ghent’s historical past. A visit to the Museum of Folklore should not be missed, where visitors can learn about the different aspects of traditional Flemish culture.
Another place that may not feature on a typical tourist itinerary is the white limousine, which is located next to one of the city canals. The limousine is a popular spot among locals where they can enjoy a beverage and soak up the ambiance of the city.
Conclusion
Ghent offers a variety of activities, experiences, and attractions, which makes it an ideal vacation destination. By following this insider’s guide, visitors can learn about the best local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions, thereby experiencing the charming and picturesque city in all its glory.
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