The medieval city of Ghent shines brightest when explored with knowledgeable local guides. Walking tours hit all the must-sees – including St. Nicholas Church and the imposing Gravensteen Castle – while sharing fascinating historical tidbits you’d miss on your own. For food lovers, intimate beer and chocolate tours (max 8 people) offer generous tastings and insider access to family-owned shops. Electric scooter tours work well for covering more ground while staying green.
The best experiences come from small-group and private tours, where guides can tailor the pace and content. Skip the self-guided options – the app-based tours lack personality and often feel outdated. Traditional large-group walking tours (15-20 people) provide good value but can feel rushed during peak season.
Let’s look at our favorite Ghent tours that combine stellar guides with memorable experiences.
Good To Know
- The Ghent Beer Guided Walking Tour and the Ghent Small-Group Chocolate Tour are highly recommended guided tours, with 4.8 and 4.9-star ratings respectively.
- The Private Walking Tour offers an in-depth, customizable exploration of Ghent’s top sights with a local guide, avoiding traffic and focusing on visitor interests.
- The Guided Tour of Ghent, led by a Spanish guide, provides a 2.5-hour overview of the city’s architecture and legends, starting at the Belfort tower.
- The Guided Tour Ghent is a 2.5-hour wheelchair-accessible tour covering key sites like St. Bavos Cathedral, with food recommendations included.
- Guided tours in Ghent generally receive higher ratings and positive feedback compared to self-guided options, with engagement from knowledgeable guides being a key factor.
Ghent Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour
Although the Ghent Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour may not be the most highly-rated tour option in Ghent, it provides an opportunity for independent travelers to explore the city’s key landmarks at their own pace.
The app-based, self-guided tour takes visitors to Saint Michaels Church, the starting and ending point, and highlights various notable sights. While the tour includes snacks, it’s not wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for those with back problems.
With an overall rating of 3.0 based on a single review, the tour has received feedback on issues with the starting code and a preference for more engaging, fun facts rather than detailed information about the landmarks.
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Ghent: Self-Guided City Walking Tour With Audio Guide
One of the best ways to explore the historic city of Ghent is through the Ghent in 1 Day – Walking Tour, a self-guided audio tour that allows travelers to discover the city’s key landmarks at their own pace.
The tour covers 29 stops across 4.3 km, with audio guides available in 7 languages. Featuring GPS guidance and the flexibility to pause and explore attractions, the tour has earned a 5-star rating from one reviewer.
Priced from $8.02 per person, the tour can be completed within 2-3 hours or over the course of a day, making it an accessible and convenient option for visitors to Ghent.
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Hidden Ghent: A Self-Guided Audio Tour Of The Flemish City
Travelers seeking a more immersive and off-the-beaten-path exploration of Ghent can embark on the Hidden Ghent: A Self-Guided Audio Tour.
This lifetime-access tour allows users to experience the city’s hidden gems through a mobile app for Android and iOS. With offline access to audio, maps, and geodata, the self-guided tour leads visitors from Korenmarkt to the Golden Column art installation, covering iconic landmarks and lesser-known sites.
While not wheelchair-accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers. Offered year-round, the tour provides a flexible and personalized way to uncover Ghent’s rich history and culture at a pace that suits individual interests.
At $11.99 per person, it’s an affordable way to explore the Flemish city.
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Self Guided City Audio Tour in Ghent
For travelers seeking a flexible and immersive exploration of Ghent’s hidden gems, the Self Guided City Audio Tour provides a personalized way to uncover the Flemish city’s rich history and culture.
With 31 audio recordings and illustrations, the tour covers key sights and historical details at your own pace. The self-guided experience allows users to navigate the offline map and route starting and ending at St Michaels Bridge.
While smartphones and headphones are required, the tour’s accessibility and 1-year access make it a convenient choice. Although transportation and meals aren’t included, the affordable price and positive reviews highlight the tour’s value for independent travelers.
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Ghent Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide
The Ghent Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide offers travelers an in-depth exploration of the city’s captivating history and architectural gems.
This private tour highlights the city’s top sights, including St Nicholas Church, City Hall, Gravensteen Castle, and St Jakob’s Church. Guests will discover ancient myths, medieval architecture, and cultural attractions with the guidance of a local expert.
The tour features a personalized experience with possible customization, allowing visitors to focus on their areas of interest, such as art and architecture.
With a focus on must-see sights and the convenience of avoiding traffic, this tour is an ideal way to make the most of one’s time in Ghent.
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Guided Tour of Ghent
On this guided tour of Ghent, travelers embark on an immersive exploration of the city’s rich history and architectural wonders.
The 2.5-hour walking tour is led by a professional Spanish guide, providing insights and recommendations throughout. Guests will meet at the iconic Belfort tower and conclude near the Gravensteen castle, with easy access to public transportation and dining options.
The tour accommodates up to 25 travelers and is highly rated at 4.2 out of 6 reviews. Flexibility is key, as the experience may vary based on group preferences.
Cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.
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Ghent Beer Guided Walking Tour
Immersing visitors in Ghent’s vibrant beer culture, the Ghent Beer Guided Walking Tour offers an unparalleled exploration of the city’s renowned brewing traditions.
Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars with a Badge of Excellence, the tour is recommended by 97% of travelers.
Over the course of the experience, participants sample five different Belgian beers at popular bars and pubs, while learning about the local brewing history and traditions.
The tour also allows guests to soak up Ghent’s unique ambiance as they explore the city on foot.
Available in the afternoon and evening, the tour accommodates a maximum of 20 travelers and includes all taxes, fees, and alcoholic beverages.
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Ghent Small-Group Chocolate Tour With Local Guide
Ghent’s vibrant culinary landscape beckons visitors to indulge in its rich chocolate heritage on the Ghent Small-Group Chocolate Tour with Local Guide.
This highly-rated 4.9 star experience takes travelers on a delectable journey through the city’s top chocolatiers. Led by knowledgeable local guides, the tour offers an opportunity to taste at least nine different kinds of chocolates and sweets.
Guests will also learn about Ghent’s history and culture while visiting 6-7 stops, sometimes sampling multiple items at each location. With a maximum group size of 15, the tour provides a personalized and immersive experience for chocolate lovers.
Offered at a discounted price, this tour is a unique way to explore Ghent’s culinary delights.
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Guided Tour Ghent
A guided tour of Ghent offers visitors a rundown of the city’s highlights.
The 2.5-hour tour covers local stories about architecture, legends, and paintings, with key sites including the Ghent Town Hall, St. Bavos Cathedral, and The Great Butchers Hall.
The tour starts at 10:00 AM outside the Belfort Tower, where a guide holding a black umbrella will meet the group, which has a maximum size of 30 travelers.
The tour ends at the Gravensteen, the Castle of the Counts of Flanders.
Wheelchair-accessible transportation and surfaces are available, and most travelers can participate.
While no meals are included, the guide provides food recommendations.
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Ride The Unexpected Guided Tour Ghent by Urban Offroad E-Scooter
The Ride The Unexpected Guided Tour offers travelers a thrilling and eco-friendly way to explore Ghent’s hidden gems.
Led by an enthusiastic guide, this private tour utilizes electric scooters to navigate the city’s picturesque routes. Riders can expect a moderate physical challenge, though the scooters are accessible for those with basic biking skills.
The tour includes essential gear like helmets, backpacks, and rain protection, ensuring a comfortable experience regardless of the weather.
With a 4.9-star rating from 36 reviews and a 97% traveler recommendation, this guided experience provides an unforgettable way to discover Ghent’s charm and character while reducing one’s carbon footprint.
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Ostend Self-Guided Tour and City Game – Ghent
Embarking on the Ostend Self-Guided Tour and City Game, travelers can explore the charming seaside city of Ghent at their own pace.
This unique experience combines an online game and city walk, accessible via smartphone. Available for booking from April 2022 to December 2025, the activity starts and ends at the Oostende train station.
Suitable for most visitors, including wheelchair users and those with service animals, the tour can be enjoyed daily from 12:00 AM to 11:59 PM.
Priced from $33.15 per group of up to 6 participants, the self-guided experience offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and has received an impressive 4.5-star rating from 9 reviews.
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Ghent Private Tasting Tour With Local Guide
Ghent’s thriving food scene beckons travelers to embark on a private tasting tour, providing an immersive experience that goes beyond the city’s crowded tourist hotspots.
This 96% traveler-recommended tour takes guests on a journey through local foodie haunts, offering a minimum of 8 tastings, including sweet and savory delights like cheese croquettes, Belgian chocolates, and local beer.
Along the way, a knowledgeable guide shares insights into Ghent’s history, culture, and legends. Highlights include discovering hidden gems, enjoying a variety of samples, and exploring the city’s vibrant culinary landscape.
With a private format and a convenient meeting point, this tour promises an unforgettable experience for foodies.
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Kortrijk Self-Guided Tour With Interactive City Game – Ghent
An interactive e-Scavenger hunt invites travelers to explore the city of Kortrijk at their own pace.
Suitable for teams of up to 6 people, the tour is accessible for wheelchair users and the hearing impaired. Participants use a smartphone app to navigate through the city, completing challenges along the way.
The tour starts and ends at Stationsplein 6, 8500 Kortrijk, Belgium. With an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on 8 reviews, this self-guided tour offers a unique and engaging way to discover Kortrijk.
Customers can take advantage of the free cancellation and unlimited rescheduling policy up to 24 hours before the start of the tour.
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Ghent Private off the Beaten Path Tour With Local Guide
Travelers seeking an immersive and off-the-beaten-path experience in Ghent can embark on the Ghent Private Off The Beaten Path Tour. Rated 5.0 out of 12 reviews, this private tour takes guests on a journey through the city’s hidden gems.
Accompanied by a local guide, participants enjoy snacks and tastings of local specialties as they explore Ghent’s unique culture and history. The tour starts at the Kouter and ends at the iconic Belfry of Ghent.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is convenient, as it’s located near public transportation. Praised for their expertise and engaging presentation, the tour guides ensure an enjoyable and educational experience for all travelers.
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Ghent Small-Group Tasting Tour With Local Guide
The Ghent Small-Group Tasting Tour whisks participants through the city’s historic streets, introducing them to a delectable array of local delicacies. Rated 4.7 out of 5 and recommended by 94% of travelers, this small-group tour offers a unique insight into Ghent’s culinary heritage.
Led by a knowledgeable local guide, the tour includes six tasting samples of regional specialties, from croquettes to dried Ganda ham, cheeses, and chocolates. Complemented by three alcoholic beverage tastings, the experience emphasizes quality over quantity, ensuring a well-rounded exploration of Ghent’s flavors.
While some reviewers noted the limited food portions, the tour’s focus on historical and cultural insights makes it a recommended choice for those seeking an immersive local experience.
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Ghent Self-Guided Tour With Interactive City Game
Frequently, travelers opt for the Ghent Self-Guided Tour With Interactive City Game, a unique way to explore the city at their own pace.
The tour, which boasts a 4.4 rating from 32 reviews, allows visitors to independently discover Ghent’s top landmarks, including the Ghent Town Hall, St. Bavo’s Cathedral, and St. Michael’s Bridge.
The family-friendly game incorporates a smartphone app with questions about the various locations, adding an engaging element to the sightseeing experience.
The tour accommodates groups of up to six people and is wheelchair accessible, stroller-friendly, and user-friendly for the hearing impaired.
With a Badge of Excellence and a Lowest Price Guarantee, this self-guided adventure offers an excellent value for those seeking to explore Ghent at their own rhythm.
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Ghent Private Beer Tour With Local Guide
One of the most immersive ways to experience Ghent’s vibrant beer culture is the Ghent Private Beer Tour with a local guide. Priced from $160.39 per person, this private tour offers a minimum of 5 local beer tastings and the expertise of a knowledgeable city guide.
The tour starts at the iconic Saint Michaels Church and ends in the charming Belfortstraat neighborhood. Along the way, you will learn about Ghent’s rich brewing history and sample some of the city’s finest craft beers.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers, except pregnant women. Confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking, but no refunds are provided if canceled.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Book a Customized Guided Tour to Suit My Interests?
Yes, many tour providers in Ghent offer customized guided tours that can be tailored to suit your specific interests. You can work with the tour company to create an itinerary that aligns with your preferences.
Do the Tours Offer Discounts for Families or Groups?
Many tour providers offer discounts for families and groups booking together. These discounts can vary, so it’s best to inquire about specific pricing options when planning your tour to get the best deal.
How Much Walking Is Involved in the Self-Guided Tours?
The amount of walking in self-guided tours varies, but participants can expect to cover several kilometers as they explore the city at their own pace. Many tours provide maps and suggestions to help visitors navigate the streets comfortably.
Are the Audio Guides Available in Multiple Languages?
Audio guides are typically available in multiple languages to accommodate visitors from diverse backgrounds. Many tour providers offer audio guides in popular languages like English, French, German, and Dutch to enhance the self-guided experience.
Can I Request a Private Tour at a Specific Time?
Yes, you can typically request a private tour at a specific time. Many guided tour companies in Ghent offer customizable private tours to accommodate individual schedules and preferences. This allows for a more personalized sightseeing experience.
The Sum Up
Ghent offers a variety of guided tours to suit different interests and budgets. Visitors can choose from scavenger hunts, self-guided audio tours, private walking tours, and even beer tastings with a local guide. Whether you’re looking to explore the city’s top landmarks or discover hidden gems, there’s a Ghent tour that’ll cater to your needs. With so many options, travelers are sure to find the perfect way to experience the charming Flemish city.