Embark on an evening exploration of Ghent, uncovering its captivating history, myths, and legends with a knowledgeable and enthusiastic local guide.
Venture beyond the usual tourist paths to reveal the highlights and hidden treasures of our magnificent city. The tour concludes after 1.5 hours in the medieval quarter of Ghent, conveniently located near the city center, offering a deeper appreciation of Ghent and the chance to make new friends.
If you are unable to attend the tour for any reason, kindly inform us so we can offer your spot to other visitors. Thank you for your cooperation and enjoy the experience!
IMPORTANT NOTE: Our guides are volunteers who offer tours for tips, so please bring cash to reward the guide. The charged fee only covers the cost of booking via this platform.
1 St Michael's Bridge
We begin here with an overview of Ghent's history and its significant role as a medieval trading center. From this vantage point, you'll also get the best view of the city's three iconic towers.
· 15 min
2 St. Bavo's Cathedral
We will share the chilling tale behind why this stunning cathedral is also referred to as the ‘Devil’s Tower’.
· Non-stop passage
3 Graslei and Korenlei
We proceed to the vibrant heart of Ghent's medieval harbor, a testament to the city's past economic prosperity in Europe, and discuss its thriving trade activities.
· 10 min
4 Bridge overlooking the Butchers’ Hall
Standing on this bridge that offers a view of the grand Butchers’ Hall, we recount the legend of a father and son's execution and the miraculous event that saved them.
· 10 min
5 Castle
Constructed by Count Baldwin in the 9th century to defend the populace from Viking invasions, this formidable fortification marked the beginning of the city's development. Our guide will share its compelling history.
· 10 min
6 Prinsenhof
Our next stop is the site of what was once a vast palace known as the Prince’s Court. While it requires some imagination today, our guide will vividly bring its past to life!
· Non-stop passage
7 Rabot Sluice
Here, we will point out the sole surviving tower from the extensive 14 km defense wall that encircled Ghent during the Middle Ages.
· 10 min
8 Keizer Karel V
We will lead you to the Bridge of Imperial Delights, adorned with four sculptures depicting legendary moments from the life of Charles V. Our guide will elaborate on some of these scenes.
· 10 min
9 Augustijnenklooster
At this point, we will discuss the tumultuous period of the Religious Wars and the impact of Calvinist governance on the city's historical trajectory.
· Non-stop passage
10 Patershol
To conclude our tour, we will guide you through the charming medieval district of Patershol, or ‘Monk’s hole,’ where we will explore the social consequences of the Industrial Revolution and its role in revitalizing the city's economy!
· 10 min
Mobile or paper ticket accepted. One per booking
We meet in front of Hostel Uppelink, Sint-Michielsplein 21. Look for the RED umbrella!
IMPORTANT NOTE: Our guides are volunteers who offer tours for tips. The fee only covers the cost of booking via this platform.
The tour concludes in the Patershol area in the city center, where you'll find lots of cozy bars and restaurants.
Please be at the meeting point (Sint-Michielsplein 21, in front of Hostel Uppelink) 10 minutes prior to the tour's commencement and look for the guide holding a red umbrella. You are welcome to use the lockers and restroom facilities at the hostel if needed.
Kindly note that our Evening Tour: The Dark Side of Gent operates on a free tour basis, meaning you are welcome to offer a tip to the guide if you enjoyed the experience. Please ensure you have cash available for this purpose. The booking fee is solely for processing your reservation and securing your spot.
Wheelchair accessible Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller Service animals allowed Public transportation options are available nearby Transportation options are wheelchair accessible All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible Suitable for all physical fitness levels Wear comfortable walking shoes as the tour covers various parts of the city. Bring cash to tip your volunteer guide if you enjoyed the tour. Arrive at the meeting point 10 minutes early to locate the guide with the red umbrella. The tour is suitable for all ages and fitness levels. For a full refund, please cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Product code: 309017P2
Activity offered by Gent Free Walking Tour via Viator.
WizardTrip Help Center History enthusiasts Myth and legend lovers Evening explorers All fitness levels Discover Ghent's hidden history and legends after dark. Explore off-the-beaten-path locations with a local guide. Gain insights into medieval trade, architecture, and folklore. Conclude the tour in the atmospheric Patershol district. Suitable for all fitness levels and accessible.
Population 272,657 (2025)
Currency euro
Driving on the right
Power plugs C, E · 230 V
Emergency number 112
Capital city Brussels Average temperatures 3° Jan 3° Feb 6° Mar 10° Apr 13° May 16° Jun 18° Jul 18° Aug 15° Sept 11° Oct 7° Nov 4° Dec Sources: Wikidata; climate: NASA POWER, 2001-2025 averages.
What is the meeting point for the tour? + The meeting point is in front of Hostel Uppelink, Sint-Michielsplein 21. Look for the guide with the red umbrella.
Is this a free tour? + Yes, this is a free tour. The guides are volunteers and work for tips. The booking fee covers the platform's cost.
What should I bring? + Please bring cash to tip your guide. Comfortable walking shoes are also recommended.
Can I cancel my booking? + Yes, for a full refund, please cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews provided by Viator, written by travellers on Viator and Tripadvisor.
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Excellent Tour Guide Kenny
aoifek287, October 2026
excellent tour guide kenny, very passionate and interactive!
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
EXCELLENT TOUR
V6345OOsandrap, October 2026
The tour with Kenny was amazing!! Really worth it, he has an wonderfull energy
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Genuinely memorable experience
gavinwO8941ZA, October 2026
Our tour guide Kenny made such a memorable experience for our tour. He was knowledgeable and friendly and so so funny. It’s very obvious how much he cares about his city and I couldn’t recommend him any more. We learned so much more than we expected and had so much fun. We love you Kenny!
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Very cool walking tour
M7592JTowenm, October 2026
Kenny was excellent tour guide he was super funny and very enthusiastic. Very interesting tour, he explained a lot about the city you would not typically think about while walking around Ghent.
★★★★★ Viator review
The tour guide was very...
Katherine_M, October 2026
The tour guide was very knowledgeable. She had a big personality and was fun to listen to. Lots of great stories.
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