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Gravensteen

Gravensteen: Our most recommended tours and activities

Ghent: 50-Minute Medieval Center Guided Boat Trip

1. Ghent: 50-Minute Medieval Center Guided Boat Trip

Take a boat close to the amazing Castle of the Counts to discover the most beautiful places of Ghent. A guide will take you through the fascinating history of medieval Ghent and its historical buildings and architecture on this 50-minute tour. Enjoy the famous three towers of Ghent, various medieval churches and monasteries, the birthplace of Charles V of Spain, majestic guild halls, a breathtaking castle, and much more! Hear the stories behind these magnificent monuments. Your tour is guided in English, Dutch, and French. There are also illustrated translations into German, Spanish, Italian, Russian and Japanese available on board.

Ghent: Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt and City Tour

2. Ghent: Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt and City Tour

Uncover the highlights in Ghent with an interactive smartphone app. Stroll through the city solving location-based riddles on this walking tour. Marvel at the Gothic-style Saint Michael's Church and the medieval Gravensteen castle.  Uncover 10 of the most important attractions in the city as you walk. Stop and find clues at each attraction to reveal your next destination. Enjoy the challenge of using logic, imagination, observation, and team spirit to finish the game. Start or pause the tour whenever you want as you control the schedule. Explore the city at your own pace, and stop to snap pictures as you please. Reveal an exciting puzzle at the exterior of each attraction and learn local facts along the way. Start your tour from Sint-Michielskerk, in the center of Ghent. Visit Sint-Michielsburg with its unique architecture and explore Sint Niklaaskerkt with its magnificent architecture. Take a picture of the Belfry of Ghent that is straight out of a fairy tale. Let yourself get lost in Sint-Baaf's Cathedral with its unique interior and imposing exterior. Learn about the ornate Gothic facade of Ghent City Hall and see the Korenmarkt at the heart of the city. Admire Place de Neuve with its imposing statue and be enchanted by the Sint-Jacobskerk. Pass by Vrijdagmarkt with its lifelike statue and great history. Gaze at the medieval castle of Gravensteen and learn about knights, princesses, and stories from the past.

From Brussels: Bruges and Ghent in a Day Guided Tour

3. From Brussels: Bruges and Ghent in a Day Guided Tour

Meet your guide in the center of Brussels and relax on the 100-kilometer journey to Bruges. Upon arrival, discover the charms of “the Venice of the North” and see why the entire historic center was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  Marvel at highlights such as the Lake of Love (Minnewater Lake) and the 13th-century Begijnhof complex, founded in 1245 to house lay religious women. Go to Walplein Square, where the shady trees and cafes provide a perfect place to relax. Visit Stoofstraat on the site of the city's former Red Light District, and see medieval monuments such as the 11th-century Old St. John’s Hospital. Look at the world's second tallest brickwork tower at the Church of Our Lady, and see other historic monuments such as Gruuthuse Palace, the Dijver Canal and the tiny piazza of Tanners Square (Huidenvettersplein). Go to one of the city's most photographed spots at Rozenhoedkaai, and admire the Belfry on Castle Square. Admire the facades of the Gothic-style Town Hall and the 12th-century Basilica of the Holy Blood. Visit Market Square (Grote Markt) to see the Bell Tower (Belfort) and Sint-Salvator’s Cathedral. Then enjoy 1-hour's free time for lunch (at your own expense) and the chance to sample some of the city's delicious chocolates.  Next, drive to Ghent, where the inhabitants have been popularly known as "noose-bearers“ since the days of Charles V. Take a guided tour of the city's historic buildings, such as the Castle of Gerald the Devil and Saint Bavo Cathedral, where you can look at the painting “The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb” by the Van Eyck brothers. Admire the Belfort (Bell Tower) and peculiar Gothic and Renaissance-style Town Hall. See one of the city's oldest monuments at St. Nicholas’ Church opposite the unusual facade of the Masons’ Guild House. Journey along the embankments of the medieval port of Graslei, and discover other highlights such as the majestic Castle of the Counts of Flanders, the charming Patershol neighborhood, the Great Butchers’ Hall, the Old Fish Market, and Friday Market Square.

From Brussels: Ghent Full-Day Guided Tour in English

4. From Brussels: Ghent Full-Day Guided Tour in English

Meet your English-speaking guide at 8:30 AM in the center of Brussels and relax on the 60-kilometer journey to Ghent. Explore Ghent and learn the history at sights such as the 13th century Castle of Gerald the Devil, and St. Bavo's Cathedral, where you can see The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb by the Van Eyck brothers.  Hear why Ghent's inhabitants are known as noose-bearers as you visit the Belfry of Ghent and the Town Hall. Go to St. Nicholas’ Church and the Masons’ Guild Hall and see the quay side buildings of the Graslei. Visit medieval Gravensteen castle and enter the pretty Patershol neighborhood. Explore Ghent's trading history at the Great Butchers’ Hall, Old Fish Market and Friday Market. Get 4 hours of free time for lunch and to stroll on your own.

From Brussels: Bruges & Ghent Full-Day Trip

5. From Brussels: Bruges & Ghent Full-Day Trip

Discover the highlights of Bruges and Ghent, Belgium's most attractive cities, with a round trip by train from Brussels. Tour two of the most fascinating medieval cities in Europe with an English/Spanish or French-speaking guide on a 10-hour guided day trip. Depart from the Grand Place at 9:30 AM only on Sunday. Upon arrival at the central station of Bruges, begin with a 2.5-hour walking tour and 2 hours of free time for eating, souvenirs, and a boat trip. The scheduled return to Brussels will be at 17:00 and arrival at 6 PM with your guide. In the case of small groups, there is the possibility of choosing between returning with the guide at the scheduled time or spending more time there and returning later by yourselves. Program in Bruges: In the ancient city wall park, the "Lake of Love" is one of the main water reservoirs nourishing the canal system of the Venice of the North. Visit the Beguinage, one of the best-preserved examples of medieval gated communities in which only women could live. See Brewery De Halve Maan, the only brewery still operating in the city center. Afterward, Old St. John’s Hospital is one of the oldest hospitals in Europe, where you can appreciate 800 years of European architecture, learn about its history and visit the museum of Hans Memling (optional). Head on to Our Lady of Bruges one of the oldest churches in the city. Admire its impressive tower which is still one of the tallest brickwork towers in the world, and take a look at its art treasures, including Michelangelo’s Madonna with the Child (optional). Stop by the VisMarkt (fishmarket) and the Tanners’ Square, two of the oldest squares in Bruges with their beautiful guildhalls and lovely cafés and restaurants. You will also visit the Groeninge Museum, Burg Square, and Markt Square, the economic heart of Bruges. Admire its imposing guildhalls and its Belfort tower, which is one of the most famous Gothic buildings in Belgium. In the end, have an optional canal tour (8 EUR per person, pay while embarking on the boat), which is one of the best ways to see Bruges. Program in Ghent: Journey to the port city of Ghent, located at the scenic confluence of the Leie and Scheldt Rivers. Start your tour of the historic city at Saint Bavo Cathedral and admire the spectacular Gothic church and Baroque ornamentations. Next, step into the marble choir and private chapels, and appreciate the painting of “Saint Bavo Enters the Convent at Ghent” by Rubens and the beauty of the Rococo pulpit. Look at the stunning frescoes of the Romanesque crypt. Then, opt to visit the altarpiece of "The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb" by the Van Eyck brothers and admire one of the most important works of art from the Middle Ages for a small extra fee. Continue to City Hall to see its extraordinary mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. Go to Market Hall to look at the Belfort Tower and the covered market. Marvel at the nearby churches of Saint Nicholas, Saint James, and Saint Michael, serving as reminders of Ghent’s medieval past. Proceed to the old port of Graslei for beautiful views of the river Leie and the old guildhalls. Then, head to the medieval castle of Gravensteen, where the counts of Flanders used to live. Explore the picturesque district of Patershol and see charming buildings with brick facades where restaurants and cafes offer the best Flemish cuisine. Finally, head to the 15th-century Great Butchers' Hall to discover one of Europe's oldest meat markets.

Ghent: The Dark Side of Ghent Private Walking Tour

6. Ghent: The Dark Side of Ghent Private Walking Tour

Explore the lesser-known side of Ghent with your professional private guide on this 1.5-hour walking tour. Learn about the city's history, discover interesting facts and get to know the dark side of Ghent via old legends and tales of mystery. Finish the tour in the medieval quarter, very close to the city center, with a deeper understanding of Ghent. Enjoy a perfect mix of history and dark stories, myths, old legends, interesting facts, and hidden gems — everything to make your time in Ghent mysterious and exciting. As it is a private tour, it can be customized based on your preferences and indications. Stops included on the tour: + Saint Michael’s Bridge, + St. Bavo's Cathedral, + Graslei, + Appelbrugparkje, + Gravensteen, + Prinsenhof, + Rabot, + Bridge of Imperial Delights, + Augustine Monastery, + Patershol, and many more!

Ghent: Private Walking Tour

7. Ghent: Private Walking Tour

Ghent is located about 50 kilometers from Brussels and is considered a historical jewel of Belgium.  The city is the birthplace of Charles V, Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire and heir to the house of Habsburg. Ghent played an important role during the industrial revolution in continental Europe. Here, the first labor movement was established in 1859. Today, the city has maintained its medieval center, and several of its Gothic buildings are listed as a World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. Among the places you may visit are Saint Bavo’s Cathedral (visit to the altarpiece, The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb by the Van Eyck bothers), the market square, the Belfort tower and the covered market, the city hall, the churches of St. Nicholas, St. James, and St. Michel, the Graslei, Gravensteen, Patershol and the medieval butchery.

Ghent: City Exploration Game with Mobile App

8. Ghent: City Exploration Game with Mobile App

Follow a trail through the city of Ghent. Explore as you look for clues and speak to historic characters! In this story based on a true event, you will join the revolt against Emperor Charles. For one of his many conquests, he demands money, and the proud people of Ghent are done with it. And do you know what happens when he doesn’t get what he wants? He takes over the city with a huge army! The time has come to take action and teach him a lesson. Let’s storm his castle! You'll meet interesting characters and help them discover how they can defeat such a powerful opponent. In an interesting twist, you as a player decide what you’re going to say to the characters and they will respond differently to it. This game is made for you to enjoy the city as much as the game itself. So please, when you see a nice store, cozy restaurant or a building you want to visit, put the game on hold and enjoy. You decide when to start and when to take a break. The adventure and flexibility makes this city game one of the best activities for during your stay in Ghent.

Ghent: Private Historical Highlights Walking Tour

9. Ghent: Private Historical Highlights Walking Tour

Travel back in time to the golden days of medieval Ghent on this private walking tour that shows you the historical highlights of the city. Listen to stories of love, glory, and fortune, as well as tales of intrigue, war, and conflict. After meeting your guide at Saint Michael's Bridge, you’ll walk through the medieval heart of the city on a route that includes all the must-visit spots. You'll visit Saint Michael's Bridge, Saint Nicholas Church, Grass Quay & Corn Quay, Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, the Belfry, the City Hall, the Guild Houses, Gravensteen Castle, Friday Market, Duivelsteen and many more. As you explore highlights and hidden gems, you’ll get the perfect mix of history, funny stories, legends, and facts — everything you need to make your experience of Ghent authentic and exciting. By the end of the tour, you'll know more than a local and you'll have a better idea of where to go and what to do during your time in Ghent. As an added perk, we'll offer you a booklet with discounts and gifts at local restaurants, museums and shops.

Ghent: Hop on hop off Water-Tramway

10. Ghent: Hop on hop off Water-Tramway

Welcome to the Hop on hop off water-tramway in Ghent, the perfect way to explore this beautiful city by boat! Our water-tramway offers you a unique and scenic way to see the city's most iconic sights and attractions. Ideal to combine with a nice stroll through the streets of Ghent. Using the Hop on hop off water-tramway in Ghent is easy and convenient. Simply purchase your day ticket. Once you have your ticket, just hop on board at one of our 6 stops along the waterside and enjoy the ride. Information regarding the timetable of the departures can be found in the table above. Our water-tramway is equipped with an amazing and informative audio guide in multiple languages (Dutch, French, English and German), so you can sit back, relax, and learn about the history and culture of Ghent as you cruise along the waterways. As the name suggests, our Hop on hop off water-tramway allows you to explore the city at your own pace. With multiple stops along the different waterways, you can hop off at any stop to explore the attractions that interest you most. When you're ready to continue your journey you hop back on the next available water-tramway. Some of the top attractions you can see on our Hop on hop off water-tramway route include the St Bavo’s Cathedral, the Belfry and St Nicholas’ Church, the Ancient Port of Ghent Graslei-Korenlei, the Castle of the Counts, the Saint Bavo Cathedral, the St Peter’s Abbey dating from the 7th century and it’s vineyard among many others. In short, the Hop on hop off water-tramway is a must-try experience for anyone visiting Gent. It's a fun, convenient, and affordable way to explore the city's many attractions. So, don't hesitate to hop on board and start your adventure today!

Other Sightseeing Options in Gravensteen

Want to discover all there is to do in Gravensteen? Click here for a full list.

What people are saying about Gravensteen

Overall rating

4.3 / 5

based on 228 reviews

We booked this tour very last minute since we realized the main attractions in Brussels don’t take much time to see and most museums were closed on Mondays. It was easy to find the meeting location and we left on time. Everything was organized very well and instructions were given on the bus. We did the tour in Spanish and it was packed. About 50 people per bus but split into two groups. My partner and I sat separately on the bus because we were the last ones to get on so I recommend getting on the bus early. We got on last because we were eating and couldn’t bring it brought on the bus. Our tour guide, Diego, was awesome! He explained everything very well and super nice. I didn’t think it was too much walking but the streets are very uneven so definitely being comfortable shoes. It was worth the money especially since we got to explore two towns. The only thing I wish was different was spending more time in Bruges. Our lunchtime cut into the time to explore this town. We recommend!

We were very disappointed with the interior part of the castle visit as most of the rooms were almost completely empty. But they were also renovating the castle so that might explain it. The garden was so large that it was impossible to reach it all in one visit. BUT we spent 4 hours in the small part of the park which was the King and Marie Antoinette's "summer house" with its garden. It was so beautiful and cozy! But again, despite 4 hours, we didn't manage to see it all. Definitely a place we want to see again, but mostly the garden.

Worth every cent. Wonderful day and two fantastic places to visit. Shout out to Fabio who was our fantastic guide

A super well informed guide. And some really good tours in the 2 cities. A bit of a long day though.

very nice trip, didn't expect that much amusement in one day!