Evening Tour of the Dark Side of Gent
4.9 / 5 · 981 traveler reviews
Join our evening tour of Ghent and discover the fascinating history, myths and legends of our city with an experienced and passionate local guide. We take you off the beaten track to show you some highlights and hidden gems of our gorgeous city. After 1.5h we will finish the tour in the medieval quarter of Gent, very close to the city center, with a deeper understanding of Gent and perhaps some new friends! If you cannot make it to the tour for whatever reason, please notify us, so we can open your slot to other visitors. Thank you and enjoy the tour! 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.
Your experience
Stop 1
We start here with an introduction to the history of Ghent and the role the city played as a trading hub in medieval times. We also introduce you to the 3 towers of the Ghent skyline, which are best visible from this spot.
Stop 2
We’ll tell you the gruesome story of why the beautiful cathedral is also known as the ‘Devil’s Tower’.
Stop 3
We take you to the heart of the bustling medieval harbour of Ghent, back when the city was an economic powerhouse in Europe, to tell you about the lucrative trading activities.
Stop 4
On this bridge overlooking the giant Butchers’ Hall, we tell you the legend about the execution of a father and son and the miraculous event that saved them.
Stop 5
Built by Count Baldwin in the 9th century to protect the inhabitants from the Viking raids, it was around this impressive fortification that the city started to develop. Our guide will share its fascinating history with you.
Stop 6
Next, we take you to what once was a gigantic palace called the Prince’s Court. Today we need some imagination to envision it, but our guide will bring its history to life!
Stop 7
Here, we will show you the only remaining tower of the 14 km long defence wall that was built around Ghent in the Middle Ages.
Stop 8
We take you to the Bridge of Imperial Delights, which is flanked by 4 sculptures which depict legendary scenes of the life of Charles V. Our guide will explain you some of them.
Stop 9
On this stop, we’ll tell you about the troublesome history of the Religious Wars and the effect the Calvinist rule has had on the history of the city.
Stop 10
To finish the tour, we take you to the picturesque medieval quarter of the Patershol or ‘Monk’s hole’ to tell you about the social impact of the Industrial Revolution and the role it played in the revival of the city’s economy!
What’s included
- All Fees and Taxes
Not included
- Gratuities
Meeting and pickup
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.
Before you go
- 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
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Check the policy for your selected date and option before booking.
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