Private tour to Ghent from Brussels (5hours walk & drive)

A Private Day in Ghent: Medieval Charm Meets Lively Modernity

If you’re craving a taste of authentic Belgium beyond the usual Brussels sights, this private tour to Ghent offers a perfect blend of history, vibrant city life, and stunning architecture. For around $546, you’ll spend about 4 to 5 hours exploring the city’s most iconic sites with a knowledgeable guide, including private transportation from Brussels. What makes this experience stand out? First, you get an intimate, personalized look at Ghent’s highlights, and second, the opportunity to see world-famous art like the Ghent Altarpiece—an absolute art lover’s treasure.

A couple of considerations: the tour involves some walking and climbing the Belfry’s spiral stairs, which isn’t ideal if mobility is an issue. But for most, this is a chance to truly connect with the city’s medieval soul while enjoying the comfort of private transport and expert guidance. This tour is perfect for those who appreciate history, art, and a lively, authentic atmosphere—think students, cultural enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a comprehensive yet relaxed day exploring Belgium’s hidden gem.

Key Points

• Personalized experience with a licensed guide and private transport
• Visit key highlights: Belfry, Castle of the Counts, Saint Nicholas Church, and the Ghent Altarpiece
• Stunning views from the Belfort tower and medieval port houses at Graslei and Korenlei
• Authentic neighborhoods like Patershol with winding medieval streets and cozy cafes
• Flexible, walk-and-drive format suited to your pace and interests
• Excellent reviews praise the guide’s knowledge and the overall enjoyable experience

Exploring Ghent: A City of Contrasts and Charms

This private tour offers a wonderful way to uncover Ghent’s layered personality. It’s a city where medieval grandeur meets urban vibrancy, and you’ll get to experience both firsthand. For the price, you’re not just getting a guided walk—you’re getting a carefully curated taste of a city that often flies under the radar but is packed with sights, stories, and lively energy.

What strikes us most is how this tour balances historic sites with local neighborhoods. The fact that it is a private tour means you can enjoy flexibility—your guide, Joyce, for example, is praised for her knowledge, friendliness, and fluency in five languages, making the experience feel both informative and personal.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Stop 1: Graslei and Korenlei

We start at Graslei and Korenlei, the heart of Ghent’s medieval port. Here, you are greeted with a picture-perfect skyline of well-preserved port houses that date back centuries, creating a lively yet timeless scene. The narrow, gabled buildings along the river make for some fantastic photos. It’s a spot where the city’s history is written in stone, and you can easily see why it’s considered one of the most beautiful areas in town.

Reviewers love the chance to soak in this scenery—one describes it as “magnifique.” It’s a quick stop, but one that sets the tone for the city’s historic importance and lively ambiance.

Stop 2: Het Belfort van Ghent

Next, we head to Ghent’s Belfry, a tall, imposing tower built in 1425. Climbing the spiral stone staircase is part of the adventure; it’s steep and narrow but offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the two biggest churches nearby. If you’re not keen on stairs, an elevator option might be available, but the climb itself is a memorable part of the experience.

From the top, you can gaze out over Ghent’s rooftops and get a real sense of the city’s medieval layout. Guides will often point out key landmarks and share stories about the bell tower’s historical role as a symbol of civic pride.

Stop 3: Gravensteen Castle

This impressive medieval fortress stands at the city’s core and provides a tangible link to Ghent’s past. Walking around its ramparts and towers, you’ll appreciate the medieval architecture and imagine what life was like in centuries gone by. The castle offers a glimpse into the city’s gritty history, and at the same time, it’s a great spot for photos.

Stop 4: Patershol Neighborhood

Winding down the tour through Patershol, a neighborhood of narrow cobblestone streets and historic buildings that have kept their medieval charm. Today, it’s filled with cosy cafes and small restaurants, perfect for soaking in local life or grabbing a quick coffee. Many reviews comment on its “Flemish appeal”—an authentic, lived-in part of Ghent that’s a delight to explore on foot.

Stop 5: Saint Nicholas Church

This Gothic church, completed around 1200, dominates the skyline with its blue-gray stones. It’s an active place of worship and a fine example of medieval ecclesiastical architecture. The quiet interior contrasts with the lively streets outside, offering a moment of calm and reflection.

Stop 6: Ghent Town Hall (Stadhuis)

A quick stop at this ornate Gothic building reveals a mix of architectural styles and some wonderfully detailed stonework. Your guide will point out highlights, making it a good photo opportunity and a reminder of Ghent’s civic pride.

Stop 7: The Ghent Altarpiece

Finally, we visit St Bavo’s Cathedral to see the world-famous Ghent Altarpiece, also known as The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb. Created by the Van Eyck brothers in 1432, this masterpiece is often called one of the most influential paintings ever made. The artwork’s intricate detail and luminous colors leave many visitors in awe.

Access to the altarpiece is usually limited to a short viewing, but many reviews emphasize how it’s a highlight of the tour. For art lovers, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see a world-class work in its original setting.

What You Can Expect from This Tour

Transportation & Timing: The private vehicle ensures comfortable transit between sites and allows flexibility in timing. Expect to spend roughly 10 minutes at each stop, with some sites like the Belfry and Altarpiece requiring a bit more time.

Guidance & Insight: Joyce, the guide praised in reviews, brings deep local knowledge and art history expertise, making even familiar sights come alive. Her fluency in five languages means non-English speakers will also feel well cared for.

Pace & Walking: The tour involves a fair amount of walking—through cobblestone streets, up stairs, and around historic sites. It’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable with that and not dealing with major mobility issues.

Pricing & Value: At $546, it’s a fairly steep price, but you’re paying for personalized attention, private transport, and a curated experience. The reviews reflect high satisfaction, especially praising the guide’s knowledgeability and personable approach.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

If you’re a lover of history, art, and authentic city life, this tour delivers a well-rounded experience. The small group size (maximum three travelers) ensures plenty of interaction and flexibility, making it feel less like a sightseeing rush and more like exploring with a knowledgeable friend.

The stunning views from the Belfry and the gorgeous port scenery along Graslei and Korenlei give you memorable visuals, while stops like Patershol and the medieval fortress provide depth and atmosphere. The access to the Ghent Altarpiece elevates this from a typical city walk to an art-filled day you’ll remember.

Final Thoughts

This private Ghent tour is tailored for those who want a meaningful, intimate look at one of Belgium’s most charming cities. The combination of historic sights, breathtaking views, and a guide praised for her knowledge and friendliness makes it a standout choice for travelers seeking quality over quantity. If you’re eager to see major sights without feeling rushed, and enjoy a flexible, personalized experience, this tour offers excellent value.

It’s particularly suited for those comfortable with walking and stairs, curious about medieval architecture and art, and looking for a small-group adventure that balances sightseeing with the joy of discovery.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Due to the walking involved and the stairs at the Belfry, it’s not recommended for travelers with major mobility issues.

How long is the drive between Brussels and Ghent?
While the exact driving time isn’t specified, the private transportation is designed to keep the transfer comfortable, allowing you to focus on sightseeing.

Does the tour include entrance fees?
No, entrance fees for sites like the Belfry, Gravensteen Castle, and the Ghent Altarpiece are not included. You should budget for these if you wish to go inside.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers private transportation, a personal licensed guide, and a tasting of local sweet “Gentse Neuzen”.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, you may be able to tailor some stops based on your interests—discuss this directly with your guide.

How many people are in each group?
The tour has a maximum of 3 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

Is the tour available year-round?
Yes, it operates from June 2019 to June 2026, every day from 9 am to 5 pm.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, given the cobblestone streets and some climbing.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, so plan to bring a snack or enjoy a meal in one of Ghent’s many cafes.

How far in advance should I book?
It’s best to book at least a few days ahead, especially if you want a specific time slot or guide.

This private tour to Ghent offers a thoughtfully crafted experience blending history, art, and local charm, perfect for travelers who want to explore a Belgian city with depth and personal attention.