Ghent is one of the best cycling cities in Belgium. The old centre is flat, the main streets are largely free of through traffic, and thousands of residents and students ride every day, so a guided bicycle tour is a natural way to see it. The Bicycle Tour of Historic Ghent takes you across the old town and out to quieter corners with a guide, passing the great towers, the quays, the canals, the beguinages and the lively student districts, and explaining the stories behind them. Riding lets you cover more ground than a walking tour, so you see both the postcard centre and the less visited neighbourhoods in one outing, and you stop often to look and listen. The pace is gentle, the route is chosen for comfort, and the tour suits ordinary riders rather than athletes. It is a good option for a second day, when you have seen the headline sights and want to explore the rest of the city, and a refreshing change after hours of museums.
A guide who rides with the group does a lot of work that a visitor on a hired bike would not. They choose the safest and most scenic route, explain the traffic rules and the cycling culture of the city, and stop at points where the history or the architecture deserves a pause. You see the medieval centre, with its canals and guild houses, but you also ride into districts where students and families live, and past street art, parks and markets that most short-stay visitors miss.
The relaxed pace and the frequent stops make it accessible, and cycling in Ghent is easier than in many cities because there is relatively little elevation and a good network of cycle paths and calm streets.
Bikes are normally provided, but details such as the type of bike, helmets and child seats vary, so confirm what is included when you book. Wear comfortable clothes that you can ride in, take a waterproof layer when the weather is unsettled and carry a bottle of water. The cobbles in the old town can be bumpy, and tram tracks require care, so listen to the guide's instructions.
Traffic rules apply as usual, and Belgian cyclists are used to sharing space with pedestrians, trams and cars, so stay alert. The tour is not suitable for people who cannot ride a bicycle confidently, and children need to be able to ride in a group, so check the age limits with the operator.
The tour makes a good complement to the sights you enter. Take it early in your stay and you will know where to return, or take it later to see the places you missed. In winter, the ride can be cold, so dress in layers with gloves and a hat, though the quiet streets and the low light can be very beautiful. In summer, start early or late in the day to avoid the heat and the busiest hours.
Because you will use your hands and legs, wear sensible shoes, and leave bulky bags at the hotel. After the ride, reward yourself with a coffee or a beer on the Graslei or the Korenmarkt, both of which are close to the usual starting areas. Confirm the meeting point, the language of the guide and the length of the ride when you reserve.
What to expect
The experience
A guided ride through the old centre and nearby districts at an easy pace, with stops to look and hear the stories.
Best time
Morning or late afternoon, outside the middle of the day in summer and on dry days in winter.
How long
Around two to three hours, so confirm the exact length when you book.
Tips
Check what is included, such as bike type and helmets, wear layers and take care on cobbles and tram tracks.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Visitors who like to be active and want to cover more of Ghent than a walking tour allows.
- Families
- Good for older children who can ride confidently in a group, so check age limits with the operator.
- Couples
- A shared adventure with plenty of stops for photographs and a drink afterwards.
- Pair with
- A canal boat tour and a long lunch near the quays.
- Time needed
- Allow three hours including meeting time.
Good questions
Are bikes provided on the Ghent bicycle tour?+
Bikes are normally provided, but the type, helmets and child seats vary, so confirm what is included when you book.
Is Ghent good for cycling?+
Yes, the old centre is flat and largely free of through traffic, and cycling is part of daily life. Take care on cobbles and tram tracks.
How fit do I need to be?+
Ordinary fitness is enough. The pace is relaxed, the terrain is flat and there are frequent stops.
Can children take part?+
Older children who can ride confidently in a group are usually welcome. Check age limits and child seat options with the operator.
What if it rains?+
Tours generally run in light rain, so bring a waterproof layer. Check the operator's weather policy when you book.
