How long does it take to walk the Lys riverside route?

A typical stroll takes about 90 to 120 minutes. This includes time to stop for photos at Saint Michael's Bridge and enjoy the scenery along the Lievekaai.

What is the best time for photography in Ghent?

Sunset is ideal, as the low light hits the guild houses on the Graslei perfectly. The 'blue hour' is also popular because the city's monuments are beautifully illuminated at night.

Are there any hills on this walking tour Ghent?

No, this route is very flat. The only slight incline is the ramp leading up to Saint Michael's Bridge, making it an easy walk for most fitness levels.

Is the Rabot worth visiting?

Absolutely. It is one of the few remaining examples of 15th-century military architecture in the city and provides a great contrast to the more ornamental buildings in the center.

Can I see the Gravensteen castle on this walk?

Yes, the route passes very close to the Gravensteen near the Oude Vismijn stop. You can easily detour to see the castle's exterior or enter for a visit.

What is the significance of the Lievekaai?

The Lievekaai is significant as the terminus of the Lieve canal, Ghent's first artificial waterway. Today it is known for its romantic atmosphere and historic architecture.

Where can I find food along this route?

The Graslei is lined with terrace cafes, and the nearby Patershol neighborhood, accessible via the Oude Vismijn, is famous for its high-quality restaurants.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Ghent is a city defined by its relationship with water, and there is no better way to experience its soul than by following the banks of the Lys river. This self-guided walk invites you to explore the transition from the monumental stone heart of the medieval city to the quiet, leafy canals that whisper stories of trade and defense. Starting at the most famous vantage point in the city, you will trace the path of the water that brought wealth to the cloth merchants and life to the busy markets. The Lys—or Leie in Dutch—is not just a river; it is a mirror reflecting centuries of architectural evolution. As you embark on this neighborhood stroll, you will witness the architectural splendor of the Graslei, where guild houses stand as a testament to the city's Golden Age. The route then leads you away from the bustling center toward the Lievekaai, a hidden gem where weeping willows dip into the water and the pace of life slows significantly. This walking route is a dream for those interested in photography, offering endless opportunities to capture the play of light on historic brickwork and the perfect symmetry of stone bridges. Beyond the aesthetics, this walking tour Ghent offers a deep dive into the city's resilience. You will encounter the Old Fish Market and conclude at the Rabot, a formidable 15th-century fortification that once stood guard against invading armies. By exploring independently, you can linger at the spots that speak to you most, whether that is a quiet bench under a willow tree or the top of a bridge overlooking the Three Towers. This self-guided adventure provides the historical context you need to understand how Ghent transformed from a medieval powerhouse into the vibrant, atmospheric city it is today.

Highlights

The 360-degree panoramic view of Ghent's Three Towers from Saint Michael's Bridge

The stunning medieval guild houses lining the Graslei and Korenlei

The ornate gateway of the Oude Vismijn (Old Fish Market)

The romantic, tree-lined tranquility of the Lievekaai canal

The imposing 15th-century defensive towers of the Rabot

Tour Stops (5)

Saint Michael's Bridge

Begin your self-guided adventure on Saint Michael's Bridge, the only place in Ghent where you can capture the city's three famous towers—St. Nicholas' Church, the Belfry, and St. Bavo's Cathedral—in a single perfect line. While the bridge looks medieval, it was actually built in the early 20th century to create a grand entrance to the city for the 1913 World Exhibition. Look around and you will see the river Lys flowing beneath you, flanked by the Graslei and Korenlei. The bronze statue of Saint Michael on the central lamp post serves as a silent guardian of this iconic vista.

Graslei

Step down to the Graslei, once the beating heart of Ghent's medieval harbor. This quay was the center of the grain trade, and the magnificent buildings you see were the headquarters of various guilds. Notice the 'Spijker' or Grain Warehouse, dating back to 1200, featuring the oldest stepped gable in the world. Each facade tells a story of wealth and competition; the more ornate the building, the more powerful the guild. Today, this is the city's living room, where locals gather to enjoy the sun and the view of the water.

Oude Vismijn

As you walk toward the Oude Vismijn, or Old Fish Market, look up at the impressive gateway. At the top sits a statue of Neptune, the Roman god of the sea, flanked by the personifications of the city's two rivers: the Lys and the Scheldt. This site has been a market since the 14th century, though the current facade was rebuilt after a fire in the 19th century. It marks the transition into the Patershol neighborhood, the culinary heart of Ghent, and serves as a reminder of the city's historic dependence on the bounty of the water.

Lievekaai

Leaving the crowds behind, you enter the Lievekaai. This is one of the most romantic spots in Ghent. The Lieve was the city's first man-made canal, dug in the 13th century to connect Ghent to the North Sea. While its commercial importance has long faded, its aesthetic value remains unmatched. The weeping willows reflecting in the still water and the historic houses lining the quay make this a favorite for photography enthusiasts. It is a place to breathe and appreciate the quieter side of Flemish life.

Rabot

Your walk concludes at the Rabot, a unique piece of military architecture. These two massive towers were built between 1489 and 1491 on the spot where the Lieve canal entered the city. They weren't just for defense; they also functioned as a lock system to control the water level. The Rabot stands as a monument to Ghent's defiance; it was built after the city successfully repelled the troops of Emperor Maximilian of Austria. Today, it marks the boundary between the historic center and the industrial neighborhoods that fueled Ghent's later growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Ghent is extremely walkable. Most of the historic center is a pedestrian zone, and the distance between major landmarks like the Graslei and the Rabot is only about 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles).