Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Taking a trip to Ghent? This e-Scavenger hunt offers a fresh way to explore the Belgian city without the hassle of guided tours or rigid schedules. For around $35 per group, you’ll get a self-guided adventure that combines history, culture, and a little friendly competition—all through a smartphone app.
What we really like about this experience is how it makes sightseeing interactive and accessible for all ages. Kids and adults alike can enjoy solving clues, learning about landmarks, and wandering at their own pace. The only potential snag? It requires your own smartphone and data, so you’ll want to be sure your device is ready to go.
This tour is ideal for travelers who love a mix of independence and fun, especially those who prefer to customize their exploration. If you’re into city adventures that don’t follow the usual tourist trail, this could be just what you’re looking for.
Key Points
Flexible Exploration: You control the pace, stopping as long as you like at each landmark.
Interactive Fun: The smartphone app turns sightseeing into a game suitable for families or groups.
Landmark Highlights: See top sights like Ghent Town Hall, Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, and the Gravensteen castle.
Cost-Effective: At just over $35, it offers a fun experience without breaking the bank.
Convenient Setup: Book ahead, and you’ll receive a mobile ticket to start exploring anytime from the designated meeting point.
Authentic Experience: The clues and questions are designed to give you insights beyond what guidebooks offer.
How the Experience Unfolds: A Closer Look
Looking for more options in Ghent? Here are some other experiences worth considering.
Starting Point: Sint-Baafsplein
The journey kicks off in the lively Sint-Baafsplein, a central square with historic significance. From here, the app guides you through a series of stops, each offering different facets of Ghent’s character. Reviewers note that the clues are engaging and encourage wandering through various parts of the city, making the experience more organic compared to traditional tours.
Discovering Ghent’s Old Squares and Landmarks
One of the first stops is the Vrijdagmarkt, one of Ghent’s oldest squares. Covering about a hectare, it’s a lively spot filled with market stalls, cafes, and historic buildings—perfect for snapping photos and soaking up local life. Reviewers like Helen found the clues “interesting” and appreciated how the game brought them into different neighborhoods. The app’s questions about the square add a layer of learning without feeling like a chore.
Next, you’ll explore Ghent’s Town Hall, a four-sided complex surrounded by other historic streets like Botermarkt, Hoogpoort, and Poeljemarkt. The Stadhuis is more than just an administrative building; it’s a symbol of Ghent’s medieval prosperity. While you might not go inside, the app provides context that makes the sight more meaningful.
Religious and Medieval Highlights
The tour leads to Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, the oldest parish church in Ghent, built on the site of earlier churches dating back to the 10th century. The app’s questions about the Romanesque architecture and the history of the site deepen your appreciation. Reviewers mention that the clues make the visit more engaging, especially for those interested in architecture and history.
Another noteworthy site is the Castle of the Counts, or Gravensteen, an almost intact medieval castle. With its defensive towers and moat, it’s an eye-catching stop along the itinerary. Since it’s a popular attraction, expect some time spent here, and perhaps some extra exploration beyond the clues.
The Heart of the City
The Ghent City Center around Korenmarkt and the River Leie is a highlight. Here, you’ll find the Belfry of Ghent, a 95-meter tower offering fantastic views over the city. The app’s clues help you learn why the Belfry is such a key symbol of Ghent’s medieval wealth.
You’ll also explore St. Michael’s Bridge, right next to the church of the same name, with picturesque views of the river and the city skyline. The Patershol neighborhood, with its narrow, medieval streets, is perfect for a leisurely stroll and some hidden gems like cozy cafes and artisan shops.
You might also want to explore these Ghent activities
Cultural Hotspots and Hidden Gems
History buffs will enjoy the Ghent Museum of Fine Arts, one of Belgium’s oldest museums. While you might not spend hours inside, the clues hint at the significance of the artworks and tapestries housed there. Nearby, the graffiti alley—sometimes called “graffiti street”—offers a vibrant contrast to the historic architecture and is a fun stop for younger visitors or street art fans.
The Practical Side: What to Expect
Duration and Group Size
The tour lasts approximately 2 to 4 hours, depending on your pace and how long you linger at each location. It’s designed for groups of up to six people, making it ideal for families or small friends’ gatherings. This small group size means a more personalized experience, and you won’t have to wait for others to catch up.
Cost and What’s Included
At $35.54 per group, this activity offers great value, especially considering the flexibility it provides. Included in the price is access to the user-friendly mobile app, which guides you through the stops, presents questions, and allows you to earn points or unlock facts along the way. You’ll need to bring your own smartphone and ensure you have data coverage—so plan accordingly.
Meeting Point and Flexibility
The activity begins at Sint-Baafsplein and ends back at the same spot, making it easy to plan your day. The tour operates year-round, with open hours from noon until midnight, offering plenty of flexibility for scheduling.
Accessibility and Additional Info
The tour is suitable for most travelers; it’s accessible for those with hearing impairments and is compatible with public transportation nearby. Service animals are allowed, and the activity is private, meaning only your group participates.
Booking and Cancellation
Booking is straightforward and often happens 5 days in advance on average. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start, giving you some peace of mind if your plans change unexpectedly.
What Reviewers Say
While the overall rating of 4.4/5 reflects a positive experience, some nuances are worth noting. One reviewer, Helen, found the clues “interesting” and appreciated how they prompted walking through different city parts. She called the tips “an added good idea,” which shows how the interactive element enhances sightseeing.
However, another review gave it a 3 out of 5, possibly indicating that some found the activity a bit straightforward or lacking in depth. Still, most agree that the game adds a fun, engaging twist to exploring Ghent, especially for families or first-time visitors.
Who Will Love This Tour?
If you’re someone who enjoys independent exploration combined with a touch of game play, this tour is perfect. It’s suited for families with kids who want a more interactive experience than just walking around with a guidebook. Travelers wanting flexible timing, a reasonable price, and a chance to learn about Ghent’s landmarks through questions and clues will find this highly appealing.
It’s also great for groups who prefer to avoid large guided tours but still want some structure and insight. The app-based format makes it easy to customize your pace and revisit spots if you wish.
The Sum Up
This self-guided e-Scavenger hunt offers a fun, flexible way to discover Ghent’s historic sites, charming neighborhoods, and iconic landmarks. It’s a cost-effective option for small groups, combining educational content with entertainment—without the rigid schedule of traditional tours.
Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo and want to make your sightseeing more lively, this experience provides a friendly, interactive approach. The landmarks are well-chosen, and the app’s questions give you a richer understanding of Ghent’s character, making your visit more meaningful.
The only real consideration is your device—smartphone and data are a must—and the activity’s simplicity might not satisfy those seeking in-depth guided commentary. But for a relaxed, fun introduction to Ghent, it hits the mark.
This tour is best for curious travelers who like a little competition, enjoy exploring at their own pace, and want a memorable, authentic glimpse of Ghent that’s both educational and entertaining.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the game is family-friendly and designed to be engaging for kids and adults alike, making it a good choice for family outings.
Do I need my own smartphone and data?
Yes, you will need your own smartphone and an active data connection to access the app and participate fully.
How long does the tour typically take?
The duration varies from about 2 to 4 hours, depending on how long you spend at each stop and your pace.
Is it a guided tour with a person?
No, this is a self-guided activity. You navigate using the app, with no physical guide involved.
What landmarks will I see?
Expect to visit Ghent Town Hall, Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, the Belfry, the Gravensteen, and other historic sites in the city center.
Can I start this tour at any time?
Yes, it’s available from noon until midnight, and you can start at your convenience.
Is this activity wheelchair accessible?
While specific accessibility details aren’t provided, it’s designed to be user-friendly and suitable for most travelers, including those with hearing impairments.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.
