Ghent

Currents of Power: The Hidden Waterways of Ghent

2.5 km92 min6 stops

What awaits you on this Red Thread tour

Ghent is a city born from water, but it didn't just float into existence—it was engineered, fought over, buried, and resurrected. Join urban planner Tom and local historian Emma on a redthread tour that reveals how the Leie and Scheldt rivers were manipulated to build empires, defend borders, and feed citizens. From medieval monopolies to modern environmental resurrections, discover the liquid lifelines that dictate the past, present, and future of this magnificent Flemish city.

Itinerary

1

TOUR START

Portus Ganda

The exact geographical birthplace of Ghent, where the Leie and Scheldt rivers naturally converge.

Portus Ganda

Image by rvanhegelsom on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

0.45 km • 7 min
2

STOP 2

De Reep (Nederschelde)

A restored section of the Scheldt river that was covered by concrete for decades.

De Reep (Nederschelde)

Image by Wernervc on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

0.82 km • 13 min
3

STOP 3

Graslei and Korenlei

The iconic medieval port showcasing the immense wealth generated by the grain staple right.

Graslei and Korenlei

Image by Pedro J Pacheco on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

0.24 km • 4 min
4

STOP 4

Oude Vismijn

The old fish market located at the junction of the Leie and Lieve canal, illustrating the city's foodways.

Oude Vismijn

Image by PMRMaeyaert on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)

0.49 km • 8 min
5

STOP 5

Lievekaai

A picturesque quay along the artificially dug 13th-century Lieve canal.

0.54 km • 8 min
6

END

Rabot

A 15th-century sluice gate and fortification demonstrating water as a defensive mechanism.

Rabot

Image by Ricardalovesmonuments on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Where the tour takes place

Starting point and rough tour area – the exact route unfolds in the app.

Good to know

  • Ideal for History buffs, architecture enthusiasts, urban explorers, and anyone fascinated by the intersection of nature and human engineering.
  • Best time Late afternoon, when the golden hour light reflects off the canals and the city's historic facades begin to glow.
  • Footwear Wear comfortable walking shoes, as you will be navigating historic cobblestone quays.
  • Photography Bring a polarizing filter for your camera to cut through the glare on the water.
  • Pacing Take your time at the Lievekaai; it is the perfect spot to sit and reflect.
  • Your voucher You can redeem your voucher for two years from purchase. Once redeemed, you have 14 days of access and can enjoy the tour as often as you like during that time.

Your guide

Tom Bennett
Audio sample
0:000:00

Tom Bennett

  • Urbanism, Infrastructure & Innovation
  • Northern England

Architecture and urban planning professional. Explains the city's hidden systems – from mobility to water pipes – clearly and vividly.

Frequently asked questions

How do I get to the tour after buying?

You see your voucher code right after payment – and you also receive it at the email address you entered at checkout. Redeem that code in the Red Thread app; that's where the tour starts.

When does my access start?

Only when you redeem the code in the app, not at purchase. From redemption you have 14 days of access to the tour.

Do I need the Red Thread app?

Yes. The free Red Thread app turns your tour into a vivid experience: with audio, a map, and thoughtful prompts, it guides you from place to place in an engaging and entertaining way. It's available free for iOS and Android.

Now only €3.99 incl. VAT