Things to do in Castle Gravensteen
This 12th-century fortress boasts a stormy past and was often the centre of skirmishes and bloody battles. Built by Philip of Alsace in 1180, Castle Gravensteen embodies the old crusader strongholds found in the Holy Land.
Towering stone walls with medieval merlons a central donjon, nearby stables and a moat fed by the river Lys make up the castle, creating a setting that's worthy of a fairy tale.
Passing through the gatehouse and entering the keep's inner halls will give you a feel of what it was like to live within the walls. Counts and knights used to use Castle Gravensteen as their personal living quarters and display their military power in the town of Ghent.
Visitors can also uncover the torture chambers, famous all over Belgium. Discover a large collection of torture tools put on display in the chamber of execution.
Castle Gravensteen also hosts a plethora of cultural events and activities throughout the year, so you can find something new every time you come for a visit.
Our recommendations in Castle Gravensteen
Book your day trip to see the beautiful buildings of Ghent and discover the fascinating history of Ghent and its secrets with your professional guide.
en, es
Historic Ghent city exploration game
Discover Historic Ghent by solving challenges and unlocking stories on your phone, leading you to new places and amazing stories.
Best of Ghent highlights walking tour
Explore all the highlights ofGhent on a private tour. Hear fascinating facts about what makes it so special while you visit the most charming places in the city
en, nl
Self guided tour with interactive city game of Ghent
Explore Ghent in a unique and affordable way. A self-guided city trail will guide you to the best spots in the city while playing fun riddles and assignments on your smartphone.
en, it, fr, es, de, +1 nl
Book your day trip to see the beautiful buildings of Ghent and discover the fascinating history of Ghent and its secrets with your professional guide.
en, es
Historic Ghent city exploration game
Discover Historic Ghent by solving challenges and unlocking stories on your phone, leading you to new places and amazing stories.
Best of Ghent highlights walking tour
Explore all the highlights ofGhent on a private tour. Hear fascinating facts about what makes it so special while you visit the most charming places in the city
en, nl
Self guided tour with interactive city game of Ghent
Explore Ghent in a unique and affordable way. A self-guided city trail will guide you to the best spots in the city while playing fun riddles and assignments on your smartphone.
en, it, fr, es, de, +1 nl
Sites of Ghent Family Guided Tour
Book an exclusive family-friendly walking tour that will make sure the kids have as much fun sightseeing as adults. Stroll around the city center, see the famous cultural sites and hear stories that are guaranteed to provide a few giggles.
en, nl
How to get there
Castle Gravensteen
Ghent
Belgium
Reviews Castle Gravensteen
“A very nice tour around the city (even though they were a couple mistakes that made it difficult to follow). It let you see a few of the most important historical buildings in the city, and it would explain some facts about them, all following this sci-fi story about time-travelling.”
“A very nice tour around the city (even though they were a couple mistakes that made it difficult to follow). It let you see a few of the most important historical buildings in the city, and it would explain some facts about them, all following this sci-fi story about time-travelling.”
