Benedikt

Passionate History & Culture Superspreader

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  • I live in Ghent
  • I speak English, Nederlands
  • Verified Local host
  • Response time less than 3 hours

Hi there! Nice to meet you

Benedikt

I’m not just a local, certified city guide and storyteller—I’m also a passionate History & Culture Superspreader, ready to take you on a journey through Ghent’s fascinating past and vibrant present.

Step into a world of captivating tales: I'll reveal the secrets behind Emperor Charles and the noose bearers, you'll experience two daring iconoclastic furies. And you'll get to know legendary Jacob Van Artevelde & the thriving cloth industry.

Plus, you'll sample Ghent cuberdons, marvel at the mysterious Golden Dragon, learn about industrial spy Lieven Bauwens and meet King William I who founded Ghent University. That's my alma mater where I earned my master's in communication sciences.

Let the refurbished Wintercircus astonish you and dive into the World Exhibition of 1913. No surprise that Ghent is your treasure trove brimmed with stories.

But most importantly, you'll be fascinated by Saint Bavo's Cathedral.

It possesses world famous triptych painting The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb aka The Ghent Altarpiece.

The Ghent Altarpiece was painted by outstanding Flemish Primitives master Jan Van Eyck in the 15th century. The permanent display in the cathedral includes a must-do augmented reality experience that will blow you away.

Not just historical Ghent is amazing for you. Contemporary Ghent holds many hidden secrets as well.

E.g.: did you know that Ghent has plenty of high level specialty coffee bars? Your chance to meet locals!

Are you aware that world class Napoli player Kevin De Bruyne grew up in Drongen - Ghent?

Do you realize that renowned techno deejay Charlotte de Witte took her first steps in Ghent? Also the Dewaele brothers aka 2manydjs aka Soulwax are true Ghentians. Not to mention crooner Helmut Lotti.

Would you have guessed that our Banksy - street art superstar ROA - was born and bred in Ghent? By the way: custom street art tours are one of my specialities.

Also Belgium's most important contemporary visual artist Berlinde De Bruyckere lives and works in Ghent.

Now, wouldn't you agree there's a lot for you to discover in Ghent? Then I, Benedikt - aka Ben from Ben's Ghent - might be your best bet.

Book Benedikt from Ben's Ghent now for an amazing Ghent experience loaded with hidden secrets, awesome stories and off the beaten track treasures.

Don't hesitate: just do it. ;-))

One more thing: with TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards in 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025, you know you’re in for an exceptional adventure with me - Benedikt from Ben's Ghent.

  • I live in Ghent
  • I speak English, Nederlands
  • Verified Local host
  • Response time less than 3 hours

Book one of my offers in Ghent

Let's explore Ghent together! As your local guide, I'll show you the best of Ghent on a private & personalized tour for you.

Did you know that I can personalize your experience?

All Withlocals tours are completely customisable to your needs. Just let me know your preferences for a private and personalized experience!

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Reviews

Nadia
16 July 2025
We had a fantastic tour through Gent with Ben! He was incredibly knowledgeable, sharing fascinating anecdotes and historical insights that really brought the city to life. His storytelling made every stop along the way memorable. As a sweet bonus, he took us to a hidden gem of an artisanal chocolate shop! Highly recommended for anyone wanting to experience the real heart of Gent.Fantastic tour through Gent
Herb & Bonnie
15 July 2025
We booked Benedict for a 3 hour tour of Ghent, and were so glad we did. He is an unusually knowledgeable (official) guide, as well as a kind and considerate person. He met us at the train station, ushered us onto a city tram and away we went straight to the stunning Sunday Flower Market, a real treat. From there, he walked us through a myriad of the sights of gorgeous Ghent. He addressed our concerns about getting lost on the way back and gave us explicit instructions how to return. In addition, he pointed out the best canal cruise to do afterwards. He understood I needed to sit occasionally, and accommodated that request, constantly asking if I was okay. I would would recommend Ben—and he gives you a surprise treat, too! Gorgeous Ghent With Benedick
Jan
13 July 2025
Ben verstaat zijn vak. Met kennis, humor en kunde heeft Ben ons laten kennismaken met Gent. Een stad die je niet zonder gids kunt bezoeken. Ben is een absolute aanrader. Mister Gent
tdkalandyk
6 July 2025
We enjoyed being with Ben very much. He was very knowledgeable. We enjoyed his way of touring us. We would use him again if we came back.
Gijs
12 June 2025
Ben was een brok informatie die op iedere hoek van de straat wel een feitje klaar had. Leuke eet-tips en advies over het bezoeken van het Gents altaarstuk.Veel kennis
Hanif
8 June 2025
We had an absolutely wonderful time exploring Ghent with Benedikt! Over the course of three hours, he managed to show us many hidden gems and share fascinating stories that made the city truly come alive. His passion for Ghent was infectious, and his warmth, humor, and ability to connect with all of us made it an amazing experience. He even brought us some specific candy from Ghent (‘red noses’) and treated us to some artisanal chocolates in one of the nicest chocolate shops of Ghent. It was the perfect mix of history, fun facts, and local charm. Benedikt is genuinely a very nice guy, thank you for an unforgettable visit to Ghent. Best wishes, Hanif Unforgettable Ghent Experience!
Jonathan
3 June 2025
Had a great time with Benedikt- gave us a fascinating, entertaining and informative tour around Ghent. A great experience- thanks so much! Peace and Love from The Mystical Lamb!! LOL Glorious (albeit rainy) Ghent!
Henrik
26 May 2025
Rob
17 May 2025
Ben turned our day in Ghent into an unforgettable adventure! His knowledge of the city is truly impressive, but what makes him exceptional is how he brings history to life with humor and interactive engagement. He constantly checked if we were paying attention with clever questions and funny quips that kept everyone—even our youngest son—thoroughly engaged throughout the tour. The hidden gems Ben revealed were amazing! He showed us a secret spot behind the Castle of the Counts for perfect photos (tourist-free!), expertly guided us through Saint Bavo's with fascinating insights about the Ghent Altarpiece, and introduced us to Ghent's vibrant street art scene including the must-see Graffiti Alley. His restaurant recommendations were spot-on, and the award-winning local chocolatier he took us to was a delicious highlight! If you want a thorough, fun, and personalized experience of Ghent that goes beyond the typical tourist route, Ben is absolutely your best choice. His passion for his city is contagious!​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Chocolate, Castle Secrets & Street Art
Oliver
3 May 2025
Benedikt hat uns in drei Stunden alle Highlights von Ghent gezeigt, und sehr viele Stellen die sich in keinem Reiseführer befinden. Wir haben die Tour mit Ben an unserem ersten Tag des langen Ghent-Wochenendes gemacht.Benedikt ist ein exzellenter Guide

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