You are Pieter, a proud citizen of one of Europe's great cities. A city of wealth, trade, and fierce independence.
This powerful city just said no to the most powerful man of his time: Emperor Charles V, born in this very city. He demands a war tax to fund his wars. But Ghent refuses, protected by the Calfvel, an ancient charter granting the city its rights and freedoms.
Now the Emperor and his army are marching on the city to bring it to its knees. Can you save it?
How many are playing?
Unlock · €20.99Live in Ghent? The Annual Pass is how locals play · €79.99/yr. See the Annual Pass →
Places you will visit
12
It will take you
127-157 mins
You will walk
3420 steps
Total distance
2.6 km
Made by Charlotte
Charlotte created this quest · the route, the puzzles and the story are theirs.
What you'll actually do
Download the Questo app and unlock the quest. Walk to Sint-Michielsbrug whenever you like · no guide, no group, no time slot.
Solve 12 puzzles hidden in the streets around you. Each one you crack unlocks the next location.
Finish at Stroppendrager and see where you land on the Ghent leaderboard.
Highlights
This is not a legend. It's a true story, told through the eyes of those who lived it. It goes beyond time and beyond the tourist trail, passing iconic landmarks but also quiet streets and hidden corners.
Discover what shaped Ghent and its character. Be swept away, just when you think the story ends, Ghent has one last surprise for you.
Bring your crew
Race to the finish.
Everyone plays on their own phone · race solo, as a couple, or with a crew of any size. First to solve every clue takes the crown.
Adventure
Your pace, no timer
Escape
Beat the clock
Plays offline at your own pace · live group races need a connection.
Final leaderboard
The mission: Your story in Ghent
You are Pieter, a proud citizen of one of Europe's finest cities: Ghent. A city of wealth, trade, and fierce independence.
This powerful city just said no to the most powerful man of his time: Emperor Charles V, born in this very city. He demands a tax to fund his wars. But Ghent refuses, protected by the Calfvel, an ancient charter granting the city its rights and freedom.
Now the Emperor and his army are marching on the city to bring it to its knees. Can you save it?
ABOUT THIS EXPERIENCE
What to expect from A city against an Emperor
Ghent, 3 May 1540. You are Pieter, a proud citizen of one of Europe's great cities. A city of wealth, trade, and fierce independence. This powerful city just said no to the most powerful man of his time: Emperor Charles V, born in this very city. He demands a war tax to fund his wars. But Ghent refuses, protected by the Calfvel, an ancient charter granting the city its rights and freedoms. Now the Emperor and his army are marching on the city to bring it to its knees. Can you save it?
This is not a legend. It's a true story, told through the eyes of those who lived it. It goes beyond time and beyond the tourist trail, passing iconic landmarks but also quiet streets and hidden corners. Discover what shaped Ghent and its character. Be swept away, just when you think the story ends, Ghent has one last surprise for you.
Start: Sint-Michielsbrug. Finish: Stroppendrager. 12 challenges included.
Good to know before you play
- Step Into the Story
- Hidden History
- Family friendly
Tips & Recommendations
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You will be walking throughout the city, so comfortable footwear is essential for enjoying the experience.
Charge Your Phone
Make sure your smartphone is at least 60% charged. The quest runs through the Questo app, and you will be using it throughout.
Check the Weather
This is an outdoor activity. Bring an umbrella or sunscreen depending on the forecast.
Bring a Camera
You will discover photogenic locations and hidden gems perfect for capturing memories.
Stay Hydrated
Bring water, especially during warmer months or longer quests.
Play with Friends
Quests are more fun with friends or family. Each player who wants to play on their own phone needs their own access.
Ratings and Reviews
12 ratings
Schaschleeg
Tiago Sousa
Charlotte
Søren Fogh
sabine
Beat the best: Top Ghent explorers
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Compare Questo vs. Guided Walking Tours
Flexibility
Regular Guided Tours
Fixed schedules & no pausing
Questo
Start, pause, and resume anytime
Privacy
Regular Guided Tours
Crowds of up to 30 strangers
Questo
Private experience for your group only
Pricing
Regular Guided Tours
$30-$40 per person
Questo
Transparent pricing shown before checkout
Availability
Regular Guided Tours
Requires advance booking
Questo
Instant access 24/7/365
Experience
Regular Guided Tours
Passive listening to a guide
Questo
Active gamification; you solve the mystery
| Feature | Regular Guided Tours | Questo |
|---|---|---|
| Flexibility | Fixed schedules & no pausing | Start, pause, and resume anytime |
| Privacy | Crowds of up to 30 strangers | Private experience for your group only |
| Pricing | $30-$40 per person | Transparent pricing shown before checkout |
| Availability | Requires advance booking | Instant access 24/7/365 |
| Experience | Passive listening to a guide | Active gamification; you solve the mystery |
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