ghent beer trip

• Ghent Beer Tasting Tour

Ghent Beer Tasting Tour terug naar infopagina

✓ Guided Beer Tasting Tour (3h) ✓ Discover the city, history and beers of Ghent ✓ Learn to taste beer with 5 exclusive regional beers ✓ All our guides speak English fluently

✓ No cancellation fee until 48h before

In Ghent, beer brewing went hand in hand with religious life. Discover Ghent and its incredibly surprising history during a three-hour beer walk and beer tasting with guide through the city. Five beer tasting sessions and an official BeerWalk glass are included in the price.

To watch this video, please turn on the English subtitles.

Exclusive Beers

Taste very exclusive beers, only available here!

• Sint-Joris Blond
• Flemish Old Style Sour Ale (FLOSS)

The Beer History of Ghent

This beer tour is a perfect way to explore the beer Abbeys and Monasteries where some of the world’s best beers were created. These masterpieces are an important part of the culture and history of Ghent. Throughout the medieval heart of the city and the surrounding less touristic sites, you will discover the history that so deeply engulfs those places.

Beer Tastings at 5 different locations

During the beer tasting sessions, you’ll discover five special beers from brewery Van Steenberge and emerse yourself in stories and anecdotes concerning the religious heritage of the beers and its brewers.

Everyone welcome

Anyone who takes part can decide, at any time during the BeerWalk tour, to have one or more beer tastings replaced by a coffee or a soda of your choice. This way anyone can enjoy the beer stories and the town visit.

Raving 5-star reviews

All fields are mandatory, unless indicated otherwise.

The Brewery

Take a unique city walking tour in Ghent about the city’s history in relation to beer, churches, abbeys and monasteries. A professional beer guide will take you on a three-hour walk. On your way, you will stop at five remarkable tasting locations where you will be able to sample interesting beers.

Participants who don’t drink beer can enjoy the historic stories and unique tasting locations, with soft drinks of their choice.  The walk starts and ends at Sint-Jorishof, opposite Ghent Town Hall.

This year we are paying extra attention to Jan Van Eyck , because there is a remarkable link with beer too. Come and taste the difference!

Practical information

Contact and practical information, opening hours.

Every Friday and Saturday at 14:00 and 19:00 Every Sunday at 14:00 Other times on request

Entrance fee

5 tastings and a unique 15cl BeerWalk tasting glass as a memento included.

Guided tours available in Dutch, English and German.

Contact info The Brewery bvba

The bre­wery bvba.

Hemelshoek 235 2590 Berlaar Belgium

Not to miss in Ghent

Hotel cour st georges.

St Bavo’s Cathedral: majestic tower

Gentse Gidsen

The 23 best Ghent, Belgium breweries and craft beer

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

1 Het Waterhuis aan de Bierkant

2 Dulle Griet

4 Uncle Babe's

5 barrazza café.

Track your travel spending and split costs with friends

Plan your trip. Keep your budget organized. Split the cost between tripmates. Wanderlog does it all.

6 Trappistenhuis

7 de geus van gent, 8 otomat gent, 9 lepelblad, 10 café theatre, 11 de walrus, 13 chapeluur gent, 14 trollekelder, 15 kaffee de planck.

Don’t forget to pack anything

Stay organized with a to-do list, packing list, shopping list, any kind of list.

17 De Alchemist

18 café 't kanon, 19 de karper, 20 rock circus, 21 jan van gent, 22 de brouwzaele, 23 de bompa, top searches in ghent, popular road trips from ghent, what's the weather like in ghent.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Ghent for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Ghent in January
• Weather in Ghent in February
• Weather in Ghent in March
• Weather in Ghent in April
• Weather in Ghent in May
• Weather in Ghent in June
• Weather in Ghent in July
• Weather in Ghent in August
• Weather in Ghent in September
• Weather in Ghent in October
• Weather in Ghent in November
• Weather in Ghent in December

All road trips from Ghent

• Ghent to London drive
• Ghent to Paris drive
• Ghent to Amsterdam drive
• Ghent to Rome drive
• Ghent to Barcelona drive
• Ghent to Berlin drive
• Ghent to Prague drive
• Ghent to Dublin drive
• Ghent to Edinburgh drive
• Ghent to Madrid drive
• Ghent to Milan drive
• Ghent to Florence drive
• Ghent to Vienna drive
• Ghent to Cologne drive
• Ghent to Venice drive
• Ghent to Budapest drive
• Ghent to Rotterdam drive
• Ghent to Munich drive
• Ghent to Copenhagen drive
• Ghent to Lisbon drive
• Ghent to York drive
• Ghent to Hamburg drive
• Ghent to Brighton drive
• Ghent to Birmingham drive
• Ghent to Liverpool drive
• Ghent to Bath drive
• Ghent to Istanbul drive
• Ghent to Turin drive
• Ghent to Blackpool drive

Explore nearby places

• Destelbergen
• Sint-Martens-Latem
• Dikkelvenne
• Sint-Lievens-Houtem

All related maps of Ghent

• Map of Ghent
• Map of Ledeberg
• Map of Destelbergen
• Map of Drongen
• Map of Merelbeke
• Map of Evergem
• Map of Sint-Martens-Latem
• Map of Melle
• Map of Lochristi
• Map of De Pinte
• Map of Lovendegem
• Map of Deurle
• Map of Laarne
• Map of Nazareth
• Map of Wetteren
• Map of Oosterzele
• Map of Nevele
• Map of Semmerzake
• Map of Kalken
• Map of Zomergem
• Map of Ertvelde
• Map of Astene
• Map of Waarschoot
• Map of Dikkelvenne
• Map of Wachtebeke
• Map of Deinze
• Map of Oordegem
• Map of Lembeke
• Map of Sint-Lievens-Houtem
• Map of Eeklo

Ghent throughout the year

• Ghent in January
• Ghent in February
• Ghent in March
• Ghent in April
• Ghent in May
• Ghent in June
• Ghent in July
• Ghent in August
• Ghent in September
• Ghent in October
• Ghent in November
• Ghent in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Ghent?

Get inspired for your trip to Ghent with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Ghent Itinerary
• 2-Day Ghent Itinerary
• 3-Day Ghent Itinerary
• 4-Day Ghent Itinerary
• 5-Day Ghent Itinerary

• Itinerary + map in one view
• Live collaboration
• Auto-import hotels and reservations
• Optimize your route
• Offline access on mobile
• See time and distance between all your places

• Parking in Ghent
• Recycling in Ghent
• Low emission zone in Ghent
• Moving house in Ghent and updating your address
• Rental agreements: an overview

TheSquare.Gent

Your guide to expat life in gent, belgium, best brewery day trips from ghent.

• Food & drink

In 2017, Belgian beer was added to the UNESCO World Heritage list . So next time your friends and family come to visit, why not take them on a cultural day out. Here are our 10 favourite brewery day trips from Ghent. Each one has info on how to get there if you’re without a BOB (the Belgian concept of designated driver). Most tours are available in Dutch, English and French, with some breweries also offering German on request. Either check the breweries’ websites or specify when you book. And if the tours whet your appetite, then check out the bars and shops in Ghent or best summertime terraces where you are most likely to find the full range of this national treasure.

Gruut, Gent

It makes sense to start in Ghent itself. The main brewery in the city, Gruut has been producing beer – interestingly with a mixture of herbs (a Gruut in medieval times) instead of hops – since 2009 . It now has five different tipples – Ghent Gruut White , Ghent Gruut Blonde , Ghent Gruut Amber , Ghent Gruut Brown and Ghent Gruut Inferno . You’re bound to have spotted 1 or 2 of these on a Ghent cafe menu.

Getting there from Ghent : Well, this is the easy one – it’s tucked inside Baudelopark in Ghent city centre. 

Halve Maan, Bruges

The undeniable fascinating fact about the Halve Maan brewery in Bruges is that it transports its beer 3.2km from the original, city-centre and centuries-old brewery to its modern bottling plant via underground pipes. Underground beer pipes, whatever next! The tour here takes you through a beautiful building with stunning views at the end. Enough to work up a thirst to try their famous Brugse Zot beer.

Getting there from Ghent : Train to Bruges, about 40 mins

Delirium Tremens (Huyghe Brewery), Melle

Although the name might not be so familiar, you’re bound to recognise the Delirium Tremens pink elephants that cover the Huyghe Brewery buildings in Melle. Wearing a fetching pink safety jacket, you’ll get a guided walk through the whole production process. As the tours are only available on weekdays (when production is in full flow) you get to see the robots in action, spinning their arms to clean, photograph and refill barrels over and over again. Bottles being topped with thousands of pink elephant bottle caps at lightning speed is nothing short of hypnotic. At the end of the tour, grab a glass and tuck in – the ‘tasters’ are generous.

Getting there from Ghent : Train to Melle, or buses 28, 94, 96, 44, around 20 mins

Microbrewery Keun

A small, artisanal microbrewery in the heart of the Flemish Ardennes, Keun   has only been officially recognised since 2016. Twice a month, 200 litres are produced here. On a guided tour, Gert the owner will take you through the production process, right from the moment the hops are grown on site (pictured).

Getting there from Ghent : Train/bus to Oudenaarde and then bus 61 or 63 to Ronser Populierstraat, just over an hour

3 Fonteinen, South-West of Brussels

If you like your lambics, the 3 fonteinen brewery is one of the best brewery day trips from Ghent for you. Disaster nearly struck in 2009 for this small, family-run brewery south-west of Brussels, when over 13,000 bottles exploded after a thermostat malfunction. Learn how they recovered, with the help of over 100 volunteers, to go on and create a unique set of blends known as the Armand 4’ .  

Getting there from Ghen t : Train to Brussels Midi, then tram S2 to Lot, about an hour

Bourgogne des Flandres, Bruges

Bourgogne des Flandres was originally brewed by the Den Os brewery, which was forced to close its doors in 1957 after the damage of two world wars, and the growing popularity of German lager. But this beer didn’t give in so easily – different breweries kept the family recipe alive over the years, and since 2015, Bourgogne des Flandres has been brewed again, at its original location, in the heart of Bruges. On a tour here learn how to tap beer digitally and take a bottle home with your picture on it. Your visit finishes with a toast overlooking the canals of Bruges’ old town.

Dilewyns (Vicaris), Dendermonde

The family-run brewery Dilewyns is relatively new on the scene, having only started producing Vicaris in 2005. It’s now run by Vincent and his two daughters Anne-Cathérine and Claire, This makes it one of the best brewery day trips from Ghent for that family-run feel. All Vicaris beers are brewed 100% naturally. 

Getting there from Gent : Train to Dendermonde and then bus 252 or 257 to Dendermonde Korte Dijkstraat, around 1 hour

Duvel Moortgat, Between Antwerp and Brussels

Duvel , probably one of the most recognisable Belgian beers, is produced at the Moortgat brewery , about 50km from Ghent. On a tour, a professional beer sommelier will take you around, tell you about the history of the brewery, show you the bottlery and teach you how to correctly sample this classic beer that was the first to be served in the now customary tulip-shaped glass.

Getting there from Ghent : Train to Londerzeel and then bus 250 or 460 to Breendonk Molenheide, 1 hour 15 minutes

Het Anker, Mechelen

Het Anker is one of the oldest breweries (1471) in Belgium and is still based in the city’s beguinage where patients used to drink the beer as it was ‘cleaner’ than water. A tour takes you through the historic buildings and onto the rooftop to see how the beer used to be cooled in the open air. You can admire the views over Mechelen before heading down into the cellars where barrels now store whisky. This brewery even has an on-site hotel – handy to know if you take a liking to the Gouden Carolus !

Getting there from Ghent : Train to Mechelen, just over 1 hour

Westvleteren, Near the French Border

It would be rude not to include what some consider the best beer in the world. Unfortunately there’s no tour, but this doesn’t stop plenty of people embarking on a pilgrimage 100km west of Ghent to make Westvleteren one of the best brewery day trips from Ghent. You can read all about this brewery in our dedicated Westvleteren post.

Have you been on any brewery day trips from Ghent that you’d recommend? Or perhaps you’ve run around them all at the annual June Brewery Marathon ? Let us know in our comments section below.

Main Image: inside Dilewyns (Vicaris) in Dendermonde

Author: Heather Sills

3 thoughts on “ Best Brewery Day Trips From Ghent ”

Great list! If you are a fan of Gueuze or Lambic beers, I recommend the tour and tasting at Cantillon Brewery in Brussels.

Thanks for the tip Rebecca! I’m personally not a fan of the ‘sour’ beers, but I think they’re increasing in popularity, so this would be a great trip for someone who likes geuzes/lambics

• Pingback: Top 10 Day Trips from Ghent (Belgium)

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Discover Ghent Beer World With A Chocolate Pairing By A Young Local - With Reviews & Ratings

• Ghent Tours
• Walking & Biking Tours
• Walking Tours

Discover Ghent Beer World With A Chocolate Pairing By A Young Local

• See more images

Tour Information

Key Details

• Mobile Voucher Accepted
• Hotel pickup Available
• Duration: 3 Hrs
• Language: English
• Departure Time : 1:30pm or 4:30pm
• Return Details : Botermarkt, 9000 Gent, Belgium
• Cancellation Policy : This activity is non-refundable Tours booked using discount coupon codes will be non refundable.

Know More about this tour

Meet your guide and small group of no more than 16 people on the stairs of this restaurant/hotel place in the heart of the city center. First, youll explore the guide's favorite beer shop to find out your Belgian beers perception. Its one of our ways to make this tour more personalised! The three locations youll visit range from trendy to a medieval hidden gem, where youll sample a selection of high quality brews, with a guarantee of every variety of Belgian brew and learn why Belgium got this famous. Stories of our secret recipes and anecdotes from the Middle ages will all be part of this amazing storytelling. Pairing with cheese, artisan chocolate and other local delicacies guarantee you a way to discover more of the local food market. Own creation of this food pairing makes this experience very exclusive, followed by an original beer game to create a smooth atmosphere. Here 100 m further an old historical site will change into a Belgian brewery adventure. We know all their future plans and projects. Lets praise carefully behind the scene of an upcoming new brewery and distillery. At the end, your host- which is your new friend- will be honoured to share you more delicious Belgian beers as a variant on your new favourite Belgian beer! Please, be aware that the tour itinerary can be a little different as we are dependent on opening hours & third party food reservations.

• 5 tasters: exclusive Belgian beers like Trappist, Lambic & Triples
• A taste of local sweet delicacies & artisan chocolate.
• A passionate & local guide who knows more than only Ghent.
• Visit three locations like a hidden gem and/or a craft brewery
• Hotel pick-up and drop-off. If required, then choose for a private tour on our website.
• More languages available on our website. Shared tours happens in English.
• For customised tours like visiting a brewery or chocolateries, book a private tour on our website.
• Our food pairing comes in small sizes, which does not replace a proper meal.

Additional Info

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Minimum age is 18 years

Operated by a multi-lingual guide

A maximum of 15 people per booking

You Might Also Like

• Half-day Tours
• Local Culture & Education Tours
• History & Heritage Tours
• Boat Rentals And Tours
• Outdoor & Nature Tours
• Tickets & Passes
• Luxury & Special Occasions Tours
• Shore Excursions
• Day Trips & Excursions
• Multi Day & Extended Tours
• Private & Custom Tours
• What to do in Ghent
• Best time of year to visit Ghent
• How to reach Ghent
• Restaurants in Ghent
• City Map of Ghent
• Ghent Itineraries
• Ghent Hotels
• Itinerary Planner

Traveler Reviews

Tour with Dries was great. Knowledgeable guide and some great beers. We went back to one of the pubs (Trollekelder) the next day and found they had Westvleteren which was a further recommendation and a rare find so we tried the range which were outstanding. Thanks for the tip Dries.

Dries did a fabulous job of showing us some of the less well known sites of ghent along with some great beer and food combos. We did the evening tour, definitely eat dinner before the tour.

Fantastic tour. Some of the beers came with a chocolate pairing which was very nice. Liselot is a great guide and really makes the tour fun as well as informative. We had a good drink and learnt about the different types of beers and the brewing process, as well as the brewing traditions in Belgium. Worth a visit if you are in Ghent.

We did the tour with Dries and 6 other people, and had great time. It was a nice balance of history, beer, culture, and just information about Ghent and Belgium. We really loved how knowledgeable and friendly Dries was. He really was so personable and receptive to everyone in our group. It was a weird time to take a tour as it was a few days after Gentse Feesten and a lot of places were closed, but Dries was able to easily adapt and make it work. We learned a lot and took some of his great suggestions for stops after the tour ended. Recommend for anyone looking to add a fun addition to their trip to Ghent.

An excellent introduction to Ghent! The tour offered just the right amount of beer knowledge, town history, and chocolates. Due to my gluten intolerance, they were able to accommodate. The whole experience with Deies as tour guide with a wealth of knowledge has now made Ghent my favorite city is Belgium!

Dries was an excellent and friendly guide! Not only did we have an interactive tasting experience in a few different bars around the city, but he was also enthusiastic about explaining and answering questions about the history and current production of Belgian beers. We also got a little history of the city as well. By the end of the tour, many of us were lingering around, so it was a nice opportunity to socialize with others too. Highly recommend this tour, one of my favorites I've taken. My father who is not typically a fan of Belgian beers said it was the highlight of his visit, so that says something 😁

The event was canceled with only 24 hours notice, so the late notice to not give me an opportunity to replace the outing.

Le seul bémol est que j avais précisé que je voulais une visite en français . Par ailleurs sur mes billets il était bien indiqué que c était en français. Malheureusement la visite s est faite en anglais !

Wir waren eine kleine Gruppe, nur 6 Personen aus 3 Kontinenten. Haben uns gefreut, so viele nette und lustige Menschen kennenlernen zu dürfen. Dries kannte sich gut in der Stadt aus und hat uns 4 Kneipen gezeigt, 5 Biere und den Entstehungsprozess näher gebracht. Ab und zu durften wir Schokolade zum Bier probieren, die besonders gut dazu passte. Wir danken Dries für die tolle Führung. Hatten sehr viel Spaß und würden diese Führung wieder buchen.

I had more fun than I even expected! Dries was very knowledgeable in the city and also the delicious beers. I met so many fun people and had lots of laughs. 10/10!

• United Kingdom
• Curated Stays
• Wine Travel
• About Isabelle
• Work with Us

2 days In Ghent – A Ghent City Break Guide For Foodies & Culture Lovers

• Isabelle Hoyne
• April 12, 2024

** Disclosure: some of the links on this site are affiliate links and should you make a purchase through these, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!**

Easily reached by train from Brussels, a Ghent city break is both accessible and rewarding. Steeped in history, this atmospheric, canal-filled university city is also home to a plethora of top quality restaurants. Through this guide, discover how to make the most of 2 days in Ghent. 

Our Ghent city break was almost chosen on a whim. In preceding years, my annual pilgrimage to a European Christmas market had brought me to Germany and this time, I wanted to branch out a little.

Belgium was the country of choice and having visited both Bruges and Brussels before, the pin found itself being stuck firmly in the map over the enchanting city of Ghent.

A highly aesthetic city interwoven with canals, its beautiful, chocolate-box buildings and cobbled streets were the initial draw.

Once flights were booked and the research started in earnest, however, I was – quite literally – salivating at our impending visit, as rather unknowingly I discovered that Ghent is bursting at the seams with talented chefs and copious amounts of drool-worthy establishments, many offering modern takes on Belgian food. 

Ghent hits a sweet spot in terms of being the perfect location for a weekend city break. It’s compact, so it’s easy to get around.

It also contains just the right balance of having enough to see to keep you entertained for a couple of days, without you feeling like you’ve missed out on some key highlights by the time that you leave, a problem faced when visiting some of its larger counterparts around Europe.

A great place to visit in winter too, the city is home to a magical Christmas market during Yuletide season and offers cool, crisp weather that would coax even the hardest of hearts into embracing Ghent’s cosy bars and cafes.  

Outside of its Christmassy offerings, however, Ghent is hugely worthy of a visit at any time of the year. The city was once a major port city, and its location at the confluence of two rivers made it a strategic point during the Middle Ages.

In turn, Ghent became very wealthy and as a result, is home to beautifully distinct architecture in the form of former mansions, a medieval castle, Gothic churches and one of the world’s most important pieces of art, the Ghent Altarpiece. 

Have I caught your attention yet? Good, because here is a complete guide to Ghent for foodies and culture lovers. I hope you will be as pleasantly surprised by Ghent as I was!

Essential links for booking your Ghent trip

Search for and book flights with Kiwi

Search for and book train tickets with Omio

Book taxis & transfers with GetTransfer

Top-rated Ghent experiences:

☆  Ghent Bike Tour

☆  Ghent canal cruise boat tour

☆  Ghent chocolate tour (a real crowd pleaser)

☆  Belgian beer tasting tour (great for groups and beer lovers)

Top places to stay in Ghent : 1898 The Post (a stylish, city-centre boutique hotel), Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel , Burgstraat 17 (restored loft in Patrician building, great for groups)

Don’t forget to pack : DK Eyewitness Travel Guide Brussels, Bruges, Ghent and Antwerp: Bruges, Ghent & Antwerp // Universal travel adapter  //  these **fantastic** compression packing cubes  //

Table of Contents

The burning question – should you visit bruges or ghent, how to get to ghent, getting around during your ghent city break, maximising your 2 days in ghent – what to do in ghent, where to eat and drink in ghent, where to stay in ghent, only have one day in ghent what to see in ghent in 1 day, find this ghent city break guide useful please share or pin for later.

Since visiting briefly as a teenager, I have since, on several occasions, bypassed Ghent in favour of neighbouring Bruges.

There is a lot of hype around Bruges and yes, this fabulously romantic and slightly ethereal town and its medieval buildings does live up to the hype, but Bruges, whilst undeniably beautiful, can also get a bit over-crowded and is rather expensive to boot.

Whether you should choose Ghent or Bruges will come down to your personal preferences. While I still 100% recommend a stay in Bruges, if you are after a more relaxed trip and slightly hipper vibes, then you cannot go wrong with 48 hours in Ghent. 

We visited in December to attend the Ghent Christmas market, but in fact, the Christmas market was not the highlight of our trip. We discovered a captivating, old world city, that is also a buzzing university town with a very hip edge and an absolute plethora of top quality to places to eat.

I couldn’t recommend Ghent enough for a city break. It makes a fantastic alternative to Bruges and is, in my opinion, one of the best destinations in Belgium for a city break.

One of Ghent’s most compelling propositions is simply how easy it is to reach through Belgium’s train network. The most likely destinations that you’ll be travelling to Ghent from are going to be Brussels or Bruges – I go through both options below. 

Getting from Brussels to Ghent by train

Getting to ghent from brussels airport.

Getting to Ghent from Brussels airport is very straightforward. There are two separate train journeys involved, but the connection is not a complex one. Tickets cost around €36 return. 

Step one is getting the train from Brussels Zaventem Airport into Brussels city centre. The train station is quite literally in the basement of the airport and there are lots of regular trains that take you into Brussels and beyond.

Take the lifts or escalator from the arrivals hall in order to get to the train station. Then, you’re going to take a train from the airport to Brussels Midi. At Brussels Midi, you will change train for the one to Ghent (going in Bruges/Brugge direction). From the airport, the train journey to Midi is around 15/20 mins.

When you reach Midi, you’ll then have around 10-20 minutes to find your platform for the train to Ghent (all times I’ve been it has been the adjacent platform – if you’re confused, just ask someone).  Once you’re onboard, the train to Ghent from Brussels Midi shouldn’t take more than 30 minutes. 

Top tip | While you can purchase train tickets at Brussels airport, I find the ticket machines at the station somewhat confusing to use and understand, so my advice is to buy your ticket online in advance to minimise the stress that purchasing at the station has caused me in the past. 

You can search schedules and book tickets online here .   

Getting to Ghent from Brussels City Centre

There are a number of train stations in Brussels from which you can take the connecting train to Ghent (Central, Sud, Nord & Midi), depending on where you are travelling from within Brussels city. However if you’re travelling to Ghent from Brussels city centre, then you’ll likely be coming from one of either:  

• Midi – approx. 30 minutes journey time to Ghent
• Central – approx. 35 minutes journey time to Ghent

Tickets cost around €23 return from both and the trains running to Ghent from these stations are direct. 

Search schedules and book tickets for Brussels city centre to Ghent here.

Getting from Bruges to Ghent by train

It is so very easy to skip between Ghent and Bruges via train. The Ghent Bruges train runs extremely frequently throughout the day and the journey time is less than 30 minutes between the two. The round trip costs €18 for a return ticket. 

Search schedules and book tickets for the Bruges to Ghent train here. 

Getting from Ghent train station to city center

Once you arrive in Ghent, the train station is a little outside the old city centre so factor this into your plans, as you may not fancy doing the trip on foot. There is a tram stop and buses outside the station, but it was late when we arrived and there were very few of these running.

If there are trams, buy your ticket from the machines directly outside the train station – if you walk a little further there are none to be found on the street, and you can’t board the tram without a ticket.

We also couldn’t find or order a taxi (apps like FREE NOW and Uber are banned in Ghent) so you may need to walk (like us – around a 25 minute walk to city centre, with bags), or arrange your taxi transfer in advance. My go-to for taxi transfers is always GetTransfer . 

We stayed in the old town near the Gravensteen and found we could walk everywhere we needed to go. There is however a comprehensive tram service and also buses around the city if your mobility is limited.

I was pleasantly surprised, however, to see that most people in Ghent cycle – there are thousands of bikes and very few cars in the city!

Gluttony formed the basis of most of our activities during our 2 days in Ghent , but when we weren’t eating we found that there were plenty of Ghent things to do.

Below are my top things to do in Ghent, Belgium during your visit. There is a wonderful atmosphere around the old town, so move slowly, take it all in and stop off wherever takes your fancy.

Discover the historic centre of Ghent

With streets so picture-perfect that they could have been etched by the hand of a Flemish Master, we spent plenty of time ambling around the old town taking in its charms.

In the Middle Ages, Ghent was an extremely important and prominent trading town in Europe and was larger at one point than London was at the time and was second only to Paris in its size.

Its architecture and design is a relic from that time and its wealth and prestige from that era is clearly evidenced by the imposing Gravensteen Castle, its beautifully ornate traders’ houses and its impressive churches and cathedrals.

If you want to learn some more about Ghent’s deep, rich history, then I would suggest taking a tour. Particularly fun, well-reviewed and in keeping with Ghent’s substantial bike population, is this Ghent bike tour . 

Visit St. Bavo’s Cathedral & its famous Ghent alter piece 

Saint Bavo’s Cathedral is an imposing Gothic construct that is home to the famous Ghent Altarpiece by Jan Van Eyck – ‘ The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb ‘. One of the most important pieces of artwork ever to have been produced, it was painted in the 15th century and is composed of 18 separate panels.

While the alter piece is an absolute Ghent must see, don’t come merely to see this masterpiece however, as the whole cathedral is very impressive. They also had a rather large construction of the entire story of the nativity in place of a crib on display when we visited at Christmas-time.

Climb the Belfry Tower for beautiful views of Ghent

A tradition of mine when visiting somewhere new is to climb to its highest point for panoramic views – which is usually attached to a church!

The Belfry, one of the most iconic things to see in Ghent, was unfortunately closed during our 2 days in Ghent, but I’d recommend making the climb if it is open when you go if you would like a good aerial view of the city.

This also isn’t just any old Belfry – you’ll notice that this medieval tower is particularly striking and it is, in fact, a designated UNESCO World Heritage site.

Standing at 91 metres tall and sporting a guilded copper dragon at its pinnacle, Ghent Belfry keeps a watchful eye over the historic city center of Ghent, just as it always has done throughout the centuries.

Discover the sheer delight that is Belgian chocolate through a Ghent chocolate tour

When you visit Ghent, you’ll notice as you make your way around that the city is dotted with chocolate shops, selling the most delectable looking wares.

Top of your Ghent places to visit list should include some of these chocolate shops, as this isn’t just any old chocolate, but amongst some of the best in the world and the chocolate on offer is a tourist attraction in itself.

Just as wine has sommeliers, chocolate has its chocolatiers and what better place to learn about the craft that is chocolate making than in one of the best chocolate making countries on the globe! 

The best way to discover Ghent’s chocolate is to undertake a Ghent chocolate tour with an expert.

On this Ghent chocolate tour , you’ll be pointed towards the best Ghent chocolate shops (where you can sample a sweet treat or two for yourself) along with getting an overview of the city too – sounds like a win-win to me! 

Learn about the gruesome history of the Graventseen, one of the best places to visit in Ghent

I’m going to go as far as saying that our tour of the Gravensteen , or Castle of the Counts, was the best audio tour that I’ve ever done. As Ghent museums go, this is an extremely interesting one and it is by far one of the best things to do in Ghent!

Built originally as a defensive fortress, it grew into something far more sinister and became synonymous with torture and abuse of power in Ghent, so much so that by the end of the 19th century, the people of Ghent actually wanted to tear it down due to all that it represented.

Thankfully, they didn’t, and it is now the most popular of Ghent attractions. 

Admission includes the fantastic, aforementioned audio guide which is narrated by a local comedian, and through humorous anecdotes the guide walks through some of the castle’s dark history.

I thought it was a really novel but simple way to deliver a tour with facts that you actually remember, and found it very amusing to watch people walking around the castle sniggering!

Take a Ghent canal tour

While you can’t beat a Ghent city walk, Ghent is a city of waterways, so what better way to explore the city than to undertake one of its Ghent canal tours . It’s one of the best things in Ghent to do, and you will become acquainted with the city through its series of beautiful canals right from the water.

Jump on a canal cruise, and learn about Ghent’s history and how it rose to prominence as one of the most important trading towns in Europe . Most Ghent boat tours, like this one , will take you through Ghent’s medieval core and past some of its major sights, including the Gravensteen Castle.

If you’re planning your 2 days in Ghent in winter, make sure to wrap up warm! 

 Visit the Graslei and the Korenlei

Translating to “Grass Quay” and “Corn Quay’, these quays run through Ghent’s old, medieval town. It’s a beautiful spot to stroll by the historical buildings along the water’s edge, or to sit out and grab a coffee outdoors and watch the world go by during a weekend in Ghent.

Many of these cafe’s cater well for outdoor visitors during winter too, offering heaters and blankets so you don’t need to compromise on the view!

St. Michael’s Bridge

This beautiful, romantic bridge is the perfect backdrop to any photograph you might want to take as a memento from your 2 days in Ghent.

It’s one of those places to see in Ghent that is pretty hard to miss, as it’s slap bang in the middle of its old city centre. When we visited there was a soft, misty rain that gave the bridge a magical glow.

From this Ghent city centre perch, you will not only get the perfect view of Ghent’s three famous medieval towers, but a wonderful view from all angles of Ghent’s old world charms.

In the centre is also an eye-catching bronze lantern, so this spot definitely tops the list as Ghent’s most aesthetically pleasing location.

Eat, drink and be merry – discover the best Ghent restaurants and bars!

Ghent is positively teeming with amazing restaurants (detailed further below in this post), cool bars and quirky cafes. Whether you want to grab a beer or a coffee, or eat traditional Belgian or Michelin starred meals, you have it all at your disposal in Ghent – and all within a couple of kilometres’ radius!

Go on a Ghent beer tour

In years gone by, the city centre of Ghent boasted many breweries. Over time, these sadly fell by the wayside but today, there has been a resurgence of microbreweries and larger city breweries in the centre of Ghent.

Belgium is renowned for its beer and Ghent is no stranger to this. The best way to discover the beer in Ghent is to visit with a local guide, who is passionate about beer and the brewing process and who will take you to the best breweries and bars in Ghent. 

On this great Ghent beer experience , you will visit the guide’s favourite beer shop, where your perception of Belgian beers will be challenged.

You’ll then visit three very different bars in Ghent, where you will sample a selection of high quality beers, sampling every variety of Belgian beer and discovering why it became so famous. I don’t even think you’d need to be a beer lover to enjoy this one! 

You’ll also visit a local food market, for a pairing with cheese, artisan chocolate and other local delicacies. There is also an original beer game involved in proceedings, along with a brief stop at an up and coming Ghent brewery – this truly is a great Belgian beer experience. 

Walk through the Great Butcher’s Hall (Het Groot Vleeshuis)

One of the more unique spots to incorporate into your Ghent sightseeing, pop your head into the Ghent market hall, which is an old Guild Hall where you will see hams hanging from the rafters of the roof!

It operated as Ghent’s main meat market from medieval times to the late 19th century. Nowadays, however, the hall contains a cafe and some craft shops.

Get lost in the Patershol

This charming area located close to the Gravensteen Castle is a throwback to Ghent’s medieval origins and is the perfect place to explore the narrow streets, grab a beer or a meal in a cosy restaurant and imagine what life in Ghent was like in ages past.

Home now to independent stores, eateries and cafes, discover how this old part of Ghent has been repurposed for modern day living, whilst maintaining its old character.

Delight in the Ghent Christmas Market

I’ve noticed that each Christmas Market that I’ve gone to has its own distinct feature. Ghent’s is its rather eye-catching ferris wheel and the imposing backdrop of St. Bavo’s Cathedal.

If you’re in Ghent at Christmas time, then this is one of the most popular Ghent tourist attractions, so make sure to designate a couple of hours to the Christmas Markets.

The market weaves its way around the Cathedral and the adjoining surroundings of the Korenmarkt. Like any good Christmas Market, there are copious amounts of food stalls and bars, but it took a while before we managed to track down some gluhwein.

When we did, it was served in polystyrene cups, so rather disappointingly, we couldn’t add to our mug collection from last year’s trip to Cologne. But that’s a minor complaint!

When researching Ghent Belgium restaurants, I discovered that it has not one, not two, but SIX Michelin starred restaurants (one of them with two stars). I should have anticipated what this would mean in terms of the wider context of gastronomy in Ghent, but the city is quite literally a foodie’s paradise!

You could actually spend a week tasting food in Ghent and still not have sampled all worthwhile restaurants. Below are the places to eat in Ghent where we at at, along with some further choices that we didn’t get to this time round. Happy eating!

Where to eat in Ghent – the best restaurants in Ghent

Publiek – this neighbourhood restaurant has very laid back vibes and delivered exceptional food in a very non-stuffy atmosphere. Great wine, fabulous service and most deserving of its Michelin star.

Very reasonably priced too considering the quality. We ordered a la carte but the tasting menu was around €70.

Taxi’s Fine Dining Garage – you will say ‘wow’ a few times during a visit to Taxi’s and at least two of those will happen when you first enter the building, and then again when you enter the restaurant.

This is fine dining for seafood lovers in an amazing setting (a converted taxi garage) with an exquisitely decorated bar. Definitely a place to dress up for and an experience you won’t forget.

t’Koningshuis – sometimes, only a burger will do! We ate here when we arrived late in the evening and boy were the burgers good! They have a large range of different burgers and vegetarian burgers too.

In a lovely cosy setting in an old building beside a canal – we sat in the window and watched the world go by. Apparently the best burgers in Ghent, and I wouldn’t dispute this claim!

Labath – a cool little spot for breakfast/brunch serving great coffee, we found this cafe to be the perfect place to start off the day.

Frites Atelier – a complete tourist trap, but if you like frites then look no further!

Where to drink in Ghent –  the best bars in Ghent

De Alchemist – located just across from the Gravensteen this is a cosy little spot with quirky interiors and a wide range of gin for all my fellow G&T lovers out there.

Bar Win – a buzzing place for wine drinkers that was always full. Tasty bites also served onsite.

Additional restaurants in Ghent

As I’ve already mentioned, you are really spoiled for choice in Ghent so I’d feel remiss not to mention some other restaurants in this Ghent city break guide that I would have eaten at had we had more time there.

Restaurants in Ghent that also made my shortlist are:

OAK Restaurant – a fine dining, Michelin star restaurant in Ghent serving up contemporary dishes created using seasonal produce, on a fixed menu basis.

On the higher end of the price scale, OAK services 7 or 8 course dinner menus, starting at €99. If you would prefer, lunch offers a more affordable proposition, with more of a choice in respect to the number of courses, starting at €42 for 3 courses.

Souvenir – serving up a creative menu that is built around vegetables and sea produce, where meat is only served as an accent to the dishes. Make sure to book well in advance!

Meme Gusta – come here to try Belgian/Flemish cuisine. Always buzzing when we walked by and located in a handy spot close to the old town centre and within a few minutes walk of the Gravensteen Castle.

Epiphany’s Kitchen – if you are on the hunt for a vegan or vegetarian restaurant in Ghent, then this is your answer! A healthy restaurant in Ghent, with exquisite interiors where the menu focuses on vegetables. Meat, however, is also on the menu.

LOF Restaurant – an exceptionally elegant restaurant in the old city centre of Ghent. Local ingredients used with a modern twist after the ‘gastro-bar’ concept, with extremely stylish decor.

Where to have brunch in Ghent

Luv L’oeuf – where to go for breakfast all day in Ghent (and also, a boozy brunch in Ghent!). The giveaway is in the name – like all good brunch menus, eggs feature heavily in its dishes.

Cocotine Coffee – girly, flowery, pink, pastel creations form the core of this brunch spot in Ghent! An extremely aesthetically pleasing decor (for those with feminine taste), which prides itself on its coffee.

Some great Ghent apartments

Verne dreams.

Luxury boutique apartment in Gent, Belgium. Uniquely decorated, each suite benefits from extra long beds, minbars and a seating area with a flat screen digital TV. Located in the centre of historic Ghent, just 500m from the Belfort. 

Burgstraat 17

Burgstraat 17 is an historic Patrician building built in 1515. This apartment in Ghent has been lovingly restored, with the sole purpose of keeping the soul and respecting the history and grandeur of the property.

Featuring exposed wooden beams, with two bedrooms this Ghent apartment is perfect for 4 people. 

Loft in historic house 

Newly renovated loft in a historic house in the heart of Ghent. Very close to the historical center within walking distance to many of Ghent’s main sights, but still located in a quiet area.

With 4 bedrooms and sleeping up to 9 people, this Ghent vacation rental is perfect for a group of friends or a family. 

The best Ghent hotels

If you would prefer to stay in a hotel, then I would recommend either of these two luxury hotels in Ghent:

PIllows Grand Boutique Hotel

Located in a grand mansion within walking distance of the historic city centre, and decorated with a contemporary edge that is sympathetic to the features of the building. A stylish hotel that features a sauna and spa pool onsite, together with a beautiful courtyard garden.

1898 The Post

Featuring mature, sophisticated and atmospheric interiors, this beautifully decorated hotel in Ghent is located in a former Post Office, an historic and iconic building right in the heat of Ghent’s old historic centre.

It’s very doable to see a lot of Ghent in a day. With frequent trains running and the journey taking less than an hour, it is very straightforward to undertake a Ghent day trip from Brussels. If you are really tight for time you can even do Brussels to Ghent to Bruges very easily in one day, with a few hours spent in each. 

To get the most out of Ghent in one day, remember that you have less than 24 hours in Ghent so arrive early, using the morning to stroll the streets around the Patershol, the Graslei and Korenlei and the Korenmarkt.

Pop your head into St Bavo’s Cathedral and climb the Belfry if it is open. Make sure to also take your photo on St. Michael’s Bridge as part of your Ghent 1 day itinerary!

One of the best things to do in Ghent in one day, is to indulge in the city’s gastronomic delights and stop off in one of the restaurants I have recommended above for lunch. When you have had your fill, hop on a boat for a Ghent canal cruise to admire this beautiful city from the water.

Once you are done, round off your Ghent day trip with a tour of the fascinating Gravensteen castle. This is definitely one of the best things to do in Ghent, so I would not leave it off your Ghent itinerary!

Pop into one of Ghent’s many cafes for a quick pick me up after your visit, before making your way back to the train station to catch your return train from Ghent to Brussels.

It’s a pretty jam-packed itinerary, but due to the city’s relatively compact nature you’ll both see a lot of, and really get a feel for, Ghent’s unique atmosphere during a day trip. 

Planning a city break in Europe? You might also like these posts:

SEVILLE | 2 Days In Seville – Getting To The Heart of Andalusia’s Capital City

DUBLIN | Best 2 Days In Dublin Itinerary – A Local’s Guide To Dublin’s Fair City

FLORENCE | How To Spend 2 Days In Florence – A Comprehensive Guide

LISBON | Lisbon In 2 Days – The Ultimate Luxury Guide (+ Foodie Tips!)

SIENA | The Perfect Way To Spend A Day In Siena, Italy

Related Topics

• Itineraries

Hi there! I'm Isabelle, aficionado of immersive travel experiences and unique, luxurious hotels. You'll most likely find me camera in hand, or nerding out on research in advance of my next trip. A major foodie, history and scenery lover, nothing makes me happier than soaking in the atmosphere and culture of the destination I'm visiting.

You May Also Like

20 best sri lanka safari hotels across 6 national parks.

• April 26, 2024
• Lisbon & Tagus

Is Sintra Worth Visiting? 12 Pros, 5 Challenges + Top Tips

• March 5, 2024
• French Riviera

Where to Stay on the French Riviera: 11 Best Locations (& Hotels)

• February 29, 2024

Input your search keywords and press Enter.

48 hours in Ghent – A 2 day Itinerary

With a picturesque French background, a vibey city life similar to that of Barcelona and architectural wonders reminiscent of Amsterdam, this city in Belgium is highly underrated and should definitely be added to your European summer travel list.

For all the Harry Potter lovers, this place makes you feel as though you’re wandering through Hogwarts and Hogsmeade . We’re heading to Ghent, Belgium.

This 2 day itinerary for Ghent will have you eating your way through the Ghent Market Hall, visiting the Gravensteen Castle, admiring the St. Bavo’s Cathedral, strolling along Graslei and Korenlei, sipping a Belgian beer at a local pub.

As well as exploring the Ghent City Museum (STAM), discovering the vibrant street art scene, taking a boat tour, visiting the Huis van Alijn Museum, walking through the picturesque Patershol neighborhood, and traversing the Belfry of Ghent. 

The most exciting part? We’ll see all of this within 48 hours and find out why Ghent is worth visiting. Let the Ghent city break begin!

Plan your trip?

Avoid hidden fees in the exchange rate while withdrawing from millions of ATMs abroad, paying in restaurants and shops, and buying your accommodation and flights using the Wise Card . You can hold up to 40+ currencies at once to spend in in over 150 countries, and convert them in real time with the free Wise app.

Need help planning your trip from start to finish? Check out these helpful links:

• Cheap flights
• Savings on accommodation from hostels to luxury hotels
• Affordable car rental options
• Affordable sightseeing tours and day trips
• Travel Adapter – All in one so you don’t have to carry a bunch around
• Don’t be silly and forget Travel Insurance ! Get hurt and you’ll regret it…

This post contains some affiliate links for your convenience. Click here to read my full disclosure policy. You can also read our content/editorial policy here .

Table of Contents

Overview Of 2 Days In Ghent Itinerary 

Day 1 in ghent, historic centre of ghent, ghent market hall, gravensteen castle, st. bavo’s cathedral, graslei and korenlei.

• Local Belgian Beer

Day 2 in Ghent

• Ghent City Museum 
• Huis van Alijn Museum
• Ghent’s Street Art
• Ghent Boat Tour

Patershol Neighborhood 

Belfry of ghent.

First up on the Ghent itinerary is The historic center of Ghent, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It was designated as a World Heritage Site in 1998 for its remarkable blend of architectural styles and its rich cultural heritage, making it the perfect first stop in your exploration of Ghent.

To kick off the rest of your day, we’re heading for a global brunch at Ghent Market Hall. 

Ghent Market Hall, or “Gentse Feesten” as it is known locally, is a bustling market located in the historic city center. Built in the early 20th century, it was originally a meat market and has since been transformed into a food lover’s paradise. 

The market features over 100 stalls selling a variety of local specialties such as cheeses, meats, chocolates, and fresh produce from the surrounding countryside. Visitors can sample and purchase regional delicacies like cuberdons (cone-shaped candies), Tierenteyn mustard, and Ganda ham. 

The market hall also has several restaurants and cafes, serving everything from traditional Flemish stews to French dishes, Asian salads, Spanish tapas and hearty Italian delicacies.

The building’s jaw-dropping Art Nouveau architecture and colorful, stained glass windows add to its charm, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.

The market is open every day except Monday and is a great way to experience local cuisine with international influence crafted by the Ghent, Belgium locals.

Fancy a trip back in time to the medieval age? Next up on the itinerary is The Gravensteen Castle . Located in the historic city center of Ghent, Belgium lies a medieval fortress that dates back to the 12th century.

Originally built as the residence of the Counts of Flanders, the castle served as a military stronghold, a courthouse, and a prison over the years.

You can explore the castle’s multiple century-old rooms, including the great hall, the chapel, the torture chamber, and the armory.

You can also take a look at the weapons used during the battle ages and ponder which one you’d use if you were to lead an army into battle.

The castle also hosts a number of events throughout the year, including medieval festivals, jousting tournaments, and theatrical performances.

Moving into the Gothic era, you’ll head over to St. Bavo’s Cathedral – A popular tourist destination that can be found in the city center of Ghent, Belgium. It features a Gothic-style cathedral which has been dedicated to Saint Bavo and is renowned for its stunning architecture and rich collection of art and artifacts. 

One of the cathedral’s most famous works of art is the Ghent Altarpiece. The painting was crafted by Flemish artists Hubert and Jan van Eyck. The altarpiece is known as one of the most notable works of art in European history.

The painting focuses on representing the life of Christ, as well as figures from the Old Testament. Pretty cool, right? You’ll be witnessing art that rivals that of the Mona Lisa.

The cathedral is reminiscent of the castle towers of Hogwarts in both a historical and architectural manner. As you peruse the Gothic walls, you can also take a guided walking tour , which includes a visit to the crypt, where the remains of various bishops and other notable figures can be found and viewed.

Blending the past with the future, we’re taking a stroll through mini Amsterdam as the sun sets over the waterfront.

Graslei and Korenlei are two quays located on the banks of the river Leie in the historic center of Ghent, Belgium.

These canal and waterfront areas are lined with beautifully preserved medieval buildings that have been converted into restaurants, cafes, and shops.

The quays are connected by several bridges, including the iconic St. Michael’s Bridge, which offers stunning views of the river and the surrounding architecture.

Just picture it – eating a local dinner inspired by the past, after a full day of exploring, with a glass of local beer in hand as you watch Ghent come alive at night.

Enjoy an evening filled with music and entertainment, as locals and tourists gather to enjoy the lively atmosphere and sample the local cuisine.

Enjoy a Belgian Beer

As your night evolves, why not try some of Ghent’s traditional beer? You can expect to try a variety of Belgian beers that range from light, refreshing pilsners to rich and complex Trappist ales.

Some of the most popular Ghent beers include the local favorite Gentse Strop, a full-bodied amber beer with a slightly sweet taste, and the refreshing and zesty Gruut Blonde.

Here are three of the best local beer places to visit in Ghent, Belgium:

• De Dulle Griet : Has an extensive selection of Belgian beers, including several local favorites. One of their specialties is the “Max” beer, and comes with some conditions. You have to hand over one of your shoes until you’ve finished your beer.
• Het Waterhuis aan de Bierkant : This lively pub is located on the banks of the river Leie which naturally provides some wonderful views of the sparkling river at night. They have over 150 beers to choose from, ranging from local and regional brews.
• Trollekelder : To top off our medieval day, this unique and atmospheric pub is located in a medieval cellar and is decorated with a range of artwork and sculptures from the past, giving you a fully immersive village-like experience. They also have a selection of beers that are rare and hard to find elsewhere.

If you’d like to try more than one Belgian beer location, you’ll want to check out the Ghent Beer Walk . The guided walking tour is led by a knowledgeable local who shares insight into the brewing process and the history of beer in Ghent.

As you make your way through a village of beer breweries, you’ll be given the chance to sample a variety of beers and learn about the different styles and flavors.

The tour typically lasts around three hours and is a great way to experience the best of Ghent’s beer culture. Prepare yourself to become a beer connoisseur. Just like Pink! , we’ll raise a glass to that!

Ghent City Museum & Huis van Alijn Museum

Today we’re starting off with an educational tour of Ghent at the Ghent City Museum. The museum is housed in a beautifully restored 14th-century monastery complex, which has been transformed into a modern and interactive exhibition space. You’ll learn about the city’s medieval past, its role in the Industrial Revolution, and its cultural heritage.

The museum also boasts an interactive experience known as the  “Ghent Altarpiece Experience,” which is a multimedia exhibit that offers a detailed look at the history and restoration of one of the world’s most famous works of art.

The Ghent City Museum is perfect for those wanting an in depth guide to the city they’re visiting and can be explored by all, no matter the age.

Huis van Alijn Museum houses a multitude of exhibits that feature Ghent’s traditional Flemish culture. You’ll learn about traditional fashion, cuisine, entertainment and leisure through the ages.

Discover Ghent’s Street Art

Sticking with culture and art on the 2 day Ghent itinerary, which if you haven’t noticed by now is an integral part of Ghent, you absolutely must take a walk through the quaint streets to absorb some of the most iconic, vibrant street art in the world.

A variety of street artists have painted the walls and streets of Ghent’s most popular walkways, dedicating their best artwork to the city where they found inspiration from. 

One of the most popular areas for street art in Ghent is the Werregarenstraat, also known as the “Graffiti Street.” This narrow alleyway is covered in colorful tags and murals, which change regularly as new artists add their own contributions.

Other noteworthy streets filled with an abundance of art are the Sint-Amandsberg neighborhood and the area around Dok Noord. All of which is accessible via self-guidance or you can book a walking tour with an a rtsy pro. 

Interestingly, many of the city’s murals and installations are commissioned by the city government, which encourages and supports the development of the street art scene. 

Ghent From a Different Perspective

Perhaps it’s time to take a breather and drift along the canals of Ghent? Next up on the Ghent extravaganza is The Ghent Boat Tour .

From aboard, you’ll see the city from various waterways that look like Gothic Venice. The tour typically takes around 40-50 minutes and covers a distance of approximately 4 kilometers.

The boat departs from the Graslei, one of the city’s most scenic areas, and travels along the Leie River, passing by several notable landmarks, including the Castle of the Counts, the St. Bavo’s Cathedral, and the medieval guild houses along the Korenlei and Graslei.

You’ll get to see some of your favorite sights again, this time during the day as well. As well as some new bridges along the way, such as the St. Michael’s Bridge and the Sint-Jorisbrug Bridge.

Other sights you’ll have the pleasure of gazing upon as you float to the sound of lapping water are The Portus Ganda Marina and The Saint-Anneke Chapel (a small chapel located on a quiet island in the middle of the Leie River). This is a unique way to explore some of the best places to visit in Ghent.

The day is still young and there is much to see and experience. After that relaxing boat ride, let’s hit the streets again and explore the Patershol Neighborhood. Patershol is known for its narrow cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and picturesque squares.

This neighborhood is a cross between the South of France and Edinburgh, combining a mixture of nature and contrasting architecture in the most innovative and beautiful way.

Patershol dates back to the Middle Ages and was once home to many of the city’s artisans and craftsmen. Today, the neighborhood has retained much of its historic character and is particularly famous for offering some of Ghent’s best restaurants located within the neighborhood.

Whilst you’re in Patershol, check out  the House of Alijn, a museum dedicated to the everyday life and culture of the people of Ghent.

As well as Vrijdagmarkt, (which hosts a lively market every Friday), and the Graffitistraatje (street art). Ghent has this wonderful way of reminding you of what you’ve seen so far in little unique bites around every corner.

Finally, to end off your final few hours in Ghent, the last thing to do is visit Ghent’s most popular landmark. It’s been a wild ride, but we’ve made it back into the heart of Ghent to observe a beautiful bell tower from which the city beats. 

The tower was built in the 17th century and serves as the backdrop for many of Ghent’s cultural events and festivals, including the famous Ghent Festival, while putting Ghent’s panoramic cityscape on full display.

The 54 bells at the Belfry of Ghent go off several times a day, starting from 9:00 am in the morning until 10:00 pm at night. What a way to end off a perfect two days on a journey from traditionalism to modernity in Ghent.

Best Places to Stay in Ghent, Belgium

For the luxurious traveler who isn’t a fan of hostels and “roughing it”, your sophisticated palette will feel quite at home at The Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Reylof , which draws on Ghent’s traditional architecture and style.

For a more modern, all-inclusive stay, you’ll want to check out the stylish Marriot Ghent Hotel which focuses on providing an internationally ergonomical stay.

Finally, if you’d prefer a unique stay that cannot be experienced elsewhere, you’ll want to stay at The Ghent River Hotel which is located in a former cotton mill on the banks of the Leie River. 

When to Visit Ghent ?

If you’re a lover of winter wonderlands, then Ghent during Christmas time will exceed all of your expectations. December to February is a great time to visit if you enjoy the festive atmosphere of Christmas markets and holiday lights.

For the summer lovers, you’ll want to visit Ghent during June through to August when the weather is mild and many festivals and outdoor events take place. 

How Many Days in Ghent?

Everyone has their personal preference but this Ghent itinerary will have you seeing the best of a cool Belgian city in only two days in Ghent. Prepare yourself for a cultural whirlwind!

You’ve seen so many European wonders, all within 48 hours in Ghent. What an absolute globetrotter!

If you’re looking for a unique destination that ticks off whimsical wonders, historical battles, satisfies your inner goth and surprises you with its take on medieval modernity, all delivered with suave, then Ghent, Belgium is your go-to.

Recommended tours in Ghent

• Historical Walking Tour: Legends of Gent
• Ghent Bike Tour Off-the-beaten-track
• Evening Tour of the Dark Side of Gent
• Guided Boat Trip in Ghent
• Ghent Small-Group Chocolate Tour with Local Guide
• Ghent Beer Guided Walking Tour
• Walking food tour: Introduction to Ghent through food

If you’d like to save it for later, please save it to Pinterest.

Sam, a seasoned traveler across four continents and 49 countries, is a leading authority in travel planning. Her website, Travelling King, offers tailored itineraries and expert guides for seamless trips. Sam's expertise in luxury travel, fast travel, and destination guides keeps her at the forefront of the travel community.

View all posts

Similar Posts

The Best Day Trips from Brussels

Brussels used to be the residence of kings as well as an epicentre of arts, crafts and international trade….

1 Day Itinerary for Antwerp

While it is true that Antwerp is one of Belgium’s buzzy and bustling cities that is packed with so…

48 hours in Antwerp – A 2 day Itinerary

If you are looking for a city that is off the beaten path, Antwerp is a must-see destination. This…

Where To Stay in Antwerp [Best Places to Stay for 2024]

Antwerp is a goodie bag of cultures and surprises. Situated in the north of Belgium’s Flemish region on the…

Where to Stay in Leuven [Best Places to Stay for 2024]

Leuven is just 25 kilometers from Brussels, but offers travelers a different experience than the Belgium capital city. Leuven…

Ultimate Guide on Things to do in Brussels

Brussels is the capital of Belgium, and one of three main regions in the country. It is home to…

• The Top Bars In Ghent...

An Insider's Guide to the Best Bars in Ghent

Ghent may be modest in size compared to its big sisters, Brussels and Antwerp, but the nightlife scene here is second to none. Culture Trip’s pick of the best bars takes you from an iconic bruin café (traditional “brown” pub) and a Dutch gin dive to sizzling jazz enclaves and on-trend apero spots.

Given its large student population, Ghent has a reputation for its youthful, rambunctious nightlife scene. Clubs are particularly concentrated on Overpoort Street, a bar-strewn strip dedicated to all manner of student shindigs. But beyond the bustle of these student joints, the city also caters to other revellers, with a full spectrum of drinking spots on offer. “Ghent always has been a bit more left-field and stubborn than other Belgian cities,” says Jules Gahide, owner of Ghent’s Amigo venue. “A lot of different influences and mixtures of people create a pleasant and laid-back vibe.” Ghent-based writer Chanun Poomsawai has picked the best bars for a night out in Ghent.

1. ’t Dreupelkot

Bar, Pub Grub, Belgian

2. Hotsy Totsy

Bar, Belgian

3. De Walrus

Pub, Vegetarian

Bar, Mexican, Middle Eastern

Opened in 2018 near the shopping complex Dok Noord, Amigo is the latest project by the same dream team behind the sorely missed venues Kerk, Nest and Bar Wilson. The venue describes itself as a spot for “amigos, bar, coffee, disco and everything in between,” and that’s exactly what you’re getting across its two floors, which are decked out in warm, earthy tones. Here, hungry crowds convene on the ground floor for Mexican and Middle Eastern-inspired dishes and creative cocktails, while rug-cutters rendezvous in the basement for weekly parties showcasing emerging DJs.

5. Jigger's

Bar, Belgian, Pub Grub

6. Le Bal Infernal

Bar, Cafe, Belgian

7. The Cobbler

Bar, Cocktail Bar, Belgian

Housed in Ghent’s former post office building in the heart of Korenmarkt, Zannier Hotels 1898 The Post enjoys a gorgeous setting overlooking the picturesque Graslei framed by the city’s Gothic skyline . And even if you’re staying elsewhere, you can still take advantage of the location from its bar, The Cobbler. Mind you, the bar is an attraction in itself, flaunting dapper decor complete with the building’s original wooden floor, fireplace and stylish sofa. As for the drinks, craft cocktails are where it’s at, so make sure to sample their signature creations, such as Dirty Secrets, which combines Szechuan pepper and aged soy sauce to spectacular effect. A selection of bar nibbles, while on the smaller side, showcases top-shelf Ghent specialties including Het Hinkelpel cheeses and Tierenteyn mustard.

8. De Dulle Griet

Bar, Pub, Beer

Opened in 2018, André has its attention fixed on the magical “apero time”, or after-work drinks, satisfying Ghent’s unfading aperobar (aperitif bar) craze. Inside, owners Ann Clopterop and Andreas Dhont bring a slice of tropical jungle to their cosy bar, highlighting the fusion between urbanity and wilderness through plants, forest-green tiles and wooden furniture. Kick off the evening with a shot of limoncello and, if you’re feeling peckish, a side of croquettes (both made in house). And like most spots along the Oudburg strip, the bar also comes with a lovely view of the Leie River – granted that you’re quick enough to grab a seat by the window.

10. Charlatan

This article is an updated version of a story originally created by Nana Van De Poel .

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

Restaurants

The best restaurants in ghent, belgium.

Food & Drink

The best breakfast and brunch spots in ghent.

Places to Stay

The best hotels to book in ghent, belgium, for every traveller.

The Best Boutique Hotels in Ghent, Belgium

Culture trip spring sale, save up to $1,100 on our unique small-group trips limited spots..

• Post ID: 1480114
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload