ghent belgium travel guide

National Geographic content straight to your inbox—sign up for our popular newsletters here

A guide to Ghent, Belgium's rebellious, unsung city

Youthful and rebellious, Ghent is stepping out of Bruges’s shadow as a Belgian canal-side classic

A view of Ghent's three towers of the Belfry, St Nicholas' Church and St Bavo's Cathedral from St Michael's Bridge.

In the 16th century, Ghent lost it all on the wrong bet. Built around rivers and canals, it was Europe’s second-largest urban centre, falling just behind Paris. When Holy Roman Emperor Charles V, who ruled over Belgium, raised taxes to fund military action abroad, the city refused to pay out. They’d already given a fair share, locals argued, and surely Charles, who had been born in Ghent, wouldn’t turn on his home. In response, he marched into the city with his army, stripping it of its finery and parading its leaders in their undershirts, nooses around their necks.

Today, you can find evidence of the city’s illustrious past in its historical centre, home to a UNESCO-listed belfry and the Gravensteen, a stone fortress said to have been inspired by Crusader castles. And while its heyday is now behind it, Ghentians proudly tell the story of their fall from grace as proof of their rebellious streak.

This spirit survived, the sign of a place that’s at ease with its identity: socially conscious and full of fresh ideas. Initiatives like Nucleo are repurposing empty spaces into artists’ studios, and inviting the public to peer in once a year — in 2024, the open day is on 5 May. Meanwhile, chefs are experimenting with the earth’s pantry, casting Ghent as a European vegetarian capital. This energy is partly due to it being Flanders’ biggest university city: out of some 267,000 residents, over a quarter are students. This ensures a near endless supply of speciality-roast coffee in the Overpoort student district, and nightlife ranging from candle-lit wine bars to sweaty warehouses, reverberating with the kind of techno more often associated with Berlin.

The city was named 2024 European Youth Capital by the European Youth Forum — and it’s no surprise. In April, it will celebrate the accolade as part of the biennial Ghent International Festival, which will feature opera as well as dancers on roller-skates. Events will continue throughout the year, with locals as young as 15 invited to contribute ideas. As for what they’ll come up with, all bets are off.

Street sculpture by Belgian artist Michaël Borreman, who lives and works in Ghent. It shows four faceless people huddled together, their heads touching, in the middle of a street.

What to see and do

1. Historic quays If you’ve seen photos of Ghent before, chances are they’re of the Graslei and Korenlei. Once the city’s centre of trade, these quays remain a hub of activity, lined with cafe terraces and moorings for boat tours. They’re the gateway to the historical centre, as well as the neighbourhoods of Patershol, a former working-class district turned culinary hotspot, and Prinsenhof, a residential area that was once home to royalty.

2. The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb This altarpiece by the Van Eyck brothers is the most stolen artwork of all time — it was even robbed by Napoleon, and over the years, it’s been forged and almost destroyed. It marked the transition from Middle Ages to Renaissance in Flemish art: admire its genre-defining details at St Bavo’s Cathedral , where a VR tour leads visitors through its history.

3. Street art Ever since a historical centre passageway — now known as Graffiti Alley — was given over to street artists in the 1990s, murals have claimed Ghent like vines. Free to download, the ‘Sorry, Not Sorry’ map pinpoints some of the most famous. Pieces from homegrown talent include the rabbits by big-name ROA on Tempelhof and the foxes on Napoleon Destanbergstraat, which helped artist Kitsune make a name for herself.

4. Dok Noord In the city’s northern reaches, an old factory complex has been turned into Dok Noord, one of Ghent’s newest leisure and office developments. Its main draw is Hal 16, a food hall in a former brick warehouse. Try barbecued dishes or Italian specialities including mafaldine pasta with octopus ragu, then quench your thirst at Dok Brewing Company. There are 30 beers on tap, but Waar is Loca, a pale ale brewed on site, is a crowd favourite.

5. Museum of Industry Belgium was the first country in mainland Europe where the Industrial Revolution took hold. Housed inside a former cotton mill, this museum traces Ghent’s rise to textile powerhouse. The star of the collection is Belgium’s first spinning mule, a machine created to speed up yarn production: local Lieven Bauwens smuggled its components out of the UK, as export of such machinery had been banned.

6. Bike Ghent Cristophe De Smet takes you beyond the city’s historical centre on two-wheeled tours of his hometown. Book a private ride to tailor the itinerary to your interests, whether you want to learn about beguinages (former religious communities for women) or Belgium’s first worker housing complex, named Zebra Street, which is now a venue for contemporary installations and even a pop-up swimming pool in the summer.

Visitors admire The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb altarpiece inside St Bavo's Cathedral.

Where to eat in Ghent

1. Knol & Kool The choice at this vegan cafe, a few steps from the belfry, ranges from vegetable lasagne with rocket pesto and almond parmesan to bánh mì overstuffed with tofu, pickled carrot and red cabbage. Check out the on-site vegan minimarket for hibiscus-flavoured beer, green leek miso paste and nut cheese made locally.

2. Lepelblad This modern restaurant in tranquil Onderbergen, near the historical centre, works with local farmers and small producers to celebrate the season’s bounty. The menu might change depending on the day’s supply, but expect dishes like chicory tarte tatin with onion cream and mustard salad or marinated beef with salsify, soy and herbs. Each comes with a recommended wine and beer pairing.

3. Oak This one-Michelin-starred restaurant is celebrating its 10th anniversary with a refurbished look but has retained the minimalist, dark-toned decor that lets its menu shine. Brazilian chef Marcelo Ballardin’s multi-course menus lean into his international background with creations such as mackerel with Philippine calamansi lime or sea bass with tucupi sauce, extracted from wild manioc root in the Amazon rainforest.

Where to go shopping

1. Home Linen This boutique on the Korenlei has been crafting its own designs since the 19th century. A lavender scent permeates the space, which sells lace tablecloths decorated with red lobsters, retro night gowns and children’s dresses embroidered with rosebuds. It’s all reasonably priced, despite Belgian linen being renowned for its softness.

2. Antiques Ghent has a seemingly endless assortment of vintage shops. Located opposite each other on central Baudelostraat, Antiek-Depot has overflowing shelves of curios, while Moca has ceilings hung with chairs and tambourines. For more precise perusing, Galerie St-John has a pedigree selection of cutlery, porcelains and Belgian paintings, all housed in a former baroque church.

3. Sweets & condiments While Belgium is known for waffles and chocolate, Ghentians will recommend different specialities. Cuberdons are nose-shaped hard candies filled with fruit syrup; get a packet at Patershol’s Confiserie Temmerman , which dates to 1904. Even older is Tierenteyn-Verlent in the historical centre, selling a locally famous mustard made using a secret recipe.

After hours

1. ‘t Dreupelkot It’s been over four decades since Paul Rysenaer opened this pint-sized pub a few steps from the Graslei, where barrels serve as high tables and wood cabinets display shot glasses. Head here to try jenever, a juniper-flavoured Belgian and Dutch spirit: there are some 200 varieties on the shelves, some distilled by Paul himself.

2. The Cobbler Walk up a spiral staircase and into this low-lit cocktail bar within 1898 The Post hotel , one of the city’s trendiest addresses. It’s hard to say what’s better: the location on the Graslei, overlooking gothic St Nicholas’ Church, or its signature concoctions. Try the fruity pear sonata with vodka, Cointreau, cassis and pear, or the herbal downstairs harry, a mix of rum, cognac, vermouth, Chartreuse, maple syrup and sage.

3. Jazz clubs A UNESCO Creative City of Music, Ghent has a special affinity with jazz. Every July, Gent Jazz takes over a former 13th-century hospital with performances by the likes of Gregory Porter and Norah Jones, but you’ll find sessions to jam out to all year. Hot Club Gent , an intimate bar, and Missy Sippy , a self-styled ‘modern juke joint’, are good places to start in the historical centre.

A barman at The Cobbler, the cocktail bar of 1898 The Post hotel.

Like a local

1. Portus Ganda Ghent’s name comes from ganda, Celtic for ‘confluence’. The city was founded where the rivers Lys and Scheldt meet; when the Graslei and Koreneli get too busy, follow the canals to this very spot, now a tranquil marina. If visiting in warm months, detour to St Bavo’s Abbey, where hornbeam bushes mark the outline of a long-lost church.

2. The Bakery When pastry chef Joost Arijs set up a chocolate shop in SoGo — Ghent’s shopping district — in 2011, it was quickly named Belgium’s best by restaurant guide Gault & Millau. Opened down the road in 2023, his follow-up bakery was always going to draw in curious locals but, a year on, the morning queues show no sign of subsiding. Come early to have your pick of the crispiest croissants.

3. Veggie Thursdays In 2009, Ghent was the first city in the world to introduce a weekly meat-free day — an initiative that’s since been replicated from Taipei to Los Angeles. Take part yourself at Boon , an airy, Scandi-chic vegetarian lunch bar opposite the Gravensteen. The seasonal soups, salads and slices of quiche will have you coming back for more no matter what day of the week it is.

Where to stay in Ghent

1. Ganda Rooms and Suites You’ll be hard-pressed to find better value for money than this B & B, set in an 18th-century townhouse in the historical centre. The eight rooms retain original mantelpieces and wooden beams, and the owners worked with artisans to furnish them with bespoke beds and Belgian art.

2. Pillows Grand Hotel Reylof True to its former life as a baronial residence, this four-star hotel dazzles at first sight with a sweeping staircase in its marbled, neoclassical lobby. Set in a separate building, the 157 rooms are a more pared-back affair, but with common areas including a library and a bijou spa in what was a carriage house — plus the Graslei a stone’s throw away — there’s more than enough to keep you busy.

3. Hotel Verhaegen Frescoes, a landscaped garden, a bath house with vaulted ceilings: there’s nothing subtle about this city palace, a short walk from the historical centre. It was reimagined as a four-room guesthouse by a pair of interior designers, who combined hand-picked antiques with 21st-century touches. Splurge on the Suite des Annees ’40 — though at some 750sq ft, the term ‘suite’ hardly does it justice.

Inside Ganda Rooms and Suites, a B&B set in an 18th-century townhouse.

The essential guide to visiting San Diego

A guide to Gdansk, Poland's regenerated maritime city

Free bonus issue.

A guide to plant-based dining in Birmingham

A city guide to Bergamo, Italy

A guide to Antwerp, Belgium's striking second city

A family city guide to London

A guide to Aberdeen, Scotland's surprising 'Granite City' by the sea

Environment
Perpetual Planet
History & Culture

History & Culture

History Magazine
Mind, Body, Wonder
Paid Content
Terms of Use
Privacy Policy
Your US State Privacy Rights
Children's Online Privacy Policy
Interest-Based Ads
About Nielsen Measurement
Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
Nat Geo Home
Attend a Live Event
Book a Trip
Inspire Your Kids
Shop Nat Geo
Visit the D.C. Museum
Learn About Our Impact
Support Our Mission
Advertise With Us
Customer Service
Renew Subscription
Manage Your Subscription
Work at Nat Geo
Sign Up for Our Newsletters
Contribute to Protect the Planet

Evening in the lively city of Ghent, Belgium

Despite being one of Belgium's oldest cities, Ghent remains small enough to feel cosy but big enough to be a vibrant, relevant centre for trade and culture. There's a wealth of medieval and classical architecture here, contrasted by large post-industrial areas undergoing urban renewal that give Ghent a gritty-but-good industrial feel.

Your next trip starts here

Go from dreaming to planning with trip planning options made to help you craft your ideal itinerary.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb

Art enthusiasts swarm the Sint-Baafskathedraal to glimpse The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb (De Aanbidding van het Lams God), a lavish representation of…

Gravensteen

Flanders’ quintessential 12th-century stone castle comes complete with moat, turrets and arrow slits. It’s all the more remarkable considering that during…

Ghent’s Unesco-listed 14th-century belfry (91m) is topped by a large dragon weathervane: he's become something of a city mascot. You’ll meet two previous…

Styled like a Greek temple, this superb 1903 fine-art gallery introduces a veritable A–Z of great Belgian and other Low Countries' painters from the 14th…

St-Pietersabdij

Once the country’s biggest abbey, St-Pieters was the original centre around which Ghent grew. Its fabulous wealth evaporated after French revolutionary…

Kasteel Ooidonk

Thought to have been originally constructed around the 13th and 14th centuries, and reconstructed in 1595 after much savagery and repeated pillaging,…

Ghent’s magnificent and flamboyant city hall was started in 1519 but not finished until 1600, by which time it had transformed into a Renaissance-style…

Ghent's best-loved waterfront square, the 'Wheat Market' is where you'll find some of the city's best architecture, including the former post office (now…

Latest stories from Ghent

Mar 3, 2020 • 5 min read

Discover key locations in the history of the Ghent Altarpiece, one of the world's most important artworks and the most frequently stolen in history.

Jan 24, 2020 • 2 min read

Oct 25, 2019 • 1 min read

Aug 15, 2019 • 6 min read

Apr 1, 2011 • 1 min read

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Ghent

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks.

Get to the heart of Ghent with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

All fields are mandatory, unless indicated otherwise.

Ghent, more than a one night stay

Two couples walk down a street with flowering Japanese cherry trees

What can you currently do in Ghent?

Cycling family under the spring sun on the Kouter

Why choose Ghent for a weekend trip?

Vibrant Ghent is well worth a weekend trip. It’s ideal for a last-minute city trip as well. Quirky Ghent offers a fascinating cultural cocktail brimming with trendy, modern urban life. Ghent is a city where people enjoy life: a chilled-out place where anything goes and a city that feels human. Its friendly, welcoming people love the good life. Don’t miss the chance to admire the world-famous masterpiece—the Mystic Lamb by the Van Eyck brothers—during your weekend trip.

Mystic Lamb, lights and delicacies!

The people of Ghent, a breed apart

Man drinks beer during football match in the Ghelamco Arena

CityCard: experience Ghent to the full!

So much ghent: discover it yourself, see & do.

Ghent, a cultural cocktail on a human scale

Eat & Drink

Eat out in gourmet Ghent

Overnight stay

Sleep in vibrant Ghent

Ghent: budget-friendly

Looking for accommodation without breaking the bank? Ghent offers many affordable hotels and hostels, a campsite and a youth hostel.

Sustainable tourism: pure Ghent

In Ghent, sustainability isn’t just a fashion: it’s a way of life. Ghent is committed to the environment.

Ghent, great fun for little dragons

Child-friendly Ghent: have fun on your weekend trip with the whole family!

Not-to-be-missed in Ghent

The castle of the counts.

Shopping in Ghent, so much fun

Ghent museums

Cyclists and walkers in front of the Museum of Fine Arts

Ghent, city of beer

Skip to primary navigation
Skip to main content
Skip to primary sidebar

Your perfect Ghent itinerary for Belgium’s most underrated city

October 28, 2019 by Karen Turner 1 Comment

Despite coming to Belgium so many times, I’ve definitely fallen in love with Ghent. This charming Belgian city has so much to do and after some day trips and finally a long weekend in Ghent, I’ve created an itinerary for visiting Ghent for first-timers highlighting the best things to do in Ghent. Needless to say, I’ll be back soon and I’m disappointed for not discovering Ghent sooner!

Ghent has a fairly compact city center, so if you find reasonable accommodations in the city center, you’ll be able to walk almost everywhere that you need to go! I strongly recommend staying overnight as otherwise, you won’t be able to stay out late to experience Ghent’s nightlife with a side of Flemish fries. It’s worth the overnight stay, trust me!

On my recent trip with friends, we stayed at the recently renovated Huize Maeterlinck right near Graffitistraat. It was clean, convenient, and basic. You can also find less expensive options, including a hostel ( Hostel Uppelink ) that sits in one of the most beautiful buildings in Ghent with a view that many would kill for! On the other end, if you’re looking for something more luxurious, consider splurging on 1898 The Post for the five-star experience.

Getting to Ghent is easy from many places in Belgium and the Netherlands. Gent-Sint-Pieters is the main train station linking Ghent to Brussels , Antwerpen , and also Amsterdam . If you’re on a budget, you can take Flixbus to Ghent from the Netherlands (Amsterdam) for less than lunch each way! (I paid 9 euros on this trip!) It’s a short tram or taxi ride to the center or about a 30-minute walk.

1.1 “Lunch” and a waffle
1.2 Step into Groot Vleeshuis
1.3 Gravensteen
1.4 Watch the sunset along the river
1.5 Dinner in Patershol
1.6 Beers (or music!)
1.7 Frites after dark at Ghent’s best frites bar*
2.1 Breakfast
2.2 Enjoy the Ghent altarpiece without the crowds
2.3 Climb the Belfry of Ghent
2.4 Sample Gent’s world-famous noses, mustard, and artisanal chocolate
2.5 Enjoy Graffiti Street
2.6 Browse for books and fun souvenirs
2.7 Borrelen
3 Have you been to Ghent? Let me know your favorite things to do in Ghent!

One day in Ghent: Classic Ghent

“lunch” and a waffle.

Belgian Luikse waffle in Ghent, Belgium with background of historic city center of Gent

Ghent is constantly changing and every trip has included stopping off at the various pop-up restaurants along Hoogpoort . This trendy street is full of many international and Belgian influenced food. We ended up stopping off at a Mexican pop-up, which did not disappoint. Mosquito Coast is a favorite among locals with its fun travel-inspired decorations and international menu.

You’ll want to save room for a Belgian waffle. Personally, I prefer the Liege-style waffle over the Brussels-style one. You have plenty of choice for waffles, but a good waffle place will be making them fresh for you. I ended up picking one up from Bakery Himschoot , one of the oldest bakeries in Gent. Next to Bakery Himschoot, you’ll find a stand selling Gentse Neuzen (Gent Noses). These sweet candies are soft with a jelly-like interior and fruit flavors. It’s five euros for a bag and they won’t last long…

Step into Groot Vleeshuis

Interior of the Groot Vleeshuis, a food market in Gent Belgium

Foodies should definitely step into the Great Butcher’s Hall ( Groot Vleeshuis ). (Vegetarians, don’t be too afraid!) This beautiful 15th-century former guild house and covered market is a delight to browse. If you’re looking for a snack or a local meal that you can’t find anywhere else, you can sample more than 175 regional products from Flanders here. Entry is free if you want to peek inside (and if you’re full!), however, you can pay for any of the food with a credit/debit card within the restaurant.

Gravensteen

This was my second time at Gravensteen. This epic medieval castle is one of my favorite castle museums in Europe and when my friends visited, I knew that they had to experience this attraction in Ghent. As you go through the castle, you get a good glimpse into the brutality of medieval life in this part of the world.

Recently, they’ve renovated the audio tour to be led by a local Gent comedian. The result is a silly tour through the castle that will make you giggle a lot. The audio tour is worth doing although it’s sometimes a bit at odds with the dark history within the castle. It’s easy to spend at least 2-3 hours within the castle and its grounds. Be sure to enjoy the stunning view of Ghent from the rooftop.

Leie River in Gent with canal cruise seen from Gravensteen castle, one of the best things to do in Ghent.

You need to be able to walk well as it’s a lot of stairs as you walk through the main route. If you’re claustrophobic, some parts of the castle will be a bit difficult as the stairways can be very narrow. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as the cobblestones can be slippery at times… Tickets with an audio guide cost 10 euros for adults. You can buy them in advance for specific time slots, which is best during weekends.

Watch the sunset along the river

Beautiful former guild houses in Ghent, Belgium along the Leie River after sunset with reflection.

Ghent is so beautiful at night. We stayed two nights in Ghent and each night, we ended up wandering down to the Leie to admire the stunning former guild houses along the riverside. Ghent was a major player in the textile trade, which brought much wealth within the medieval period. Many of these guild houses are cafes, restaurants, and hotels today. The best views are from Kraanlei . In the summer, you’ll want to grab a snack and a drink to enjoy at a picturesque spot along the river.

Dinner in Patershol

You’ll have plenty of great options for dinner in the Patershol neighborhood, which is the upcoming neighborhood of Ghent. Whether you’re craving traditional Belgian food at ‘t Klokhuys or sushi, there’s something for everyone.

Beers (or music!)

Gentse Tripel beer enjoyed within a Gent craft beer bar

The beauty of Ghent’s nightlife scene is that there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of slightly divey neighborhood bars ( De Croone ), drinking giant beers shamelessly as a tourist ( Dulle Griet ), old-school Flemish bars filled with wood ( Trollekelder ) , a quiet night discussing books over wine ( Le Bal ), or just want to dance the night away ( Charlatan ), Ghent has something for everyone. Just be prepared that many bars are cash only . The local craft beer is Gruut, which can be found at most bars. I also am a fan of the Gentse Tripel!

As veteran beer lovers, we loved the rule of taking one shoe off to order the giant beers at Dulle Griet although you can certainly find slightly better prices at other establishments such as the Trollekelder if you’re a serious drinker. (Still, the beer selection was sublime at both!) Our favorite experience as a group was at one of the beautiful neighborhood bars that we stepped into–and didn’t leave until closing.

Frites after dark at Ghent’s best frites bar*

Belgian frites in Gent, Belgium. Trying the local food is a must-do!

At the recommendation of our host, we ended up going to Frituur Sint-Jacobs for the best fries in Ghent, if not Belgium. We had fries a few other times and I was a fan of them. (Disclosure: We already had a few beers before coming here.) I liked the fries with samurai sauce, which was definitely a generous portion. They do not accept credit cards, so bring cash with you.

Second day in Ghent

Wake up early (or late) for a lazy breakfast at one of the more interesting brunch restaurants that we went to in Ghent, WASBAR . This combination of a laundromat with a brunch restaurant is a bit bizarre, but it works. The food is good and they accept credit cards.

Enjoy the Ghent altarpiece without the crowds

The Ghent Altarpiece is housed within the Saint Bavo Cathedral , a bit outside of the city center. It’s a short walk from the city center. Although the church itself is free to visit, you need to pay 4 euros in order to see the altarpiece itself. Check the hours carefully as you cannot visit while Sunday services are occurring. Photos aren’t allowed within the church (not my photo above!), however, be sure to climb the tower for beautiful views over Ghent!

The Ghent Altarpiece showcases the story of the Mystic Lamb of the Resurrection on an altarpiece. The real story of this piece of art, which is one of the most stolen art pieces in art history, is a must-read online beforehand. While you’re within the cathedral, be sure to explore this beautiful Gothic church with a Romanesque crypt.

Climb the Belfry of Ghent

Beautiful Belfry of Ghent in Gent, Belgium. This UNESCO recognized attraction in Belgium is set against a blue sky!

Belgium’s many belfries are included within UNESCO’s World Heritage List for their important role in preserving architecture in the Roman, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. These towers are a testament to the history and pride of each city that they’re in within Belgium, including Ghent. In Ghent, the Belfry sits in the middle of the city allowing for stunning views of the historic city center. Within this 91-meter tower, you can see Ghent’s original city mascot, the dragon, displayed.

View of Ghent, Belgium from the Belfry of Ghent, one of the best attractions to visit in Gent

We were not lucky enough to hear one of the carillon concerts (check the schedule, but Sunday mornings are a sure bet!), however, we were still able to enjoy the inner workings of the carillon. Entry costs 8 euros for adults (2019/2020) and the site is mostly accessible to those with handicaps. Otherwise, you’ll need to climb all 350 stairs. It’s steep, but worth the trek. We spent about an hour inside of the belfry and learned quite a bit about the history of the city.

Sample Gent’s world-famous noses, mustard, and artisanal chocolate

Belgian chocolate at a chocolatier in Ghent, Belgium. You cannot miss trying the local chocolate when visiting Ghent!

Although people automatically associate Brussels with chocolate , Ghent has much to offer. After all, you are in Belgium. Ghent has a number of artisanal chocolate shops producing high-quality chocolate in-house. My favorites were Chocolaterie Cédric Van Hoorebeke (pictured above), Chocolaterie Luc Van Hoorebeke , and Van Hecke F Chocolatiere . You don’t need a chocolate tour to experience these. Simply, drop by and pick out a few chocolates that look good. (The staff speaks good English if you’re unsure what to pick.) This was easily my favorite activity in Ghent!

Enjoy Graffiti Street

Man painting graffiti on Graffiti Street in Ghent, Belgium!

On Werregarenstraat, you’ll find tons of the latest graffiti from local artists and more famous artists such as Roa (also seen in Doel ). It’s worth a stroll if you love street art and perfectly embodies the creative spirit of Ghent!

Browse for books and fun souvenirs

Books and bottles of liquor at a unique shop in Ghent, Belgium

Ghent is full of cool shops and it’s clear that this Belgian city is at the forefront of design. Be sure to browse some of the cool shops around for interesting souvenirs. I especially loved the Books & Booze bookstore and liquor store. For vintage-inspired fashions with a modern take, head to SeventyOne Ghent. You’ll also find many independent bookstores with a decent selection in Dutch and English.

In this part of Belgium and also in the Netherlands, there’s a separate meal-time for drinks and snacks in the late afternoon/early evening. Stop off at a cozy bar for a cozy drink possibly accompanied by some bar snacks (such as bitterballen). We stopped off at one of the oldest bars in Ghent, Café Den Turk for a beer. The bar itself has seen so much history in Ghent and it’s incredible that you can still just drop in for a beer. It’s cash-only.

Have you been to Ghent? Let me know your favorite things to do in Ghent!

More places not to miss in Belgium!
Your perfect Belgian itinerary
One day in Antwerp itinerary
A weekend in Brussels
Chocolate in Brussels
Doel: Flander’s almost abandoned city

Your perfect itinerary for Ghent, Belgium's most underrated city. This guide to Ghent includes what to do in Ghent over a weekend in Gent and the best things to do in Ghent that you can't miss!

About Karen Turner

New Yorker–born and raised. Currently living in the Hague, the Netherlands after stints in Paris and Amsterdam. Lover of travel, adventure, nature, city, dresses, and cats.

Reader Interactions

[…] this time capsule into the past surrounded by tram lines and a modern city. Even if you have just one day in Ghent, don’t miss Gravensteen! During Christmas, the castle often hosts a Christmas market and […]

Ultimate Travel Guide to Ghent

Ghent, Belgium is a port city in the East Flanders region. It’s one of the top Belgian university towns, which means you’ll find a creative, young crowd here amongst all of the looming medieval towers.

During the Middle Ages, Ghent was one of the largest and wealthiest cities in Europe. While it’s a little more lowkey these days, it remains a fascinating and evolving place with a lot of history and architecture to appreciate.

Panoramic view of the historic city center of Ghent with Leie river illuminated in beautiful twilight, Ghent, East Flanders, Belgium

Read through this travel guide to find out what to do in Ghent, as well as what to eat, where to stay, and how to make your way around the city. You may even learn a few useful travel tips!

This ultimate travel guide to Ghent will show you all the most beautiful places in Ghent, what to expect when visiting, where to stay in Ghent and things to do in Ghent which will help you in planning a trip to Ghent.

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

How to get to Ghent

The closest airport to Ghent is Brussels Airport in Zaventem. From the airport, you can take a train straight to Ghent.

Ghent has six railway stations, though Ghent Sint-Pieters is where you’ll arrive if you’re coming from Brussels. Depending on the time of day, the trip can take 55 minutes to an hour and a half.

If you’re already within the city of Brussels , you can depart from Brussels Central Station. Arriving from a different Belgian city? The train from Bruges takes about 25 minutes, while a trip from Antwerp is just under an hour.

Sunrise over passenger airliners parked at Brussels Zaventem International Airport in Brussels, Belgium.

What to expect in Ghent

There are many official languages in Belgium, including French, Dutch and German. Since Ghent is located in the province of Flanders, residents speak Flemish Dutch.

As a tourist, you’ll be able to get along fine only speaking English, as most locals are fluent in English as well.

Belgium is a member of the European Union and uses the euro as its currency . A 10 to 15 per cent service charge is usually added to the bill at restaurants, so it’s not necessary to leave an extra tip.

How to get around Ghent

You’ll be amazed at how well organised the public transport system in Ghent is. The network of buses and trams throughout the city are reliable and extensive.

If you purchase a Ghent CityCard , you can catch any tram and bus for free. To look up route maps in advance and plan your journey, head to the De Lijn website, which luckily has an English version.

With the CityCard, you can also rent a bicycle for free for an entire day. All you have to pay is a €40 deposit, which will be refunded once you safely return your bike to the hire point.

Biking is a fun way to explore the winding streets of Ghent, particularly when you don’t have a destination in mind.

Walk as much as you can around the old town so that you can soak up the laid-back atmosphere and appreciate every bit of architecture.

Ghent, Belgium- View of a tram passing on railways in old part of the city Ghent. Spring morning view

The best time to visit Ghent

Tourism is at its busiest around mid-summer to early autumn, so there will be bigger crowds and increased prices during this time. June is an ideal time to visit Ghent if you want warm weather without the hordes of people.

Mid to late December is also a busy time of year but can be a wonderful experience nonetheless. If you’re hoping to spend Christmas or New Year’s Eve in Ghent, you’ll be delighted at the abundance of festive activities and the winter wonderland vibes.

Of course, you should book in advance to avoid missing out on the best hotels or tours.

Spring is an affordable and lively time of year in Ghent too. Getting out and exploring a new city while the flowers are in bloom and the weather is beginning to warm up is always enjoyable.

Ghent, Belgium - Gent city winter festival in Flanders. Christmas fair with Xmas tree and festive decorations surrounded by historical buildings on the Ghent Old town square.

Things to do in Ghent

The first thing you should do in Ghent is pick up a Ghent CityCard . As you already know, the card includes free public transport, but what else does it offer? Pay a small upfront price to get into all of the top attractions and skip the long lines.

A card valid for 48 hours costs €30, or for €5 extra you can buy the 72-hour card. It’s easy to pick one up, as they are sold at the Ghent Tourist Office, most museums, participating hotels, and all public transport sales points.

You’ll also receive a handy attractions map, which will become one of your essential travel resources on the go.

Once you’ve purchased your CityCard, what are the best things to do in Ghent ? Here are some of the top suggestions for sights to see and fun Ghent activities:

Admire Saint Bavo’s Cathedral

Saint Bavo’s Cathedral is a magnificent Gothic architectural gem in the old town. Constructed in the late 13th-century, it is the oldest parish church in Ghent and is easily identified by its 89-metre-tall tower. It is also home to an 18th-century 6,000-pipe organ, which is the largest in the Benelux.

While the exteriors are stunning, the cathedral is even more impressive inside. You’ll find yourself marvelling at the black and red flamed marble naves and the star-shaped rib-vaulted ceiling.

The Saint Bavo Cathedral (Sint-Baafs Cathedral) in Ghent, historical city of Belgium, on a sunny day

Visit the Mystic Lamb

The Ghent Altarpiece, commonly referred to as the Mystic Lamb, is the most stolen artwork of all time. It’s fascinating to learn about the history of this beloved piece, which was once taken by Napoleon and sought after by the Nazis.

This giant polyptych from the 15th century is made up of 12 panels, each depicting a different Catholic figure or scene.

Brothers Hubrecht and Jan van Eyck spent almost a decade completing these panels, which include Adam and Eve, the Virgin Mary, and St John the Evangelist. The panel of the Just Judges has been missing since 1934.

The Mystic Lamb is currently on display at Saint Bavo’s Cathedral and is without a doubt one of the top things to see in Ghent.

GHENT, BELGIUM-Interiors, paintings and details of Saint Bavon cathedral in Ghent, Belgium

Learn about the Gravensteen Castle

One of the best things to do in Ghent is to check out the imposing Gravensteen Castle . This fortified structure was built in 1180 to house the Counts of Flanders.

Since 1353, it has been used as a court, a prison, a cotton factory, and a mint. As a result of its torturous and barbaric history, the castle was almost torn down. Ultimately, a preservation group realised its architectural significance, and it has since become a museum.

Today, you can tour the medieval castle , which is surrounded by a moat on three sides. The Arms Museum and the Museum of Judicial Objects display various weaponry from the castle’s dark past, including crossbows, spearheads, shackles, and a guillotine.

The audio guide is captivating and informative, and is available in multiple different languages.

Castle Gravensteen in Gent at sunrise, Belgium

Explore the Belfry of Ghent

Another significant medieval structure in the city is the Ghent Belfry. The 14th-century bell tower is 91 metres tall and is a recognizable part of Ghent’s skyline.

It was originally used as a watchtower, and the bells would warn residents of incoming threats in addition to announcing the time.

The 18th-century rotating drum in the tower plays a tune every hour. There are four different songs currently programmed, which are changed by the city carillonneur every two years.

For €8, you can climb the spiral stone staircase of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are various bells and chimes to look at on the way up, though the real reason to get to the top is for the amazing views over the old town.

Ghent, Belgium - View on the center of Ghent with Saint Nicholas Church in Belgium, from the Belfry tower

Get to know Ghent at STAM

If you’re eager to learn about Ghent and its long history, the Ghent City Museum (or STAM) is one attraction you shouldn’t miss. As one of the most thorough and modern museums in the city, STAM is best known for the Story of Ghent.

This permanent exhibit chronologically showcases Ghent’s history since the Middle Ages. This digital trip through time utilises 300 different collection pieces, and there’s an English audio guide available to enhance your experience.

See Saint Nicholas’ Church

Stop by one of Ghent’s most prominent structures, Saint Nicholas’ Church. Built during the 13th century, the blue Tournai stone structure is a great example of Scheldt Gothic architecture. Step inside and see the colourful stained glass windows, a beautiful 19th-century addition to the church.

Ghent / Belgium - Interiors of Saint Nicholas Church in Ghent, Belgium in Christmas decorations

Hop aboard the water tram

Ghent’s hop-on, hop-off water tram is a fun and different way to see the city. The water tram stops at six main locations: Veldstraat, Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, Saint Peter’s Abbey, the Museum Site, Graslei-Korenlei, and the Gravensteen Castle.

It can be a relaxing and pleasant way to rest your legs while still appreciating the beauty of the city. If you have the Ghent CityCard, it’s completely free as well.

GENT, BELGIUM, Evening view of Gent from the Kraanlei towards the Oude Vismarkt. Gent has a historic city centre and is a hugely popular tourist destination in East Flanders.

Relax at Citadelpark

After you’ve wandered the cobblestone streets for a while, you might be looking for a little bit of nature.

During the day, this beautiful green park is a pleasant oasis shaded by ancient tall trees. Why not put together a picnic from the local market and enjoy a peaceful outdoor lunch here?

Ghent, Belgium - Sculpture in the citadelpark is a park in the Belgian city of Ghent.

What to eat in Ghent

The people of Flanders love to get together and share a delicious meal. Fortunately, the superb restaurants and street-side eateries in Ghent make this easy. Here are some of the most well-known local dishes, as well as recommendations for where you can try them:

Belgian waffles: The iconic dessert that Belgium is known for, made with a lighter batter and larger squares than typical American waffles. For the best in the city, stop by Brasserie Agrea , Mokabon or Max Cafe . Be sure to enjoy with strawberries, chocolate sauce, powdered sugar, whipped cream or caramelised bananas.
Pommes frites: Potato fries, another Belgian classic! The locals love to eat their hot chips with unique sauces like andalouse, which is made with mayonnaise, tomato paste and peppers. De Frietketel and Frituur Jozef serve up some of the best pommes frites in Ghent. If you’re at a restaurant, you can also order moules frites to have your fries arrive with a side of mussels.
Waterzooi: A stew originating from Flanders with a thick, creamy vegetable-based broth. Traditionally it is made with fish, though chicken is more commonly used these days. Vegetables and herbs such as carrots, onions, leeks, potatoes, parsley and sage can also be included in the dish. Vier Tafels and ‘t Vosken both serve a delicious and authentic version.
Flemish hotchpotch: A meat stew with boiled vegetables, and quite different from the mashed hotchpotch you’ll find in the Netherlands. Order this warming dish at Du Progres or ‘t Klokhuys .

Chicken waterzooi - Belgian dish of stew originating in Flanders.

Where to stay in Ghent

You won’t find super cheap backpacker prices in Ghent, yet there are still some affordable places to stay that won’t break the bank. Ibis Budget Gent Centrum Dampoort is a superb option that provides incredible value for money.

The rooms are modern and clean, and there’s an open communal area to eat breakfast and socialise with fellow travellers.

The location is about a 15-minute walk away from the historic centre. However, it’s only a few hundred metres from the Gent Dampoort train station, making it a perfect spot to stay for day trips .

If you want to spend a little more but not go crazy, Hotel Carlton is ideal. The friendly staff who will instantly remember your name will have you feeling at home in no time.

The comfortable and cosy rooms feature a relaxing bath for you to soak in after a long day of sightseeing. The hotel is only 200 metres from Ghent Saint Peter’s railway station, and the peaceful Citadelpark is right around the corner.

For the most luxurious and memorable stay, 1898 The Post is the obvious choice. An old post office is the setting of one of Ghent’s most enchanting boutique hotels.

The deep emerald green walls, dark wood floors and antique furniture create a unique atmosphere you won’t find anywhere else in the city.

If you’re visiting Belgium during the colder months, you’ll definitely appreciate the open fireplace and inviting bar. The location is perfect too, situated by the Leie River near St Michael’s Bridge.

Ghent, Belgium - Hotel Gravensteen amazing building in the medieval historical city.

Tours to do in Ghent

There’s no better way to see a new city than with a walking tour. Head out on a free Ghent city walk and find out what the residents truly think about their home.

As well as visiting the must-see attractions, you’ll be shown the best local spots to eat, drink and have a great night out. Hear about the urban myths and legends behind the churches and squares, and get to know what makes Ghent unique.

Aside from chocolate and waffles, Belgium is known for its beer. Have a fun night out and join a two-and-a-half-hour beer tasting tour.

You’ll visit some of the city’s best bars and sample their finest selection of local beers, all while learning about Belgian brewing history. Tasty cheeses and other snacks are also included.

Bruges, Belgium - Belgian chocolate produced in Belgium. A major industry since the 19th century, today it forms an important part of the nation's economy and culture.

Day trips from Ghent

As pointed out earlier, Ghent is close to many other great Belgian cities. You can embark on a short, impromptu day trip to Bruges even if you sleep in late!

There are a ton of fun tours to join in this picture-perfect city. A two-hour walking tour with a local guide can show you around the colourful neighbourhoods and winding canals, pointing out the best historic sites in the city.

Afterwards, stop by the local market and taste some Belgian chocolate. A private medieval tour is a must for lovers of history.

Learn about the myths of the Minnewater Park lakes and visit Burg Square while hearing about more dark folklore tales.

Bruges, Belgium - Bruges sightseeing. Sunny Brugge cityscape with clear blue sky and old church. Church of Our Lady in Bruges.

Want to visit Antwerp for the day instead? Don’t miss a two-hour Legends of Antwerp tour. Explore the historic centre and learn about the city’s Golden Age.

Visit the Grote Markt, the Vleeshuis, the Rubens House, the Cathedral of Our Lady, Plantin-Moretus Museum and even more. Be sure to check out our Ultimate Travel Guide to Antwerp or 22 Things to do in Antwerp articles for even more tips and recommendations.

View on cathedral of our lady in Antwerp - Belgium

Recommended tours in Ghent

2,5h Authentic Beer Tasting Journey Ghent
Guided Boat Trip in Ghent
Belfort of Ghent Entrance Ticket
Public Chocolate Tour, with a local guide!
Experience Authentic Belgian Cuisine: Cooking Lesson and Meal with a Ghent Local

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

Luxury Guide To Brussels

Belgian’s capital city of Brussels is full of tasty chocolate, locally crafted beer, over 90 museums and a whole…

Budget guide for Bruges

Bruges is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. It has stunning architecture and history, along with…

The Ultimate Guide to Leuven

Leuven is a Belgian city east of the capital Brussels. It has a population of about 100,000 people, many…

17 Things to do in Ghent – That People Actually Do!

The port city of Ghent is the capital of the East Flanders province and one of Belgium’s most populous…

48 Hours in Kortrijk – 2 Day Itinerary

Many cities in Belgium offer charming centres with medieval architecture and a modern vibe, including the city of Kortrijk….

48 hours in Liège – A 2 day Itinerary

Nestled in the heart of Belgium, the city of Liège boasts a rich history, vibrant culture and warm hospitality….

Wanderlust Travel & Photos

Seeing the world one trip at a time.

Work With Me
Travel Journal
Privacy Policy
Browse by Continent
Australia Travel
Peru Travel
Thailand Travel
Browse by Region
East North Central
East South Central
Mid-Atlantic
New England
South Atlantic
West North Central
West South Central
Central America
North America
South America
Travel Vlog
Instagram Photos

The Complete Visitor’s Guide to Ghent, Belgium

LAST UPDATED: 2/3/24 – Visitor’s Guide to Ghent, Belgium

While France and Germany might get more accolades from travel publications, Belgium has every bit as much charm. In addition, the food is fantastic, and the people couldn’t be any nicer. I simply fell in love with the country the moment I landed.

But it wasn’t the big cities of Brussels and Antwerp that really won my heart. Instead, it was the smaller towns like Ghent and Brugge that really made me fall in love with Belgium.

Ghent Has Incredible Restaurants and Beer

Located at the confluence of the Scheldt and Leie rivers, the city of Ghent couldn’t be prettier. Much of the city is built up around these rivers, which intersect the city and give it its charm. The city’s incredible canal system is part of what has made Ghent such a popular tourist destination. Beyond its beauty, the city of Ghent is also well known for its cuisine and its beer.

In fact, according to the local tourism industry, there are 653 restaurants and 620 cafes in Ghent. And in those restaurants and cafes, there are over 250 kinds of beer available. This doesn’t even include the amazing chocolate you can buy in stores around the city. Nor does it include the delicious Belgian waffles that street vendors sell in bunches. In short, Ghent is a foodie’s dream come true.

An All-You-Need Guide to Ghent, Belgium

In this guide to Ghent, Belgium, I am going to give you all of the information you need. Using this information, you will be confident in planning a successful trip to Ghent. In addition to covering the best times to visit Ghent, I also discuss the best ways to get there. This way, you can maximize what you can see and do during your visit.

Speaking of your visit, I also discuss the top things to see and where to eat while you’re there. And if you are spending multiple days in Ghent, I give you some great accommodation recommendations as well. With this information in hand, planning your trip to see Ghent should be a breeze.

Ghent Visitor Guide Navigation Menu

At a glance.

Before you start making any travel plans, you need to be sure you meet the country’s entrance requirements. This includes all of the passport, VISA, and immunization requirements for Belgium.

In addition, you need to make sure you have a clear understanding of what languages they speak in Belgium. This way, you can plan any translation needs you may have. Not only that, but you will need to know what currency they use.

Knowing this, you can plan to exchange currency before your trip if necessary. I have included this key information in my guide to Ghent, Belgium below for you to review.

Passport, VISA, and Immunization Requirements

To assist you in navigating the legal requirements for visiting Belgium, I outline the key entry requirements below. I have included a link to my Belgium Passport, VISA, Customs, and Immunization Requirements for Visitors Guide, which you will want to review.

I have also linked to my article on the EU’s new ETIAS VISA requirements. These guides will give you all the information you need to ensure you are allowed entry into Belgium. This includes the VISA, passport, customs, and immunizations requirements and recommendations.

Packing Tips

Outside of knowing the entry and immunization requirements, there is no pre-travel task more important than packing. Don’t worry, I am here to make sure you are packed and prepared for your trip. I have included links to my packing resources in my travel guide to Ghent, Belgium below for you to review.

Top Things to See and Do in Ghent

Before planning your itinerary, you need to have an idea of what you would like to see in Ghent. There is a lot to see and do in the city, so you need to plan your time wisely. To assist, I have listed the top attractions for you to review in my guide to Ghent, Belgium below.

View Larger Map

The Gravensteen

Translated to mean the “Castle of the Counts”, the Gravensteen dates all the way back to 1180. It is a very cool medieval castle that is definitely worth checking out. The castle was the residence of the Counts of Flanders until 1354 and has served various other purposes throughout its life.

While the castle is really impressive to see from the outside, especially from the water, I would not recommend the tour of the inside. If you do want to tour the inside of the castle, it is open for visitors between 10:00am and 5:15pm daily, and an audio tour with headphones is available.

St. Michael’s Bridge (Sint-Michielshelling)

One of the prettiest spots in all of Ghent has to be on the St. Michael’s bridge . Known locally as Sint-Michielshelling, the bridge is in the epicenter of everything that makes Ghent the charming city that it is. From the bridge, you can capture a picture of all three of Ghent’s famous towers in a row.

If this weren’t reason enough to visit the bridge, it is also just a stone’s throw from the Old Fish Market and the Gravensteen. Or if you would just prefer to sit and people-watch for a bit, then St. Michael’s Bridge is a great place to do that as well.

St. Bavo’s Cathedral (Sint-Baafskathedraal)

One of the most visible and easily recognizable features of the city of Ghent is the tower of St. Bavo’s Cathedral . Located in the heart of the city of Ghent, St. Bavo’s church is the city’s oldest parish church and one of the most beautiful cathedrals in Belgium.

There is a ton of history behind this amazing church, so after you are done admiring its beauty from the outside, I would strongly recommend paying the inside of the church a visit to learn more about its past.

St. Bavo’s Abbey (Sint-Baafsabdij)

Another can’t-miss stop when visiting Ghent is St. Bavo’s Abbey . The abbey twice survived attacks by Vikings, but much of the complex was destroyed by the order of Emperor Charles V and a coercion castle was built on the site.

Included in the St. Bavo’s Abbey complex is St. Abbey’s church, which includes the oldest standing wall in the city of Ghent. I would highly recommend touring the remains of this once-beautiful abbey as it can teach you a lot about the history of the area.

Ghent Belfry (Belfort)

Another of the can’t-miss landmarks in the skyline of the city of Ghent is the Ghent Belfry , which is otherwise known as the Belfort. If you are looking at the city’s skyline, it is the middle tower in the famous row of three towers that dominate the city’s skyline.

Not only is it one of Ghent’s most visible buildings, but it is also one of the city’s most beautiful. With a stone dragon, seemingly guarding the entrance to the city, the tower is both foreboding and beautiful.

It has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site because of its beauty and historical significance. I would strongly recommend touring this beautiful building and learning more about it and the wonderful city it stands in.

The Ghent Canals (Graslei and Korenlei)

One of the city’s most noticeable landmarks and the pride of the people of Ghent are the canals that run through the city. The Ghent Canals have been used by ships to travel through the city since the 11th Century and they have played an important role in the culture of the city ever since.

In addition to their practical use, they are also part of what makes this city so beautiful and charming. There are few things better than an afternoon or evening walk along the canals in the city of Ghent.

As one of the oldest and most lively quarters in the city of Ghent, the neighborhood of Patershol is a must-stop destination when visiting Ghent. In addition to a plethora of wonderful restaurants and shops, this area is also home to some of the city’s best festivals and events.

Take a Canal Cruise

No trip to Ghent is complete without a ride on the canals. Ghent is such a beautiful city and the best way to take in that beauty is from the water. If you are interested in learning more about the boat rides in Ghent, there is some great information you can review on the Visit Ghent website .

Try the Belgian Waffles

I will admit, that one of my favorite parts of visiting Ghent was indulging in the absolutely delicious Belgian waffles (over and over). I am sorry, but they are so good. If you visit Ghent and don’t try the waffles, you are really missing out on one of life’s most delicious treasures.

Unlike in North America, waffles are eaten with either fresh fruit or chocolate on top (both equally as delicious) and whipped cream, instead of with maple syrup.

Have Some Belgian Beer

With over 250 different types of local beer to choose from, Ghent is a beer lover’s dream come true. When you visit Ghent, make sure you try at least a few of the local brews. If you are really into beer, you can also take a beer tour that will allow you to sample some of the more popular brews from the area.

How to Get to Ghent, Belgium

The city of Ghent is located in Northwestern Belgium in the Dutch-speaking part of the country. It is a very short train ride from the larger cities of Brussels and Antwerp and relatively close to both Paris and Amsterdam.

In fact, if you wanted to combine a visit to Ghent with a trip to either France or the Netherlands, you could probably even fit a visit to Ghent in as a day trip from those countries. However, I would certainly recommend you stay more than a day because there is so much to see and do.

To help give you a better understanding of where Ghent is located in proximity to some of the other popular tourist destinations in Western Europe, I have created a map with estimated travel times to Ghent from various cities. You can review this map in my guide to Ghent, Belgium below.

There are three primary languages spoken in the country of Belgium, with Dutch being the prevalent language spoken in Ghent and the rest of Northern Belgium.

If you are traveling to other cities in Belgium during your visit, you will want to keep the different lingual regions of Belgium in mind. To help you understand where each language is primarily spoken, I have included a map for you to review in my guide to Ghent, Belgium below.

Best Time to Visit Ghent, Belgium

Ghent is a city that is fun to visit year-round, but depending on what you are planning on doing when you visit, there may be certain months of the year that are better for you to visit than others.

To assist you in determining which month is best for you to visit, I have included some information for you to review in my guide to Ghent, Belgium below.

Average Temperature (°F)

The first factor that you will want to consider when deciding when it would be best for you to visit Ghent is the temperature. The temperature in Ghent is fairly mild year-round, but it can get a bit chilly during the winter months of December through February.

The months of June through September typically see the warmest temperatures, so if you plan on spending a considerable amount of time outside, these might be the best months for you to visit.

Average Precipitation (Inches)

The other weather-related factor that you will want to consider when planning your trip to Ghent is the amount of rain that you can expect to see when you visit.

To give you an idea of what the typical rainfall is throughout the year, I have included the chart below for you to review. As you can see, the Autumn months of October and November typically see the most rainfall, with February through April seeing the least amount of rain.

Where to Stay in Ghent, Belgium

One of the most important decisions you are going to have to make when planning your trip to Ghent is where you will stay. When you travel, the accommodations you choose are oftentimes amongst the biggest expenditures for your trip.

So not only do you need to be comfortable where you are staying, but you also need to be comfortable with how much you are paying to stay there. Finding the right accommodations for your trip involves looking at the amenities, the location, and most importantly, the price.

If you are starting to plan your trip to Ghent and want some hotel and hostel suggestions, I have included some great options at different price points for you to review in my guide to Ghent, Belgium below.

As always, don’t be afraid to expand your search to room-sharing sites such as Airbnb or VRBO if you aren’t finding a hotel or hostel that meets your needs.

Where to Eat in Ghent, Belgium

When most people plan a trip, the primary focus is on how to get there, where to stay, and what is on the list of things to see and do. What many travelers neglect to plan, is where to eat when you are there.

Granted, it is sometimes fun to be spontaneous when choosing a restaurant while traveling, and it is always smart to get recommendations when you arrive. However, it can also be advantageous to have some ideas of restaurants you would like to try during your trip written down beforehand as well.

This way you can be assured that you won’t miss out on a highly recommended culinary experience that you will regret. To help you decide on some restaurants to add to your list, I have included a list of some highly recommended options. You can review this list in my guide to Ghent, Belgium below.

Recommended Tours and Excursions in Ghent

There is an abundance of amazing things to see and do in the Ghent area and one of the best ways to experience those things is on a tour. If you are looking for fun tours and excursions to fill out your trip, I have included some category links to recommended tours and excursions you can review in my guide to Ghent, Belgium below.

Ghent, Belgium Photo Gallery

Ghent is one of those cities where it is nearly impossible to visit and not come away with some incredible pictures to share. I was able to capture a bunch of great shots when I visited and have shared some of my favorites with you in the gallery below.

If you would like to see more of my travel photography, I would also encourage you to give me a follow on Instagram . Putting this blog together to pass on my free guides, itineraries, and travel photography tips is a lot of work and your support in the form of a follow-on Instagram would be so very much appreciated!

Don’t Forget to Subscribe to My Adventures!

Type your email…

Let Me Help You Save On Your Next Adventure!

‘start exploring today’ merchandise available now.

Published by Josh Hewitt

Avid traveler and photographer who loves to see new places, meet new people, and experience new things. There is so much this world can teach us, we just need to explore! View all posts by Josh Hewitt

The Ultimate Gibraltar Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Segovia, Spain Travel Guide: Exploring the Historic City

Planning the Perfect Two-Week Thailand and Cambodia Itinerary

8 comments ›.

Fantastic guide. I visited for a day a few years back but it looks so much more spectacular with the sun shining and clear blue skies. Might have to try and go back soon! Belgium’s a vastly underrated country with the exception of Bruges.

Agreed!! Bruges will be my next Belgium guide. That city is unreal 😀👍

I look forward to it! It’s somewhere I need to go back to!

An excellent comprehensive guide on a great place to visit. I must say though that the audio guided tour of Gravensteen Castle was one of my daughter’s favourite things in Belgium. Kayaking around the waterways was also great fun!

Thank you so much for reading and the kind words! And thank you for sharing your personal experiences in Ghent. I didn’t get a chance to go kayaking while there. I’ll have to add that to my to do list for my next visit. 😀

Really great guide. Maybe interesting to mention how to travel by taxi too, like https://www.taxi222gent.be or other reputable companies. That’s a struggle to do as a tourist from personal experience.

Thanks so much for the feedback and the kind words!!

Discover more from Wanderlust Travel & Photos

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Subscribe To My Adventures!

ROOTS ABROAD

Explore with us

Weekend in Ghent | Complete Guide to Belgium’s Best-Kept Secret

Ghent, this aesthetic & trendy city is the ultimate European destination for a weekend trip. With its stunning medieval backdrop, interwoven with canals and bursting with quaint little bars and mouthwatering restaurants, it’s hard not to fall in love with this place. The fairytale-like city succeeded somehow to dodge the big hordes of tourists throughout the years and remains rather a hidden gem compared to its neighboring Bruges, Brussels, and Amsterdam . All the more reason to find your way here, because charm & ambiance wise Ghent sticks out above the others in our opinion.

Spending a weekend in this vibrant underrated town is a perfect idea. In this complete weekend guide, you will find everything you need to know for planning a getaway to Ghent. Besides sharing an exact route plan for each day , that you can alter to your liking, we will also share some useful tips, interesting tours to join, and the best places to book a night for your stay. Last but not least the cutest spots to find local specialties , the best bars to sample local beers and delicious restaurants to still your hunger.

No time to read now? Pin it to Pinterest for later!

* Disclosure: This Weekend in Ghent post contains affiliate links. We will receive a small commission if you book through our links. This is at no extra cost to you. This way you’re helping us write awesome travel guides and keep providing you with free content. We only recommend products we like and trust ourselves.

Complete Guide to Spending a Weekend in Ghent

Ghent is one of the oldest & largest cities in Belgium , however, remains one of the most underrated cities in Europe. Few people have heard of Ghent, unlike other popular city trip destinations such as Antwerp, Bruges , and Brussels. This intriguing university town has fresh vibes thanks to its youthful population but also traces of incredible history, featuring remarkably well-preserved medieval architecture . It’s a place where you can fully immerse yourself in the local culture since there are fewer tourist crowds surrounding you. Just like Bruges, this medieval town makes you feel like you are being transported back in time. Admire its many cathedrals, and glittering canals along the charming streets, and indulge in its delicious gastronomy.

There are plenty of unique things to do in Ghent to keep you entertained for more than a weekend. From an imposing castle right in the city center to a boat tour along the canals, from quirky bars with famous Belgian beers to delicious chocolate and waffles, Ghent has something to offer for everyone. The picture-perfect streets truly look handpainted by one of the many Flemish Masters.

READ MORE | Best 14 Things to do in Ghent | Hidden Gem Belgium

History of the medieval city of Ghent

Ghent is a city with a rich history that thrived during the Middle Ages as a cloth trading hub in Europe. Between the 11th and 16th centuries, Ghent was one of the most important economic centers of Western Europe after Paris, thanks to its port and strategic location along the Lys and Schelde Rivers. At one point it used to be a bigger city than Moscow or London if you can imagine! Its prosperous past & prestige can be seen reflected in the many well-preserved historic buildings and merchant houses .

Today, the city center is a lively and youthful meeting point characterized by an interesting blend of historical beauty and modern architectural treasures . Innovative museums and galleries are beautifully interwoven with medieval splendor. Of all the cities in Belgium, Ghent noticeably sticks out as a place of modernization and taking initiative for artistic projects. The vibrant town is known for its popular events and festivals as well as for having one of the most fascinating culinary scenes in all of Europe . No doubt that when visiting Ghent, you will have a good time here!

Things to Do on a Weekend in Ghent – Day 1

Ready to start exploring the magnificent city of Ghent? On our first day, we will cover the main highlights of the old city. Everything is located within walking distance and since the city is car-free, the best way is to explore everything on foot.

Step back in time at the Old Fish Market & Castle of the Counts

We are kicking off the first day at the Oude Vismijn , which is also the location of the Tourist Information Center . Here you can pick up a city plan and the Ghent City Card , which you should definitely consider getting if you are spending more than one day in Ghent. The card offers free entry to all Ghent tourist attractions and even includes a boat tour. You can find more information on this under the tips section of this post. The information center is already an interesting building on its own. The former Old Fish Market was fully renovated with a glass window expansion giving you a pretty view of the canals.

Outside you are currently on the Veerleplein which has some cozy cafés and quaint little buildings. From here we are heading towards the Castle of the Counts (or Gravensteen ), a moated protection settlement located right in the center. The fortress dates back to the Middle Ages and used to be the symbol of power and torture. These days you will find a museum inside that gives you a beautiful panoramic view of the city from the top!

Walk along the Lys River with its stunning medieval grandeur

Once you are done exploring the castle find your way toward the Burgstraat , where you will have a magnificent view of the Gravensteen and the stunning surrounding architecture. Afterward turn to your left into the Jan Breydelstraat , which has many quaint coffee bars housed in cute little houses. At the end of the street, you have a bridge on your left, called the Grasburg that runs over the river Lys.

On one side you have a beautiful view of the Oude Vismijn and Gravensteen that we visited earlier. The other side gives you an open view of the lively Graslei and Korenlei . A view that will leave you speechless, with all its medieval grandeur along the river. In the distance, you can already catch a glimpse of the famous 3 towers and the beautiful St. Michael Bridge.

Take your time to soak up all the beauty here, you can even go and grab a drink or take a seat along the water. There are always people gathering around here, definitely, in the summer this area gets quite filled! Small groups of youth sharing a drink, people kayaking on the river, boat cruises passing by, it really is the beating heart of Ghent!

Proceed on the right bank of the river, along the Korenlei. On the way towards the St. Michael bridge , you will pass by the Saint Michael church. Once on the bridge, you get a pretty vantage point of the breathtaking cityscape , which is our favorite. Next to the best views of the river, you can also behold the 3 towers , which are located almost in a row. It’s the perfect spot to take pictures of all the major highlights of Ghent and a popular postcard motive.

Shop traditional local delicacies

Once you took in all the beauty, cross over the bridge to the other side of the river, from where we will walk back in the direction of the Groentenmarket (Vegetable market). This bustling little square holds some of the best local specialty shops . You have several chocolatiers around like Zoetse or Neuhaus.

TAKE A TOUR | Discover the Belgian chocolate delights during a Chocolate tour through Ghent.

Head inside Bakery Himschoot for some delicious patékes (little pastries) or get some vintage mustard at the famous Tierenteyn-Verlent . This one is an established name in Ghent, and many people bring home mustard from here when they visit. The mustard is freshly spooned from a huge wooden barrel in their typical ceramic pots. A really unique gift to take home!

In front of these shops, you will see a food stall selling the signature candy of Ghent called Cuberdons . (better known as “Gentse Neuzen”) These purple conical-shaped candies are filled with raspberry-flavored goodness! Get a small bag to try them out first, but these are also sold in boxes that make lovely souvenirs.

Make sure to also quickly stop by on the other side of the square at the Great Butcher Hall . This 15th-century guild house was formerly an indoor meat market. It has been transformed into a great restaurant where you can try out local specialties. Inside you will find cured Ganda ham hanging from the wooden ceilings, just like back in the day.

Grab a bite and a drink at the Vrijdagmarkt

At this point, we have been walking for a while, so it’s a great moment to make a stop for a small bite and drink. Surrounded by gorgeous 18th-century buildings, the Friday Market (or Vrijdagmarkt ) is home to many bars and restaurants. You might encounter the weekly market on this square if you happen to visit Ghent on a Friday. A tradition, which has been ongoing since the 12th century. Grab a portion of fries with mayonnaise to feel like to true Belgian!

Check out the Dulle Griet , a legendary café that serves over 500 Belgian beers. This quirky bar has the tradition of taking in your shoe as a deposit for a beer in a shoe-shaped glass.

Discover Ghent’s Art scene & coziest neighborhoods

Of all the cities in Belgium Ghent definitely stands out for its flourishing art scene . The city is the frontrunner if it comes to taking the initiative for new artistic projects. This aspect is mostly visible in the Werregarenstraat, better known as Graffiti Street . The alleyway dedicated to street art was supposed to be a temporary project in the nineties but instead became one of the biggest sights of Ghent.

At the end of Graffiti Street find your way back to the waterside towards the Kraanlei . Here you’ll see plenty of inspiring art galleries along the Leie River, the perfect place for an afternoon stroll. The Kraanlei offers some amazing views of the buildings on the other side. One of them is the famous beer café in Ghent ‘ Het Waterhuis aan de Bierkant’ . It’s the perfect spot to sample a local beer in the afternoon.

TIP | If you are a sweet tooth, make a stop at Confiserie Temmerman to get some old-fashioned sweets and Ghent delicacies like the Cuberdons.

At this point, you are again close to the castle of the counts. Find your way to the adorable neighborhood of Patershol. This cluster of cobbled stone streets is one of the best hidden gems to hang out in, filled with cozy bars and restaurants. It’s known as the culinary heart of Ghent, so you will surely find the perfect place for dinner here since it has cuisines from all over the world. Whether you are fancying some Persian or Japanese dishes, or want to try out traditional Flemish cuisines, this area of the town has it all.

End the first day of your weekend in Ghent with a Canal Boat Tour

The perfect way to end your first day on a weekend in Ghent is by going on a leisurely canal boat tour along the Leie. Besides familiarizing yourself more with the city it also gives you another vantage point of the beautiful surroundings. And after all that walking, who wouldn’t enjoy just sitting back and relaxing while passing all this beauty? During a 40-minute tour , the captain slash tour guide will entertain you along the way with some interesting facts and insights into the city. Though, if you are anything like me, you will just dream away while absorbing the beautiful gingerbread-looking houses and won’t even pay attention to what he is saying :p.

Most of the tours take off at the intersection of Graslei and Korenlei. Tours cost around €9 per person, if you have the Ghent City Card, the boat tour is for FREE!

Enjoy the city of Ghent at night

Ghent totally comes alive at night, especially in summer. Many locals and mostly students gather around the Graslei and fill up those bar terraces. This is absolutely a socially trendy city! However, you can still find yourself in more peaceful places around the major sights that have been illuminated beautifully . Equally impressive at nighttime, so make sure to enjoy an evening stroll before calling it a night. Or maybe hit one of the pubs for a beer?

READ MORE | Best 14 Things to do in Ghent | Hidden Gem Belgium

Things to Do on a Weekend in Ghent – Day 2

On our second day after a nice breakfast, we will first head out for the 3 famous towers of Ghent. Towards the afternoon you can dedicate your time to some more off-the-beaten sights that Ghent has to offer.

Start your day at Korenmarkt & 1898 The post

We are kicking off the second day at the Korenmarkt (or wheat market ), a square that gets rather bustling during the day. Back in the day, a warehouse was standing on the spot of the Post building and corn was being traded there. The building as you can see has an eclectic style with many interesting details. Today the postal building holds a shopping mall on the lower floor and a 4-star hotel on the first floor called 1898 The Post .

TIP | Make sure to spend some time looking at the beautiful guild halls next to the Korenmarkt. In particular, Masons’ Guild Hall , where you can see six figures happily dancing on top of the stepped gable.

Visit the famous three towers

Without a doubt, you will have spotted the 3 towers from all over the city. These three medieval towers dominate the skyline of Ghent and form a picture-perfect row when standing on the St. Michiel’s Bridge. The first one you will pass when coming from the Korenmarkt is St. Nicholas’ Church , one of the oldest landmarks in Ghent. When walking further to the next tower, you will pass by an interesting architectural structure on the next square. The City Pavilion (or Stadshal ) is a modern masterpiece that really sticks out against the medieval landscape of Ghent. This piece of architecture has always been a subject of discussion and ridicule, you either love or hate it.

TIP | When walking around this area of town keep your eyes open for the Coin Route (or Muntenroute ). The clusters of coins each tell a piece of history of its surroundings through the engraved drawings.

The second tower is the Belfry of Ghent (or Belfort ), a UNESCO World Heritage Site that you simply cannot miss. It’s the tallest bell tower in all of Belgium with its 91-meter height. Climbing to the top of the Belfry Tower is a must-do on your weekend in Ghent. It gives you the best 360° panoramic view of the city .

The third iconic tower is the Saint Bavo’s Cathedral (or Sint-Baafskathedraal ), home to the famous altarpiece “The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb” by brothers Hubert & Jan van Eyck from the 15th century. It’s supposedly one of the earliest oil paintings in the world and is the most celebrated masterpiece of Flemish art. The cathedral itself is really stunning too, definitely worth spending some time gazing at its interior.

Marvel at the remarkable architecture

Here in the area of the towers, you will stumble upon many gorgeous other buildings. When passing the city pavilion, quickly take a look at the City Hall a little further, many statues and details on its facade are just impeccable. St Bavo’s Square is home to a row of beautiful colored houses and a magnificent Performing Arts Theater in front of the fountain. In the vicinity of the square, you can find the Rear Sickle building (or Achtersikkel ) a true hidden gem, not really known by tourists. This oasis of peace in the center of Ghent consists of a small brick corner tower that belongs to the conservatory. It has a beautiful terrace with a café where you can enjoy a drink while listening to the sound of rehearsals inside.

Many people decide to turn towards the shopping street here but just go on a little further otherwise you miss out on the second castle of Ghent. Located just a bit further you will find the Geeraard de Duivelsteen or the Castle of Gerald the Devil. Unfortunately, the building itself can’t be visited on the inside. There is however a cozy lunch bar located on the side to enjoy.

Hit the shops & the flower market

To take a break from all the sightseeing, another thing to do other than eating and drinking is obviously shopping on a city trip. If you love shopping, you will be happy to hear that Ghent is truly a shopaholic paradise . From all the big stores that can be found in the area of the Veldstraat , to the more luxury brands near Kouter Square . The hip city counts numerous small boutiques, vintage and second-hand shops to find more unique pieces.

When visiting on a Sunday there are also numerous markets all over town. One of the most popular must be the flower market (or Kouter Bloemenmarkt ) that is held on Kouter Square. A book market can be found along the water edge.

Indulge in Belgian Chocolates & Waffles

Just like in other Belgian cities, you can find a myriad of artisanal chocolate shops in Ghent with high-quality handmade chocolate. Ch ocolaterie Luc Van Hoorebeke and H ilde Devolder Chocolatier offer a nice variety.

TIP | A fun & interactive way to explore the city is by joining a chocolate tour . Not only will the guide entertain you with historical tales during the tour, but will also take you to some local chocolatiers to sample and learn more about the world of chocolate.

Who doesn’t love waffles? You will find this mouthwatering treat all over town. Grab one to go from a food cart or find your way to a brasserie and enjoy it with a coffee. Did you know there are all different kinds of waffles to be found? The most popular one is the Brussels waffle , an airy crispy waffle. And the Liege Waffle , made out of thicker dough with big chunks of sugar. We personally love the Brussels waffles at Amfora , a typical kind of Belgian Brasserie-style establishment.

Breath in some culture at one of the many museums

Ghent is home to many great museums, in case you have time left to squeeze one in. South of the city you can find a cluster of museums such as the Museum of Contemporary Art (S.M.A.K), the Museum of Fine Arts (MSK), and the International Convention Centre of Ghent (ICC). Just a little further lies the Ghent City Museum (STAM).

Taste some legendary local Belgian beers

One of the most well-known specialties of Belgium is beer. That’s why sampling some at one of the many cozy cafés is a must thing to do while in Ghent. The beer scene of Ghent is one of the best and you will find many craft beers and local brews besides all the big names. Browse further to the section of Best Beer spots in Ghent , to find our personal hotspots!

BOOK A BEER TOUR | Learn more about the history and brewing process of beer during a guided Beer Tour through Ghent. The tour includes multiple tasting sessions at multiple locations!

Want to experience a local beer brewery right in the heart of Ghent? Head over to the Gentse Gruut Stadsbrouwerij . Tucked away in a corner of the city, you can enjoy a beer tasting with some cheese platters in their interesting setting. A super fun activity to close off a day of exploring!

Essential travel information for a weekend in Ghent

Travel basics for a weekend in ghent.

Ghent, Gent, or Gand? All three names refer to the same location, Ghent is the English way, Gent is Dutch/German and Gand is in French.

Language? Belgium has three official languages, Dutch (Flemish dialects), French, and German, hence the many name variations for Ghent. Ghent is located in the Flemish region of Belgium where people mostly speak Dutch. Overall most people can speak English very well, definitely in the bigger cities.

Currency? The official currency in Belgium is the Euro (€).

How to pay for things? Most places like hotels, bars, and restaurants all accept cards, the only place you might need to bring cash is the market. ATMs are quite widely spread, and exchange offices are not really common.

Plugs? In Belgium Type E power plugs are being used, with the standard 230V voltage and a standard frequency of 50 Hz. So if you come from outside of Europe, make sure to check for a travel adaptor .

Safety? Overall Belgium is a very safe country, however, always be aware of your surroundings and use common sense. Pickpocketing can always occur in tourist areas of bigger cities, just like all over Europe.

Best time to travel to Ghent

Ghent is beautiful all year round in my personal opinion. However, the city comes alive during the warmer months, when you will see many students and locals enjoying the terraces, social events, festivals, and gatherings along the waterways. Nonetheless, Ghent has so many interesting indoor activities, that even on a rainy day you will always find something to do. Based on climate conditions, the cost of accommodation, and avoiding big crowds, the months of April and September are probably best to go.

In April, and spring overall, you might still need a jacket, but there is the least chance of rain. The same goes for September and early October, our personal favorite times to go. Temperatures are comfortable and still pleasant to enjoy outside terraces.

The warmest temperatures in Ghent can be found from June to August, however, this is also the peak tourist season . In July there is the Gentse Feesten (Ghent festival), an annual music festival that attracts huge crowds. During winter the city gets extra cozy when it starts to shimmer with all the beautiful lights in anticipation of the Christmas markets. After the holidays, from January till March, Belgium overall becomes quite grey and the weather is very unpredictable. However Ghent still has its charm, you will miss out on the cozy atmosphere of the terrace culture of warmer months.

How many days do you need in Ghent?

It is possible to cover most of Ghent’s key highlights in a single day . The city center is rather compact and it’s easy to get around to all the attractions. However, we absolutely recommend at least two days to fully immerse into all this city has to offer. This way you can enjoy a drink once in a while on one of the cozy terraces, wander around the many shops, and indulge in the local specialties such as waffles, Cuberdons, and chocolate. This is absolutely what the Flemish or Flamand Burgundian lifestyle is all about, enjoying good food and drinks in a leisurely way with good company. Hey, it’s all about merging into the local culture right?

How to get around Ghent?

The historic center of Ghent is rather compact and all its main attractions are located within walking distance from each other. The good news is that the center is car-free, so super pedestrian-friendly to explore everything on foot! If you want to give your feet a break, it’s good to know that Ghent has an excellent public transport system . There are many buses and trams available that will take you all over town from early in the morning till late in the evening.

Another way to soak up the atmosphere of the city is by bike , an easy and quick way to discover all the hidden gems if you have only one day to spend in Ghent. Join a 2.5-hour cycling tour of Ghent to see all the highlights as well as many off-the-beaten tracks joined by an enthusiastic guide.

Are you short on time but want an in-depth tour to see everything of Ghent in one day? An option is to join a 2-hour guided Walking tour of Ghent for only €15 pp which includes a city discount card.

Tips On Visiting Ghent

Walk everywhere – It’s the best way to soak up the atmosphere and explore the city. All the sights are close to each other and most of the city is pedestrian only anyways. So it’s really pleasant to walk everywhere.

Wear Comfy shoes – The next tip goes hand in hand, wear comfy shoes! These historic cobblestone streets aren’t made to walk in heels, so opt for a pair of cute sneakers.

Join a free walking tour – Taking a walking tour is the best way to learn more about the city’s history, get insider facts, and cover all the main sights. A popular FREE tour is The Legends of Ghent , which takes you on a 2-hour guided walking tour along the highlights of this gorgeous city. An enthusiastic local guide talks you through a journey of the legendary past of Ghent with history and funny stories. Further, they will also provide you with some extra tips, interesting facts, and hidden gems you might miss out on otherwise!

Get yourself a Ghent City Card – If you are considering spending more than one day, getting a Ghent City Card is a great idea to make the most of your time. The card offers you free entry to all tourist attractions, museums, public transport, a boat tour, and even a free bike rental for a day. You can get the card at the Tourist Office and all participating museums and hotels. The price for the 48-hours card is 38€ and 44€ for the 72-hours card. Normally we aren’t the biggest fans of these types of cards, but if you do the math and consider that most attractions are easily €10, you can see it’s worth getting it.

Checklist & what to bring on a weekend in Ghent

The below is not imperative, but it can help make your travels worry-free during a weekend in Ghent:

Bring already some converted Euros with you
Check Visa Requirements
Universal travel adaptors
Power Bank for your phone
Offline Map (phone app)
Comfortable shoes
Directions to your accommodation

Best places to eat on a weekend in Ghent

As mentioned before Ghent city is a foodie Walhalla with a wide range of cuisines to choose from. In general, you simply cannot visit Belgium without indulging in all the delicious waffles, chocolates, fries, and beers! Here we will list the best places to try out traditional food during your weekend in Ghent:

Breakfast Spots in Ghent

Gust – A delightful little brunch spot located a 10-minute walk from the old town. They serve some delicious breakfast dishes, with some vegan-friendly options. Portions are quite big for good value.

Oats Day Long – If you love a portion of healthy oats, this is your place! You can also find pancakes, avocado toasts, salads, acai bowls, and amazing coffee here. Everything you need to fuel up for a day of exploring!

Simon says – If you are looking for a traditional breakfast place serving eggs, cold-cut platters, croissants, and yogurts this is the place to go. This small cozy coffee has some great coffee and friendly staff.

Lunch & Dinner Spots in Ghent

t’K lokhuys – Serving all the traditional Flemish specialties on the menu such as the local Gentse Waterzooi, Meat stew (or stoofvlees ), mussels with fries, steak, and more.

Amadeus – A Belgian franchise and favorite for unlimited all-you-can-eat spare ribs (a Volonté like we say it).

Meme Gusta – For all the classics from grandmother’s kitchen but with a modern twist.

‘t Oud Clooster – Located in a cozy atmosphere with a nice service to enjoy all the traditional Flemish dishes. Food is served in generous quantities, so make sure to show up with an appetite! They have a lovely courtyard in the back if you come in summer.

Pakhuis – Looking for a cool venue for a special occasion? Pakhuis is an established name in Ghent, known for its lovely setting with a styled warehouse vibe. Most people go here to enjoy their fabulous seafood platters or oysters or flemish mussels pots.

Quick Bites

Rather fancy a quick bite? We Belgians love our fries! Here are a few places to grab a pack if you quickly want to still your hunger:

Frituur Tartaar – Your typical Belgian place to get some good fries in the center of Ghent.

Frites Atelier – Not your average ‘frituur’ like how we call the place to get your fries. This fancy place is a known franchise by renowned chef Sergio Herman. They offer some of the best fries out there with special toppings. Besides the classic mayonnaise, they also offer gourmet sauces such as truffle sauce.

Beer & Appetizer Spots in Ghent

Dulle griet.

One of the most unusual ones must be bar Dulle Griet , located on the Vrijdagmarkt. This place boasts a selection of over 500 Belgian beers, the largest in all of Ghent. The interior is absolutely special, with a lot going on and you don’t know where to look first. The funniest part of visiting the Dulle Griet is the tradition of trading your shoe for beer. It’s like a deposit for a special beer glass, and you get your shoe back after settling the bill.

Het Waterhuis aan de Bierkant

Our personal favorite is Het Waterhuis aan de Bierkant , a typical “brown pub” (or Bruine Kroeg) that apparently was once a brothel. It’s a beloved spot amongst beer lovers, definitely in summer when you can enjoy their terrace on the waterfront. It’s located right in the historic center and you will pass it by several times. They have 165 beers on the menu to choose from, but we suggest ordering the Delirium Tremens, which is brewed right outside Ghent. Order some cold-cut platters with mustard (they serve the one from Tierenteyn-Verlent !) which pairs amazingly with beer. This is a typical Belgian thing to do, enjoying a beer with some cheese on the side. Now relax and soak in the beautiful views!

Trollekelder

Another typical Belgian beer pub is the Trollekelder , which comes with a fun interior theme of ‘Trolls’. the pub is set in a 15th-century basement which lends itself to a cozy atmosphere. There are more than 300 beers to choose from, of which their own Trollenbier. A fun fact is that the basement used to be a library until the 1980s.

Barrazza Café

And last not but least, our favorite hidden gem, Barrazza café . This lovely place gives you a view of the river Lys and if you are lucky you can even get a sunny seat right next to the water. You can take this quite literally since you are sitting right on the banks of the river. Enjoying a drink here feels like you escaped the hustle and bustle of the city. From the Kraanlei Waterfront, you can catch a nice view of the café.

For Wine Lovers

Gouts & Couleurs – Beautiful wine bar with an extensive offer of wines, which you can enjoy with some delicious cheese and cold-cut platters.

Bar Win – Perfect spot to enjoy an aperitive with some tasty bites.

Coffee & Dessert spots in Ghent

Mokabon – An old-school coffee house place where you can find some delicious freshly roasted coffee.

Madame Bakster – For the best cakes, pancakes, and pastries, with a lot of vegetarian, vegan-friendly, and gluten-free options.

Amfora – Our go-to place for the best classic Brussels waffles with fresh whipped cream! Set in a typical brasserie-style restaurant, right in the shopping district. They have a lovely terrace to enjoy, perfect for people-watching.

Julie’s house – Great afternoon tea house for some pie or cupcakes in a cute setting.

Ch ocolaterie Luc Van Hoorebeke and H ilde Devolder Chocolatier for the best artisanal handmade chocolate bonbons (pralines).

Aux Merveilleux de Fred – For meringue treats, merveilleux pastries and delicious chocolate-chip bread.

Bakery Himschoot – Pick up some delicious pastries (patékes in Dutch) or Waffles for the on-the-go.

Best Places to Stay for a Weekend in Ghent

We suggest staying close to the city center if it’s your first time spending a weekend in Ghent. This way you are close to all the major highlights and can truly enjoy the atmosphere of the city. Since Ghent is less known than Bruges or Brussels, you can definitely find some great-value hotels.

Best Budget places in Ghent

Hostel Uppelink – Located in the heart of the city near all the main attractions. The Hostel itself is in a historic building with clean rooms and has a really helpful staff.

B&B HOTEL Gent Centrum – The perfect base to explore the city of Ghent from, its central location just can’t be beaten. This stay offers everything you need for a basic, clean & comfortable room.

Best Mid-Range accommodations in Ghent

Maison Margo – Stylish rooms, ideally situated in the center, but a peaceful oasis for its visitors. Guests can enjoy the inner courtyard and an amazing wine bar.

Yalo Urban Boutique Hotel Gent – Design hotel with a breathtaking rooftop bar that overlooks Ghent. They have their own in-house restaurant and bar to enjoy and offer private parking on-site if you come by car.

Best Luxury hotels in Ghent

1898 The Post – A gorgeous boutique hotel located in the iconic former 19th-century post office building at the Korenmarkt. The rooms are decorated with antique furniture pieces in combination with a sleek design. Guests can enjoy a seating area with an open fireplace that overlooks Ghent, as well as an in-house cocktail bar called The Cobbler.

Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Reylof – Located in a luxurious townhouse with a lush courtyard to enjoy, this boutique hotel has everything to spoil its guests, with a wellness center, bar, and lounge.

How to get to Ghent for the weekend?

Ghent is located in the Flemish part of Belgium , more specifically in the North West. It’s the third largest city in Belgium, but to be fair we all know Belgium is tiny. Hence most big cities aren’t too far away from each other and are easily accessible by public transport .

If you are flying into Belgium you most likely arrive at Brussels airport (BRU) in Zaventem, from which Ghent is only a little over an hour away by train. The city is in the midpoint of Bruges in the West, Antwerp in the East, and Brussels in the South. Each of them is around a 30-minute train ride away and trains run frequently and are not really expensive. It’s really easy to make a day trip to Ghent from any of these cities.

Here is a breakdown of how to get to Ghent for the weekend from these other cities:

Getting from Brussels to Ghent

It’s really easy and fast to travel from Brussels to Ghent by train . There is a direct intercity train (IC) that only takes 35 minutes from Brussels Central or Bruxelles-Midi station to Ghent (Sint-Pieters Station). The train ticket for one-way from Brussels to Ghent costs around 11€. If you are coming from the Airport, there is a direct train that takes around 1 hour. If you transfer over to Brussels Midi station you have more options to choose from.

TIP | Traveling through Belgium during the weekend by train can get you a 50% discount with the Weekend Ticket! Check online for train tickets to Ghent.

By car , it will take you around 50 minutes from Brussels (Belgian traffic can be the worst). You can’t drive into the city since it’s car-free but there are many parking garages around.

Join A Tour

You can also book a guided day tour from Brussels to explore the city of Ghent. This way you can visit all the top sights while learning more about its history along the way.

Day trip with the bus to Ghent from Brussels

Day trip to Antwerp & Ghent from Brussels, with a picture stop at the Atomium

Day trip to Bruges & Ghent from Brussels

Getting from Bruges to Ghent

Bruges is located quite close to Ghent, some people even visit both cities in one day during a tour. Personally, we aren’t the biggest fan of doing that, since you will only get a glimpse of each. Each city deserves at least one day on its own. The easiest and fastest way to get to Ghent from Bruges is by train . There is a direct intercity train (IC) going from Bruges station to Ghent Sint-Pieters station and runs frequently throughout the day. The ride only takes 30 minutes and costs around 9 euros one-way.

Getting from Antwerp to Ghent

Getting to Ghent from Antwerp by train is equally easy, but takes a little longer. The intercity train (IC) takes you from Antwerp Central Station to Ghent Dampoort Station in roughly 50 minutes. The train ticket costs around 11 euros one way.

Once you arrive at Ghent Sint-Pieters station, it’s a 25-minute walk to the historic city center. If you don’t feel like walking, there are trams 1 and 22 that take you to the Korenmarkt. They run every 10 minutes or so and you can get a Tram ticket at the Lijnwinkel (ticket shop) inside the railway station.

We hope this guide to a Weekend in Ghent helped you out. You can show some ❤ and support for the blog and help us share more adventures! Our travels are entirely self-funded, so any show of support is greatly appreciated. It allows us to keep writing helpful travel guides and gather information to make it easier for people to discover the world.

Pin it to Pinterest for later!

10 Amazing things to do in Dinant, Belgium

The Best 21 Things to do in Romantic Bruges

Best things to do in Ghent, the hidden gem of Belgium, on a day trip to the medieval city

Best 14 Things to do in Ghent | Hidden Gem Belgium

How to spend the perfect Weekend in Bruges, Belgium

Ghent: A guide to Belgium's most charming city

Updated: Sep 17, 2022

Ghent is the most charming city in Belgium in our opinion. Often compared to Bruges, it has beautiful buildings, 2 rivers, and an important history. During the Middle Ages, Ghent was a wealthy and prominent city-state mainly due to the manufacturing of cloth made from English wool. Today, it’s a university town and cultural hub full of amazing architecture, such as the 12th-century Gravensteen castle. From towering churches to detailed statues and peaceful canals, there are hundreds of charming views to take in here. In this article, we'll break down how to get to Ghent, everything you need to know before going there, where to eat and drink, where to stay, and the best things to do in Ghent.

Check out our video about Ghent to get a sense of what it's like there!

How to get to Ghent

The city of Ghent is located in the northwest of Belgium, at the confluence of two rivers, the Leie and the Schelde. Ghent has a perfect location. It is only 50 kilometers from Brussels , 50 kilometers from Bruges , 55 kilometers from Antwerp , and 65 kilometers from Ostend . You have the option to fly into 3 different airports when visiting Ghent.

You can fly to Brussels Airport , take a train to Brussel Central , and then another train to Gent Sint Pieters . This will only take you an hour. Book your flight with Skyscanner to get the cheapest options!

Another option is flying to Ostend-Bruges International Airport , taking a shuttle to Ostend Station , and then a direct train to Gent Sint Pieters which takes 40 minutes.

The last option is flying to Lille Airport , taking a shuttle to Lille Flandres , a train to Kortrijk , and then a train to Gent Sint Pieters. The train journey will take you an hour and 30 minutes. If you don't want to take a train from the airport you can rent a car through rentalcars.com .

Use our map below to get directions to Ghent as well as directions to the best things to do there, which we mention later in this article.

Important things to know before you go to Ghent

The best time to visit Ghent is between June and October . The weather is best from June to September, but October is the month when all the students come back to the city so the atmosphere will be amazing. In October, the weather will be less ideal but the students will be back in the city because the university has started again. This means the atmosphere in the city will be buzzing.

Flemish is the main language spoken in Ghent. It is very similar to Dutch. Most people (especially in the tourism sector) will also speak French and English .

Ghent is safe, especially in the center and during the day. In the evening, be aware of drunk people. Be cautious when going to the Brugse Poort, het Zuid , the Overpoort (if you're partying there just watch out that you don't get involved in fights), and all the parks at night.

Try and visit Ghent on the first Sunday of the month. All the stores will be open and the busses and trams will be free. The center of Ghent is not big, so you can walk everywhere. However, the station is pretty far from the center so we recommend taking the tram (line 4) which is normally €2.50/per person for one ride. It's free on the first Sunday of the month.

Where To Stay In Ghent

Budget accommodations in ghent.

Hostel Uppelink

Guesthouse PoortAckere : is in a former monastery

Medium-priced accommodations in Ghent

Getaway Studios Gent

Baeten's bed and breakfast

Premium accommodation in Ghent

Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Reylof Ghent

1898 The Post

Where to eat and drink in Ghent

Where to eat in ghent:.

Bridge : has amazing meat stew

Frituur Tartaar : very good fries in the center of Ghent

Chocolatier Deduytschaever : has won multiple prices for their chocolate

Chocolaterie Vandenbouhede : has the craziest flavors of chocolate

't Klokhuys : has all the specialities of Ghent and Flandres such as Gentse Waterzooi, Flemish meat stew (stoverij), and much more.

O'yo : a healthy place for brunch and lunch with lots of vegan options

De Kastart : best pasta in the city

Amadeus : unlimited spare ribs

Where to go for a drink in Ghent:

Dulle Griet : has the biggest selection of beers in Ghent

Het Spijker : one of the most popular bars for students

Ghent Gruut Brewery : a brewery in the center of Ghent where you can try the beer

Barazza Café : has a cozy terrace next to the river

Best things to do in Ghent

There are so many things to do in Ghent that sadly we couldn't include them all in our list. We do want to mention the following attractions/things to do because they are also really fun.

De Krook (especially at night when the lights are on)

Delirium brewery

Beer tasting

Chocolate tasting

City bike tour

STAM Ghent City Museum

Now, let's move on to the best things to do in Ghent!

7. Try the local delicacies

One of our top recommendations for things to do in Ghent is to try the local delicacies. Belgium in general has tasty food and drinks, such as waffles, french fries, and Belgian Beer. But in Ghent specifically, you can try Delirium Tremens . It’s one of the best beers in Belgium and is brewed about 15 minutes outside the city center. We also recommend a tasty local candy called a “ Gentse Neusje ”, which looks like a human nose, but tastes like heaven. And finally, you have to try a “ Julientje ”. A Julientje is a dish with fries, mayonnaise, flemish stew saus ( stoofvleessaus ), satékruiden, viandel, and crispy onions. It was invented by de Gouden Saté in the party street of Ghent, the Overpoort .

6. Walk around Patershol

Patershol is one of the prettiest neighborhoods in all of Ghent. With unique architecture, well-preserved cobbled streets, and serene views of the canals, this is a must-visit spot. Walking around here will make you feel like you’re back in the Middle Ages. There are also many cozy pubs in this area to enjoy.

5. Free walking tour of the historic center

At number 5, we recommend taking a free walking tour of the city. Starting at Hostel Uppelink next to the Saint Michaels Bridge , you’ll learn all about the history of Ghent. Including how Ghent came to be one of the largest towns in Northern Europe in the 13th century. On the tour, you’ll stop by some of the most famous tourist attractions in all of Ghent. This includes the three main churches ( Saint Nicholas Church , Saint Bavo’s Cathedral , and Belfry ) , the City Hall , Gravensteen Castle , and the Graffiti Street where it is legal to spray graffiti. The free walking tour finishes in front of the St. Bavo’s Cathedral. This is where you can find The Ghent Altarpiece, which is also called the “Adoration of the Mystic Lamb”. It’s worth checking it out inside the church! This artwork was created in the 15th century and is considered a masterpiece of European art.

4. Visit the Castle of the Counts (Gravensteen Castle)

The Gravensteen Castle , also known as Castle of the Counts, towers high above the canal. The current castle dates back to 1180 and was the residence of the Counts of Flanders until 1353. During the industrial revolution, it was even turned into a cotton mill at one point. Now, the castle is a museum and a major landmark in the city. We highly recommend doing the audio-tour that is both funny and interesting.

3. Chill at Graslei or Korenlei

The touristic hotspot of Ghent is definitely the Graslei or Korenlei . Located directly across from each other on opposite sides of the river, these two quays are part of the medieval port that hosted ships since the 11th century. Take a moment to appreciate the details in the buildings here, such as the swans on the Marriott hotel at Korenlei. The swan swimming to the left symbolizes women, whereas a swan swimming to the right alludes to drinks. The fun part about the Graslei and Korenlei is that it is a place where tourists and locals get mixed together. During lunchtime in the school year, you'll see that it is full of students eating their lunch while during the vacations it is full of tourists and locals enjoying the sun and architecture.

2. Enjoy The Festivities

Ghent is known around Europe for having some of the best festivals during holiday months. In the winter for the last few weeks of December, you can enjoy a cozy Christmas market . At the market, you will find warm glüh-wine, a variety of jenever shots, waffles, rides, and an ice skating rink. In the summer, Ghent transforms the downtown center into the Gentse Feesten . For 10 days at the end of July, over 1 million people flood the streets to enjoy free concerts at multiple stages throughout the city. The good vibes are flowing here all day long and you won’t have a shortage of entertainment options to choose from.

1. Kayak or boat tour on the river

One of the best things to do in Ghent is to take in the views from the canals. You have two options to do this. One is to rent your own kayak and go at your own pace. In this way, you can take your time at each spot depending on how long you want to stay there. To rent a kayak, head to Hostel Uppelink . The other option is to do a 50-minute guided boat tour. Here, you’ll get a short history lesson while you admire Ghent's most famous sights from a unique view on the water. The tour is conducted in English, Dutch, and French and is a great option if you just want to relax on the water and take in the beauty of the city. You can save time by pre-booking the medieval boat tour here .

Free Giveaway

Did you enjoy our article on the best things to do in Ghent? Download our free giveaway and spark your wanderlust with our top 100 travel destinations around the world!

Other Top Ghent resources:

If you're looking for some other information on Ghent and the best things to do there, here are some great articles that will help you:

10+ memorable things to do in Ghent: the gem of Belgium by The Invisible Tourist

17 Best Things to Do in Ghent by Travel Addicts

19 Fun Things To Do In Ghent, Belgium For Any Kind Of Weather by Wonderful Wanderings

Need more travel inspiration? Check out our other destinations and other articles about Belgium:

Bruges, Belgium: 5 Must-Do Things In Bruges

Luxembourg: The ultimate travel guide to one of Europe's smallest countries

Hi! We are Ine & Zac. An international travel couple from Belgium and the US. We created World Wild Hearts to inspire life-changing travel experiences like we've had. Use these tips, stories, and guides to inspire your next adventure of a lifetime!

SAVE MONEY ON YOUR TRIPS

DOWNLOAD FREE TRAVEL RESOURCES

WATCH OUR TRAVEL VIDEOS

This post contains a few affiliate links. That means we may earn a small commission when you click on the links at no additional cost to you. You can read our full disclaimer here . Thanks for supporting our travel blog!

COMPREHENSIVE TRAVEL PLANNER

1 Understand
2.1 By train
2.3 By plane
2.4 By boat
3.1 On foot
3.2 By bicycle
3.3 By public transportation
4.1 Museums
7.1.1 City centre
7.1.2 Heuvelpoort
7.2 Mid-range
7.3 Splurge
7.4 Vegetarian and vegan food
8.1 Central Area: Castle-Korenmarkt-Graslei
8.2 Sint-Jacobs & Vrijdagmarkt (Vlasmarkt-Beestenmarkt)
8.3 Student area
8.4 Off the beaten path
9.2 Camping
9.3 Mid-range
9.4 Splurge

Ghent (Dutch: Gent , French: Gand ) is a city in East Flanders in Belgium . Ghent is a city with a population of 265,000 in 2020, with rich history. At the same time, Ghent has a relatively high proportion of young people, and a significant seasonal student population.

Understand [ edit ]

During the Middle Ages, Ghent was one of the richest and most powerful cities in Europe. It was once considered the second largest city north of the Alps , after Paris. The impact of this rich past can be clearly seen when viewing the imposing architecture of churches and the houses of rich traders. The whole of the city center is restored in this fashion, and still breathes the atmosphere of a thriving late-medieval city state. As the city council made the center free of cars, it is now a very welcoming and open area, which does not fail to impress even the people who live there.

Unlike Leuven, another university town in Flanders, youth is not the only category of people living there. There is an interesting mixture of foreigners who came to live there, professionals working for major international firms, and artists among the people of Ghent. This mixture makes the people more tolerant and open-minded. This atmosphere seeps into every aspect of city life, making the city different from the smaller provincial cities or the bigger city of Antwerp .

Get in [ edit ]

By train [ edit ]

Ghent is a 30-minute train ride away from Brussels and is on the line from Brussels to Bruges and the coast. If you're planning to visit Bruges and Brussels, definitely stop over in Ghent as well. There are also direct trains to Brussels Airport ( BRU IATA ), Antwerp , and Lille .

If you're visiting from Bruges, Brussels or Antwerp during the weekend, it's much cheaper to get a return ticket (special rate: weekend return ).

Trip planning and ticket purchase can be done on the SNCB website [dead link] or the SNCB app.

By car [ edit ]

The dense highway network in Belgium allows you to access Ghent easily by car. Two main highways E40 (Liège-Brussels-Ghent-Bruges-Ostend) and E17 (Antwerp-Ghent-Kortrijk-Lille) cross at Ghent. Brussels and Antwerp are 40 min away, Bruges 30 min. During rush hour you can easily double these times.

By plane [ edit ]

The two biggest airports nearby are Brussels (Zaventem, Belgium) and Lille (France). Direct trains are available from Brussels Airport to Ghent.

By boat [ edit ]

DFDS operates a cargo line to Gothenburg , Sweden .

Get around [ edit ]

On foot [ edit ]

The centre of Ghent is quite small, so you can walk around on foot. However, the main station (Gent Sint-Pieters) is not in the city center, but takes a walk of about half an hour. The best option is to take the tram, which takes you directly to the centre in 10 to 15 minutes.

By bicycle [ edit ]

A bicycle is the recommended way to get around in Ghent. However, there are many roads with cobblestones that make cycling a shaking experience. Also make sure you stay clear of the tram rails. Nevertheless, you will see you are not alone on your bike: many inhabitants use bikes to get around. Even the former mayor uses his bicycle all day. There are many bike stands around to make it easy to lock your bike (important!). Many one-way roads are made two-way for bikes.

By public transportation [ edit ]

The transport system is Ghent is excellent and usually on time. The transportation company is De Lijn [dead link] , whose website is available in English. A single ticket costs €2.50 if bought in the bus or tram (contactless only from white card reader) or from ticket machines near stops. Such a ticket is valid for an hour's travel on all trams and buses. If you are planning to stay for a while, either buy a three day pass for €15 or 10 trips for €17 — they are valid for within the city and can also be used throughout Flanders (e.g. Antwerp or Bruges ). The trams are the quickest and most comfortable way to travel, especially from the railway station to the city centre. There are 3 tram lines 1 , 2 & 4 .

There is a De Lijn app available for Android or IOS smartphones which offer journey planning, real time travel info and ticket purchase in English.

Tickets purchased on a card should be validated on the reader (not the white one) when entering the bus/tram while tickets purchased on the website or app should be validated before entering the vehicle. With a few exceptions, the tickets are usable throughout Flanders.

In the Lijnwinkel kiosk, near Sint-Pieters train station, you can get a free map of city and surroundings, with all bus and tram lines.

See [ edit ]

51.053946 3.722947 4 Sint-Niklaaskerk ( St Nicholas's Church ), Korenmarkt (entrance on Cataloniestraat) ( tram 1 or 4 to Korenmarkt ), ☏ +32 9 225 37 00 . M 14:30-17:00; Tu-Su 10:00-17:00 . A mixture of surviving Romanesque elements of the Flemish architectural style known as Schelde Gothic, the impressive 13th- to 15th-century church was paid for by Ghent's wealthy medieval merchants and guilds. It has undergone extensive renovation work that's still ongoing. The tower is one of the "three towers of Ghent" - in fact, it was the first of the three to grace the city skyline. Free admission .

Groentenmarkt, Korenmarkt & Vrijdagmarkt . Groentenmarkt (literally: vegetable market, Korenmarkt (literally: corn market) and Vrijdagmarkt (literally: Friday market) are 3 public squares in central Gent. These 3 squares are in close proximity and feature classic buildings, cafes and restaurants.
Leie . The Leie is a canal-like river going through the city. Along much of the river, there are walkways, and near the city centre one can see classic buildings along the banks. At the south end of Lindenlei (a street along the Leie south of the city centre), one can see a somewhat old-fashion drawbridge.

51.046432 3.736034 9 Begijnhof Ter Hoye , Lange Violettestraat ( about 1¼ km south-east of Korenmarkt ). This béguinage (begijnhof) has several streets.
51.05546 3.72463 11 Graffiti alley , Werregarenstraat ( between Hoogpoort and Onderstraat ). Where the local graffiti artists are allowed to do their work. Although other around the town on buildings are of better quality and artistic value.
51.060447 3.713158 13 Rabot ( Old Gate ), Opgeëistenlaan 1 . 15th-century gate over the canal into the city. The canal used to connect the town to the north sea but now stops at this gate which is framed by 1960s housing blocks.

Museums [ edit ]

Museum of Fine Arts (MSK) , Fernand Scribedreef 1 ( a 10-minute walk from Gent Sint-Pieters Station ). Fine arts museum in Citadelpark. In this museum there are top works of classical visual art. Magritte, Jeroen Bosch, Rubens, van Dyck and James Ensor are just a few of the names that they find here. ( updated May 2023 )
51.036486 3.724121 21 University Museum ( Gents Universiteitsmuseum or GUM ), Ledeganckstraat 35 , ☏ +32 9 264 49 30 , [email protected] . M&Tu+Th&F 9:30-17:30, W closed. Sa&Su 10-18 . Known formerly as the Museum for History of Sciences, the University Museum has collections on archaeology, ethnography, morphology and other sciences. Full €8.50, 65+ €6, 19-26 €2, -18 free . ( updated Jun 2023 )

Do [ edit ]

De Bootjes van Gent ( Rederij Dewaele Canal Cruise ), Graslei or Korenlei , ☏ +32 9 223 88 53 . Apr-Oct: daily 10:00-18:00; Nov-Mar: Sa Su 11:00-16:00 . A cruise on the canals is a good way to view the city's highlights. The tour lasts approximately 40 minutes; longer tours are available. €7 for adults; €6.50 for seniors, students, and those under 26; €4 for children aged 3 to 12; free for children under 3 .
Jan Plezier Boottochten , Snepkaai or Ketelvest , ☏ +32 475 69 68 80 . Large parties can reserve themed cruises along the waterways of Ghent. Among the themes are the pancake cruise (pancake boat), the spareribs cruise, and the shrimp cruise. These cruises are most often held for large parties; individual tourists are better off choosing a tour of Dewaele or hiring a boat to steer yourself. pancake boat = €11.50 for adults; €9.50 for children aged under 6 to 12; free for children under 6 .
Football: KAA Gent play soccer in Pro League, Belgium's top tier. Their home ground Ghelamco Arena (capacity 20,100) is 3 km south of city centre.
51.053754 3.733971 1 Go Swimming at Badhuis Van Eyck , Vermeerplein ( bus# 17&18 ). see website . An 1880 Art Deco pool restored in 2001, it that retains individual changing rooms. The old entrance is still there but the modern entrance is at the opposite end of the building. Adults €6, -26 & +65 €3.30 . ( updated Jun 2023 )

Events [ edit ]

Film Fest Gent : , Leeuwstraat 40b , ☏ +32 9 242 80 60 , fax : +32 9 221 90 74 , [email protected] . Every year in October the film festival of Ghent takes over the lion's share of the city's screening rooms. During ten days in over 4 cinemas more than 100 movies and documentaries are screened. A bilingual schedule is provided and several films are shown with English subtitles. On the red carpet you could spot some high-profile celebrities, but the festival's most defining characteristic is its focus on film music. The World Soundtrack Awards (WSA) is an initiative of the festival and every year an impressive award ceremony is held in addition to one or more concerts with world-renowned composers. Additionally a number of events are held parallel to the movie screenings, such as talks, seminars, exhibitions, etc., a number of which are available in English. €70 for a 10-trip ticket (shareable between multiple persons), €40 for 5 trips; individual ticket prices vary from €8-13, depending on screening time and eligibility for reductions . (date needs fixing)
Gentse Feesten ( Ghent Festival ): . Gentse Feesten is a cultural music and theatre festival held throughout the city in July. It is one of the largest of its kind in Europe, attracting about 2 million visitors every year. The multitude of squares in the city centre are taken over by stages, each of them with their characteristic programming, e.g., popular music is played on the Sint-Baafsplein and Korenmarkt, some of the most entertaining cover bands can be found on the Groentenmarkt, dance initiations and world music in Baudelo parc. Young up-and-coming bands and arises get their chance in the intimate "mirror tent" in that same parc. The Beverhoutplein is taken over by French chanson. The roots of the festival are at the Sint-Jacobs square, where you can find Belgian and world artists, blues and rock music. Last-but-not-least in this non-exhaustive list is Vlasmarkt, where the party literally (i.e. not figuratively) never ends. It defies description and comparison and needs to be experienced to be understood. And for once these are not idle words. Party until long after the sun comes up and get a botram me uufflakke or sjoko (a sandwich with meat or chocolate paste). Besides this musical programme, the city's cultural houses and organisations open their doors. There are theatre and comedy shows, puppetry and workshops for kids and adults alike, exhibitions, guided tours and many random street acts such as mimickers, buskers, etc. Additionally a number of festivals within the festival are held, like Ghent Jazz for jazz music, 10 Days Off for electronic music and Boomtown for the most traditional music festival atmosphere, all three consistently having an impressive and international line-up. The festival starts on the Friday before July 21 (Belgium's national holiday) and lasts ten days. All of this: mostly free! . (date needs fixing)

Buy [ edit ]

51.05704 3.72836 1 Prondelmarkt bij Sint-Jacobs ( Sint-Jacobs flea market ), Beverhoutplein near Sint-Jacobs . F Sa 08:00-13:00, Su 08:00-14:00 . Antiques, second-hand records, books, and others can be found in the weekly flea markt at Sint-Jacobs. Prices can be high, but keen eyes can find a lot of gems.
51.051491 3.720333 2 Tweedehandsboekenmarkt ( Second-hand books market ), Ajuinlei . 9am to 1pm on Sundays . Inspired by the second-hand booksellers of Paris ( Bouquinistes ), every Sunday 09:00-13:00 you can stroll along the Ajuinlei to find a large assortment of second-hand books. The supply includes English books from the bookshop 'English Book Shop', also in the Ajuinlei (and also open at regular hours in the rest of the week), movie posters, art books, children's books and a smattering of various other niches.
51.057048 3.725566 3 Vrijdagmarkt ( Friday Market ). Vrijdagmarkt has been a fixture since the 13th century. It is the scene of a lively street markets on Friday (07:30-13:00) and Saturday (11:00-18:00), as well as the Sunday bird market (07:00-13:00).

51.05583 3.7225 4 Cuberdons sold by street vendors , Kortemunt, near Groentenmarkt . Every day in Korte Munt near Groentenmarkt, two street vendors are selling cuberdons or Gentse neuzen ( Ghent nose ). These candies are purple cone shaped gum Arabic sweets with a raspberry centre. If you stop, you will shop because these vendors are experts at promoting this Ghent specialty, so much so that they infamously got into a small fist-fight due to them competing for customers. One of the vendors also sells the pastries of the adjacent bakery 'Himschoot's'.

51.055625 3.722406 5 Tierenteyn-Verlent , Groentenmarkt 3 , ☏ +32 9 225 83 36 . Hot mustard shop.
51.036996 3.712613 6 Bookstore Limerick ( Boekhandel Limerick ), Kon. Elisabethlaan 142 , ☏ +32 92221757 . Bookstore with many Dutch books and some English. Lots of literature, psychology, and sociology books. ( updated Dec 2022 )

Eat [ edit ]

Ghent provides an excellent and affordable sample of Flemish cuisine, which in the eyes of the locals is one of Europe's finest as it combines French delicacy with northern European sturdiness. Try some local specialties like mussels, spare ribs or 'stoverij' (a kind of tender meat cooked for three hours in dark beer with a brown gravy) with Belgian fries.

Another dish from Ghent is the "Gentse waterzooi" (litt. "boiled water from Ghent"), which was the food for the poor originally, a stew of cheap fish (usually turbot) and vegetables. Now it is often made with chicken as well.

Belgian waffles are available from a number of street stalls around the town.

The restaurants on Korenmarkt and Vrijdagmarkt are a good deal, reasonably priced; the menus and 'menus of the day' at the Brasserie Borluut provide terrific value and this includes Gentse waterzooi.

The real upmarket restaurants are to be found in the 14th-century quarter called 'Patershol', near the Castle. There is also a big Turkish community in Ghent, centred around Sleepstraat a bit further north, which is home to numerous Turkish restaurants.

Budget [ edit ]

City centre [ edit ].

51.057697 3.724142 1 Soup Lounge , Zuivelbrugstraat 6 . 10:00-19:00 . Popular place to get a soup. ( updated Feb 2023 )
51.056079 3.727388 2 Frituur Bij Sint-Jacobs SYMPA , Walter De Buckplein 3 . ( updated Feb 2023 )
51.057008 3.72928 3 Vandevoorde / Olivier , Steendam 20 . ( updated Feb 2023 )
51.053513 3.721762 4 HFC Korenmarkt-Gent , Jan van Stopenberghestraat 5 . ( updated Feb 2023 )
51.05233 3.727527 5 Seli's Noodlebar , Limburgstraat 28 . ( updated Feb 2023 )
51.047442 3.727171 6 Tashun , Sint-Pietersnieuwstraat 120 . ( updated Feb 2023 )

Heuvelpoort [ edit ]

51.040538 3.725609 7 Belchicken , Overpoortstraat 1 . ( updated Feb 2023 )
51.039724 3.726611 8 Ichi Bites , Stalhof 19 . ( updated Feb 2023 )
51.040557 3.725477 9 Pizza overpoort , Overpoortstraat 36 . ( updated Feb 2023 )
51.037332 3.726762 10 Hashtag Falafel , Ottergemsesteenweg 1 . ( updated Feb 2023 )
51.041477 3.725506 11 Orientali Streetfood Bar , Sint-Pietersplein 29 . ( updated Feb 2023 )
51.040312 3.725486 12 Prima Donna , Overpoortstraat 46 . ( updated Feb 2023 )

Mid-range [ edit ]

51.056688 3.72084 13 Neptune ( Neptune ), Sint-Veerleplein 10 . Really pleasant and friendly little place immediately opposite Gravensteen castle. Husband & wife run (with two children running around for good measure). Neither food nor prices are as touristy as expected. Yummy local specialties, the Stoverij (beef stew) is particularly good. €30-40 . ( updated Feb 2023 )
51.056657 3.719835 14 Pampas , Burgstraat 1 , ☏ +32 9 233 68 66 . The place to go if you need a meat protein boost. €30-40 . ( updated Feb 2023 )
51.058591 3.720795 15 De Lieve , Sint-Margrietstraat 1 ( one block away from Gravensteen castle ), ☏ +32 9 223 29 47 . kitchen 11:00-23:00 . Formerly serving haute cuisine and having Michelin stars, this restaurant has stepped out of the culinary rat race and changed its focus to the 'classics'. A great place to try Flemish cuisine. It's part bar, so don't be surprised when you see the regulars coming in for a drink. ( updated Feb 2023 )
51.055364 3.719732 16 Osteria Delicati , Drabstraat 17 . ( updated Feb 2023 )
51.050349 3.733847 17 Le Piranha , Keizer Karelstraat 173 . ( updated Feb 2023 )

Splurge [ edit ]

There are many high-class restaurants in town.

51.058256 3.72225 18 Roots , Vrouwebroersstraat 5 . Belgian cuisine. ( updated Feb 2023 )
51.055255 3.720265 19 Allegro Moderato , Korenlei 7 . Traditional French ( updated Feb 2023 )

Vegetarian and vegan food [ edit ]

Information on vegetarian restaurants and shops is available from the campaign group EVA . Paper copies of their Guide to Veggie Ghent map is stocked by the Tourist Information Office on Veerle Plein.

51.038642 3.728162 20 De Appelier , Citadellaan 47 ( south of the historic centre, near St. Pieters Station ), ☏ +32 9 221 67 33 . A restaurant serving traditional vegetarian food (with vegan options on request). ( updated Feb 2023 )
51.055797 3.722672 21 Tasty World , Hoogpoort 1 , ☏ +32 9 225 74 07 . A fast-food bar selling vegetarian & vegan burgers, smoothies and juices, with two branches in Ghent. There are some tables for eating in. ( updated Feb 2023 )
51.036974 3.712116 22 Lekker Gec , Koningin Maria Hendrikaplein 6 . Vegetarian restaurant, close to the main train station. ( updated Feb 2023 )
51.047591 3.721661 23 Greenway Ghent , Nederkouter 42 . ( updated Feb 2023 )
51.052219 3.721128 24 Le Botaniste , Hoornstraat 13 ( Korenmarkt 1 4 ), ☏ +32 9 233 45 35 . 11.30-21.30 . Organic plant based food with some outdoor seating close to the Leie. ( updated Jul 2023 )

Drink [ edit ]

For authentic pubs, go to St. Veerleplein (the square in front of the Castle), the pubs around St. Jacob's church (especially during weekends), or the student area around Blandijnberg ( Mount Blandin ), especially in the proximity of the School of Arts and Philosophy, recognisable from afar by the 64-m-tall art deco Library Tower. Ghent is known for its many pubs and clubs and most have friendly staff. If you visit Ghent for its great nightlife, be sure to check out the bars listed in the "Off the beaten path" section.

Central Area: Castle-Korenmarkt-Graslei [ edit ]

51.056383 3.722382 1 Waterhuis aan de bierkant ( The Waterhouse on the beerside ), Groentenmarkt 9 ( near the Castle ), ☏ +32 9 225 06 80 , [email protected] . Boasts about 400 different kinds of Belgian beer, but is fairly touristy.
51.056031 3.722033 2 Het Galgenhuis ( the Gallows house ) ( near Waterhuis aan de bierkant ). A tiny tavern in a lean-to built on to the Gothic Butchers' Hall. A good selection of draught and bottled beers.
51.056278 3.722367 3 't Dreupelkot , Groentenmarkt 12 ( near the Castle ), ☏ +32 9 224 21 20 , [email protected] . 200 kinds of Belgian genever, a number of which are home made. Try the pepper genever if you are a tough guy or girl (be cautious!) Pol, the owner, is a friendly guy, although it might look the other way at first sight. Around €2 for a regular-sized genever.
51.058365 3.72387 4 Het Velootje ( The Little Bike ), Kalversteeg 2 ( between the Castle and Vrijdagmarkt ). Considered as the only tourist trap of Ghent, but even with this negative reputation it's worth a visit. The bearded owner Lieven calls his place a museum café with an authentic atmosphere by candlelight. This is all true but forgot to mention his collection of 200 antique bikes decorating the place. Drinks are steep. everything costs €4.50.
51.054827 3.721605 5 Damberd , Korenmarkt . Live jazz pub.
51.057339 3.730022 6 Gentse Stadsbrouwerij Gruut ( Gruut Brewery ), Rembert Dodoensdreef 1 , ☏ +32 9 269 02 69 . Brews beers with herbs for flavouring; a style commonly found throughout mediaeval Europe before the widespread cultivation of hops. ( updated Jul 2023 )

Sint-Jacobs & Vrijdagmarkt (Vlasmarkt-Beestenmarkt) [ edit ]

Charlatan , Vlasmarkt 6 . Popular club with many live concerts.
Surrounded by the bars Jos , Vlasmarkt 7 and Bar des Amis , Vlasmarkt 5.
de Dulle Griet , Vrijdagmarkt 50 . A traditional Flemish bar with a variety of 250 drinks (mostly Belgian beers). ( updated Oct 2018 )
More alternative bars are Kinky Star , Vlasmarkt 9, 't begin van 't einde , Vlasmarkt 14 and Video , Oude Beestenmarkt 7, all have regular live concerts.
Trollekelder , Bij Sint-Jacobs 17 . A cafe with a large selection of beer. ( updated Oct 2018 )

Student area [ edit ]

Overpoortstraat is a street packed with 34 pubs and bars where during the week (especially Wednesday and Thursday nights) all the students go crazy. Because on Thursday it is so crowded over there, dancing usually happens on the tables. Some notorious bars/clubs are Decadance (house, techno, drum&bass), Boom Boom (rock'n roll), Den Drummer (rock and metal), Twieoo (often new wave and holebi parties), Cuba Libre [dead link] (also known as the Puta Libre) (commercial, R&B, etc.), The Frontline underground concert venue featuring mainly metal, punk and hardcore concerts.
51.039733 3.726031 7 Porter House , Stalhof 1 ( near the Overpoortstraat ). The official pub for Erasmus students from over Europe.
51.046451 3.721123 8 Plan b , Verlorenkost 17 , ☏ +32 498 10 66 03 . Typical cosy local bar located in the center of Ghent. Nice view on the river.
51.041443 3.72861 9 De Geus van Gent , Kantienberg 9 , ☏ +32 9 220 78 25 , [email protected] . Monday to Friday: from 16:00, on Saturdays from 19:00. Closed on Sundays . 20 beers on top with very pleasant outdoor seating next to the river in summer.

Off the beaten path [ edit ]

Want to try some bars you won't find in any tourist guide? This is a great selection:

51.053 3.738093 10 Het Gouden Hoofd ( The Golden Head ), Slachthuisstraat 96 . If you find yourself on the other side of the canal, in the area known as "De Visserij", hungry and/or thirsty, be sure to check out this great place. It has moved to a former slaughterhouse. They have great dishes and the local beer on tap, Gulden Draak , is also great.

This is not the only great place in De Visserij . Check out the cosy De Kleine Kunst and jolly Fabula Rasa along the canal at the Ferdinand Lousbergkaai. Drinks and food are generally quite cheap in this area.

51.054372 3.716512 11 Hotsy Totsy , Hoogstraat 1 . Not far from the Graslei you can find this pearl. In a roaring twenties style this place breathes jazz. It's a good alternative for the sometimes crowded Hot Club De Gand. Prices are average to expensive, but the atmosphere is one of a kind.
51.055534 3.723231 12 Old Fashioned , Hoogpoort 1 . Ghent doesn't have a lack of bars, but finding a good cocktail bar might be tough. You might be glad with some other cocktail bars near the centre that have fruity drinks with cheap alcohol and not a drop of fresh juice, but some local connoisseurs consider Old Fashioned to be the only "Cocktail & Absinth bar" that is worth its name. They serve all the classics in a beautiful Medieval decor.
51.050869 3.70236 13 De Spinnekop , Einde were 44 ( nearest bus stop across across main road on next parallel street Beneluxpleinn #38, 39 ). M-Th 18:00- . If you have found this bar on your own you must have been really lost. The name of the street means "End of the world", and it feels like it. This was Ghent's best kept secret and has existed for many years, but now it's in the open. This bar is what people in Ghent call a "brown bar". It's a bit quirky but the owners are very friendly. The food is simple although the home made pesto pasta is amazing. Really cheap as well. It has the widely known beer, La Chouffe, on tap for around €3, food is €13 max and has great vegetarian alternatives. 90% chance that you will hear Bob Dylan or Tom Waits. In the summer you can sit outside in the garden. Food served till 22:00, F-Su closed. ( updated Jun 2023 )
51.065704 3.731921 14 Dok Brewing Co. , Hal 16, Dok Noord ( bus# 5&8 Dok Noord (shortcut down Denise de Weerdt), Heilig-Kerst 4 + 5 mins walk. ). Tu-Su 11-23 . Large out of town micro-brewery with food, located in a former transformer hall in the old dock area. Lots of outdoor seating. Very large selection of beers. ( updated Jul 2023 )

Sleep [ edit ]

51.059902 3.731343 1 Hostel 47 . Nice hospitality and service.
51.05784 3.719426 2 Youth Hostel De Draecke , Sint-Widostraat 11 , ☏ +32 9 233 70 50 , fax : +32 9 233 80 01 , [email protected] . This hostel is on a quiet street in the centre. Free breakfast and bedsheets are provided. A bar on the premises offers a range of Belgian beers. HI Hostel. ( updated May 2023 )
51.053949 3.719961 3 Hostel Uppelink , Sint-Michielsplein 21 , ☏ +32 9 279 44 77 , [email protected] . Check-in: 15:00 , check-out: 11:00 . A beautiful building, beautifully furnished and right in the middle of the most scenic part of the city. Breakfast included, bar open until 23:00. from €24pppn .
51.055732 3.720324 4 Brooderie , ☏ +32 9 225 06 23 . Primarily a cafe & bakery, but with three rooms located on Jan Breydelstraat opposite the Design Museum. Shared bathrooms and showers with the cafe below but a cheap way of getting a fine room in a superb location - delicious bread with breakfast. €50 for a single, €70-75 for a double.
51.060378 3.705669 5 Ecohostel Andromeda , Bargiekaai 35 , ☏ +32 486 67 80 33 . Low-energy, low-budget (beds start at €22) hostel-on-a-boat, 10 minutes walk from the centre. Creative, modern interior, surprisingly spacious and with better showers than many "land" hostels! Internet and breakfast available.
51.052815 3.72606 6 Hotel Ibis Centrum Kathedraal , Limburgstraat 2 , ☏ +32 9 293 90 00 .
A list of B&Bs can be found at: [1]

51.05662 3.739945 7 [dead link] Bed in Gent ( Bed in Ghent ), Lucas Munichstraat 18 ( a 5-minute walk from Gent Dampoort train station ), ☏ +32 495 94 49 17 , [email protected] . A roomy guest-house, with bright south-oriented bathrooms and a shared dining room with a dash of modern retro. €50 and up . ( updated Oct 2017 )
51.059035 3.739142 8 Ibis Budget , Koopvaardijlaan 29 . Budget hotel located near Dampoort Station. ( updated Jul 2023 )

Camping [ edit ]

51.0465 3.6807 9 [dead link] Camping Blaarmeersen , Campinglaan 16 ( 2 miles W of city centre ), ☏ +32 9 266 81 60 , [email protected] . Check-in: 14:00 (flexibility in practice) , check-out: 11:00 . More than 200 pitches. Shop (08:00-20:00). Cafe. Free Wi-Fi. 1 person, 1 tent, 1 bike €15.80 . ( updated Jul 2018 )
51.054434 3.723693 10 Novotel Gent Centrum , Goudenleeuwplein 5 , ☏ +32 9 224 22 30 .
51.035238 3.707671 11 Hotel Trianon , St-Denijslaan 203 , ☏ +32 9 220 48 40 , fax : +32 9 220 49 50 . Close to St. Pieter's train station. Prices start at €62 per night; breakfast is an additional €5. Each room has an attached bathroom. The luxury rooms are equipped with jacuzzi.
51.054602 3.726229 12 Best Western, Cour Saint-Georges , Botermarkt 2 , ☏ +32 9 224 24 24 , fax : +32 9 224 26 40 . 'The oldest Hotel in Europe, since 1228'. Right in the centre, near the towers. €125-200 .
51.054881 3.725432 13 NH Gent Belfort , Hoogpoort 63 , ☏ +32 9 233 33 31 . In the historical quarter of the city, offers 174 modern and comfortable rooms. Rooms from €109 .
51.055083 3.719936 14 Marriott , Korenlei 10 . Great position right in the middle of the old city centre with a view on the river Leie. Reasonable size and quality rooms, but only a few with view of the river. Friendly, helpful staff. Underground parking, at peak times should book ahead.
51.05472 3.715041 15 Pillows Grand Hotel Reylof , Hoogstraat 36 , ☏ +32 9 235 40 70 . Arguably the best and most luxurious hotel in Ghent. This is the 18th-century mansion which was the former home of Baron Reylof. The hotel retains its traditional architecture, but combines it with modern comforts. Contains a gym, spa and small pool. Hotel contains 157 bedrooms, most of which have terraces or balconies, a fine bar and a Michelin Star restaurant. Minibar contents are complimentary. €200 region for the night and breakfast.
51.058097 3.725458 16 Ghent River Hotel , Waaistraat 5 , ☏ +32 9 266 10 10 , [email protected] . Lovely location by the river.

Connect [ edit ]

As of June 2022, Ghent has 4G with Base / Telenet and Orange, and 5G with Proximus / Scarlet. Wifi is widely available in public places.

Go next [ edit ]

The Belgian train system is very efficient and the country not that large, so getting between major cities by rail is easy – in the day. A day trip to even multiple cities is easily doable. From Ghent, multiple railway lines radiates to major destinations in Flanders :

Bruges , famous for its canals and medieval heritage as well, is 20 minutes by train from Ghent
In the opposite direction, the often-overlooked town of Sint-Niklaas , with Belgium's largest market square, is also 20 minutes away
Just across the Dutch border, the very well-preserved historic fortified city Hulst attracts lots of day-trippers from Belgium. It was once part of Flanders, and its main street and city entrance gate still refer to Ghent.
Kortrijk , a charming and historically important provincial city in West Flanders is 30 minutes away
Antwerp , Brussels , Mechelen and the seaside resort of Ostend are around 40 minutes away
All the major cities in Wallonia are within 1.5 hours of train ride - either direct or with a quick change in Brussels
The French city of Lille is an hour away by direct train
Sint-Martens-Latem is very near and offers a great half-day trip to those who are interested in arts.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites
UNESCO tag to be fixed
UNESCO Creative Cities
Has custom banner
Has map markers
Articles with dead external links
Has mapframe
Maps with non-default size
See listing with no coordinates
Do listing with no coordinates
Articles with bad date events
Drink listing with no coordinates
Articles needing translation from Dutch
Usable cities
Usable articles
City articles
Has Geo parameter
East Flanders
All destination articles
Pages with maps

15 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Ghent

Written by Jess Lee Updated Dec 27, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The old city of Ghent (in Flemish Gent; in French Gand) is a picturesque muddle of alleyways rimmed by quaint steeple-roofed buildings running along pretty canals. Along with Bruges , Ghent is Belgium's star architectural tourist attraction, but unlike Bruges, it comes without the tour bus hordes.

A walk through town on a summer's evening, when most of the important buildings are illuminated, is one of the best sightseeing experiences, as is a canal boat ride down the many branches of the Scheldt and Leie Canals that intersect the city.

For history-lovers and architecture fans, Ghent is one of the top places to visit in Belgium, plus its lack of tourists makes it a great place to get to grips with modern local Flemish culture.

Discover how to plan your time with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Ghent.

1. Cathedral of St. Bavo (Sint-Baafskathedraal)

2. the fortress of gravensteen, 3. climb to the top of the belfry (het belfort), 4. cruise ghent's canals, 5. stroll the neighborhood of graslei, 6. explore korenmarkt, 7. saint michael's church and sint-michielsbrug, 8. discover the korenlei canal area, 9. town hall (stadhuis), 10. museum of fine art (museum voor schone kunsten), 11. ghent city museum (stam), 12. visit the old market area, 13. the architecture of vismarkt and kraanlei, 14. walk through the ruins of sint-baafsabdij, 15. museum voor volkskunde, where to stay in ghent for sightseeing.

On the eastern side of Sint-Baafsplein stands the Cathedral of St. Bavo, a majestic building of brick and granite with a Romanesque crypt of its predecessor, Sint-Jans church. Charles V gave the cathedral its present name after he destroyed the old one to build a fortress.

The High Gothic cathedral choir dates from the 13th century, while the late Gothic tower and the main nave were built during the 15th and 16th centuries.

The light interior of the cathedral is richly decorated with some unique paintings. These include The Conversion of St. Baaf by Peter Paul Rubens (1624) and Christ among the Doctors by Frans Pourbus (1571).

The most famous artwork here though is The Altar of Ghent, also known as The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb , renowned as by far the greatest masterpiece of old Flemish painting.

Below the main church, the extensive crypt contains numerous tombs of bishops and a rich treasury. The outstanding Calvary triptych of 1464 by Joos van Wassenhove (Justus van Gent) is also shown in one of the chapels.

Address: Sint-Baafsplein, Central Ghent

Official site: https://www.sintbaafskathedraal.be/en/

Gravensteen is one of the strongest moated fortresses in Western Europe, surrounded by the River Lieve. It was built between 1180 and 1200 on the orders of Philip of Alsace, the former count of Flanders, on the foundation of an earlier 9th-century structure and was created in the style of Syrian crusader castles. Today, it remains a unique example of the European medieval art of fortification.

In the 14th-century, it ceased to have a military function and was used by the counts for administration of the land. In 1800, it came into private ownership and was converted into a cotton mill and flats for the workers.

Most of the castle's area, including the ramparts, can be toured by visitors. In front of the castle extends the ancient Sint-Veerleplein, possibly the oldest square in Ghent, although the neighboring facades are of 17th-century origin at the earliest. This square was a marketplace but also the site of executions and burnings of the victims of the Inquisition

Address: Sint-Veerleplein 11, Ghent

On the west side of Sint-Baafsplein stands the 91-meter-high belfry, symbol of the city's independence, where the charters of the privileges of Ghent were kept.

The tower was begun about 1300 and by 1338, it was mainly completed. The present-day spire was restored to its original 14th-century form at the beginning of this century and replaced the wooden bell tower of 1380.

It is crowned by a gilded copper dragon, which was first installed in 1377. Today, it is a replica as are the four armed figures at the corners of the platform. Only one of the originals of these survives and can be seen on the ground floor.

You can climb (or take the elevator from the 1st floor) to the top of the tower for great views over the central old town district of Ghent.

The splendid Cloth Hall directly adjoins the belfry. This building (1426-1441) by Simon van Assche was the meeting place of the wool and cloth traders and was converted into a prison in the 18th century. Today, it has a café-restaurant, which is popular with tourists.

Official site: https://www.belfortgent.be

Kayaks cruising on a canal past the Gravensteen in Ghent

Ghent's canals are an attraction by themselves and provide the most relaxing sightseeing experience in the city.

There are various ways to enjoy Ghent from the canals, ranging from regular public boat tours and private customizable cruises in a traditional tow-barge to kayak rental.

Several different companies run regular public cruise departures from docks in the central city. The typical boat tour lasts 40 minutes and cruises past all of Ghent's major sights, including the belfry and Gravensteen, as well as the canal-side guildhall architecture along the Leie canal.

On the public tours, you can turn up and buy your ticket before you board, but if you want to reserve your ticket, this 40-minute guided boat trip in Ghent , departs from the Graslei port and plies the Leie canal route past all the major sites, including Gravensteen.

Some of Belgium's finest guild houses are along the Graslei Canal. This is an excellent place for a stroll for anyone with more than a passing interest in architecture.

Check out the adjoining Gildehuis der Vrije Schippers (House of the Free Boatmen), built in 1531 in the Brabant Gothic style, and Gildehuis der Graanmeters (House of the Grain Weighers), with its stepped gable that dates from 1698.

Further along, you'll see Tolhuisje (Customs House), a Flemish Renaissance building of 1682, which stands next to the Romanesque Spijker or Koornstapelhuis (around 1200).

The Gildehuis der Metselaars (House of the Masons) from 1527 in Brabant Gothic style completes this unique row of guild houses.

Saint Nicholas's Church in Korenmarkt, Ghent

Ghent's Korenmarkt (Wheat Market) is a historic square that is home to many of the old Guild Houses (Gindenhuis) positioned along the Leie Canal. This was once an important center of trade, and today, it is a lively area known for its lovely architecture and numerous restaurants and cafés.

Each year in late July, the Korenmarkt is the center of a 10-day festival, Gense Fieste, which combines plenty of music, theater, and other entertainment, as well as lots of food stalls.

Bordering the southern side of the Korenmarkt, St. Nicholas Church is one of Ghent's most iconic landmarks. Its exterior is constructed of Tournai bluestone in the Scheldt Gothic style, dating back to the 13th century. Of note are its imposing central tower and an organ made by Aristide Cavaillé-Coll.

Sint-Michielsbrug (Saint Michael's Bridge)

Saint Michael's Church is located on the western shore of the Leie and is known for its absolute grandeur, a massive Gothic church constructed of Belgian sandstone. The pulpit, altar, and many other parts of the interior are in the Neo-Gothic style, while other styles are represented as well, including an early 17th-century Baroque confessional.

Among the church's treasures are several 18th-century statues; paintings by Baroque artists like van Dyck; and the Relic of Doorn, which was a gift from Mary Queen of Scots.

Next to the church is Sint-Michielsbrug (Saint Michael's Bridge), a beautiful stone-arch bridge known for its spectacular views of the skyline. From here, you can see all three of Ghent's iconic towers, making this an excellent spot for photography. Visit in the evening for a particularly nice view of the city's landmarks illuminated.

Address: Sint-Michielsplein 4, 9000 Ghent

The Sint-Michielsbrug leads down to the Korenlei Canal, itself lined by splendid facades and offering the best view of the even finer houses on the opposite bank of the Graslei.

While wandering here, take note of the following houses: No. 15 is the site of the former Hof van Gruuthuse, (House of Duke Egmont), which dates from 1352 and is now replaced by a building with a Neoclassical facade that also encompasses No. 17-19, the Hotel de Ghellinck.

No. 7 along the Korenlei is the Gildehuis der Onvrije Schippers (House of the Tied Boatmen), which is a Baroque building dating from 1739.

Also, pay attention to the beautiful façade of No. 24, Lintworm en Krocht. This was a Romanesque château from the 12th century that was rebuilt at the beginning of the 20th century.

Address: Korenlei, central Ghent

Built over a long period of time, Ghent's magnificent town hall combines a variety of architectural styles.

On the oldest parts of the building on the Hoogpoort, completed in the style of Bruges City Hall in 1482 and containing the council chambers, the architects Rombout Keldermans and Dominic de Waghemakere built a new wing in the finest late Gothic form, richly decorated with statues.

However, building work on this part, which is best seen from the corner of Hoogpoort and Belfortstraat, was suspended because of religious disputes in 1539.

Only a quarter of the original plan was realized and only the Peace Hall (Pacificatiezaal; actually the courtroom for the Keure, the protectors of the town constitution) and the Marriage Chapel, both 1535, were built.

Work only resumed at the end of the 16th century, so that the wing facing the Botermarkt is in Renaissance style as is the Throne Room on the upper floor.

Address: Botermarkt, Central Ghent

The main emphasis of the collection here is painting covering the 15th to 20th centuries. The central hall adjoining the entrance hall has eight fine Brussels wall tapestries: three with motifs from the story of Darius (17th century) and five with the theme "Triumph of the Gods" (1717).

Left of this hall are the Old Masters. Prominent are two works by Hieronymus Bosch in Room B: Bearing of the Cross and St. Hieronymus .

To the right of the Tapestry Room are paintings of the 19th and 20th centuries, especially by Belgian artists.

The museum also hosts a wide variety of traveling exhibits on loan from other world-class fine arts museums.

Address: Fernand Scribedreef 1, Liemaeckereplein, Ghent

Official site: https://www.mskgent.be/en

Based in the brick buildings of the Cistercian Abbey of Bijloke, the Museum of Ghent is one of the richest in Belgium and showcases a remarkable collection that traces the heritage and culture of the city in a unique historical setting.

The numerous rooms chronologically tell the story of Ghent with exhibits including jewelry, weapons, textiles, books, paintings, religious icons, and ceramics all enhanced by state-of-the-art multimedia displays.

The museum's outstanding centerpoint is the 14th-century refectory with an exceptional brick gable.

The interior walls are painted with frescoes, among which is a 10-meter-long painting of the Last Supper.

As well as the permanent collection, the museum hosts a series of temporary exhibits throughout the year that are housed in the neighboring monastery building.

Address: Godshuizenlaan 2

Official site: https://stamgent.be/en

The Old Market (Groentenmarkt) began life as a fish market and then in the 18th-century began functioning mainly as a vegetable market. In the medieval era, Ghent's pillory stood here.

On the west side of the market area is the long Groot Vleeshuis, a medieval covered meat market with a guild house, chapel, and numerous gables in the roof. The building originated in 1406-1410 and was restored in 1912.

At the south end of the Vleeshuis is the Penshuizeken (entrails cottage) where the poor were given the entrails of slaughtered animals.

Today, the Vleeshuis building is a rather fine restaurant, but even if you're not hungry, you can walk through to view the interior.

Address: Groentenmarkt, Hoogpoort, central Ghent

The superb Baroque building at Sint-Veerleplein No. 5 is the old fish market, built in 1689 according to plans by Artus Quellin.

The gateway depicts Neptune and allegorical representations of the Scheldt (male) and Leie (female).

To the northeast, the Kraanlei Canal adjoins Sint-Veerleplein, all lined with elegant houses.

Immediately on the left is No. 1, the Craenenburgh, then the row of houses De Lelye (No. 3-11), built around 1500 in Brabant Gothic style. No. 13, In den Bleikenmarkt is a former fish shop.

Farther along the Kraanlei is house No. 75, De Klok, dating from the 17th century, with a spiral staircase and decorated with numerous allegorical reliefs. No 77., De Zeven Werken van Barmhartigheid, and No. 79, Het Vliegend Hert , are Baroque 17th-century town houses, decorated with exquisite reliefs

Address: Kraanlei, central Ghent

In the east part of the city, across the Slachthuisbrug over the Leie Canal, are the ruins of Sint-Baafsabdij, an abbey founded in 630 by St. Amandus and rebuilt after being destroyed by the Normans in the 10th century.

A gallery of the late Gothic cloisters, the octagonal lavatorium, and parts of the chapter house and the refectory still remain from the original abbey.

The refectory, with its beautiful 12th-century Romanesque frescoes, is home to the Museum voor Stenen Voorwerpen (Museum for Stone Cutting and Sculpture) and contains an extraordinary collection of medieval tombstones, Ghent sculpture, and architectural artefacts from the 12th to the 18th centuries as well as mosaics.

Address: Godshuizenlaan 2, Ghent

Immaculately restored in 1962, this former children's hospital - founded in 1363 - is one of Belgium's last remaining Godshuizen. These houses were founded by well-off families for the needy.

In a picturesque courtyard are 18 typical Flemish cottages, all interconnected and now housing the extremely comprehensive Museum voor Volkskunde, which with its notable collection of equipment, documents, and everyday objects provides a vivid picture of Flemish folk life around 1900.

Of particular interest are the restored workshops and living rooms, a dining room, a barber's shop, a cobbler's workshop, an apothecary's shop, a confectioner's bakery, and a candlestick maker's workshop.

Address: Kraanlei 65, Ghent

To see all the famous sights of Ghent and soak up its picturesque scenery, the best place to stay is in the compact and easily walkable city center–preferably within the historic center. Most of the top attractions, such as the Cathedral of St. Bavo and the grand fortress of Gravensteen, lie within a short stroll of each other. Here are some highly rated hotels in this convenient location:

Luxury Hotels:

In the heart of the city, overlooking the Korenlei and Graslei Canals, the Marriott Ghent Hotel offers large, comfortable rooms with plush beds.
Steps from Ghent's historic center, Pillows Grand Hotel Reylof blends bold contemporary accents with Empire-style elegance and has a wellness center with a pool, spa, and fitness room. The hotel also offers long-stay apartments.
Around the corner from the Gravensteen Castle, the boutique Hotel Harmony sits on a picturesque canal in the old town and is known for its helpful staff and lovely canal views.

Mid-Range Hotels:

In the historic center, opposite the town hall, the stylish NH Gent Belfort is less than five minutes on foot from the cathedral, castle, and belfry, as is the nearby, pet-friendly Novotel Gent Centrum , with a fitness room and sauna, outdoor pool, and children's play areas.
Perfect for families and extended stays, the good-value Aparthotel Castelnou is about a 15-minute walk from the historic center. All the apartments come with kitchenettes, and breakfast is included in the rates.

Budget Hotels:

On a quiet street, a 10-minute stroll from the cathedral, the boutique Hotel Onderbergen offers clean, stylish rooms, and some accommodate families.
If you like old-world elegance on a budget, Erasmus is in a beautiful 16th-century stone building with steep stairs, a few minutes on foot from the historic center. The free breakfast is in an evocative room adorned with oil paintings and antiques.
Meters from the cathedral, Ibis Gent Centrum St-Baafs Kathedraal offers compact but comfortable rooms for a good-value price.

More on Belgium

Travel Guide to Ghent, Belgium

Ra's Travel Guide to Ghent

A small city in Belgium, home to the Ghent Nose candy; a complete travel guide to Ghent.

Enchanting view in Gent, Belgium, with ornate medieval architecture and bustling activity, capturing the essence of Belgian heritage and culture; travel guide to Ghent

A short drive away from Brussels is Ghent, a picturesque city with architecture that will make you think you accidentally ended up in France. Ghent is Flander’s biggest university city and has gained the nickname of Europe’s vegetarian capital as more chefs and restaurants begin experimenting with vegetarian options. Explore the massive churches and cathedrals, the many museums, walk along the canals and rivers while admiring the architecture, and pay a visit to the famous castle. Visit all this and more with this complete travel guide to Ghent.

Getting to Ghent, Belgium: Transportation Options and Travel Tips

Ghent is easily accessible from both within Belgium and beyond, boasting excellent connectivity by bus, car, train, and even boat. While Ghent lacks its own airport, you can conveniently fly into Brussels at Brussels Airport or Brussels South Charleroi Airport before selecting one of the other transportation options outlined in this article.

The most popular modes of international and domestic travel to Ghent are by bus or train. Ghent features two railway stations, Gent-Sint-Pieters and Gent-Dampoort, with Gent-Sint-Pieters serving as a major hub for trains across Belgium. For travelers arriving via the European high-speed train network, transfers to Ghent are available at stations such as Bruxelles-Midi, Antwerp, or Lille (France). Additionally, many international bus companies offer direct services to Ghent year-round, making it a convenient option for day trips, often combined with excursions to nearby cities like Bruges, complete with guided tours.

Ghent is also easily reachable by car, whether you're driving your own vehicle or renting one. Situated just 45 minutes from Brussels and not much further from Bruges, Ghent offers ample parking options, including free parking on the city outskirts or paid parking in numerous car parks. However, it's essential to note that if you're driving your own car into Ghent, foreign license plates must be registered with Belgium and adhere to the criteria of the low emission zone.

Another unique option is traveling to Ghent by boat, given the city's extensive network of rivers and canals, along with more than five available marinas for docking.

For efficient route planning, cost evaluation, and consideration of various transportation methods, I often rely on Rome2rio. This invaluable tool provides comprehensive information, offering insights into possible route combinations and suggestions for strategic stops along the way, ensuring a tailored and well-informed travel experience. Link to Rome2rio

Where to Stay in Ghent, Belgium?

Ghent is a small city that attracts university students, locals, and tourists alike. With visitors year-round, a variety of accommodations are available, including hotels, hostels, and Airbnbs, with some offering long-term stay options. To facilitate your location selection process, I've outlined the main neighborhoods below:

Patershol: Centrally located and ideal for first-time visitors.
Sint-Pietersnieuwstraat: Perfect for those seeking vibrant nightlife.
Prinsenhof: Offers a quiet, central location.
Sint-Amandsberg: Best suited for families.

During my visit to Ghent, I explored the city on a day trip from Brussels. Depending on your travel preferences and objectives, it's feasible to experience Ghent in a day, although you could easily extend your stay for a relaxing weekend getaway, especially if you aim to immerse yourself in the city's picturesque charm.

Guides to Belgium

Best Places to Visit in Belgium

Authentic Belgian Souvenirs

Getting Around Ghent, Belgium

There are several car rental agencies and car hire services available in Ghent. However, it is important to note that a car is not necessary for getting around Ghent, especially considering the city center is car-free. Having a car may prove beneficial if you plan to explore more remote areas of Belgium with limited public transportation. Remember, if you’re bringing your own car, it must comply with license plate registration and low emission rules.

Navigate the city effortlessly with Ghent's extensive network of buses and trams, operating from early morning until late evening. Contactless payment is accepted onboard for unlimited public transport within an hour. For visitors staying longer than two days, I recommend purchasing the CityCard to save money, available from ticket shops or machines at the stops.

Experience Ghent from a unique perspective by enjoying a boat ride along its rivers and canals. Various companies offer themed and guided boat tours, allowing you to admire the city's beauty from the water.

Uber and Lyft are available in Ghent, alongside local taxi services. Taxis typically congregate near Gent-Sint-Pieters and Gent-Dampoort train stations, as well as other major tourist points across the city. Fare prices vary based on time of day and day of the week, but for the best rates, I recommend pre-booking a cab rather than hailing one on the street. Always confirm the price before entering the cab and ensure the meter is activated.

Bike rentals are available from companies or directly from Gent-Sint-Pieters and Gent-Dampoort railway stations. If you purchase the CityCard Ghent, a one-day pass for bicycle rental is included.

Ghent boasts numerous pedestrian zones, including Europe’s largest low-pedestrian zone, making walking the ideal way to explore the city. With major attractions situated close to each other in the city center and the presence of locals and visitors walking throughout the day and into the evening, you'll feel safe and immersed in the city's charm.

What to Do in Ghent, Belgium?

Historical walking tour.

Begin your exploration of Ghent with a walking tour, offering an excellent opportunity to familiarize yourself with the city, visit key attractions, and delve into its rich history. While various companies provide guided tours, I highly recommend opting for a free walking tour ( click here ), where you can determine the price based on your satisfaction with the experience. Typically led by enthusiastic locals, these tours offer not only insightful commentary but also a chance to connect with fellow travelers, making them ideal for solo adventurers.

St. Bavo's Cathedral

Step inside this magnificent cathedral to marvel at the renowned Ghent Altarpiece, also known as "The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb." Created by the Van Eyck brothers in 1432, this masterpiece consists of 18 panels and is celebrated globally as one of the most significant works of art. Notably, one of its panels, the "Just Judges," was stolen in 1934 and remains missing to this day.

Gravensteen Castle

Discover the allure of "The Castle of the Counts," a medieval fortress dating back to the 12th century. Remarkably preserved, it boasts a moat and a well-maintained defense system, offering visitors a glimpse into the past. Within its walls, explore various museums and exhibitions, including the Torture Museum, Arms Museum, and Museum of Judicial Objects, while keeping an eye out for the castle's frequent events and festivities.

Ghent Belfry

A UNESCO World Heritage Site erected in the 14th century, the Ghent Belfry served as a watchtower, housing vigilant watchmen tasked with alerting the city to fires or impending danger. Today, visitors can ascend the bell tower for panoramic views of the city and explore the adjacent Cloth Hall, steeped in history and architectural splendor.

St. Nicholas' Church

Admire the striking beauty of this 13th-century church, characterized by its Tournai blue hue and Scheldt Gothic style. As one of the earliest parish churches in the Low Countries, it offers a glimpse into Ghent's storied past. Marvel at its exquisite interior, featuring a masterful altar by Nicolas De Liemaecker and an impressive organ crafted by Aristide Cavaillé-Coll.

Graffiti Alley

Hidden amidst the city streets lies Graffiti Alley, a captivating display of street art encompassing a myriad of styles and collaborations. While Ghent boasts numerous murals, this elongated alley serves as a focal point for artistic expression. Wander through its vibrant lanes, capturing the essence of this captivating urban art gallery.

St. Peter's Abbey

Founded by St. Amand in the 7th century, St. Peter’s Abbey holds a rich history intertwined with Ghent's origins. Explore its hallowed halls, exhibitions, vineyard, and garden, immersing yourself in centuries of cultural heritage. Don't miss the authentic dining wing, a relic from the Middle Ages, offering a glimpse into medieval life.

Museum of Fine Arts

Art enthusiasts will delight in the Museum of Fine Arts, Ghent's oldest art repository. Housing a diverse collection ranging from Hieronymus Bosch to Rubens and Magritte, the museum showcases both classical and modern artworks. Trace Ghent's artistic evolution, from the tumultuous events of the 18th century to its vibrant contemporary art scene.

Castle of Gerald the Devil

The building has seen a lot of different uses throughout the century as a knights’ residence, an arsenal, a monastery, a school, a madhouse for the mentally ill, and a bishop’s seminary. Another part of the building was used as a prison for a part of the time. The building was built in the 13th century and was named after the knight Geeraard Vilain whose nickname was “Geerard the Devil.” The nickname was not from some spooky tale but from his dark complexion and hair color.

Gentbrugse Meersen

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in the tranquility of Gentbrugse Meersen, a sprawling park and nature reserve still in development. Offering a range of recreational activities, from sports fields to picnic areas and hiking trails, it provides a serene retreat for visitors of all ages.

Ghent captivates visitors with its rich history, picturesque architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Whether you're exploring its medieval landmarks, admiring renowned artworks, or savoring the local cuisine, Ghent offers a delightful blend of past and present. With this comprehensive travel guide to Ghent, you're equipped to uncover the city's hidden gems and create unforgettable memories in this charming Belgian destination.

Make sure to visit the Ghent altarpiece painted by brothers Hubert and Jan van Eyck.

My Playlist for Ghent, Belgium

"Les Prénoms de Paris" by Joe Dassin

"Quand Madelon" by Yves Montand

"Mambo Italiano" by Renato Carosone

"La Mer" by Charles Trenet

"L'hymne à l'amour" by Édith Piaf

Authentic Egyptian Souvenirs: Top 10 to Buy in Egypt

A trip to Egypt is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so you’re most likely leaving room in the suitcase…

Captivating image of Egypt showcasing the ancient wonders of Egypt's iconic landmarks and rich cultural heritage; best places to visit in Egypt

Best Places to Visit in Egypt: Top 5

Egypt is a bucket list adventure filled with historical treasures and insight into ancient civilizations. From crystal…

Enchanting view in Brussels, Belgium, with ornate medieval architecture and bustling activity, capturing the essence of Belgian heritage and culture; best places for fries in Brussels

Best Places for Fries in Brussels- Top 10

Hungry and in Brussels? Look no further! Here are the top 10 best places for fries in…

GHENT TRAVEL GUIDE

Welcome to our travel guide to Ghent page!

Ghent is a wonderful city that we both adore. We’ve been there tons of times and still keep discovering new spots and hidden gems. Follow along for the best travel information about Ghent, Belgium!

Gravensteen Castle seen from a boat tour.

Is Gravensteen Castle Worth Visiting in 2024?

Is Ghent worth visiting? 16 Reasons Why You Should Visit Ghent in 2024

How to Get from Brussels to Ghent & Vice Versa (2024)

night view of the town near the Scheldt river with a boat in Ghent to Antwerp

From Ghent to Antwerp and vice versa (2024)

25 Things to Do in Ghent: Discovering the Best of Ghent

Top 4 Budget Friendly Hostels in Ghent

International edition
Australia edition
Europe edition

A local’s guide to Ghent, Belgium: artisanal beer, bargain vintage and docklands clubbing

This Flemish city sparkles with creative cuisine, markets, cutting-edge clubs – and beer, says brewery founder Dimitri Messiaen

Ghent is blessed with an exciting eating-out scene, with unpretentious, creative young chefs favouring local, seasonal ingredients with plenty of vegan and vegetarian options. I recommend Aroy Aroy, the latest venture of chef Jason Blanckaert, who has abandoned his Michelin stars and just cooks what he likes. Right now he’s serving Thai cuisine that I’d say is as authentic as many Thai restaurants, despite Aroy Aroy’s chefs being Flemish.

I also really like Elders , a new place just outside the centre that serves simple but delicious dishes such as a chilled bouillon of cucumber and elder blossom, or barbecued oysters with rhubarb. It’s perfect for a lazy Sunday brunch.

And Raaf, which is about to open, is a first venture for young chefs who will be baking their own bread, grilling and barbecuing meat, fish and lots of veggies in a beautifully converted butcher’s meat storeroom. And head to the organic Lousberg market, where dairy cooperative het Hinkelspel sells a fabulous selection of local cheeses.

Inspiration

Running a brewery takes up most of my life, but Sundays are sacred, and I have a ritual that begins with a walk in the centre of Ghent, at StJacob’s flea market, where I can enjoy the simple pleasure of buying bargain vintage jackets for as little as €5. Then it is on to the secondhand books market at Ajuinlei, and the flower market on Kouter square. By then, my wife and family will have joined me for oysters and bubbly at the market’s De Blauwe Kiosk .

I recommend visitors see the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb (the Ghent Altarpiece) painting by the brothers Hubert and Jan Van Eyck in the cathedral. Yes there will be long queues, but it is unforgettable – and there is now a 3D experience as well as the masterpiece itself.

Neighbourhood

We opened our brewery four years ago in the Dok Noord quarter, and it has developed into a neighbourhood with a similar vibe to the former docklands in London or New York. It’s only a 10-minute walk from the medieval centre of Ghent but it feels like a different world. The 19th-century industrial warehouses lining the canal have been transformed into a mix of creative hubs, food and drink venues and sustainable housing that is attracting young locals.

Right on the canal, Eat This is an experimental exhibition and performance space, while nearby Bar Bricolage is an outdoor bar hosting concerts. Kids can play in the newly opened Captain Zeppos maritime-themed park. Don’t imagine this area to be anything like Bruges or Antwerp – as we always say here: “if it is too beautiful then it is not Ghent”.

Green space

I have two favourite green spaces. Appelbrugparkje is a minuscule one in the historical heart of Ghent that even many locals have never heard of. It is hidden away behind the Castle of the Counts, you sit quietly in a leafy oasis, with picturesque views over the Lys River and the medieval Butchers’ Hall.

Keizerpark, on the River Scheldt, is very different; a big open park beloved by the Gantois where you can sit down for a picnic and rent a boat.

For anyone who loves techno and house, Kompass is a world-class club, a typical family-run Ghent affair, but one that attracts top DJs. Housed in an old factory with low ceilings, the atmosphere is electric. And Charlatan is a local legend that never disappoints, the best club in town for more than 30 years. There’s even a movie about it , Belgica . At least once a month all the team head to Charlatan after the brewery shuts.

For live music, Bar Lume is the place to catch young Belgian bands, while Funke is a new venue that spreads over three floors, a culture hub hosting concerts, DJ sets and art spaces for exhibitions and installations.

The De Draecke (dorm beds from €19, double rooms €70,) is a basic but hip hostel right in the centre of town offering dormitory accommodation or private rooms.

Ghent holidays
A local's guide
Belgium holidays
Europe holidays
Food and drink
City breaks
Cultural trips
Short breaks

Most viewed

Ghent travel guide

Ghent tourism | ghent guide, you're going to love ghent.

One of Belgium's medieval jewels, Ghent is compact and full of interesting museums and stunning architecture. On top of that, it's also a wonderful place to dine, listen to music, and just relax. What's more surprising is how it remains relatively undiscovered.

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Ghent

1. medieval artistic masterpieces.

The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb by the Van Eyck brothers is one of the greatest religious paintings of the late medieval era and not to be missed, but Ghent's churches conceal plenty of other treasures as well.

2. Excellent Museums

From textile production and psychiatry to furniture design and Ghent itself, the city has plenty of engaging museums.

3. Exceptional Dining Options

With brasseries like Pakhuis, buzzing coffee bars like Belle Histoire, and gourmet seafood specialists like Georges, Ghent has every gastronomic base covered.

4. Bars for Evening Entertainment

If you love Belgian beer, Ghent is the place to go. Try local brews from the Gruut Brewery or wade through massive beer lists at riverside bars.

5. The Spectacular Gravensteen Castle

Ghent's fairytale castle is beautifully preserved and also a superb place to take the kids, hosting plenty of events throughout the year.

What to do in Ghent

1. a fairytale flemish fortress.

Ghent's castle was first erected in the 1180s by a crusader returning from the Holy Land, meaning that it bears an unusual resemblance to similar fortresses in Syria. Never seriously called into action, it occupies a breathtakingly scenic spot on a bend in the River Lieve, and also houses a variety of exhibits that are well worth exploring. The coats of armor, maces, and crossbows will appeal to weapons fans, but there are cuddlier attractions too, such as seasonal costume events which recreate medieval life.

2. Sacred Peace And Timeless Masterpieces

Dedicated to St Bavo, Sint-Baafskathedraal is a soaring masterwork of Gothic architecture which dominates the city center. But it's more than just a beautiful religious building. The interior almost qualifies as an art gallery, with works by Peter Paul Reubens and Lucas de Heere, as well as a dazzling altarpiece by Jan Van Eyck. If you are into Flemish art, it's an unmissable display, but anyone can marvel at the serenity and grace of this sacred spot.

3. A Magical Shopping Experience

The city's Old Market has been in business as a fish, meat, and vegetable mart since the 1400s. Start with a look at the Groot Vleeshuis, which has been the main meat market for 600 years, then peek into the Penshuizeken, where poorer residents once begged for offal that was going spare. After that, it's time to shop around for local product (the mustard is a particular delicacy), as well as platters of cheese and Flemish charcuterie, which you can munch with a baguette or two beside the canal.

4. An Absorbing Historical Adventure

Also known as STAM, the Museum of Ghent is around a mile south of the old city center, and is the best place to get an idea of how the beautiful city around you came into being. Telling the story of Ghent from its earliest days, the site includes the ruins of the 14th century Bijloke Abbey, as well as an ultra-modern new museum building which covers every era of the city's existence. Highlights include lavish maps from the 16th century, gorgeous tapestries, lovingly recreated scale models, and some outlandish carnival masks that will make you jump.

5. Gorgeous Gables And Vibrant Street Life

Graslei is probably Ghent's most picturesque historic neighborhood, so get ready to take a few snaps as you wander or cycle around its streets and paths. Located alongside the canal of the same name, it is centered around a series of extraordinary "guild houses" that were funded by the town's merchants in the Middle Ages, and feature ornate, stepped gables that are typically Flemish. For years, Graslei was the city's main port, but now it's become a social center, with cafes and bars lining the old quay, and buzzing crowds of locals enjoying the scenery. There's no better place for a Belgian beer and some moules frites.

Activities & attractions in Ghent

Other activities

Where to Eat in Ghent

Ghent has a wealth of restaurants. Some local favorites include burger specialists Paul's Boutique, gourmet brasseries like De Rave, and Flemish eateries like Publiek. Expect a meal to cost between EUR15 and EUR40.

When to visit Ghent

Most tourists visit Ghent around July and August, but there's no reason to discount September or May to June, when the crowds will be thinner and the weather should be fine.

How to Get to Ghent

Visitors from North America can fly into Brussels Airport, then take a train, taxi, or car rental to Ghent, reaching the city in around 30 minutes.

Most trains stop at Gent-Sint-Pieters in the south of the city. From there, take a 21 or 22 tram to the city center.

From Brussels, take the E40. From Antwerp, take the E17, which also runs from Lille to the southwest.

Ghent is well connected to other European cities via Eurolines and Megabus services.

Airports near Ghent

Airlines serving ghent, where to stay in ghent.

Some popular and comfortable city center options include the Ghent Marriott Hotel and the Ghent River Hotel, while the Hotel NH Gent Sint Pieters is handy for the station.

Popular Neighborhoods in Ghent

Patershol - Ghent's medieval center, Patershol is enchanting, boasting the Gravensteen Castle and many excellent restaurants.

Graslei - stretched along the river, Graslei was Ghent's ancient port, and it features some stunning facades as well as numerous riverside bars and cafes.

Korenlei - located across the river from Graslei, Korenlei is just as atmospheric and is home to the excellent Design Museum.

Where to stay in popular areas of Ghent

Most booked hotels in ghent, how to get around ghent, public transportation.

Single bus tickets cost EUR3 when you purchase on-board, or EUR1.40 if you buy from shops or kiosks. A 10-trip pass costs EUR14 and may be the best option.

Taxis aren't cheap, starting with a meter drop of around EUR8, then EUR4 per mile.

Car rental companies in Ghent include Sixt, Luxauto, and Avis, and rates start at about EUR15 per day.

The Cost of Living in Ghent

Shopping streets.

For street food, crafts, and clothing, don't miss the ancient Vrijdagmarkt in Patershol. Otherwise, check out streets like Sint-Niklaasstraat or the Dok Noord shopping mall.

Groceries and Other

Expect to pay around EUR3 for a gallon of milk or EUR2.30 for 12 eggs at Ghent supermarkets like Carrefour and Spar.

Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

Travel Guide

Ghent Walking Tour: A Self-Guided City Trail (Belgium)

Published: September 8, 2023

Modified: December 27, 2023

by Moyra Estrella

Plan Your Trip
Travel Destinations
Travel Essentials & Accessories
Travel Tips
Cultural Exploration

Introduction

Welcome to Ghent, a charming city in Belgium that offers a perfect blend of historical architecture, cultural landmarks, and a vibrant atmosphere. Ghent is known for its medieval charm, where cobblestone streets, picturesque canals, and centuries-old buildings create a unique ambiance that transports visitors back in time.

As you immerse yourself in the rich history and captivating beauty of Ghent, embarking on a self-guided walking tour is an ideal way to explore the city at your own pace. This article will guide you through the must-see attractions and hidden gems that sum up the essence of Ghent. Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, or simply seeking a memorable adventure, this walking tour will ensure you make the most of your time in the city.

The self-guided tour will take you on a journey through Ghent’s architectural marvels, religious landmarks, and vibrant neighborhoods. You’ll have the opportunity to discover iconic sites such as the legendary St. Bavo’s Cathedral, the imposing Belfry of Ghent, and the medieval fortress of Gravensteen Castle. Along the way, you’ll also encounter hidden gems like the picturesque streets of the Patershol district and the picturesque Graslei and Korenlei waterfront.

Ghent is also renowned for its vibrant art scene, and the tour will lead you to the Museum of Fine Arts, where you can marvel at a diverse collection of artworks spanning various eras and styles. Additionally, a visit to the Saint Peter’s Abbey will uncover the fascinating history of this ancient monastery.

One of the highlights of the Ghent walking tour is the opportunity to witness the masterpiece “The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb” at the St. Bavo’s Cathedral. This famous altarpiece, painted by the Van Eyck brothers, is a true artistic marvel with captivating and intricate details.

Whether you choose to follow the entire walking tour or cherry-pick specific attractions based on your interests and time constraints, Ghent promises a truly enchanting experience. So put on your most comfortable shoes, grab a map, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure as you explore the magical city of Ghent.

Getting Started

Before you begin your Ghent walking tour, it’s important to make a few preparations to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here are some tips to help you get started:

1. Plan your route: Ghent is a compact city, making it easy to navigate on foot. Take some time to plan out your route and mark the attractions you wish to visit on a map. This will help you optimize your time and avoid any unnecessary detours.

2. Wear comfortable shoes: As you’ll be walking extensively throughout the tour, it’s essential to wear comfortable shoes. Opt for sneakers or comfortable walking shoes that provide adequate support and cushioning.

3. Check the weather: Ghent’s weather can be unpredictable, so be sure to check the forecast before setting out. Dress accordingly and bring an umbrella or rain jacket, if necessary.

4. Bring a guidebook or download a digital guide: While this article serves as a comprehensive guide, having a physical guidebook or a digital guide on your smartphone can provide additional information and insights about the attractions you’ll be visiting.

5. Carry essentials: Pack a bottle of water to stay hydrated during your walk, especially on warmer days. Don’t forget to bring a small snack or energy bar to keep your energy levels up. It’s also a good idea to have a portable charger for your smartphone in case you need to access maps or other digital resources.

6. Respect local customs and regulations: When visiting religious sites or historical landmarks, it’s important to dress modestly and behave respectfully. Follow any guidelines or restrictions indicated at the attractions to ensure a positive experience for both yourself and other visitors.

7. Take breaks: Pace yourself throughout the tour and take breaks whenever needed. Ghent is filled with cozy cafes and charming squares where you can sit back, relax, and soak in the unique atmosphere.

8. Capture memories: Don’t forget to bring a camera or smartphone to capture the beautiful sights and moments along your walking tour. Ghent is a city of picturesque landscapes and stunning architecture, so be sure to capture those memories to cherish long after your visit.

Now that you’re prepared, it’s time to embark on your Ghent walking tour. Get ready to discover the captivating history, architectural wonders, and hidden gems that await you in this enchanting Belgian city.

St. Bavo’s Cathedral

Your Ghent walking tour begins with a visit to the magnificent St. Bavo’s Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece that showcases the city’s rich history and architectural prowess.

Located in the heart of Ghent, St. Bavo’s Cathedral is a renowned religious landmark that dates back to the 14th century. As you approach the cathedral, you’ll be awestruck by its imposing presence and intricate details.

Step inside to marvel at the stunning interior, adorned with beautiful stained glass windows, towering columns, and ornate chapels. The highlight of the cathedral is undoubtedly the world-famous altarpiece, “The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb” by the Van Eyck brothers.

This remarkable masterpiece is one of the most important works of art in Western history. The altarpiece consists of 12 panels that depict various religious scenes and figures. Each panel is a testament to the Van Eyck brothers’ exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail, with intricate brushwork and vivid colors that bring the artwork to life.

As you gaze upon “The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb,” you’ll be captivated by the expressive faces, delicate drapery, and the subtle play of light and shadow. Take your time to appreciate the intricacies of this masterpiece, which has survived centuries and still manages to inspire awe.

Adjacent to the altarpiece is the Chapel of the Holy Sacrament, a serene space where you can reflect and admire the beautiful paintings and decorations. The cathedral also houses the impressive tomb of Bishop Antonius Triest, an intricate marble masterpiece that pays homage to this influential figure in Ghent’s history.

Don’t forget to climb the 400-step belfry tower for a panoramic view of Ghent’s skyline. From the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the city’s enchanting rooftops, canals, and landmarks.

St. Bavo’s Cathedral is not only a place of worship but also a testament to Ghent’s rich heritage and artistic legacy. It is a must-visit attraction that will leave you with a profound appreciation for the city’s cultural and historical significance.

After exploring St. Bavo’s Cathedral, your walking tour of Ghent continues to the next exciting destination: the iconic Belfry of Ghent.

The Belfry of Ghent

Continuing your Ghent walking tour, you’ll come across the iconic Belfry of Ghent, a striking medieval tower that dominates the city skyline and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Standing at an impressive height of 91 meters, the Belfry is a symbol of Ghent’s prosperity and independence during the Middle Ages. Constructed in the 14th century, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a remarkable example of Gothic architecture.

As you approach the Belfry, you’ll be captivated by its ornate facade and intricate details. Step inside to explore the historical exhibits that showcase the tower’s significance throughout the centuries. You’ll discover the tower’s role as a watchtower, a treasury, and a symbol of civic power.

But the real highlight of your visit to the Belfry is the opportunity to climb the 300 steps to the top. As you make your way up, you’ll pass various levels that were once used as meeting rooms, prisoner cells, and even a treasury. This climb is not for the faint of heart, but the reward is well worth the effort.

Reaching the top of the Belfry, you’ll be greeted with breathtaking panoramic views of Ghent. From this vantage point, you can admire the city’s historic skyline, with its majestic spires, gabled houses, and winding canals. On a clear day, you might even catch a glimpse of the Belgian countryside in the distance.

As you soak in the stunning view, take a moment to appreciate the significance of the Belfry. This tower has stood witness to Ghent’s tumultuous history, from medieval times to modern-day, and has become a symbol of the city’s enduring spirit and resilience.

Before you descend from the Belfry, don’t forget to listen to the enchanting melodies of the carillon bells. These melodious tunes have been filling the air of Ghent for centuries and add a touch of charm to this iconic landmark.

Once you’ve experienced the majesty of the Belfry, your Ghent walking tour will continue to another fascinating destination: Gravensteen Castle, a medieval fortress that will transport you back in time.

Gravensteen Castle

As you explore the enchanting city of Ghent on your walking tour, you’ll come across the impressive Gravensteen Castle, a medieval fortress that exudes a sense of grandeur and history.

Located in the heart of Ghent, Gravensteen Castle, also known as the Castle of the Counts, dates back to the 12th century and has played a significant role in the city’s rich past. With its imposing towers, fortified walls, and a moat that surrounds the castle, it’s a sight that will transport you back to medieval times.

Step inside the castle to discover its fascinating history and explore the various rooms and exhibitions. Wander through the imposing corridors, climb up the defensive towers, and admire the panoramic views of Ghent from the top.

As you delve deeper into the castle’s interior, you’ll encounter exhibits that bring the medieval era to life. Learn about the castle’s former function as a residence for counts, a seat of power, and even a courthouse. Marvel at the ancient weaponry and armor on display, which provide insights into the castle’s role in medieval warfare.

One of the highlights of Gravensteen Castle is the torture chamber, a chilling reminder of the harsh methods used in the past. While the displays can be quite intense, they offer a glimpse into the darker side of history and the castle’s role in maintaining order and control.

Outside the castle, take a stroll in the castle’s courtyard and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. Admire the well-preserved architecture, including the castle’s defensive features and the picturesque bridge that spans the moat.

Gravensteen Castle is not only a historical treasure but also a venue for cultural events and activities. Throughout the year, the castle hosts various exhibitions, reenactments, and medieval festivals, allowing visitors to experience the vibrant atmosphere of the past.

Visiting Gravensteen Castle is a journey back in time, as you immerse yourself in Ghent’s medieval history and experience the grandeur of a bygone era. After exploring the castle, your walking tour of Ghent continues to another captivating destination: St. Michael’s Bridge.

St. Michael’s Bridge

Continuing your exploration of Ghent on your walking tour, you’ll come across the picturesque St. Michael’s Bridge, a charming vantage point that offers stunning views of the city’s enchanting medieval architecture and scenic canals.

Located in the heart of Ghent, St. Michael’s Bridge is a historic crossing that spans the River Leie. As you approach the bridge, you’ll be captivated by its elegant stone arches and the iconic row of statues that adorns its balustrade.

Once you step onto the bridge, you’ll be greeted with breathtaking views in every direction. Look to the west, and you’ll see the impressive skyline of Ghent, with its majestic spires and striking facades. To the east, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the Graslei and Korenlei, two picturesque waterfronts lined with beautifully preserved medieval buildings.

As you take in the scenic surroundings, you’ll notice the row of statues adorning the bridge’s balustrade. These statues represent various figures from Ghent’s history and mythology, adding a touch of artistic flair to the bridge. Among the statues, the figure of St. Michael slaying the dragon stands out, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.

St. Michael’s Bridge is not only a vantage point but also a gathering place for locals and tourists alike. It’s an ideal spot to rest, soak up the atmosphere, and capture stunning photos of the city’s architectural beauty.

During your visit to St. Michael’s Bridge, be sure to look down and admire the gentle flow of the River Leie. As boats pass beneath the bridge, you’ll witness the harmony between nature and the bustling city.

As you continue your walking tour, don’t forget to explore the charming streets and vibrant squares that surround St. Michael’s Bridge. The area is filled with delightful cafes, boutique shops, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

St. Michael’s Bridge offers a moment of tranquility and a chance to truly appreciate the enchanting beauty of Ghent. It’s a must-visit destination that will leave you with a lasting impression. As you continue your adventure through the city, the next stop on your Ghent walking tour is St. Nicholas’ Church.

St. Nicholas’ Church

As you continue your Ghent walking tour, you’ll come across the magnificent St. Nicholas’ Church, a stunning example of Gothic architecture that has stood tall in the city for centuries.

Located in the bustling heart of Ghent, St. Nicholas’ Church is an impressive structure that dominates the skyline with its soaring spire and intricate design. The church, dating back to the 13th century, is dedicated to St. Nicholas, the patron saint of sailors and merchants.

Step inside the church to marvel at its grandeur and intricate details. The soaring ceilings, graceful arches, and intricate stained glass windows create an atmosphere of tranquility and reverence. Take a moment to admire the elegant nave, with its rows of pillars and beautifully crafted altars.

As you explore the church, you’ll notice the stunning collection of religious art and sculptures that adorn its interior. The highlight is undoubtedly the exquisite pulpit, a masterpiece of woodcarving that tells the story of St. Nicholas. The pulpit’s intricate details and lifelike figures are a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the artisans who created it.

St. Nicholas’ Church has undergone extensive restoration over the years, ensuring that its beauty and historical significance are preserved for future generations. The church was once at risk of demolition but was saved thanks to the efforts of passionate locals who recognized its architectural and cultural importance.

As you step outside the church, take a moment to appreciate the picturesque surroundings. St. Nicholas’ Church is located in the heart of Ghent’s historic quarter, surrounded by charming cobblestone streets, lively squares, and vibrant cafes.

One of the notable features of St. Nicholas’ Church is its close proximity to other architectural gems, such as the adjacent Belfry of Ghent and St. Bavo’s Cathedral. These landmarks together form a trio of Gothic masterpieces that define Ghent’s skyline and add to its overall charm.

St. Nicholas’ Church is not only a place of worship but also a testament to Ghent’s rich history and architectural heritage. Its striking presence and artistic treasures make it an essential stop on your Ghent walking tour.

After exploring St. Nicholas’ Church, the next destination on your journey through Ghent is the historic and vibrant district of Patershol.

Patershol District

Continuing your Ghent walking tour, you’ll venture into the charming and historic district of Patershol. Tucked away in the heart of the city, this area is a hidden gem that showcases the rich cultural heritage and vibrant atmosphere of Ghent.

Patershol is a maze of narrow streets and picturesque squares, lined with beautifully preserved medieval buildings. As you meander through this enchanting neighborhood, you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped back in time. The cobblestone streets, colorful facades, and quaint courtyards create a captivating ambiance that is both romantic and authentic.

One of the highlights of Patershol is its vibrant culinary scene. The district is renowned for its diverse range of restaurants, cafes, and eateries, offering a variety of cuisines to suit every palate. From traditional Belgian specialties to international flavors, Patershol has something to satisfy every food lover’s cravings.

While exploring Patershol, be sure to wander off the main streets and venture into the smaller alleyways. This is where you’ll discover hidden courtyards, secret gardens, and charming little squares that are perfect for a moment of relaxation and tranquility.

Patershol is also home to a number of boutique shops, art galleries, and artisanal workshops. Browse through the unique offerings and discover one-of-a-kind souvenirs, handmade crafts, and locally produced goods.

As you explore the district, keep an eye out for the hidden gems and historical landmarks. You may stumble upon remnants of the city’s medieval fortifications, ancient city gates, or hidden chapels. Every corner of Patershol has a story to tell and offers a glimpse into Ghent’s rich past.

Whether you choose to indulge in a culinary delight, browse through the shops, or simply soak up the ambiance, a visit to Patershol is a must during your Ghent walking tour. This historic district will leave you enchanted with its quaint charm and vibrant energy.

After immersing yourself in the beauty of Patershol, your Ghent adventure continues to the picturesque Graslei and Korenlei, where you’ll encounter Ghent’s iconic waterfront.

Graslei and Korenlei

Prepare to be captivated by the picturesque beauty of Graslei and Korenlei, two iconic waterfronts that exude charm and character in the heart of Ghent. These historic quaysides along the River Leie are the perfect setting for a leisurely stroll, offering stunning views of the city’s architectural wonders.

Graslei and Korenlei are lined with beautifully preserved medieval buildings, displaying a range of architectural styles that tell the story of Ghent’s rich heritage. The facades of these buildings showcase a mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque elements, creating a unique and visually appealing sight.

As you walk along the waterfront, you’ll be enthralled by the reflections of the buildings in the calm waters of the river. Take a moment to admire the intricate details of the facades, the ornate gables, and the charming waterfront terraces that add a touch of romance to the scene.

Graslei and Korenlei were once bustling commercial hubs, serving as important trade centers in Ghent’s history. Today, these quaysides attract locals and tourists alike, offering a vibrant atmosphere with lively cafes, restaurants, and souvenir shops.

Stop by one of the riverside cafes and indulge in some people-watching while sipping a cup of coffee or enjoying a delicious local delicacy. The outdoor terraces provide the perfect spot to relax, soak in the view, and appreciate the beauty of your surroundings.

For a unique perspective, hop on a boat cruise along the River Leie. From the water, you’ll have an even more stunning view of the notable landmarks that line the quaysides, including St. Michael’s Bridge and the Guildhalls of the Meat Hall and the Grain Hall.

Graslei and Korenlei are often buzzing with activity and host various events throughout the year. From art fairs and cultural festivals to live music performances, there’s always something happening along these historic waterfronts, adding to the lively atmosphere of Ghent.

As the sun sets and the lights illuminate the buildings along the waterfront, Graslei and Korenlei take on a magical ambiance. This is the perfect time for an evening stroll, when the buildings are beautifully illuminated, creating a romantic and enchanting setting.

Graslei and Korenlei are a true testament to the historical and architectural beauty of Ghent. A visit to these picturesque waterfronts should not be missed during your Ghent walking tour, as they offer a glimpse into the city’s grand past and showcase the timeless charm that continues to captivate visitors.

After immersing yourself in the beauty of Graslei and Korenlei, your Ghent adventure continues to the stunning Saint James’ Church.

Saint James’ Church

As your Ghent walking tour progresses, you’ll encounter the awe-inspiring Saint James’ Church, a magnificent place of worship steeped in history and architectural splendor.

Situated near the bustling Korenmarkt square, Saint James’ Church stands as a testament to Ghent’s rich religious heritage. Dating back to the 13th century, this Gothic church showcases a harmonious blend of architectural styles and intricate details.

Step inside Saint James’ Church to be greeted by a serene and contemplative atmosphere. The soaring ceilings, soaring arches, and stained glass windows create a sense of grandeur that is befitting of this sacred space. Take a moment to absorb the tranquility and meditate in the presence of the magnificent altars.

As you explore the church, you’ll encounter several notable features. One of the highlights is the impressive Baroque pulpit, adorned with intricate carvings and delicate details. The pulpit serves as a focal point and a reminder of the rich artistic tradition prevalent during the period.

Another notable feature is the breathtaking pipe organ, which dates back to the 18th century. Its majestic presence and powerful sound fill the church, adding to the divine and ethereal experience within its walls.

While the interior of Saint James’ Church is undoubtedly captivating, don’t forget to admire the exterior as well. The elaborate facades, adorned with sculptures and decorative elements, stand as a testament to the craftsmanship of the era.

Adjacent to the church, you’ll find the Saint James’ Churchyard, a peaceful green space that offers a respite from the bustling city. Take a leisurely stroll or find a bench to sit on, allowing you to soak in the peaceful ambiance and reflect on your journey through Ghent.

Like many of Ghent’s iconic landmarks, Saint James’ Church is rooted in history and holds significant cultural and religious importance. It serves as a reminder of the city’s rich spiritual heritage and architectural prowess.

Once you’ve explored the marvels of Saint James’ Church, your Ghent walking tour continues to the Museum of Fine Arts, where you’ll further immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant artistic scene.

The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb

A visit to Ghent would not be complete without experiencing the mesmerizing masterpiece known as “The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb.” Housed within the St. Bavo’s Cathedral, this iconic altarpiece is a testament to the Flemish Renaissance and the genius of the Van Eyck brothers.

Painted in the 15th century by Jan and Hubert Van Eyck, “The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb” is an extraordinary panel painting consisting of 12 panels. This monumental altarpiece is renowned for its exquisite detail, masterful technique, and profound symbolism.

As you stand before the altarpiece, you’ll be immediately drawn into its intricate world. Each panel depicts a different scene, from the central adoration of the Lamb to the depiction of biblical figures, saints, and angels. The level of precision and realism in the figures and landscapes is truly awe-inspiring.

One of the most renowned panels is the Ghent Altarpiece’s central panel, featuring the adoration of the mystic lamb. The figure of the lamb, symbolizing Christ, is surrounded by a multitude of figures, representing various religious and spiritual figures, including angels, prophets, apostles, and the Virgin Mary.

What makes “The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb” even more extraordinary is its ability to captivate viewers with its hidden details. Through the use of microscopic pigments and tiny brushstrokes, the Van Eyck brothers created a level of realism and depth that was revolutionary for their time.

The altarpiece has not been without its trials. Over the centuries, it suffered damage from wars, theft, and even a botched restoration. However, ongoing efforts to restore and preserve the masterpiece have ensured that its beauty continues to shine through.

A visit to “The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb” is truly a transformative experience. Standing before this artistic marvel, you can’t help but be moved by the beauty, skill, and profound spiritual expression that emanate from each panel. It’s an opportunity to witness the genius of the Van Eyck brothers and to appreciate the artistic legacy they left behind.

Be sure to take your time to observe the altarpiece from different angles and distances, allowing the intricate details and symbolism to unfold before your eyes. The visual richness and emotional depth of “The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb” are sure to leave a lasting impression.

After immersing yourself in the splendor of “The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb,” your Ghent walking tour continues to the Museum of Fine Arts, where you’ll encounter even more artistic treasures that Ghent has to offer.

The Museum of Fine Arts

Continuing your Ghent walking tour, you’ll make your way to the Museum of Fine Arts, a cultural haven that houses an impressive collection of artworks spanning various periods and styles.

Located in the heart of the city, the Museum of Fine Arts, also known as the MSK Ghent, is a treasure trove for art enthusiasts. The museum houses a diverse range of works, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.

As you enter the museum, you’ll be greeted by a carefully curated collection that reflects the rich artistic heritage of Ghent and beyond. The museum boasts an extensive collection of Flemish and Dutch art, with works by renowned masters such as Jan van Eyck, Peter Paul Rubens, and Hieronymus Bosch.

Wander through the museum’s galleries, allowing yourself to be immersed in the beauty and significance of the artworks on display. From intimate portraits to grand landscapes, each artwork tells a story and offers a glimpse into the artistic traditions and cultural contexts of the time.

In addition to Flemish and Dutch art, the Museum of Fine Arts also features works from other European schools, including French Impressionism, Italian Renaissance, and German Expressionism. This diverse range of styles and movements allows visitors to appreciate the development and evolution of art across different periods.

Throughout the year, the museum also hosts temporary exhibitions that showcase a wide range of themes and artistic disciplines. These exhibitions offer a fresh perspective and an opportunity to discover new artists or delve deeper into specific artistic movements.

As you explore the Museum of Fine Arts, take advantage of guided tours and audio guides that provide insightful commentary and background information about the artworks. These resources enhance your understanding and appreciation of the pieces on display.

The Museum of Fine Arts not only serves as a sanctuary for art lovers but also as an educational platform for visitors of all ages. The museum offers workshops, lectures, and educational programs that allow individuals to engage with the artworks and explore their own creative potential.

Before you leave the museum, take a moment to relax at the museum’s café or browse through the well-stocked gift shop. Here, you can find art-related books, prints, and unique souvenirs to commemorate your visit.

The Museum of Fine Arts in Ghent is a haven for art enthusiasts and a place of discovery for those seeking to expand their artistic horizons. It celebrates the richness and diversity of the art world, offering a truly immersive experience for visitors of all backgrounds.

As you bid farewell to the Museum of Fine Arts, your Ghent walking tour continues to the intriguing Saint Peter’s Abbey, where you’ll uncover more of Ghent’s fascinating history and cultural heritage.

Saint Peter’s Abbey

As your Ghent walking tour progresses, you’ll make your way to the captivating Saint Peter’s Abbey, a site steeped in history and cultural significance. Nestled within a tranquil courtyard, this ancient abbey offers a glimpse into Ghent’s rich past.

Saint Peter’s Abbey, also known as Sint-Pietersabdij, dates back to the 7th century and has served various purposes throughout its existence. Originally founded as a Benedictine monastery, it later became an important center for religious studies and art production.

As you wander through the abbey, you’ll witness the architectural evolution that spans centuries. The Romanesque and Gothic elements blend harmoniously, creating a distinctive and engaging aesthetic. The abbey’s tranquil gardens, cloisters, and courtyards evoke a sense of serenity and peace.

Within the abbey’s walls, you’ll find a treasure trove of cultural artifacts, artworks, and fascinating exhibits. The Ghent City Museum is housed within the abbey, showcasing the city’s history through various displays and multimedia presentations.

One of the most striking features of Saint Peter’s Abbey is the majestic Refectory, where the monks used to dine in silence. This monumental space now hosts temporary art exhibitions, adding a contemporary touch to the ancient surroundings.

Adjacent to the abbey is the Saint Peter’s Church, a neo-Gothic marvel that offers a glimpse into the abbey’s religious legacy. Step inside to admire the stunning stained glass windows and the intricate details of the altars.

The abbey’s serene ambience makes it an ideal place for reflection and contemplation. Take a moment to sit in the abbey’s courtyard, surrounded by centuries-old architecture and tranquil greenery. The gentle sound of the flowing water and the peaceful atmosphere provide a welcome respite from the bustling city.

Aside from its historical and cultural significance, Saint Peter’s Abbey is also a venue for various cultural events and concerts. From classical music recitals to contemporary art installations, the abbey continues to serve as a vibrant hub for the arts, bridging the gap between the past and the present.

A visit to Saint Peter’s Abbey offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and immerse yourself in the rich history of Ghent. It’s a place where the past and present converge, inviting visitors to explore the intertwining threads of spirituality, art, and heritage.

As your walking tour of Ghent nears its end, take a moment to reflect upon the remarkable experiences and discoveries you’ve encountered throughout the city. Ghent’s allure lies not only in its architectural wonders but also in the preservation of its cultural heritage.

Before bidding farewell to Ghent, take the time to indulge in the city’s culinary delights, browse through the local shops, or simply find a quiet spot by the canal to savor the beauty and charm that make Ghent a truly captivating destination.

Your Ghent walking tour may be coming to an end, but the memories and impressions you’ve gathered along the way will surely stay with you long after you’ve left this enchanting Belgian city.

As your Ghent walking tour concludes, you can reflect upon the incredible journey you’ve experienced through this captivating city. From its medieval charm to its vibrant cultural scene, Ghent has undoubtedly left a lasting impression.

Throughout your tour, you’ve delved into the city’s rich history, exploring architectural marvels such as St. Bavo’s Cathedral, the Belfry of Ghent, and Gravensteen Castle. You’ve witnessed the breathtaking beauty and symbolism of “The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb,” and immersed yourself in the vibrant art scene at the Museum of Fine Arts.

You’ve explored charming neighborhoods like Patershol, reveled in the picturesque waterfronts of Graslei and Korenlei, and discovered the tranquility of Saint Peter’s Abbey. Each step of your journey has revealed a new layer of Ghent’s charm, history, and cultural heritage.

But Ghent offers more than just its architectural wonders and cultural gems. It is a city vibrant with life, filled with bustling cafes, lively squares, and a culinary scene that will tantalize your taste buds. The proximity to nature, with its serene canals and peaceful gardens, adds to the city’s allure and provides moments of tranquility amidst the urban setting.

Ghent’s magic lies in its ability to seamlessly blend its historical past with a modern and innovative spirit. It is a city that celebrates its cultural heritage while embracing contemporary arts, design, and gastronomy. This dynamic blend creates an atmosphere that is dynamic, inspiring, and captivating.

As you bid farewell to Ghent, take with you the memories of its enchanting streets, the sound of the church bells ringing, and the warmth of the local hospitality. Ghent has welcomed you into its embrace and offered you a glimpse into its soul.

So, whether you were drawn to Ghent for its history, art, architecture, or simply to immerse yourself in the city’s unique atmosphere, you have undoubtedly experienced the allure and beauty that make Ghent a destination worth exploring.

Remember the moments you’ve created, the stories you’ve uncovered, and the connections you’ve made during your time in Ghent. Carry them with you, and let them inspire you to seek out new adventures, discover new cultures, and continue exploring the wonders of this remarkable world we inhabit.

As you venture onward to your next destination, take with you the spirit of Ghent and the memories of your remarkable walking tour through this truly magical city.

Privacy Overview
Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

Ghent Walking Tour: A Self-Guided City Trail (Belgium)

by Aileen Adalid Things to Do , Belgium 55 comments

Best Hotels in Colombo, Sri Lanka: From Cheap to Luxury Accommodations and Places to Stay
Berghaus Boots: The Best Outdoor Clothing & Hiking Footwear (Review)
Pan Pacific Hanoi: An Upscale Staycation in Vietnam’s Capital
Best Hotels in Sapporo, Hokkaido (Japan): From Cheap to Luxury Accommodations and Places to Stay
Best Hotels in Guangzhou, China: From Cheap to Luxury Accommodations and Places to Stay
Best Hotels in Bangkok, Thailand: From Cheap to Luxury Accommodations and Places to Stay
Where to Stay in Geneva, Switzerland: The Trendy N’vY Manotel Hotel
How to Apply for a New Zealand Visa for Filipino Tourists or Visitors
Antarctica Packing List: The Essential Clothing & Gear to Bring on Your Expedition
10 Things to Do in Gujo Hachiman City (Gifu Prefecture, Japan)

Ghent and Bruges , the charming ‘ darlings ‘ of Belgium, have long been pitted against one another — not only by tourists but even by locals themselves! It’s no wonder though because both of them are filled with rich history and sights. (Ghent Walking Tour)

In fact, I still fondly remember how a mini-debate ensued when I first asked my Belgian friends’ thoughts on the most beautiful town/city in Belgium. As soon as the question rolled out off my lips, there was instantly a divide: the Ghent team and the Bruges team. (Of course, there were biased people in the bunch since they lived in or close to either of the two.)

At the end of the day though, there wasn’t a ‘winner’ in the argument so I simply decided that I will check these two places for myself! The final verdict?

Well, trust me when I say this: BOTH were soooo lovely may it be daytime or night time and it’s all because of their equally spell-binding structures and canals — naturally, I can’t just pick one! Even if they’re not entirely the same, both Ghent and Bruges have their individual strengths and weaknesses that in the end, they just balanced out.

Top Tour to Try?

Check out this hassle-free Ghent and Bruges day trip tour !

For instance, Bruges wins in the ‘ cuteness ‘ department for being such a small yet enchanting historical and medieval city (some would even say that it’s like a ‘city museum’ in itself); however, due to its long-standing popularity as one of Europe’s stunning little cities, it typically results to a very touristy atmosphere. On the other hand, Ghent has a bigger area, resulting in a more dynamic city with lesser tourists (it’s even contested as an underrated picturesque destination in the country); however, some would say that it loses a bit on the romantic side of things as compared to Bruges, especially with the more urban atmosphere that surrounds Ghent.

Given these points, I bet you can imagine by now that if you combine the two, they would surely become an unbeatable pair! So I say: arrange a trip for the both of them if you have the time. But if you don’t, then with your knowledge now of the pros and cons of each, as per your traveling style, you can determine the best destination for yourself.

To read and know more about Bruges as well as the things that you can do, come and check out my post here:

» READ: Things to Do in Bruges

Meanwhile, to know more about the city of Ghent, do continue reading through this article especially since what I am sharing with you today is my own self-guided Ghent walking tour or route that will help make your travel ordeal a lot more hassle-free.

Table of Contents

DIY Ghent Walking Tour

» quick travel planning.

Top tours & experiences
Find flights to Ghent
Visa requirements
Best places to stay
Travel insurance (5% discount)
Stay connected

– – –

Quick Ghent Facts

It is Gent in Dutch and Gand in French. (It helps to know since Belgium predominantly speaks [Flemish] Dutch and French).
It is the capital and largest city of the East Flanders province with a population that is around 248,000+ as of January 2013.
One of the well-known festivities would be Ghent Festival / Festivities or ‘Gentse Feesten’ which is held every year for 10 days by mid-July and attended by millions of visitors!
Ghent residents are called as rope or ‘noose bearers’ ( Stroppendragers ) since in the past, after revolting in 1539 against the regime of Charles V (who was the Holy Roman Emperor and King of Spain in 1539) and failing in doing so, Charles made the nobles of Ghent to parade around town barefoot and with a noose rope around their neck. (You’ll see a statue somewhere in Prinsenhof commemorating this time in the past, and you will also notice that some signs feature this ‘element’).

Ghent Walking Tour Map

Even though it’s a big city, you can actually explore the town on foot in just a day! For your ease, I have included a Ghent walking tour map below showing the address and routes of the top hotspots in Ghent, followed by a listed section that briefly explains each of these places.

Things to Do in Ghent

» patershol.

An old and medieval quarter in Ghent, Patershol is your go-to place if you truly want to find the ‘gastronomic’ or ‘foodie’ center of the city. Lined with an array of small cafes and restaurants, there is definitely something for everyone here. Besides, this area holds a charm given its closed street pattern — truth be told, this is said to be one of the most desirable neighborhoods in the city!

TRIVIA: This side of the river is called the ‘Domain of the Counts’ as it was originally the property of the count (meaning that it was not owned by the city).

Follow the route indicated on the Ghent walking tour map above and you will arrive at the street of Kraanlei which is by the river.

Right somewhere in the middle of this stretch, you will see two interesting houses. First will be Kraanlei 81 which is a baroque house richly decorated with a flute player, the five senses, a flying deer, and many others. Next will be Kraanlei 79 which is just beside it. It’s called the Six Works of Mercy adorned with 6 figures. However, historians are arguing that there was a seventh which depicts the burial of the dead and they claim that it could have been omitted as it was too grim.

NOTE: Today, this house is a shop that sells Ghent specialties. A must-try would be the cuberdons, that are sweet raspberry-flavored gum. It’s fondly called as ‘ Gentse neus ‘ or Ghent nose because, as it is, it looks like a human’s nose.

» Other surrounding sight to see : Ghent’s version of Manneken Pis which they claim to be older than the Manneken Pis in Brussels .

» Gravensteen

Smacked right in the middle of the city stands the imposing Gravensteen or ‘Castle of the Counts’ that is referred to as one of the strongest moated fortresses in Western Europe. Originating from the Middle Ages, this was built by the past count Philip of Alsace and has since then become the seat of the Counts of Flanders. But somewhere along the way, it was abandoned which lead the castle to become a courthouse and a prison at certain points in time.

Today though, it is a museum that does not only showcase medieval armors but medieval torturing devices as well. I took the chance to do the tour here and it was interesting and… refreshing. (I say this because the first time that I visited this castle, I had just finished visiting the castles in France which were predominantly filled with stuff from royalty. Therefore it was quite a new experience when I finally landed in a castle that actually shows historical weapons, warfare, and the like).

» Fees : Basic price €10.00 / For +65 years €7.50 For those below 26 years €6.00 / For 19 years and below €0.00

» De Oude Vismijn

Or ‘Old Fishmarket’ is located in the square of Sint-Veerleplein and it is one of the oldest markets in the city. In here, you will see the gatehouse built in Rococo-style. It was originally decorated with three statues of sea gods but after a fire in 1872, only the statue of Neptune (in the middle) was saved. The rest were replaced by statues of a man and a woman that respectively represents the River Scheldt and River Leie.

NOTE: It’s in this area where you will find Ghent’s Tourist Office.

» Jan Breydelstraat

If you are into unique finds, make sure that you pass by this narrow yet picturesque street of Jan Breydelstraat. In here you will find several interesting shops and restaurants such as that of:

The Fallen Angels : for those who want a touch of nostalgia, you will find here a lot of old and vintage stuff!
Bloemenijs : come try out a unique flower ice cream.
House of Elliot : one of the top restaurants in Ghent and a Michelin-accredited restaurant, it’s a must to try their lobsters! Just make sure you reserve in advance.

You will also find key spots like:

Het Design Museum : this is a good place to visit if you’re into contemporary and interior design.
Appelbrugparkje : one of the many hidden gems in Ghent, this is a park that has a really nice view of the river.

» Graslei & Korenlei

The most-pictured area in Ghent is this area around and between the streets of Graslei and Korenlei . (If you’re following my map above, you’ll be standing at the Korenlei side with the Graslei street on the other side of the water).

A lot of the locals would proudly claim that this is the most beautiful spot in their city and I have to agree with them! It was truly and absolutely magical both during the day and the night. Back in the 11th century, these both formed the city’s first trading harbor.

In this time though, amidst several medieval guild houses that have survived the years (such as the Grain Weighers, the Guildhall of the Free Boatmen, and more), it is mainly a ‘hangout place’ speckled by cafes and restaurants here and there so that visitors and locals alike can enjoy the amazing view while eating. (You will also find a lot of people who would just resort to sitting by the river, so feel free to do the same!)

» Sint-Michielsbrug

(St. Michael’s Bridge) Walk down a bit further and go up the bridge! This is the best place to enjoy a panoramic 360 view of almost all the top attractions in Ghent.

You will see the Graslei and Korenlei in front of you on your Ghent walking tour, the St. Michael’s Church behind you, the Castle of the Counts in the distance, and the main ‘three towers’ ahead: Saint Nicholas Church, Belfry Tower, and Saint Bavo’s Cathedral. You should NOT miss taking a view and a shot from this vantage point!

» Sint-Michielskerk

As I’ve mentioned above, just beside the St. Michael’s Bridge would be Saint Michael’s Church (that’s why the bridge was called as such). Clearly, as you have seen from the featured photo of this post as well as from the photo above, this Roman Catholic church is a wondrous sight that you must see on your Ghent walking tour!

Supposedly, this was planned to be 134 meters high, but due to delays and cost concerns, the tower was never completed and it just stands now at 24 meters — which is absolutely fine. I personally think that it looks really good this way!

NOTE: You will find here the famous painting ‘Christ on the Cross’ by Anthony Van Dyck.

Walk a little bit further and you will see Het Pand, a former Dominican monastery and hospital which is now a cultural and congress center owned by Ghent University. As a recognized monument, this is worth checking out! Besides, the courtyard is quite a pretty sight.

» Sint-Niklaaskerk

By now, you are at the commercial heart of Ghent, but smacked right in the middle would be the old St. Nicholas’ church which is an exemplary example of the Scheldt Gothic architectural style. One of the highlights of this church would be its organ which is produced by the famous French organ builder Aristide Cavaillé-Coll.

» Metselaarshuis

Called as Masons’ Guild Hall in English, this structure that’s just opposite of St. Nicholas’ church is the original 16th century Masons’ Guild Hall (“ original ” since there’s an exact copy of it on the Graslei ).

And like any other typical guild hall, you will see on the top of their stepped gable some distinguishing statues — this one has 6 dancers that look like they’re merrily frolicking around. This was placed by Ghent sculptor and folk-singer Walter De Buck, the one who spearheads the Ghent Festival.

After a string of old historical landmarks, this will be the first modern structure that you will see in the city! A large open canopy structure that demands attention in the middle of the Emile Braun square, Stadshal, or ‘Town Hall’ was erected as part of the urban reconstruction goals for this public area. Underneath, there is an area that includes a brasserie, dressing rooms, public toilets, and a bicycle park.

Nearby you will see other landmarks like:

Emile Braunplein : a small park that also has the…
De Bron der Geknielden: (The Fountain of the Kneelers) a masterpiece composed of 6 naked young men who are seemingly staring into the reflection of the fountain’s water. Made by a Belgian artist, George Minne, this artpiece is said to signify Narcissus from the Greek mythology who did the same thing out of narcissism.
Mammelokker : this was quite a sight! It depicts the legend of Cimon who was condemned to starve to death, but he was saved by his daughter who breastfed him every day. (The name means exactly as is! “Mamme” = breast. “Lokken” = suck.)

» Het Belfort van Gent

The ‘Belfry of Ghent’ is about 91 meters high, making it the tallest belfry in the whole of Belgium. In the past, it used to be a bell tower, a watchtower, and a place where records of municipal privileges were kept.

With its adjoining rectangular hall, it also used to be the cloth hall that handled the cloth trade in the city during the Middle Ages (at the entrance of the small annex connected to this hall, you will see Mammelokker which I’ve just discussed above).

NOTE: This is listed under the UNESCO World Heritage List.

» Koninklijke Nederlandse Schouwburg (NTGent)

The Royal Dutch Theatre is the city’s municipal auditorium where you can enjoy both classical and contemporary plays.

Not only is it a spectacle from the inside, but from the outside as well as the god, Apollo, stands in the middle of the square upon a fountain! To learn more about the theatre’s schedule, see here .

» Sint-Baafskathedraal Gent

Photo by: VisitGent / CC

(St. Bavo’s Cathedral) This is the ‘seat’ of the diocese or bishop of Ghent. In 942, this used to be a small wooden church but later on expanded in Romanesque style by 1038 and onwards. Come 1559 when the Diocese of Ghent was founded, this church became its cathedral. Today, St. Bavo’s Cathedral holds a lot of treasures!

From famous paintings ( Saint Bavo enters the Convent at Ghent and The Calvary Triptych by Justus van Gent, View of Gent by Lucas de Heere, etc.) to key treasures ( rococo pulpit, Baroque high altar, tombs of bishops, etc.), there are surely a lot of things to see here.

But of course, the one work that stands out from all of the rest is the world-famous 12-paneled Ghent Altarpiece (Adoration of the Mystic Lamb) . As one of Belgium and the world’s greatest masterpieces (for being the first major oil painting depicting the A to Z of Christianity), it is said to be the most stolen artwork of all time ! Why so? Well, it was robbed by Napoleon, nearly burned by Calvinists, hunted in WWI, and repeatedly stolen in WWII (Hitler and Nazis really wanted to own it) . In fact, up till now, a part of it is still missing which is ‘The Just Judges’ panel.

TRIVIA: If you watched the movie, The Monuments Men , this is one of the paintings that they were trying to recover.

When I first visited Ghent in 2013, I saw this painting up close in Museum voor Schone Kunsten* (Gent Museum of Fine Arts) as they were doing a routine fix for it. It’s still there since they are doing a 7-year restoration, so you can definitely visit this museum to get a look at it up close and LIVE as they do their work. So what then is in St. Bavo’s Cathedral? Two-thirds of the original work and the missing panels that are being restored are replaced by black and white replicas.

* The location of the museum is a bit far outside the city center so I didn’t include it in the Ghent walking tour map above.

» Geeraard de Duivelsteen

Photo by: Lech Linkel / CC

This is the ‘Castle of Gerald the Devil’ named after the Knight, Geeraard Vilain. He was no devil but he was nicknamed that way and this edifice played a vital role in defending the Portus Ganda , a trading post that was the foundation of the creation of Ghent in the past.

Over time, it has been a knight’s residence, an arsenal, a monastery, a school, a bishop’s seminary, a madhouse, and a prison.

This is the official Town or City Hall of Ghent (not to be confused with Stadshal above) and you would immediately be struck by awe with its two ‘faces’: the flamboyant Gothic style on the right (by Hoogpoort street) and the dark Renaissance style on the left (by Botermarkt street) .

You can also see a lot of architectural styles in this building: the Arsenal Hall’s wooden vaulting, the Pacification Hall with its labyrinth, the Wedding Chapel with its stained glass windows and so much more!

NOTE: Nearby, you will see Sint Jorishof which is the oldest hotel in Western Europe where Maria of Burgundy stayed in 1477.

» Werregarenstraat or Graffitistraatje

Launched as a graffiti project during the 1995 Ghent Festival, this has since remained as a ‘tolerant zone’ for all types of graffiti and where all street art is to be placed.

Artists are even given the freedom to change the artworks as they please; therefore, you could expect that the view here will change from time to time. This is a fun place to visit for your DIY Ghent walking tour so keep your camera on hand!

» Sint-Jacobskerk

(St. James’ Church) Dating back to the Romanesque period, this church has gone through a lot of renovation, destruction, and expansion.

Meanwhile, the surrounding square called Bij Sint-Jacobs and the Trefpunt café is the epicenter of the Ghent Festivities every year.

» Vrijdagmarkt

(Friday Market) This is another one of the oldest squares in the city and it played a big role in history as it used to be where all political and social life in Ghent took place — though it’s also where public executions were done. Surrounding this area are restaurants as well as key landmarks that you could check out:

Toreken : a 15th century tower where trade regulations were used to be announced from
Ons Huis : (Our House) a monumental home of socialist trade unions
Jacob van Artevelde statue : a key figure and the ‘Wise Man of Ghent’ whose support of the English King kept the city (as well as Flanders) to remain neutral and unharmed during the Hundred Years War. He was murdered years later by rivals and Ghent is still called today sometimes as the ‘City of Artvelde’
Tavern Dulle Griet : this is not a historical spot per se, but I highlighted this since it’s a legendary café to go to for Belgian beers! They have over 260 types, and customers can swap one of their shoes for a Max beer (served in a boot-shaped glass). But don’t worry, you can get your shoe back afterwards.

» Dulle Griet

Photo by: Wernervc / CC

By the River Leie, you will chance upon this quaint-looking spot on your Ghent walking tour where you can not only unwind but also glance upon the Dulle Griet (Mad Meg) which is a medieval supergun bombard constructed in the first half of the 15th century.

This was employed by the city in the siege of Oudenaarde (a nearby municipality) .

» Groentenmarkt

Photo by: Paul Hermans / CC

Yet another Ghent square but this time around, it holds establishments where you can primarily buy fresh products and Flemish specialties like Ganda ham, sweet cuberdons, or the Tierentyn mustard. Make sure that you visit the medieval Great Butcher’s Hall which has an impressive open wooden roof and great selections of Flanders cuisine.

Ghent Travel Guide

» how to get to ghent.

By Car. Belgium has an impressive motorway so it’s very easy to reach Ghent by car. Just take either the two main highways E40 or E17 and you’ll see ample signs that will lead you to the city. (These two highways intersect to Ghent).

By Train. Likewise, Belgium has a good train system and from the capital, Brussels, heading to Ghent will only take you 30 minutes. Depending on your location, you can pick either Gent-Dampoort or Gent-Sint-Pieters for your arrival station. Gent-Sint-Pieters is the main station and all trains pass through this, whereas Gent-Dampoort mainly serves towards/from Antwerp and is closest to the city center.

TIP : Pick the “IC” marked trains since they travel faster as compared to “IR”. The “L” trains are the slowest since they travel ‘locally’, meaning that it stops at more stations.

By Bus. Eurolines and Megabus both go to/from Ghent.

By Plane. The closest airport would be Brussels Airport (Zaventem Airport).

» If you want a more detailed transportation planner, try using Rome2Rio ! I am in love with this platform since it gives you all the possible routes.

» Where to Stay in Ghent

Having landed in such a medieval city like Ghent, you should absolutely grab the chance of making the most of your experience by staying in an equally historic accommodation! With Historic Hotels Ghent’s collection of 3 privately-owned establishments — the Ghent River Hotel (4 stars), the Hotel de Flandre (4 stars), and the Hotel Gravensteen (3 stars) — you are sure to have a meaningful and comfortable stay! Guaranteed.

Besides, with their range, you can pick the hotel that best suits your needs whether it be by price or by location (but then again all 3 have a prime location within the city center).

» If you happen to have a tighter budget, you can always check by Booking.com for the best deals on other hotels, inns, and hostels in Ghent!

You can clearly see that Ghent is full of wonders that you must explore! Add the fact that it’s a car-free city, you’ll never have to worry about traffic and you can even take your sweet time in enjoying the charming streets fully.

All in all, I hope you’ll enjoy your trip fully with the help of my guide. Do tell me how it goes!

Have you seen my latest vlog?

Hey there! I am Aileen Adalid. At 21, I quit my corporate job in the Philippines to pursue my dreams. Today, I am a successful digital nomad (online entrepreneur, travel writer, & vlogger) living a sustainable travel lifestyle.

My mission? To show you how it is absolutely possible to create a life of travel no matter the odds — and I will help you achieve that through my detailed travel hacks, guides, resources, tips, and MORE!

Follow Along

CURRENTLY BASED IN: The Philippines

100k Followers
51k Followers
80k Followers
10k Followers
23.1k Followers

Join over 1 million readers worldwide and get my FREE packing checklist, gain exclusive access to travel giveaways and more!

Success! Next, please check your email to confirm your subscription.

GET FREE PRINTABLE NOW!

Trending Now

Korean visa application requirements for filipino tourists in manila, philippines (single / multiple entry).

Make your South Korea travel dreams come true and get a single or multiple South Korean visa in Manila, Philippines!

Top 10 Things to Do on a Trip to South America

South America is one of the most diverse continents — full of natural wonders and fascinating cultures. Join us as we explore the top 10 things to do.

Top 10 Things to Do for Your First Tibet Travel

Make the most of your Tibet travel with these top 10 must-do activities, from exploring ancient monasteries to trekking mountains!

Geisha of Japan: Understanding the Facts, History & Myths

Japan’s geisha are cloaked in mystery & secrecy resulting in a number of false ideas about them — so let’s get the facts straight!

Maximizing Your Miles: Unlock Budget-Friendly Travel Hacks & Tips

Start traveling smart! Take note of these travel hacks that will help you in maximizing your miles or do points hacking.

Learn Today

How to start a successful blog, 55 comments.

Thank you for sharing this information about this beautiful city. Ghent is my favorite city in Belgium. The Graslei during Ghent Festivities is excellent <3

Ghent, just like many cities in Belgium, is absolutely gorgeous. Walking along the river or sitting by it people watching was one of my favourite things to do. Especially at night when the lights illuminate the old buildings, such a lovely place

Wow you have done Belgium a great service because Ghent looks like an amazing place to visit!

Just did this walk – loved it and great link to google maps to follow the tour

Hi Aileen, was planning for my solo trip to Belgium and came across your site. Very informative and I am certainly gonna bookmark this! Thanks dear!

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Be notified of follow-up comments by email

Be notified of new posts by email

Submit Comment

Pin It on Pinterest

Ghent travel guide

Ghent is a beautiful city located in the Flemish region of Belgium. It’s the third-largest city in Belgium and has a rich history and culture. Ghent is also known for its beautiful canals, medieval architecture, and stunning art museums.

The city started as a settlement next to the river Scheldt and Leie. In the late middle ages it had become one of the largest flourishing cities and richest cities in northern Europe. Therefore the city is packed with history, art and culture.

Flights to Belgium

Trains to Belgium

Ferries to Belgium

Traveling on a tight budget or not, sightseeing and exploring the historical city center is probably the best way to spend your time in Ghent.

Don’t want to explore the city alone? No problem, you can always join a free daily walking tour. More information: http://gentfreewalkingtours.com/

Top 5 Tourist Attractions in Ghent

Gravensteen castle : This medieval castle, also known as the Castle of the Counts, is a must-see attraction in Ghent. Built in the 12th century, it offers a glimpse into the city’s rich history and houses a museum with exhibits on the castle’s history.
Belfry : The Belfry of Ghent is a medieval tower that offers stunning views of the city from its top. Visitors can climb the tower’s 300 steps to reach the top and enjoy panoramic views of Ghent.
Saint Bavo’s Cathedral : This stunning cathedral is home to several masterpieces of art, including the world-famous Ghent Altarpiece. It’s also the final resting place of Saint Bavo, the patron saint of Ghent.
Saint Nicholas’ Church : This beautiful church is located in the heart of the city and is a great example of Gothic architecture. It’s known for its intricate stained glass windows and ornate altar.
Graslei and Korenlei : These two picturesque areas of Ghent are located along the river and are home to some of the city’s most iconic buildings. Visitors can stroll along the river and admire the stunning architecture while enjoying a drink or a bite to eat at one of the many cafes and restaurants in the area.

Best things to do in Ghent

Discover the city centre : Walking around the city centre is definitely your best way to spend your time in Ghent. There are daily free walking tours , or you could book a guided tour.
Canal boat tour : A canal boat tour is a great way to see the city from a different perspective. Visitors can take a guided tour along the canals and learn about the city’s history and architecture while enjoying the views.
Local markets : Ghent is home to several local markets that offer a wide range of goods, from fresh produce to handmade crafts. The Friday Market and the Sunday Morning Market are two of the most popular markets in the city.
Parks and gardens : Ghent is home to several beautiful parks and gardens that are perfect for a relaxing stroll or a picnic. The Citadel Park and the Botanical Garden are two of the most popular green spaces in the city.
Cultural events : Ghent is a city that loves its cultural events, with several festivals and events taking place throughout the year. The Ghent Festival in July and the Winterfest in December are two of the most popular events in the city.

Musea in Ghent:

S.M.A.K Museum for contemporary Arts
M.S.K: Museum for Fine-Arts
S.T.A.M Ghent City Museum
Design Museum Gent

Guided Tours

Ghent citycard.

Are you planning to stay in Ghent for 48h or more? Then you definitely should pick up the Gent Citycard. Not only does this card offer you free public transport, it also gives you access to al the top attractions in Ghent.

The Ghent citycard is available for 48h or 72 hours. The 48h citycard costs 38€ whilst the 72h citycard costs 44€.

free public transport in Ghent
1 day free bike rental in Ghent
1 day access to the Ghent hop-on/hop-off water tram
access to all top attractions in Ghent
includes a guided boat tour in the canals of Ghent

You can buy the Ghent citycard at the Tourist information desk, all participating museums and attractions in Ghent, at De Lijn salespoints and in several hotels in Ghent. For more information, check the official website: https://visit.gent.be/en/citycard-gent-buy

Ghent tourist map

The map below features most of Ghents popular things to see and do. You can save it to your google maps account for later use on your smartphone.

Travel to Ghent

Getting to Ghent is easy, whether you’re traveling by plane, train, or car. Brussels Airport is the closest international airport, and there are frequent train services from Brussels to Ghent. If you’re traveling by car, Ghent is easily accessible from the E40 and E17 motorways.

Are you traveling from Brussels to Bruges? Then Ghent is located in the middle of your route! Both Brussels and Antwerp are only 60km away from Ghent. Bruges is another 50km ahead. It’s the perfect stop on your trip through Flanders.

Trains to Ghent

There are trains to Ghent running from all nearby major Belgian cities. Brussels is only 40 minutes away, Antwerpen about 50 minutes. From Ghent, the train ride to Bruges takes only 25 minutes.

For more information about the trains in Belgium, check the Belgian Public Transport guide: https://www.belgiumtravel.info/en/belgium-public-transport-guide/

Visit Ghent by Car

If you plan on visiting Ghent by car, please keep in mind that motorized vehicles are banned in a large part of the city. In addition there is also a LEZ (Low Emission Zone) in place, preventing access of older, unregistered combustion engine cars. Therefore it is best to park your car at one of the many Park & Rides on the outskirts of the city and use the free shuttle busses from there.

Car travelers who wish to spend the night in Ghent should always inform about the traffic restrictions, LEZ-Zone and parking possibilities of their accommodation.

Getting around in Ghent

The historic city centre of Ghent can be easily explored on foot and is very pedestrian friendly. Locals also love to use the bike for getting around. The city has excellent cycling infrastructure with nearly 400km’s of designated cycling paths. Throughout the city there are several companies who offer rental bikes.

When arriving at the Ghent railway station, you can use the local public transport to reach your accommodation, which will cost you max. 3€. Alternatively you can also take a much more expensive taxi or Uber to reach your destination.

Public transport in Ghent

The busses and tram lines in Ghent are operated by De Lijn. Single Tickets cost 3€ and are valid for 60 minutes. Within this time period you can change lines unlimited. After the 60 minutes you can continue your ride towards your destination. If you need to change lines again, you need to buy a new ticket.

Where to stay in Ghent

Ghent has a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and tastes. From luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels, there is something for everyone. For a truly unique experience, consider staying in one of Ghent’s many historic buildings that have been converted into boutique hotels.

Ghent’s Food and Drink Scene

Ghent is known for its delicious food and drink, and there are many local specialties to try during your visit. Must-try dishes include stoverij, a hearty beef stew, and waterzooi, a creamy soup made with chicken or fish. Belgian chocolate is also a must-try, as Ghent has some of the best chocolatiers in the country. When it comes to dining out, there are many great restaurants and bars to choose from in Ghent, including the Michelin-starred Restaurant Horseele

Local specialties

Ghent has a variety of local specialties that are a must-try for any foodie. Some of the most famous local dishes include Waterzooi, a creamy soup made with chicken or fish, and Gentse Stoverij, a hearty beef stew made with beer and served with French fries. Other local delicacies include “Neuzekes” or “cuberdons”, a cone-shaped candy with a raspberry taste. Don’t miss the chance to sample these delicious specialties during your visit to Ghent.

Ghent Nightlife

Ghent is not only famous for its historical attractions, but also for its vibrant nightlife. From cozy bars to lively clubs, the city has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to have a few drinks with friends or dance the night away, Ghent has a great nightlife scene to explore.

Bars and Pubs in Ghent

If you’re looking for a relaxed night out, Ghent’s bars and pubs are the perfect option. There are many cozy and charming venues scattered throughout the city, where you can enjoy a wide variety of local and international beers, cocktails, and snacks. Some of the most popular bars and pubs in Ghent include the Dulle Griet, the Trollekelder, and the Dreupelkot.

Clubs and Music Venues in Ghent

For those who want to dance until the early hours of the morning, Ghent has plenty of clubs and music venues to choose from. From techno to indie, there is a variety of music genres to suit everyone’s taste. Some of the most popular clubs and music venues in Ghent include Kompass Klub, Charlatan, and Decadance.

Practical tips for visiting Ghent

Language : The official language spoken in Ghent is Dutch, but English and French are also widely spoken.
Currency : The currency in Ghent is the Euro.
Safety tips : Ghent is generally a safe city, but it’s always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and take basic safety precautions.

Ghent is a city that is rich in history, culture, and culinary delights. Whether you’re interested in exploring medieval castles and cathedrals or indulging in delicious Belgian chocolates and waffles, there is something for everyone in this charming city. With this guide, you’ll be able to make the most of your visit to Ghent and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Last Updated on 9 December 2023 by BertBeckers

Global Minds Ghent University – Short Research Stays (SRS) – Call 2024

This call for proposals is specifically tailored to researchers hailing from the Global South who aspire to undertake short-term research visits at Ghent University, ranging between 1 and 3 months. The primary objective of these research stays is to contribute to the advancement of sustainable development initiatives in the Global South.

As a visiting researcher at Ghent University, successful applicants will be granted a scholarship for the entire duration of their stay. Additionally, they will have access to office space and various facilities, including the university library, to support their research endeavours.

For further information regarding the call and the prerequisites for application, kindly refer to the detailed guidelines available:

It is imperative for applicants to secure a Ghent University promotor who will endorse their application. Should you lack existing connections with Ghent University, we encourage you to utilise their online research directory https://www.ugent.be/en/research/explorer/researchdirectory.htm to identify potential promotors. Subsequently, direct communication with the identified promotor will facilitate discussions regarding the feasibility of a research stay.

Swiss-SA Student Exchange Program: Advancing Antibacterial Research-University of Western Cape and University of Bern

xr:d:DAFgiQkJk8s:698,j:4927353062747902873,t:24011017

The Japanese Government (MEXT Scholarship) for 2025

Call for proposals: University of Missouri South Africa Education Programme 2024

Professor José Frantz and Professor Bård Mæland

UWC and VID University of Norway Forge Transformative Partnership

IMAGES

The must see places to visit in Ghent
Visit Ghent on a trip to Belgium
Visit Ghent on a trip to Belgium
Ghent travel
Must Read
Take a day trip to Ghent, one of the prettiest towns in Belgium. With a

VIDEO

GHENT Belgium
Belgium: Travel to Ghent
Walk around Ghent Belgium
Ghent, Belgium 🇧🇪. #travel #travelling #traveller #youtube #instatravel #adventure #shorts
Don't come to Ghent
5 Amazing Places to Visit in Belgium

COMMENTS

The ultimate guide to Ghent, Belgium
The Bakery When pastry chef Joost Arijs set up a chocolate shop in SoGo — Ghent's shopping district — in 2011, it was quickly named Belgium's best by restaurant guide Gault & Millau ...
Ghent travel
Ghent. Despite being one of Belgium's oldest cities, Ghent remains small enough to feel cosy but big enough to be a vibrant, relevant centre for trade and culture. There's a wealth of medieval and classical architecture here, contrasted by large post-industrial areas undergoing urban renewal that give Ghent a gritty-but-good industrial feel.
Ghent, more than a one night stay
Vibrant Ghent is well worth a weekend trip. It's ideal for a last-minute city trip as well. Quirky Ghent offers a fascinating cultural cocktail brimming with trendy, modern urban life. Ghent is a city where people enjoy life: a chilled-out place where anything goes and a city that feels human. Its friendly, welcoming people love the good life.
Your perfect Ghent itinerary for Belgium's most underrated city
Gent-Sint-Pieters is the main train station linking Ghent to Brussels, Antwerpen, and also Amsterdam. If you're on a budget, you can take Flixbus to Ghent from the Netherlands (Amsterdam) for less than lunch each way! (I paid 9 euros on this trip!) It's a short tram or taxi ride to the center or about a 30-minute walk.
Ultimate Travel Guide to Ghent
Ultimate Travel Guide to Ghent By Samantha King Published: 24 August, 2021 2 February, 2024 Updated: 2 February, 2024 Ghent, Belgium is a port city in the East Flanders region.
Ghent Travel Guide Resources & Trip Planning Info by Rick Steves
Ghent. Ghent doesn't ooze with cobbles and charm, like its rival Bruges — this is a living city, with an urban grittiness and a welcome splash of creative hipster funkiness. Explore its historic quarter, ogle the Van Eyck altarpiece in its massive cathedral, tour its impressive art and design museums, stroll its picturesque embankments, bask ...
The Complete Visitor's Guide to Ghent, Belgium
LAST UPDATED: 2/3/24 - Visitor's Guide to Ghent, Belgium. While France and Germany might get more accolades from travel publications, Belgium has every bit as much charm. In addition, the food is fantastic, and the people couldn't be any nicer. I simply fell in love with the country the moment I landed.
Weekend in Ghent
It's really easy and fast to travel from Brussels to Ghent by train. There is a direct intercity train (IC) that only takes 35 minutes from Brussels Central or Bruxelles-Midi station to Ghent (Sint-Pieters Station). The train ticket for one-way from Brussels to Ghent costs around 11€.
Ghent: A guide to Belgium's most charming city
The city of Ghent is located in the northwest of Belgium, at the confluence of two rivers, the Leie and the Schelde. Ghent has a perfect location. It is only 50 kilometers from Brussels, 50 kilometers from Bruges, 55 kilometers from Antwerp, and 65 kilometers from Ostend. You have the option to fly into 3 different airports when visiting Ghent.
Ghent
Ghent (Dutch: Gent, French: Gand) is a city in East Flanders in Belgium. Ghent is a city with a population of 265,000 in 2020, with rich history. At the same time, Ghent has a relatively high proportion of young people, and a significant seasonal student population. Ghent at night.
15 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Ghent
Belgium Travel Guide. 19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Belgium. 18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Brussels. ... Ghent is Belgium's star architectural tourist attraction, but unlike Bruges, it comes without the tour bus hordes. A walk through town on a summer's evening, when most of the important buildings are illuminated, is one of the ...
16 Memorable Things to Do in Ghent: The Gem of Belgium
6. Enjoy a the sights along Graslei & Korenlei. Arguably the most beautiful place in the city, the Graslei (Grass Quay) and Korenlei (Corn Quay) lie at the very heart of Ghent. These quays stretch along the Leie river with Graslei and its unique medieval buildings on the right bank, Korenlei along the left.
Beginner's guide to Ghent, Belgium
BY Martin Dickie 2 May 2022. Bruges and Brussels step aside; if you want to experience Belgium (and, by extension, Europe) in a gorgeously mediaeval microcosm, then get yourself to Ghent, home of tottering townhouses, a car-free cobbled Old Town, cool canalside drinkeries, and an uncommonly intact castle. Here's our get-the-most-out-of-it ...
Ghent Travel Guide
Ghent Travel guide Ghent is a compact, authentic city where the past and present co-exist in perfect balance. Walking through the city is like travelling through time: you turn the corner and just like that, you go from the fourteenth century to the twenty-first.
Travel Guide to Ghent, Belgium
A small city in Belgium, home to the Ghent Nose candy; a complete travel guide to Ghent.
Ghent travel guide
GHENT TRAVEL GUIDE. Welcome to our travel guide to Ghent page! Ghent is a wonderful city that we both adore. We've been there tons of times and still keep discovering new spots and hidden gems. Follow along for the best travel information about Ghent, Belgium!
A local's guide to Ghent, Belgium: artisanal beer, bargain vintage and
For anyone who loves techno and house, Kompass is a world-class club, a typical family-run Ghent affair, but one that attracts top DJs. Housed in an old factory with low ceilings, the atmosphere ...
Ghent Travel Guide
Ghent in March. Estimated hotel price. $135. 1 night at 3-star hotel. Most tourists visit Ghent around July and August, but there's no reason to discount September or May to June, when the crowds will be thinner and the weather should be fine. Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 0°F 15°F 30°F 45°F 60°F 75°F.
Ghent Walking Tour: A Self-Guided City Trail (Belgium)
Welcome to Ghent, a charming city in Belgium that offers a perfect blend of historical architecture, cultural landmarks, and a vibrant atmosphere. Ghent is known for its medieval charm, where cobblestone streets, picturesque canals, and centuries-old buildings create a unique ambiance that transports visitors back in time.
Ghent Walking Tour: A Self-Guided City Trail (Belgium)
Rovaniemi in Summer: DIY Trip Travel Guide Itinerary (5 Days or More) World Nomads Travel Insurance: Honest Explanation & Review (2024) ... (These two highways intersect to Ghent). By Train. Likewise, Belgium has a good train system and from the capital, Brussels, heading to Ghent will only take you 30 minutes. Depending on your location, you ...
Ghent travel guide
Discover the city centre: Walking around the city centre is definitely your best way to spend your time in Ghent.There are daily free walking tours, or you could book a guided tour.; Canal boat tour: A canal boat tour is a great way to see the city from a different perspective.Visitors can take a guided tour along the canals and learn about the city's history and architecture while enjoying ...
Ghent Belgium
Ghent Belgium in 4K. Short cinematic travel video showing the must see highlights of this amazing historic city. Includes the many canals, churches and the f...
Global Minds Ghent University
This call for proposals is specifically tailored to researchers hailing from the Global South who aspire to undertake short-term research visits at Ghent University, ranging between 1 and 3 months. The primary objective of these research stays is to contribute to the advancement of sustainable development initiatives in the Global South.

A guide to Ghent, Belgium's rebellious, unsung city

What to see and do

Where to eat in Ghent

Where to go shopping

After hours

Like a local

Where to stay in Ghent

Related Topics

You May Also Like

The essential guide to visiting San Diego

A guide to Gdansk, Poland's regenerated maritime city

A guide to plant-based dining in Birmingham

A city guide to Bergamo, Italy

A guide to Antwerp, Belgium's striking second city

A family city guide to London

A guide to Aberdeen, Scotland's surprising 'Granite City' by the sea

History & Culture

Your next trip starts here

Attractions

Latest stories from Ghent

Book popular activities in Ghent

Ghent, more than a one night stay

What can you currently do in Ghent?

Why choose Ghent for a weekend trip?

Mystic Lamb, lights and delicacies!

The people of Ghent, a breed apart

CityCard: experience Ghent to the full!

Eat & Drink

Overnight stay

Ghent: budget-friendly

Sustainable tourism: pure Ghent

Ghent, great fun for little dragons

Not-to-be-missed in Ghent

Shopping in Ghent, so much fun

Ghent museums

Ghent, city of beer

Your perfect Ghent itinerary for Belgium’s most underrated city

One day in Ghent: Classic Ghent

Step into Groot Vleeshuis

Gravensteen

Watch the sunset along the river

Dinner in Patershol

Beers (or music!)

Frites after dark at Ghent’s best frites bar*

Second day in Ghent

Enjoy the Ghent altarpiece without the crowds

Climb the Belfry of Ghent

Sample Gent’s world-famous noses, mustard, and artisanal chocolate

Enjoy Graffiti Street

Browse for books and fun souvenirs

Have you been to Ghent? Let me know your favorite things to do in Ghent!

About Karen Turner

Reader Interactions

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Ultimate Travel Guide to Ghent

Plan your trip?

How to get to Ghent

What to expect in Ghent

How to get around Ghent

The best time to visit Ghent

Things to do in Ghent

Admire Saint Bavo’s Cathedral

Visit the Mystic Lamb

Learn about the Gravensteen Castle

Explore the Belfry of Ghent

Get to know Ghent at STAM

See Saint Nicholas’ Church

Hop aboard the water tram

Relax at Citadelpark

What to eat in Ghent

Where to stay in Ghent

Tours to do in Ghent

Day trips from Ghent

Recommended tours in Ghent

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

Similar Posts

Luxury Guide To Brussels

Budget guide for Bruges

The Ultimate Guide to Leuven

17 Things to do in Ghent – That People Actually Do!