ghent belgium tourist attractions

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.

See also: Where to Stay 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

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.

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.

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 Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Medieval Bruges : Tourists who appreciate Ghent's architecture will fall in love with the medieval town of Bruges , a picture-perfect combination of historic buildings and canals. The romantic ambience is everywhere, with narrow streets and flower-lined waterways perfect for a long stroll. Those visiting the city have plenty of day trip options from Bruges , including the nearby beach towns like the ritzy Knokke-Heist resort area or family-friendly Blankenberge , or the nature-lover's Zwin Nature Park .

Flanders' Cultural Center : The center of Dutch-speaking Belgium is Antwerp , a northern city that is well-known for its port, historic architecture, and arts community. Antwerp is home to several excellent art museums, as well as some beautiful churches, most notably the Gothic Cathedral of Our Lady . Those staying in the city will have plenty to do, but tourists who want to explore can enjoy a good range of day trips from Antwerp to nearby destinations like medieval Mechelen , Fort Breendonk in Willebrook , Aalst , and picturesque Dendermonde .

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Home » Travel Guides » Belgium » 15 Best Things to Do in Ghent (Belgium)

15 Best Things to Do in Ghent (Belgium)

Locals and tourists alike love Ghent. What’s not to love in the city after all, there is great art, great food and it is one of the countries best kept secrets. Ghent still feels fairly small compared to other cities in Europe and despite being a great place for a break, it is not overrun by tourists and sightseers.

Ghent is a perfect blend of industry and medieval architecture which will appease every travellers European city palette. Nightlife and food are also good with some truly great food being served at a range of restaurants that will suit all budgets. Beer is king in Belgium and Ghent is home to the famous Gruut beer.

Here are the 15 best things to do in Ghent !

1. Be Awestruck By Gravensteen

Quite probably the most breathtaking sight in Ghent, Gravensteen is a 12th Century castle built for the count of Flanders. The castle has been sensationally restored to all its former glory after operating for a short time as a cotton mill.

The interior may somewhat lack furnishings but makes up for this with a guillotine and suits of armor. If you want to see what the castle was like all those years ago, there is a slightly silly costume drama set in many of the castles rooms and battlements.

For the best photo of the castle from afar, try St Widostraat.

2. Adore the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb

The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb is thought to be one of the world’s earliest oil paintings and dates back to the early 15th Century. Huge queues to see the work are common and like the Mona Lisa, the history of the painting is much more fascinating than the work itself.

The history of the painting includes an Austrian Emperor “clothing” the nude Adam and Eve as well as a period of time where the work was stolen and hidden in a salt mine.

The painting is open year round for viewings and is almost returned to its former glory although one stolen panel remains missing to this day.

3. See Fine Art at the MSK (Museum of Fine Arts)

The MSK art gallery is housed in what looks much like an Ancient Greek temple. The artwork will soon remind you that you are in fact still in Belgium however due to the great collection of works from Belgian and Low Counties artists.

The works range from as early as the 14th century up until the 20th century and English language notes are available for each piece.

The permanent collections are constantly backed up by a series of notable temporary exhibits.

• 4.  Eat out in Patershol

A well hidden home of many great restaurants, Patershol is the former location of the leather tradesmen in Ghent.

The winding cobbled lanes and houses haven’t much changed from this time and are a great way to experience what Ghent was like many years ago.

All that exploring is bound to make you hungry and, luckily, Patershol is home to a number of good restaurants including t’ Klaverblad which serves French cuisine and is arguably the best place to eat in all of Ghent.

5. Marvel at the Sint-Pietersabdij Abbey

One of the biggest abbeys in all of Belgium, the St Pietersabdij was the centre of Ghent for a long time and the city began to grow outwards from the abbey.

The orchards and gardens are free to explore and are a great place to be on a summer’s day. The abbey itself boats an impressive mural in what was once the monk’s refectory and a state-of-the-art video tour lasting an hour and a half.

If you are rushed you can easily select just a few points from the tour before moving on.

6. See the St Baafskathedraal

This cathedral is the home of the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb mentioned earlier but it also deserves a visits for its own merits. The building itself is an imposing structure made from an unusual blend of stone and brick with some stunning stained glass windows thrown into the mix.

The mural in the crypts of the building are well worth seeing as is the original Rubens artwork on display.

If you fancy a look at the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb but don’t fancy queuing, there is a print of the work on display in chapel 30.

7. Watch Some Home Movies at Huis van Alijn

This house was formerly a children’s hospice. It has since been restored and is a great museum detailing what life was like in the city between the end of the 18th century to the early 20th century.

Within the museum, there are old shops to explore with accurate period interiors. There are also old wedding photos and family movies which prove to be surprisingly emotional.

You will find that not all of the exhibits are in English but they are straightforward and don’t really require an explanation.

8. See a Dragon at the Belfort

Ghent may not be from a Game of Thrones novel but is still has its own dragon. The belfry dates back to the 14th century and has a dragon sat atop of the tower in weathervane form.

If you want to make the climb to the top you will see two more dragons whilst on your way. There is also an exhibition of bell making but the real attraction for most people that visit the Belfort is the view from the top of the tower. Make sure to see Ghent’s cloth hall whilst you are here.

The hall began construction in the mid 15th century but was not completed until 1903.

9. Grab a coffee from Mokabon

Ignore the bold, brand-new Starbucks and head into Mokabon, the cosy coffee house that is as they were and as they should be.

The cafe is one of the best places to chill out in the city with good snacks and great coffee. The coffee on offer is classic Belgian fare with espresso topped with whipped cream.

Ignore the Starbucks and treat yourself to a proper Belgian coffee.

10. Learn at the Museum of Industry

The Museum of Industry is the place to go if you want to learn about the history of industry in Ghent. The museum is set in a former mill-building (what better place to learn about industry in Belgium) and covers five floors.

Whilst travelling through 250 years worth of industry, you will see and learn about plenty of machinery, which is even still operated on certain days of the week. It is deafeningly loud but luckily earplugs are provided!

As an added bonus, there are great views of the city from the building’s top floor.

11. Learn some more at STAM

If you have room for more learning and knowledge then a visit to STAM is an absolute must. STAM explores Ghent’s history and pre-history by rewinding 70,000 years into the past.

The museum is another old building that has found a new use, formerly it was a nunnery. Interactive exhibits show what Ghent has looked like throughout various periods of time and how the city has evolved.

As if 70,000 years worth of history wasn’t enough, the museum even gives you the chance to look into the future of the city.

12. Shop at the Vrijdagmarkt

This square, which gets its name from the weekly market that still takes place every Friday, was once also the city’s spot for public executions and important city meetings.

The cafes dotted around the square all provide great vantage points for admiring the statue of Ghent’s famous leader, Artevelde who was prominently anti-French.

Nearby is a so-called super cannon, which due to its rather large 250kg balls, was one of the biggest siege cannons in all of the middle ages.

13. Stadhuis

Even in Ghent, a city with many beautiful buildings, this building stands out. The Stadhuis, or city hall, took almost a century to build before it was finally completed in 1600.

The architecture is flamboyant and Gothic the building is often referred to as the building with many faces. The rooms of the interior are varied in style but all are stunningly decorated and preserved.

The hall is obviously a popular spot for weddings but tourist access is limited. Hour long tours begin at the tourist office and cost 5 euros per person.

14. Try some Ghent Cuisine

The food in Ghent, like in all of Belgium’s big cities, is diverse and tasty. There is truly something for everybody and food lovers will fell right at home.

Some traditional Belgium treats to try are Gruut Beer, the brewery is based in Ghent and is a great introduction to Belgium beer, Stoverij, a hearty Belgian beef stew and Waterzooi, a fish or chicken stew dating back to the middle ages.

If you have a sweet tooth then Belgium is also a great place for chocolate and Ghent is arguably the best of the best. Be sure to try pralines before you leave the city.

15. Hop onto a water tram

For a truly different way of seeing the city, why not try the Ghent’s hop on hop off water tram. There are six stops to embark from or disembark to including the Castle of the Counts and St Peters Abbey.

Not only does the tram get you from A to B but it is a unique way to see some of the city’s sights while you are at it.

As an added bonus, if you buy the Ghent City Card, travel on the water tram is included and you can use it as much as you like for no further cost.

15 Best Things to Do in Ghent (Belgium):

• Be Awestruck By Gravensteen
• Adore the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb
• See Fine Art at the MSK (Museum of Fine Arts)
• Marvel at the Sint-Pietersabdij Abbey
• See the St Baafskathedraal
• Watch Some Home Movies at Huis van Alijn
• See a Dragon at the Belfort
• Grab a coffee from Mokabon
• Learn at the Museum of Industry
• Learn some more at STAM
• Shop at the Vrijdagmarkt
• Try some Ghent Cuisine
• Hop onto a water tram

• 20 Must Visit Attractions In...

20 Must-Visit Attractions in Ghent

The ancient city of Ghent has built up quite the gaggle of attractions through the ages, ranging from charming medieval quarters to contemporary architectural masterpieces. Here are 20 of the canal city’s must-visit spots, including idyllic overgrown ruins and the most coveted artwork of all time.

1. patershol.

Candy Store

Despite its name, the Patershol or ‘Monks’ Hole’ is as picturesque a neighbourhood as they come. Its charming lanes criss-cross each other like cobwebs and its historic houses are occupied by cozy restaurants, galleries and an old-fashioned candy store.

Patershol, Ghent, Belgium

Patershol | courtesy of Visit Ghent

2. Confectionery Temmerman

Old-fashioned confectionery Temmerman inside the Patershol quarter sports a 17th-century Baroque façade on the outside, and a candy paradise inside. Traditional Ghent sweets with wacky names are their bread and butter.

Kraanlei 79, Ghent, Belgium

Confectionary Temmerman | courtesy of Visit Ghent

3. Castle of Counts

This 12th-century fortress in the middle of the old city was erected as a show of strength by Count Filips of the Elzas to counter the grand houses being built by Ghent’s rich patricians. When it came to restorations in the 19th century, the historical records were approached with the most romantic interpretation possible and the castle now has turrets galore. Inside, a gloomy atmosphere is bolstered further by a visit to the torture chambers in the cellars.

Sint-Veerleplein 11, Ghent, Belgium

Castle of Counts | courtesy of Visit Ghent

4. St. Bavo’s Cathedral

Cathedral, Church

5. House of Alijn

Museum, Shop

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6. St. Bavo’s Abbey ruins

7. St. Peter’s Abbey

It still boasts an authentic monks’ dining hall with impressive ceiling fresco and regularly hosts prestigious exhibits, but the biggest appeal of St. Peter’s is its terraced gardens. Hidden from view by the abbey’s monumental walls, they hold white-blossomed fruit trees, vineyards and a herb garden.

Sint-Petersabdij, Ghent, Belgium

St. Peter’s Abbey gardens | courtesy of Visit Ghent

8. Dulle Griet canon

On a little waterside square not far from the Vrijdagmarkt sits a massive wrought iron canon in fiery red. Her name is Dulle Griet, after an iconic folk figure of the Lower Countries, but she also goes by the name ‘Red Devil’. At 12,500 tons at the moment of creation around the 1430s, this was one of Europe’s most frightening medieval weapons. It was eventually discovered that she had more bravado than substance though; the canon was fired only once, in a clash with the Spaniards, and was immediately found to be faulty when the cannonball fell lifelessly to the ground.

Grootkanonplein 5, Ghent, Belgium

Dulle Griet canon | © FaceMePLS / Flickr

9. City Pavilion

The City Pavilion by Robbrecht en Daem and Marie-José Van Hee is a terrific example of a contemporary structure that’s been successfully integrated in a historical environment. Although almost oversized, the timber market hall on concrete feet doesn’t feel intrusive to the view of Ghent’s Belfry, nor to any of the surrounding old buildings. If anything, its wood and lit-up interior ceiling lend the area extra warmth.

Poeljemarkt, Ghent, Belgium

City Pavilion | courtesy of Visit Ghent

10. S.M.A.K.

Curator for the S.M.A.K. Museum and Flemish art pope Jan Hoet brought notoriety to Ghent in 1986 when he took an exhibit outside of museum walls to showcase works in tens of private homes in the city. Since then the S.M.A.K. has come to hold the largest collection of contemporary art in Belgium, and while Hoet may be gone, bold choices remain part of its DNA.

Jan Hoetplein 1, Ghent, Belgium

S.M.A.K. | courtesy of Visit Ghent

11. Kouter Flower Market

Food Kiosk, Market

There is nothing better to start a Sunday in Ghent off the right way than a stroll over the flower-filled Kouter market, a city tradition that reaches back centuries. A brass band will often play on the ornate 19th-century gazebo in the middle of the square, and oysters and champagne are sold from another other picture kiosk.

Kouter, Ghent, Belgium

Sunday flower market on the Kouter | courtesy of Visit Ghent

12. De Vooruit

Much treasured by locals in both the past and the present, all-around welcoming hub De Vooruit was originally built to be a socialist palace. Today the renovated monumental building holds film screenings, dance classes, readings, plays, etc. A drink or bite in its grand café or on its recently installed floating terraces is a Ghent must.

Sint-Pietersnieuwstraat 23, Ghent, Belgium

De Vooruit | courtesy of Visit Ghent

13. De Krook

As the latest architectural masterpiece to be planted in Ghent, the wood-panelled De Krook has been welcomed with open arms. It replaces a formerly seedier part of town with all the comforts and benefits of a contemporary public library.

Miriam Makebaplein 1, Ghent, Belgium

De Krook | © Karen Borghouts / courtesy of Visit Ghent

14. Appelbrug and Appelbrugparkje

Bridge, Museum, Park

Sitting snug between a fine dining restaurant and a Mediterranean lunch place across from the Design Museum, the small Appelbrug Park on the waterside is one of Ghent’s most idyllic spots. Standing on the new Appelbrug pedestrian bridge leading to Vismarkt square you’ve got a great view of the historical buildings on the other side of the Leie such as the old fishing mines and meat halls.

Jan Breydelstraat 14, Ghent, Belgium

Appelbrugparkje | courtesy of Visit Ghent

15. Graffitistraatje

Nobody calls the Werregarenstraat by its actual name. The alley is covered top to bottom in legal graffiti drawings, but don’t get too attached when you see one you like. That masterpiece you spotted the other day might well have been covered up by another one the next time you visit.

Werregarenstraat, Ghent, Belgium

Graffiti alley | © Ella Mullins / Flickr

16. ’t Dreupelkot

‘t Dreupelkot is a traditional Flemish jenever (Dutch gin) bar, run by true connoisseur Pol for over 30 years. More than 50 of his brews are homemade, and after a couple of shots of his pepper variant the brown bar doesn’t seem half as shabby anymore.

Groentenmarkt 12, Ghent, Belgium

‘t Dreupelkot | courtesy of Visit Ghent | Courtesy of Visit Ghent

17. Groentenmarkt

Market, Belgian

18. City Hall

Half Italian palazzo and half ornate Gothic palace, Ghent’s City Hall is one confusing public building. Its popular Wedding Chapel is a singular thing of beauty though, boasting beautiful stained-glass windows.

Botermarkt 1, Ghent, Belgium

Ghent City Hall | © Adufilms / Pixabay | © Adufilms / Pixabay

Besides its geometric courtyard garden and its stately façades, this former Dominican friary is worth a visit thanks to its permanent exhibit: a collection of life-sized photos of the oeuvre of fantastical early Netherlandish painter Hïeronymus Bosch.

Onderbergen 1, Ghent, Belgium

Pand | courtesy of Visit Ghent

20. Design Museum

Building, Museum

Ghent’s Design Museum finds itself in a building worthy of its purpose. In a gorgeous 18th-century patrician house with contemporary expansion, a collection of about 22,000 objects is used to present an extensive overview of the development of international design. Highlights include a rich assortment of Art Nouveau and Art Deco items.

Jan Breydelstraat 5, Ghent, Belgium

Design Museum | courtesy of Visit Ghent

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One Day in Ghent, Belgium: The 14 Best Things To Do

Last Updated on: 13th May 2024, 10:24 am

Nestled in the heart of Flemish-speaking Belgium,  Ghent is a gorgeous city with a rich historical heritage alongside a quirky, modern spirit. Ghent has been overshadowed in recent years by its more popular Belgian counterparts like Antwerp and Bruges.

Ghent is a hidden gem of Europe waiting to be discovered. Ghent has some of the most beautiful Cathedrals in Europe and makes a perfect day trip for those  staying in Brussels  – so here is what to do on a day trip spending one day in Ghent!

Planning a Last-Minute Trip to Ghent? We’ve Got You Covered! 🏨 Great Hotels for an Overnight in Ghent ✈︎ The Ghent Marriot Hotel (Overlooking the main canal in Ghent, perfectly central) $$$ ✈︎ Hotel Chamade (Two blocks from train station, right by tram, comfortable) $$ ✈︎ Monasterium PoortAckere ( Converted Monastery ! Older hotel, some rooms with ensuite) $-$$ 🛵 Best Activities and Tours in Ghent ✈︎ 50-Minute Guided Boat Tour on Canals (My favorite activity in Ghent! Great photo opportunities.) ✈︎ Small Group Chocolate Tour (Highly-rated, Ghent is a center of chocolate in Belgium!) ✈︎ Day-Tour from Brussels: Bruges and Ghent (A guided tour to see two of Belgium’s best cities!) 💶 Travel Insurance ✈︎ Do not forget to purchase comprehensive travel insurance before you leave for Barcelona! I use SafetyWing Travel Insurance and have always been very happy with their service and pricing!

Discovering Ghent in One Day

Ghent is very easy to get to from Brussels. It’s a great idea to stay in Brussels to be able to make wonderful day trips to areas like Bruges and Antwerp, which you can easily visit in one day!

Unlike Bruges and Antwerp above, though, Ghent isn’t much to look at when you first pull into the train station – but just wait! Walk into its historic town center and  Ghent is a remarkably picturesque city .

Ghent is known all over Belgium for its historic significance, incredible art, and culinary delights. Inside Ghent you’ll find a stunning  medieval castle , winding canals, religious art, and endless bridges. 

Even if you only have one day in Ghent – Ghent is absolutely worth visiting and should not be missed on your trip to Belgium. 

Exploring  Ghent in one day  is a challenge, but is absolutely possible! I traveled to Ghent from Leuven – which is even further than Brussels – and spent an amazing day in this  Unesco World Heritage Site  city. There are plenty of  things to do in Ghent , so follow this itinerary to make the most of Ghent in one day and discover the most amazing things to do in Ghent, Belgium. 

Traveling to Ghent for a Day Trip 

The best way to get around Belgium is  by train . Belgium’s train system is efficient and while not the cheapest in Europe it is still relatively inexpensive. You can  easily buy tickets online  per route so you can use them at any time of day. 

If you are  staying in Brussels during your trip to Belgium , travel from  Brussels to Ghent  takes less than an hour and is very pleasant. 

When you arrive in Ghent, at the Gent-Sint-Pieters Train Station, you might be surprised it doesn’t exactly look like all the tourist photos below! Ghent is a large city and the canals and tiered guild houses that made it a UNESCO World Heritage Site are only in the Historic Center.

It’s at least a  20-minute walk  from Ghent Train Station to the city center. A better idea? One of my best Ghent travel tips is to  take the buses or trams! 

If you buy a Ghent Card for the day, free public transportation comes pre-loaded onto it. If you are on your own, just download the  DeLijn app   onto your phone and you can easily by a public transport day pass or individual tickets for 2.50 Euro each. 

Just be careful and don’t get on the tram going the wrong way like I did! I got quite the unexpected tour of Ghent.  🤦🏽‍♀️

One Day In Ghent: 14 Best Things To Do in Ghent

Ghent has so much to do, and with only  one day in Ghent  you are going to want to start early to have enough time! I advise trying to arrive at the Historic Center around 9 am.

It’s easy to grab breakfast at any train station in Belgium to enjoy on the train then you can start your day fueled and ready to go! Follow this  Ghent itinerary  to make the most of your one day in Ghent! 

Morning in Ghent: Take Canal Tour and Visit Gravensteen Castle

1. Take a Canal Tour in Ghent

One of the top things to do in Ghent is to take a boat tour through Ghent’s gorgeous canals! The  best time to take a canal tour is the morning  for two reasons: the light is gorgeous for photographs and a canal tour will give you a great orientation to Ghent. You can also beat the crowds in the morning – which is always a plus! 

On your guided tour of the canals in Ghent, you will not only see the highlights of the city centre by boat ride, but also get a little further into the “real” Ghent where people live and work and go to school. You’ll pass truly beautiful buildings like the new Ghent library and your local guide will point out a lot of quirky, fun houses and share a lot about the city’s history. 

There are many  wonderful boat tours in Ghent   to choose from. To make sure you get a seat I recommend  booking ahead of time online .

If you want to play things by ear for your Ghent day trip, you can always purchase at the kiosks near where the boats leave from, at  Groentenmarkt,  at the Vleeshuisbrug which is a short walk from the main historical city.

Most canal tours cost between 8 and 10 Euro per adult and can be experienced in different languages (English is almost always offered!). The different companies offer slightly different types of boats and length of tour, but they are all great options I honestly wouldn’t spend too much energy on which is best and go with what fits in your schedule and budget. 

2. Take a Free Walking Tour of Ghent

Like so many cities in Europe, there are plenty of options for so-called “Free Walking Tours” of Ghent. If you prefer to keep your feet on dry land or are interested in a deeper historical exploration of Ghent, a walking tour is a great way to start your Ghent day trip. 

Most likely, with only one day in Ghent , you won’t have time to do a canal tour  and  a walking tour – so you can choose which you prefer. 

There are a number of companies providing Free Walking Tours of Ghent – perhaps the best known is  Legends of Ghent  which provides a daily tour at 10:30 am (that goes until 1:30 so be prepared for lots of walking!), a nighttime tour if you do  stay in Ghent overnight , and even a tasting tour – yum!   

Remember – Free Walking Tours in Europe aren’t, technically, supposed to be completely free and it’s customary to generously tip your guide. 

3. Explore Gravensteen Castle, the Castle of the Counts

Gravensteen Castle, which translates to “ Castle of the Counts ,” is an incredible medieval fortress constructed in the late 12th century. Gravensteen was built during the reign of  Philip of Alsace,  the Count of Flanders and throughout the Middle Ages it served as a residence for the Counts of Flanders. It’s a prime example of medieval architecture in Belgium and frankly one of the coolest castles you can visit in all of Europe! 

Over the centuries, Gravensteen witnessed a huge number of historical events, including battles, sieges, and political developments. Gravensteen also played an important role in the many conflicts between the Counts of Flanders and the citizens of Ghent over the years. 

In the 19th century, sadly Gravensteen was falling apart, and there were discussions about demolishing the castle in Ghent. However, it was eventually  restored in the 19th and 20th centuries,  preserving its historical significance and allowing it to be open to the public.

Today you can visit Gravensteel Castle and stroll along its medieval towers. You can buy your  ticket online here  or at the gate.  Do not forget the audio guide!  It’s wonderful and well worth it 

You also have the option to climb the battlements for panoramic views over Ghent’s historical city! 

Lunch Time in Ghent: Savor Local Delicacies, and Wander Ghent’s Cobblestone Streets

4. Savor Ghent’s Culinary Treasures

Anyone visiting Ghent, even for only one day in Ghent, needs to take time to enjoy the local Belgian cuisine! There are lots of great restaurants in Ghent, but wherever you go make sure to try local delicacies such as Ghentse Waterzooi (creamy stew), Belgian fries with their delicious sauces, and Belgian Waffles . And, of course, don’t forget about having a good old Belgian Beer along with it all! 

For a quicker meal, but utterly delicious, stop by Soup’r – a little restaurant that serves amazing soups with tons of accoutrements, as well as sandwiches on the most delicious bread. It’s at Sint-Niklaastraat 9 – a stone’s throw away from the canals and cathedrals of Ghent. 

5. Sit by Ghent’s canals like a local

One of the best things to do in Ghent is to take whatever Belgian foods you order and sit by the canals! There are a few lovely restaurants right along the canal in Ghent if you’re looking for more sit-down fare, but for to-go foods in Ghent, it’s great to have a picnic by the canal.

It will be easy to spot where to do this because all the students and locals enjoy sitting by the canals during lunch hour and afternoon! It’s delightful to watch the boats go by and get an up-close sense of daily life in Ghent this way! 

6. Climb the Belfry of Ghent, Ghent’s Bell Tower

The Belfry Tower in Ghent is located near two of Ghent’s major churches, Saint Bavo’s Cathedral and Saint Nicholas’ Church. The Ghent Belfry was originally built in the 14th century when it was part of the city’s cloth hall and served as a symbol of Ghent’s prosperity and autonomy during medieval times.

 The Belfry of Ghent is part of a group of belfries in the Flanders region of Belgium, which were prominent structures in medieval cities.for the best views over the historic city of Ghent!  Ghent’s Belfry is one of the tallest belfry in the region and is a great spot for the best views over Ghent. 

You can buy your ticket to the Ghent Belfry online to save time, or when you get there. As of 2023, a regular adult ticket costs 11 Euro, with discounts for young persons and students. 

7. Walk up the Botermarkt Street

​Very near Ghent’s Bell Tower is Botermarkt Street. This is the old market of Ghent. Here you can see Ghent’s (somewhat controversial) Stadshal – a modern recreation of Ghent’s rooftops.

You can also see Ghent’s Stadhuis – the beautiful town hall with amazing carvings all along it! (It doesn’t quite beat the one in Leuven though – which is one of the most beautiful buildings in all of Belgium!) 

Afternoon: Ghent’s Cathedrals and Ghent’s Museums

You can’t go to Ghent, even for one day, without visiting at least one of Ghent’s beautiful and famous churches.

With only one day in Ghent, I advise you to choose one Cathedral to visit.

Of course, I recommend Saint Bavo Cathedral for the Van Eyck Altarpiece “Adoration of the Mystic Lamb” but Saint Michael’s Church and St Nicholas Church are wonderful choices as well! If you have time I highly recommend you visit one of the  Museums in Ghent.  

8. Visit St. Bavo’s Cathedral and the Van Eyck Altarpiece 

Aside from being one of the largest and most stunningly beautiful  Cathedrals in Europe , St Bavo’s Cathedral is one of the most famous and storied pieces of religious art in the world: the Van Eyck Altarpiece , also called the ‘Adoration of the Mystic Lamb.’ This is truly one of the most incredible pieces of art I’ve ever seen and is well worth the admission price to see – it’s also one of the biggest tourist attractions in all of Belgium!

Aside from simply being stunningly detailed and symbolic, the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb is known as the most stolen painting in history! 

Created by the Flemish artists Jan van Eyck and his brother Hubert van Eyck, first the Ghent Altarpiece was taken during the  French Revolution in 1794  and briefly displayed in the Louvre before being returned to Belgium.

The worst blow came in 1934 when the lower left panel, called the Just Judges, was stolen from the Van Eyck Altarpiece overnight – it has never been recovered but many Belgians and Art Historians dream of being the one to find it! There is a copy in place today – but honestly it’s just not nearly as incredible as Van Eyck’s original work. 

Later the Nazi’s looted the Ghent Altarpiece in 1942, and it was finally recovered by Allied Forces in 1945. 

​St. Bavo’s Cathedral itself is a wonderful example of gothic architecture with beautiful stained glass windows and a soaring nave. Don’t miss some of the other art treasures inside, such as paintings by Rubens!

9. Visit St. Michael’s Church

St. Michael’s Church is another gorgeous Gothic Cathedral in Ghent that dates back to the 10th century when it was founded by Bishop Notger of Liège. The original church was constructed in the Romanesque style, and fragments of this early structure can still be seen in the church today.

In the 13th century, the church underwent significant renovations and was transformed into the Gothic style. 

St. Michael’s Church is known for its impressive Gothic architecture , with soaring vaulted ceilings and beautiful stained glass windows. It’s also known for the art inside, including a magnificent Baroque high altar and a carved pulpit. The Ghent Altarpiece was originally housed in Saint Michael’s Church before being moved to Saint Bavo’s Cathedral.

You can find St. Michael’s Church just past St. Michael’s Bridge near one of the nicest areas of canals in Ghent – the bridge offers a beautiful view of the church and some of the famous guildhouses in Ghent. 

Even if you only have one day in Ghent, I recommend popping inside St. Michael’s Church at least briefly! 

10. Visit St. Nicholaschurch

St. Nicholaschurch is very near Ghent’s Belfry and St. Bavo’s Cathedral.  Saint Nicholas Church was started around 1200. It was commissioned by the local guilds and merchants who wanted a church that would rival St. Bavo’s Cathedral.

Like the other two main churches in Ghent, St. Nicholaschurch is built in the Gothic architectural style. In medival Ghent, St. Nicholas’ Church served as a place of worship for the city’s merchants and guild members. It was also used for important civic functions and meetings.

St. Nicholaschurch originally had a tall bell tower, but it was severely damaged in a storm in the 15th century and was subsequently shortened. The current tower is still impressive!

11. Visit MSK – Museum of Fine Arts in Ghent

Even with only one day in Ghent, the Museum of Fine Arts is a must-visit for art enthusiasts in Ghent! I recommend doing this towards the mid-late afternoon. In the summers you’ll beat the heat and this makes a great capstone to your day before heading back to Brussels or enjoying dinner by the canals of Ghent. 

The MSK Ghent has an impressive collection of old masterpieces, including works by famous artists such as Hieronymus Bosch, Pieter Bruegel the Elder, and Jan van Eyck.

For those who prefer more modern art, The Museum of Fine Arts in Ghent also features an extensive collection of 19th and 20th-century European art . including works by artists like James Ensor, Gustav Klimt, René Magritte. 

The best way to get to the MSK Museum in Ghent from the historic center is to hop on Tram 1 heading towards “Flanders Expo”. There is a stop on that line right in front of the art museum! Otherwise, it’s about a 20-25 minute walk from the city center. 

​12. Visit STAM – The Ghent City Museum

The Ghent City Museum is another of Ghent’s museums that is well worth visiting, even with only one day in Ghent!  This   museum in particular might warrant visiting in the morning, as it will give you a comprehensive overview of Ghent and its history. It’s also a nice capstone to your one day in Ghent! 

STAM offers a comprehensive overview of the history of Ghent. Using a combination of artifacts, multimedia displays, maps, and interactive installations,  the STAM tells the story of the city from its early origins to the present day. One of the coolest features of STAM is a large-scale model of the city of Ghent that allows visitors to explore the city’s layout and development over time.

Don’t miss that STAM offers excellent panoramic views of the city from its rooftop terrace! It’s a great place to relax for a few moments and enjoy a gorgeous view of Ghent, Belgium! 

13. Visit S.M.A.K. – The Municipal Museum of Contemporary Art in Ghent

For those who prefer more contemporary art to historic art, Ghent is an amazing place for modern art! Not only is Ghent known for amazing street art (see below) but the SMAK Museum, or Museum of Contemporary Art in Ghent is world-renowned! 

S.M.A.K. boasts an extensive and diverse collection of contemporary artworks spanning a lot of media, including painting, sculpture, photography, video, and installation art. It’s particularly known for site-specific installations and contemporary art installations that engage with the museum’s architecture and spaces, providing visitors with immersive and unique experiences.

14. Explore Ghent’s Amazing Street Art Scene

​Ghent is a real hub in Belgium and in Europe for Street Art . You’ll have a chance to view some of the most famous pieces on your Canal Tour in the morning, and probably continue to explore Ghent’s Street Art throughout your day in Ghent! Major Belgian street artists like ROA, Strook, and Bue the Warrior all have famous murals in Ghent. 

Don’t forget to check out Werregarenstraatje (Graffiti Street) – a legal zone where artists are encouraged to express themselves. The Graffiti is always changing and gives a real contemporary pulse of the city and its art! 

Other Suggestions of Things To Do in Ghent

If you have more time in Ghent, or you are there on Sundays or Fridays, you should check out the  markets in Ghent. 

The Flower Market in Ghent is famous and is held on Sundays. It is held on the  Kouter  and you can immerse yourself in gorgeous flowers and plants of all varieties, while picking up some delicious Belgian street food delicacies. 

Sundays also boast a Book Market in Ghent on the Ajuinlei.

The Friday market is also famous and has lots of delicious local foods to try. It’s held on the square that shares its name: Vrijdagmarkt. 

Where to  Stay in Brussels  for a Day Trip to Ghent

If you’re planning to take a day trip to Ghent while you visit Belgium , and perhaps other great day trips in Belgium like a day trip to Leuven or Antwerp or – of course – Bruges, then you should definitely consider staying near one of Brussel’s main train stations.  This map shows the two main train stations in Brussels as well as some great accommodation options in Brussels!

Where to Stay in Ghent, Belgium

 You may choose to stay overnight in Ghent to give you more than one day in Ghent – since there’s so much to do! If you choose to do so, I recommend paying that little bit extra to stay in the historic center, near the canals, to fully embrace the beauty of Ghent by night and enjoy every minute of your trip to Ghent! 

Three great hotel options in Ghent, Belgium at different budget points are:

1898 The Post ($$$) is perhaps the best hotel in Ghent right in the historic center! It’s such a beautiful property and would make an amazing treat after your day in Ghent!

At a more budget price, the B&B Petit Prince is a highly-rated hotel in Ghent that combines comfort with being a bit more budget-friendly!

You can also choose to stay in a converted Monastery in Ghent! The Monasterium PoortAckere is an older property but with gorgeous architecture and is perfect for spiritual travelers (all are welcome of course!).

Enjoy your One Day in Ghent! 

There are so many highlights of a day in Ghent it’s hard to summarize them, but Ghent is really a must-see city in Belgium for its art, castle, churches, and romantic canal atmosphere!

It’s so easy to get to Ghent from Belgium on the train that everyone should really make sure they have at least one day to spend in Ghent on their Belgium Itinerary! 

Of course, with any list of suggested activities – you can and should always adapt this list to fit  your  interests – whether that’s culture, food, art, or just enjoying the local atmosphere. However, you spend your day in Ghent, soak up every moment in this truly charming Belgian city! 

This post may contain affiliate links. That means I earn a small commission for products or services mentioned on this site. As always, all opinions remain my own.

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20+ Unique and Fun Things to do in Ghent, Belgium

Last Updated: April 15, 2021

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Wondering what to do in Ghent, Belgium? In this article, I’m sharing all my top tips for unique things to do in Ghent, along with hidden gems and quirky sights you won’t find anywhere else in the world. Enjoy!

I’ve made it no secret that I’m low-key obsessed with Belgium , a country that I consider among the most underrated in Europe.

And if I had to pick an underdog among underdogs, it may just be the vibrant city of Ghent, the capital of East Flanders and the third biggest city in Belgium just behind Brussels and Antwerp.

What‘s so special about Ghent exactly?

Well, how many places allow you to be a time traveler, beer connoisseur, art snob, and quirky hipster all at once?

(I hope you don’t have a quick answer to that, otherwise I’d be deeply embarrassed)

In short: there are SO many awesome, fun, and unique things to do in Ghent that it’s impossible not to love this city. Add on a bit of hipster pride that it’s not overrun by fellow tourists and boom – you have a perfect city break.

No doubt, this will be place you’ll want to visit A-Ghent as soon as possible, so here’s a list of what to do in Ghent during your visit, whether it’s your first or your tenth.

The Top Touristy Things To Do In Ghent

Let’s start with the touristy must-dos – the top Ghent attractions that are (in my opinion) actually worth it!

Take a Canal Tour

Much like in other canal-rich cities like Amsterdam or Bruges , taking a joy ride along Ghent’s scenic canals is a very worthwhile experience in the name of both history and… laziness.

After all, Ghent’s waterways are deeply intwined with the city’s lengthy history.

It was way back in the late middle ages that Ghent originated as a settlement here at the confluence of both the Scheldt and Leie rivers.

This strategic location is what allowed Ghent to become one of the wealthiest cities back in the day, and today you get to reap the rewards by gliding along the water and seeing all the pretty things they did with their money.

There’s a huge variety of cruise and boat services that are offered in Ghent, but I’d recommend booking an open-top one ( this one is less than 10 euros when you book online) because I did one that had a glass roof and it wasn’t great for photos.

Enjoy the view from St Michael’s Bridge

I love a good bridge, and I’m thrilled to report that St Michael’s Bridge (one of the top attractions in Ghent) actually lives up to the hype.

It’s here that you’ll get some of the prettiest views in the city (from the ground level anyway), with prime landmarks such as Ghent’s three main towers in view.

It’s also a wonderful place for very vain photo opportunities. Allow me to demonstrate.

Go Church Hopping

The grandeur and diversity of churches in Ghent are tough to beat. I know it doesn’t sound like the most thrilling experience in the world, but church hopping is actually one of the best things to do in Ghent.

Here’s why: there’s so many, and they’re all beyond cool.

From churches housing famous masterpieces to churches that have been converted in food/flea markets, Ghent has it all.

Here are a few Ghent churches to put on your list:

• Saint Bavo Cathedral: The oldest parish church in Ghent, and home to world-famous artworks including a Rubens painting and the infamous Ghent Altar piece (more on this later)
• St.Nicholas’ Church: A beautiful central church made of Tournai bluestone and constructed in the local Scheldt Gothic style 
• St Michael’s Church: A Roman Catholic church known for its Neo-Gothic interior and impressive Baroque paintings

Climb the Ghent Belfry

For a truly mindblowing view over Ghent, look no further than the Ghent Belfry, widely considered to be the best view in town.

Once upon a time (back in the early 15th century), the city’s top secrets were locked up here in a chest belonging to the Belfry’s safe. Today, this Ghent attraction is hardly a secret, but a visit is worth it, especially considering there’s a lift that takes you up after just a few flights of stairs.

TIP: Buy a skip the line ticket in advance here to avoid waiting.

Clamour Over the Ghent Altarpiece

Whether you’re fond of art, or not all, you’ll have likely heard about the Ghent Altarpiece, AKA the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb , a complex 15th-century painting comprised of 18 panels housed in Ghent’s Saint Bravo Cathedral.

Long story short: the Ghent altarpiece tells the story of the Bible with remarkable attention to detail, so much that it’s considered one of the most incredible masterpieces of all time.

And well, with that kind of popularity comes consequences… namely that it’s widely considered one of THE most stolen artworks in history.

Today, you can marvel at this masterpiece behind a swanky €30m glass case, a protective measure that will hopefully prevent any further thefts. With that kind of pricey case though, you can expect that visitors will need to cough up a bit of cash to see it up close, which is why admission tickets are 12.50 per adult.

Definitely a bit steep, but worthwhile if you’re keen to see a historic piece of art.

Visit Gravensteen Castle

Now it’s time to travel back to the 12th century, all the way to the early days of Gravensteen Castle, also known as the Castle of the Counts, one of Ghent’s top attractions.

What once harboured gripping screams of torture and functioned as a residence of royalty, prison, and even a cotton factory, today is an unmissable attraction, and one of the most popular touristy things to do in Ghent. And for a very good reason.

Inside these sturdy medieval walls, you’ll find museums revealing weapons and armour used extensively in ancient warfare as well as a unique collection of… torture items, if you’re into that.

PS: For an extra cherry on top of your torture war sundae, climb up the castle to soak in panoramic rooftop views of Ghent.

Wander Around Patershol

Ready for another lovely stroll? Welcome to Patershol – oft considered the coolest neighborhood in Ghent.

For nostalgic souls like me, a visit here is a must.

In Patershol (AKA the culinary heart of Ghent), you’ll find dreamy cobbled alleys packed with trendy bars and traditional eateries, plus plenty of great opportunities for shopping. It’s a lovely and charming escape from the more congested areas of Ghent, and a great place to grab a bite too.

Enjoy Ghent by Night

There’s a lot to do in Ghent during the day, no doubt, but avoid food coma-ing at your hotel right after dinner, because exploring Ghent by night is full of rewards.

After all, Ghent boasts an award-winning light plan that illuminates the city in such beautiful ways, they’ve genuinely won international accolades for it. Of course, the setting being lit isn’t too shabby either.

Through this plan, many of Ghent’s most important monuments are thoughtfully lit at night, which provides both extra safety and photogenic ~~ drama ~~, both things I’m a huge fan of.

Of course, besides prettiness, Ghent by night has a lot to offer.

Think countless nightclubs and DJs playing til the morning, buzzing pubs and cultural events, live jazz concerts, and much more waiting to be discovered. (That is, if you don’t fall into a food coma)

Explore Ghent’s Graffiti Street

When Ghent opened up an alley in its city centre to legal street art back in 1995, graffiti artists across the city responded enthusiastically, and it’s a tradition still preserved today on Werregarenstraat.

And while this alley (connecting the streets of Hoogpoort and Onderstraat) has become a touristy attraction in its own right, its original purpose wasn’t to attract tourists.

Rather, it was to prevent the most valued historic buildings and walls in Ghent from getting sprayed on, which apparently worked pretty well!

Since this Ghent attraction is right in the city center, it’s definitely worth a quick walkthrough, but don’t expect to spend too much time here or get your expectations up too high.

To be honest, there are way better murals and street art in the city (more on that later), but this is just one of those quintessential Ghent activities you should check off your list.

Follow the steps of Ghent’s oldest wall at St. Bavos’ Abbey Ruins

Can’t get enough of Ghent’s historic charm? Well then, head to Abbey Ruins of St.Bavos, where you can walk in the footsteps of some… seriously tumultuous history.

While much of the abbey is today in ruins, perfectly manicured shrubs and columns have been placed along the abbey’s former perimeter so you can get a feel for what it was like back in the day.

This abbey actually dates back to the 7th century, where it stood for almost 900 years until Charles V ordered its destruction in 1540.

Today, the ruins are open only a few days a week ( hours here ), but the altar is still sometimes used as a performance stage!

Visit a Cool Art Museum that Likely Has an Awesome Abbreviation

As Belgium’s resident “cool kid” (in my opinion anyway), it shouldn’t be surprising that Ghent is full of art galleries and museums, with an exciting and diverse selection for every interest.

Funnily enough, I noticed most of the museums have fun abbreviations too. Here are some museums to add to your list:

• SMAK: A must for unconventional and contemporary art lovers (particularly those who enjoy provocative exhibitions)
• STAM: The Ghent city museum, which tells the history of the city through gigantic aerial maps and multimedia

Stop by the controversial Stadshal (City Pavilion)

In the heart of Ghent’s historic center, you’ll find a striking modern pavilion known as the Stadshal (or City Pavilion in English).

This open canopy made of wood, concrete and glass has divided public opinion since its introduction in 2012, with many locals angry at the modern design placed just a stone’s throw from the city’s most historic monuments.

Love it or hate it, you have to admit it looks pretty cool:

Admire the architecture of the Ghent Sint-Pieters Station

While Antwerp is commonly praised for having the world’s most beautiful station, and Liège’s train station was featured in Guardians of the Galaxy, Ghent’s central station is worth some admiration too.

… I only wish someone had told me earlier, because I completely missed it, so don’t make the same mistake as me. Meanwhile, here’s a stock photo to convince you:

Beer and Foodie Things to do in Ghent

Beer and food are two wonderful reasons to visit Ghent, which has a reputation as one of Belgium’s top foodie cities. Here are some wonderfully fun things to do in Ghent that relate to food and drink.

Drink Beer From a Glass so Precious, They Take Your Shoe as a Deposit

Wait a minute. Your shoe as a deposit? Yep, welcome to Belgium!

Apparently, stealing glasses is such a thing in Belgium that certain bars have begun fighting back . Some have adopted electronic anti-theft tags, while others (such as Dulle Griet  in Ghent) have pulled out some seriously creative stops to protect their priciest glassware.

Namely, they take a shoe of yours as a deposit when you order one of their Max Van Het Huis beers, which come in comically lengthy glasses (pictured below).

Sure, hopping to the bathroom because you’re missing a shoe isn’t glamorous, but sipping a giant beer as your shoe screams for help from above sure is!

Enjoy a treat so beloved, it sparked a turf war

If you thought a shoe deposit was bizarre, allow me regale you with tales of the almighty Cuberdon, a traditional Belgian candy that has become entrenched in local Ghent folklore thanks to two petty vendors in Groentemarkt.

The year was 2011, and local businessman Carl Demeestere had just begun selling Cuberdons at his bakery. The conical nose-shaped candies (which contain a crisp sugary shell and a gooey, jammy interior) were a smash hit with locals and tourists alike.

To his horror however, a rival vendor by the name of Sonny Breine began selling Cuberdons shortly after, unsubtly right in front of Demeestere’s bakery.

What ensued would become known locally as the “war of little noses” – Demeestere opened up his own stall right next to Breine’s, the two began openly heckling each other in public, and once they even got in an open fist fight that resulted in both losing their licenses temporarily.

While today the war seems to be over, and Breine has long left his stall, drama has continued to unfold in recent years with Brein’s successor dumpling a literal bucket of water on Demeestere’s head.

Drama aside, if you want to taste the treat that inspired this soap opera of water buckets, brawls, and incessant hostility, go ahead and try a Cuberdon – those very same stalls are still there today.

Sample some of the best vegetarian food in Europe

A little known fact about Ghent is that it’s actually known as the veggie capital of Europe , with plenty of plant-based options found all around the city.

So, if you want to participate in a tradition that’s uniquely Ghent, consider taking part in the city’s Thursday Veggie day, during which over 100 restaurants and hotels in the city go vegetarian for the day, offering tasty options throughout the day that are all meat-free.

Have a coffee break at a used book cafe with FREE COOKIES

10,000 books, a wall full of free cookies, and truly tasty cappuccinos…

Truly, is there anything better?

One of the best things to do in Ghent when you’re in need of a break is to visit Le Bal Infernal, a lovely and cozy café that is filled wall to wall with used books, as well as cookies on the house.

No, I’m not joking. Please go. I miss it deeply.

Go On an Epic 6-round Beer tour

While it’s fairly easy to DIY your own beer tour around Ghent (just hurl yourself at the closest bar and get belligerent), there are certainly more dignified and cultured ways to get your buzz on.

If you’re hoping to get some local insight into beer culture, as well as find where to drink beer in Ghent away from the more touristy locales, then booking a beer tour like this one is a great Ghent activity to consider. Not only does it take you to three different bars, you also get 5 beer tasters and a mini chocolate tasting too.

Sample local Ghent specialties at the Great Butcher’s Hall

In Groentemarkt just steps from the aggressive nose-candy vendors, you’ll find Ghent’s Butcher’s Hall, where local specialty Ganda ham hangs from the ceiling like a fun, meaty decoration.

This spot is a must-visit for foodies because it’s now home to the Centre for East Flemish Regional Products, meaning you can find all sorts of local goodies to taste and buy, like beer, mustard, ham, and cheese.

Enjoy a Chocolate Tour

If there’s one thing that could be superior to the cold pint of craft beer, then it must be chocolate.

Fortunately, Belgium is known for its (nose-shaped, feud-inspiring) sweets and chocolate.

Again, it’s pretty easy to DIY your own chocolate tour of Ghent, but if you want insider tips and local insight, then booking a chocolate tour like this one is definitely the way to go.

Learn how to cook Ghent specialties with a local

Ghent is a foodie city through and through, and one of the best ways to experience this is through learning how to make your own classic Belgian dishes from scratch!

This cooking class takes place in a Ghent kitchen/garden where a local expert will guide you through the preparation of your own Belgian classics, which of course you get to eat after. There’s definitely no better way to get acquainted with local cuisine than this.

Quirky and Offbeat Things to do in Ghent

Now, what is there to do in Ghent that’s a bit unusual or offbeat? In a city with shoe deposits and nose candy turf wars, surely you can expect an oddity or two. Well, I’m happy to report that there are plenty of fun and unusual Ghent activities to choose from. Here are a few.

Celebrate the birth of new Ghent babies

Celebrate the birth of stranger babies? Why not?

At the gorgeous Ghent square of Sint-Veerleplein, you’ll find a peculiar streetlight installation that (when flashing) means a baby has just been born in the city!

In collaboration with the Ghent City Council, artist Alberto Garutti dreamt up this adorable installation in 2011.

It’s known as Ai Nati Oggi (“For Those Born Today”) and the concept is simple: a button installed in a local maternity ward allows parents to signal the birth of their child to the city with a flashing light.

Today, that light can be found in Sint-Veerleplein, one of the oldest squares in the city, sharing real estate with cozy pubs and iconic landmarks such as the Castle of Counts.

Ahh, yes – once a square for executions, now a square for flashing baby lights. Gotta love it.

Enjoy Peace And Quiet At Ghent’s Beguinages

For a peaceful escape from the busiest and buzziest patches of Ghent, consider seeking temporary refuge in a Beguinage.

These Beguinages are where enclosed communities for devout women were created back in the 13th century.

Today, they are UNESCO World Heritage Sites seen throughout the province of Flanders, where you’ll find 30 total including in Bruges and in Antwerp .

As for Ghent, you’ll find three here, all of which make for an excellent little walk:

• Great St Elizabeth Beguinage 
• Old St Elizabeth Beguinage
• Small Beguinage Our Lady ter Hoyen

Grab a Drink at Ghent’s Tiniest Microbar

You can grab a drink anywhere in Ghent, with hundreds of restaurants and pubs at your disposal, but if you’re looking for something quirky and unique to do in Ghent, what about the smallest one?

Once upon a time, ‘t Galgenhuisje had two rather grim functions: first as a tripe house where they sold entrails deemed too unsanitary for the Butchers’ Hall, and also as a waiting area where condemned men and women awaited execution.

Today, ‘t Galgenhuisje is Ghent’s smallest cafe, exploding with great reviews, whether it’s for their hospitality, variety of Belgian tap beer, friendly service or picturesque setting.

Say hi to Ghent’s answer to Mannekin Pis

For those who have not yet known the joy of Belgium’s most famous tiny peeing boy statue, let me fill you in: the Mannekin Pis is a Brussels icon, and arguably the city’s most famous tourist attraction… although whether or not it’s a tourist trap is fiercely up for debate.

Yes it really is just a fountain of a tiny peeing boy.

But don’t worry – Ghent has something similar! If you’re looking for “off the beaten path” tiny peeing statues, then boy do I have just the activity for you.

Lena, Nestor & Luna can be found happily peeing in the Kraanlei above Nestor Restaurant. You’re welcome.

Or Visit a Troll-themed Bar In a Centuries-old Basement

Tucked away in a 15th century basement, Trollekelder is an authentic beer café in Ghent that not only excels in delivering an old fashioned pub ambiance, but does so with a dash of troll-themed details.

This bizarre fairytale setting was once a book shop up until the 80s. Today, it’s an intimate hideaway known for its outstanding array of specialty beers… not that you needed any further incentive than “troll-themed bar”.

Cool and Alternative Things to do in Ghent

Wondering what to do in Ghent for a bit of an alternative experience? Here are some ideas!

Hunt for epic street art

I’ve already said that I find Ghent’s Graffiti Street pretty overrated, but here’s the good news: Ghent is actually filled with tons of cool and beautiful street art – all you have to do is hunt it down!

Artists from around the world have left a legacy of street art in Ghent, and you can find it all over.

From statues dedicated to nature and realistic 3D graffiti art to funky and colourful murals representing fantasy and culture, there’s plenty to see!

Click here for a list of murals you can visit.

Go On an Urban Mountain Bike Sightseeing Tour

There’s tons of wonderful ways to discover Ghent – on foot, by boat and also (if you’re athletically inclined) by mountain bike.

If you’re looking for one of the more unique things to do in Ghent, check out this highly rated urban mountain biking tour which takes you to hidden gems and alternative sights in Ghent with a local.

Check out De Krook

De Krook is a relatively new public library in Ghent, but its striking and unique design make it a worthwhile place to visit for lovers of architecture.

Perched on a river bend in Ghent once used to unload coal, this thriving and modern library is known for its outstanding modern architecture and unique activities including a Maker’s Lab, 3D printing facilities and plenty of workshops for visitors.

Go shopping at Dok Noord

If regular shopping on the main drags of Ghent is too mainstream for you, head to Dok Noord, a former factory that has been converted today into a trendy shopping complex with dozens of shops, entertainment services and even leisure/fitness facilities on the top floor.

Go For a Swim in Belgium’s Oldest Indoor Swimming Pool,

To continue Ghent’s string of random accolades, did you know Ghent is also home to Belgium’s oldest indoor swimming pool?

The Van Eyck swimming pool in Ghent is a beautiful facility that boasts some seriously gorgeous art deco and offers a chance to ogle architecture, hang with locals and get a refreshing workout in all-in-one.

And despite being Belgium’s oldest indoor pool/bath house, it’s also considered fairly new as it was completely refurbished back in 2001.

As a bonus, a special lounge on the first floor allows you to chill out after your swim for a chance to properly appreciate the architecture.

Did I miss any of your favourite fun things to do in Ghent?

Let me know in the comments!

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✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

1 thought on “20+ Unique and Fun Things to do in Ghent, Belgium”

Amazing! You describe places in a way that inspires me to travel and see the world. Thank you very much for that. Greetings from Canada.

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20 Best Things to do in Ghent – Museums, Attractions and Festivals

October 6, 2023 | Posted in: Belgium

Ghent is a historic city located in the Flanders region of Belgium. Ghent's origin dates back to the 10th century, but then grew to become one of the largest and richest cities in northern Europe by the 13th century due to its thriving cloth trade industry. However, the city went through an economic decline in the 16th century. Today, Ghent has transitioned into a modern city and is considered one of Belgium's best-kept secrets.

Ghent's well-preserved mediaeval architecture makes it a popular tourist destination. The city center is car-free, and landmarks like the 14th-century Belfry tower and 12th-century St. Bavo's Cathedral draws many visitors daily. Inside St. Bavo's Cathedral lies one of Ghent's most prized treasures – the 15th-century Ghent Altarpiece, an intricate polyptych altarpiece featuring paintings by Jan van Eyck. Ghent is also home to Gravensteen Castle, which was built in 1180 and houses a museum today.

When visiting Ghent , climbing the belfry's 366 steps rewards visitors with panoramic views of the city and its many church spires. At night, Ghent's architecture and riverfront are illuminated, giving the city a magical charm. The city celebrates with the lively, 10-day Ghent Festivities each July. Foodies will enjoy the region's specialty dishes like waterzooi stew, as well as praline chocolates and cone-shaped cuberdons candies.

Listed below are the best things to do in Ghent.

• Tour Gravensteen Castle. Gravensteen Castle is a medieval castle in central Ghent, Belgium. Originally built in 1180, it has many original features like imposing stone walls, towers, central keep and moat. Visitors can explore dungeons, see torture devices and medieval artifacts. Located at Sint-Veerleplein 11, the castle appeals to history and architecture lovers. Admission is 13 € ($14, £11). Open daily 10am-6pm.
• Climb the Belfry of Ghent. The Belfry of Ghent is a 13th century bell tower in Ghent's historic center. At 91 meters tall, it offers panoramic city views. Its spire has a golden dragon weathervane from 1377. The tower contains a carillon with 54 bells and is part of a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can take the lift or climb 366 steps to the top. Located off Sint-Baafsplein, the belfry appeals to sightseers and photographers. Admission is 11€ ($12, £10). Open daily 10am-6pm.
• Eat local culinary delicacies in Ghent. Ghent has signature local delicacies like the purple conical raspberry-flavored candy called cuberdon and the vegetable stew Gentse waterzooi. The Great Butchers' Hall displays over 175 regional products. Ghent is a haven for vegetarians with “veggie days” on Thursdays in restaurants. Foodies flock here for the diverse cuisine.
• Stroll through the streets in Patershol. Patershol is a historic neighborhood with cobblestone streets and medieval architecture dating to the 12th century. Once home to leather traders, it is now a trendy district with restaurants, bars, galleries and cafés. Located by the Castle of the Counts, it offers charming ambience. Patershol appeals to photographers and foodies.
• Discover the House of Alijn. The House of Alijn in a former children's hospital illuminates daily life in 20th century Ghent through recreated shops, exhibits and artifacts. Located at Kraanlei 65, it appeals to all ages. Hands-on exhibits bring history to life. Admission is 9€ ($9.50, £7.70). Open Tuesday-Sunday 10am-5pm, closed Mondays.

1. Tour Gravensteen Castle

2. climb the belfry of ghent, 3. eat local culinary delicacies in ghent, 4. stroll through the streets in patershol, 5. discover the house of alijn, 6. explore the friday market in vrijdagmarkt, 7. discover ghent’s graffiti, 8. marvel inside st bavo's cathedral, 9. wander through the ruins of medieval st. bavo's abbey, 10. enjoy romantic views from st michael's bridge, 11. appreciate the gothic architecture at st nicholas church, 12. relax at a canal-side cafe on graslei and korenlei, 13. experience magical light installations at the ghent light festival, 14. cruise along on a boat trip on ghent’s medieval waterways, 15. find peace in st peter's abbey's secluded gardens, 16. stroll through citadelpark, 17. shop for flowers at the kouter flower market, 18. discover the contemporary art at s.m.a.k museum, 19. view masterpieces at the museum of fine arts, what are the best museums in ghent, what are the best things to do in ghent with kids and toddlers, how many days do you need in ghent, what are the best festivals taking place in ghent, what are the best things to do in belgium.

Gravensteen Castle is a medieval castle located in the heart of Ghent, Belgium. Gravensteen Castle, also know as “Castle of the Counts”, was originally built in 1180 by Philip of Alsace, who was inspired by the crusader castles he saw during the Second Crusade. Gravensteen Castle served as the residence of the Counts of Flanders until 1353, when it was converted into a courthouse and prison. Gravensteen Castle is one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Belgium and Europe. The castle has many original features intact, including the imposing stone walls and towers, the central keep and the moat. Visitors can explore dungeons, view torture devices and see exhibits of medieval weapons and armor.

Gravensteen Castle is located in the old town of Ghent, at the address Sint-Veerleplein 11, 9000 Ghent, Belgium. Ghent is situated in the Flanders region of Belgium, around 30 miles (50 km) northwest of Brussels. The nearest train station is Gent-Sint-Pieters Station, which has regular trains from Brussels and other major Belgian cities. From the train station, tram lines 1 and 4 stop at the Gravensteen tram stop, just a short walk from the castle entrance. Alternatively, the castle can be reached by car, with parking available at nearby garages.

Gravensteen Castle is suitable for visitors of all ages, especially those interested in medieval history and architecture. Families with kids will enjoy exploring the castle's towers and dungeons. Admission costs 13 € ($14, £11) for adults, with discounted rates for seniors and students aged 19-25 and free entry for children under 19. The castle is open daily, with hours from 10am to 6pm with last admission at 4:40pm . Guided tours are available to enhance the experience and audio guides are included with admission. Visiting Gravensteen Castle offers the opportunity to immerse yourself in medieval Ghent and Belgium's history.

The Belfry of Ghent is a medieval bell tower located in the historic center of Ghent, Belgium. It stands 91 meters (299 feet) tall and is one of the Three Towers of Ghent, along with the Saint Bavo Cathedral and Saint Nicholas Church towers. The address of the Belfry of Ghent is Sint-Baafsplein, 9000 Gent, Belgium.

The Belfry of Ghent was built between 1313 and 1380 and served as the city's watchtower, treasury and archive. It was part of the set of Belfries in Belgium and France that were named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999. The tower is renowned for its Brabantian Gothic architecture featuring a stone spire designed by architect Jan van Haelst.

A notable feature of the Belfry is the golden dragon weathervane that tops its spire. This statue was made in Bruges in 1377 and installed on the tower around 1380. The dragon is a symbolic guardian of the city that has watched over Ghent for centuries. Inside, the tower contains a carillon with 54 bells that regularly chime. Visitors can take a lift or climb the 366 steps to reach the top floor belfry and take in panoramic views over Ghent.

To reach the Belfry of Ghent, travelers can take public transit to the Gent Korenmarkt stop. This stop is served by tram lines 1 and 4 as well as bus N4. The tower is just a short walk from the tram and bus stop. Alternatively, the tower can be reached by car or on foot from most places in the compact city center of Ghent.

The Belfry of Ghent is an ideal activity for adults and older children interested in architecture, history and panoramic views. There is an admission fee of 11€ ($12, £10) for adults, with discounted rates available for seniors, students, children and visitors with disabilities. Children under 12 years can enter for free. The tower is open daily from 10AM to 6PM, except on January 1st and December 25th.

The Belfry of Ghent offers visitors the opportunity to climb one of Belgium's most important medieval towers and UNESCO sites. Exploring the tower provides insight into Ghent's history and symbolism while taking in views from the top is a highlight of any trip to this historic Belgian city.

If you’re into your food, Ghent is definitely the city for you. As well as its own traditional delicacies, Ghent is known to be a culinary center that features different cuisines from not just Belgium but all over the world.

One signature delicacy that you have to try is the famous “cuberdon” or “neuzeke” that is a conical purple candy, traditionally raspberry-flavored (though they also come in a few other flavors). Two wagons sell these on the Groentenmarkt and are known to be vicious rivals of each other.

Another local dish is the Gentse waterzooi, which is a delicious vegetable-based stew.

If it’s authentic cuisine you want, then the Great Butchers’ Hall is the place to go. There are over 175 traditional regional products from East Flanders and all of them are showcased and sold here. There’s also a restaurant where you can try them and an infinite amount of East Flemish beer.

The hall itself is an impressive relic, with a great vaulted ceiling where Ganda ham would have been hung up to dry.

Despite all the local meats, Ghent is a haven for vegetarians, calling itself the “Veggie Capital of Europe”. There are more vegetarian meals served here than anywhere else in Belgium and more vegetarian restaurants per capita than anywhere else in Europe! Thursday is “veggie day” where restaurants fill their menus with non-meat options.

Patershol is a picturesque historical quarter located in the Belgian city of Ghent. Situated in the shadow of the famous Gravensteen Castle along the River Leie, Patershol features charming cobblestone streets lined with medieval architecture dating back to the 12th century. The neighborhood gets its name from the Carmelite Fathers or Paters, who established a monastery here in 1329.

Patershol was once a working-class district occupied by leather tradesmen, then fell into decline during the 19th century with the rise of industrialization. However, beginning in the 1970s, a major renovation project restored many of the buildings and helped transform Patershol into one of Ghent's trendiest and most desirable neighborhoods. Today, Patershol is known for its vibrant restaurant scene, independent shops and lively nightlife. The narrow alleys are filled with outdoor cafe terraces, while the historic houses now contain intimate bistros, quirky bars, art galleries and more.

Patershol, despite its popularity, still retains an authentic, old-world charm. Patershol is located in the heart of central Ghent, between the Lys and Scheldt Rivers. The neighborhood is  bounded between Veldstraat, Hoogstraat and Kraanlei. Nearby landmarks include Gravensteen Castle, Graslei, Korenmarkt square and St. Michael's Bridge. The city center of Ghent is only a 10-15 minute walk away.

Visitors can easily reach Patershol by public transportation or on foot. Driving and parking is not recommended due to restrictions in the medieval city center. Once in Ghent, exploring Patershol and the surrounding attractions is best done on foot.

Patershol offers something for visitors of all ages and interests. Foodies flock here for the diverse cuisine, while history buffs admire the medieval architecture. The car-free streets provide a safe, walkable environment for families. Nightlife seekers enjoy bar-hopping in the evenings. Photographers capture charming streetscapes. And architecture enthusiasts study the historic building styles.

There is no admission fee to simply explore and experience the Patershol district. However, visitors will need local currency to purchase food, drinks, souvenirs and such from the local businesses.

The House of Alijn, also know as Huis van Alijn, is a museum located in the heart of Ghent, Belgium at Kraanlei 65, 9000 Ghent. It is housed in the only remaining medieval almshouse in Ghent, which was founded in 1363 by the Alijn family as an act of peace after a murder between two feuding families, the Alijns and Rijms. The House of Alijn offers a unique glimpse into the everyday lives of people in Ghent throughout history, with a focus on the 20th century.

The museum's collection includes thousands of objects, photos and audiovisual materials that provide an intimate look at the daily rituals, traditions and habits of ordinary people in the 1900s. Exhibitions recreate shops, living rooms and other spaces from the past century, allowing visitors to experience Belgian life through the decades. The House of Alijn brings history to life in an accessible way through the stories of common people.

The museum also has a traditional Flemish tavern on site where visitors can enjoy local beers and snacks. The environment is family-friendly, with special events and activities tailored towards children. The House of Alijn is located in central Ghent, about a 10 minute walk from the Gravensteen Castle and the Graslei canal area. It is easily accessible by public transportation, with the nearest tram stop being Gravensteen. Drivers can find paid parking nearby.

The museum is open Tuesday to Saturday from 9am to 5pm and Sunday from 10am to 5pm. It is closed on Mondays. Tickets cost 9€ ($9.50, £7.70) for adults, with discounted rates available for senior citizens, youth, children and families. Free entry is offered on the Sunday mornings (10.00 – 13.00) and during Ghent Festivities for Ghent residents and Children under 19. Reduced prices are also offered for youngsters, children, UiTPAS Ghent and groups of 15 people and more. Guided tours in English can be booked in advance for 45€ ($48, £39).

The House of Alijn provides a unique perspective into Belgian cultural heritage. Its exhibitions and activities bring history to life in an immersive way, making it an ideal museum for visitors of all ages interested in learning about Ghent's past through the lens of ordinary people.

Vrijdagmarkt is a historic city square located in the center of Ghent, Belgium, also known as one of the oldest and largest squares in Ghent, spanning roughly 100 meters by 100 meters. Vrijdagmarkt translates as “Friday Market”, hosts a market every Friday morning, dating back to 1199. On Fridays, the square fills with market stalls selling fresh produce, breads, cheeses, meats, flowers and household goods. Saturdays feature stalls selling new wares like clothing and leather goods. Vrijdagmarkt offers something for everyone – it's a great place to pick up groceries, shop for unique items, admire the architecture or stop for a drink at one of the many lively terrace cafes surrounding the square.

At the center of Vrijdagmarkt stands a bronze statue of medieval statesman Jacob van Artevelde, known as the “wise man” of Ghent. It is the oldest statue in Ghent, erected in 1863 and commemorates Artevelde's role in the city's 14th century prosperity. The square is lined with picturesque medieval step-gabled buildings such as the Toreken bell tower and the Gothic Lakenmetershuizen (Cloth Measurer's House).

Vrijdagmarkt is located in central Ghent, about 37 kilometers (23 miles) northwest of Brussels. It can be easily reached by public transportation, including bus and tram, with the closest stops at Bijlokekaai, Vrijdagmarkt and Korenmarkt located right around the square. Pedestrians can simply follow the charming cobblestone streets from sights like Graslei and Korenlei to reach the market square.

The market and surrounding cafes attract all ages and make a lively atmosphere for singles, couples, families, students and retirees. The square offers something for everyone with options for shopping, dining and sightseeing. Admission to Vrijdagmarkt itself is free and open to the public. However, any purchases at the market stalls or food/drinks at the cafes will incur additional costs.

Ghent’s artistic side is clearly visible in its incredible street art. The city has provided areas for legal graffiti, which has encouraged whole generations of street artists, including internationally famous artist ROA with his recognizable rabbits and birds.

One street which is worth a visit is the Werregarenstraat, known as “graffiti alley” or Ghent's graffiti street , of which the artwork covers every surface and changes continuously. The Tweebruggenstraat is also a great place to discover some really innovative legal street art.

You can take a Concrete Canvas tour (get a map from the Tourist Information point or download online) by yourself or go on this guided bike tour to learn more about street art in Ghent.

St Bavo's Cathedral, also known as Sint-Baafs Cathedral, is a Gothic cathedral located in Ghent, Belgium. The full address of St Bavo's Cathedral is Sint-Baafsplein, 9000 Gent, Belgium. St Bavo's Cathedral stands on the site of a former wooden chapel built in 942 and consecrated by Transmarus, Bishop of Tournai and Noyon. Traces of this original chapel can still be seen in the crypt of the current cathedral. Construction on the Gothic cathedral began around 1274 and lasted until 1569. The cathedral has an impressive 89 meter (292 feet) tall bell tower.

In 1539, St Bavo's became a cathedral when the Diocese of Ghent was established. Previously, it was the site where Charles V was baptized in 1500. St Bavo's Cathedral is most famous for housing the Ghent Altarpiece, a 15th century polyptych painting by the brothers Hubert and Jan van Eyck. This artwork, also known as The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb, is considered one of Van Eyck's masterpieces and a highlight of early Northern Renaissance art. The cathedral also contains other notable works, including Rubens' painting Saint Bavo Enters the Convent and Belgium's largest cathedral organ, built in 1935.

Visitors to St Bavo's Cathedral can see the ornate Gothic architecture, view the historic religious artworks and listen to organ concerts. The cathedral crypt contains Romanesque traces of the earlier wooden chapel, including frescoes. The cathedral offers guided tours, augmented reality experiences and audio guides to enhance the visitor experience.

St Bavo's Cathedral is located in the heart of Ghent, so it is easily accessible by public transportation. The cathedral is also within walking distance of Sint-Pieters Station. The admission fee to Ghent Altarpiece costs €12.5 ($13, £11) with alternative options of an Augmented Reality Tour for €16. Access to the cathedral is free. The cathedral is open daily, with hours from 8:30am to 5:30pm Monday to Saturday and 1pm to 5:30pm on Sundays. It stays open late, until 6pm, in summer months. The altarpiece viewing hours are 10am to 5pm daily and 1pm to 5:30pm on Sundays.

St Bavo's Cathedral is best suited for adults interested in art, history and architecture. The altarpiece and religious artworks make this an intriguing visit for art lovers. Historians will appreciate the Romanesque crypt and learning about the role of the cathedral over centuries. Photographers are drawn to capture the Gothic architecture. The cathedral can also be rewarding for families, couples and solo travelers wanting to experience an iconic Ghent landmark.

The Ruins of St. Bavo’s Abbey are the remnants of a 7th century Benedictine abbey located in Ghent, Belgium. The abbey was founded in 630 AD by Saint Amandus and named after Saint Bavo, whose remains were brought there after his death. St. Bavo's Abbey is situated at Voorhoutkaai 43 in Ghent, close to the confluence of the rivers Lys and Scheldt.

St. Bavo's Abbey holds great historical significance, having been an important religious center in medieval times. It experienced its peak during the 11th century but was later destroyed in 1540 on the orders of Holy Roman Emperor Charles V as punishment after the Revolt of Ghent. Today, the ruins are one of the oldest sites in Ghent and the only surviving remnant of the abbey is thought to be its oldest wall.

The ruins are an oasis of greenery and tranquility nestled amidst the hustle and bustle of modern day Ghent. Visitors can wander through the remains of the Romanesque church, cloisters and courtyards, now overgrown with ivy and dotted with medieval stone artifacts. Tall hornbeam bushes outline where abbey buildings once stood. It's like stepping back in time to imagine monastic life centuries ago.

As a unique site, the ruins are best suited for adults interested in history, architecture, religion or enjoying nature in the city. Families with older children may also appreciate exploring the ruins. There is no admission fee, just a suggested donation to contribute to preservation efforts.

The Ruins of St. Bavo’s Abbey are only open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 2-6 pm due to their fragile state, so advance planning is recommended. This special opening schedule along with the abbey's air of mystery, storied past and stunning setting make it an intriguing, almost mystical place to visit in Ghent. St. Bavo's Abbey ruins offer a vivid glimpse into medieval times in one of Europe's historic cities.

St Michael's Bridge (Sint-Michielsbrug in Dutch) is a stone arch bridge spanning the Lys River in the heart of Ghent, Belgium. The bridge connects the St Michiels neighbourhood on the east bank with the Patershol neighbourhood on the west bank. It was built between 1905-1909 in place of an old turntable bridge on the site.

St Michael's Bridge is considered one of the most romantic spots in Ghent. It provides stunning views of the Graslei and Korenlei canals lined with picturesque medieval buildings, as well as the three famous towers of Ghent's skyline – the Belfry, St Bavo's Cathedral and St Nicholas Church. The bridge is the only place in the city where you can see all three towers in one panoramic view. In the middle of the bridge stands a beautiful central lantern with a bronze statue of St Michael, the patron saint of Ghent. These scenic views make St Michael's Bridge the ideal spot for taking photos of Ghent's gothic charm. The bridge comes alive at night when the historic buildings are illuminated, offering a fairy tale vibe.

The bridge is located at Sint-Michielshelling in Ghent's historic centre, about 350 meters southeast of the Belfry and 550 meters northwest of St Bavo's Cathedral. The full address is Sint-Michielshelling, 9000 Gent, Belgium.

St Michael's Bridge can be easily reached on foot from anywhere in the compact city centre of Ghent. It is about a 10 minute walk from top attractions like Graslei, Korenlei, Gravensteen Castle and the Town Hall. If travelling from the train station, you can take Tram 1 from Gent Sint-Pieters station to the Korenmarkt stop, which is 350 meters away.

Visiting St Michael's Bridge is free and open to people of all ages and interests. Its romantic ambience makes it popular with couples, families and photographers. The bridge also offers a pleasant strolling experience.

St Nicholas Church is one of the oldest and most prominent landmarks in Ghent, Belgium. This imposing Gothic church was begun in the early 13th century to replace an earlier Romanesque structure destroyed by fire. St Nicholas Church stands out for its grand scale and elaborate Gothic design. The exterior is constructed from blue-grey stone sourced from Tournai, Belgium, which gives the church its distinctive color. Other notable features include the 76 meter high tower above the crossing of the nave and transepts and slender turrets at the corners of the building.

Inside, marvel at the beautiful stained glass windows, including two large 19th century works by Jean-Baptiste Capronnier. The ornate Baroque high altar has life-sized marble statues of the apostles and an intricately carved pulpit dating from 1867. One of the treasures of St Nicholas Church is its historic romantic organ, built in 1856 by renowned French organ builder Aristide Cavaillé-Coll. This impressive instrument is considered one of the finest 19th century organs in Belgium.

St Nicholas Church is located in central Ghent at Cataloniëstraat 4, steps away from the bustling Korenmarkt (Grain Market). The church stands alongside other famous medieval landmarks, including the Belfry of Ghent and Saint Bavo Cathedral, which together form the iconic skyline of historic Ghent.

Visitors can take tram line 1 from Gent-Sint-Pieters station to the Korenmarkt stop, just 1 minute walk from the church.

St Nicholas Church is open Tuesday to Sunday 10am to 5pm, with shorter hours on Mondays from 2pm to 5pm. Admission to explore the interior and appreciate the architecture is free. Due to its central location, imposing architecture and historic significance, St Nicholas Church appeals to visitors of all interests and ages. Tourists fascinated by medieval Europe, church architecture, Belgian history and Gothic design will find a trip to St Nicholas Church highly rewarding.

The historic Graslei and Korenlei streets are located along the Leie River in the heart of Ghent, Belgium. The streets run parallel to each other on opposite banks of the river, connected by the iconic Sint-Michielsbrug (St. Michael's Bridge) and Grasbrug bridges. Graslei and Korenlei formed the old port area of Ghent dating back to the 11th century when the city was a major trading hub.

Graslei, meaning “Herb Quay”, features rows of medieval guildhalls, warehouses and patrician houses, many dating back to the 12th century. The picturesque buildings boast distinctive gables in Gothic and Renaissance styles. Korenlei, “Corn Quay”, across the river, is equally charming with stone buildings from the 14th and 15th centuries. Both quays were restored for the 1913 World Exhibition held in Ghent, preserving their historic character.

Notable sights along Graslei include the 13th century De Graslei building, the 16th century Guild House of the Free Sailors (Gildehuis der Vrije Schippers), the 17th century Corn Measurers House (Korenmetershuis), the 17th century Toll House (Tolhuisje) and the 12th century Warehouse ‘t Spijker. Korenlei is home to the 14th century Guild House of the Compulsory Sailors (Gildehuis der Onvrije Schippers) and elegant townhouses.

The iconic Sint-Michielsbrug bridge in the neo-Gothic style dates from the early 20th century. The smaller Grasbrug bridge leads to the Graslei and offers scenic views of the river and quays.

Graslei and Korenlei is located in the heart of Ghent at Graslei, 9000 Gent, Belgium. The streets can be easily accessed on foot from the city center and Korenmarkt area. Public transportation options include bus and tram lines that stop at Korenmarkt.

The scenic quays draw tourists and locals alike. Visitors can stroll along the riverbanks, relax at one of the many outdoor cafes, admire the medieval architecture or take boat tours for unique views of the city. There are also museums nearby like the Design Museum Gent. The streets host events and festivals throughout the year.

Admission to Graslei and Korenlei is free and the streets are pedestrian-friendly, making them ideal for people of all ages and accessible to strollers and wheelchairs. The charming streets bring Ghent's history to life and showcase the city's medieval harbor and architectural heritage. They remain some of the most picturesque spots along the river in Ghent.

The Ghent Light Festival is a free light art event held in Ghent every three years. The festival takes place throughout the historic city center of Ghent, with light installations and projections displayed on the facades of buildings, bridges, squares and parks. The event showcases works by local and international light artists, transforming Ghent's medieval streets, canals and monuments into a dazzling spectacle after dark.

The first Ghent Light Festival was held in 2011. Since then it has become one of Belgium's largest and most popular cultural events, attracting over 800,000 visitors during the most recent edition in 2021. A key draw is the festival's imaginative use of light and projections to reveal Ghent in a new way. Buildings and public spaces that are familiar by day take on a magical, dreamlike quality at night. The festival also promotes Ghent's reputation for innovation, building on the city's award-winning lighting plan implemented in the late 1990s.

The Ghent Light Festival takes place in the historic city center of Ghent, Belgium. Ghent is located in the Flanders region about 30 miles/50 kilometers west of Brussels. The installations and projections are concentrated in the medieval core around sights like Graslei, Korenmarkt, St. Bavo's Cathedral, Gravensteen Castle and St. Nicholas' Church. Information points and signage help guide visitors along a 5-7 kilometer loop highlighting the light artworks.

The festival is designed for pedestrian access. Public transportation by train, tram or bus is recommended for reaching the city center, as parking is extremely limited. Gent-Sint-Pieters, the main railway station, is situated 2 kilometers from the festival area. Various bus and tram lines also provide convenient connections. Walking and cycling are ideal for moving between installations once inside the car-free zone.

The Ghent Light Festival appeals to all audiences. The illuminated artworks create a family-friendly atmosphere at night. The event attracts couples, groups of friends, students, photographers, artists and design enthusiasts. Visitors of all ages are welcome to experience this unique showcase of lighting design and interactive technology against the backdrop of Ghent's historic architecture.

Admission to the Ghent Light Festival is free. All of the light installations and projections can be viewed at no cost. Some sections of the route may become crowded during peak times. Waiting or returning at less busy hours can allow for a more relaxed, unhurried experience.

Visitors are advised to dress warmly, as late January evenings in Ghent average around 5°C (41°F).

Who doesn’t enjoy a calm and relaxing city boat trip? There are 40-minute boat cruises along the river Leie that you can hop on from Graslei as well as a number of other pick-up points. There aren’t many better ways of experiencing a city than from the water and these trips give you a unique view of the waterfront, as well as being a let-up for those hard-working legs!

The route will take you past the medieval quay, the Old Butcher’s Hall and the Gravensteen and more. There’s on-board commentary in different language options filling you in on insider facts and the boats can be open or covered to shelter from all weathers.

Book your boat ride here.

St Peter's Abbey, also know as Sint-Pietersabdij, is a former Benedictine monastery located in the city of Ghent, Belgium. Founded in the 7th century, the abbey has a long and rich history dating back over 1300 years. Throughout the Middle Ages, St Peter's Abbey was one of the most influential and prosperous religious institutions in Flanders. At its peak, the abbey owned land and villages not just in Belgium but as far away as England. The abbey complex grew to resemble a small village, with farms, gardens, residences and other buildings sprawling across its grounds.

Today, the abbey is no longer active but portions of the medieval complex still stand. The magnificent abbey church, built in the 17th century Baroque style, is a highlight. Visitors can also see the medieval dining hall and cloisters dating to the 12th century. The abbey is located in central Ghent at Sint-Pietersplein 9, 9000 Gent, Belgium. It sits atop one of the highest spots in Ghent, offering nice views over the city.

St Peter's Abbey is renowned for its beautiful enclosed garden and vineyards behind the main abbey complex. This hidden oasis of greenery is a favorite spot where locals and students come to relax. The ruins of the old abbey buildings next to the gardens provide an evocative glimpse into the abbey's medieval past. For tourists visiting Ghent, the abbey's garden is a must-see attraction.

The abbey can be easily reached by train, bus or car. Ghent's main railway station, Gent-Sint-Pieters, is located just a 20 minute walk away. Several city bus lines also stop at the Heuvelpoort or Gent Zuid stops, both a short 5-10 minute walk from the abbey entrance. If driving, there is an underground parking garage located beneath St Peter's Square in front of the abbey.

St Peter's Abbey serves as an exhibition space and museum today. Visitors can tour portions of the abbey complex and view rotating exhibits focused on cultural, historical and artistic themes. A fun option for families is the virtual movie guide voiced by a digital monk named Jean-François Alison. This interactive experience takes you through various areas of the abbey while following a mystery.

Entry to the permanent exhibit, cloisters, courtyard and gardens at St Peter's Abbey is free for all visitors. Access to the special exhibitions requires paid tickets. The abbey is open daily except Mondays from 10am to 6pm. St Peter's Abbey appeals to visitors of all ages interested in history, architecture, museums and gardens.

Citadelpark is a large urban park located in the city center of Ghent, Belgium. It covers an area of about 89 acres and is situated on a hill between the rivers Scheldt and Leys. The address of Citadelpark is Citadelpark, 9000 Gent, Belgium. Citadelpark was created in 1875 on the site of a former citadel built by the Dutch between 1819-1831. The citadel was one of the largest and most modern fortresses in Europe at the time, but became obsolete and was converted into an infantry and artillery barracks until 1870. When the city purchased the grounds in the early 1870s, the fortifications were demolished and the area was turned into a public city park.

There are around 780 trees in the park, representing over 100 different species, including some exotic specimens. The park showcases winding paths, ponds, artificial grottoes, rose gardens and a music pavilion. Many of the trees have name tags identifying their species, which makes for an educational botanical walk.

Citadelpark is also home to several cultural institutions and monuments. The Museum of Fine Arts, the S.M.A.K. Museum of Contemporary Art, the ICC Convention Center and the Citadelpark Velodrome cycling track are all located within the park grounds. Various sculptures are scattered throughout, such as the statue Tigers Contesting a Prey from 1910. During the summer, the park hosts outdoor concerts at the 19th century cast iron music kiosk.

The easiest way to reach Citadelpark is by public transportation. The park is about 1 km south of Ghent-Sint-Pieters train station. If driving, there is metered street parking along the surrounding roads and a few parking lots near the entrances.

Citadelpark appeals to a wide audience. The lush gardens, ponds and woodland paths make it a relaxing place for adults to take a stroll. Families enjoy picnicking on the lawns and exploring the playground. The park is also popular with students and young people, who meet there to play sports, read or just hang out on nice days. Visiting one of the museums would appeal to arts and culture lovers.

Entry to Citadelpark itself is free and open to the public year-round. The park is open 24 hours a day, though some areas may be closed at night. Special exhibits and museums cost extra. Access to the botanical garden and rose garden may require paid entry at certain times.

Kouter flower market is a weekly open-air flower market held in Kouter square in the heart of Ghent, Belgium. The address for Kouter square and the flower market is Kouter, 9000 Ghent, Belgium. The flower market takes place every Sunday morning, from 8am to 1pm and offers a wide variety of flowers, plants and other gardening items for sale.

Kouter flower market has a long history dating back over 250 years. The tradition of selling flowers on the square on Sundays first began in 1772, initiated by local horticulturalist Toontje Verstuyft. Since then, Kouter's flower market has continued weekly on Sundays, becoming an integral part of local Ghent culture. Today, the market features flower sellers set up around the spacious square, providing locals and visitors alike with fresh-cut blooms and potted plants.

Kouter square comes alive on Sundays with the vibrant displays of flowers in all hues, fragrances wafting through the air and bustling crowds strolling through. Locals frequent the flower market to purchase blooms and plants for their homes and gardens, while visitors come to take in the sights, sounds and scents that create the market's cheerful atmosphere. The flower sellers are also special, as they passionately maintain the long-standing tradition of providing fresh regional flowers and expertise to customers.

In addition to the flower market itself, Kouter square offers other Sunday morning attractions. The central bandstand hosts free concerts by local brass bands, serenading market-goers. There are also food stalls selling breakfast items and the iconic Blue Kiosk serving champagne and oysters al fresco. The surrounding streets feature cafes and eateries lively with brunch crowds.

Admission to enter Kouter square and flower market is free.

S.M.A.K Museum or Stedelijk Museum voor Actuele Kunst, is a museum of contemporary art located in Ghent, Belgium. S.M.A.K opened to the public in 1999 and is housed in a former 1930s casino building in Citadelpark, opposite the Museum of Fine Arts. The museum has quickly gained a reputation for its outstanding permanent collection and thought-provoking temporary exhibitions.

What makes S.M.A.K special is its diverse collection of post-1945 Belgian and international art. The permanent collection includes major works by famous artists such as Andy Warhol, Francis Bacon and Joseph Beuys. Every four months, S.M.A.K showcases a rotating selection of pieces from its collection alongside original and bold temporary exhibitions. The museum serves as a dynamic platform for artistic experimentation and innovation. Under the direction of Philippe Van Cauteren, S.M.A.K spotlights contemporary artists from around the world, keeping a pulse on shifting societies.

S.M.A.K is located at Jan Hoetplein 1, 9000 Gent in Citadelpark, Ghent's largest city park. The nearest train station is Gent-Sint-Pieters, about a 12 minute walk or short bus ride away. To reach S.M.A.K by car, drivers can take exit 8 Gent Centrum from the E40 highway, follow signs to Gent Centrum and turn right on Citadelpark. There is parking available in the lot in front of S.M.A.K and the Museum of Fine Arts.

S.M.A.K welcomes visitors of all ages and backgrounds. The constantly changing exhibits provide appeal for art enthusiasts and novices alike. Families will enjoy the children's workshops in the Imaginary Museum in Citadelpark. The museum's variety of events, such as curatorial lectures, also draw diverse crowds. After taking in the art, visitors can relax at the museum's cafe.

General admission to S.M.A.K is €15 for adults and €13 for senior citizens and students. Children under 18 enter for free. The museum is closed on Mondays and certain holidays. Visitors can purchase tickets at the door or online in advance. Holders of the CityCard Gent also receive free admission. Special guided tours and workshops may have additional fees.

The Museum of Fine Arts (Dutch: Museum voor Schone Kunsten, MSK) is an art museum located in Ghent, Belgium. Situated on the east side of Citadelpark, the museum houses a large permanent collection of art spanning from the Middle Ages to the mid-20th century. The museum focuses primarily on Flemish art from the Southern Netherlands, but it also contains several European paintings, with a strong representation of French pieces. In addition to its permanent collection, the Museum of Fine Arts organizes temporary exhibitions and other public programs throughout the year.

The Museum of Fine Arts possesses around 9,000 works, 600 of which are on permanent display in the galleries. Highlights of the medieval and Renaissance collections include masterpieces by Hieronymus Bosch such as St. Jerome at Prayer and Christ Carrying the Cross, as well as Jupiter and Antiope by Anthony van Dyck. The museum has an extensive selection of Northern Baroque art, including works by Peter Paul Rubens and Pieter Brueghel the Younger. Later artistic movements like Romanticism, Realism, Impressionism, Expressionism and Surrealism are also well-represented with paintings by Théodore Géricault, Gustave Courbet, James Ensor and René Magritte, among others.

The Museum of Fine Arts is located at 1 Fernand Scribedreef in Ghent, Belgium. It can be easily reached by public transportation, with the nearest tram stop at Ledeganckstraat and several buses stopping at Sint-Jacobsplein just a 5-10 minute walk away. By car, parking is available at the pay lot on Sint-Pietersplein, about a 15 minute walk from the museum. Admission costs 13€ for adults, 7€ for visitors over 65 and teachers and is free for those under 19 years old. The museum is open Tuesday-Friday 9:30am-5:30pm and Saturday-Sunday 10am-6pm.

20. Tour the Ghent City hall

Ghent City Hall, known locally as Stadhuis Gent, is a historic town hall located in the heart of Ghent, Belgium. The ornate building sits on the corner of Hoogpoort and Botermarkt in the city center. Construction on Ghent City Hall first began in the early 16th century, with additions and expansions continuing over the next few centuries. The result is a striking blend of late Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles.

What makes Ghent City Hall so special is its contrasting facades. The Hoogpoort side exhibits the flamboyant Gothic style of the early 1500s, with detailed stone carvings and statues occupying the many niches. Meanwhile, the Botermarkt side displays a more restrained Renaissance design from the turn of the 17th century, with rows of Doric, Ionic and Corinthian columns and pilasters. Despite the differing appearances, the two wings seamlessly come together to form one impressive building.

Inside, visitors can explore 51 rooms over 4 floors, including the ornate Pacificatiezaal with its black-and-white labyrinth floor, the Oostenrijks Salon adorned with 18th-century portraits and the stately Troonzaal throne room. Perhaps most popular is the late Gothic wedding chapel, cherished for its stained-glass windows and network vaulted ceiling. Over 300 couples tie the knot in this romantic room every year.

Ghent City Hall is located in the heart of the city at Botermarkt 1, 9000 Gent, Belgium. It sits right off the Grote Markt central square, just steps away from other top attractions like the Belfry of Ghent. The nearest major public transportation hub is Dampoort Railway Station, about 1.6 kilometers (1 mile) away. From there, the town hall can be reached in a quick 10-15 minute walk. Otherwise, buses and trams regularly run through the area.

Visiting Ghent City Hall is suitable for all audiences, including families with kids and solo travelers. Guided tours are offered daily in several languages for a fee. The tours provide fascinating insight into the architecture and history behind one of Ghent's most significant landmarks. Otherwise, the exterior and surrounding plaza can be enjoyed at no cost, making it a budget-friendly activity.

Find below the best museums in Ghent.

• Museum of Fine Arts (MSK). The Museum of Fine Arts (MSK) is the oldest museum in Belgium, founded in 1798. It displays over 600 masterpieces spanning from the Middle Ages to the present day, including works by Bosch, Rubens, Van Eyck and Magritte. The museum is located next to Citadelpark and houses paintings, sculptures, drawings, prints and tapestries. Key highlights are the Ghent Altarpiece and the ongoing restoration of this 15th-century polyptych. Visitors can observe the restoration process on weekdays. The museum has an extensive permanent collection as well as rotating temporary exhibitions. The MSK is considered one of the best museums in Ghent.
• S.M.A.K. (Municipal Museum of Contemporary Art). S.M.A.K., the Municipal Museum of Contemporary Art, focuses on avant-garde works created after 1945. Established in 1975, it moved to its current location in Citadelpark in 1999. The museum rotates through its collection of installations, videos, paintings and sculptures by both Belgian and international contemporary artists. It aims to make contemporary art accessible, especially to younger audiences. Notable pieces include works by Panamarenko, Marcel Broodthaers and Andy Warhol.
• STAM Museum. The STAM or Ghent City Museum, immerses visitors in the story of Ghent from the Middle Ages to today. Housed in the 14th-century Bijloke Abbey, it uses artifacts, archival materials and interactive multimedia to showcase the city's history. Key highlights include walking on an aerial photo of Ghent, 3D scale models of buildings and viewing the giant painting ‘The Apotheosis of Charles V' up close. The museum opened in its current form in 2010.
• Design Museum Gent. Design Museum Gent collects, preserves and exhibits Belgian and international design from 1860 to today. It is located in an 18th-century mansion and modern wing, hosting temporary thematic exhibitions as well as showcasing its permanent collection. Key design styles represented include Art Nouveau, Art Deco, postmodernism and contemporary design. Exhibits explore the connection between design and societal trends. The museum dates back to 1903 and became city-run in 1958.
• Huis van Alijn. The House of Alijn illuminates daily life and traditions in 20th-century Ghent through a nostalgic collection of everyday objects, archival photographs and footage and recreated environments. Located in a former children's hospital, it evokes Ghent neighborhood life through the decades of the 1900s with hands-on exhibits. Key highlights include recreated shops, a vintage movie theater and opportunities to make your own radio plays. The museum opened in its current form in 2000.

Listed below are the best things to do in Ghent with kids and toddlers.

• Gravensteen Castle. Built in 1180, Gravensteen is a 10th century medieval castle located in the heart of Ghent, Belgium. Kids will love exploring the stone chambers, walking along the castle walls and checking out medieval weapons and artifacts. An audio tour brings the castle's history to life through stories of its inhabitants. Young imaginations will be sparked climbing winding staircases, peering out of arrow slits and learning about medieval life. The torture chamber is handled appropriately for kids who can appreciate some spookiness.
• St. Nicholas Cathedral. At the 13th century St. Nicholas Cathedral, kids can marvel at the huge pipe organ, one of Belgium's most important romantic organs. The unusual position of the tower in the middle of the building is an interesting architectural feature. Kids can get creative describing the sounds of the organ and making up stories about why the tower was built in the center.
• Belfry of Ghent. The Belfry of Ghent offers stunning 360 degree views of Ghent from 91 meters up. Older kids can climb the 366 steps to the top for a rewarding workout. At the top, spot the dragon guarding the city. Due to the steep, narrow steps, the belfry is not suitable for younger children.
• St. Bavo's Cathedral. The famous 15th century Ghent Altarpiece is housed at St. Bavo's Cathedral. Kids can enjoy an augmented reality tour bringing the painting's story to life with flying teapots. The soaring arches, decorated chapels and elaborate details like the ornate pulpit provide lots to observe and discuss. Let imaginations run wild coming up with stories about the lives of people in the altarpiece.
• Patershol Neighborhood. With its cobblestone streets and medieval buildings, exploring the Patershol neighborhood transports kids back in time. Kids can skip along the stone streets, play eye spy searching for architectural details and make up stories about the people who lived in the tiny houses centuries ago. Patershol is also full of cute restaurants to take a break at.
• Korenlei and Graslei. Walking along the canalways at Korenlei and Graslei allows kids to imagine life as a trader sailing to Ghent centuries ago. Comparing the narrow medieval buildings with more modern structures is an interesting way to observe how cities change over time. Fun bridges to peer over and boats going by make for an engaging walk.
• Vrijdagmarkt Square. At Vrijdagmarkt square, weekly markets have been held since 1199. Kids will enjoy browsing the stalls, sampling tasty treats and watching street performers on market days. Locating the narrow 15th century Toreken building hidden among newer structures and learning about public events that took place in the square brings history to life.

Ghent can be sufficiently seen in 2-3 days. Ghent is a compact city that can be easily explored on foot or by bike. The historic city center containing the main attractions is quite small and walkable. Ghent's top sights like Gravensteen Castle, Saint Bavo's Cathedral, Belfry of Ghent, Graslei and Korenlei canals and Patershol neighborhood can all be seen in 1 day. An extra day allows you to visit more museums like the Ghent City Museum, Museum of Fine Arts and Design Museum. Two days is ideal to also see the outer neighborhoods by bike, do a canal boat tour and indulge in Ghent's food scene. Three days gives time for day trips to nearby Bruges, Brussels or Antwerp. While Ghent has enough sights and activities to fill 2-3 days, it is small enough that you won't need much more time to see the highlights. Ghent can feel fully explored in a compact visit of 2-3 days.

When is the best time to visit Ghent?

The best months to visit Ghent for pleasant weather are May through September. During these months, high temperatures range from 18°C (64°F) to 23°C (73°F) while lows stay between 9°C (48°F) and 14°C (57°F). There are about 15-20 days of rainfall per month in the May to September period.

Ghent has an oceanic climate, with mild temperatures throughout the year. The warmest month in Ghent is July, when average highs reach 23°C (73°F) and lows are around 14°C (57°F). The coldest month is January, with average high temperatures of 7°C (44°F) and lows of 2°C (36°F).

Precipitation falls year-round in Ghent, though the wettest month is August which sees an average of 80 mm (3 inches) of rain. The driest month is April, with around 56 mm (2 inches) of rainfall on average.

July and August tend to be the most popular travel months, as they have the warmest weather. However, Ghent can get crowded and hotel rates are higher during summer. For thinner crowds and lower prices, April, May, September and October are good options with mild temperatures and fewer tourists. Winters are chilly, with highs around 7°C (44°F), but Ghent Christmas market and holiday events make December lively.

Listed below are the best festivals in Ghent.

• Gentse Feesten. The Ghent Festivities (Gentse Feesten) is an annual 10-day long cultural festival held in Ghent, Belgium during July. Dating back to 1843, it is one of the biggest festivals in Belgium and Europe with around 1.5 million visitors each year. The festival starts on the Friday before July 21st, which is Belgian National Day, with a wide range of free musical performances, street theatre, exhibitions, events for children, fairs and parades spread throughout the historic city center. Major crowd pullers include the medieval costume parade, an international puppetry festival, dance parties and concerts on multiple stages along the picturesque Graslei canal. The festival retains a rebellious spirit from its early anarchist days in the 1960s and offers visitors a vibrant celebration of Flemish culture.
• Gent Jazz Festival. The Ghent Jazz Festival (Gent Jazz Festival) is an outdoor music festival held annually in July at the Bijloke site in Ghent. Renowned jazz artists from Belgium and around the world perform on multiple stages over several days. The festival started in 2002 and has featured stars like Herbie Hancock, Snarky Puppy, Gregory Porter and Janelle Monáe. Visitors can enjoy lunchtime concerts in the courtyard of Restaurant Lof or late night DJ sets. The festival combines top international acts with emerging Belgian talent to create a diverse musical lineup. For jazz enthusiasts, it is a summer highlight in Ghent.
• Festival of Flanders. Festival of Flanders, also know as Festival van Vlaanderen, is dating back to 1958, is a 3-week long international music festival held in Ghent and East Flanders during September-October. Focusing on classical music, it features over 180 concerts and 1500 musicians. The festival opens with a spectacular concert along the Ghent canals called OdeGand. It aims to make classical music accessible with events like “Parklife”, a musical bicycle tour through the countryside. Top orchestras like the London Philharmonic have performed here along with stars like Joyce DiDonato. The festival is known for innovative programming in historic venues.
• Ghent Film Festival. The Ghent Film Festival in October presents over 100 feature films and 50 shorts. It focuses on “the impact of music on film” and hands out awards for best film and best soundtrack. The festival has premiered work by renowned directors like Ken Loach, Paolo Sorrentino and Nanni Moretti. In addition to screenings, it programs film music concerts, exhibitions and seminars. The festival first started in 1974 and has grown into one of Europe's leading film events.
• Ghent Light Festival. Taking place every 3 years in late January, the Ghent Light Festival illuminates the city with light installations and projections by international artists. Historic buildings and public spaces become an atmospheric backdrop for a 10-day spectacle. The festival highlights Ghent's reputation for innovative lighting design. It offers visitors a new perspective on the city's gothic architecture and winding canals after dark. The event includes light walks, tours, performances and family-friendly activities.

Listed below are the best fun things to do in Belgium all-year-round.

• Rafting or Kayaking in the Ardennes. Navigate the rivers of the Ardennes, especially the Lesse, Ourthe and Semois. Experience diverse terrains, from calm waters to challenging rapids.
• Attend a music festival. Attend in Belgium's vibrant festival scene. Events include the world-famous Tomorrowland, historical Gentse Feesten and diverse Dour Festival.
• Ghent boat trip. Experience Ghent from its canals. Tours reveal historical sights like the Gravensteen and Old Butcher’s Hall, mainly from Graslei and Korenlei harbors.
• Durbuy Labyrinth. Navigate a massive maze in Barvaux near Durbuy, with varied annual themes and added attractions, including eco-gardens and wooden labyrinths.
• Chocolate-making Workshop in Brussels. Dive into Belgium's chocolate culture. Workshops in Brussels teach the art of chocolate-making, producing mendiants and pralines.

Ghent Christmas Market 2023-2024:🎅 Dates, Location, Attractions

23 Best Restaurants and Bars in Ghent to Eat and Drink

15 Best Hotels in Ghent and the Best Neighbourhoods

Ghent Light Festival 2024: Dates, Route and How to Visit

Graffiti in Ghent: Streets, Murals, Neighborhoods and Artists

The Belfry of Ghent: Explore the famous 3 Ghent towers

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30 Fun Things To Do in Ghent, Belgium

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Often overlooked – and quite underrated – Ghent, Belgium is a gem of a travel destination! Situated in the heart of northwest Flanders, Ghent is a city of Medieval architecture, curving canals, majestic churches, fine artworks and plenty of green spaces. We spent a month discovering an incredible number of fun things to do in Ghent, Belgium. Now are sharing our top recommendations!

For many tourists, Ghent is just a stop on the train between Brussels and Bruges. In fact, it was the only glimpse of the city we got during our first trip to Belgium. When we decided to return for a much longer stay – we based ourselves in Ghent. As it turns out, there is much more to see and do in Ghent than we first anticipated. The city is certainly worth more than a few hours…if not a few days.

Ghent may lack a single grandiose main square, like Brussels , and it’s not as enchanting as Bruges or as buzzing as Antwerp . However, with cozy cobblestone lanes, piercing bell towers and an imposing castle, we believe it is one of the prime places to visit in Belgium!

BEST THINGS TO DO IN GHENT, BELGIUM

Our list showcases the best of Ghent – from top attractions to hidden gems! The map at the end of the article pinpoints each sight for easy navigation.

Save, Pin or Bookmark our Ghent Travel Guide to plan your trip to Belgium!

#1 See Gravensteen Castle

The mighty Gravensteen Castle in Ghent is a must-visit sight. Standing valiantly along the waterway since the year 1180, the castle was built by Philip of Alsace and served as the residence of the Counts of Flanders for nearly 200 years. When city rulers moved into Prinsenhof, the castle was utilized as a court, a prison, the mint and even a cotton mill.

Today, the castle houses a museum and is open for tours. Included in the entry fee is a highly entertaining audio guide, which entices visitors to stay for the 1.5-hour duration of the self-guided tour. Tickets can be purchased on site, but guests with pre-purchased entry can avoid the queue.

Budget Travel Tip: Tickets may be a bit on the pricey side for budget travelers. However, you can still get a good look at the castle without entering it. The most popular viewpoint is from Hoofdbrug Bridge. Two other fantastic spots are from the small lane to the north of the castle and on the corner of Sint-Widostraat, across the river.

#2 Visit St. Bavo’s Cathedral and the Ghent Altarpiece

The Ghent Cathedral – Sint Baafskathedraal in Dutch – is a magnificent Gothic church. Its bell tower, rising to an astounding height of 292 feet, is one of the many steeples that accentuate the skyline. The history of the Cathedral can be traced to 1274 – and it has been expanded and embellished over the years.

Highlights of the interior are the hidden sunken chapel (to the right of the altar) and the elaborately carved pulpit.

Additionally, the church houses a treasure trove of artworks, including the famous Altarpiece of Ghent. The 15th century masterpiece, which is also known as the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb, was completed in 1432 by sibling painters, Hubert and Jan Van Eyck.

The Cathedral is free to enter, however a ticket is required to see the Altarpiece and many other works of art.

Sightseeing Tip: As seeing the Altarpiece painting is one of the top Ghent things to do, we recommend purchasing a ticket in advance . Basic entry include the painting, but an upgraded option features a fascinating Virtual Reality experience. 

#3 Climb the Ghent Belfry

Standing as a symbol of the city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the soaring Belfry of Ghent is not to be missed! Built in the 1300s, the tower assumed the responsibility of chiming out the time, ringing out warnings and keeping important documents safe from plunder.

The Belfort rises from the old Cloth Hall, which served as the center a thriving textile trade during the Middle Ages. At the corner of the Cloth Hall is the former prison. The top is marked with a glittering dragon, which serves as a mascot for the city.

The tower’s large warning bell, nicknamed Roland and known as The Triumphant, cracked in 1914. Today, it sits in a garden at the back of St. Nicholas’ Church, just steps from the Belfry.

Visitors can ascend to the top for panoramic views – but a strenuous climb is not required! Instead, guests take an elevator up and use the narrow staircase to descend back to ground level. Tickets can be booked in advance . 

Interesting Fact: Above the entrance to the prison is a stone carving of a woman breastfeeding a man, called The Mammelokker. The relief illustrates the legend of a prisoner sentenced to death by starvation. However, he was saved by his daughter who breastfed him during imprisonment to keep him from perishing.

#4 Appreciate the Architecture on Botermarkt

Botermarkt Square, just to the north of the Belfry, is rich in history and decorated in unique architectural designs.

The City Hall – or Stadhuis – is one of Ghent’s most unusual buildings. The large structure is actually two buildings merged together, which features two incredibly different styles. One part is in the Italian Renaissance style (with evenly spaced columns and arches), and then abruptly changes to a Late Gothic Flamboyant design (with extravagant carvings).

The City Pavilion – or Stadshal – on the south side of City Hall is one of the most modern attractions in Ghent Old Town. A contemporary take on the ancient city roofs, the pavilion canopy features 1,600 tiny windows, allowing shifting light to play through the covered space.

Sitting on Sint-Baafsplein, the spacious square between the Cathedral and the Belfry, is the 19th century NTGent Schouwburg Royal Dutch Theater. The eclectic neo-Renaissance façade features a dazzling mosaic.

Hidden Gem : Behind the theater is the Achtersikkel Hidden Courtyard. Part of a music school, the inconspicuous nook features an age-old tower and a small café.

#5 Go inside Gothic St. Nicholas Church

Visitors quickly learn that there are many churches in Ghent – and the landmark St. Nicholas is not to be missed. Construction began in the early 13th century. As it was just steps from the bustling Korenmarkt (Wheat Market), traders and merchants prayed at St. Nicholas. Several guilds also built ornate side chapels within the cavernous church.

Today, the top things to see when visiting St. Nicholas Church are the stained-glass windows, life-size statues, the artwork contained within the side altars, the dynamic main altar (circle all the way behind it) and the renowned 1856 organ. Lucky visitors might be able to catch the organist practicing, but there are scheduled concerts, too.

Bonus Tip: As you exit, seek out the fanciful façade of the Masons’ Guild Hall – or Metselaarhuis – across the street. The steeped gable is adorned with ‘dancing’ statues that twist in the wind.

#6 Walk around Korenmarkt

Marking the center of the historic city, Korenmarkt has been a popular square in Ghent for more than 1,000 years. When wheat and grains were brought in by boat, they were taken to Korenmarkt to be sold. The market square is ringed by ancient buildings – many of which now host restaurants, bars and cafes.

The most striking structure, the Post Office Building, however, is practically brand new. It was built in the 20th century as the city’s new post office, but has since been transformed into a luxury hotel and shopping venue featuring posh items.

Top Travel Tip: Donkersteeg and Klein Turkije are cobbled streets that lead east from Korenmarkt. Both lanes are laden with international restaurants and fun bars. For a taste of Belgium, stop at Fritz Tea Room on Donkersteeg, which is known for their Brussels-style Belgian waffles. Right across the way, Mokabon, is a cute coffee shop that has been roasting in house since 1937.

#7 Marvel at the View from St. Michael’s Bridge

There is, perhaps, no better place to take in Medieval Ghent than from atop St. Michael’s Bridge. Crossing the River Leie, the stone arch bridge encompasses some of the city’s most majestic buildings.

To the east, observe the magnificence of the three bell towers (St. Nicholas, the Belfry and the Cathedral) aligned in a row. To the north, the view extends up the river towards the Castle, encompassing the glittering Guild Houses that stand along the former harbor.

While the scenic vista is one of the top things to see in Ghent during the day, it is even more beautiful after dark. Travelers staying in Ghent overnight should make a point to return to this spot after the sun has set to see the buildings illuminated by flood lights.

Top Tip: Free toilets are at the east end of the bridge, opposite the Post Office.

#8 Step inside St. Michael’s Church

While the exterior of St. Michael’s Church may appear mundane in comparison to other Ghent churches, it conceals a lavish interior. Construction commenced in the mid-1400s, but took nearly 400 years to complete. Stepping inside to see it is one of the top Ghent, Belgium things to do (just note the limited opening hours).

The lush interior is adorned with marble sculptures, stained-glass windows and intricate Baroque detailing. The most notable artwork is the Baroque painting, Golgotha (also called Christ Dying on the Cross), by Anthony Van Dyck, which hangs in a side chapel to the left of the main altar.

Fun Fact: The original plans for Saint Michael’s Church included a monumental 440-foot-tall tower (which would have far exceeded the height of St. Bavo’s tower). However, due to monetary constraints, it was never built.

#9 Gander at the Guild Houses on Graslei and Korenlei

The Leie riverside is marked by two spacious quays – Graslei and Korenlei – and they are our absolute favorite places to visit in Ghent, Belgium. The pedestrian-only spaces beckon you to slow down and take in the sumptuous surroundings, especially on sunny afternoons. We recommend completing a looping walk along both banks of the river, crossing at St. Michael’s Bridge and Grasbrug Bridge.

The quays mark the city’s long-standing river docks, where goods were unloaded from ships to be sold at the markets. Some of the most prosperous trade associations built their guild halls along the quay. These age-old buildings with their gabled roofs are simply stunning.

Notable Ghent Guild Houses

While the dwellings that line the riverside are sensational as a whole, there are a few specific buildings that are worth seeking out for a closer look.

On Graslei (the east bank), the four buildings in the center are quite significant. Koornstapelhuis, recognizable by its rather squat and unadorned gray Romanesque façade, was built around 1200 to store grains. It’s the oldest house on the quay. The narrow building to the right is the Tollhuisje, which was built in 1682 as the Customs House.

Next on the right is the Guild House of the Grain Weighers. It was completed in 1698 and features a beautiful Baroque front. Today, Coorenmetershuys occupies the ground floor. The small shop sells artisan wares and retains the authentic interior, so go ahead and step inside!

Adjacent to the Grain Weighers House is the Free Skippers Guild Hall. The house, built in 1530, features a decorative Baroque façade and houses a small North Sea Port Expo that is free to visit.

On Korenlei (the west bank), the most impressive house is the De Swaene Mansion, which has been completely renovated as a Marriot Hotel. Note the elegant, gilded swans perched on the front of the exquisite brick building.

Fun Travel Tip: Relaxing on the riverside is a top activity in Ghent. While there are plenty of places that offer al fresco seating, we found it fun to join the locals (mostly students) on the steps and benches right along the water. In fact, it’s our preferred spot for a picnic lunch or a sunset beverage. There’s an Albert Heijn grocery store below the Post Office Building to gather supplies!

#10 Enjoy a Scenic Cruise

Boat trips in Ghent are a phenomenal way to learn about the area’s past. Ghent’s position at the confluence of the Leie (or Lys) and Scheldt rivers helped the city grow into a powerful center of economic trade during the Middle Ages. Boat tours along the waterways pass by some of the most significant historical sights.

Tourist boats regularly depart from Graslei and Korenlei – with the captain entertaining passengers with interesting facts along the route. The 50-minute tours cost about $10 and can be booked in advance .

Alternate Trip Plan: Rather than hopping aboard a boat tour, visitors can rent a boat and navigate the waterways on their own! Minerva Boat Company is at Sint-Agnetebrug Bridge, where the Leie River meets the Coupure Canal.

#11 Wander the Picturesque Patershol District

A tangle of Medieval streets, Patershol took shape in the 12th century. The district spreads to the east from Gravensteen Castle along the Leie River.

Oudburg is the main thoroughfare and it’s a haven of hip and boutique eateries. That said, the riverside route along Kraanlei and the Zuivelbrug Bridge are equally pleasant for a stroll. 

In addition to the cobbled lanes, the top things to see in Ghent Patershol District are the Huis van Alijn Museum (ticket required), the old-fashioned Confitere Temmermen candy shop and Sint-Veerplein Square. The Oude Vismijn (Old Fish Market) stands on the square, boasting an ornamental façade that conceals the ultra-modern space (which is partly occupied by the Ghent Tourism Office).

Top Tip: Don’t just stick to the main lanes in Patershol! Get off the beaten track and explore the alleys that wind through the neighborhood.

#12 Indulge in a Chocolate Treat

Belgian chocolate is known the world over for its exceptional quality and taste. Renowned chocolatiers – like Leonidas and Neuhaus – have shops in the city, but there are actually heaps of places that sell delectable nibbles and handmade artisan goods.

It would be impossible for us to proclaim just one as having The Best Chocolate in Ghent. So, we are featuring a shop, a cafe and a bakery – all in Patershol – where you can savor a heavenly chocolate treat.

Chocolate Ambassade is a top pick for a unique experience. The relatively new establishment has quickly gained a reputation as being the best chocolate shop in Ghent. The owners are passionate about making handcrafted chocolate morsels using top-grade ingredients. As artisanal chocolatiers, they offer intriguing specialties – as well as chocolate tastings . 

In Choc Café excels at making decadent beverages and is the place to go in Ghent for a photo-worthy chocolate drink. Plus, the café sells Brussels waffles along with a full breakfast and lunch menu. 

At Julie’s House, patrons can sink their teeth into superb chocolate pastries. The house specialty is their line of yummy cupcakes, but in our opinion, Julie’s Moelleux chocolate pie is the clear winner.

Tip for Travelers: Chocolaterie Vandenbouhede is a boutique shop the creates artistic pralines filled with unusual flavors – including a selection of vegan chocolates.

#13 Taste a Local Cuberdon Sweet

A specialty of Ghent, Cuberdon candies are cone-shaped sugary treats with a hard, crystalized shell and a soft, flavored filling. The confection is sometimes called a Gentse Neus – or Ghent Nose – due to its snout-like shape.

The traditional flavor is raspberry, but the ‘Little Noses’ candy now comes with an array of fillings. Although the treat appears to be similar to hard candy, the shelf life is rather short. The gelatinous filling starts to harden after a few weeks, so it’s best to eat them right away!

Top Tip : One of the top places to buy Cuberdon ‘Noses’ is at Temmerman. The shopkeeper helpfully explains the products (just be aware that it is a cash-only shop).

#14 Try the Best Fries in Ghent

Eating Belgian Fries is a must! The secret to Belgian Frites is that they are double cooked, in order to ensure the outside is crispy and inside piping hot. Fries are typically served in paper cones and trays and covered in sauce. Mayo is the traditional topping of choice, but we favor the regional Andalouse sauce, a mix of mayo and ketchup that comes with a little kick.

Three of the best fry shops – or frituurs – are located in the vicinity of the historic Groentenmark: Frituur Bij Filip, Frites Atelier and Frans Hooiaard.

Frituur Bij Filip is often just a one-man show. Filip cranks out delicious fries at a furious pace to keep up with the demand. The small fry stall usually has a line, but it moves fairly fast (cash only) and it’s absolutely worth the wait.

At Frites Atelier, they take the humble fry to the next level with carefully selected potatoes and gourmet toppings (with prices to match). Our favorite fry creation at Frites Atelier combines two exceptional Belgian dishes at once: Fries covered in Flemish Stew.

A local favorite, Frans Hooiaard has been serving up large portions of fries at good prices since 1983. 

Top Foodie Tip: Fry aficionados will want to track down two more incredible shops: De Frietketel and Frituur Tolpport. 

#15 Find Artisan Products at Groot Vleeshuis

Dating to Medieval times, Groot Vleeshuis is the former Great Butchers’ Hall. The covered market hall was transformed into a place to shop for local products and artisan wares (it is currently undergoing an extensive renovation).

A quirky place to visit at Groot Vleeshuis is ‘t Galgenhuisje, which is glommed onto the building like a barnacle. Claiming to be the smallest pub in Ghent, the tiny establishment was originally a Tripe House, where the less savory parts of the animals were sold.

Nearby: Tierenteyn-Verlent Mustard Shop is another excellent place to pick up local food products. The spicy horseradish mustard, which has been produced in Ghent since the 1800s, is still made onsite. Hand-filled jars of the zippy condiment are on sale, as well as numerous other regional food items.

#16 Shop at a Local Market

Ghent has long been a market city – and the tradition continues to this day with sellers filling squares in the morning on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

Groentenmarkt – which has been the city’s vegetable market for centuries – is bustling on Friday mornings with a small, organic produce market. The Arts and Crafts Market takes over the space on the weekend.

The wide and spacious Vrijdagmarkt – Friday Market – is awash with a variety of vendors selling everything from undergarments to gourmet baked goods. The stalls spread out in all directions from the Jacob van Artevelde monument that stands at the center of the square. This market actually takes place on both Fridays and Saturdays.

The nearby Rommelmarkt Flea Market convenes on Friday, Saturday and Sunday mornings, with vendors peddling antiques and nostalgic bits.

The vibrant Sunday Flower Market – or Bloemenmarkt – on Kouter Square near the Opera House is flush with colorful, fresh flowers and potted plants for sale.

Travel Tip: Lousbergmarkt, located on the east side, is a small neighborhood market that sells local cheese, produce and baked goods.

#17 Tour a Historic House

While history can be seen at every turn while visiting Ghent, it truly comes to life inside the preserved houses, where time seems to stand still.

At Hotel d’Hane Steenhuyse, visitors can tour the luxurious palace and see it almost just as it was 200 years ago. Highlights are the grand ballroom, the basement kitchen and the fine dining room.

The House of Arnold Vander Haeghen, which is just across the street, showcases the Belle Epoque life of the late 1800s. The 18th century Chinese Salon is the crème-de-la-crème!

Tips for Visiting: There is no admission charge to either museum; they’re two of the best free things to do in Ghent! However, the opening hours are limited to Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.  

#18 Gaze Up at the Castle of Gerald the Devil

One of the lesser-known attractions in Ghent, Belgium – but just steps from St. Bavo’s Cathedral – the Castle of Gerald the Devil (Geeraard de Duivelsteen) is a grandiose 13th century fort.

Built right on the Reep Canal as a means to defend the Portus Ganda, the commanding Gothic fortress has served numerous purposes through the centuries. It has been used as a meeting place for knights, a monastery for monks, an asylum for the insane and an orphanage for boys.

Although the building is not open to the public, it is well worth walking around the structure to take in the massive size.

Sightseeing Tip: A pleasant walk along the Reep Canal leads to Portus Ganda on the Leie River. Here many bridges cross the streaming water and recreation areas line the banks.

#19 Discover St. Bavo’s Abbey

While there are many Ghent things to see in the heart of the city, it is worth straying from the center to tour the remains of St. Bavo’s Abbey. The history of the abbey stretches back to the 7th century, when it was founded by Saint Amand.

Throughout its history, it was looted by Vikings and then nearly destroyed in 1540 by Holy Roman Emperor, Charles V. Despite sitting in ruins, there is a wealth of history contained within the crumbling walls.

Tip for Visiting: St. Bavo’s Abbey is only open in the afternoons on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Entrance is free and there is a helpful brochure provided in multiple languages.

#20 Parade through Prinsenhof District

Even though it is one of the lesser-visited districts, Prinsenhof is a pretty place for a stroll. Car-free cobbled lanes and a curving canal cut through Prinsenhof, which is dotted with a smattering of historic relics.

The area was developed in the 15th century, when the Counts of Flanders left Gravensteen Castle and established a new estate called Hof ten Walle – or Prinsenhof (Princes’ Court). In its day, the sprawling walled-and-moated domain featured more than 300 rooms – and even had a zoo. Emperor Charles V was born at Prinsenhof; his statue stands at the Donkere Poort Gate.

Nearby Sightseeing: Marking the end of the Lieve Canal is the sturdy Rabot. The double-tower stronghold was built as part of the city’s defense.

#21 Seek out Street Art

In a place where history is made palpable by the time-worn dwellings, it’s somewhat surprising that graffiti would be allowed. Yet, there are artistic street art murals found all throughout the city. Seeking out a few of these is one of the unusual things to do in Ghent.

The prime place to find street murals and artists at work is on Werregarenstraat – which has now been dubbed Graffiti Street. The narrow alleyway features bright and poignant murals that are constantly changing as artists paint over old pieces.

Note that the enclosed green space visible from Graffiti Street is actually open to the public and can be accessed via the gate at Onderstraat #22.

Top Tip: There is also Graffiti Alley near the university campus. While not as robust as the artwork on Graffiti Street, the cycle-themed murals that decorated the walls of Tweebruggenstraat during our visit were very entertaining.

#22 Savor the Sumptuous Interior of St. James Church

The magnificent St. James Church – Sint-Jacobskerk – is one of the underrated Ghent places to visit. 

Built in the 12th century in the Romanesque style, the church has seen considerable renovations that have altered its appearance, resulting in a mashup of architecture. The richly decorated interior features numerous grand paintings and two mausoleums of local obstetrician Jan Palfijn (who is credited with inventing the forceps).

Interesting Fact: St. James is a pilgrimage church of the Camino de Santiago de Compostela. Note the scallop shells that lead pilgrims to a specific side altar as they make their journey to Spain.

#23 Enter a Beautiful Beginhof in the City of Ghent

A Beginhof – or Beguinage – is an encircled community that once housed pious women (often widows), who were devout Christians, but did not take the vows of a nun. The communal villages date to the 13th century and feature harmonious dwellings, a central park and a church.

The Small Beguinage Onze-Lieve-Vrouw Ter Hoyen can trace its history to the year 1235. The community was established by the Countess of Flanders and is one of the best-preserved of its kind. It is open to visitors daily from early in the morning until late at night.

The Great Beguinage of Sint-Elisabeth, which is a jaunt from the city center, was founded in the late-1800s and was large enough to house 600 women. Entry is limited to Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday mornings.

The Old Beguinage of Sint-Elizabeth is located near Prinsenhof, but it is no longer enclosed. Regardless, the public space still retains a serene and peaceful atmosphere.

Fun Fact: The Beginhof in Ghent are so well preserved that two (Onze-Lieve-Vrouw Ter Hoyen and the Great Beguinage of St. Elisabeth) have gained UNESCO Heritage status.

#24 Peruse the Prime Shopping Spots

The markets in Ghent are fun for browsing, but shopping isn’t limited to weekend bazaars. The city hosts a number of picturesque shopping lanes and commercial retail outlets.

In our opinion, the best shopping in Ghent is in the area to the south of St. Nicholas Church. The pedestrian lane, Veldstraat, is lined with boutique fashion shops and specialty stores. Recognized brands take up residence at the Gent Zuid Shopping Mall. Independent retailers can be found at Dok Noord, a repurposed factory on the north side of the city.

Trip Planning Tip: Many shops are closed on Sundays.

#25 Museum Hop in Citadel Park

A gorgeous green space to the south of the city center, Citadelpark was established in 1875 on the site of the former Dutch Citadel of Ghent.

Two of the best museums in Ghent – the SMAK Museum of Contemporary Art and MSK Art Museum – are located on the northeastern tip of the park. Other museums nearby are the GUM Science Museum and the STAM Ghent City Museum.

Budget Tip: The above-mentioned museums all require an entry fee, however, there are discounts for children and students.

#26 Stop to Smell the Flowers at the Plantentuin

Visiting the university botanical garden, Plantentuin, should definitely be on your Ghent To Do list! Adjacent to Citadel Park, the space includes twisting paths, colorful flowers, a pretty pond and three greenhouses.

Sitting on 7 acres of land, the botanic garden features more than 10,000 plant varietals – including a Giant Sequoia that towers over the entrance. There is no charge to visit the botanic garden – even the greenhouses – and there are free bathrooms, too.

Travel Tip: Two more Ghent city parks are located just a few blocks away. Muinkpark, which features wooden animal carvings and a playground, is fabulous for kids. The long and narrow Koning Albertpark (also called Zuidpark), is the site of a former train station, but today is a beautiful green space.

#27 Pause at St. Peter’s Abbey and Church

We know, we know. We have already suggested seeing quite a few churches in Ghent, Belgium. However, Saint Peter’s is a church and an abbey – and together they are strikingly beautiful!

Established at the same time and by the same missionary as St. Bavo’s Abbey, Saint Peter’s Abbey is drenched in history. Since the 7th century, it has survived invasions, reformations, revolutions and renovations.

Today, the site also hosts a museum and exhibition space (but the cloisters, vineyard and garden are free to visit). The church itself is richly decorated with statues, paintings and gilded ornamentation.

Tip for Sightseeing: After visiting St. Peter’s, spend some time exploring Ghent University Campus. The youthful district is awash with fun bars (check out Overpoortstraat) and contemporary architecture (like the De Krook Library).

#28 Partake in a Ghent Experience

In addition to seeing the numerous sights and attractions in Ghent, visitors can also join in fun experiences. 

Foodie Walking Tour: Make the most of your time in Ghent by joining a highly rated sightseeing tour that includes multiple bites and sips! A local guide leads the way to the astounding sights, while making five food stops along the route. Reserve your space!

Urban Bike Ride: See the top sights and then get off the beaten path on two wheels! Pedal alongside a local to find the best landmarks and hidden gems on this small group tour. Find out more!

Beer Walk: Learn about Ghent and Belgian beers on an excursion with a knowledgeable guide. The tour includes five beer samples, each at a different establishment. Get the details!

Top Tip: Find more guided experiences in Ghent on Get Your Guide !

#29 Get a Taste of Ghent Waterzooi

Perhaps the most popular food in Ghent, Waterzooi is a creamy stew made with chicken (or fish) and hearty root vegetables. Sometimes called Gentse Waterzooi, it was created here in the 13th century. Many restaurants in Ghent serve Waterzooi stew, but ‘t Vosken is one of the prime places to try the dish.

Budget Tip: Eating out in Ghent can be very expensive. Expect a bowl of stew to cost more than $20. Your best bet for cheap eats in Ghent (besides fries!) are at Souplounge and Bocca (for pasta).

#30 Sip Belgian Beer

After a long day of sightseeing, we recommend heading to one of the best beer bars in Ghent to sip a classic Belgian brew.

While visitors are absolutely spoiled for choice, one of the best pubs in Ghent is Dulle Griet. Offering more than 500 choices, they serve everything from Belgian Trappist beers to fruity lambic creations to obscure brews.

That said, their most popular offering is the Max Beer of the House, which comes in a 1.2-liter glass fitted in a wooden handle. As a deposit, they require a shoe in exchange for the glassware!

Craft Beer Tip: Belgian-style beers are not the only option, as there are a few modern breweries in Ghent. Dok Brewing Co and Stroom Brouwers both have an impressive range of beers. Ghent Gruut Brewery uses herbs – rather than hops – to produce their brews.

Map of Ghent Things To See and Do

Use this Google Map for an interactive version of our Ghent Map below.

Ghent Travel Tips

With our list of the top things to do in Ghent, Belgium, you are well on your way to preparing your perfect trip! 

Planning What To Do in Ghent

As you begin making reservations and booking tours, you will need to stay on top of the details. Keep your vacation plans organized with our Printable Travel Planner .

When To Go to Ghent

We believe there’s a reason to visit Ghent in every season! Summertime is the busiest – especially around the 10-day Ghent Festivities (held in July) – and the weather is typically sunny and warm.

The autumn brings cooler temperatures and the Ghent Film Festival in October. While winter will be cold, the Ghent Christmas Market is merry and bright. Springtime can bring wild weather, but the flowers in bloom are sensational.

When planning when to go to Ghent, also bear in mind the day of week. Many shops are closed on Sundays, but some museums and sights are only open on weekends.

Getting To Ghent

Ghent is easily reached by train. The main train station is Gent-Sint-Pieters, southwest of the center. Frequent trains connect Ghent to Brussels (35 mins) and Bruges (30 mins). To get from the train station to the city, it’s best to ride a bus or tram.

There are no direct flights to Ghent. The closest airport is Brussels (BRU). Before hoping on Skyscanner , read our tested Tips for Booking Flights . To get from Brussels International Airport to Ghent, there is a direct train which takes about 45 minutes.

Getting Around 

Once in the city center, walking is typically the best way to get around Ghent. That said, there is a robust public transit system that includes both buses and trams. During the summer months, water taxis are available to shuttle passengers around town via the river and canals. 

Where To Stay

We believe the best places to stay in Ghent are in the city center. For our extended visit, we opted to book an Airbnb . However, there are many hotels in Ghent at a range of prices.

One of the best Ghent hotels is Yalo Urban Boutique Hotel. It’s just steps from the main attractions, but not on a noisy square, Yalo is hip and chic. In addition to the prime location, travelers love the spacious rooms and friendly staff. Check rates and availability!

Still searching for the right hotel? We share money-saving advice in our article, Booking Hotels for Cheap .

What To Pack

Okay, it’s finally time to discuss what to pack for your trip! So grab your FREE Packing Checklist and let’s get to it.

Durable Shoes

Be absolutely certain to pack a pair of comfy shoes, as you will need them to conquer those cobblestone streets! The best travel shoes are also lightweight and versatile – like my favorite trainers .

Travel Camera

Capture the beauty of Belgium with a real travel camera for high quality photos. We shoot with a Canon Rebel  and a 18-135mm lens . For a DSLR, it is very affordable and comes with great accessories – making it one of the best cameras for budget travelers .

While touring Belgium, you will want to carry a good day bag to organize and secure all your everyday travel items . We recommend using a zippered day pack to ensure your personal items don’t get lost or pickpocketed . 

More of Belgium and Beyond

Ghent is ideally located for day trips and regional adventures. Our detailed and honest travel guides are designed to help you easily plan your Vacation to Europe .

• What To See in Brussels in a Day
• Things To Do with One Day in Bruges
• Top Beer Bars in Bruges
• Best of Antwerp in One Day
• Ultimate Belgium 1-Week Itinerary 
• One Week in Paris , 3 Day Amsterdam Itinerary and The Best of London on a Budget

Start planning your trip to Belgium ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel planning tips? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more advice – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page !

Pin it! See all of our travel pins on our JetSetting Fools Pinterest Board .

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My Favorite 20 Things to do in Ghent | For first-time visitors

For such a small city, Ghent certainly packs a lot of incredible sights. I found Ghent to be a very walkable and compact city, with most of its charms and attractions within short walking distances, located in the centre of the city.

The historic city centre is a car-free zone, and people walk or cycle everywhere. The cobblestone streets are pretty spectacular, with historic buildings scattered all over the place. Ghent is definitely one of the most beautiful cities in Europe .

Tip: To get around the city, I recommend purchasing a CityCard , which offers free rides and discounted access to various tourist sites and bike rental shops. It costs €38 for a 48 hour pass and €44 for 72 hours hour pass and can be purchased online.

If you’re wondering what to do in Ghent, I’ve got you covered. Here are some of the top things to do in Ghent. I’m 100% convinced you’ll not be disappointed.

Tip: If you have the time, don’t forget to add Brugge on your itinerary. You can see the main attractions in this incredible city in just one day. Here’s a one-day itinerary for you!

Best things to do in Ghent

20. cross st. michael’s bridge.

By far one of the best free things to in Ghent is to cross the majestic St Michael’s Bridge. Spanning across the Leie River in the heart of the city, this cobblestone-paved, stone bridge captures the charming medieval beauty of Ghent in every direction you look. It also captured my heart. 

Picturesque buildings line the riverside quays while tourist boats cruise along the river with the grand Gothic St. Michael’s Church to the south and the imposing Gravensteen Castle in the distance to the north. A towering bronze sculpture of the Archangel Michael slaying the dragon is perched high on a streetlamp cramming more drama to this setting. 

As night falls and the lights turn on, Ghent’s beauty is mirrored on the canal, making it one of the most magical places to visit in Ghent. One of my favorite sights in the city. I felt like I was in a painting.

Surrounded by historical buildings and monuments, St. Michael’s Bridge is the only spot from where you can capture all three of Ghent’s famous towers in one frame.

19. Take a boat tour and admire the city

A most idyllic way of seeing the historic city centre is by taking a boat tour through its canals and waterways. I was lucky to have had a knowledgeable guide who gave us a brief history of each building we passed by.

Passing by many landmarks, fascinating buildings and stunning canals, we were captivated throughout the 50-minute trip, with the ominous-looking Gravensteen Castle taking my breath away. It’s only from this angle that you get a true sense of its size.

I chose the standard boat tour which costs around €10 (you can book your tickets online), but there are several other options costing up to €75 per person which include a three-course dinner and drink. My tip would be choosing a clear day and taking an open boat.

Taking a boat tour at twilight and seeing the city lit up in all its glory, must be one of the most romantic things to do in Ghent. 

18. Take a walk on Graslei and Korenlei

Lying opposite each other along the Leie River, what once were parts of a medieval port, Graslei and Korenlei quays have become major tourist hotspots among all the must-see places in Ghent. Strolling along the cobblestone quayside alongside water surrounded by ancient picturesque buildings with beautiful architecture, I felt like I had been transported back to the Middle-Ages. 

Both quays are lined with cafes, restaurants and outdoor terraces, perfect to sit and relax sharing a snack, a leisurely coffee or a refreshing drink. Boats glide back and forth along the water, while tourists take lots of pictures.

For me, the entire stretch between St Michael’s Bridge and Grasburg Bridge was the most photogenic part of Ghent. Views from either bridge allow you to capture both quays in a single frame. This is definitely the place to be for photographers and instagrammers.

17. Visit Saint Bavo’s Cathedral

Also known as Sint-Baaf’s Cathedral, this stunning 13 th century Gothic cathedral is a mere half kilometre from St Michael’s Bridge and a must-visit for all history and architecture enthusiasts. The architecture, both inside and out is nothing less than breathtaking, and is packed with magnificent artworks, sculptures and priceless religious relics. 

It’s most famous treasure is of course the Ghent Altarpiece, arguably Jan and Hubert van Eyck’s finest masterpiece. Painted in 1432, it has survived being burned and stolen by the Nazis, only to be retrieved after WW2. Standing over 4 metres tall and weighing over a ton, it’s a sight to behold.

The highlight for me was the augmented reality tour that took me back through the cathedral’s tumultuous history as if I was living in the Middle Ages. This is one of the must-see Ghent tourist attractions.

The entrance fee to this Ghent gem is free, but it costs €12.50 to view the Altarpiece. The augmented reality tour costs €16.

16. Admire The Castle of Gerald the Devil

Almost next door to the cathedral and alongside the canal, the Castle of Gerald the Devil is worth seeing, although it was not opened during my visit. Apparently it often isn’t open to the public, which is a real pity as I have heard that the crypt deep below is absolutely stunning and views from the towers are epic.

Built in the 13 th century it has all the elements of a Gothic-style military fort with high stone walls, conical towers, pointed arch windows and battlements. Over the centuries it has been used as a defensive fort, a gathering place for knights, a monastery, prison, fire station and an asylum. Despite its sinister name, I was relieved to learn that no devil had ever lived here. Make sure to check it out, it’s one of the top tourist attractions in Ghent.

15. Have a delicious meal in Patershol neighbourhood

Among the numerous Ghent tourist attractions, the tiny Patershol neighbourhood is a gorgeous place to wander around and it’s also the culinary heart of the city.  Preserving its medieval charm, the narrow cobblestone streets are lined with old houses converted into specialist shops, galleries and countless bars, cafes and restaurants, serving mouth-watering local and international delights. 

Parked bicycles and people ambling aimlessly through the car-less streets, add a sense of serenity to this already peaceful and beautiful side of town. A must-visit for any foodie. Don’t forget to try some of the beers! There are more than 300 active breweries in Belgium at the moment.

Here are some of my favorite restaurants in the area:

• ‘t Klaverblad – for those looking for an authentic experience and local cuisine
• Gado Gado – do you want something more exotic? Try this Indonesian restaurant!
• Aroy Aroy – Thai food is always a good idea!

14. Visit Gravensteen Castle

Situated along the banks of Leie River, Gravensteen Castle stands proudly high above the city, as a stark reminder of Ghent’s tumultuous past. Built in the 12 th century on a site of a previous castle, its massive walls with 24 towers, portcullis gates and surrounding moat, must have been an intimidating sight for any enemy of the Flanders Counts.

I loved the brilliant audio-guide, seeing various medieval armour, weaponry and castle architecture, but I could have given the torture chamber a miss. Fascinating but gruesome. The views from the top were absolutely magnificent. Definitely one of the places to visit in Ghent!

This castle has seen its fair share of wars throughout its history, with the latest “battle” being fought in 1949, when students revolted against a new beer tax. Storming the castle they locked the only guard in a cupboard, lowered the portcullis gate and pelted the police with rotten fruit from the battlements. 

Not your brave knights in armour, blood-flowing crusade, but a worthy cause nevertheless. 

An audio tour cost around €13 with other options also available.

13. Climb the Ghent Belfry Tower

There’s nowhere better to admire 360° views of the old city than from the Ghent Belfry Tower. Standing 91 metres tall, it is the tallest belfry in Belgium. Built in the 14 th century it is one of the points of interest in Ghent, with a fine museum showcasing its history through the various displays. These include sculptures, bells, the rotating carillon and of course the massive copper dragon.

Climbing the spiral stone staircase was a little chaotic continually bumping into people, but there is also the lift available. The views from the top were the highlight of my visit and worth every sore muscle in my legs. I would however not recommend the trip for people with mobility problems or small children. 

The entrance fee was around €11 and would highly recommend booking online well in advance to avoid the long queues especially in high season and weekends.

12. Visit the Fine Arts Museum

Situated on the south-eastern fringe of Citadel Park, Ghent’s Fine Art Museum is another must-visit for all lovers of art and culture. Established in 1798, before Belgium as we know it today even existed, it is the country’s oldest museum. It houses tens of thousands of paintings and sculptures dating as far back from the Middle Ages to the 20 th century, including numerous priceless Renaissance masterpieces.

I would have liked to have visited their studios where experts carry out restorations to many artworks, including seven panels of the famous Ghent Altarpiece by the van Eyck brothers.

Entry fee was €13 and worth every cent.    

11. Take a day trip to Bruges

With about 90 daily trains running to Bruges from Ghent, and affordable prices – €10, taking a day trip to Bruges is a no-brainer. Dubbed as the “Venice of the North”, Bruges did not disappoint. Gorgeous canal walks, classic bridges, cobblestone streets, stunning medieval architecture, churches, museums and tons of eateries, drinking holes and of course delicious Belgian chocolate.

Here’s a list of some incredible photography places in town , I’m sure you’ll love them. The beauty of Bruges is that everything is within easy walking distance.

The 83 metre Belfry in the city centre is a good starting point for any itinerary, offering spectacular views of the city. The Grote Markt beneath is a beautiful public square surrounded by old architecture and eating joints. Really gorgeous, but could also be a bit of a tourist trap with their prices. The side streets were my favourite, with beautiful architecture and colourful buildings keeping my camera clicking non-stop.

10. Party in Overpoort

If you’re in the mood to let your hair down and eat, drink and party all night, Overpoort Street is waiting for you. Situated to the east of Citadel Park, Overpoort is the heart of Ghent’s student district, with its streets packed wall-to-wall with entertainment venues, cafes, bars, restaurants and night clubs to keep tens of thousands students thoroughly entertained. Thursday nights are “student’s nights” and things can get a little hectic.   

Whatever food you may desire is found here, from kebab and pita joints, sushi, pizzas, and tons of local delights, I had never heard of. Just walk down the street and let your stomach decide. This is one of my favorite tourist attractions in Ghent.

9. Indulge in local delicacies at Great Butcher’s Hall (Groot Vleeshuis)

What once was a butcher’s hall and Ghent’s central meat market during medieval times, is today a thriving tourist attraction, housing a wide range of eating and drinking joints and the perfect place to indulge in all the local delicacies. There are outdoor and indoor seating eateries that also provide heating for the cold winter months.

Situated along the river just below Gravensteen Castle, this gigantic Gothic-styled stone and timber-framed hall is a wonderful place to wander around looking for souvenirs, admiring the speciality shops and letting your taste buds do the rest. Hearty meal, a quick snack, or some unique Belgian beer or a yummy Belgian chocolate treat, it’s all right here. 

Just come hungry.

Interesting info: The roof of Butcher’s Hall was designed to resemble an upside-down ship.

8. Snap a photo at Graffiti Street

Just a few blocks behind the Vleeshuis, a narrow alleyway called Werrengadenstraat , now known as Graffiti Street provides an unexpected change from the medieval ambience of the city. Every square inch of wall in the entire street is covered with colourful street art, making it an instagrammers’ hotspot.

Even if you’re not an art lover, you cannot but be fascinated, awe-struck and even amused at the colourful murals that keep changing day by day. Despite there being many people taking photos, I did manage to snap some captivating images. I admit it was not on my list of places to see in Ghent, but having stumbled upon this little gem, I highly recommend checking it out.

7. Admire St. Nicholas’ Church

There’s no way I was going to miss visiting the unique St. Nicholas Church, and neither should you. It’s absolutely magnificent and one of the places to see in Ghent that will steal your heart. Its 73 metre tower is part of the three towers that define Ghent’s skyline. The exterior is filled with elaborate carvings and is made of a blue-grey stone giving it its unique colour.

Built during the 13 th century to replace an earlier church, its design is known as Scheldt Gothic. It’s defined by its tall tower not being above the entrance but above the centre of the building, making it even more unique. The interior is filled with stunning artworks, religious paintings, statues and stain glass windows with a magnificent altar and a historic organ built the mid-19 th century.

6. Rent a bike and explore the city

Ghent is one of the most bike-friendly cities in Europe, and with the historic city centre being a car-free zone, Ghent sightseeing on two wheels makes perfect sense. Most of the best tourist attractions in Ghent also happen to be in the old town, making life even easier. 

For as little as €13 per day you can hire a bike from virtually everywhere. Having a Ghent CityCard , I was also pleased to discover I was entitled to one day’s free bicycle hire.

Although I preferred cycling on my own, at my own pace, there are numerous guided bike tours available, taking away the hassle of plotting your own routes, and learning about the city’s road rules and cycle etiquette.

5. Try one of the 1500 beer types produced in Belgium

Just as serious as the French are in wine-making, Belgians take the art of beer making to equal extremes with over 1500 beer types available, and the list keeps on growing. Belgium is known as the Beer Capital of Europe for good reason. Before you get stuck in, keep in mind that Belgium’s beers are a lot stronger (up to 12 % alcohol content) than the 4-6% mass-produced brands we may be used to. 

From the palest and lightest ales, to the most potent high-octane blends with brand names like “Duvel” (Devil), “Lucifer” “Satan” and “Delirium Tremens”, and everything in between, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Whether you want bitter, sweet, spicy, fruity, floral, or a combination of all of the above, for beer lovers, in Ghent, the oyster is your world…aagh, you know what I mean.

Here are some of the best beer types in Belgium !

4. Enjoy the Friday Market Vrijdagmarkt

Just two blocks up from Graffiti Street and alongside the river, a sort of flea market takes place every Friday morning in a large public square with a huge statue in the middle called Vrijdagmarkt. Keeping the tradition alive for close to 1000 years, it is a wonderful spot to wander from stall to stall shopping for unusual collectible goods and clothing, as well as fresh seafood and produce at reasonable prices.

The square is lined with various restaurants with outdoor seating, perfect to enjoy a snack, a coffee or a meal. One of my favorite things to do in Ghent!

3. Try the Ghent Noses (Gentse neus or Cuberdon)

Although Ghent is famous for its medieval architectural beauty, nobody can claim to have really visited this city without savouring a Ghent Nose. Available at virtually every food market, sweet shop or street vendor, this local delicacy is a small, jelly-type sweet, shaped like a human nose. Others say it’s shaped like a “young nun’s belly button” or a priest’s hat. I have seen plenty types of priest’s hats, but can’t really vouch about the belly button theory. 

This little local sweet is no children’s matter, having caused a street brawl leading to a legal lawsuit between two “nose” vendors each claiming they made the best Ghent Noses. It later emerged that they were both selling the same thing.

2. Spend a few nights in Hotel 1898 The Post

If you want to spoil your partner to a few nights of luxury, a stay at Hotel 1898 The Post , may just be one of the best things to do in Ghent. Situated in the old post office building, a stone’s throw from St Nicholas Church in the heart of the old town, it is perfectly placed within walking distance to all the main city attractions.

Each of its 38 rooms ooze elegance and style, while lavishly furnished with antique furniture reflecting the city’s medieval surrounds, and also providing all the modern amenities anyone could ever want. Also, the hotel is one of the top 500 hotels in the world !

1. Take a day trip to Bruxelles

With Brussels being just over an hour’s drive or train ride away, taking a day trip to the capital is tempting. The only problem I had, was that there was so much to see and enjoy in Belgium’s capital city that I wanted to stay longer.

The Grand-Place in the city centre could have kept me there for the whole day. This massive cobblestone square is surrounded by stunning medieval architecture of the guild houses, museum and city hall. The rest of the city centre is packed with equally beautiful streets filled with magnificent churches, museums and historical landmarks.

I also recommend a short visit to the Atomium, one of the most impressive buildings I’ve ever seen. You can even climb to the top for some breathtaking views.

Where to stay in Ghent

If you’re looking for good-value-for-money accommodation options, I’ve got you covered. Here are my top recommendations for Ghent!

• Budget –  Ibis Centrum  –  good location, clean rooms, modern design, good facilities
• Mid Budget –  Hotel Onderbergen   – great location, clean & spacious rooms, great facilities, friendly staff
• Luxury –  Pillows Grand Hotel  –  excellent location, luxurious and spacious rooms, great restaurant

Expecting only to find medieval architecture, beer and chocolates, I was pleasantly surprised to find that this city had so much more to offer. There are so many must-visit places in Ghent, that it’s hard to choose which one to see! As you can guess from my post, beautiful scenery followed me virtually wherever I went, with each place leaving me with the desire to come back, learn more and experience it all over again.

May the travel bug bite you!

Aurelia Teslaru is a professional travel blogger and the writer behind Daily Travel Pill. With a 4-year experience as a travel writer and photographer, Aurelia only shares travel guides about destinations that she visited.

She has been to more than 40 countries during the past 10 years and aims to explore 50 countries before turning 30 years old. Aurelia is a digital nomad who transformed her passion for travel into a lifestyle. Read more about her here .

To follow her adventures, check out her Instagram and Facebook pages!

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Home » Europe » Belgium » 16 Fun Things to Do in Ghent

16 Fun Things to Do in Ghent

By Author Laura Longwell

Posted on Last updated: June 5, 2024

Ghent may not be the first city that comes to mind when you think about traveling to Europe, and that may be one of the top reasons to go. Without the mass of tourists that can overwhelm some gorgeous cities, Ghent, Belgium, is a place where you can see the sights, wander the streets, and hang out with the locals without competing for space or being turned off by tourist touts.

Traveling to Ghent almost feels like discovering a secret. Its stunning Gothic buildings are mixed in with street art, waterfront cafes, and even a castle. There are enough fun things to do in Ghent to occupy a whole weekend, if not longer. This beautiful city is one of our favorites. We’ve had the good fortune to visit multiple times, and we can’t stop singing its praises.

Here’s a look at what to do in this lovely city.

See the view from the Ghent belfry

For the best view in the city, head up the belfry (belfort). It’s not often in Europe that you find a 14th-century bell tower where you can take an elevator instead of trudging up 300+ stairs. When that happens, take advantage of it.

The 300-foot-high Belfry of Ghent is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the top things to see in Ghent. Finished in 1380, it was the primary watchtower for the medieval city, and its carillon announced the time and gave warnings.

On the way up, there’s an exhibit about the belfry’s famous dragon weathervane, which has guarded the site since the tower was built. There are two previous incarnations of him in various states of completeness. You’ll also see a the giant bell called “Roland” and a huge rotating drum that looks like the inner workings of a music box, which is responsible for the music of the carillon. But the real attraction is the view.

The belfry is the middle of the city’s three towers, so it provides a great view of St. Nicholas Church and the old city center on one side and St. Bavo on the other. If you’re interested in getting a nice photo of St. Nicholas as in our photo above, arrive mid-morning when the sun will be behind you (and hopefully not casting too many shadows).

Tour the Castle of the Counts

One of the top attractions is right in the city center. The 12th-century Castle of the Counts (Gravensteen) is impossible to miss. With a moat and turrets, the imposing structure looms over the Lys River.

From 1180 until 1353, the castle was the residence of the Counts of Flanders and was heavily intertwined in the political happenings. After the Counts left, it was used as a court, a prison, and a cotton mill, gradually falling into disrepair. After an extensive restoration, the castle sports a unique collection of torture equipment and the odd suit of armor, though furnishings are generally sparse.

A 45-minute audio guide provides a little bit more context to the rooms and the castle’s story but is much more entertainment than historical information (it’s voiced by a Belgian comedian). The gatehouse, ramparts, keep, and stables are open to visitors. Like the belfry, the Castle of the Counts provides spectacular views from the top.

Visit St. Bavo’s Cathedral

There has been a religious building on the site of St. Bavo’s Cathedral for over 1000 years. The current Gothic cathedral—complete with its 290-foot-high bell tower—is one of the most popular places to visit in the city.

The cathedral itself is magnificent. With four grand organs, a Baroque high altar, a painting by Peter Paul Rubens, and a pulpit made with marble and gilded wood, the cathedral offers lots to see. But the real reason people flock to St. Bavo’s is the Ghent Altarpiece (which you’re not allowed to photograph).

Officially titled The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb , the Ghent Altarpiece is considered the first Renaissance masterpiece. The 20-paneled work was completed in 1432 by the Van Eyck brothers and is one of the earliest-known oil paintings.

The painting has been stolen, traded, and nearly destroyed by the likes of Austrian Emperor Joseph II, Napoleon, and Hitler. Given its age and its troubled history, it’s a miracle that the painting survives at all. Recent restoration work has cleaned the painting and removed earlier “fixes.” The colors now are spectacular—it looks like it was painted last week rather than 600 years ago.

Seeing the altarpiece requires a ticket, which comes with an augmented reality option (St. Bavo’s is otherwise free to enter). Lines can be long for this popular site, so if it’s on your list of places to visit in Ghent, going early or late in the day is usually better for avoiding crowds.

Take a canal cruise

Don’t miss out on seeing the city from the water. There are several options, but the boat we took leaves from just in front of the Marriott on Korenlei.

In several different languages, the captain provides a guided tour and a deeper look at the history of Ghent and its beautiful buildings. A canal cruise is the perfect opportunity to rest your feet and learn a little bit at the same time.

Go on a street art walk

Street art is one of our favorite things to discover in a city, and Ghent city center has a vibrant street art culture. Throughout the city, there are large murals by well-known artists as well as smaller works by up-and-comers. There is no shortage of legal canvasses for artists to show their stuff, and Ghent celebrates their contributions to the city’s art scene.

One stop on the must do list for many visitors is Werregarenstraat, now known to most as “graffiti alley.” The pedestrian street is a mixture of work. Started during the Ghent Festivities in 1995, the project is never the same from one week to the next with new tags and designs appearing all the time.

Elsewhere in the city are alleys filled with cartoon characters, bright blue bandits on the sides of buildings, and all kinds of otherworldly creatures. Acclaimed artist and Ghent native Roa has contributed works featuring his large-scale animals.

To discover the street art on your own, follow the downloadable guide from ‘Sorry, not sorry’ or pick up a map at the tourism office that marks many of the sites.

Explore STAM, Ghent City Museum

Formed by a 14th-century abbey, a 17th-century convent, and 21st-century building, the physical structure of STAM , Ghent City Museum reflects the content you’ll see inside. With a variety of interactive collections and exhibits, the museum traces the city’s history beginning in the Middle Ages and even projects what its future could be. It’s a great place to visit to understand the city in more depth.

Try the frites

You can’t go a day in Belgium without enjoying frites, or at least you shouldn’t. (Calories don’t count on vacation, right?)

The best frites stand we found is just outside the Butchers’ Hall. In fact, right up against it in a red alcove. You would almost walk right past it if not for the line of people.

The no-frills counter serves great fries with a variety of sauces. Try them with traditional mayonnaise, our favorite curry sauce, or whatever floats your boat. Escargots and croquettes are popular here, too, for just a few euro.

See Saint Nicholas Church

Built beginning in the 13th century, Saint Nicholas Church is one of the most prominent city landmarks. With turrets on either side and a central tower, it is easily one of the prettiest places to see here.

Located near the Belfry and Saint Bavo’s, Saint Nicholas is the third of the three towers that the city is known for. If you begin to cross St. Michael’s Bridge next to the Korenmarkt and then turn around, you’ll be provided with a fabulous view of these historic buildings.

The inside of the church is fairly typical of historic Belgian churches, but it can’t hold a candle to St. Bavo’s (few places can). It’s worth a quick visit to the interior because visiting the church is free, but we found the outside to be the highlight.

Explore Vrijdagmarkt Square

One of the oldest and largest squares, Vrijdagmarkt square gets its name from the weekly market held here. Each Friday and Saturday, the square fills with vendors selling local delicacies, clothes, and household items. A statue of the prominent 14th-century businessman Jakob van Artevelde overlooks it all.

Around the square is the Ons Huis (“House of the People”), the headquarters for the region’s socialist movement, and lots of places to eat and drink, some with outdoor patios. Directly behind the Van Artevelde statue is Baudelostraat, home to lots of vintage shops. We liked it most for its string of colorful buildings with ornate gables and balconies.

Have a beer at Dulle Griet

Dulle Griet is one of the top bars for beer lovers. With over 500 beers on the menu, it’s hard to imagine anything this pub doesn’t have.

Named after the massive cannon just around the corner, beer café Dulle Griet has a cozy medieval interior with wagon wheels, beer barrels, and lots of throwback beer advertisements. There are many great beers to try here, but the Max is the reason this place is well-known.

Max beer comes in a giant, specially-made glass, complete with a wooden stand to keep it upright. Visitors have loved the glass so much, they’ve tried to take them home (although they’re so large, that seems difficult). Dulle Griet has come up with an easy solution: get a beer, give your shoe.

When a customer gets their Max beer, the server rings and bell and a basket is lowered from the ceiling. The shoe goes in, and the basket gets hoisted right back up. You get your shoe back when you’re finished. It’s possibly the most unique kind of insurance we’ve seen, but it’s all in good fun. I’m not a beer drinker, but my sister loved it when we went together.

Try a cuberdon

If you’ve never heard of a cuberdon, you’re not alone. This deep purple sugar cone is the city’s signature candy. Don’t leave without trying one.

Cuberdons have a thick sugary shell with a filling of the same flavor. The purple ones, which are most traditional, are raspberry flavored. Other kinds include apple, strawberry, lemon, and blueberry. At the time of our visit, we got a mixed bag for €5 euro, which is the easiest way to try all the varieties.

One place to be guaranteed of getting a cuberdon is at the Groentenmarkt adjacent to the Butchers’ Hall. There, you’ll find two carts—historic rivals for your business—piled high with the colorful cone-shaped candies.

Visit Korenmarkt Square

The Korenmarket is as close as Ghent comes to having a main square, more because of its location near several main sights than because of its size.

On the corner is the former post office, which is now shops and a hotel called 1898 The Post. There’s also the beautiful St. Nicholas Church with its bluestone. The square is surrounded with several historic buildings, which are now bars and restaurants that have patio seating. In nice weather, the Korenmarkt is like one giant outdoor café.

Pause a minute to have a coffee and do a bit of shopping. The Korenmarkt is also the ideal place for a little people watching.

Enjoy Korenlei and Graslei

The quays of the Lys River are lovely places to spend some time. Korenlei (Wheat Market) on the left bank and Graslei (Grass Market) just across the water on the right bank have historic buildings and a high concentration of outdoor cafes.

The sites date back to the 5th century when Ghent was the center of the wheat trade in the County of Flanders. Most of the current buildings were built in the Middle Ages, although they have been restored and modified over the centuries. We’re suckers for this kind of architecture, so walking along the banks is pretty dreamy.

Some of the buildings have been turned into restaurants and cafes. In decent weather, their outdoor patios fill with people enjoying the sun by the waterside with a Belgian beer (or two) in hand. The quays are a great place to sit and enjoy life.

Go vegan for the day

Traditional Belgian cuisine is not exactly known for being light. Made up of stews, meatballs, frites, and fried croquettes, a lot of meat and potatoes is involved. But options are increasing.

Ghent calls itself the “Veggie Capital of Europe.” There are more vegetarian restaurants per capita than in all other cities in Europe, and Ghent serves more vegetarian meals than anywhere in Belgium. This is thanks, in part, to its large student population.

Thursdays are “veggie days.” Dozens of restaurants and hotels offer vegetarian and vegan specialties, and it’s estimated that 50% of the population opts for vegetarian options. Le Botaniste, Greenway, and Lokaal are three favorites that are always near the top of the list for best vegetarian and vegan spots .

Wander the Patershol neighborhood

The twisting, turning streets of the Patershol neighborhood are lined with 16th-century houses, artists’ workshops, and restaurants. For a moment, visiting here almost feels like you’ve stepped back in time.

In a city known for its food, destinations in the Patershol are at the top of the list. From Turkish to Italian and Japanese to Spanish, there are lots of cuisines to choose from. Whether you want quirky, casual, or fancy, you’ll find something delicious and welcoming.

Another highlight in the Patershol is Confiserie Temmerman , a classic candy shop with an ornate Baroque exterior. The oldest sweet shop in town has been run by the same family for eight generations. Step inside to see their classic candies. If you didn’t stop for cuberdons before, Temmerman is a perfect place to buy a few.

Attend a festival

Ghent has lots of great festivals and fairs to choose from throughout the year. So many, in fact, that its tourism website proclaims it “Festival City.”

Early July brings the Ghent Jazz Festival . Belgian acts and big-name performers such as Sting, Gregory Porter, Herbie Hancock, and Norah Jones offer concerts for 10 days. In mid-September, visitors to the Festival of Flanders come to see nearly 200 classical and world music concerts of throughout the city. Together, these two events have earned the city the title of UNESCO Creative City of Music.

Equally significant is the Ghent Festivities (Gentse Feesten), which happens for 10 days each July. It’s actually four festivals happening over the same period, featuring music, puppetry, street theater, and dance. The whole city turns into a giant artsy sea of musical and theatrical performances, including mimes, street performers, comedians, buskers, and free music of every genre across 10 city squares.

In December and early January, Ghent is all about the Christmas markets. You can eat, drink, and be merry throughout the city with champagne, mulled wine, and melty, bubbling raclette around every corner. There is ice skating, lights, and plenty of opportunities for shopping at more than 150 wooden huts spread out from in front of St. Bavo’s to the Korenmarkt. We visited six different Christmas markets in Belgium –including Brussels and Bruges–and Ghent was among our favorites.

Other special events include culinary festivals like the Vegan Summer Fest and the Gent Smaakt, the Patershol neighborhood street party, and the annual Film Fest Gent . There is almost always something special happening here.

How to Get There

In northwest Belgium in the region of Flanders, Ghent is about 35 minutes by train from Brussels, which is well-connected worldwide via Brussels Airport.

Ghent is roughly half-way between Brussels and Bruges. Some people choose to visit both Ghent and Bruges in one day , but we would suggest that itinerary only as a last resort because both cities (and Ghent, in particular) are worth a minimum of one day. If you have to choose one or the other, these considerations might help you make a choice .

Ghent is approximately one hour by train from Antwerp.

Laura Longwell is an award-winning travel blogger and photographer. Since founding Travel Addicts in 2008, she has written hundreds of articles that help over 3 million people a year get the most out of their travel. In that time, she has visited nearly 60 countries on 5 continents, often returning to favorite destinations over and over again. She has a deep love of history, uncovering unexpected attractions, and trying all the good food a place has to offer.

In addition to Travel Addicts, Laura runs a site about her hometown of Philadelphia—Guide to Philly—which chronicles unique things to do and places to see around southeastern Pennsylvania. Her travel tips and advice appear across the web.

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Joanna Damon

Thursday 20th of October 2022

Ghent has one of the most famous works of art in the world and I don't think you even mention it, The Ghent altarpiece also has an interesting history as it was looted by the Nazis and returned by the Monuments Men - not just a movie. Otherwise very helpful.

Laura Longwell

Friday 21st of October 2022

Huh? There are three entire paragraphs about it.

Wednesday 14th of September 2022

We just got back from Ghent, and I must say its one of the most beautiful European cities I've seen so far. If you like cafe culture and history, it's one of the best. The Mystic Lamb display (and St. Bavo's, in general) is one of the most spectacular religious settings you'll find in Europe. We don't go back to many places as we prefer to discover new ones instead, but we'll be coming back to Ghent.

Agreed. It's one of our favorites. We've been twice but will definitely return when we have the opportunity.

Caroline Abettan

Monday 22nd of November 2021

I'm glad I found your blog. great pictures

Jacqueline Sargent

Thursday 2nd of July 2020

My daughter has won a scholarship to a uni in Ghent. I cannot wait to share this information with her. Thank you!

Congratulations to her! Ghent is absolutely lovely. I hope she enjoys it and that you get to tag along for a visit.

Saturday 15th of February 2020

Thank you for all the helpful info. I love how it's packed with succinct info! Can't wait to get to Ghent!

Sunday 16th of February 2020

Ghent is fabulous! One of our very favorite places in Europe. Have a great trip :)

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.

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

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12 Best Things to do in Ghent, Belgium

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on May 4, 2024

Once one of the wealthiest and most powerful cities in the whole of Europe, Ghent still proudly showcases lots of fabulous medieval architecture. This is, in part, what makes it so delightful to explore. Located at the spot where the Leie and Scheldt rivers join, its gorgeous center is home to a towering belfry with an impressive centuries-old cathedral, church, and castle to be found alongside its picturesque canal.

Lying in between Brussels , Bruges, and Antwerp, this compact city is often overlooked in favor of its nearby neighbors, although this has changed somewhat in recent years as word spreads about its many charms.

Despite its small size, there are plenty of things to do in Ghent, and its sizeable student population lends it a very lively and youthful feel. With a wealth of interesting historic tourist attractions and fascinating museums for you to check out, Ghent is not to be missed out on when visiting Belgium.

12. Vrijdagmarkt

One of the main squares in Ghent, Vrijdagmarkt is named after the lively Friday market that has taken place here ever since the 12th century. Lined by beautiful old guild houses, as well as a couple of wonderful art nouveau buildings, the square is lovely to wander around. At its heart, lies a fantastic statue of Jacob van Artevelde – an important Flemish statesman.

The weekly market is loads of fun to peruse, with all kinds of stalls selling everything from local handicrafts to fresh fruits and vegetables filling the square. Vrijdagmarkt is great to visit at any time of day, as lots of cafes, restaurants, and bars are found here.

Of these, the Dulle Griet is the most atmospheric of the lot. Besides its homely and unique looking interior, you’ll also find 350 or so Belgian beers for you to try.

11. Museum Voor Schone Kunsten

Located just a short walk away from the train station, the Museum of Fine Arts – as it is known in English – boasts a brilliant collection of paintings and sculptures that showcase some of the finest examples of Flemish art.

Taking you from the early 14th century right up until the mid 20th century, its comprehensive collection displays works by such renowned masters as Hieronymus Bosch, Rubens, van Dyck, and Magritte.

While the main focus is on Belgian artists, some international names such as Boudin, Manet, and Tintoretto can be found interspersed amongst them, while temporary exhibitions are regularly held in the museum. Opened all the way back in 1810, MSK is one of the oldest museums in the whole of Belgium and is well worth checking out if you have the time.

10. Korenmarkt

Lying right in the city center, Korenmarkt is surrounded by some of the prettiest and most prestigious buildings in Ghent. You’ll certainly find yourself passing by at least once or twice while in town. Besides being lined by some magnificent old townhouses that nowadays are home to restaurants, bars, and shops, its real show stoppers are undoubtedly the gorgeous old Post Office and the majestic Saint Nicholas Church.

In addition to this, the charming cobbled square is also just a stone’s throw away from the picturesque banks of the Leie river and St Michael’s Bridge, which offers one of the best views in Ghent. A very laidback yet lively place to spend time, the Korenmarkt acts as the main square in town and hums with life at any time of day.

9. Stadhuis (Town Hall)

Certainly one of the most unique buildings in the city, the lavishly decorated Town Hall actually exhibits two very distinctive yet equally delightful architectural styles. While one side boasts a beautiful Late Gothic facade, the other displays some lovely Renaissance features and is adorned with elegant columns and pilasters.

These two contrasting forms came about because the Stadhuis took so long to build, and tastes changed in the meantime. Only completed in 1600 after work began on it in 1519, the town hall’s gorgeous interior is just as varied.

Visitors can book to go on an hour-long tour of its finely decorated halls and luxurious stately rooms. Set at one end of the Botermarkt, the Stadhuis lies right next to the Stadshal, not far from the belfry.

8. Patershol

Winding their way here and there, Patershol’s ancient cobbled streets take you past lots of charming old medieval buildings, with cozy cafes, rustic restaurants, and boutique shops dotted about.

Tucked away between Gravensteen castle and the Leie river, this historic neighborhood is a joy to explore, as atmospheric alleys, unchanged for centuries, beckon you on.

Once home to tradespeople and clergymen, Patershol is now a very popular haunt amongst the city’s university students and has lots of welcoming bars where you can spend an evening sampling Belgian beers.

7. STAM Ghent City Museum

Only opened in 2010, STAM is where you want to head if you’re interested in learning all about the city of Ghent’s fascinating history. Set in a couple of fantastic old buildings that used to be part of a nunnery, the museum’s interior is strikingly modern; interactive exhibitions lie next to multimedia displays and an enormous aerial map of Ghent, which you can walk across.

In addition to perusing the many historical and archaeological artifacts, videos, photos, and projections introduce you to life in present-day Ghent – as well as what it may look like in the future. Very well presented and laid out, the award-winning STAM Ghent City Museum will certainly not disappoint.

6. Saint Nicholas Church

One of the most impressive and important landmarks in the whole of the city, Saint Nicholas Church has overlooked the center of Ghent ever since work first began on it in the early 13th century.

Paid for by the city’s wealthy merchant class and luxurious guild houses, the church was constructed in the local Scheldt Gothic architectural style using bluey-grey stone from nearby Tournai.

While its cavernous interior is certainly worth checking out, Saint Nicholas is perhaps best viewed from outside. Its slender turrets flanking a magnificent nave and looming bell tower make for a spectacular sight.

5. St Michael’s Bridge

Spanning the Leie river that runs through the center of town, St Michael’s Bridge is surrounded by breathtakingly beautiful buildings and isn’t too shabby to look upon. Lined by wrought iron balustrades with ornate lamp posts at either end, the cobbled bridge has been used by people to cross the river for centuries. From it, you can enjoy lovely views of the beautiful Graslei side of the river with all of its fantastic old buildings.

Saint Michael’s Church also makes for a fine sight. The undoubted highlight, however, is the breathtaking view you can revel in of the three towers of Saint Nicholas Church, the Belfry, and St. Bavo’s Cathedral standing in a line before you. With so many astounding vistas on show, St Michael’s Bridge is one of the best places to snap photo after photo in the whole of the city.

4. Belfry and Cloth Hall

Towering to a height of 91 meters, Ghent’s Belfry offers up an incredible view of the city below. As such, it should come as no surprise to learn that for centuries, it was used as a watchtower. Completed in 1380, the neo-Gothic campanile is topped by a dragon weathervane, which has since become the mascot of the city. You can see two previous versions of the famous symbol on your way to the top.

Besides the majestic views, visitors can also take a look around the delightful Cloth Hall that is attached to the Belfry.

Exhibiting some fantastic Brabant Gothic architecture, it is in the centuries-old hall that the cloth merchants traded and sold their wares all the way back in the 1400s and 1500s.

Meaning ‘Grass Quay’ in English, Graslei is one of the most picturesque spots in the city; a row of splendid medieval buildings lie along the quayside. Once upon a time a bustling port, the charming quay is now a popular tourist attraction, with cafes, restaurants, and bars found along the banks of the Leie river.

Dating back to the fifth century, Graslei is steeped in history. From the quay, you can now take scenic boat rides up and down the river, learning all about its captivating past as you go.

While it is very idyllic to visit at any time of year, Graslei really comes alive during the ten-day-long Ghent Festivities when lots of music performances and light shows take place on its banks.

2. St. Bavo’s Cathedral

An enduring symbol of Ghent’s wealth and power in the Middle Ages, St. Bavo’s Cathedral is an imposing building that is home to the third of the city’s towering spires. Built in 1274 atop of two earlier churches, the cathedral features some wonderful Gothic architecture. It was here that the Holy Roman Emperor Charles V was baptized.

While its exterior certainly makes for an impressive sight, most people visit for the wealth of religious artworks that lie inside. While Rubens’ Saint Bavo enters the Convent at Ghent and de Crayer’s St Macarius of Gent are masterpieces in their own right, the real show stopper is The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb.

Painted by Hubert and Jan van Eyck in the 15th century, the Ghent Altarpiece, as it is also known, is renowned around the world and is one of the greatest artworks to come from Belgium. As such, it is definitely worth checking out. The story behind it is just as fascinating as the marvelous painting itself.

1. Gravensteen

One of the main landmarks in the city, the 12th-century Gravensteen looks appropriately castle-like. A solid keep and gatehouse are protected by ramparts, towers, and a moat. Built to house the Counts of Flanders, the castle was completed in 1180, and the design is based on other fortresses that Count Philip saw while off on the crusades.

While its once intimidating battlements and turrets now make for some fabulous photos, its interior is no less enticing. The keep, for instance, houses some interesting and informative exhibitions on Gravensteen’s history and that of the counts and countesses, while suits of armor and torture devices lie here and there.

Set in yet another pretty spot, just a short distance from the center of Ghent, this magnificent old castle is just one of the city’s most important historical monuments.

Best Time to Visit Ghent

Summer is by far the best time to explore Ghent as the sun is shining and temperatures average 20 to 22°C (68 to 74 °F). Although this is the busiest and most expensive period, there are the countless concerts and events of the city-wide Gentse Feesten to enjoy in July. You can also take boat trips along its canals or attend Rock Werchter and Tomorrowland; two of Belgium’s biggest festivals.

The spring and autumn months are much more relaxed times to visit though the weather is a bit more unpredictable. The city’s sizeable student population means there is still a vibrant feel about the place. In April and May the flowers are blossoming while both September and October, although greyer, have some amazing autumnal foliage.

Outside of these months, Ghent is quite subdued apart from around the Christmas holidays when its charming center is delightfully decorated. While sightseeing is less enjoyable in the cold, there are plenty of cozy places to stop by after exploring its magical Christmas market and roller skating about its rink.

Map of Things to do in Ghent, Belgium

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Exploring Belgium: One-Day Travel Itinerary

• Last updated Jun 22, 2024
• Difficulty Intemediate

• Category Travel

Belgium is a small country with a lot to offer. From its compact size and tight public transport networks to its famous food and rich history, Belgium is a great place to visit for a day. Here are some of the best places to visit on a day trip to Belgium:

- Brussels: The capital of Belgium and the administrative centre of the European Union, Brussels is a vibrant city with stunning architecture, including one of Europe's grandest squares. It's also known for its delicious food and drinks, such as waffles, chocolate, and beer.

- Bruges: A perfectly preserved Gothic city with charming cobblestone streets, cosy squares, dreamy canals, divine chocolate, and unbeatable beer.

- Antwerp: A gentrified port city with excellent museums, Belgium's best fashion, and a mix of urban grittiness and youthful trendiness.

- Ghent: A pleasant and lively university city with a historic quarter and breathtaking Van Eyck altarpiece in its massive cathedral.

- Flanders Fields: Infamous WWI battlefields near Ypres, spread across idyllic Belgian countryside, with artillery craters, memorials, and cemeteries.

- Liège: A city with a rich history and culture, known for its beautiful architecture and lively atmosphere.

- Namur: A charming city with a picturesque citadel and a vibrant cultural scene.

With its excellent transportation system, Belgium is a great country to explore, even if you only have a day. So, whether you're interested in history, culture, food, or just exploring new places, Belgium is definitely worth considering for your next day trip!

What You'll Learn

Belgian countryside.

• Grand Place (Grote Markt): This is one of the most picturesque central squares in all of Europe. It is home to the Guild Houses, which represent the power of the craft guilds that were once a huge part of Belgian and European economic life. The Grand Place also houses the Gothic Brussels Town Hall, the only remaining medieval building in the Central Square.
• Manneken Pis: This small bronze statue of a boy urinating into a fountain has become a symbol of the city. It embodies the sense of humour of the people of Brussels and signifies the city's proud independence.
• Atomium: This unique structure was built for the 1958 World's Fair and has become a popular tourist attraction. It features a museum inside and offers panoramic views of the city from the top sphere.
• Parc du Cinquantenaire: This 30-hectare urban park offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city. It features lush gardens, ponds, a large monument, and a variety of museums, including the Royal Army and Military History Museum, and the Art and History Museum.
• Taste Belgian cuisine: Brussels is known for its delicious food, including mussels, fries, chocolate, and waffles. Be sure to try some local specialties like moules-frites (mussels and fries) and carbonade flamande (beef stew).
• Visit a chocolate shop: Belgian chocolate is world-renowned, and there are many chocolate shops in Brussels to choose from. Some popular options include Corné Port-Royal Brussels, Passion Chocolat, and Chocolaterie Mary.
• Explore the city's art and museums: Brussels has a thriving art scene, with many galleries and street art throughout the city. The Magritte Museum, for example, houses the largest collection of works by the famous Belgian surrealist artist, René Magritte.
• Palais Royale: This 18th-century palace is the official residence of the Belgian Royal Family and is open to the public. Visitors can take a tour of the impressive rooms and galleries, including the throne room and the King's garden.
• Belgian Comic Strip Center: This unique museum is dedicated to Belgian comic strips and features artwork and exhibits from some of the world's most popular and influential comic book artists.
• Notre Dame du Sablon: This gothic church, located in the centre of Brussels, has been a landmark since the early 1400s. It features stunning architecture, statues, and art, as well as high ceilings.

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Market Square and the Belfry Tower

The Market Square, with its colourful Gothic buildings, is a sight to behold. It's home to popular sites like the Bruges Town Hall and the Belfry Tower. Horse-drawn carriages are also available in the square, offering a unique way to explore the city. The Belfry Tower, with its 366 steps, offers a panoramic view of the city and is a must-visit.

Burg Square

Located next to Market Square, Burg Square boasts impressive Gothic architecture and is home to the City Hall and the Basilica of the Holy Blood, a 12th-century church that houses a relic of the Holy Blood.

Minnewater Park and Lake

Minnewater Park offers a serene natural oasis with a lake in the heart of Bruges. The lake, known as "Lake of Love," is a romantic spot with weeping willows and swans. It's a great place for people-watching and enjoying the outdoors.

Rozenhoedkaai

Rozenhoedkaai is a small quay and one of the most photogenic spots in Bruges. It showcases Gothic architecture, canals, and graceful swans. It's no wonder that it's one of the most photographed areas of the city.

Belgian Beer and Chocolate

No trip to Bruges is complete without indulging in some famous Belgian beer and chocolate. For beer, you can visit a bar like 2be Beer Wall or go on a brewery tour. As for chocolate, Chocolatier Dumon is a popular choice with several branches across the city.

Canal Cruise

A canal cruise is a unique way to explore Bruges and gain access to hidden corners of the city. These boat tours offer a different perspective of the medieval buildings and bridges.

Sint Anne's Quarter

Exploring the quaint and quiet cobblestone streets of Sint Anne's Quarter is a must. It's a great area to escape the crowds and enjoy the charm of the city.

So, if you're planning a day trip to Belgium, Bruges offers a wealth of history, stunning architecture, and unique cultural experiences, all within a compact and walkable area.

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• Explore the Castle of the Counts (Gravensteen): This 12th-century castle, also known as "Castle of the Counts" in Dutch, was built for the Count of Flanders. It now houses the Arms Museum and the Museum of Judicial Objects, displaying weapons and contraptions used for punishment during the medieval period. Don't miss the rooftop for panoramic views of the city.
• Admire St. Bavo's Cathedral: This majestic 11th-century cathedral is an iconic landmark in Ghent. It is home to "The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb," a renowned altarpiece painted by the Flemish Primitives in the early 15th century.
• Stroll along the Graslei and Korenlei: These quays along the Leie River are considered one of the most beautiful places in the city. Enjoy the medieval architecture and the charming cafes along the river.
• Discover Patershol: Get lost in the cobblestone alleys of this picturesque neighbourhood, formerly home to leather tradesmen. Patershol is dotted with boutique shops and restaurants, offering a glimpse into Ghent's past.
• Visit St. Michael's Bridge: This bridge offers a fairy-tale-like view of the city and is the perfect spot for capturing the iconic Medieval Towers of Ghent in one frame: St. Nicholas' Church, the Belfry of Ghent, and St. Bavo's Cathedral.
• Climb the Ghent Belfry: Standing tall at 91 meters, the Ghent Belfry is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the tallest belfry in Belgium. Climb to the top for breathtaking views and to see the copper dragon, the city's fiery mascot.
• Indulge in Local Belgian Beers: Beer is a must-try in Belgium, and Ghent has plenty to offer. Try the famous Gruut beer or fruity varieties like Lindeman's Apple beer. Don't miss the traditional Flemish dish, "waterzooi," a Belgian delicacy.
• Take a Canal Cruise: Explore Ghent from a different perspective by hopping on a canal cruise. It's a wonderful way to learn about the city's history and admire its beauty from the water.

With its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture, Ghent is a delightful destination for a day trip. It offers a unique blend of the old and the new, ensuring there is something for everyone.

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Here's a suggested itinerary for spending a day in Antwerp:

• Arrive at the beautiful Antwerpen-Centraal train station, one of the most beautiful in the world.
• Explore the historic city centre, including the market square with its 16th-century guildhalls, Antwerp City Hall, and the Brabo Fountain.
• Visit the Cathedral of Our Lady, an ecclesiastical building consecrated in the 16th century, featuring artworks by Rubens.
• Stroll through Groenplaats, a lively square with a statue of Paul Rubens and a magnificent view of the Cathedral.
• Enjoy a vegan or vegetarian meal at Konditori, or try the famous Belgian fries at Frituur n°1.
• Visit the Plantin-Moretus Museum, a fascinating museum dedicated to the history of printing and publishing.
• Explore the hidden gems of Antwerp, such as the Sint-Pauluskerk, a stunning Gothic-style church with beautiful artworks and sculptures.
• Enjoy the view from the MAS Museum, a striking modern building located by the River Scheldt.
• Visit Het Steen, an ancient 11th-century fortress with a visitor centre, museum, and panoramic viewing terrace.
• Have a beer at Het Elfde Gebod, a unique bar filled with religious statues and eclectic décor.
• Stroll through the Grote Markt, a vibrant square surrounded by stunning 16th-century buildings, including the Brabo Fountain and the ornate City Hall.
• Sample some traditional Belgian beers at pubs like Paters Vaetje, Quinten Matsijs, or Cafe Kulminator.

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Belgium is known for its picturesque countryside, which makes up much of the country. From rolling hills and lush forests to charming villages and historic towns, there's plenty to explore beyond the well-known cities. Here's a guide to some of the best places to visit in the Belgian countryside for a day:

Located in the Ardennes region, Spa is often referred to as the "Pearl of the Ardennes". It is famous for its abundant mineral-rich thermal waters, wellness centres, and hot springs. Beyond relaxation, Spa also offers historical attractions such as a 19th-century casino and the Formula One Belgian Grand Prix.

Nestled in the Ardennes forest, Durbuy is known as the smallest town in the world. Its cobblestone streets are lined with stone houses dating back to the 17th century. Visitors can enjoy the medieval architecture, panoramic views from Homalius Rock, and outdoor activities like hiking and mountain biking.

Bastogne, located near the Luxembourg border, holds significant historical importance. It was the site of the Battle of the Bulge during World War II, and thousands of soldiers lost their lives. The Bastogne War Museum provides insightful context, and the Wood of Peace, with its 4,000 trees, stands as a memorial.

Dubbed the "Most Beautiful Village in Flanders", Oud-Rekem is surrounded by tranquil nature. Visitors can stroll through winding streets, admire picturesque buildings, and explore the surrounding area via bike routes.

Torgny, located in the southernmost tip of Belgium, offers a unique setting with its sunny microclimate and vineyards. The village's ochre-coloured sandstone cottages and red-tiled roofs evoke a Provençal atmosphere. It's a quiet place to relax and enjoy the rolling hills, local cuisine, and nearby Trappist Cistercian abbey.

Veurne, a historic city in West Flanders, was once protected by fortresses against Viking attacks. Today, it boasts beautifully preserved buildings, including medieval, Renaissance, and Gothic structures. The Grote Markt, with its mix of architectural styles, is a highlight.

Sitting on the Meuse River, Dinant is a picturesque town with a rich history. It is known for its unique pear-shaped bell tower, its connection to Adolphe Sax, the inventor of the saxophone, and its delicious local biscuits, Couques de Dinant.

Waterloo is a village steeped in history, known for being the site of the famous battle that ended Napoleon's rule. Visitors can explore the Lion's Mound and the Memorial Museum, as well as a 1,000-year-old abbey.

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Frequently asked questions.

Belgium has an extremely well-organised and reasonably priced public transport system. The country is served by an extensive and reliable rail system, with the fastest train journeys taking you from Brussels to other major cities in under an hour. The country also has an excellent road network, although driving in Belgium can be hazardous due to aggressive drivers and the 'priorité de droite' rule, which means traffic from the right often has the right of way.

All major tourist destinations in Belgium can be visited on a day trip from Brussels by train. These include Antwerp (29 minutes away), Ghent (32 minutes), Namur (40 minutes), Bruges (55 minutes), and Liège (60 minutes). For those interested in World War I history, Ypres and the Flanders Fields are also within easy reach.

Brussels, the capital of Belgium, has one of Europe's grandest squares, the Grand Place, as well as colourful urban zones and a beloved statue of a little boy peeing, known as Manneken Pis. Brussels is also known for its delicious food and drink, including chocolate, beer, and frites. Other top attractions include the Musées Royaux des Beaux-Arts, the Town Hall, and the Basilica of the Sacred Heart.

Bruges is a perfectly preserved Gothic city with charming cobblestone streets, cosy squares, dreamy canals, divine chocolate, and unbeatable beer. Must-see attractions include the 14th-century Town Hall, the Belfry Tower, the Cathedral of the Holy Saviour, the market squares, and the canals.

• Cagri Burak Author Reviewer Traveller

• Julia May Author Editor Reviewer Traveller

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10 Rodelijvekensstraat, Sluizeken-Tolhuis-Ham, 9000 Ghent, Belgium – Excellent location – show map

RODELIJV Reserve now

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Value for money

Located in the Sluizeken-Tolhuis-Ham district in Ghent, RODELIJV offers 3-star rooms with free WiFi. The property is around 3.5 miles from Gent-Sint-Pieters Train Station, 28 miles from Boudewijn Seapark and 28 miles from Damme Golf. Bruges Concert Hall is 29 miles away and Beguinage is 29 miles from the hotel. At the hotel, all rooms come with a desk, a flat-screen TV, a private bathroom, bed linen and towels. RODELIJV provides some units with city views, and every room comes with a coffee machine. Minnewater is 28 miles from the accommodation, while Bruges Train Station is 28 miles away. The nearest airport is Antwerp International Airport, 39 miles from RODELIJV.

Couples in particular like the location – they rated it 9.3 for a two-person trip.

Distance in property description is calculated using © OpenStreetMap

• Non-smoking rooms
• Tea/Coffee Maker in All Rooms

Property highlights

Located in the best-rated area in Ghent, this hotel has an excellent location score of 9.4

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Hotel area info

Amenities of rodelijv great facilities review score, 9.2.

• Toilet paper
• Towels/Sheets (extra fee)
• Bathtub or shower
• Private Bathroom
• Free toiletries
• Coffee machine
• Electric kettle
• Socket near the bed
• Clothes rack
• Streaming service (like Netflix)
• Flat-screen TV
• Pay-per-view channels
• Tea/Coffee maker
• Parking garage
• Electric vehicle charging station
• Daily housekeeping
• Private check-in/out
• Baggage storage
• Fax/Photocopying
• Express check-in/out
• Invoice provided
• Fire extinguishers
• Smoke alarms
• Carbon monoxide detector
• Hypoallergenic
• Smoke-free property
• Hardwood or parquet floors
• Upper floors accessible by stairs only

See availability House rules

From 2:00 PM to 12:00 AM

Until 11:00 AM

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Children & Beds

Child policies

Children of all ages are welcome.

To see correct prices and occupancy info, add the number and ages of children in your group to your search.

Crib and extra bed policies

Prices for cribs aren't included in the total price. They'll have to be paid for separately during your stay.

The number of cribs allowed depends on the option you choose. Check your selected option for more info.

There are no extra beds available at this property.

All cribs are subject to availability.

No age restriction

There's no age requirement for check-in

Pets are not allowed.

Accepted payment methods

Cash ATM card RODELIJV accepts these cards and reserves the right to temporarily hold an amount prior to arrival.

FAQs about RODELIJV

What is there to do at rodelijv, how much does it cost to stay at rodelijv.

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What are the check-in and check-out times at RODELIJV?

Check-in at RODELIJV is from 2:00 PM, and check-out is until 11:00 AM.

What type of room can I book at RODELIJV?

How far is rodelijv from the center of ghent.

RODELIJV is 2,450 feet from the center of Ghent. All distances are measured in straight lines. Actual travel distances may vary.

The Best of Ghent

Convention centers.

• Vooruit Ghent
• Bijloke Ghent

Institutions

• Jan Palfijn General Hospital Ghent
• Graffiti Street
• Castle of Gerald the Devil
• Ghent City Hall
• Old Fish Market
• Great Butchers' Hall
• MIAT Museum
• The House of Alijn
• Design Museum Ghent
• School van Toen
• Museum Dr. Guislain
• STAM Ghent City Museum
• The World of Kina

Popular Areas

• Graslei and Korenlei Ghent
• Millions Quarter

Shopping Areas

• Ghent Christmas Market
• Minard Theatre
• Kortrijk-Wevelgem International Airport (KJK) 28.2 miles
• Antwerp International Airport (ANR) 32.7 miles
• Zaventem Airport (BRU) 34.9 miles

Train Stations

• Gent-Sint-Pieters Train Station

Most Popular Cities

• Knokke-Heist
• Blankenberge

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