You’re planning a trip to Belgium and wondering which cities to visit. While Brussels and Bruges are popular choices, have you considered Ghent? This charming city is often overlooked by tourists, but it has a lot to offer. With just 2 days in Ghent, you can explore the city’s canals, admire its stunning architecture, and sample some of the best food and drink in Belgium.
Where do you start? Well, lucky for you, we’ve been there, done that, and we’re here to spill the beans on the ultimate Ghent itinerary with maps to find your way. You’ll be ready to make the most of your 48 hours in this underrated Belgian beauty.
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What is Ghent Like and is it Worth Visiting?
This city is like a medieval time capsule with a modern twist – think Gothic spires meets hipster cafes. We’ve navigated the cobblestone streets, indulged in way too many fries (no regrets), and uncovered some hidden gems. Ghent is like that cool, artsy cousin you didn’t know you had. It’s a city that flies under the radar but packs a serious punch when it comes to charm and character.
It has canals that rival Amsterdam’s, but with fewer tourists jostling for selfie space. A food scene that’ll have your taste buds doing a happy dance (hello, Belgian waffles and craft beers!).
But Ghent isn’t just a pretty face. It’s got brains too. Home to one of Belgium’s largest universities, the city buzzes with youthful energy and innovation. You’ll find cutting-edge art galleries rubbing shoulders with 12th-century castles, and hipster cafes tucked into medieval alleyways.
And here’s the kicker: while Bruges and Brussels are drowning in tourists, Ghent keeps it real. It’s authentic, unpretentious, and refreshingly down-to-earth. That’s why you should consider making Ghent your base while you explore the whole of Flanders (northern part of Belgium) and Brussels. You can visit Brussels, Antwerp, Bruges and more from here.
While most tourists stay in Brussels and tend to feel a bit harried in the big city vibe, Ghent is a city with the charm of a mid-sized town. So, I recommend that you stay in Ghent and take a day trip to Brussels using our itinerary and find your Ghent accommodations using this Ghent accommodations map:
Oh, and you can also go to the beach from Ghent. Just take a 15-minute train ride to Ostend, and from there take a coastal tram up and down the coast for even more exploration. For example, we visited Ostend and the marvelous Atlantikwall Raversyde open air museum.
Does this sound enticing? Maybe our own 6-day Belgium trip will work perfectly for you!
So, is Ghent worth visiting? Does a Belgian love chocolate? (That’s a resounding yes, in case you were wondering). And is Ghent better than Bruges? This may be controversial, but in my opinion it is! Trust me, this is one detour you won’t regret making on your Belgian adventure.
If you want to visit Antwerp as a day trip from Ghent, use your comprehensive guide to plan your day of sightseeing! And then use our Bruges in one day guide as well!
How Many Days Do You Need in Ghent?
Two days in Ghent is the sweet spot for most travelers, but the right number really depends on your pace and whether Ghent is your only stop or a base for exploring the rest of Flanders. Here’s how to decide.
Is 1 Day in Ghent Enough?
If you’re squeezing Ghent into a Belgium trip as a day trip from Brussels or Bruges, one day is enough to see the highlights. These are Korenmarkt, St. Bavo’s Cathedral and the Ghent Altarpiece, the Belfry, Gravensteen Castle, and a stroll along Graslei and Korenlei. You’ll need to move briskly and skip some of the smaller stops from our Day 1 and Day 2 itineraries below, but you’ll leave with a real feel for the city.
2 Days in Ghent – The Sweet Spot (This Itinerary)
48 hours is what we recommend, and it’s what this entire guide is built around. Two days in Ghent lets you cover the must-see landmarks at a relaxed pace on Day 1, then spend Day 2 exploring museums, quieter neighborhoods, and local restaurants without feeling rushed. Follow the day-by-day route below and you’ll hit everything worth seeing.
3 Days or a Full Weekend in Ghent
If you have 3 days or a full weekend in Ghent, add a slower pace, more time in Patershol’s cafes and galleries, a canal boat tour at a different time of day, and consider a half-day trip to the beach at Ostend or a boat ride out to Castle Ooidonk. Weekends (Friday through Sunday) are also when Ghent’s lesser-known sights keep fuller hours, so a 3-day weekend visit gives you the most flexibility – see “Best Days to Visit Ghent” below.
Best Days to Visit Ghent
The answer is simple but not obvious. The best days of the week to visit Ghent are Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Why? Because some of the lesser known sights are closed on the other days of the week or are open for very limited hours. Ghent doesn’t get as many visitors as Brussels or Bruges, so it doesn’t make sense for the city to open the less popular sights on weekdays.
If you’re only visiting Ghent for a day, then you can fill it up well on any day with just seeing the most popular sights. Choose a weekend if you want to really explore the city.
Getting There and Around: Transportation Options
Ghent is easily accessible by train or bus from Brussels, Antwerp, Bruges, and other major cities in Belgium. If you’re coming from outside of Belgium, you can fly into Brussels Airport and take a train to Ghent. Check all transport options and book your tickets to and from Ghent here.
Once you’re in Ghent, the modern amenities and infrastructure make it a comfortable and convenient place to visit. The best way to get around is by foot, bus or tram. Download the De Lijn app for live updates on bus and tram schedules. If you’re confident with your biking skills, the city is very bike-friendly, and there are plenty of bike rental options available. But be forewarned – Belgians are zippy riders!
If you’re planning on driving to Ghent, be aware that parking can be difficult and expensive. It’s best to park outside of the city center and take public transportation or walk into the city.
Day 1: Morning
On your first day in Ghent, start by exploring the city’s historic center. This area is home to some of Ghent’s most iconic landmarks, including the Gravensteen Castle, St. Bavo’s Cathedral, and the Belfry. Take your time wandering through the narrow streets and alleyways, admiring the stunning architecture and soaking up the city’s unique atmosphere.
Most of the historical sights open only at 10 am, but in order to see everything on this list, you should start by 9 at the earliest and check out a few sights that are free to explore.
Take in Korenmarkt
Start at Korenmarkt, a bustling square in the heart of Ghent. Admire the historic buildings and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Don’t miss the opportunity to try one of the bakeries or grab a seat at one of the outdoor cafes for a quick breakfast.
Pro tip: Come back in the evening when the square is lit up and even more magical. You might stumble upon street performers or local events happening in Korenmarkt. It’s always a surprise what you’ll find in this dynamic space.
Walk Through Graffiti Street
Get ready to feast your eyes on some amazing urban art at Graffiti Street, also known as Werregarenstraat. This colorful alley is a must-see for art lovers. Tucked away in the heart of Ghent, it’s a legal graffiti zone where artists can let their creativity run wild.
The artwork changes frequently, so you’re in for a surprise every time you visit. Expect to see everything from bold tags to intricate murals covering every inch of wall space.
Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and get the best photos. You’ll only need about 15 minutes to take it all in, but you might find yourself lingering longer. And if you’re lucky, you might even catch an artist in action.
Ghent isn’t the only Belgian city with great street art. Find out about artful graffiti and modern sculpture in the other cities too!
Visit Ghent City Hall
Head to Ghent City Hall, a beautiful building split into two styles – Gothic and Renaissance. It houses the city’s government offices. Admire the ornate facades The statues of the Counts of Flanders add a regal touch to the building’s exterior. Step inside to marvel at the reception. Don’t forget to look up at the vaulted ceilings – they’re pretty impressive.
The Wedding Chapel, with its intricate wooden carvings, is a highlight, but you’ll have to take a guided tour, arranged at least 8 days beforehand for a group, to see it and learn about the building’s history and significance. Tours last about an hour, but with just 2 days in the city, this is something you’ll have to skip.
Go to the Top of the Belfry of Ghent
Climb the 91-meter tall Belfry of Ghent for panoramic views of the city. This medieval skyscraper has been keeping watch over Ghent since the 14th century. The tower is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Grab the app for a self-guided history tour as you ascend the Belfry. There are 366 spiral steps to the top if you’re feeling energetic, but to save our legs, we opted for the lift that starts from the first floor. Start with a short climb of about 25 stairs to reach the elevator. From there, it’s a smooth ride to the top.
Before you get into the elevator, stop to see the fierce Ghent Dragon on the first level of the Belfry. This is a replica of this legendary guardian that has roots dating back to 1382, when it was put on top of the Belfry as a war trophy.
The dragon displayed inside isn’t the original weathered copper creature that now crowns the tower, but seeing this impressive replica up close still gives you a real appreciation for this fierce symbol that has watched over Ghent for centuries. This indoor display allows visitors to examine the intricate metalwork and understand the dragon’s significance as both protector of the city and guardian of Ghent’s precious municipal charters that were once stored in the Belfry’s treasure chest.
The Belfry houses a huge clock and a carillon of 54 bells. If you’re lucky, you might catch a concert by the official carillonneur, otherwise by an automatic drum. The bells play tunes every 15 minutes, so keep your ears open.
Step outside onto the narrow walkways circling the tower for jaw-dropping panoramas of Ghent stretching out in every direction. Just watch out for the wind at the top – it can be a bit fierce!
Be forewarned: You can’t use the elevator until you climb to the first floor or to come all the way down. You have to use the spiral staircase for a good part of it. It’s quite steep and tight, and there’s no landing where you can pause. There’s a rope handrail to hold onto, but if you have mobility problems, this may not be for you.
Go early to beat the crowds. It gets busy, especially in summer. There’s no waiting time for holders of the CityCard, but if you don’t plan to get one, then book your slot in advance online. Plan to spend about an hour here.
Visit Saint Bavo’s Cathedral
You can’t miss Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, which dates back to the 14th century. It’s that massive Gothic church smack in the middle of Ghent. Step inside and prepare to be wowed. Marvel at the intricate stained glass windows, and don’t forget to look up. The cathedral’s vaulted ceilings are pretty impressive.
The star of the show is the Ghent Altarpiece, a.k.a. “The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb” by the Van Eyck brothers. This famous 15th-century masterpiece is a must-see and is held behind glass in a separate room in the crypt.
You have the option to just see the altarpiece if you’re in a hurry, but I recommend that you take an AR tour along with a viewing of the restored piece. It’s a fun and informative guide to the history of the altarpiece. You can choose between glasses and a tablet and between a 40 minute or a 60 minute tour. There’s even a choice between a standard tour and a detailed tour. The detailed tour includes 4 additional AR scenes. You’ll be able to view the actual altarpiece during the last 20 minutes of all the tours.
While the cathedral is free to visit, the altarpiece is not, and you will have to book a visit in advance, with or without one of the AR tours. You can do that online via the cathedral’s website.
Plan to spend about an hour and a half here. That should give you enough time to see the church and one of the 60 minute AR tours
Lunch: Recommended Restaurant – Norma
For lunch, we recommend trying Norma – a standout restaurant in Ghent that blends Belgian tradition with modern cooking. You’ll find it on a cozy street in the hip, commercial East District. It’s known for creative dishes using local ingredients in surprising ways. The simple interior lets the food shine. Chef-driven and detail-oriented, Norma goes for genuine gastronomic exploration. It’s where Ghent’s history and culinary future intersect.
Day 1: Afternoon
Stroll around Patershol
Patershol is Ghent’s cutest neighborhood. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time as you wander its narrow cobblestone streets.
This compact area is perfect for a leisurely 1 hour stroll. Duck into the tiny art galleries and boutiques that catch your eye. As you explore, keep an eye out for the quirky street art hidden in unexpected spots. Don’t miss peeking into the courtyard of the old Carmelite monastery.
Visit Huis van Alijn
Step into a time machine at Huis van Alijn, Ghent’s museum of everyday life. This charming restored historic almshouse showcases how people lived in the 19th and 20th centuries.
You’ll find yourself surrounded by vintage toys, old-school classrooms, and quirky household items. It’s like snooping through your grandparents’ attic, but way cooler. Don’t miss the retro barbershop display. It’s a real throwback that’ll make you grateful for modern grooming tools.
Plan to spend about 1-1.5 hours here. The museum is compact, but there’s plenty to see. Take your time reading the labels – they’re full of fun facts and tidbits.
The gift shop is a hidden gem. You’ll find unique souvenirs that aren’t your typical touristy trinkets. Trust me, you’ll want to pick up a vintage-style postcard or two.
Visit Gravensteen Castle
Gravensteen Castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Ghent, and for good reason. It’s a big, imposing fortress right in the middle of Ghent. The name means “Castle of the Counts“.
This impressive castle dates back to the 12th century and has been beautifully preserved. It has seen a lot of action over the years, from medieval knights to 19th-century factories. The castle’s history is a rollercoaster of power struggles, restorations, and near-demolitions.
The castle’s reflection in the surrounding moat makes for a picture-perfect shot. You’ll find a delightfully grim collection of torture devices that’ll make you grateful for modern justice systems. Keep an eye out for the castle’s not-so-secret weapon: a guillotine. As you climb the winding staircases, you’ll stumble upon unexpected nooks and crannies. The view from the battlements is a real treat.
Spend at least 1.5 hours exploring. Use the audio guide and learn about its fascinating history, including its use as a courthouse, a prison, and even a factory. The guide is juicy and entertaining! Climb up to the battlements for amazing views over the city.
Day 1: Evening
Stroll Along Graslei and Korenlei via Grasbrug and Saint Michael’s Bridges
As the sun sets over Ghent, the city takes on a magical glow. There’s no better way to experience it than by strolling along some of Ghent’s most picturesque spots.
The Graslei and Korenlei are two stunning quaysides connected by the Grasbrug at the north end and Saint Michael’s Bridge at the south end. You’ll get stunning views of the city’s medieval architecture and the reflections of the beautiful guild houses on the water. Saint Michael’s bridge offers a killer view of the three towers of Ghent – St Nicholas’ Church, the Belfry and St Bavo’s Cathedral.
The whole walk takes about 30-45 minutes, but don’t rush it.
10. Take a Canal Boat Tour
Next, hop on a canal cruise and enjoy the city lights as they come on. Boats depart frequently from Graslei or Korenlei quays. While you can just show up and enjoy the ride, I recommend that you book a boat tour ahead on weekends and in summer. But bring a jacket – it can get breezy on the water.
The low-slung boats cruise past medieval guild houses and stunning Gothic facades. You’ll get a unique view of landmarks like Gravensteen Castle and St. Michael’s Bridge. The captain’s commentary brings Ghent’s rich history to life as you float along.
Watch out for the low bridges! You might need to duck your head a few times. It’s all part of the fun, though.
Tours last about 40 minutes. Pro tip: Sit on the left side for the best photo ops.
Time for Dinner: Recommended Restaurant – Mosquito Coast
After the canal cruise, it’s time for dinner. Head over to Mosquito Coast, a recommended restaurant that offers a unique dining experience. It is a culinary globetrotter’s playground.
The menu features a variety of global dishes. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself ordering Vietnamese spring rolls as a starter, followed by an African-inspired main, and finishing with a dessert that tastes like it teleported straight from a Parisian patisserie.
The decor screams ‘world traveler’s scrapbook come to life,’ and the menu reads like a passport with stamps from everywhere. You’ll see colorful murals and vibrant artwork adorning the walls. It’s the kind of place that might inspire you to book a flight before dessert arrives. Quirky, eclectic, and unapologetically adventurous, Mosquito Coast serves up wanderlust on a plate.
Day 2: Morning
Congratulations, you made it to day two of your Ghent adventure! Today, we’ll be exploring some more of the city’s fascinating history and culture.
Tour STAM (Ghent City Museum) OR MSK (Museum of Fine Arts)
You’ve got a choice to make: history buff or art lover? STAM takes you on a journey through Ghent’s past, from medieval times to today. It’s housed in a cool mix of old and new buildings.
At STAM, don’t miss the giant floor map of Ghent. You can walk all over it once you don the provided shoe protectors. Two hours should do it to go over most of the museum.
If art’s more your thing, head to Museum voor Schone Kunsten. It’s packed with Belgian and European masterpieces from the Middle Ages to now. The building itself is pretty impressive, too.
MSK has a great audio guide. Use it to learn cool stories behind the paintings. Budget about 90 minutes here.
Whichever you pick, you’ll get a nice dose of Ghent culture. Just don’t try to do both – that’s a recipe for museum overload!
Stroll Through Citadel Park OR Ghent University Botanical Garden OR Sint-Pietersabdij (St. Peter’s Abbey)
Ready for some green space? You’ve got three great options in Ghent.
Citadel Park is a local favorite. It’s perfect for a picnic or a lazy break. It emerged in 1875, replacing a formidable Dutch fortress from the early 1800s. Once Europe’s most advanced citadel, it later served as military barracks before transforming into this verdant urban oasis.
You’ll spot locals jogging, playing frisbee, or just lounging on the grass. Check out the cool iron and glass pavilion in the middle of the park. It’s a leftover from a world expo way back when. Give yourself about an hour to explore.
If you’re more into plants, head to the Ghent University Botanical Garden. You’ll find all sorts of weird and wonderful plants from around the world.
Budget about 90 minutes here. Don’t miss the tropical greenhouses – they’re like stepping into a mini jungle. The smell of the herb garden will make you hungry for lunch.
All three spots are great for a breather from city exploring. Just pick one that suits your mood.
Another peaceful spot is Sint-Pietersabdij, also known as St. Peter’s Abbey. It was founded in the 7th century and evolved from a simple Benedictine monastery to a bustling abbey village over centuries.
Today, its garden is a popular retreat for students and visitors alike. The abbey grounds feature a vineyard, ruins, and lush greenery. The site hosts prestigious exhibitions and retains its medieval dining wing with its old frescoes. Visitors can explore learn about the abbey’s history and view the cloisters, quadrangle, and garden for free.
Plan to spend about 1 hour here. It’s enough time to see everything without feeling rushed. There is an audio guide available, but at 90 minutes, it may be overly long for what there is to see.
Stroll Through Beguinage Our Lady Ter Hoye Ghent (Klein Begijnhof O-L-V ter Hoyen)
Beguinage Our Lady Ter Hoye is like Ghent’s very own time capsule, a slice of 13th-century pre-French Revolution life preserved in the heart of the city. It’s where single women and widows, known as beguines, once lived in a community that was neither a convent nor a typical neighborhood.
Today, you can wander through this UNESCO World Heritage site and pretend you’re a time traveler. While its church and chapels still serve some religious purposes, most of the houses are now residential. It’s a living museum where the past and present coexist.
To visit, just stroll right in – it’s open to the public and free. 30-45 minutes is a good amount of time. But remember, people actually live here, so don’t go barging into houses unless you fancy an awkward encounter with a confused resident.
Must-sees include the church (because of course there’s a church), the picturesque bridge over the Lieve River, and the herb garden. Keep an eye out for the cat statues – they’re not medieval, but they’re cute additions that add a whimsical touch.
Time for Lunch: Recommended Restaurant – Hawaiian Poké Bowl OR Fattoush
After a morning of exploring, it’s time to refuel with some delicious food. Hawaiian Poké Bowl and Fattoush are Ghent’s culinary odd couple, serving up contrasting flavors from opposite corners of the world.
At Hawaiian Poké Bowl, you’ll find oceanic offerings that swim upstream against Belgium’s traditional fare. Their bowls are a colorful riot of fresh fish, veggies, and tropical accents.
Fattoush, meanwhile, is dishing out Middle Eastern delights with Lebanese flair. It’s where hummus meets Belgian hospitality, and where you can discover that eggplant is more than just a funny-shaped vegetable. The menu reads like a culinary magic carpet ride through the Levant.
These restaurants are proof that Ghent’s food scene is as eclectic as its architecture. They offer a gastronomic getaway for locals tired of waffles and a familiar flavor lifeline for homesick travelers. Of course, you can still find great Belgian dishes too!
Day 2: Afternoon
In the afternoon, you will discover some of the most breathtaking locations that Ghent has to offer.
Visit Saint Bavo’s Abbey Ruins
Saint Bavo’s Abbey, or Sint-Baafsabdij, is Ghent’s ghostly reminder of medieval grandeur. This crumbling complex, once a powerhouse of religious life, now stands as a hauntingly beautiful ruin.
Visiting feels like stepping into a time warp. You’ll wander through roofless chambers where pigeons have replaced parishioners, and ivy climbs walls once adorned with tapestries.
The site’s layout is a puzzle of architectural periods. Roman foundations mingle with Gothic arches and remnants of Baroque additions. Don’t miss the crypt – it’s one of the few fully intact spaces.
The abbey is less polished than many tourist spots, which makes it perfect for history buffs, photographers, or anyone looking to escape the usual crowd-packed sites. It is free to visit and should take you less than 45 minutes to walk through. There’s a short booklet to point out various things to see.
Visit Saint Nicholas’ Church
Continue your afternoon by visiting Saint Nicholas’ Church, a stunning example of 13th-century Gothic architecture with its towers reaching for the sky.
Admire the intricate carvings and stained glass windows and don’t forget to look up – the ceiling paintings are a hidden treasure. Before you leave, check out the side chapels. They’re often overlooked but hold some fascinating artwork.
This church is free to enter. Plan to spend about 20-30 minutes exploring. If you’re lucky, you might catch the organ being played.
Visit Hotel d’Hane-Steenhuyse
Hotel d’Hane-Steenhuyse is a beautiful neoclassical building that was once the residence of one of Ghent’s most influential families. It was also where King Louis XVIII of France lived when Napoleon seized power during the Hundred Days. The building is now a museum that offers visitors a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the city’s elite during the 18th century. The museum’s collection includes a range of decorative arts, including furniture, porcelain, and silverware.
The highlight? Napoleon’s bedroom. Yes, the little general himself slept here. See the ornate ballroom and take a moment to imagine the high-society parties that once rocked this place. Don’t miss the cellars below.
You can visit this sight for free on your own, but the opening times are very limited and only from Friday to Sunday. Allow about half an hour for your visit.
Join a guided tour to get the full scoop on the house’s juicy history. Tours last about an hour, so factor that into your plans.
Pro tip: The Arnold Vander Haeghen House sits behind Hotel d’Hane-Steenhuyse and is also free to visit. Only the vestibule with staircase and the dining room can be visited in this mansion. The Chinese silk wallpaper alone is worth the 10 minutes of your time!
Visit St. Jacob’s Church
You’ll find St. Jacob’s Church tucked away in a quiet corner of the center of Ghent. This Gothic beauty might not be as famous as some other churches, but it’s worth a visit.
Step inside and you’ll be greeted by stunning stained glass windows. The light filtering through creates a magical atmosphere. Take a moment to admire the intricate Baroque stone carvings. They’re pretty impressive, even if you’re not an architecture buff. Don’t miss the wooden pulpit. It’s a real work of art, with lifelike figures carved into it.
The highlight of the church is the impressive organ, which dates back to the 18th century. If you’re lucky, you might catch the organist practicing. The sound echoing through the church is something else.
Plan to spend about 30 minutes here.
Day 2: Evening
Shop in Vrijdagmarkt
As the sun starts to set, take a leisurely stroll to Vrijdagmarkt, a charming square where locals gather for drinks and snacks. Here, you can browse through various shops selling handmade crafts, vintage clothing, and unique souvenirs.
Vrijdagmarkt comes alive on Friday mornings and to a lesser extent on Saturday afternoons. You’ll find a bustling market filled with local vendors selling everything from fresh produce to quirky antiques. So, if you have extra time in Ghent, come back during market times.
Keep an eye out for the statue of Jacob van Artevelde in the center of the square. Legend has it that rubbing his toe brings good luck.
Have a Beer in Dulle Griet
After shopping, head to Dulle Griet, a cozy bar that offers over 500 types of beer. The highlight of this bar is the “Max” beer, which is served in a special round glass on a wooden stand that is only given to patrons who leave their shoe as collateral. All shoes go in a basket that’s hoisted up out of your reach. You’ll get it back when you return the glass!
Have Dinner: Recommended Restaurant – Jaggers OR Pakhuis
End your day with a delicious meal at one of two restaurants, both of which are in very atmospheric locations.
Jaggers is a restaurant that serves Belgian cuisine with a modern twist. Their menu features dishes made with fresh, local ingredients that are sure to satisfy your taste buds. Don’t miss out on their famous mussels and fries, which are a must-try when in Ghent, or the homemade Huisgemaakte vol-au-vent. It is located on a corner of Vrijdagmarkt, so you can people-watch while you eat.
Pakhuis transforms a 19th-century warehouse into a vibrant dining destination. Its industrial-chic interior, with high ceilings and an open kitchen, creates a unique atmosphere. The menu blends Belgian classics with international flavors, featuring standout seafood. It’s a versatile space catering to various diners, from celebrating locals to curious tourists. Expect a lively ambiance that matches the bold cuisine.
Get the CityCard Gent
We found the CityCard Gent to be a really useful tool during our visit. It gave us free entry to major attractions like Gravensteen Castle and the Ghent Belfry for either 48 or 72 hours. The card also offered some good discounts on bike rentals and at certain restaurants. That includes a substantial discount to see the Ghent Altarpiece with an AR tour.
We particularly appreciated the included public transport and canal cruise – it made getting around and seeing the city from different perspectives easy.
Being able to skip ticket lines at popular spots was a nice bonus, saving us time and hassle. Overall, we felt it was a smart choice for our trip, allowing us to see more of Ghent without constantly worrying about individual ticket costs.
Interesting Facts About the Influence of Trade of Ghent
Ghent’s wealth in the Middle Ages came from its booming textile trade. The massive Cloth Hall stands as a testament to this prosperous era. You can still feel the buzz of commerce in the air. The Old Fish Market, now a trendy restaurant area, shows how trade shaped city life.
The Design Museum Gent goes deep to show how trade influenced art and culture. The museum showcases everything from medieval tapestries to modern design.
The Gruut Brewery used a medieval tax-dodging recipe without hops.
Culinary Delights and Craft Beers
Ghent is a foodie’s paradise, offering a diverse range of culinary delights and craft beers. You can sample traditional Flemish cuisine, such as stoverij (beef stew), waterzooi (chicken or fish stew), and cuberdons (cone-shaped candy that’s a nice treat to bring back from Belgium), or try out the city’s many international restaurants. Ghent is also known for its craft beer scene, with many local breweries producing unique and flavorful beers that you won’t find anywhere else.
Vibrant Cultural Scene of Music and Theatres
Ghent is a city that celebrates culture in all its forms. From music and theater to art and design, there is always something happening in Ghent.
You can attend a concert or dance performance at the Vooruit, one of the city’s most iconic cultural centers, or catch a play at NTGent, the city theater. Handelsbeurs Concert Hall is a must-visit for its mix of classical and contemporary concerts.
Ghent is also home to many festivals throughout the year, such as the Gentse Feesten, the largest music and theatre festival in Belgium.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best route to follow for a Ghent itinerary?
Ghent’s historic center is compact enough to explore almost entirely on foot. Our itinerary follows a walkable route each day, starting at Korenmarkt and looping through the main sights, so you’re never backtracking far. Use the embedded maps throughout this guide to follow the exact route stop by stop.
What are the best day trips I can enjoy from Ghent?
Ghent is a great base for exploring other Belgian cities. Brussels, Antwerp, and Bruges are all within easy reach by train. If you’re looking for something closer to Ghent, consider taking a boat trip to the charming village of Deurle with the Castle Ooidonk or visiting the castle of Laarne.
In what part of Ghent can I find the most picturesque streets and buildings?
The historic center of Ghent is where you’ll find the most picturesque streets and buildings. Stroll along the Graslei and Korenlei, two quays lined with stunning medieval buildings. Don’t miss the impressive St. Bavo’s Cathedral and the picturesque Castle of the Counts.
How does Ghent compare to other Belgian cities like Bruges and Antwerp for a short visit?
Ghent may not be as well-known as Bruges or Antwerp, but it’s just as charming and has a lot to offer. Ghent is less touristy than Bruges and has a more laid-back vibe than Antwerp. If you’re looking for a city that’s off the beaten path but still has plenty to see and do, Ghent is the perfect choice.
