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Historical City Centre

The Belfry is the heart of the Historical Centre. Wherever you look at the largely pedestrianised city centre, you will see buildings and monuments with a story to tell. A 1,000-year-old fortress , three medieval towers and the most beautiful double row of houses in Europe , on each side of the river, all within walking distance from one another. As well as the modern architecture of the City Pavilion and a taste of street art in the Graffiti alley . Don’t forget to visit the Ghent Altarpiece !

Practical information

Contact and practical information, contact info historisch centrum, his­to­risch cen­trum.

Sint-Baafsplein 9000 Gent Belgium

Events at this location

The ghent festivities.

Flanders Festival Ghent

Open Monuments Day Ghent

Cydonia Barocca Festival

Christmas Market

Weekend of the Customer

Night of the Darkness

Procession of Emperor Charles and the noose bearers

Family Fun during Winter in Ghent

Not to miss in Ghent

Ghent belfry, world heritage.

St Bavo’s Cathedral: majestic tower

St Nicholas' Church

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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• 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

5. House of Alijn

Museum, Shop

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

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

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

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

This article may contain affiliate links. This means we receive a small commission whenever you book or purchase something through our links (at no extra cost to you!). You can find more information in our disclaimer .

 Are you looking for things to do in Ghent? Then you’ve come to the right place!  

Ghent, Belgium is known for its grand display of palaces, parks, museums , and the historical background that comes from it.   

Today, besides all the historical places , Ghent is also a paradise for the gastronomic adventurer . With international and local cuisine and other sumptuous tours in the area, visiting Ghent is undoubtedly an experience you should not miss.   

I live only 30 minutes from Ghent and have visited the city many times! It’s one of my favourite places in Belgium.  However, if you are coming from Paris , Antwerp or Brussels , there are best transportation options to get to Ghent fast.

Join me as I list some of the most popular places I visited myself that I highly recommend for you to check when you visit Ghent.    

 In my list, you will find the most popular places to visit and some hidden gems in Ghent.

 Let’s check them out!   

  17. The Old Butcher’s Hall and Ghent Traditional Products    

Babs Rodrigus is a travel addict at heart and loves to explore her home country Belgium and the rest of the world – preferably with her wife and kids. She’s all about showing you the most mesmerising spots in this tiny European country and making you see how great it truly is.

When she’s not travelling, Babs loves to read, write, eat chocolate (hey, Belgian remember) and sing Frozen songs with her daughter.

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How to Spend the Perfect One Day in Ghent Itinerary

By: Author Sophie Nadeau

Posted on Last updated: 9th March 2023

Categories Belgium , Itineraries

Last Updated on 9th March 2023 by Sophie Nadeau

Delightful canals and architecture that looks as if it has been plucked straight from a movie: you’ll discover all this and more should you opt to visit the Belgian city of Ghent, a lesser-known and yet just as worth visiting destination than its nearby neighbour of Bruges. Here’s how to spend the perfect one day in Ghent , as well as what to know before you go.

Please note that Ghent is known as Gent in Flemish (the local language). With this being said, everyone we encountered had a great level of English and so you won’t find it hard to get by in English!

When’s the best time to visit Ghent?

Is one day enough time in ghent, ghent’s belfort, admire the adoration of the mystic lamb, enjoy the view from st michael’s bridge, wander around the old town, lunch at one of ghent’s many cafés, visit gravensteen, graffiti street, begijnhofdries (holy corner) ghent, have a drink at dulle griet, go on a beer tour, where to stay in ghent.

The best time to had to Ghent is between early April and late September. This way you’ll get the best of the weather as winters can be quite cold and wet, which doesn’t make for the best weather for exploration.

I personally loved visiting the city in April as the temperatures were warm enough for exploring but it wasn’t nearly as busy or as expensive during high peak season (i.e. July and August) .

The best cherry blossoms in Ghent bloom around mid-April and there’s a whole alley of sakura at Ijzerlaan. If you’re spending more time in Belgium, be sure to check out our perfect Belgium itinerary .

One day is enough time to visit Ghent if that’s all you have. After all, this will give you sufficient time to see the city’s major attractions, test out a few pubs and restaurants, and snap photos of the top things to do.

Ideally, if you do have time to spare during your Belgium trip, you’ll want to set aside two or three days to fully enjoy Ghent. For more Belgium ideas, check out these top Belgium tips and these top facts about Belgium .

Suggested itinerary for spending one day in Ghent

Truth be told, one of the best ways to understand any new city is to get to know the lay of the land via a bird’s eye perspective. One of the best views in Ghent can be found in the form of Ghent’s Belfort, which is of such importance that it is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This historic tower is part of the Cloth Hall, a later 20th-century addition to the Belfry itself. In fact, the Belfort is the tallest of the three historic towers in Ghent.

Climbing the tower will not only give you a great view of the town but also rewards those who climb the steps with an up close view of the bells and music box.

Located within St Bavo’s Cathedral, the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb (also called the Ghent Altarpiece) is a 15th-century polyptych altarpiece that is widely regarded to be one of the most impressive artworks from the Middle Ages.

Begin your exploration of the old part of Ghent at the St Michael’s Bridge. Right next to St Michael’s Bridge, you can also visit the St Michael’s Church, an ecclesiastical building dating back to the 15th-century. Entrance inside the church is free and it’s also a great place to escape the rain if it happens to be raining during your Ghent visit.

Truth be told, like many European cities, one of the best ways to get to know Ghent is simply to stroll around the old town and see where your feet lead you to. Some spots not to miss when exploring Ghent include:

Vrijdagmarkt: This is one of the main squares in the city centre and is where an open air market is held every Friday. If you’re visiting on Fridays you can expect to find vendors selling everything from local cheeses to fresh vegetables.

Korenlei and Graslei : These two quays line either side of the River Leie and are connected by the Grasburg bridget. They’re easily one of the most picturesque places in the city to take photos in.

Patershol : Wandering around this area feels like stepping back into the Middle Ages. A maze of cobbled streets and quaint little shops, it’s the perfect spot to pick up a souvenir in one of the little boutiques.

If you prefer to get to know the city together with a local guide, then you can book a guided walking tour like this one. Another option for those who enjoy cycling is to go on a bicycle tour like this one.

It may seem a little bit random, Ghent is actually one of the best vegan cities in Europe . Some of the top vegan restaurants in the city include Le Botaniste (this restaurant is set against the backdrop of a vintage pharmacy store and their slogan is even ‘let food be medicine’) and WAY Plantbased Bakehouse (everything is vegan in this bakery).

One of the best ways to get to know Bruges is on the water. Canal boat rides are operated by several different companies and last around an hour. I personally enjoyed taking a boat ride after lunch as it was a non-strenuous way to digest and offered a little more insight into the history of Ghent. Find more details here.

Ghent’s former castle has been transformed into a museum that offers spectacular views of the water surrounding it and the rest of the Belgian city beyond. Gravensteen was constructed in the 12th-century.

Up until 1353, the fortification was the residence of the Counts of Flanders. It then served various purposes over the years, including as a mint, court, keep, and as a cotton factory. Today, it’s used as a museum, which takes around an hour and a half to visit.

If there’s one hidden gem of Ghent that I would particularly like to draw your attention to, it’s the Graffiti street, which is particularly unique to the Belgian city and is a must wander through while in Ghent.

Within the heart of the city, steps away from the historic city centre, one street is unique in that it is one of the only places in Belgium where graffiti is not only legal but is actively encouraged by the authorities. This ever-changing and offbeat street can be found between Onderstraat and Hoogpoort.

This mural was created by graffiti artist Bart Smeets on the corner of Predikherenlei and Van Stopenberghestraat and is certainly well worth admiring if you’re passing by…

Within the city limits of Ghent today, there remain a few beguinages you can still explore for free. Commonly found throughout the Netherlands and Belgium, ‘Hofjes’ as they are so-called in Dutch were typically religious-founded almshouses where older women and those most in need would live.

This beguinage was founded as early as the 13th-century byCountess Johanna van Constantinople and is now one of the quietest secret spaces in Gent .

Have you ever been to a bar, only to leave a deposit of a shoe in exchange for a glass? Well, in Ghent you can! Pub de Dulle Griet can be found on a square of the same name.

The bar is open every day of the week and boasts the largest selection of Belgian beers in Ghent, as well as a traditional Flemish pub interior!

if you’re looking for one of the most unusual things to do in Ghent, it has to be ordering the proef onze max van het huis  (‘max of the house’ house beer).  After all, even the fact of ordering the drink is a unique experience in of itself.

Not only will you soon discover that the shape of the glass is most unusual (and comes with its own little wooden stand), but that in order to be given your tipple, you’ll need to hand over a shoe, which is then hung over the bar in a little metal cage! The bar is cash only.  Proost!

If you prefer to get to know more about Belgian beer together with a local, then you can go on a guided tour like this one. On the tour you’ll have the opportunity to sample a mixture of famous and small-scale craft beers. Check prices and availability here.

There are a number of different places to stay in Ghent to suit a number of different tastes and budgets. The city also makes a great alternative to staying in nearby Bruges as it is less touristic and therefore slightly less expensive.

Budget- KABA Hostel: This low-cost hostel has a trendy vibe and features amenities such as free Wi-Fi and bed lights, plus murals painted by local artists. There’s a wide range of rooms available, including mixed dorms, female only dorms, and private rooms for an extra fee. Check prices and availability here.

Mid-range- The House of Trade: This quaint hotel is well-reviewed and is set against the backdrop of a 19th-century building. Highlights include free Wi-Fi and breakfast for an extra charge.

Luxury- Pillows Grand Boutique: For a luxurious stay in Ghent you won’t forget in a long time, you’ll want to book yourself into this hotel which boasts a pool. Other highlights include flat-screen TVs and air-conditioning, plus minibars, Nespresso machines and tea making facilities. Check prices and availability here.

Enjoyed reading about how to spend one day in Ghent? Pin this article now, read it again later:

Sophie Nadeau loves dogs, books, travel, pizza, and history. A Francophile at heart, she runs solosophie.com when she’s not chasing after the next sunset shot or consuming something sweet. She splits her time between Paris and London and travels as much as she can! Subscribe to Sophie’s YouTube Channel.

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