While it may not have the allure of Brussels, Belgium’s third-largest city is a fantastic destination for a city break. We highlight the top ten things to do in Ghent.
Exceeded in size only by Brussels and Antwerp, the university city of Ghent is a fantastic city with lots to do and see. Easily accessible from Brussels Airport, it makes for a convenient weekend away in Europe.
Owing to its large student population, it is one of the continent’s hidden gems when it comes to nightlife. Furthermore, its rich history and stunning architecture are enough to occupy visitors for days on end.
With so much to do, it can be difficult to decide. So look no further than our list of the top ten things to do in Ghent.
10. Belfry of Ghent – stunning views over the city
At 299 ft (91 m), the Belfry of Ghent is the tallest of the beautiful city’s three medieval towers. Construction finished on the Jan Van Haelst-designed tower in the late 14th century, and today the tower is open to the public.
Accessible by stairs or lift, the belfry offers the most amazing views of the historical city centre below it. You’ll find the entrance at the adjoining Cloth Hall.
Address: Sint-Baafsplein, 9000 Gent, Belgium
9. Canal cruise – a picturesque way to see a picturesque city
We always advocate wandering, as that leaves you open to getting lost. And there’s no better way to explore a city than by getting lost.
That said, we understand that this can be overwhelming for some travellers. For those, we highly recommend a cruise along Ghent’s canals. The cruise lasts one hour and allows you to quickly develop a familiarity with the city before you venture out on your own.
Moreover, you’ll get insider information and tips from your local guide. And, as if that weren’t enough, the sights are truly awe-inspiring as the boat meanders past beautiful medieval buildings.
Address: Kraanlei 2, 9000 Gent, Belgium
8. Try some frites and a cuberdon – eat like a local
For some local flavour, you cannot go wrong with these foods. Frites stalls are dotted all around the city, and after you try one, you’ll want to try them all. They are available with a variety of sauces, but we recommend the traditional mayonnaise.
If you fancy some sweet treats post-frites, you must try a cuberdon. These purple, conical candies have a thick, sugary outer layer and are traditionally raspberry flavour – although other flavours are available.
7. Vrijdagmarkt Square – home of Ghent’s most bustling market
This square gets its name from the weekly market hosted every Friday since the 12th century. The same market stalls also open on a Saturday afternoon and are occupied by local vendors pedalling clothing, food, and household items.
Even if you have no interest in buying anything, the busy market creates a fantastic atmosphere that bystanders can enjoy from the plethora of bars and restaurants nearby.
Address: 9000 Ghent, Belgium
6. Explore the Graslei – one of the oldest areas in Ghent
Found along the Lys River, Graslei is a site of historical importance and contemporary intrigue. Façade updates notwithstanding, the buildings in the Graslei date back to the fifth century, when Ghent was the epicentre of the Flanders wheat trade.
Today, the area brims with quaint cafes and shops and is the perfect place to while away an afternoon in Ghent.
Address: Graslei, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
5. Street art on Werregarenstraat – a hub for street artists and graffiti artists
Street art is one of the most accessible art forms in the world, and Ghent is home to a thriving street art scene. Across the city, you’ll find works by established names, as well as those by up-and-coming artists.
Make sure to stop at Warregarenstraat. Affectionately nicknamed “Graffiti Street”, this narrow alleyway has been a street art hub since 1995.
Address: Werregarenstraat, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
4. Get lost in Patershol – with stunning architecture and boutique speciality shops
Located below Gravensteen Castle, Patershol is a beautiful area in Ghent City where you’ll stumble across 16th-century buildings that now house restaurants, artist studios, and confectionary and chocolate shops like the famous Confiserie Temmerman.
Patershol is also the best place to find restaurants in Ghent. On top of excellent local eateries, you’ll find the best in international cuisine that the city has to offer.
Address: Patershol, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
READ ALSO: Top 10 spots for the best chocolate in Belgium
3. Sample local beers – a variety of flavours available
Belgium is famous for its beer. As one of the biggest exporters of beer worldwide, you’ve likely already tried a Belgian beer or two. But nothing ever tastes quite as good as it does at the source, which is why trying a local beer is one of the best things to do in Ghent.
Ghent has several great bars in which to sample some local tipples, but none have as extensive a selection as Dulle Griet. Found on Vrijdagmarkt Square, this bar serves over 500 different types of beer.
Not a beer drinker? Not to worry – the taps also pour some of Belgium’s finest fruit-flavoured beers. So you’ll find something to suit your taste.
Address: Vrijdagmarkt 50, 9000 Gent, Belgium
2. Saint Bavo’s Cathedral – home of the world’s most coveted painting
Saint Bavo’s Cathedral has a fascinating history. Its grounds were originally consecrated in 942, and Holy Roman Emperor was baptized there. The cathedral became the cathedral of the diocese of Ghent in 1559.
Here you will find the ‘Ghent Altarpiece‘. Also known as ‘The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb’, this artwork is a polyptych by Dutch brothers Hubert and Jan Van Eyck. The piece has reportedly been stolen seven times, perhaps most notably by the Nazis in the 1940s.
One panel – entitled ‘Just Judges’ – went missing in 1934 and has yet to be found. Entrance to the Cathedral is free, but you must get a ticket to see the ‘Ghent Altarpiece’. It’s certainly worth the €4 to see one of the most coveted paintings in art history.
Address: Sint-Baafsplein 1, 9000 Gent, Belgium
1. Gravensteen Castle – the Castle of the Counts
This medieval castle has served many purposes since its construction in the 10th century. Originally the residence of the Counts of Flanders, it has since been repurposed as a court and a prison, among other things.
Today it houses a museum of medieval arms and torture devices. A self-guided audio tour takes you through the castle’s buildings and leads you to a belfry with stunning views over the city’s historic centre.
Address: Sint-Veerleplein 11, 9000 Gent, Belgium
Other notable mentions
Great Butchers’ Hall: The Great Butchers’ Hall has temporarily closed for renovations, but keep an eye out for its reopening. Ganda hams hang from the roof of this 15th-century establishment, where you can try local culinary delights.
Castle of Gerald the Devil: This is another of Ghent’s old buildings that has lived many lives. This 13th-century fortress has been a monastery, a school, and a prison, to name but a few of its functions.
St Michael’s Bridge: This picturesque bridge is beautiful in its own right, but it also offers unparalleled views of Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, the Belfry of Ghent, and Saint Nicholas’ Church.
FAQs about things to do in Ghent
Is the Ghent City Card worth it?
The Ghent City Card allows access to most of the popular attractions in the city. It also covers public transport. So, if you intend to use the bus or the tram and to visit many of the city’s museums, it is worth looking into.
Can you visit Ghent and Bruges in one day?
You can easily reach Bruges from Ghent via public transport: the train takes, on average, 30 minutes. While we think each city is worth spending a full day in, you can visit both in one day if your time is limited.
Is Ghent good for nightlife?
Perhaps not the first place you think of when you think of European nightlife, Ghent is something of a dark horse. It has no shortage of bars and boasts several fun nightclubs as well.
