Art • History • Architecture • Charm
Ghent, Belgium
How Long To Stay: 2-3 Nights
What Else To Add To Your Itinerary: Bruges, Antwerp + Brussels or Amsterdam
How To Get There: 30-40min Train From Brussels or 2hr30min Train From Amsterdam
Belgium’s Best Kept Secret… For Now
Nestled between Brussels, Bruges and Ghent is one of Belgiums most intriguing and captivating cities. A place where canals wind between medieval towers, castles and local restaurants and pubs. Often overshadowed by its more visited neighbors, Ghent feels like an undiscovered gem.
A perfect mix of old-world charm and modern creativity. Ghent is the kind of city where you can tour a centuries-old castle in the morning, admire contemporary art in the afternoon, and dine canal-side under string lights by night — all without the tourist overload.
Where To Stay
Verhagen B&B
$$
1898 The Post
$$$
• Oak
• Publiek
• Restaurant Gillis
• DOOR73
• LOF
Fine Dining:
Casual Dining:
• Parkhuis
• Du Progrès
• Le Botaniste
• Chubby Cheeks
• Take Five Espresso
• Koffeine
• De Dikke Ziel
• Kaffee Allez
Coffee Shops:
Pubs & Lounges:
• Dulle Griet
• Cafe Den Turk
• Bar Dada
• Edelrot
Where To Eat
What To Do
Must See Sites & Attractions
-
Wander through ramparts, armories and even torture chambers as you imagine life in centuries past. This 12th-century fortress rises dramatically in the city center. Climb the ramparts for panoramic views of Ghent’s rooftops and canals. Audio guides are available for purchase and are a great way to enhance your learning experience.
Tickets tend to sell out early - be sure schedule your entry in advance. -
Home to the world-famous Adoration of the Mystic Lamb by the Van Eyck brothers, this Gothic masterpiece is reason enough to visit Ghent. Even non-art buffs will feel the awe.
Pro Tip: Be sure to schedule a visit to the crypt for an interactive AR (Augmented Reality) experience where you’ll receive an in-depth history lesson on Van Eyck’s Adoration of the Mystic Lamb before seeing it with your own eyes. -
These twin quays are the heart of the city. Sit at a café with a local beer and watch the boats drift by. In the evening, the façades light up, reflecting beautifully on the water.
-
Wander the narrow medieval streets packed with charming restaurants and boutique shops. It’s a great spot to get lost — and then rewarded with dinner.
-
The belfry’s 360° city views are worth every step, and St. Nicholas’ Church next door is an architectural gem.
-
Learn about the history and hear stories of how modern day Ghent came to be as you slowly meander through peaceful canals by boat. Enjoy spectacular views of the Gravensteen Castle that are only accessible by water!
Purchase Tickets Here