Are you going to Ghent Belgium, and not sure what to do? Ghent is a beautiful city with many things to see. You can visit old castles, walk by the water, or try yummy Belgian waffles. There are fun places to explore, and the city is full of life. Ghent is a mix of old buildings and new things to enjoy. In this blog, we will share the best things to do in Ghent Belgium so you can have a great time on your trip.
Best 15 Things to do in Ghent Belgium
St. Michael's Bridge

St. Michael’s Bridge is a great place to start your trip. From this bridge, you can see three tall and famous towers: St. Nicholas Church, the Belfry, and St. Bavo’s Cathedral. The view is beautiful, especially at sunset when the buildings shine in the golden light. It’s a perfect place for taking photos.Ghent has many fun things to see and do. You can explore old castles, try yummy waffles, and walk along the beautiful streets. There are so many things to do in Ghent Belgium that you’ll always find something exciting.
St. Bavo's Cathedral
After visiting St. Michael’s Bridge, you can visit St. Bavo’s Cathedral. This big, old church is very special. Inside, you’ll find a famous painting called “The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb,” made by the Van Eyck brothers in the 15th century. The painting is amazing and loved by many visitors. The church itself is also very beautiful, with its grand design showing Ghent’s rich history in art and culture.
St. Nicholas Church
St. Nicholas Church is another beautiful building you must see in Ghent. It is one of the oldest and most lovely churches in the city, built in the 13th century. The church has beautiful stained glass windows and a tall tower that you can spot from St. Michael’s Bridge. Inside, it’s a quiet and peaceful place, perfect for a break from the busy city streets.
Castle of the Counts
Castle of the Counts is a must-visit to step back in time and explore Ghent’s history. This medieval fortress, built in the 12th century, has thick stone walls, towers, and a moat, making it feel like you’re in the Middle Ages. Inside, you can see old weapons, armor, and torture devices in a museum, offering a glimpse into life from long ago.
16th Century Ghent
As you walk around Ghent, you’ll see many buildings from the 16th century. These old buildings are important because they tell us about the city’s past. Make sure to visit the Great Butchers’ Hall, an old meat market, and the old fish market. These are interesting things to do in Ghent Belgium, and show how people traded goods a long time ago.
Street Art
Ghent is a best city for street art lovers. The city is filled with colorful murals and graffiti that add a modern twist to its historic streets.
Werregarenstraat, also called Graffiti Street, is a lively alley where artists constantly create new works. This makes the alley an ever-changing outdoor gallery. Exploring Ghent’s street art is a fun way to see the city’s creative side.
The Van Eyck Legacy
The Van Eyck Legacy is about why art fans should check out Jan van Eyck, a super important painter from the Northern Renaissance. Besides seeing his famous Ghent Altarpiece at St. Bavo’s Cathedral, you can find many of his paintings at the Museum of Fine Arts. This museum has a huge collection of Belgian art from the Middle Ages up to the 1800s.
Belfry of Ghent
For an amazing view of Ghent, climb to the top of the Belfry of Ghent. This tall tower is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is 91 meters high. From the top, you can see the city’s rooftops, spires, and canals.
The Belfry also has a museum that tells the history of the tower and its importance to Ghent. You can also read this article about the best things to do in Cinque Terre, Italy.
St. Peter's Abbey
Another great place for panoramic views is St. Peter’s Abbey. The abbey’s gardens and towers offer a peaceful spot to look at Ghent from above. The abbey is a historic landmark, dating back to the 7th century. Today, it is a cultural center that hosts exhibitions, concerts, and events.
Belgian Beer Experience
You can’t visit Ghent without trying some of Belgium’s famous beers. The city has many pubs and bars where you can enjoy kinds of Belgian brews. The Dulle Griet bar is highly popular, providing a wide selection of beers in a cozy, old-world setting. Visit a brewery to observe the beer-making process and sample fresh beer.
Local Delicacies
Besides its beer, Ghent is famous for its delicious food. Try the local dishes, such as Gentse Waterzooi, a creamy stew with chicken or fish. Don’t forget to also taste Tierenteyn mustard, a spicy condiment that goes well with Belgian fries. Ghent’s food scene has both traditional Belgian dishes and new, modern cuisine, giving you a memorable dining experience.
Plan Your Visit to Ghent Belgium
Getting There
To plan your visit, Ghent is easy to get to by train. It’s a great option for a day trip from nearby cities like Brussels and Bruges. The train station in Ghent, called Gent-Sint-Pieters, is well-connected and only a short tram ride away from the city center. The train ride from Brussels to Ghent takes under an hour, so it’s perfect for a quick and easy trip.
Buying Tickets
When planning your visit, it’s a good idea to buy tickets for popular attractions ahead of time. This helps you skip long lines and save time. Many of Ghent’s main sites, such as the Castle of the Counts and St. Bavo’s Cathedral, offer online ticket sales. You can also get a Ghent CityCard, which gives you access to many attractions and transportation, making it a great deal for visitors.
Best Time to Visit
Ghent is a great place to visit any time of the year, with each season having its special beauty. Spring and summer have mild weather and many outdoor festivals. Fall brings beautiful autumn colors to the parks and gardens. Winter turns Ghent into a magical wonderland with festive holiday markets and events.
Conclusion
If you’re wondering what to do in Ghent Belgium, here’s a simple guide. Walk across St. Michael’s Bridge for a nice view of the city. Visit St. Bavo’s Cathedral to see beautiful art and explore the old Castle of the Counts. Check out the colorful street art in Werregarenstraat and learn about famous painter Jan van Eyck. Try some local food and Belgian beer to get a taste of the city. Ghent has a lot to offer, making it a fun place to visit.
FAQs About What to do in Ghent Belgium
What are the top attractions in Ghent Belgium?
Top attractions in Ghent include St. Bavo’s Cathedral, the Castle of the Counts, St. Nicholas’ Church, and St. Michael’s Bridge.
How do I get to Ghent from Brussels?
You can take a train from Brussels to Ghent, which takes about 30 minutes.
Where can I see the best views of Ghent?
For the best views of Ghent, visit St. Michael’s Bridge and the Belfry of Ghent.
Is Ghent a good destination for art lovers?
Yes, Ghent is a great destination for art lovers.
Can I do a day trip to Ghent from Brussels?
Yes, Ghent is an best destination for a day trip from Brussels, with a short and convenient train ride connecting the two cities.
What is the best way to explore Ghent?
Best way to explore Ghent is on foot or by bike. The city’s compact size and numerous pedestrian-friendly areas make it easy to navigate and discover its many attractions.