What to see in Ghent, Belgium, may come to your mind when you think about your next trip. If you want to visit a beautiful city with old history and modern fun, Ghent is a great choice. It is between Brussels and Bruges and has many exciting things to see. You can explore ancient buildings, see amazing art, and enjoy tasty food—there’s something for everyone!
Whether you like learning about history, looking at artwork, or trying new dishes, Ghent has it all. The city has charming streets, interesting sights, and a lively atmosphere, making it a wonderful place to visit. Let’s find out what makes this city so special.
Best Way to Reach to Ghent Belgium
If you want to visit Ghent, Belgium, you may be thinking about the best way to get there. Luckily, it is easy to reach this beautiful city, and you have several options. Whether you want to travel by train, car, bus, or plane, you can find a good way to arrive in Ghent. Here are some of the best ways to get there:
By Train: Trains are a great way to get to Ghent. You can take a train from Brussels or Bruges, and it’s a quick ride.
By Car: If you like driving, you can rent a car. Ghent is easy to reach by highways from other cities in Belgium.
By Bus: There are also buses that go to Ghent from different cities. This is a good option if you want to save money.
By Plane: The nearest airport is Brussels Airport. From there, you can take a train or bus to Ghent.
Walking or Biking: Once you are in Ghent, it’s easy to explore on foot or by bike. The city has nice paths and many beautiful sights to see.
Best 15 Things to See in Ghent Belgium
Best things to see in Ghent, Belgium, are Gravensteen Castle, where you can learn about the past, and Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, which has beautiful art. You can walk along the nice Graslei and Korenlei streets by the river.
Walking Tour
Walking tour in Ghent offers a unique opportunity to truly experience the city’s charm and beauty. Knowledgeable locals lead guided tours and provide fascinating insights into Ghent’s rich history, architecture, and culture. They can reveal lesser known places and share interesting stories about famous landmarks in the city. Some of these landmarks include Gravensteen Castle, St. Bavo’s Cathedral, and the picturesque canals.
On the other hand, self-guided tours give you the freedom to walk at your own pace and explore the city on your terms. You can relax and admire the beautiful old buildings, have a coffee at a cute cafe, or shop at the local stores and markets. With a map or guidebook, you can plan your own trip based on what you like.
Choose any option for a walking tour in Ghent to learn about the city’s history and lively atmosphere. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes, bring your camera, and prepare to explore Ghent on foot. Be sure to check out our article on what to do in Ghent, Belgium, for even more travel inspiration.
Boat Tours
Exploring Ghent by boat is a fun way to see the city’s history and beauty. As you ride through the canals, you’ll see old buildings that have been around for hundreds of years.
Boat tours in Ghent give visitors a chance to learn about the city’s past while enjoying the present. You can see how the city has changed and grown over time.
Some tours focus on the pretty bridges over the canals. These bridges are famous for their detailed designs. You can also enjoy watching people relax by the river as you pass by.
No matter which tour you choose, you’ll be amazed by Ghent’s beauty and history. The old streets and buildings have many stories to tell. A boat tour in Ghent is a great way to enjoy the city and its past.
Historic Sites To See In Ghent Belgium
Castle of The Counts
Castle of the Counts (Gravensteen) is a very old castle from the Middle Ages. It was built in the 12th century and was once home to the Counts of Flanders. Today, people can visit and see inside the castle. You can explore rooms like the knight’s hall and even a scary torture room. Don’t forget to check out the amazing views from the castle’s tall towers.
Belfry of Ghent
Belfry of Ghent is an old and tall bell tower in the middle of the city. It stands out among the other buildings and shows the long history of Ghent. The tower is a UNESCO World Heritage site, representing the city’s strength and freedom.
Visitors can climb the Belfry’s narrow stairs to reach the top, where they can see amazing views of Ghent. From there, you can spot the canals, old buildings, and busy streets below, showing how beautiful the city is.
The Belfry is a popular place to visit and an important symbol of Ghent. The tower also has a Dragon statue, which is a special symbol of the city.
Architectural Marvels
St. Nicholas Church
St. Nicholas Church in Ghent is not only one of the oldest churches in the city but also one of the most beautiful. The church’s architecture is a beautiful blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles, showcasing intricate details and impressive craftsmanship. When you enter, you see a beautiful interior with colorful stained glass windows that let in light. The carvings in the church are detailed, showing the talent and skill of the artists who made them.
St. Nicholas Church has a beautiful organ. It plays lovely music during services and concerts. This organ is a highlight of the church.
The church has many religious relics, making it historically and spiritually important. Visitors should explore the church and appreciate its architecture, artwork, and artifacts.
St. Nicholas Church in Ghent is the best place to visit. It is perfect for history lovers and architecture fans. It also offers a calm place for anyone who wants to enjoy beauty and reflect. Its rich history, stunning architecture, and spiritual significance make it a truly special place to visit.
St. Bavo's Cathedral
Another must-see is St. Bavo’s Cathedral, known for its rich history and artistic treasures. The cathedral is home to the Van Eyck brothers’ famous Adoration of the Mystic Lamb painting. Art fans worldwide love this important artwork from the Middle Ages.
Famous Bridges in Ghent Belgium
St. Michael’s Bridge
St. Michael’s Bridge in Ghent, Belgium, is an important bridge over the Leie River in the city center. It’s not just for crossing; it’s also a favorite place for people to take photos of the city’s beauty.
A great time to visit the bridge is at sunset. The golden light makes the old buildings in Ghent look magical. From the bridge, you can see famous places like St. Nicholas Church, the Belfry, and St. Bavo’s Cathedral.
As the sun sets and shines on the calm river, the view from the bridge becomes even more beautiful. The mix of old buildings, the peaceful water, and the colorful sunset make it a sight to remember. It’s the perfect place to capture a picture that shows the spirit of the city.
Cultural Highlights in Ghent Belgium
Street Art
Ghent’s street art is colorful and always changing. If you walk through places like Werregarenstraat, also called Graffiti Alley, you’ll see bright murals and creative artwork. The street art in Ghent shows the city’s modern side, which is very different from its old buildings.
Local Food And Drinks
Belgian Beers
A trip to Ghent isn’t complete without trying some famous Belgian beers. The city has many pubs and breweries where you can taste different local beers. You should try both the strong, dark ales and the lighter, refreshing ones. Places like Dulle Griet and Het Waterhuis aan de Bierkant are well-known spots to enjoy these beers.
Local Food To Try
Ghent is also a haven for food lovers. Try classic Belgian dishes like waterzooi, Gentse stoverij, and speculoos. For a real taste of Belgium, eat at De Graslei or Het Pakhuis.. Relax and savor delicious food in a cozy atmosphere.
Day Trips from Ghent
Ghent is in the middle of Belgium, making it a great place to start exploring other cities. You can take day trips to places like Bruges, Antwerp, and Brussels, each with its own special attractions.
Bruges is a beautiful city with old buildings, canals, and famous sights like the Belfry of Bruges and the Basilica of the Holy Blood. People often call it the “Venice of the North.” You can also enjoy a boat ride on the canals or try some tasty Belgian chocolates and waffles.
Antwerp is a busy city known for fashion, design, and its cultural history. You can visit the Old Town, see the Cathedral of Our Lady, or shop for diamonds in the Diamond District.
Brussels is the capital of Belgium and the European Union. It’s a mix of old and new, with sights like the Grand Place and the Atomium. You can also enjoy Belgian food at the city’s restaurants and cafes.
Conclusion
What to see in Ghent Belgium is a question many people ask. This city is full of interesting things. You can visit old castles, take a fun boat ride on the canals, and see beautiful buildings. Whether you’re here for a day or longer, Ghent is a great place with lots to explore and enjoy.
FAQs About What to See in Ghent Belgium
What is the best time to visit Ghent?
Best times to visit Ghent are in the spring and fall. Spring is from April to June, and fall is from September to November.
How many days should I spend in Ghent?
To fully experience Ghent, plan to spend at least two to three days.
Are there any free attractions in Ghent?
In Ghent, there are many free activities to enjoy. You can visit the old city center, explore Graffiti Alley, and take a stroll along the canals.
What is the best way to get around Ghent?
Ghent is a walkable city with an efficient public transportation system. Biking is also a popular and convenient way to explore the city.