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20+ Unique and Fun Things to do in Ghent, Belgium

Last Updated: April 15, 2021

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Wondering what to do in Ghent, Belgium? In this article, I’m sharing all my top tips for unique things to do in Ghent, along with hidden gems and quirky sights you won’t find anywhere else in the world. Enjoy!

I’ve made it no secret that I’m low-key obsessed with Belgium , a country that I consider among the most underrated in Europe.

And if I had to pick an underdog among underdogs, it may just be the vibrant city of Ghent, the capital of East Flanders and the third biggest city in Belgium just behind Brussels and Antwerp.

What‘s so special about Ghent exactly?

Well, how many places allow you to be a time traveler, beer connoisseur, art snob, and quirky hipster all at once?

(I hope you don’t have a quick answer to that, otherwise I’d be deeply embarrassed)

In short: there are SO many awesome, fun, and unique things to do in Ghent that it’s impossible not to love this city. Add on a bit of hipster pride that it’s not overrun by fellow tourists and boom – you have a perfect city break.

No doubt, this will be place you’ll want to visit A-Ghent as soon as possible, so here’s a list of what to do in Ghent during your visit, whether it’s your first or your tenth.

The Top Touristy Things To Do In Ghent

Let’s start with the touristy must-dos – the top Ghent attractions that are (in my opinion) actually worth it!

Take a Canal Tour

Much like in other canal-rich cities like Amsterdam or Bruges , taking a joy ride along Ghent’s scenic canals is a very worthwhile experience in the name of both history and… laziness.

After all, Ghent’s waterways are deeply intwined with the city’s lengthy history.

It was way back in the late middle ages that Ghent originated as a settlement here at the confluence of both the Scheldt and Leie rivers.

This strategic location is what allowed Ghent to become one of the wealthiest cities back in the day, and today you get to reap the rewards by gliding along the water and seeing all the pretty things they did with their money.

There’s a huge variety of cruise and boat services that are offered in Ghent, but I’d recommend booking an open-top one ( this one is less than 10 euros when you book online) because I did one that had a glass roof and it wasn’t great for photos.

Enjoy the view from St Michael’s Bridge

I love a good bridge, and I’m thrilled to report that St Michael’s Bridge (one of the top attractions in Ghent) actually lives up to the hype.

It’s here that you’ll get some of the prettiest views in the city (from the ground level anyway), with prime landmarks such as Ghent’s three main towers in view.

It’s also a wonderful place for very vain photo opportunities. Allow me to demonstrate.

Go Church Hopping

The grandeur and diversity of churches in Ghent are tough to beat. I know it doesn’t sound like the most thrilling experience in the world, but church hopping is actually one of the best things to do in Ghent.

Here’s why: there’s so many, and they’re all beyond cool.

From churches housing famous masterpieces to churches that have been converted in food/flea markets, Ghent has it all.

Here are a few Ghent churches to put on your list:

• Saint Bavo Cathedral: The oldest parish church in Ghent, and home to world-famous artworks including a Rubens painting and the infamous Ghent Altar piece (more on this later)
• St.Nicholas’ Church: A beautiful central church made of Tournai bluestone and constructed in the local Scheldt Gothic style 
• St Michael’s Church: A Roman Catholic church known for its Neo-Gothic interior and impressive Baroque paintings

Climb the Ghent Belfry

For a truly mindblowing view over Ghent, look no further than the Ghent Belfry, widely considered to be the best view in town.

Once upon a time (back in the early 15th century), the city’s top secrets were locked up here in a chest belonging to the Belfry’s safe. Today, this Ghent attraction is hardly a secret, but a visit is worth it, especially considering there’s a lift that takes you up after just a few flights of stairs.

TIP: Buy a skip the line ticket in advance here to avoid waiting.

Clamour Over the Ghent Altarpiece

Whether you’re fond of art, or not all, you’ll have likely heard about the Ghent Altarpiece, AKA the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb , a complex 15th-century painting comprised of 18 panels housed in Ghent’s Saint Bravo Cathedral.

Long story short: the Ghent altarpiece tells the story of the Bible with remarkable attention to detail, so much that it’s considered one of the most incredible masterpieces of all time.

And well, with that kind of popularity comes consequences… namely that it’s widely considered one of THE most stolen artworks in history.

Today, you can marvel at this masterpiece behind a swanky €30m glass case, a protective measure that will hopefully prevent any further thefts. With that kind of pricey case though, you can expect that visitors will need to cough up a bit of cash to see it up close, which is why admission tickets are 12.50 per adult.

Definitely a bit steep, but worthwhile if you’re keen to see a historic piece of art.

Visit Gravensteen Castle

Now it’s time to travel back to the 12th century, all the way to the early days of Gravensteen Castle, also known as the Castle of the Counts, one of Ghent’s top attractions.

What once harboured gripping screams of torture and functioned as a residence of royalty, prison, and even a cotton factory, today is an unmissable attraction, and one of the most popular touristy things to do in Ghent. And for a very good reason.

Inside these sturdy medieval walls, you’ll find museums revealing weapons and armour used extensively in ancient warfare as well as a unique collection of… torture items, if you’re into that.

PS: For an extra cherry on top of your torture war sundae, climb up the castle to soak in panoramic rooftop views of Ghent.

Wander Around Patershol

Ready for another lovely stroll? Welcome to Patershol – oft considered the coolest neighborhood in Ghent.

For nostalgic souls like me, a visit here is a must.

In Patershol (AKA the culinary heart of Ghent), you’ll find dreamy cobbled alleys packed with trendy bars and traditional eateries, plus plenty of great opportunities for shopping. It’s a lovely and charming escape from the more congested areas of Ghent, and a great place to grab a bite too.

Enjoy Ghent by Night

There’s a lot to do in Ghent during the day, no doubt, but avoid food coma-ing at your hotel right after dinner, because exploring Ghent by night is full of rewards.

After all, Ghent boasts an award-winning light plan that illuminates the city in such beautiful ways, they’ve genuinely won international accolades for it. Of course, the setting being lit isn’t too shabby either.

Through this plan, many of Ghent’s most important monuments are thoughtfully lit at night, which provides both extra safety and photogenic ~~ drama ~~, both things I’m a huge fan of.

Of course, besides prettiness, Ghent by night has a lot to offer.

Think countless nightclubs and DJs playing til the morning, buzzing pubs and cultural events, live jazz concerts, and much more waiting to be discovered. (That is, if you don’t fall into a food coma)

Explore Ghent’s Graffiti Street

When Ghent opened up an alley in its city centre to legal street art back in 1995, graffiti artists across the city responded enthusiastically, and it’s a tradition still preserved today on Werregarenstraat.

And while this alley (connecting the streets of Hoogpoort and Onderstraat) has become a touristy attraction in its own right, its original purpose wasn’t to attract tourists.

Rather, it was to prevent the most valued historic buildings and walls in Ghent from getting sprayed on, which apparently worked pretty well!

Since this Ghent attraction is right in the city center, it’s definitely worth a quick walkthrough, but don’t expect to spend too much time here or get your expectations up too high.

To be honest, there are way better murals and street art in the city (more on that later), but this is just one of those quintessential Ghent activities you should check off your list.

Follow the steps of Ghent’s oldest wall at St. Bavos’ Abbey Ruins

Can’t get enough of Ghent’s historic charm? Well then, head to Abbey Ruins of St.Bavos, where you can walk in the footsteps of some… seriously tumultuous history.

While much of the abbey is today in ruins, perfectly manicured shrubs and columns have been placed along the abbey’s former perimeter so you can get a feel for what it was like back in the day.

This abbey actually dates back to the 7th century, where it stood for almost 900 years until Charles V ordered its destruction in 1540.

Today, the ruins are open only a few days a week ( hours here ), but the altar is still sometimes used as a performance stage!

Visit a Cool Art Museum that Likely Has an Awesome Abbreviation

As Belgium’s resident “cool kid” (in my opinion anyway), it shouldn’t be surprising that Ghent is full of art galleries and museums, with an exciting and diverse selection for every interest.

Funnily enough, I noticed most of the museums have fun abbreviations too. Here are some museums to add to your list:

• SMAK: A must for unconventional and contemporary art lovers (particularly those who enjoy provocative exhibitions)
• STAM: The Ghent city museum, which tells the history of the city through gigantic aerial maps and multimedia

Stop by the controversial Stadshal (City Pavilion)

In the heart of Ghent’s historic center, you’ll find a striking modern pavilion known as the Stadshal (or City Pavilion in English).

This open canopy made of wood, concrete and glass has divided public opinion since its introduction in 2012, with many locals angry at the modern design placed just a stone’s throw from the city’s most historic monuments.

Love it or hate it, you have to admit it looks pretty cool:

Admire the architecture of the Ghent Sint-Pieters Station

While Antwerp is commonly praised for having the world’s most beautiful station, and Liège’s train station was featured in Guardians of the Galaxy, Ghent’s central station is worth some admiration too.

… I only wish someone had told me earlier, because I completely missed it, so don’t make the same mistake as me. Meanwhile, here’s a stock photo to convince you:

Beer and Foodie Things to do in Ghent

Beer and food are two wonderful reasons to visit Ghent, which has a reputation as one of Belgium’s top foodie cities. Here are some wonderfully fun things to do in Ghent that relate to food and drink.

Drink Beer From a Glass so Precious, They Take Your Shoe as a Deposit

Wait a minute. Your shoe as a deposit? Yep, welcome to Belgium!

Apparently, stealing glasses is such a thing in Belgium that certain bars have begun fighting back . Some have adopted electronic anti-theft tags, while others (such as Dulle Griet  in Ghent) have pulled out some seriously creative stops to protect their priciest glassware.

Namely, they take a shoe of yours as a deposit when you order one of their Max Van Het Huis beers, which come in comically lengthy glasses (pictured below).

Sure, hopping to the bathroom because you’re missing a shoe isn’t glamorous, but sipping a giant beer as your shoe screams for help from above sure is!

Enjoy a treat so beloved, it sparked a turf war

If you thought a shoe deposit was bizarre, allow me regale you with tales of the almighty Cuberdon, a traditional Belgian candy that has become entrenched in local Ghent folklore thanks to two petty vendors in Groentemarkt.

The year was 2011, and local businessman Carl Demeestere had just begun selling Cuberdons at his bakery. The conical nose-shaped candies (which contain a crisp sugary shell and a gooey, jammy interior) were a smash hit with locals and tourists alike.

To his horror however, a rival vendor by the name of Sonny Breine began selling Cuberdons shortly after, unsubtly right in front of Demeestere’s bakery.

What ensued would become known locally as the “war of little noses” – Demeestere opened up his own stall right next to Breine’s, the two began openly heckling each other in public, and once they even got in an open fist fight that resulted in both losing their licenses temporarily.

While today the war seems to be over, and Breine has long left his stall, drama has continued to unfold in recent years with Brein’s successor dumpling a literal bucket of water on Demeestere’s head.

Drama aside, if you want to taste the treat that inspired this soap opera of water buckets, brawls, and incessant hostility, go ahead and try a Cuberdon – those very same stalls are still there today.

Sample some of the best vegetarian food in Europe

A little known fact about Ghent is that it’s actually known as the veggie capital of Europe , with plenty of plant-based options found all around the city.

So, if you want to participate in a tradition that’s uniquely Ghent, consider taking part in the city’s Thursday Veggie day, during which over 100 restaurants and hotels in the city go vegetarian for the day, offering tasty options throughout the day that are all meat-free.

Have a coffee break at a used book cafe with FREE COOKIES

10,000 books, a wall full of free cookies, and truly tasty cappuccinos…

Truly, is there anything better?

One of the best things to do in Ghent when you’re in need of a break is to visit Le Bal Infernal, a lovely and cozy café that is filled wall to wall with used books, as well as cookies on the house.

No, I’m not joking. Please go. I miss it deeply.

Go On an Epic 6-round Beer tour

While it’s fairly easy to DIY your own beer tour around Ghent (just hurl yourself at the closest bar and get belligerent), there are certainly more dignified and cultured ways to get your buzz on.

If you’re hoping to get some local insight into beer culture, as well as find where to drink beer in Ghent away from the more touristy locales, then booking a beer tour like this one is a great Ghent activity to consider. Not only does it take you to three different bars, you also get 5 beer tasters and a mini chocolate tasting too.

Sample local Ghent specialties at the Great Butcher’s Hall

In Groentemarkt just steps from the aggressive nose-candy vendors, you’ll find Ghent’s Butcher’s Hall, where local specialty Ganda ham hangs from the ceiling like a fun, meaty decoration.

This spot is a must-visit for foodies because it’s now home to the Centre for East Flemish Regional Products, meaning you can find all sorts of local goodies to taste and buy, like beer, mustard, ham, and cheese.

Enjoy a Chocolate Tour

If there’s one thing that could be superior to the cold pint of craft beer, then it must be chocolate.

Fortunately, Belgium is known for its (nose-shaped, feud-inspiring) sweets and chocolate.

Again, it’s pretty easy to DIY your own chocolate tour of Ghent, but if you want insider tips and local insight, then booking a chocolate tour like this one is definitely the way to go.

Learn how to cook Ghent specialties with a local

Ghent is a foodie city through and through, and one of the best ways to experience this is through learning how to make your own classic Belgian dishes from scratch!

This cooking class takes place in a Ghent kitchen/garden where a local expert will guide you through the preparation of your own Belgian classics, which of course you get to eat after. There’s definitely no better way to get acquainted with local cuisine than this.

Quirky and Offbeat Things to do in Ghent

Now, what is there to do in Ghent that’s a bit unusual or offbeat? In a city with shoe deposits and nose candy turf wars, surely you can expect an oddity or two. Well, I’m happy to report that there are plenty of fun and unusual Ghent activities to choose from. Here are a few.

Celebrate the birth of new Ghent babies

Celebrate the birth of stranger babies? Why not?

At the gorgeous Ghent square of Sint-Veerleplein, you’ll find a peculiar streetlight installation that (when flashing) means a baby has just been born in the city!

In collaboration with the Ghent City Council, artist Alberto Garutti dreamt up this adorable installation in 2011.

It’s known as Ai Nati Oggi (“For Those Born Today”) and the concept is simple: a button installed in a local maternity ward allows parents to signal the birth of their child to the city with a flashing light.

Today, that light can be found in Sint-Veerleplein, one of the oldest squares in the city, sharing real estate with cozy pubs and iconic landmarks such as the Castle of Counts.

Ahh, yes – once a square for executions, now a square for flashing baby lights. Gotta love it.

Enjoy Peace And Quiet At Ghent’s Beguinages

For a peaceful escape from the busiest and buzziest patches of Ghent, consider seeking temporary refuge in a Beguinage.

These Beguinages are where enclosed communities for devout women were created back in the 13th century.

Today, they are UNESCO World Heritage Sites seen throughout the province of Flanders, where you’ll find 30 total including in Bruges and in Antwerp .

As for Ghent, you’ll find three here, all of which make for an excellent little walk:

• Great St Elizabeth Beguinage 
• Old St Elizabeth Beguinage
• Small Beguinage Our Lady ter Hoyen

Grab a Drink at Ghent’s Tiniest Microbar

You can grab a drink anywhere in Ghent, with hundreds of restaurants and pubs at your disposal, but if you’re looking for something quirky and unique to do in Ghent, what about the smallest one?

Once upon a time, ‘t Galgenhuisje had two rather grim functions: first as a tripe house where they sold entrails deemed too unsanitary for the Butchers’ Hall, and also as a waiting area where condemned men and women awaited execution.

Today, ‘t Galgenhuisje is Ghent’s smallest cafe, exploding with great reviews, whether it’s for their hospitality, variety of Belgian tap beer, friendly service or picturesque setting.

Say hi to Ghent’s answer to Mannekin Pis

For those who have not yet known the joy of Belgium’s most famous tiny peeing boy statue, let me fill you in: the Mannekin Pis is a Brussels icon, and arguably the city’s most famous tourist attraction… although whether or not it’s a tourist trap is fiercely up for debate.

Yes it really is just a fountain of a tiny peeing boy.

But don’t worry – Ghent has something similar! If you’re looking for “off the beaten path” tiny peeing statues, then boy do I have just the activity for you.

Lena, Nestor & Luna can be found happily peeing in the Kraanlei above Nestor Restaurant. You’re welcome.

Or Visit a Troll-themed Bar In a Centuries-old Basement

Tucked away in a 15th century basement, Trollekelder is an authentic beer café in Ghent that not only excels in delivering an old fashioned pub ambiance, but does so with a dash of troll-themed details.

This bizarre fairytale setting was once a book shop up until the 80s. Today, it’s an intimate hideaway known for its outstanding array of specialty beers… not that you needed any further incentive than “troll-themed bar”.

Cool and Alternative Things to do in Ghent

Wondering what to do in Ghent for a bit of an alternative experience? Here are some ideas!

Hunt for epic street art

I’ve already said that I find Ghent’s Graffiti Street pretty overrated, but here’s the good news: Ghent is actually filled with tons of cool and beautiful street art – all you have to do is hunt it down!

Artists from around the world have left a legacy of street art in Ghent, and you can find it all over.

From statues dedicated to nature and realistic 3D graffiti art to funky and colourful murals representing fantasy and culture, there’s plenty to see!

Click here for a list of murals you can visit.

Go On an Urban Mountain Bike Sightseeing Tour

There’s tons of wonderful ways to discover Ghent – on foot, by boat and also (if you’re athletically inclined) by mountain bike.

If you’re looking for one of the more unique things to do in Ghent, check out this highly rated urban mountain biking tour which takes you to hidden gems and alternative sights in Ghent with a local.

Check out De Krook

De Krook is a relatively new public library in Ghent, but its striking and unique design make it a worthwhile place to visit for lovers of architecture.

Perched on a river bend in Ghent once used to unload coal, this thriving and modern library is known for its outstanding modern architecture and unique activities including a Maker’s Lab, 3D printing facilities and plenty of workshops for visitors.

Go shopping at Dok Noord

If regular shopping on the main drags of Ghent is too mainstream for you, head to Dok Noord, a former factory that has been converted today into a trendy shopping complex with dozens of shops, entertainment services and even leisure/fitness facilities on the top floor.

Go For a Swim in Belgium’s Oldest Indoor Swimming Pool,

To continue Ghent’s string of random accolades, did you know Ghent is also home to Belgium’s oldest indoor swimming pool?

The Van Eyck swimming pool in Ghent is a beautiful facility that boasts some seriously gorgeous art deco and offers a chance to ogle architecture, hang with locals and get a refreshing workout in all-in-one.

And despite being Belgium’s oldest indoor pool/bath house, it’s also considered fairly new as it was completely refurbished back in 2001.

As a bonus, a special lounge on the first floor allows you to chill out after your swim for a chance to properly appreciate the architecture.

Did I miss any of your favourite fun things to do in Ghent?

Let me know in the comments!

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Best 14 Things to do in Ghent | Hidden Gem Belgium

This hidden gem located in the Flemish region of Belgium is often overshadowed by the enchanting cities of Bruges and beloved Brussels, but Ghent is certainly not inferior in terms of its beauty. This medieval city looks straight out of a storybook with its picturesque cobblestone streets and charming steeple-roofed buildings. Peaceful canals wind right through the center of the city with a giant castle fortress taking center stage. Besides its wealth of wonderful historical viewpoints, Ghent is known for its soaring beer scene, trendy bars & incredible food spots . Ghent is the perfect place to spend a day filled with plenty of things to do. 

If you are looking for the Bruges kind of charm but without the huge crowds, then Ghent is the right place for you. We absolutely fell in love with Ghent and even dare to say it’s our favorite Belgian city. In case you are planning a trip to Belgium, the hip and chic Ghent must simply be on your bucket list . Otherwise, these 14 things to do in Ghent will hopefully convince you. Whether you are looking for a day trip from another European city or want to spend a weekend in Ghent to completely soak up everything this alluring city has to offer, you will find all the best things to do in Ghent in this post.

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* Disclosure: This Best Things to do in Ghent post contains affiliate links. We will receive a small commission if you book through our links. This is at no extra cost to you. This way you’re helping us write awesome travel guides and keep providing you with free content. We only recommend products we like and trust ourselves.

Best Things to Do in Ghent on a Day Trip

Belgium is a great country to explore, with its unique cities, interesting history, and divine cuisine. However, it remains an underrated destination on the European itinerary of many tourists. It might be small, but it’s filled with stunning medieval cities to choose from. When looking for the best city to visit on a trip to Belgium, most people immediately think of Bruges or the capital, Brussels. However, Ghent is a great rival to its neighbors where you won’t find as many tourist hordes. Dive into the vast network of quaint alleyways, narrow canals, and breathtaking gothic architecture .

This gem of Belgium is a vibrant college city , which adds to the lively atmosphere and somewhat hipster vibe that can be experienced in the many bars and restaurants. The city can be easily explored on foot since most of the historic city is car-free while enjoying the gorgeous medieval backdrop. The majority of highlights are within walking distance of each other. So walking or biking is the best way to soak up the city. Since Ghent is way less touristy than Bruges, you will find it easier to fully immerse yourself in the local Flemish culture and have a more authentic experience while roaming around. From medieval quaintness and impressive towers to intriguing bars with famous beers, Ghent has something for everyone. So without further ado, here are the best things to do in the charming city of Ghent. 

READ MORE | Weekend in Ghent | Complete Guide to Belgium’s Best-Kept Secret

TIP | Grab a Ghent City Card

Experience the city of Ghent to the fullest at a good price. This advantage card gives you access to all top attractions, numerous exhibitions, and public transport. Plus it even includes a guided boat tour!

You can purchase the Ghent City Card at the Tourist Office, all participating museums and attractions, and hotels. If you are planning on visiting Ghent for a weekend or more, we recommend getting a city card. For 48 hours the card will cost you €38, while 72 hours cost €44. You will easily get your money’s worth in no time if you are visiting a bunch of the offered attractions since most of the highlights already cost around €10 entrance. 

TIP | Join a FREE guided Walking tour of the city

What better way to explore the historical beauty of Ghent than by joining a walking tour? For FREE! The Legends of Ghent take you on a 2-hour guided walking tour along the highlights of this gorgeous city. An enthusiastic local guide takes you through a journey of the legendary past of Ghent with history and funny stories. Further, they will also provide you with some extra tips, interesting facts, and hidden gems!

These daily tours are for free, the charged fee through the booking link just covers the booking cost. The guides of this tour are local volunteers, so do make sure to leave a tip at the end ;).

Planning a  weekend in Ghent  and not sure where to start? Make sure to check out our step-by-step guide with a 2-day route plan, useful travel tips, and recommendations on where to stay, and eat for your perfect city trip.

1. Admire the St. Michael’s Bridge

For the most famous postcard view of Ghent, head over to the St. Michael’s Bridge (or Sint-Michielsbrug ), a beautiful stone-arch bridge. From this vantage point, you can admire the iconic Three Towers : Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, Saint Nicholas Church, and the Belfry Tower. All at the same time! It also treats you to some magnificent cityscape views over the Lys river (or Leie ), with on your left the Korenlei and the Graslei on your right. The perfect spot to get introduced to the beautiful medieval architecture of Ghent.

2. Walk along the Graslei and Korenlei

The Leie River runs right through the historical center of Ghent and is flanked by two beautiful architectural quays. Located on the right bank of the Leie river you have the Graslei, the quay on the opposite side is the Korenlei. This area historically used to be part of the medieval port. The gothic-style buildings on both sides of the quay played an important economic role during those times. Back then, the buildings at the Graslei used to store herbs and vegetables, whereas the ones on the Korenlei used to hold corn. Once the epicenter of commerce , now it’s the tourist hotspot of the city housing many cafés and restaurants. 

These quays are one of our favorite places to hang out when we visit Ghent. The Graslei and Korenlei, characterized by its many grand facades, is a popular spot amongst locals to relax by the waterside . Definitely, in summer you will see a lot of people hanging out here and enjoying the atmosphere of the city. Whether you are interested in architecture, people-watching, or fancy a stroll along the river, take some time here to enjoy the surroundings.

3. Step back in time at the Castle of the Counts

Did you always want to visit a castle that looks like it’s ripped out of fairytales? Then make sure to take a look at the Castle of the Counts (or Gravensteen ). This medieval castle is set right in the heart of the city surrounded by a moat. It dates back to the 12th century and was originally built by Philip of Alsace as a protection settlement against invaders. This major landmark is the only of its kind in all of Flanders , still having an intact defense system. The well-preserved moated fortress is absolutely majestic to behold.

After completion, it was first the residence of the Counts of Flanders until the end of the 14th century. Afterward, it was used as a supreme court and a prison, from which today an extensive collection of torture equipment has been put on display in the former dungeons. In the 18th century, the whole complex was converted into a cotton and textile factory.

The area was then restored at the end of the 19th century and now functions as a museum. If you have the time and there is only one place you want to visit, then you should head for the castle. There is so much to explore on the inside, from the residences to the stables. The torture museum gives you a glimpse into the brutality of medieval times.

TIP | Make sure to go up on the rooftop for an amazing view of the entire city

ENTRANCE FEE | Adults €13; Students until 26yrs €8; Children from 12-19 yrs €2,7; Children under 12 yrs FREE

OPENING TIMES | Every day from 10 am till 6 pm

4. Sample some local delicacies

Ghent is absolute food heaven for all the gourmets out there. Besides having its own traditional local delicacies , you can find famous Belgian dishes and goodies like fries, waffles, and chocolate all over town.

Try out all the different Belgian Chocolate

Just like in the bigger touristic cities of Bruges and Brussels, there are plenty of myriad artisanal chocolate shops in Ghent. You can get a nice variety of high-quality handmade chocolate at Ch ocolaterie Luc Van Hoorebeke and H ilde Devolder Chocolatier . Pick out a few to try or ask the staff to handpick some recommendations based on your flavor preferences.

A fun & interactive way to explore the city is by joining a chocolate tour . Not only will the guide entertain you with historic tales during the tour, but will also take you to some local chocolatiers to sample and learn more about the world of chocolate .

Taste the typical Ghent candy ‘Cuberdons’ 

The signature treat of Ghent must be the famous Cuberdons . Or as we call it popularly “Gentse Neuzen”, which you could translate as Ghent’s Little Noses. They are purple conical-shaped candies, traditionally with raspberry-flavored gelatinous filling. We Belgians really grew up with this childhood candy and always brings back memories of seeing them in Ghent! These days though you can find cone-shaped candy in all kinds of colors and flavors. You can find a cute food stall on the Groentenmarkt selling them, so stop by to get a small box. 

FUN FACT | There used to be two wagons, known rivals over who makes the best ones, selling Cuberdons on the Groentenmarket. However these days there’s only one left. I guess the one remaining Cuberdon Stall won the famous ‘War of the Noses’?

Buy some vintage mustard

Right on the Groentenmarkt, you can find the famous Tierenteyn-Ver lent shop . This quaint little shop has been around since 1790 and is mostly known for its specialty: mustard . The decor of the shop has remained exactly the same since 1860 with its apothecary-looking shelves. Not only is their mustard the best we have ever tasted, but it’s also a unique gift to take home . The mustard is freshly spooned from a huge wooden barrel in their typical ceramic containers, which looks just adorable! The mustard itself is quite spicy but absolutely delicious (think Dijon mustard). Once you finish the jar of mustard, you can still re-use the cute container to store sea salt for example. Every time we pass through Ghent we get requested to take a bunch home to Moritz’s family in Germany .

Eat like a local and try out the Gentse Waterzooi

This warm hearty dish is another specialty from Ghent. Waterzooi is a soup stew dish made out of fish or chicken together with vegetables in a cream. Back in the Middle Ages, this soup stew was traditionally prepared with fish from the Lys River. Throughout time it got replaced by chicken by housewives as the rivers got more polluted and fish started to disappear. Nowadays you can choose the version that you like at the many restaurants in Ghent that put their own version of the dish on the menu.

5. Try local Belgian products at the Great Butcher’s Hall

The Great Butcher’s Hall (or Groot Vleeshuis ) is the perfect place to sample all kinds of local authentic cuisine. The impressive 15th-century guild house is a former indoor meat market that was converted into a restaurant. They used to hang Ganda Ham up to cure on the vaulted wooden ceilings, an aspect that has been kept in the current concept of the restaurant. The Hall showcases over 175 regional products from the East Flanders region. In the restaurant, you have the chance to try them out as well as an extensive range of local beers. Check out the menu of the Great Butcher’s Hall here .

OPENING HOURS | From Tuesday until Saturday; from 11 am until 6 pm – TEMPORARILY CLOSED

6. Visit the 3 towers

Ghent is often referred to as the city of the three towers , the famous landmarks that define the medieval skyline of Ghent’s city center. You can spot all three of them in a perfect row from standing on the St. Michiel’s Bridge : Saint Nicholas Cathedral, Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, and the Belfry Tower:

Enjoy the views from the Belfry of Ghent

Just a short walk away from Saint Michael’s Bridge you find one of the most significant landmarks of Ghent. The Belfry of Ghent (or Belfort ) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to the year 1380 that you simply cannot miss. The tallest bell tower in Belgium is the center of attention with its 91-meter height. The symbol of Ghent even has a beautiful copper dragon on the top.

During medieval times, the city’s privileges were guarded in a chest by the dragon on top of the tower. For more than 500 years, the Belfry was used as a fortified watch tower and alerted the citizens in case of fire or enemy attacks. The alarm bell that was used to warn the city was named Roland. However, in the 17th century, Roland was melted and turned into a Carillon. On a visit to the Belfry, you can check out the bells and chimes on your way up. There is an elevator available, so you don’t necessarily have to climb the stairs. 

TIP | Climb to the top of the Belfry Tower to catch the best 360° panoramic view of the city

OPENING HOURS | Every day from 10 am to 6 pm, the last tickets sold at 5.30 pm

ENTRANCE FEES | Adults €11 ; Students (19-25) €5 ; Youth (13-18) €2.2 ; Children until 12 FREE

For more information and booking tickets, check the official website of Belfry.

Marvel at the Saint Bavo’s Cathedral

Another must-see iconic tower in Ghent is the one from Saint Bavo’s Cathedral (or Sint-Baafskathedraal ) dating back to the 11th century. Finished in 1569, it took more than 500 years to complete. The cathedral is home to the altarpiece “The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb” by brothers Hubert & Jan van Eyck from the 15th century. It’s supposedly one of the earliest oil paintings in the world and is the most celebrated masterpiece of Flemish art . The artwork consists of 24 panels, divided over 2 vertical registers.

One of the panels, however ‘The Just Judges’, has been stolen and is until this date not yet recovered. In the meantime, a copy of the stolen panel was put in its place. Further, there’s a manuscript inside the cathedral that holds the four gospels, which is supposedly the oldest preserved book in Belgium dating back to the 9th century.

OPENING HOURS | Ghent Altarpiece: From Mon-Sat: 10 am – 4.30 pm; Sun: 1 pm – 4.30 pm.

ENTRANCE FEE | €12.5 for the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb;  €10 Discount with CityCard Gent ; the cathedral itself is FREE.

For more information and booking of tickets, visit the official website.

Admire St. Nicholas’ Church Gothic Architecture

One of the oldest landmarks in Ghent is the Scheldt Gothic-style St. Nicholas’ Church , which you can’t miss since it’s located right near St. Michael’s Bridge. Built in the 13th century, the church’s tower served as an observation tower over the city until its neighboring Belfry was built. If you decide to take a peak inside, make sure to check out the Organ which is the central treasure. It was built by the famous French organ creator Aristide Cavaillé-Coll.

TIP | Make sure to spend some time looking at the beautiful guild halls next to the St. Nicholas’ church. In particular, Masons’ Guild Hall , where you can see on top of the stepped gable six figures happily dancing.

7. Hop on a Canal Boat Tour

A great way to discover the city from another vantage point is by taking one of the many Canal Boat Tours . Cruise the romantic waterways of the medieval city during a 40-minute tour . You will pass along all the major highlights, even the imposing Castle of the Counts while floating on the River Lys. There are plenty of operators available on-site offering a round-trip, making booking upfront not necessary. Most of the tours take off at the Graslei and Korenlei intersections. The captain of the boat provides you with historical tales during the guided tour, which are available in multiple languages. Most tours are around €9 per person, if you take the Ghent City Card, the boat tour is included!

8. Explore the Patershol District

In the northern part of the historic city, close to the Gravensteen, is the adorable neighborhood of Patershol . Discovering the little alleys of picturesque Patershol is one of the best things to do in Ghent. Often referred to as the culinary heart of Ghent , these cobblestone streets are filled with cozy restaurants serving cuisine from all over the world. From traditional Flemish cuisine to Japanese and Persian, whatever your heart desires. So if you are getting hungry at the end of your day trip, this is the perfect place to wind down!

This area of the city is usually way less touristy, ideal to escape the crowds. Wander around and enjoy some of the authentic architecture and its street paths that originate back to the Middle Ages. In medieval times this area was very poor, housing the workers of the Counts of Ghent. Today it’s probably the most desirable area in town.

From here, find your way to the Kraanlei Waterfront where you can find plenty of art galleries. Perfect to spend the late afternoon for a stroll along the Leie River. It offers some amazing views of the buildings on the other side. Among them is one of the most famous beer cafés in Ghent ‘ Het Waterhuis aan de Bierkant ’ .

TIP | If you are a sweet tooth, make a stop at Confiserie Temmerman to get some old-fashioned sweets and Ghent delicacies like the Cuberdons.

9. Pass through the Graffiti Street

Of all the bigger cities in Belgium, Ghent is mostly known as the trendy and more ‘hipster’ one, with a big creative scene. The city even dedicated an entire street just for street artists and their graffiti art. Find your way to the Werregarenstraat , where you can admire the latest graffiti by local amateurs , but also known artists like Bué the Warrior and Roa. This hidden alleyway might be a bit hard to find if you don’t know it’s there. These days the graffiti street is mentioned on Google under its own location, due to its rising popularity.

It’s definitely worth a stroll if you are into street art and it surely gives you some funky colorful pictures. Feeling creative: Go all out and add something amazing yourself! It’s probably the only street in Belgium where graffiti art is not illegal but even encouraged. This of course means, that a week later, this street could look way different than you remember. (Happened to us already)

10. Taste some legendary local Belgian beers

One of Belgium’s most famous specialties is obviously beer! And in this regard, the beer scene of Ghent certainly doesn’t disappoint. Passing by one of the many cozy cafés to try out some Belgian beer is a must thing to do while in Ghent. While roaming around the city you will pass plenty of bars to choose from. Yet there are a few specific ones worth mentioning. 

Dulle Griet

One of the most unusual bars must be Dulle Grie t , located on the Vrijdagmarkt. This place boasts a selection of over 500 Belgian beers , the largest in all of Ghent. The interior is absolutely special, with a lot going on, so you will come eyes short. The funniest part of visiting the Dulle Griet is the tradition of trading your shoe for beer . It’s like a deposit for ordering a special boot-shaped beer, and you get your shoe back after settling the bill. 

Het Waterhuis aan de Bierkant

Our personal favorite is He t Waterhuis aan de Bierkant , a typical “brown pub” (or Bruine Kroeg ) that apparently was once a brothel. It’s a beloved spot amongst beer lovers, definitely in summer when you can enjoy their terrace on the waterfront. It’s located right in the historic center and you will pass it by several times. They have 165 beers on the menu to choose from, but we suggest trying the Delirium Tremens , which is brewed right outside Ghent. Order some cold-cut platters with mustard (they serve the one from Tierenteyn-Verlent !) which pairs amazingly with beer. This is a typical Belgian thing to do, enjoying a beer with some cheese on the side. Now relax and soak in the beautiful views!

Trollekelder

Another typical Belgian beer pub is the Trollekelder , which comes with a fun interior theme of Trolls . the pub is set in a 15th-century basement which lends itself to a cozy atmosphere. There are more than 300 beers to choose from, of which their own Trollenbier. A fun fact is that the basement used to be a library until the 1980s.

Barrazza Café

Last not but least, our favorite hidden gem,  Barrazza café . This lovely place gives you a view over the river Lys and if you are lucky you can get a sunny seat right next to the water. You can take this quite literally since you are sitting right on the banks of the river. Enjoying a drink here almost feels like you escaped the hustle and bustle of the city. On the opposite side, from Kraanlei Waterfront, you will catch a great view of the café in between buildings.

11. Go to the market at the Vrijdagmarkt

One of the main squares in Ghent is the Friday Market (or Vrijdagmarkt ), which holds a rich (but dark) history. This was the place where public executions were held back in the day. The last one took place in 1863, after which the square luckily transformed into a happier gathering place.

Most buildings on the Vrijdagmarkt are all rather new compared to the rest of the historic city. The majority were built in the 19th and 20th centuries. Only the white building with the tower remains from medieval times. In the middle of the square, there is a statue of Jacob Van Artevelde , a prominent historical figure of Ghent. He was a cloth merchant who sided with England during the Hundred Year’s War. This was to end the boycott of English wool imports, for which Jakob became a local hero by saving Ghent’s textile trading. On the statue, you can see Jakob pointing in the direction of England.

Beautiful 18th-century guild halls surround the bustling market square housing many bars and restaurants. One of the famous pubs is the Dulle Griet , which serves the largest selection of beers in all of Ghent. The bar has the funny tradition that when you order a Max beer, served in a boot-shaped glass, you have to give your shoe as a deposit. No worries you will get it back afterward! 

As the name already suggests, the weekly market on Friday takes place here as well. A tradition that dates back to the 12th century! It’s definitely one of the best things to do in Ghent if you happen to be in town on a Friday. The favorite Belgian snack that you should try on the market is typical fries with mayonnaise! It just doesn’t get any more Belgian than that.

12. See the Castle of Gerald the Devil

Located a little bit further from the 3 famous towers, stands another castle in town. Built in the 13th century, the castle was named after knight Geeraard Vilain, who went by the nickname Geraard de Duivel (or Gerald the Devil). Throughout the centuries this castle served many purposes, such as a knight’s residence, an arsenal, a school, a monastery, a prison, and even a lunatic asylum. The sight gained more popularity in recent years through its appearance in the Belgian comic book The Adventures of Nero .

Unfortunately, the buildings can’t be visited on the inside. There is however a cozy lunch bar located on the side to enjoy.

13. Walk through the abstract City Pavilion

One building that sticks out against the medieval landscape of Ghent is the modern City Pavilion (or Stadshal ). The piece of architecture has always been a subject of discussion and remains today something you either love or hate. The pavilion was constructed as an open space for concerts and other events in 2012. It was part of a project to revamp the historical square, but due to its modern look, the construction received a lot of criticism. What are your thoughts about it? Have you seen it on a trip to Ghent? Let us know in the comments what you think!

TIP | When walking around this area of town keep your eyes open for the Coin Route (or Muntenroute). 

The idea of the route was to visualize the trading route that went all the way from Bruges to Cologne. Thousands of coins were built into the road surface over a distance of 1km. The clusters of coins tell a piece of history of its surroundings through the engraved drawings.

14. Visit one of the many museums in Ghent

If you want to squeeze in a museum visit, Ghent doesn’t fall short, there are plenty to choose from.

STAM |  Ghent City Museum, where you can learn more about the history and the citizens of Ghent.

SMAK | Lovers of contemporary art can’t afford to miss this place. The museum is the perfect reflection of Ghent’s dynamic and rebellious vibe through art. The museum displays thought-provoking art through innovative exhibitions from both local Belgium artists as well as international artists.

House of Alijn | Takes you through the daily life of Ghent citizens in the 20th century.

Design Museum Ghent | Set in an 18th-century mansion, the Design Museum showcases a selection of applied arts and industrial designs from 1450 to the present day. You can find design collections from different periods such as Art Nouveau, Art Deco, and Modernism.

MSK | The Museum of Fine Arts has an impressive art collection going from 16th-century Flemish primitives to 20th-century surrealist pieces.

Of course, there are many more things to do in Ghent besides the main landmarks, but we wanted to sum up the must-dos for your first time visiting. Thinking of spending a weekend in Ghent? Then make sure to check out our complete 2-day Ghent itinerary guide where we provide a ready-to-go route, useful tips, the best places to stay, and where to go to have mouthwatering food.

Maps of all the best things to do in Ghent

For your convenience, we have created an interactive map pinpointing all the mentioned sights and locations. This Google Maps link is freely available for you to open, save, and use as a helpful guide during your upcoming trip to Ghent.

Fun Tours & Experiences in Ghent

Joining a tour can be a great way to make the most of your visit and gain valuable insights from knowledgeable guides. Here are some fun tours & experiences for your Ghent trip:

Where to stay in Ghent

We suggest staying close to the city center if it’s your first time spending a weekend in Ghent. This way you are within walking distance of all the major highlights and can truly enjoy the atmosphere of this lively city. Since Ghent is less known than Bruges or Brussels, you can definitely find some great-value hotels.

BUDGET | B&B HOTEL Gent Centrum  

The perfect base to explore the city of Ghent from, its central location just can’t be beaten. This stay offers everything you need for a basic, clean & comfortable room.

MID-RANGE | Yalo Urban Boutique Hotel Gent  

Design hotel with a breathtaking rooftop bar that overlooks Ghent. They have their in-house restaurant and bar to enjoy and offer private parking on-site if you come by car.

LUXURY | 1898 The Post

A gorgeous boutique hotel located in the iconic former 19th-century post office building at the Korenmarkt. The rooms are decorated with antique furniture pieces in combination with a sleek design. Guests can enjoy a seating area with an open fireplace that overlooks Ghent, as well as an in-house cocktail bar called The Cobbler.

Ghent Essential Resources

FLIGHTS |  Find the best deals for flights to Belgium with  Skyscanner .

TRANSFERS |  Ready to travel to your next destination in Europe? Book your bus or train tickets via  12go .

HOTELS |  Browse  Booking.com  for a place to stay in Ghent, from budget hostels to luxury hotels.

TOURS & ATTRACTIONS |  For booking the most fun experiences, check out  GetYourGuide   or  Viator .

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Your perfect Ghent itinerary for Belgium’s most underrated city

October 28, 2019 by Karen Turner 1 Comment

Despite coming to Belgium so many times, I’ve definitely fallen in love with Ghent. This charming Belgian city has so much to do and after some day trips and finally a long weekend in Ghent, I’ve created an itinerary for visiting Ghent for first-timers highlighting the best things to do in Ghent. Needless to say, I’ll be back soon and I’m disappointed for not discovering Ghent sooner!

Ghent has a fairly compact city center, so if you find reasonable accommodations in the city center, you’ll be able to walk almost everywhere that you need to go! I strongly recommend staying overnight as otherwise, you won’t be able to stay out late to experience Ghent’s nightlife with a side of Flemish fries. It’s worth the overnight stay, trust me!

On my recent trip with friends, we stayed at the recently renovated Huize Maeterlinck right near Graffitistraat. It was clean, convenient, and basic. You can also find less expensive options, including a hostel ( Hostel Uppelink ) that sits in one of the most beautiful buildings in Ghent with a view that many would kill for! On the other end, if you’re looking for something more luxurious, consider splurging on 1898 The Post for the five-star experience.

Getting to Ghent is easy from many places in Belgium and the Netherlands. Gent-Sint-Pieters is the main train station linking Ghent to Brussels , Antwerpen , and also Amsterdam . If you’re on a budget, you can take Flixbus to Ghent from the Netherlands (Amsterdam) for less than lunch each way! (I paid 9 euros on this trip!) It’s a short tram or taxi ride to the center or about a 30-minute walk.

• 1.1 “Lunch” and a waffle
• 1.2 Step into Groot Vleeshuis
• 1.3 Gravensteen
• 1.4 Watch the sunset along the river
• 1.5 Dinner in Patershol
• 1.6 Beers (or music!)
• 1.7 Frites after dark at Ghent’s best frites bar*
• 2.1 Breakfast
• 2.2 Enjoy the Ghent altarpiece without the crowds
• 2.3 Climb the Belfry of Ghent
• 2.4 Sample Gent’s world-famous noses, mustard, and artisanal chocolate
• 2.5 Enjoy Graffiti Street
• 2.6 Browse for books and fun souvenirs
• 2.7 Borrelen
• 3 Have you been to Ghent? Let me know your favorite things to do in Ghent!

One day in Ghent: Classic Ghent

“lunch” and a waffle.

Ghent is constantly changing and every trip has included stopping off at the various pop-up restaurants along Hoogpoort . This trendy street is full of many international and Belgian influenced food. We ended up stopping off at a Mexican pop-up, which did not disappoint. Mosquito Coast is a favorite among locals with its fun travel-inspired decorations and international menu.

You’ll want to save room for a Belgian waffle. Personally, I prefer the Liege-style waffle over the Brussels-style one. You have plenty of choice for waffles, but a good waffle place will be making them fresh for you. I ended up picking one up from Bakery Himschoot , one of the oldest bakeries in Gent. Next to Bakery Himschoot, you’ll find a stand selling Gentse Neuzen (Gent Noses). These sweet candies are soft with a jelly-like interior and fruit flavors. It’s five euros for a bag and they won’t last long…

Step into Groot Vleeshuis

Foodies should definitely step into the Great Butcher’s Hall ( Groot Vleeshuis ). (Vegetarians, don’t be too afraid!) This beautiful 15th-century former guild house and covered market is a delight to browse. If you’re looking for a snack or a local meal that you can’t find anywhere else, you can sample more than 175 regional products from Flanders here. Entry is free if you want to peek inside (and if you’re full!), however, you can pay for any of the food with a credit/debit card within the restaurant.

Gravensteen

This was my second time at Gravensteen. This epic medieval castle is one of my favorite castle museums in Europe and when my friends visited, I knew that they had to experience this attraction in Ghent. As you go through the castle, you get a good glimpse into the brutality of medieval life in this part of the world.

Recently, they’ve renovated the audio tour to be led by a local Gent comedian. The result is a silly tour through the castle that will make you giggle a lot. The audio tour is worth doing although it’s sometimes a bit at odds with the dark history within the castle. It’s easy to spend at least 2-3 hours within the castle and its grounds. Be sure to enjoy the stunning view of Ghent from the rooftop.

You need to be able to walk well as it’s a lot of stairs as you walk through the main route. If you’re claustrophobic, some parts of the castle will be a bit difficult as the stairways can be very narrow. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as the cobblestones can be slippery at times… Tickets with an audio guide cost 10 euros for adults. You can buy them in advance for specific time slots, which is best during weekends.

Watch the sunset along the river

Ghent is so beautiful at night. We stayed two nights in Ghent and each night, we ended up wandering down to the Leie to admire the stunning former guild houses along the riverside. Ghent was a major player in the textile trade, which brought much wealth within the medieval period. Many of these guild houses are cafes, restaurants, and hotels today. The best views are from Kraanlei . In the summer, you’ll want to grab a snack and a drink to enjoy at a picturesque spot along the river.

Dinner in Patershol

You’ll have plenty of great options for dinner in the Patershol neighborhood, which is the upcoming neighborhood of Ghent. Whether you’re craving traditional Belgian food at ‘t Klokhuys or sushi, there’s something for everyone.

Beers (or music!)

The beauty of Ghent’s nightlife scene is that there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of slightly divey neighborhood bars ( De Croone ), drinking giant beers shamelessly as a tourist ( Dulle Griet ), old-school Flemish bars filled with wood ( Trollekelder ) , a quiet night discussing books over wine ( Le Bal ), or just want to dance the night away ( Charlatan ), Ghent has something for everyone. Just be prepared that many bars are cash only . The local craft beer is Gruut, which can be found at most bars. I also am a fan of the Gentse Tripel!

As veteran beer lovers, we loved the rule of taking one shoe off to order the giant beers at Dulle Griet although you can certainly find slightly better prices at other establishments such as the Trollekelder if you’re a serious drinker. (Still, the beer selection was sublime at both!) Our favorite experience as a group was at one of the beautiful neighborhood bars that we stepped into–and didn’t leave until closing.

Frites after dark at Ghent’s best frites bar*

At the recommendation of our host, we ended up going to Frituur Sint-Jacobs for the best fries in Ghent, if not Belgium. We had fries a few other times and I was a fan of them. (Disclosure: We already had a few beers before coming here.) I liked the fries with samurai sauce, which was definitely a generous portion. They do not accept credit cards, so bring cash with you.

Second day in Ghent

Wake up early (or late) for a lazy breakfast at one of the more interesting brunch restaurants that we went to in Ghent, WASBAR . This combination of a laundromat with a brunch restaurant is a bit bizarre, but it works. The food is good and they accept credit cards.

Enjoy the Ghent altarpiece without the crowds

The Ghent Altarpiece is housed within the Saint Bavo Cathedral , a bit outside of the city center. It’s a short walk from the city center. Although the church itself is free to visit, you need to pay 4 euros in order to see the altarpiece itself. Check the hours carefully as you cannot visit while Sunday services are occurring. Photos aren’t allowed within the church (not my photo above!), however, be sure to climb the tower for beautiful views over Ghent!

The Ghent Altarpiece showcases the story of the Mystic Lamb of the Resurrection on an altarpiece. The real story of this piece of art, which is one of the most stolen art pieces in art history, is a must-read online beforehand. While you’re within the cathedral, be sure to explore this beautiful Gothic church with a Romanesque crypt.

Climb the Belfry of Ghent

Belgium’s many belfries are included within UNESCO’s World Heritage List for their important role in preserving architecture in the Roman, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. These towers are a testament to the history and pride of each city that they’re in within Belgium, including Ghent. In Ghent, the Belfry sits in the middle of the city allowing for stunning views of the historic city center. Within this 91-meter tower, you can see Ghent’s original city mascot, the dragon, displayed.

We were not lucky enough to hear one of the carillon concerts (check the schedule, but Sunday mornings are a sure bet!), however, we were still able to enjoy the inner workings of the carillon. Entry costs 8 euros for adults (2019/2020) and the site is mostly accessible to those with handicaps. Otherwise, you’ll need to climb all 350 stairs. It’s steep, but worth the trek. We spent about an hour inside of the belfry and learned quite a bit about the history of the city.

Sample Gent’s world-famous noses, mustard, and artisanal chocolate

Although people automatically associate Brussels with chocolate , Ghent has much to offer. After all, you are in Belgium. Ghent has a number of artisanal chocolate shops producing high-quality chocolate in-house. My favorites were Chocolaterie Cédric Van Hoorebeke (pictured above), Chocolaterie Luc Van Hoorebeke , and Van Hecke F Chocolatiere . You don’t need a chocolate tour to experience these. Simply, drop by and pick out a few chocolates that look good. (The staff speaks good English if you’re unsure what to pick.) This was easily my favorite activity in Ghent!

Enjoy Graffiti Street

On Werregarenstraat, you’ll find tons of the latest graffiti from local artists and more famous artists such as Roa (also seen in Doel ). It’s worth a stroll if you love street art and perfectly embodies the creative spirit of Ghent!

Browse for books and fun souvenirs

Ghent is full of cool shops and it’s clear that this Belgian city is at the forefront of design. Be sure to browse some of the cool shops around for interesting souvenirs. I especially loved the Books & Booze bookstore and liquor store. For vintage-inspired fashions with a modern take, head to SeventyOne Ghent. You’ll also find many independent bookstores with a decent selection in Dutch and English.

In this part of Belgium and also in the Netherlands, there’s a separate meal-time for drinks and snacks in the late afternoon/early evening. Stop off at a cozy bar for a cozy drink possibly accompanied by some bar snacks (such as bitterballen). We stopped off at one of the oldest bars in Ghent, Café Den Turk for a beer. The bar itself has seen so much history in Ghent and it’s incredible that you can still just drop in for a beer. It’s cash-only.

Have you been to Ghent? Let me know your favorite things to do in Ghent!

• More places not to miss in Belgium!
• Your perfect Belgian itinerary
• One day in Antwerp itinerary
• A weekend in Brussels
• Chocolate in Brussels
• Doel: Flander’s almost abandoned city

About Karen Turner

New Yorker–born and raised. Currently living in the Hague, the Netherlands after stints in Paris and Amsterdam. Lover of travel, adventure, nature, city, dresses, and cats.

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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

4. St. Bavo’s Cathedral

Cathedral, Church

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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15 TOP Things to Do in Ghent, Belgium

Ghent is perhaps one of the most underrated destinations in Europe, but it’s packed full of local history and excellent sights to see. The city is found in Flanders, and it’s long been an important hub for Flemish language and culture.

Located in the north of Belgium, it’s also one of the country’s largest cities, although compared to more well-known locations such as Bruges or Brussels, Ghent sees just a fraction of the tourist numbers.

That makes this a great destination to visit though, as there are some great things to do in Ghent.

From ancient belfries and medieval cathedrals to charming canals and waterside cafes, Ghent always has hidden secrets around every turn of its cobblestone streets. To inspire your trip to Flanders, here are our favorite things to do in Ghent.

Don’t leave home without: DK Eyewitness Travel Guide Brussels, Bruges, Ghent and Antwerp

15 Best Things to Do in Ghent, Belgium

Table of Contents

1. Visit Gravensteen Castle

Gravensteen is one of the most iconic sights in the city, and one of the best things to do in Ghent is to explore this medieval castle! The castle dates far back to the 12th century, and the ramparts, towers, and walls of this sprawling keep are remarkably well preserved.

It’s a stunning sight, and just about as quintessentially castle-like in look as you could ever imagine finding anywhere in Europe.

For centuries this was the home of the ruling families of Flanders, and even today it forms the center of Ghent, overlooking the moat in one direction and tram lines in the other!

Our top recommended tours of Gravensteen:

• Private Tour: Ghent and Bruges Day Trip from Brussels
• Ghent and Bruges Day Trip

2. Climb the Belfry of Ghent

Another iconic medieval sight to visit in the city, and another of the best things to do in Ghent, is the towering, dramatic structure of the Belfry of Ghent. The tower took decades to build, with much of the 14th century passing before its completion.

The tower stands 91 meters tall, and in the turmoil of the medieval times, the massive height of the belfry ensured that not only was it a symbol of religious dominance but that it served as a lookout to warn the city of marauders and invading armies.

The Belfry of Ghent forms part of the unique UNESCO World Heritage listing, Belfries of France and Belgium, which protects many such spectacular towers across both countries.

Purchase your Belfry of Ghent entrance ticket today with Viator.

3. Admire the St Bavo Cathedral

This is a city of medieval towers and cathedrals, and one of the best things to do in Ghent is to visit the churches, including the spectacular St Bavo Cathedral. The cathedral dates to the 13th century, however, there had been places of worship on the same site here for several hundred years previously.

You can explore the beautiful interior, much of which was redesigned in very Gothic styles in later years – a style that you’ll find all across Ghent. The centerpiece of St Bavo is the belfry, however, which rises to 89 meters in height – not quite as tall as the Belfry of Ghent, but just as impressive!

Our top recommended tours of St Bavo Cathedral:

• Discovery of Ghent
• Super Saver: Brussels Sightseeing Tour, Antwerp Half-Day Trip, Day Trip to Ghent and Bruges
• Ghent and Bruges Day Trip from Brussels

4. Stare Up at the St Nicholas Church

The St Nicholas Church is home to Ghent’s third iconic belfry tower, which again dominates the skyline of the city center even today. The church was built in the 13th century and took almost a century to construct, such as the height of the spire and the intricacies of the Gothic architecture.

Explore the interior and look out for the unmissable church Organ, an instrument that has huge pride of place in local heritage for its history.

Our top recommended tours of St Nicholas Church:

5. Seek Out St Peter’s Abbey

St Peter’s Abbey night lacks the dramatic towers of Ghent’s other famous cathedrals, but it’s perhaps the most historic place of Christian worship in the city. The abbey dates back in some shape or form to the 7th century AD when the people of Flanders were first converted to Christianity.

However, by the 18th century, it had fallen into disuse and it wasn’t until the mid 20th century that it was again restored, but not as a place of worship, but to be a museum, which houses exhibits telling the tale of the abbey itself and of the city.

6. Museum Dr. Guislain

For a look at a more unusual side of Ghent’s history, then head to the ever-intriguing Museum Dr. Guislain. Set in Belgium’s first mental asylum, the museum is named for Dr. Guislain, who pioneered techniques towards treating those with mental illness.

It’s a look at history, and a look at psychiatry too, and you’re guaranteed to be fascinated by the different exhibits and displays found here.

7. Go Inside of the Stadhuis

One of the best things to do in Ghent is to visit the Stadhuis, the City Hall. It’s an incredibly beautiful building, and even amongst the ornate Gothic architecture of Ghent, it stands out magnificently. The City Hall was built at a time when Ghent was flourishing as a center for trade and commerce in Flanders, and money and wealth were flooding in.

The tall building was a grandiose statement, and the inside is resplendent with grand designs and artistic stained glass windows. There’s even a wedding chapel inside, and many locals will know the Stadhuis from attending weddings here!

8. MSK Gallery

The MSK Gallery is Ghent’s museum of fine arts, and it’s a great place to get acquainted with the city’s culture. History lovers will also appreciate the MSK, as it’s home to a unique collection of artwork from the medieval era, with some pieces having been produced hundreds of years ago.

The collections also include other fine art from more modern times too, with great galleries displaying European work from the 20th century too.

9. Listen for Ghosts at the Castle of Gerald the Devil

If you are looking for even more iconic, medieval sights to see, then one of the best things to do in Ghent is to visit the Castle of Gerald the Devil. It’s not exactly a castle in the traditional sense, not like Gravensteen, but it does still date to the 13th century and does have a few turrets and spires, although they are mostly for show!

The rather unusual and slightly spooky name of the castle gives it an even more unusual feel, but don’t worry, it’s not as haunted as it sounds.

10. Visit the Design Museum

If you’re interested in Flemish culture, then don’t hesitate to call into the extensive galleries held at the Design Museum in Ghent. This is often cited as one of the best of its kind in Europe, as the museum dates back to the turn of the 20th century.

You can learn about the great architectural styles used across the city, from Gothic to Renaissance, while also enjoying the grand setting of the museum in an 18th-century heritage house.

11. Visit the Ghent City Museum

The Ghent City Museum, otherwise known as the STAM, is a relatively new museum that will give you a fresh insight into local history. There’s a huge collection of exhibits that trace the origins of the city, through to the modern era, and you’ll need to save plenty of time to truly appreciate what’s on display here.

For history lovers, it’s a must-do.

12. Wander Around the Korenmarkt

The Korenmarkt – or wheat market – is the main, central square in the city and a great place to visit. This has always been the center of the city and it’s here that you can find many of the most iconic buildings in Ghent.

The square is surrounded by tall, medieval structures, and today, many of these beautiful buildings have been converted into restaurants and bars.

Need to book a car for your road trip adventure? We use Discover Car Hire for comparing car prices to find the best deal. They search both local & international rental companies.

13. Huis van Alijn

The Huis van Alijn is a wonderful museum located in Ghent, and well worth your time while you are visiting the city. The museum is found in what was once an old children’s hospital, which operated out of charity for the sick and poor of the city.

It takes visitors on a journey through life in Ghent through the 20th century, allowing you to see what it was like to live here – for your average, normal person – through different decades.

14. Stop to Smell the Flowers at Graslei

Along the banks of the Leie River, you can find one of the oldest parts of Ghent, the Graslei. This is one of the best things to do in Ghent, as the historic quay on the river has been in use for well over a thousand years.

You can watch the boat traffic cruising along the river, you can enjoy beautiful vistas of the city, and you can enjoy the marvelous medieval buildings built here. The quay is old but it’s also undergone many revitalization projects in the past.

Today it’s the site of some of Ghent’s best cafes, and you can sit out and watch life go past on the river at leisure as you enjoy some refreshing beverages.

Our top recommended tours of Graslei:

• Guided Boat Trip in Ghent

15. Take A Boat Cruise

While you are at the quay, why not jump onto a boat for a cruise along the river. It’s a great way to gain a new perspective of the city, and it’s one of the best things to do in Ghent. You can join tours all through the week, but on weekends, the city also operates a hop on hop off water tram that takes you to all the major tourist attractions.

Our top recommended tours of Boat Cruises:

• Guided boat trip in medieval Ghent

More on Belgium:

• Belgium Travel Guide
• All the Reasons I Love Brussels
• 3 Day Bruges City Break Guide-Things to do in Bruges
• Belgium Adventure-Biking from Namur to Dinant
• Travel Insurance for Europe Vacation & Do I Need It?
• Ultimate Guide to Eurail Pass Train Travel in Europe
• When is the Best Time to Visit Europe?
• Best Places to Fly a Drone in Europe
• Viking River Cruises in Europe-What to Expect

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12 Best Things To Do In Ghent, Belgium

Belgium is an incredible country to explore! Yeah, it might be relatively small when it comes to size but don’t let that fool you at all. There are some stunning places in Belgium all across the country, with Ghent being no exception. It’s one of those Belgium cities that has a little something for everyone and a heap of the best things to do in Ghent that are dotted all around the city. 

Now, after places like the incredible city of Brussels and historic Bruges , Ghent is easily up there as one of the top spots to see whilst exploring Belgium.

Better still, it’s small enough to explore for a short break if you’re short on time. 

This is exactly why I wanted to share some of the best things to do in Ghent when you visit. It’s the kind of place that’s steeped in history and a perfect little stop as part of a wider trip, too. 

Take a look, below, at the best things to do in Ghent when you visit. Have the best time! 

1.) Find Gravensteen Castle

Now, for me, visiting Gravensteen Castle is easily one of the best things to do in Ghent and a must-see spot for sure. Built during the 12 th century for the count of Flanders, it’s totally stunning and is probably one of the best castles I’ve seen in Belgium.

Once inside, make sure to take the audio tour, too. Now, I’m not usually one for audio tours in themselves (they can be quite dry) but this one is totally funny.

Take a wander and discover more about the castle rooms or the battlements. It’s like stepping back in time. 

Afterwards, pop over to the Oak Restaurant for an evening dinner. They’ve created an 8-course dinner that is so tasty and is perfect for a little holiday treat. 

2.) Visit Saint Bavo’s Cathedral

Over 800 years old, Saint Bavo’s Cathedral is a totally iconic spot to see when exploring Ghent.

It’s both stunning inside and out and well worth a gander during your walk around the city. 

The cathedral itself is worth the time to visit with lots of artwork on display and there is a copy of the painting everyone is queuing for in chapel 30, ok it isn’t the original but saves you time if you are in a hurry.

Once inside, make sure to see the Ghent Altarpiece, which is called the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb. It is believed to be one of the world’s earliest oil paintings dating back to the 15 th century and one of the most important in all of Belgium. For such a small city, the cathedral is totally imposing and iconic. 

3.) See the MSK Art Gallery

The MSK Art Gallery is in a building that looks like it belongs in Ancient Greece with its imposing columns. That being said, it’s Belgium you’re in and, for me, its got to be one of the best places to explore European artwork. 

Once here, you’ll find lots of Belgian and Dutch art, alongside the Van Eyck tryptic that is currently being restored here. Some of the artwork dates from the 14 th century and reaches all the way to the present day. It’s a great spot to visit if you love art and even better if the weather looks a little grumpy.

That being said, if you’re not into your art, you might want to give this one a miss! 

4.) Explore Patershol

Patershol is a totally picturesque part of the city and exploring it is easily one of the best things to do in Ghent. Better still, it’s a great area to visit when you are feeling hungry, too; there are loads of restaurants here.

Now, it’s traditionally an area where leather tradesmen were located on the cobbled streets, though it’s so much more today.

Once here, hop into t’Klaverblad, it’s a totally yummy French restaurant that’s perfect for lunch. That being said, if you’re only feeling peckish, pop into one of the traditional pubs here and grab yourself a Belgian Beer and kroakemandels . They’re a little like fried peas and pretty tasty.

5.) Visit Saint Peter’s Abbey

Now, it might be a little far from the centre itself, but if you’re interested in historical spots in Ghent, then Saint Peter’s Abbey is a great place to go. 

Once inside the abbey, explore the exhibitions, halls and abbey, too. Though, in my opinion, this audio tour is quite cheesy! 

If you’ve worked up an appetite, grab a table at Allegro Moderato, they serve up a wine-paired seasonal menu that is so good.

For an incredible tour of Ghent, book this 3-hour guided tour of the city by bike. It’s a small group tour that will get you all around the historic centre of the city and the suburbs, too! 

6.) Go up the Belfry of Ghent

Built within the 14 th century and a dragon sits on top of the weathervane and is one of the medieval towers that completely overlooks the city itself.

Now, you can climb to the top of the tower to get some incredible views across Ghent itself. That being said, if you don’t fancy the stairs, there’s also a lift that’ll take you to the top! This makes it totally easy to visit and is well worth going up. 

It really is one of the best things to do in Ghent if you’re looking for some views over the city. 

7.) See the museums of Ghent

One of the best things about Ghent is that it’s got a shed load of museums and cultural sites to visit once you arrive. 

Now, two museums I really recommend you visit, are; the MIAT, and STAM. Firstly, the MIAT is where you can learn about the city’s industrial history, it is a former mill and the exhibits are on five floors and give you a proper insight into how Ghent changed over the centuries.

You will discover 250 years of industry through machinery that is still operating. Though, if this sounds a little tedious to you, maybe give this one a miss. 

Alternatively, STAM goes a little further back into history, 70,000 years. This building was formerly a nunnery, and the exhibits show how life and the city have evolved through time. It’s pretty interesting and a great spot on a rainy day. 

8.) Explore Vrijdagmarkt

Not too far from Gravensteen, Vrijdagmarkt is one of Ghent’s stunning squares to see.

Now, the Vrijdagmarkt was named after the Friday market that is still held here every week here. This all means Friday is a great day to visit if you want to see the square in action. 

Oh, and don’t forget to spot the statue of Artevelde that dominates the square, too.

9.) See the stunning Stadhuis

Ghent has so many beautiful buildings for you to see and one that particularly stands out is the Stadhuis or the city hall. It’s a totally stunning building and well worth keeping your eyes peeled for. 

Apparently, It took almost a century to be completed in the year 1600 and it still stands today; those builders must have been good! 

10.) Try some tasty grub

When you come to Ghent you will be impressed by the food, it is diverse and tasty. Gruut Beer is locally produced and one of the country’s tastiest tasting beers.

You should also try Stoverij, a tasty Belgian beef stew, or Waterzooi, a fish stew that has existed since the Middle Ages. Honestly, you’ll be stuffed. Now, if you’re really hungry, pop into Du Progres (on Korenmarkt 10) that make the juiciest Chateaubriand and varkenswangetjes that is so good! 

11.) Saint Nicholas’ Church

Easily one of the oldest buildings in all of Ghent, Saint Nicholas’ Church is a spot you have to see in the city. Honestly, it’s huge and you kinda can’t miss it! 

Once inside, make sure to explore the building and see the wooden pulpit that is so ornate. Plus, It’s right in the centre of the historic centre of Ghent so it’s so easy to visit. 

12.) Stroll through Graslei and Korenlei

Perched on the city’s Leie River, exploring Graslei and Korenlei is easily one of the best things to do in Ghent during a short trip. You see, it gives you a real taste of the history of the city and it’s totally picturesque. 

The merchant houses are so ornate and the whole area is filled with little shops and cafes where you can literally whisk away a day.

Better still, if you’re feeling like it, hop onboard one of the small boats that tour the city through the historic canals. For the best tour, You should book this Ghent boat cruise of the medieval centre that’s just so gorgeous.

You’ll get to see all the main sights, including; St Bavo’s Cathedral the old guild halls and so much more. It’s a great way to give your legs a rest and see Ghent from a different perspective. 

Afterwards, pop over to Sint-Michiel bridge for a lovely view across to Gravensteen and the medieval quay itself.

It really is a special area of the city. 

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9 Gorgeous Town And Cities In Belgium To Visit

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A guide to Ghent, Belgium's rebellious, unsung city

Youthful and rebellious, Ghent is stepping out of Bruges’s shadow as a Belgian canal-side classic

In the 16th century, Ghent lost it all on the wrong bet. Built around rivers and canals, it was Europe’s second-largest urban centre, falling just behind Paris. When Holy Roman Emperor Charles V, who ruled over Belgium, raised taxes to fund military action abroad, the city refused to pay out. They’d already given a fair share, locals argued, and surely Charles, who had been born in Ghent, wouldn’t turn on his home. In response, he marched into the city with his army, stripping it of its finery and parading its leaders in their undershirts, nooses around their necks.  

Today, you can find evidence of the city’s illustrious past in its historical centre, home to a UNESCO-listed belfry and the Gravensteen, a stone fortress said to have been inspired by Crusader castles. And while its heyday is now behind it, Ghentians proudly tell the story of their fall from grace as proof of their rebellious streak.  

This spirit survived, the sign of a place that’s at ease with its identity: socially conscious and full of fresh ideas. Initiatives like Nucleo are repurposing empty spaces into artists’ studios, and inviting the public to peer in once a year — in 2024, the open day is on 5 May. Meanwhile, chefs are experimenting with the earth’s pantry, casting Ghent as a European vegetarian capital. This energy is partly due to it being Flanders’ biggest university city: out of some 267,000 residents, over a quarter are students. This ensures a near endless supply of speciality-roast coffee in the Overpoort student district, and nightlife ranging from candle-lit wine bars to sweaty warehouses, reverberating with the kind of techno more often associated with Berlin.  

The city was named 2024 European Youth Capital by the European Youth Forum — and it’s no surprise. In April, it will celebrate the accolade as part of the biennial Ghent International Festival, which will feature opera as well as dancers on roller-skates. Events will continue throughout the year, with locals as young as 15 invited to contribute ideas. As for what they’ll come up with, all bets are off.

What to see and do

1. Historic quays If you’ve seen photos of Ghent before, chances are they’re of the Graslei and Korenlei. Once the city’s centre of trade, these quays remain a hub of activity, lined with cafe terraces and moorings for boat tours. They’re the gateway to the historical centre, as well as the neighbourhoods of Patershol, a former working-class district turned culinary hotspot, and Prinsenhof, a residential area that was once home to royalty.  

2. The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb This altarpiece by the Van Eyck brothers is the most stolen artwork of all time — it was even robbed by Napoleon, and over the years, it’s been forged and almost destroyed. It marked the transition from Middle Ages to Renaissance in Flemish art: admire its genre-defining details at St Bavo’s Cathedral , where a VR tour leads visitors through its history.

3. Street art Ever since a historical centre passageway — now known as Graffiti Alley — was given over to street artists in the 1990s, murals have claimed Ghent like vines. Free to download, the ‘Sorry, Not Sorry’ map pinpoints some of the most famous. Pieces from homegrown talent include the rabbits by big-name ROA on Tempelhof and the foxes on Napoleon Destanbergstraat, which helped artist Kitsune make a name for herself.  

4. Dok Noord In the city’s northern reaches, an old factory complex has been turned into Dok Noord, one of Ghent’s newest leisure and office developments. Its main draw is Hal 16, a food hall in a former brick warehouse. Try barbecued dishes or Italian specialities including mafaldine pasta with octopus ragu, then quench your thirst at Dok Brewing Company. There are 30 beers on tap, but Waar is Loca, a pale ale brewed on site, is a crowd favourite.  

5. Museum of Industry Belgium was the first country in mainland Europe where the Industrial Revolution took hold. Housed inside a former cotton mill, this museum traces Ghent’s rise to textile powerhouse. The star of the collection is Belgium’s first spinning mule, a machine created to speed up yarn production: local Lieven Bauwens smuggled its components out of the UK, as export of such machinery had been banned.

6.   Bike Ghent Cristophe De Smet takes you beyond the city’s historical centre on two-wheeled tours of his hometown. Book a private ride to tailor the itinerary to your interests, whether you want to learn about beguinages (former religious communities for women) or Belgium’s first worker housing complex, named Zebra Street, which is now a venue for contemporary installations and even a pop-up swimming pool in the summer.

Where to eat in Ghent

1. Knol & Kool The choice at this vegan cafe, a few steps from the belfry, ranges from vegetable lasagne with rocket pesto and almond parmesan to bánh mì overstuffed with tofu, pickled carrot and red cabbage. Check out the on-site vegan minimarket for hibiscus-flavoured beer, green leek miso paste and nut cheese made locally.

2. Lepelblad This modern restaurant in tranquil Onderbergen, near the historical centre, works with local farmers and small producers to celebrate the season’s bounty. The menu might change depending on the day’s supply, but expect dishes like chicory tarte tatin with onion cream and mustard salad or marinated beef with salsify, soy and herbs. Each comes with a recommended wine and beer pairing.  

3. Oak This one-Michelin-starred restaurant is celebrating its 10th anniversary with a refurbished look but has retained the minimalist, dark-toned decor that lets its menu shine. Brazilian chef Marcelo Ballardin’s multi-course menus lean into his international background with creations such as mackerel with Philippine calamansi lime or sea bass with tucupi sauce, extracted from wild manioc root in the Amazon rainforest.

Where to go shopping  

1. Home Linen This boutique on the Korenlei has been crafting its own designs since the 19th century. A lavender scent permeates the space, which sells lace tablecloths decorated with red lobsters, retro night gowns and children’s dresses embroidered with rosebuds. It’s all reasonably priced, despite Belgian linen being renowned for its softness.

2. Antiques Ghent has a seemingly endless assortment of vintage shops. Located opposite each other on central Baudelostraat, Antiek-Depot has overflowing shelves of curios, while Moca has ceilings hung with chairs and tambourines. For more precise perusing, Galerie St-John has a pedigree selection of cutlery, porcelains and Belgian paintings, all housed in a former baroque church.      

3. Sweets & condiments While Belgium is known for waffles and chocolate, Ghentians will recommend different specialities. Cuberdons are nose-shaped hard candies filled with fruit syrup; get a packet at Patershol’s Confiserie Temmerman , which dates to 1904. Even older is Tierenteyn-Verlent in the historical centre, selling a locally famous mustard made using a secret recipe.  

After hours

1. ‘t Dreupelkot It’s been over four decades since Paul Rysenaer opened this pint-sized pub a few steps from the Graslei, where barrels serve as high tables and wood cabinets display shot glasses. Head here to try jenever, a juniper-flavoured Belgian and Dutch spirit: there are some 200 varieties on the shelves, some distilled by Paul himself.

2. The Cobbler Walk up a spiral staircase and into this low-lit cocktail bar within 1898 The Post hotel , one of the city’s trendiest addresses. It’s hard to say what’s better: the location on the Graslei, overlooking gothic St Nicholas’ Church, or its signature concoctions. Try the fruity pear sonata with vodka, Cointreau, cassis and pear, or the herbal downstairs harry, a mix of rum, cognac, vermouth, Chartreuse, maple syrup and sage.

3. Jazz clubs A UNESCO Creative City of Music, Ghent has a special affinity with jazz. Every July, Gent Jazz takes over a former 13th-century hospital with performances by the likes of Gregory Porter and Norah Jones, but you’ll find sessions to jam out to all year. Hot Club Gent , an intimate bar, and Missy Sippy , a self-styled ‘modern juke joint’, are good places to start in the historical centre.    

Like a local

1. Portus Ganda Ghent’s name comes from ganda, Celtic for ‘confluence’. The city was founded where the rivers Lys and Scheldt meet; when the Graslei and Koreneli get too busy, follow the canals to this very spot, now a tranquil marina. If visiting in warm months, detour to St Bavo’s Abbey, where hornbeam bushes mark the outline of a long-lost church.  

2. The Bakery When pastry chef Joost Arijs set up a chocolate shop in SoGo — Ghent’s shopping district — in 2011, it was quickly named Belgium’s best by restaurant guide Gault & Millau. Opened down the road in 2023, his follow-up bakery was always going to draw in curious locals but, a year on, the morning queues show no sign of subsiding. Come early to have your pick of the crispiest croissants.  

3. Veggie Thursdays In 2009, Ghent was the first city in the world to introduce a weekly meat-free day — an initiative that’s since been replicated from Taipei to Los Angeles. Take part yourself at Boon , an airy, Scandi-chic vegetarian lunch bar opposite the Gravensteen. The seasonal soups, salads and slices of quiche will have you coming back for more no matter what day of the week it is.

Where to stay in Ghent

1. Ganda Rooms and Suites You’ll be hard-pressed to find better value for money than this B & B, set in an 18th-century townhouse in the historical centre. The eight rooms retain original mantelpieces and wooden beams, and the owners worked with artisans to furnish them with bespoke beds and Belgian art.

2. Pillows Grand Hotel Reylof True to its former life as a baronial residence, this four-star hotel dazzles at first sight with a sweeping staircase in its marbled, neoclassical lobby. Set in a separate building, the 157 rooms are a more pared-back affair, but with common areas including a library and a bijou spa in what was a carriage house — plus the Graslei a stone’s throw away — there’s more than enough to keep you busy.

3.   Hotel Verhaegen Frescoes, a landscaped garden, a bath house with vaulted ceilings: there’s nothing subtle about this city palace, a short walk from the historical centre. It was reimagined as a four-room guesthouse by a pair of interior designers, who combined hand-picked antiques with 21st-century touches. Splurge on the Suite des Annees ’40 — though at some 750sq ft, the term ‘suite’ hardly does it justice.  

Related Topics

• CITY GUIDES
• MODERN HISTORY
• LIVING HISTORY
• FOOD HISTORY

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44 Fun Things to Do in Ghent

• 9 Pinterest

Brimming with lively plazas, world-class museums, well-preserved Medieval architecture, and idyllic canals, Ghent, Belgium comes second to none when it comes to all the incredible experiences to enjoy.

Located in one of the most densely populated regions of Europe, the east Flanders region, Ghent is the capital city of the Dutch-speaking minority territory in Belgium.

Towering medieval structures, including Gravensteen Castle, historic ports like the port of Graslei, and the Leie River add a beauty like no other. Getting lost in Ghent is possibly one of the best things to happen!

Take a captivating tour of Ghent on bike, foot, or on boat, learn about Flemish history, visit the best-kept castles in Belgium, and learn about interesting facts that will deepen your appreciation for “the historic heart of Flanders”.

Explore the fantastic culinary scene consisting of traditional Flemish cuisine!  Enchant your senses by following the scent of world-class chocolate and waffles wafting through the air, along with the sound of the carillon playing in Old Town.

So let’s get started, and see the best things to do in Ghent !

Want to dive straight in? Browse our catalog now!

• Ghent tours

1 – See the torture collection inside the Gravensteen Castle

Check out the 12th-century Gravnsteen Castle, a fortress castle only 20 minutes north of Ghent. Experience an immersive walkthrough of the city’s rough social and political history, as you enter the revamped castle, with its powerful 24 medieval towers.

Adorned in medieval decor, from the ancient exterior stone to the tapestries and furniture, the castle which once belonged to Count Philip of Alsace is a must-see sight for visitors as it’s the only medieval castle in the region with a moat and strong defense walls.

Another highly popular attraction inside the castle is the collection of medieval torture tools inside the “Executioners Cabinet.” There you’ll see items used by specific people to torture criminals and learn about the horrendous torture methods used, from terrible to inhumane.

Want to catch some air? Head towards the top of the castle, boasting incredible views of the city and surrounding nature.

2 – Take a spectacular walking tour of Old Town

Explore the beauty of Old Town, and uncover the hidden legends and stories of the quaint squares and historic buildings in Ghent on a walking tour led by a local.

Enjoy the beautiful Vrijdagmarkt Square, known for its lively restaurants, cafes, and shops, and discover on your Ghent walking tour some of the hidden secrets of this square, many of which were dark occasions.

Take note of the statue of Jacob van Artevelde in the heart of the square, known as a local hero for helping to support Ghent’s neutrality during the 100 Years War between France and England.

Check out Groentenmarkt Square, brimming with delicious finds, from candy shops selling regional sweets to buzzing bars, and much more. You’ll know you’ve arrived when you spot the 19th century water pump.

Lastly, don’t miss the old fish market, known as one of Ghent’s oldest markets, and currently located at Sint-Veerleplein square and Rabot, the 15th-century bridge with 2 incredible towers on each side, perfect for a quick selfie!

• walking tours in Ghent

3 – Take a look at the unique architecture of St. Nicholas Church

Gaze up at the impressive Saint Nicholas Church, one of the oldest and most prominent landmarks in Ghent, dating to the 13th century.

The church dons a specific Scheldt Gothic-style exterior, while on the inside, something interesting to note about its construction is the tallest tower situated not on the front of the church, but towards the back where the naves cross.

This choice allows the church to stand out beautifully at night as somewhat of a lighthouse with the lights from the altar shining through the windows of the tower.

Right beside the church is Korenmarkt Square, a lively square that today houses a large outdoor cafe, perfect for a mid-day coffee or delectable lunch with a locally brewed beer.

It’s one of the highlights of any Ghent day trip, being an ideal spot to people-watch and catch a glimpse of the Gothic style former post office building, which was recently revamped as a boutique hotel.

4 – Admire the works of art inside Saint Bavo’s Cathedral

Step inside the beautiful Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, situated in the heart of Ghent. Saint Bavo’s Cathedral was built on the same site of a 10th-century church.

During Ghent’s most prosperous eras, the city prioritized building the best churches possible. So then came St Bavo’s Cathedral in the 15th-16th centuries.

Stop by to admire the delicate details of the church, from the historic stained glass windows and religious carvings on the exterior to the impressive details inside.

Check out the religious paintings and sculptures inside by Flemish artist Laurent Delvaux, and the beauty of the Ghent Altarpiece, also known as the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb, an 18-panel painting by the Van Eyck brothers. Inside rests the body of the Flemish painter Peter Paul Ruben who designed the oil paintings on the altar.

4 minutes away is the historic Gerald the Devil Castle, a 13th-century fortress that had many uses throughout time, from a monastery to an insane asylum.

5 – Meet Belfry of Ghent, the city’s keeper

Sandwiched between the Saint Nicholas’ Church and St. Bavo’s Cathedral is the middle tower called Belfry of Ghent. You’ll notice at the top of the bell tower there is a figure of a dragon, which is said to be the watchful eye of the historic Old Town of Ghent.

The story says that the Ghent Belfry, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, symbolizes prosperity and independence, and throughout time, was also the city’s safe that held the most valued items and treasures in the city.

See some of those treasures for yourself when you step inside and check out the biggest one of all, the incredible views of the historic city centre! While inside, learn about local folklore, including that of “Mammelokker”.

From above, listen to the sweet sound of the carillon playing, typically every Sunday morning, or every Saturday night in July and August.

6 – Get a different perspective of Ghent on a boat trip

Take a scenic boat trip through the beautiful canals around Ghent, as you peek around the city’s most notable landmarks. See the stunning Count Castle, the medieval port of Graslei, and the varied architecture of the buildings right beside the water.

Catch sight of the Belfry and two of Ghent’s most important churches, right from your seat on the boat, all the while your tour guide shares fascinating city facts.

The 40-minute experience typically departs from the historic port of Graslei and is easy to find, so make sure to come with your ticket ready to scan. You can join the Ghent canal cruise at any point during its operating hours.

The boat has a removable cover, just in case the weather suddenly changes.

We also recommend going for the water tramway , which is similar to a hop-on-hop-off tour bus only by water! Ride along Ghent’s scenic canals, and move around the city in this unique way!

• boat tours in Ghent

7 – Enjoy a picnic at Citadelpark

Located 9 minutes south of Old Town is the beautiful Citadel Park.

It is a lovely 15.3 hectares park designed in a typical English garden style, with hilly outlooks, curvy walkways, and little green spaces perfect for a picnic. Check out over 100 different tree species with 38 of them considered uniquely rare.

Other parks to check out include Gentbrugse Meersen. Although it’s still being finalized, the park is designed to naturally change with the season, and remain untouched by humans to prioritize the local ecology. Bring your best shoes and walk the 1-kilometer path!

Check out Keizerpark with 2 cycle bridges where bikers can get a bit of exercise, or chill out underneath by the ample green spaces with a good book and snacks.

Baudelopark is another great park to hang out with the locals, located only 7 minutes on foot from Old Town.

8 – Appreciate Flemish art inside the Museum of Fine Arts

The Museum of Fine Arts is one of the best places to check out art in Ghent, as it houses over 600 different works of art, created by some of the most renowned European artists of the Middle Ages and Renaissance.

Housing an amazing collection of paintings, drawings, sculptures, and more, the Museum of Fine Arts was established after the Ghent Rebellion. The rebel group decided to reclaim the paintings taken by the French during their rule of Ghent in the 18th century, and placed them together to form the museum today.

Inside, you can see some of the greatest art from Flemish artists including Peter Paul Rubens, James Ensor, and Hieronymus Bosch inside the Flemish Art Collection. Other noteworthy items to check out inside are the temporary exhibits, as well as a few contemporary pieces that offer a contrast to historic and modern-day Ghent.

Tickets can be purchased ahead of time, which also includes access to temporary exhibits.

• Museum of Fine Arts Tickets

9 – Follow a local guide on a bike tour through Ghent

Wander through the picture-perfect city of Ghent, uncovering its secret passageways, as well as a few routes off the beaten path on a memorable bike tour.

Ride along as you uncover thought-provoking street art, historic sculptures, and spaces loved and frequented by the locals on your bike tour, with plenty of opportunities to stop for a quick photo op!

When you choose a bike tour, you’ll get the option to pick from a morning or afternoon bike ride, which includes the bike, bottle of water, a helmet, and even a poncho in case the weather plays last-minute tricks!

Bike tours are one of the best ways to see a new city, as you’re guided to see much more of the city than you would on a walking tour. So if you’re short on time, but want to see more, consider a bike tour!

• bike tours in Ghent

10 – Explore local cultures and daily life at the House of Alijn

Known locally as the “Museum about Life” the House of Alijn is a unique museum not found in many other cities that sheds light on life in the 20th century, specifically in Ghent. It’s an amazing opportunity to get to know the local culture, and truly see what a “day in the life” is really like.

Explore the various and fun exhibits inside, created to put focus on customs and traditions that started years ago and still maintain part of local life in modern Ghent. Enter themed rooms that tell a story about a specific moment in life that is all too relatable, or learn about how people of other cultures live and manage universal life situations.

One of the main focuses of the museum is to highlight the moments and events that happen in everyday life that make it extraordinary.

11 – Appreciate a romantic evening at a Candlelight concert

Whether you’re planning a romantic activity with your partner in Ghent or you’re looking for an excuse to get out and enjoy a unique musical experience, make sure to consider a dazzling Candlelight Concert in Ghent!

Creating worldwide sensation, a Candlelight Concert uniquely offers a classical musical rendition of your favorite artists and their biggest hits while settled in a dim stage lit up by thousands of different little lights.

Adding an aura of peace and beauty, a Candlelight Concert is the best way to enjoy music in a way, that you’ll feel like you’re listening to a brand new song!

From the greatest hits from ABBA, Queen, and classical music giants like Vivaldi, Mozart, and Beethoven, all you have to do to score tickets is check online and purchase your tickets. You’ll then receive e-tickets straight to your email for a smooth experience.

• candlelight concerts in Ghent

12 – Sample the best brews on a beer tasting tour

Sip on the best local brews on a beer tasting, taking you through the best pubs and breweries in and around Ghent.

See the city by night with a sample of the best local beers, savoring the variety of aromas and flavors known in Ghent beers including floral, herbal, and fruity. You’ll also sample the most popular beers including the Belgian blonde ale!

On your Ghent beer tour, you’ll stop by perhaps one of the most popular watering holes, Dulle Griet , named after a cannon and located in the beautiful Vrijdagmarkt Square. The bar offers a whopping 500 different types of beers, so you’ll want some guidance on tasting the finest local beers.

While you’re sipping on the brews, you’ll also learn the behind-the-scenes work that goes into Belgian beer crafting, as well as the history of beer consumption in Ghent.

• beer tasting in Ghent

13 – Admire the different architectural styles at Ghent City Hall

The Ghent City Hall is a fascinating historical and political building located in the heart of Old Town.

Book a tour to learn and see the different architectural styles with eccentric carvings on the wing’s exteriors. While everything from Later-Gothic to Renaissance, Italian, and Greek columns make up the exterior, the 51 rooms, intricate stained glass windows, and romantic chapel make up a bit of the interior.

Beside Ghent city town hall, step inside the City Pavilion, also known as the Stadhal, a modern building in Old Town. Inside you can check out several tourist attractions from markets to live entertainment.

Dine exquisitely at the Italian cafe, Sgol, and afterward, rent a bike at Bike Point nearby to burn off some of the delicious treats in Ghent. Looking to relax? Head to The Green, surrounded by a stone wall alongside many locals.

14 – Satisfy your inner chocoholic at a chocolate tasting

Belgium as a whole is known for its incredible variety and craft of chocolate-making, and while visiting Ghent, you too can get a “taste” of just what makes chocolate here so delicious!

Walk alongside a local guide on a chocolate tour as you discover the best chocolateries in all of Ghent, sampling the best local chocolates from the chocolatiers themselves. Learn about the process of chocolate making, the history of this process, and why Ghent is the city in Belgium to buy the best chocolate.

As you discover the best chocolate of your life, you’ll also get a tour of the different corners of medieval Ghent, opening your eyes to the charm of the city through the lens of sweets.

From candies to ice cream, to drinks, and more, you’ll come out of the tour satisfied as well as with a stronger admiration for this time-honored sweet treat.

• chocolate tastings in Ghent

15 – Do some sports activities at Blaarmeersen sports and recreation

Engage in all the fun there is to be had at Blaarmeersen sports and recreation, as you mingle with the locals in one of the grandest parks in Ghent.

From walking or taking a jog around the park to playing mini golf, football, tennis, or even rugby, it’s all here! What’s more is that there is a beach with sand to play on, as well as canoe rides and kayak tours to take part in, many of which are offered at night called “Ghent by Night” kayak tours.

Whether you have small children or it’s just you and your friends, your excursion must include a stop at Blaarmeersen sports and recreation for a day in the sun lounging around or taking advantage of all the activities in Ghent.

The park is located 30 minutes from Old Town on public transportation.

16 – Walk through the oldest mental asylum in Belgium at  the Museum Dr. Guislain

Surely one of the most unique things to do in Ghent is to visit the Museum Dr. Guislain Gent , a museum dedicated to the history of psychiatry, located inside a previous mental asylum.

Dr. Guislain, after whom the museum is named, was a doctor and academic who didn’t agree with the inhumane ways that doctors and society saw and treated mentally ill people. His work to change treatment triggered a social movement, which is what inspired the museum to open in 1986.

Walk through the halls of the museum to learn more about the history of the way that mentally ill people were treated in Ghent, how psychiatry began, and how it has developed.

As you walk the halls of what is the oldest mental asylum in Belgium, appreciate the evolution of mental health, while learning about ways to continue to work as individuals.

17 – Discover new universes with a virtual reality session

The technology just keeps getting better and better with VR, and no matter your age or preference, you can joyfully lose yourself in a new world!

Become a player in a real-life video game, or journey through time – backwards or forwards! Offering multiple different experiences, like zombie apocalypse and science experiments gone wrong, plus more, choosing which VR experience you’ll dip into is half the fun!

Starting at only $33 USD for 1 hour of play, per person, get ready to leave Ghent for a moment and escape into a new reality! If you’re traveling with children, kids ages 14 and up are also allowed to play with an accompanying adult. VR experiences are available in various languages including English, so no need to worry about any language barriers!

It’s a stark departure from your average sightseeing experience! Are you ready for it?

• virtual reality experiences near Ghent

18 – Support the home football team at The Ghelamco Arena

Catch a game at the Ghelamco Arena, the home arena of Ghent’s football club KAA Gent . Opened in 2013, the new and modernized arena was built to replace the old arena built in the 70s.

Whether you opt to sit in for an exciting football match, or you decide to step in for a comprehensive tour of the arena, you’re bound to have an exciting time learning and witnessing football passion at its highest in Ghent.

Built with cutting-edge technology, LED lighting, and other sustainable solutions, the 20,000-seat stadium welcomes crowds of locals and visitors during each football season to cheer on the home team! So if you plan to attend a game, make sure to pack some blue and white colors to support Ghent!

Check out Artevelde Park near the arena, a modern park with tons of amenities from shops, restaurants, cafes, and office buildings.

19 – Try a cuberdon on a food tour

Get ready to eat like a local on a food tour through Ghent, as you visit some of the best food stops in the city, from restaurants, to markets, and street food vendors!

Try everything from Gentse Waterzooi, a Flemish stew with chicken or fish, and shrimp croquettes, to cheeses like Nazareth and Pas de Rouge.

Ghent is also known for its sweets including chocolate, and a unique dessert called Cuberdon. Cuberdon is a fruity sugar cone with a sweet filling that is very typical in Ghent. If you have a sweet tooth, you can further indulge with a chocolate tour.

You’ll see tons of street cars and vendors selling these little deserts, so you’ll definitely have the chance to try one on the food tour!

As you explore the culinary scene throughout Ghent on your palette, you’ll also be visiting unique parts of the Belgian city, from the old harbor at Graslei to Vrijdagmarkt.

• food tours in Ghent

20 – Stop and smell the roses at Ghent University Botanical Garden

Explore the wonderful and varied 10,000 plant species scattered throughout the park, as you take a look at the herbarium and fascinating seed collection at the Ghent University Botanical Garden .

Step inside the Victoria Greenhouse, housing tropical plants for free. Check out the special Succulent House too, open only on Sundays between 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM.

See the botany classes held at the park, teaching younger students about plants and herbs, and if you would also like to learn about the local plants, schedule a guided tour in English and French!

The park is open Monday-Friday 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM and 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays.

The Ghent University Museum is located in the center of the botanical garden, so if you have time, step inside to learn about science and research.

21 – Engage with the thought-provoking art inside SMAK – Municipal Museum of Contemporary Art

Put your thinking caps on or simply see what speaks to you when you visit the exhibitions at SMAK – Municipal Museum of Contemporary Art .

Known to house some provocative examples of art, SMAK houses a variety of different forms of contemporary art, including pop art, minimal art, conceptual art, and many more styles. Many of the works inside were created by Belgian artists including Marcel Broodthaers, and there is also a section for international contemporary artists.

After your visit to SMAK, don’t forget to stop by for a little ice cream treat at Crèmerie GUILLAUME, named after the Belgian visual artist, Guillaume Bijl.

Inside the crèmerie, you can continue the art observation as you look at examples of Bijl’s art all over the space. Check out the art assemblage “Sorry” which will both confuse you and enlighten you in the best way!

22 – See the Windmill Farm at the North Sea in Blankenberge

Learn about the specific and unique function of the Wind Farms located in the North Sea in Blackenberge.

Aside from learning interesting facts about this unique site in the Flanders, you’ll also be intrigued by the sight of this magnificent place!

On this 2.5-hour-long tour from Ghent, your guide will share with you how the windmill farm influences and provides the amount of power to the region, as well as how many years the windmill farm has existed, and its previous purposes including used in shipping routes, and more!

Not to mention, this is a great opportunity to get out of the hustle and bustle of Ghent for a while and explore the famed North Sea for a unique experience while passing by the Belgian countryside, that you normally wouldn’t be able to see.

The tours start at $74.71 USD.

• Windmill Farm in Blankenberge

23 – Walk through the colorful Graffiti Street

Did you know that Ghent has a rule-free street where locals can unleash their creativity fully? It’s called Graffiti Street, and it should be on everyone’s list of things to do in Ghent for its everchanging spray art creations.

The creative and cobblestoned Graffiti street is located only a 2-minute walk from Old Town Ghent, and it is a completely pedestrian-friendly street. The creative, rule-free street began in 1995 as a simple project, which has been carried out to be a local canvas and tourist sight to see.

So whether you’re an artist yourself, or you’re looking for a truly unique Ghent backdrop for your photos, check out Grafitti Street!

If you want to see Grafitti Street as well as get more of the backstory behind this public canvas, while seeing other awesome examples of public art, consider booking the street art and graffiti tour !

24 – Have a coffee at the historic Graslei and Korenlei

Have an aperitif, or a small snack while you enjoy sitting on the Graslei and Korenlei quays. A favorite pastime for locals, you too can enjoy the weather on a sunny day hanging your feet by the water, as you chat with your friends, watching the boats come in and out near the quays.

By night, see the beautiful reflection of the architecture on opposite sides of the quay on the water, and take a look at the statue of the swans going towards each other, alluding to the history of one of the buildings.

If you’re looking for more food options swing by Patershol, a famous food neighborhood only 8 minutes away.

Enjoy foods from around the world here, including regional Flemish cuisine! No matter the occasion you’re celebrating, from a quick dinner to a fancier meal, you’ll find the perfect spot in Patershol.

25 – Attend a show at the Ghent Opera

Pack your best outfit to hit the Ghent Opera for a spectacular evening of music, performance, and entertainment.

Whether it’s a classical opera concert, a documentary film screening, or an avant-garde musical, you’ll want to check out the calendar with upcoming shows to truly see what kind of shows you can experience.

Located in the heart of Old Town, the beautiful horse-shaped theater and its opulent chandelier grace the center of the theater’s vaulted ceilings. The details inside truly elevate the affair, along with the attentive staff awaiting your arrival.

The red and green velvet touches along with the carvings on the side of the balconies truly add a beauty that is meant to be experienced as much as the performance itself.

To check out upcoming performances, and purchase tickets ahead of time, make sure to head to the opera’s main site.

26 – Embrace the breezes while kitesurfing

This sport may look bizarre, but it’s easy to get started; all you need is a board, a kite, and some choice breezes!

After a lesson or two, you’ll find yourself scooting across the surface of the water; and if conditions are right, you might even be able to get airborne!

Whether you’re new to the experience of wakeboarding, or you’re a seasoned pro, wakeboarding is a sport that welcomes people of all skill levels! Learn as you go, or show off your best moves, as your wakeboarding instructor helps you out with their best skills and tips.

Wakeboarding experiences in Ghent typically last around 2.5 hours, and can even extend to a few days if you’re up for any of the multi-day trips from Ghent that involve wakeboarding! Children ages 12 and up are encouraged to participate as well!

27 – Get stunning views of the city from the St Michael’s Bridge and Saint Michael’s Church

Only a 7-minute walk from Old Town is Saint Michael’s Church, filled with religious relics and historical structures and sculptures worthy of a visit.

Admire 18th century statues and paintings by Flemish painter van Dyck. Don’t miss out on viewing the collection of silver and gold items, one of which is a relic of St. Dorothea, which was a gift from Queen Mary of Scotts, and a cross gifted by Archduke Albrect and Isabella from Austria.

Make sure to walk slowly along the picturesque St. Michael’s Bridge, an ornate bridge where you can view the Gralei and Koenlei, the Kasteel van de Graven (the “Castle of Counts” in Dutch), and the sparkling Old Town. Bring your phone to snap your best selfie in one of the most romantic corners of Ghent!

As you’re walking, you may notice on one of the lamp posts the statue of an Angel and Dragon, symbolizing Archangel Michael defeating evil spirits.

28 – Channel your inner detective as you play some scavenger games

Make Ghent your scene as you play the role of Sherlock, unlocking the different hidden gems and spots across Ghent.

Download the fun scavenger game to your phone, and unleash a new and fun way to confidently start exploring Ghent, as you solve the different riddles and questions, prompting you to find the items for yourself.

Whether you play on your own, or with your travel mates, you can go as fast as you can or as slow as you’d like, making pit stops to grab a selfie or two along the way!

Once you purchase your ticket, you’ll be able to start the game whenever you’d like, so you can really call the shots with this activity!

The self-guided tour starts in front of Saint Michael’s church. At $6 USD, this is one of the most budget-friendly ways to explore the city!

• scavenger games in Ghent

29 – Smell the aromatic blooms at Saint Peter’s Abbey

Saint Peter’s Abbey is one of the most popular Ghent attractions, known for its charming gardens filled with aromatic lavender and fruit trees, fertile vineyards, and a historic benedictine abbey.

Doused in history, learn and view ruins that belonged to the Benedictine monks, as well as their practices from making their own wine to learning about the medicinal herbs planted in the garden for healing.

You’ll also learn about the previous infirmary that existed in the Middle Ages, on the premise of the abbey.

Today, you can visit this slice of botanical heaven, whether you’re looking to have a picnic in the green spaces, read a book, or just hang out in the sun for a moment.

Saint Peter’s Abbey is free to enter, and it’s located 11 minutes away from Old Town and is open daily from 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM.

30 – Learn more about the city at the STAM Ghent City Museum

Follow the historical events that occurred in Ghent, from the Middle Ages to the current day, and everything in between at the STAM Ghent City Museum .

Observe how the city modernized throughout time with the museum’s technological exhibits, allowing you to literally step on the city’s projection to see it come alive, changing year after year.

Aside from learning about the city’s history, culture and traditions, the museum also covers fascinating information on how Ghent fits in with the country of Belgium, and all of Europe.

The museum itself is a mix of modern meets historical, very reminiscent of Ghent’s varied past! Make sure to head to the beautiful terrace of STAMcafé and enjoy midday pick me up!

Pro tip: On the first Thursday of the month, the museum closes at 10:00 PM if you want to visit later in the evening!

31 – Swim and relax at LAGO Gent Rozebroeken

Looking for a cooling activity to do in Ghent? Check out LAGO Gent Rozebroeken , offering a refreshing “subtropical swimming paradise” ambiance at their indoor pools, perfect for escaping the heat and relaxing in the water for a bit!

Though the pools are mostly indoors, there are a few outdoor options, as well as areas designated to families and young ones, as well as adults for the perfect mix of fun for all.

For those looking to detoxify their body after so much rich chocolate and fries (we don’t blame you!) saunas in the Wellness section are available for a moment of tranquility and silence after being surrounded by people almost daily as you visit the sites!

Located only 25 minutes from the heart of the city, you can make your way to LAGOS Gent Rozebroeken even by public transportation if you’d like.

32 – Become a cooking pro at a cooking class

Take up a fun hands-on activity and sign up for a cooking class while in Ghent! Enjoy cooking alongside a local in their home, as you shop for the ingredients at the local market, and then start the lesson in Ghent cuisine.

Cook regional dishes including Stoverij (stewed beef that any beer lover will appreciate) or witloof (Belgian endives with cheese and ham) during your experience, while learning about the specific flavors and ingredients most commonly used.

In this culinary experience, you’ll also be able to enjoy your meal at the end with your cooking instructor for the perfect cherry on top!

Speaking of sweet endings, you’ll also be creating your a dessert using a family recipe, and seasonal ingredients.

The cooking experiences last around 4 hours, and are offered in English, French, and Dutch. The experience starts at $90 USD per person.

• cooking classes in Ghent

33 – Walk the beautiful trails at the Bourgoyen-Ossemeersen nature reserve

Embark on a moment of total tranquility at the Bourgoyen-Ossemeersen nature reserve.

Located 14 minutes north of Old Town, the nature reserve is famous for its bird migrations, marshy landscapes, and winding paths used by locals to appreciate the abundant nature on foot.

Locals recommend bringing binoculars to truly appreciate the immense diversity of birds that visit the park, including Canadian Geese, Black-tailed godwits, and Eurasian sparrowhawks, as well as to pausing your walk to appreciate other local wildlife like weasels and rabbits. The park is over 220 hectares, and the trails are handicap accessible.

Check out a map that you can grab at the Jan Hublé visitors center, and map out the three main paths used for walking and running, that are not too challenging or too long.

The park offers free guides to make the most of your experience.

34 – Take a tour of the opulent Ooidonk Castle

Currently the home of the 6th Count and Countess t’Kint de Roodenbeke and their three children, the Ooidonk Castle is considered to be one of the most beautiful and prestigious castles in all of Belgium.

Donning beautiful Hispanic-Flemish architecture, the castle was built in 1381 and then rebuilt in 1959. Flooded with history, beautiful landscapes, a river, peaceful gardens, and ornate interiors with prestigious artworks, the Ooidonk Castle is truly one of Ghent’s most precious gems.

Make the trip to this quaint slice of heaven, only 32 minutes away from Old Town Ghent. As the castle is the current resident of the Count and Countess, the only way to visit is via a guided tour, offered between April 1st and November 1st.

The guided tours can be reserved by mail or by phone, so be sure to check the website to organize your experience.

35 – Take in the booming textile industry at the Museum of Industry Ghent

Learn all about one of the major and historical industries of Ghent, textiles, and see what exactly catapulted the textile industry in Ghent to be as big as it came to be, and who worked the factories.

Housed inside an old cotton mill, the museum has incredible views of the city, which with the use of technology, offers the opportunity to view what the city looked like during the Industrial Revolution.

Stop by the most important exhibit at the museum, “About People and Machines” to start your industry learning journey, where you’ll learn fascinating facts like how Ghent was the second city after the UK on the continent to have an industrial revolution.

With examples, you’ll see some of the earliest pieces of machinery that jump-started the textile industry.

The museum is a must-stop on your Ghent itinerary, so book tickets online soon!

36 – Hit the circuits at eKart

Fulfill your need for speed while in Ghent, and visit eKart for some thrilling (and friendly) competition with your friends!

Race around the state-of-the-art indoor race tracks with unique circuits in place, involving 14 turns and a unique design track for the ultimate thrills.

What sets apart eKart from other go karting spaces, is that eKart provides the fun of go karting without the strong odors of motors and extremely loud noises, and instead, has utilized the most recent go karting advancements to make the experience a more modern and pleasant one!

Upkeeping with the most recent safety precautions, the karts are also incredibly modern, and created with smart technology to provide a smooth (and safe) driving experience, easy enough for newbies to get the hang of almost immediately.

eKart is located only 14 minutes away from the Ghent city center.

37 – Put your smarts to the test at an escape room

Beat the timer as you solve riddles and answer questions to unlock new levels inside an exhilarating escape room!

Get your friends together, whether you traveled with them or just made them on this trip, and choose between doing an indoor escape room or opt for the outdoor “Urban Escape”.

To play the Urban Escape games, all you need is one smartphone to get the game going, as you essentially make the city your playground!

When you book an Urban Escape, you’ll confirm with your activity provider when and what time you’d like to start your game, and then off you go!

If you want an excuse to leave Ghent for a bit, check out the Urban Escapes that take place in Mons, a city 1-hour away from Ghent.

• escape rooms in Ghent

38 – See a unique organ and important art inside St James’ Church

St. James’ Church is a recognizable church in Ghent, mostly for its many cultural events that it hosts, as well as for being a place where people have gathered for centuries, whether it’s to attend mass or simply convene. The church was constructed in the early 10th century and was the first in the country to be dedicated to St. James.

An interesting note about the church is its connection to Santiago de Compostela and the pilgrimage that goes by the same name in Spain. An engraved scallop shell is carved at the entrance of the church, symbolizing the apostle Saint James who rests in Santiago de Compostela.

Other than housing a number of important paintings inside, as well as a one-of-a-kind Van Peteghem organ, the inventor of the forceps, Jan Palfijn, a Flemish surgeon, is buried inside the church.

If you visit the church and square in mid-July, you’ll find a different and lively scene of food, drinks, and musicians celebrating the beginning of summer called the Ghent Festivities.

39 – Gaze at the collection of international designs at the Design Museum Gent

Art lovers and design aficionados, make your way to Design Museum Gent to witness beautiful examples of Belgian designs and artful arrangements in a modern and beautiful way.

Located in the heart of Old Town, the museum is currently undergoing renovations, however, look out for the pop-ups scattered throughout town that will surely make you excited for when they reopen their doors in the coming years.

In the new exhibitions, you can look forward to viewing over 200 square meters of design collections, small-scale arrangements, and more.

Keeping up with the times, the temporary exhibitions are stunning spaces that encourage the public to learn artfully about current events, often highlighting other perspectives that go unseen in the news, in beautifully creative ways.

One of the places hosting the museum’s pop-ups is Hotel de Coninck, a 5-minute walk from Old Town.

40 – Practice your strike on a bowling trip

Check out the best bowling places in Ghent, starting with Overpoort Bowl where you can reserve your spot in the next bowling slot with your travel group online, easily. After playing a few rounds, don’t go home yet, instead, stick around to play pool, darts, and foosball!

O’Leary | Sportsbar & Bowling is a great place that combines both social opportunities and bowling, especially for those traveling solo who want to find ways to interact with the locals! Stick around, check out the game on the TV, and cheer on the team with your fellow bowling mates!

Lastly, Bowlingpaleis Lochristi is a great place to have fun with some bowling, as well as playing other games with the locals like darts, pool, and eating some fondue! Perfect for families, this place has bowling activities for kids and parents, so each can enjoy some fun!

41 – Jam out at Gentse Feesten

Are you visiting Ghent in July? Make sure to carve out some time in your itinerary to visit Gentse Feesten , a famous music festival that also includes street artists such as mimes and buskers and more!

With over 50 years of trajectory and entertaining over 1-1.5 million attendees throughout the years, Gentse Feesten has become a popular experience to enjoy, especially the music lovers and those wanting to enjoy a cultural experience.

Multiple genres are represented at the festival, from rock, pop, 80s music, rap, and so much more.

Something to note is that this festival is not held at one specific place, but rather has multiple locations throughout the city.

To check the upcoming performers and where their stages will take place, check and monitor the festival’s official website for updates as soon as the dates start to approach.

42 – Drink at the best best bars in Ghent

Even if you are a staunch beer drinker, you should take the opportunity to savor the best of Dutch Gins (Jenever) at ‘t Dreupeklot, known for its handcrafted cocktails and more than 200 different types of Dutch Gin with flavors like cactus and coconut.

Order one of the carefully crafted coolers and cocktails created by skilled mixologists at Jigger’s . Offering seasonal drinks created with only the best and in-season ingredients, each drink at Jigger’s is carefully crafted to tell a story through its flavors.

How does grabbing drinks while browsing books sound to you? Visit Le Bal Infernal and browse tall shelves full of books as you sip on your favorite drink. If books aren’t your thing, check out the calendar brimming with tons of activities that you’ll surely not want to miss!

Hit up the “aperobar” André , for a delightful Belgian-style tapas and crisp cocktail in the foodie heaven Patershol neighborhood.

43 – Taste the best of Ghent cuisine at the best restaurants

Fancy a fine meal that won’t break the bank? Check out Roots , located in the Vrouwebroersstraat neighborhood offering an ever-changing farm-to-plate style dining, inside a historic building.

For an authentic Belgian dish, check out Meme Gusta , a chef-lead restaurant where the food inspiration comes from family recipes and traditions. The lively ambiance of the restaurants immediately gives a sense of comfort, while the dishes serve up true passion for Belgian cuisine. Try the star dish, the Meme Gusta Stew with vegetables and pork cheek.

Head to In Choc Gent , a chocoholics’ dream dessert and coffee cafe offering an incredible list of sweets, chocolate drinks, and eccentric smoothies you just have to try! Drop in for breakfast and lunch, and finalize your dining experience with a chocolate waffle, since no trip to Belgium is complete without it!

44 – Feel like a million bucks at the Hotel 1898 The Post

Settled above Ghent’s historic post office, Hotel 1898 The Post is a boutique hotel in Ghent that offers a mix of historic, modern, and chic, unlike anywhere else in the city.

Whether you book a room or visit for happy hour on the rooftop terrace with grand views of Ghent, the opportunity to visit this opulent hotel will be one of the most luxurious experiences you’ll have in Ghent.

Don’t fancy an alcoholic drink? Make reservations to pop in for afternoon tea in the stellar dining room, as the soft music and views set the mood. Afternoon tea is available Friday-Sunday between 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM.

Located along the scenic Leie River, and a few moments away from Old Town, Hotel 1898 The Post has undoubtedly some of the most highly coveted city views than any other hotel.

How to get to Ghent?

Ghent doesn’t have its own airport, therefore consider arranging to land at Brussels Airport or Brussels South Charleroi Airport.

To bridge the distance, consider booking an airport transfer , conveniently awaiting you at the airport to drive you to your hotel in less than an hour. Alternatively, you can take a train from Brussels or opt for a bus trip to Ghent via a Ghent tours from Brussels .

Where to stay in Ghent?

Soak up the historic beauty and charm of the family-run Hotel Harmony , conveniently located in the center of Ghent’s Old Town. The boutique hotel is only a short 10-minute walk from Saint Bavo’s Cathedral and Gravensteen Castle.

Wake up every day inside the bright and airy rooms at Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Reylof Ghent . Enjoy freshly made Nespresso coffee as you take a look at the views of the historic center or the charming gardens and courtyard.

Relax after a day of sightseeing on the terrace at Yalo Urban Boutique Hotel Ghent , located in the heart of Old Town. Enjoy a hearty American-style breakfast served every day before heading out on the day’s adventures, including renting a bike right from the hotel!

Check out B&B Hotel Ghent Centrum , which offers a continental and buffet-style breakfast every morning. Enjoy picture-perfect views of the historic city center of Ghent from your room, and the terrace.

• best hotels in Ghent

Visiting Ghent on budget?

Stretch your travel budget and book a spot on the next free walking tour in Ghent ! Free Ghent walking tours are an amazing and comprehensive way to get to know a city, especially toward the beginning of your stay.

Learn about all the must-see sights from a local and orient yourself for the rest of your stay! All for free!

Where to go next?

Get up to all the fun things to do in Brussels ! From admiring the impressive architecture at the Grand Palace to stumbling across the quirky statues scattered throughout the town.

Check out all the things to do in Antwerp , including the fascinating history of Belgians who left for a new life in the U.S. at Red Star Line Museum, to the 13th century Het Steen Castle.

Climb up the equally gorgeous Belfry of Bruges to get breathtaking views of the city, and see what’s up at Burg Square – it’s definitely one of the best things to do in Bruges .

From the Cubed Houses to the bird’s eye views from the top of the iconic Euromast tower, check out all the amazing things to do in Rotterdam ! Eat your heart out at the modern Markthal, and visit the windmills at Kinderdijk.

Visit the Anne Frank House and more cool things to do in Amsterdam ! Ride through the iconic canals and visit the unforgettable Van Gogh Museum.

Final thoughts

Ghent is a metropolis often shadowed by other cities, but we hope that our list of the best things to do in Ghent got you interested in the unique and must-try things to experience in the “city of all times”.

From the colorful Grafitti Street to a sweet bite of cuberdon – what’s first on your list? Feel free to share!

Happy travels!

Kirstie Will Travel

Making Everywhere You Go An Adventure

Ghent · June 24, 2021

10+ Unique and Free Things to Do in Ghent

You might be surprised to hear that after two trips to the city, I still haven’t visited Ghent’s most popular attractions, like Gravensteen Castle or the Ghent Belfry. The truth is, Ghent is so full of hidden gems that on both trips I’ve found so many other things to fill my itinerary with. This city has so many stories that can be found in the humble streets, the bustling squares, and the quiet green spaces. Whether it’s a history spanning from colonialism to the Hundred Years’ War, or unique art spaces paving the future of Ghent, there is something for everyone to discover and enjoy in this city. Even Ghent or Belgian locals might find something in this list that they haven’t seen before!

The bonus for budget travel lovers is that this list is entirely composed of free things to do in Ghent. You can easily spend a long weekend in Ghent, only paying for your accommodation and food, and still enjoy a culturally rich and interesting trip. Even if your budget can stretch a little further, these activities are still generally some of the best things to do in Ghent so you can add a few to your itinerary.

This post may contain affiliate links meaning I may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.   Read more in my  disclaimer .

De Krook Library

Ghent hosts a beautiful public library near the centre of the city. Opened in 2017, it was a really exciting development for the city as it breathed some life back into a previously run-down area of Ghent. The modern architecture really stands out and it’s a beautiful building to see, inside and out.

First and foremost De Krook is a library, but the building also houses several businesses focused on innovation and research. Ghent University also works with De Krook to bring lectures and other academic activities to the public. The library sits on a bend in the river Scheldt, and the waterfront is the perfect place to relax, especially in the evening, just before the sun goes down.

As mentioned before, the library is wonderful to see inside and out, so unless you’re a local looking to borrow some books, don’t feel like you have to explore the interior. For me, and this is almost always the case, impressive modern architecture buildings are most impressive from the outside, and I was perfectly happy just wandering around the exterior of De Krook. It’s definitely not to be missed, especially if you want to get a glance at the future of Ghent as it is being developed.

Relaxing at Graslei

One of the most charming things about Ghent is how laid back it always is. Head down to the river and join many locals catching up with friends and simply enjoying their day or evening. Bonus points if you take some Belgian beer along with you!

You could choose to sit by the water at the De Krook library (mentioned above), but the most popular spot is at Graslei, right in the centre of Ghent. The street is lined with bars and restaurants so you could opt to dine outside, or find yourself a nice spot on the cobbles and soak up the bustling atmosphere.

St Peter’s Abbey

In the south of Ghent’s city centre, you’ll find one of the most unique churches, in a city that’s full of them! St Peter’s Abbey (known as Sint-Pietersabdij in Dutch) has a rich history, dating back to the 7th century. The abbey had a large influence in the city of Ghent throughout the eleventh, twelfth and thirteenth centuries, but eventually fell into decline. Since then, St Peter’s Abbey has changed hands between the church and the city several times. Now, it belongs to the city and is used as a museum, although the church building is still functioning as just that, and is called Our Lady of Saint Peter’s.

The church is free to visit and has a beautiful interior. The ground floor of the Abbey, consisting of the hallways and courtyard, is also free.

Secret Garden

The best thing about St Peter’s Abbey is also one of the best hidden gems in Ghent. Behind the abbey is a beautiful hidden garden and vineyard. Popular with the city’s students to have a small picnic or read for the afternoon, the secret garden really transports you away from the hustle and bustle of city life. If you have good weather during your trip to Ghent, this spot is perfect to take a breath for a little while and soak up the sun. If you are less fortunate with the weather, you can still make a quick stop at the quaint little garden to see it.

The main grassy area of the garden is to the left when you walk in. There is a small area of abbey ruins and a privately owned vineyard to the right. Be careful around the ruins and don’t walk or sit on them.

You shouldn’t have much trouble finding the gardens of St Peter’s Abbey. Take the side street to the right of the abbey (there is an entrance to the left but it is a private vineyard entrance and is locked… I learned that the hard way!). Turn left and you’ll see a rising path with the entrance to the garden .

Read Next: How to Visit the Atomium in Brussels, Belgium

Zuivelbrugstraat Bridge

For one of the most beautiful and free things to do in Ghent, head to the bridge on Zuivelbrugstraat . It has everything you need for a perfect view – cute bridge railings, houses lining the river, boats sailing, and traditional terraced Flemish houses in the background. The bridge even has a small platform sticking out over the water which makes for the perfect photo spot!

If you’re willing to wake up early, I recommend heading to this spot at sunrise. You’ll have the city to yourself, and the light is just beautiful as the sun comes up. This is definitely one of the most unique things in Ghent for me.

Safety Note : Please exercise caution if you choose to step out onto the river platform. It is sturdy and safe, but nothing more than a wooden platform. There are no barriers and nothing to hold on to. Be aware of the risks and assess your ability to keep afloat should the worst happen.

Citadel Park Waterfall

If you travel to Ghent by train, Citadel Park will be the perfect first stop on your trip, as it’s on the way from the train station to the city centre. I recommend exploring the whole park and its wonderful green spaces, including the SMAK Contemporary Art museum (not free, but only €2 if you’re under 26!).

The most unique spot in Citadel Park is the beautiful waterfall rock formation in the very northeast of the park . You’ll see a small, peaceful pond that has a large rock formation on one side and a waterfall flowing over it. You can pass through the rock formation and under the waterfall. In Spring, cherry blossoms flower next to the waterfall, and overall it’s a very pretty, picturesque scene.

You can climb to the top of the stone structure (it’s not very high). There, you’ll find a statue called ‘t Moorken which depicts a young Congolese boy called Sakala. The statue also features a plaque with the faces of two men who were prominent in Belgium’s colonisation of the Congo and brought Sakala to Ghent to spend some time there. It sits as a stark reminder of Belgium and Ghent’s colonial past, especially given that the park was used during the 1913 World’s Fair in Ghent.

Saint Bavo’s Abbey

There isn’t much to discover across the water on the right side of the city, but it’s a venture nonetheless to discover Saint Bavo’s Abbey. Like Saint Peter’s Abbey, this dates back to the 7th century and, of course, it also has an interesting history. It has been raided by Vikings, chasing away the monks, used by emperor Otto II in conflict with Louis V of France, and eventually destroyed by Spanish King Charles V during his reign of Ghent and Flanders. He ordered a fortress to be built atop the ruins and the abbey ceased to exist, spare the cloisters and chapel.

On top of its fantastic and tragic history, what makes the Abbey one of the most unique things to do in Ghent, is the way it has been ‘restored’. Although very little of the Abbey remains, tall hedges mark out where the buildings used to lie, and you can walk around and imagine yourself there. You can also walk around the stone ruins.

It is possible to enter inside the Abbey ruins to further explore this incredible space, but only on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 2-6 pm. The limited hours are in place to preserve the fragile space as much as possible. However, admission is free so if you happen to visit at those hours and what to dive deeper into the history of Ghent, this is a great activity for you.

Discover some popular Ghent activities

Glass Alley and the Red Light District

Note: Adults Only!

You can imagine my shock when I found the beautiful Glass Alley, and then slowly discovered its purpose as I walked up and down posing for photos. Obsessed with covered passages and shopping arcades, I had seen a photo of this one in Ghent and knew I wanted to see it up close. Due to Covid restrictions, the arcade was completely empty so the true nature wasn’t clear, and it took me a while to notice.

In normal times, Glass Alley forms the centre of one of Ghent’s two red-light districts, and women sit in the windows, a tradition that we most closely attribute to Amsterdam. It’s always interesting to see this different part of a city. In Ghent, the red light district doesn’t feel seedy or dangerous and as far as I know, a little more on the modest side compared to other cities.

Whether you’re interested in the architecture of Glass Alley or the cultural side of the Red Light District, this is a really interesting area to visit in Ghent.

Discover more about Red Light District Culture with this Complete Guide to Visiting Amsterdam !

Gravensteen Castle Moat

Gravensteen Castle is not free to visit, but here’s a secret hack if you’re looking for free things to do in Ghent.

Being right in the centre of the city, Gravensteen Castle and its medieval architecture really stand out, and it’s one of the most popular attractions in Ghent! You can admire the exterior from the busy Rekelingestraat, and make sure to cross the bridge next to it to get a cool view of the castle with the river running alongside it. However, to experience something a bit more unique, follow these steps.

First, walk past the castle along Geldmunt. When you’re just past the castle, you’ll see a small alleyway to your left. Walk down and you’ll come to a grassy area where you’ll see more of the back of the castle and the river Leie.

It’s not much and it’s not as exciting as entering the castle and museum, which is one of the top things I would recommend actually paying for here, this hack is a great way to see a little more of the castle without spending any money.

Street Art at Graffiti Street

For a self-proclaimed street art lover, Ghent’s Graffiti Street is a dream. If you like the comic book murals found across Brussels , you’ll love this alleyway filled with the most colourful, creative graffiti that the city has to offer. It really encapsulates the young, hip vibes that Ghent gives off, and is the perfect place for a cool Instagram shot.

Graffiti Street is one of my favourite free things to do in Ghent because it’s like visiting a museum with no rules, and where the exhibitions are constantly changing and making way for new art.

Vrijdagmarkt & Toreken

Many unique things to do in Ghent, and any city for that matter, are discovered by accident, and this is another fantastic example of that. Whilst out wandering the streets before Ghent properly woke up, I found myself in Vrijdagmarkt, a huge square that’s home to a market on Fridays and Saturdays, and beautiful façades and bustling atmosphere all week long! It’s definitely worth coming here during market times if possible, to experience Ghent city life and join in a piece of history at a market that has been around since the late 12th century.

The square has an interesting history and was traditional the site of many celebrations and executions. Most notably, many Flemish Counts were sworn into duty here during the middle ages. There is a large statue in the centre of Vrijdagmarkt of a man called Jacob Van Artevelde. He is considered a hero to the people of Ghent for saving the city’s wool and textile trade during the Hundred Years’ War, and his statue shows him pointing towards England, with whom he continued to trade, despite French resistance, in order to save the industry.

In the corner of the square is a beautiful clock tower, the Toreken. Keeping with the historic nature of this square, the tower and building date back to the 15th century, where it was used by tanners.

Koningin Maria Hendrikaplein

This last free activity in Ghent is definitely a novelty, and only worth visiting if you’re arriving or leaving from Gent-Sint-Pieters train station. Nevertheless, I enjoy seeing it every time I visit and it’s definitely unique.

Queen Maria Hendrika Square, named after the Belgian Queen, is a small square outside Ghent’s main train station. It’s plain and unassuming, except for the fact that it’s surrounded by hundreds upon hundreds of chained up bikes. It’s not known how so many bikes ended up here (other than the fact that cycling very popular here!) or which ones are abandoned and which are still used by commuters, but it’s certainly a fun thing to see when arriving for a day in Ghent.

Other Free Things to Do in Ghent

In this post, I’ve tried to stick to the most unique free things to do in Ghent, but many of the main attractions in the city don’t cost anything!

Ghent is full of different churches and cathedrals, and they are almost always free to enter. You can visit Saint Bavo’s Cathedral and Saint Nicholas’ Church right in the centre of the city. Make sure you also check out Ghent city hall.

And so concludes this amazing list of 10+ unique and free things to do in Ghent! I am positive that you’ve found at least one thing that has piqued your interest here, and I hope you enjoy discovering them if you visit Ghent in the future.

If you enjoyed this post on the best unique and free things to do in Ghent, you might enjoy some more of my Belgian content, like the Where to Get the Best Belgian Fries in Brussels , or How to Take a Magical Day Trip to Bruges . If you’re a budget travel lover, why not check out these 26 Completely Free Things to Do in Barcelona !

Have you ever been to Ghent? Let me know if you’ve been to any of these spots and, of course, share your own hidden gems with me!

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September 2, 2022 at 11:31 am

Very good article about Ghent! Loved it. Really enjoy free things to do in the city, so will try to use this next time we visit. Do you know if the christmas market is fully free too?

October 14, 2022 at 1:12 pm

Thank you! There are so many great things to do in Ghent for free so I’m happy to share. I haven’t been to the Christmas market in Ghent, but it’s rare to have an entrance fee for outdoor markets in Belgium and most of Europe. So it should be free to enter but of course you can expect to pay for activities and food. Hope that helps! 🙂

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One day in ghent: exploring the heart of flanders.

With its network of narrow canals, red-brick buildings and magnificent Gothic architecture, Ghent is one of Belgium’s glittering jewels. And as this is a small city, a day trip to Ghent (Gent in Flemish) will allow you to hit its highlights with ease.

But what are the best things to do during one day in Ghent?

This is where I can help you. I used this lovely city as a base to explore other places in Belgium and put together a Ghent 1-day itinerary to make sure that I didn’t miss the good stuff.

I’ve also included more things to do in Ghent if you are there for two or three days, plus advice on where to stay, how to get there and how to get around.

Some articles on this website contain affiliate links. This means that I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . Read the full disclosure here .

TOP 5 THINGS TO DO

• Gaze in wonder at The Adoration of Mystic Lamb
• Take in the view from St. Michael’s Bridge
• Climb Ghent’s Belfort
• Visit Gravensteen
• Join a Belgian beer tour with a local (find out more here )

HOW TO DO A GHENT DAY TRIP: Ghent is 30 minutes by train from Brussels or Bruges.

BEST WAY TO GET AROUND GHENT: On foot

CURRENCY: Euro. Cards are widely accepted.

LANGUAGE SPOKEN: Most locals speak Flemish, which is similar to Dutch. Many people speak English.

IN THIS ARTICLE

Is A Day Enough for Ghent?

You can cover most of Ghent’s main attractions in one day. However, I recommend allowing two days to do this in a more relaxed way.   I used Ghent as one of my bases for spending a week in Belgium . From here, I took a day trip to lovely Leuven and ate my way through the best chocolate shops in Bruges . 

My Suggested 1-Day Ghent Itinerary

It is easy to hit the highlights of Ghent in one day on a self-guided walking tour . As Its main attractions are spread over a small area, Ghent is a very walkable city.

From the starting point at St. Bavo’s Cathedral to the endpoint at Graffiti Street, the total distance is less than two miles . I suggest that you break off at the halfway mark for a relaxing boat cruise.

Here is a map to help you on your way. For an interactive map with walking directions, simply click here or on the image itself.

But if you prefer someone else to take care of the arrangements for you or you want to benefit from local knowledge, join an organised walking tour . This is also one of the best ways to meet people as a solo traveller .

>>> CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR GHENT WALKING TOUR. IF YOU PREFER A PRIVATE WALKING TOUR, CHECK THE PRICE & AVAILABILITY HERE .

ST. BAVO’S CATHEDRAL & THE MYSTIC LAMB

Our day in Ghent begins with one of the world’s artistic masterpieces, Jan van Eyck’s Adoration of the Mystic Lamb .

Housed in the Gothic St. Bavo’s Cathedral (Sint-Baafskathedraal), the so-called Ghent altarpiece has survived wars, fire and theft. It has been restored to its former luminous glory and is sited in the cathedral’s Villa Chapel.

St. Bavo’s Cathedral is also home to a typically energetic Rubens painting ( St Baaf entering the Abbey of Ghent ) and a massive marble and oak Rococo pulpit , representing the Tree of Life.

GERALD THE DEVIL

After you exit St. Bavo’s Cathedral, take a short detour to take a look at Gerald the Devil.

Don’t be fooled by the name. A devil has never lived in this sombre 13th-century fortress. 

Staring life as a knights’ residence, it has been used as an arsenal, a monastery, a school, a bishop’s seminary, a 17th-century institution for the mentally ill and a home for male orphans.

BELFORT OF GHENT

Across from the cathedral, on the west side of the main square, is the UNESCO-listed Belfort of Ghent (Ghent’s Belfry).

Built from blue-grey limestone ferried from Tournai, work started on this tower in 1313. The building was tinkered with many times over the centuries and its current dragon-topped spire dates from the 20 th Century.

Take the elevator to the roof of the belfry for windy views over the city centre. The entrance is on the south side of the adjoining Lakenhalle, Ghent’s historic Cloth Hall .

GHENT CITY HALL

Ghent’s striking City Hall or Stadhuis is a building of two halves.

The later section, dating from the 1580s, is pure Italian Renaissance with its perfect symmetry and majestic columns and pilasters. But turn the corner, and the flamboyant façade is pure Gothic. This style was intended for the entire building until the collapse of the wool trade killed the finances.

ST NICHOLAS’S CHURCH (SINT-NIKLAASKERK)

St. Nicholas’s Church (Sint-Niklaaskerk) is a few minutes walk from Ghent’s City Hall. This Gothic church was built from blue-grey Tournai stone and was completed in the 13 th Century.

Step inside to take a look at the Baroque high altar and its representation of the Last Judgement.

ST. MICHAEL’S BRIDGE

No day in Ghent is complete without stopping to admire the view from St. Michael’s Bridge (Sint-Michielsbrug). This landmark was built in 1913 to offer visitors to the Great Exhibition the best vantage point to view the city’s skyline.

To the south, there is the handsome Gothic Sint-Michielskirk . In the opposite direction is Tussen Bruggen , Ghent’s oldest harbour and its iconic quays, the Graslei and the Korenlei.

THE GRASLEI

Back in medieval times, Ghent’s boatmen and grain weighers were essential to the fortunes of the city. A lasting legacy is the row of gorgeous guildhouses that line the Graslei, the gable of each decorated with a symbol indicating its function.

THE KORENLEI 

On the opposite side of the harbour, the Korenlei is home to an ensemble of 18 th Century merchants’ houses built in the Neoclassical style. Take a look at the Guildhouse of the Unfree Boatmen at number 7 which has a façade that features exaggerated dolphins and lions.

GHENT BOAT TOUR

Now it’s time to rest those feet. You deserve it.

Boats depart the Graslei and the Korenlei for a 50-minute trip along Ghent’s canals. This is an excellent way to learn more about the city.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR GHENT BOAT TOUR

JAN BREYDELSTRAAT

We are now going to make our way towards Ghent’s castle via Jan Breydelstraat. This is one of the city’s prettiest streets and is lined with inviting shops and restaurants.

HET GRAVENSTEEN

The hulking and forbidding walls and turrets of Het Gravensteen, or the castle of the counts in Flanders, look like they have been lifted straight from a child’s storybook. It was first built in 1180 to intimidate and protect Ghent’s unruly citizens in equal measure.

A kitsch (and overlong) self-guided tour takes you through its main buildings, passing medieval military hardware and instruments of torture along the way. From the castle’s wall, there are lovely views over Ghent’s city centre.

Northeast of Het Gravensteen is the Patershol, a picturesque labyrinth of brick terraced houses, dating from the 17 th Century. This was once the heart of the city and is a good spot to grab a bite to eat.

VRIJDAGMARKT

For centuries, the Vrijdagmarkt was the political heart of Ghent and the site of public meetings and executions. The imposing statue in the middle of the square is that of the guild leader Jacob van Artevelde.

GRAFFITI STREET (WERREGARENSTRAAT)

From the artwork in Brick Lane in my home town of London to checking out the MUAS Initiative in Málaga , I try to seek out street art wherever I am. Visiting Ghent was no exception.

Street artists are let loose with their spray cans on Werregarenstraat, otherwise known as Graffiti Street. It’s worth taking a detour to this narrow alleyway to look at works by artists such as Roa and Bué the Warrior.

JOIN A BEER TOUR WITH A LOCAL

If you are staying overnight in Ghent, you must join this excellent beer tour with a local guide.

Beer is one of the things for which Belgium is famous and prior to World War II, there were over 100 breweries in Ghent. Today’s brewers have rediscovered Ghent and both microbreweries and larger breweries are booming.

Liselot, our super-enthusiastic and knowledgeable guide, introduced us to five types of Belgian beer in three bars. At the end of the tour, she provided personalised recommendations for beer that is widely available in Belgium.

In case you’re wondering, I should go for Gulden Draak Quadruple, a mere 10.7% ABV. Cheers.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR TOUR

Other Places to Visit in Ghent, Belgium

But perhaps you are spending two days in Ghent (or longer) and want to squeeze in more sights. Here is my pick of the best of the rest.

ST. PETER’S ABBEY

St. Peter’s was a Benedictine abbey founded in the 7th Century by St Amand. It thrived during the 14th and 15th Centuries, growing into a sort of abbey village with farms, gardens, homes and estates.

Its garden is gorgeous and has a fine courtyard and vineyard. But the highlight for me was clambering up to the organ for a view over the fabulous Renaissance Our Lady of St. Peter’s Church.

HOUSE OF ALIJN (ALIJN HUIS)

This folklore museum is housed in a former children’s hospital, St Catherine’s Hospital, the only conserved almshouse in Ghent.

The almshouse was founded in 1363 to resolve a long-running blood feud between two of the city’s patrician families: the Rijms and the Alijns. Think of them as the Flemish version of the Montagues and Capulets in Romeo & Juliet .

The museum’s rooms depict life and work in 19th and 20 th Century Ghent with reconstructions of living spaces and shops.

FINE ARTS MUSEUM (MSK)

Ghent’s Fine Art Museum displays over 600 pieces from its collection of about 9,000 works, spanning the Middle Ages to the first half of the 20th century. These works are arranged thematically, starting with Religion and ending with Progressives vs Conservative (I liked room 16: Travelling around the World).

If contemporary art is more your thing, head across the road to the Stedelijk Museum voor Actuele Kunst, or the S.M.A.K. for short. It’s not my cup of tea but its collection is considered to be the most important of its kind in Flanders.

The Ghent City Card Can Save You Money

Like many cities, Ghent has a tourist pass – CityCard Gent – that offers free or discounted admission to its main attractions from €38. It also includes a boat tour and bicycle rental for one day. But is the Ghent City card good value ?   I’m not usually a massive fan of these city cards but, for me, it was a travel bargain. Like any of these city cards, you will need to do the maths to work out if it is the right choice for you.   You can pick one up at the city’s tourist information centre or at participating attractions.

READ THIS NEXT : Is the Ghent City Card Worth It?

How to Get to Ghent from Brussels or Bruges

Ghent is located at the midpoint of the train line between Brussels and Bruges. From either city, it’s a 30-minute journey.

Trains are frequent and not expensive.

The only downside is that Ghent St. Peter’s Station is a 30-minute walk from the historic city centre. However, if you are feeling weary or want to save time, tram line 1 runs from the station to the city centre every ten minutes.

Thanks to Eurostar, you could even take a day trip to Ghent from London . You will need to change trains at Brussels Midi / Brussels Sud.

For example; if you caught the first Eurostar train from London St. Pancras International at just after 8 am, you would be ready to start your day in Ghent at midday. The last train for London departs Brussels just before 9 pm.

Where I Stayed in Ghent

If you are staying overnight in Ghent , base yourself in its historic centre to be close to the attractions included in this one-day itinerary.

Here are my top choices:

Snooz Ap Holiday & Business Flats

I stayed at this superb apartment in the heart of the historic city centre, which is a great self-catering choice in Ghent. The washing machine, Nespresso machine and roof terrace were welcome bonuses.

>>> CLICK HERE TO CHECK RATES

Here are some other choices of accommodation that may suit other tastes and budgets:

B&B Inn Between

If you are looking for a first-rate accommodation choice that is closer to the train station, this could be it. This 4-star B&B has gardened fabulous reviews.

>>> CLICK HERE TO TO CHECK RATES

B&B The Verhaegen

Push the boat out and stay at this guesthouse housed in a historic building in the heart of the city. There is also a peaceful garden in which to relax after a hard day’s sightseeing.

READ THIS NEXT: Where to Stay in Ghent, Belgium: The Best Areas for All Travellers

Visiting Bruges and Ghent in One Day

As Bruges and Ghent are only 30 minutes apart by train, it is possible to visit them both in one day.   These two cities are very walkable. Whilst there are similarities between Bruges and Ghent cities, they each have something unique to offer.   However, visiting both of these cities in a day will be a rushed experience. Furthermore, you will need to be highly selective in what you see and very organised to make the best of your day.      My advice is to spend a day in both cities if possible. If that’s not an option, then pick a city.   But life isn’t always perfect. If you are short on time, I recommend joining an organised day tour to make the most of your precious day.   This day trip to Ghent and Bruges from Brussels is affordable and has excellent reviews.

Is Ghent Safe for Solo Travellers?

Belgium is an easy country for solo travellers, even if you are travelling alone for the first time . It has an excellent infrastructure, relatively affordable accommodation, a rich history and buzzing nightlife in the main cities.   Keeping safe is a key concern of female solo travellers . Ghent is a friendly city with locals, students and tourists enjoying its attractions, bars and restaurants. Even after dark on weekdays, I felt safe.   That said, a little bit of common sense goes a long way. Watch out for pickpockets, especially in popular tourist areas and transport hubs. Remain vigilant and keep your belongings close to you. If you have a safe at your accommodation, use it to store valuables. 

Why I Loved Ghent

Whilst Ghent is not as well-known as either Brussels or Bruges, ignore it at your peril.   It attracts a fraction of the visitors descending on these two cities which has to be a good thing. If you ever visited Bruges on a weekend day in summer, you will know what I mean.     It has history and culture in spades, friendly locals, glorious architecture and meandering canals. And if that’s not enough, Ghent also has a lively restaurant and bar scene and is home to a growing number of breweries.    I hope that you have a wonderful day in Ghent. If you’ve enjoyed this guide, take a look at my other Belgium articles to help you plan your trip:

• A Perfect 1-Week Belgium Itinerary by Train
• 11 Awesome Reasons to Visit Mechelen, Belgium
• One Day in Leuven, Belgium: Top 10 Things to Do
• 10 Reasons to Visit Hasselt: Belgium’s Hidden Gem
• One Day in Brussels: Itinerary and Best Things to Do
• How to Find the Best Chocolate in Bruges, Belgium 

About Bridget

Bridget Coleman has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.

Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.

To get in touch, email her at [email protected] or follow her on social media.

A Ghent Itinerary with everything you need to know (including all the best things to do in Ghent)

During a recent trip to Brussels , we decided to take a little break from the capital, and head to the cobbled streets of Ghent. We booked the trip on a whim, after wanting to experience a bit more of Belgium then just the capital. Considering it is only 30 minutes away by train we figured it would be good to spend 1 or 2 days in Ghent. So here is our Ghent itinerary with the best things to do in Ghent to help you plan your own trip to this magical city.

Disclaimer:  This post contains affiliate links, so if you use these links to buy something we may earn a commission, at no cost to you. Thank you for your support.

Ghent itinerary – Factsheet

Before we look at things to do in ghent – how do i get there, 1 or 2 days in ghent, do a boat tour, ghent belfry, castle of the counts, st bavo’s cathedral, st michael’s bridge, castle of gerald the devil, graffiti street, things to do in ghent -1 day ghent itinerary, things to do in ghent -2 day ghent itinerary, where to stay as part of your ghent itinerary, things to do in ghent – getting around, eating and drinking as part of your ghent itinerary, romantic things to do in ghent, how much money do i need for my ghent itinerary, best time of year to plan a ghent itinerary, tips for visiting ghent.

Country : Belgium

Language : Dutch (flemish), French, German, and English is also widely spoken

Currency : Euros

Famous for : Beautiful canals and medieval history

Ghent is actually the second largest city in Belgium, with a population of under 250,000. It’s a popular university city, so you may encounter many students during your 2 days in Ghent.

So first things first, before you plan your Ghent itinerary, you are probably wondering how to get to Ghent. Luckily, Ghent is really easy to get to. If you are in Brussels the quickest way to Ghent is by train from Brussels Centraal or Brussels Midi you can jump on a train and arrive in Ghent in about 30 minutes. Trains costs around 10 Euros and trains leave every 15 minutes. Tickets can be purchased using the various machines dotted around the station, and yes they do have an English Language option.

You will arrive into Gent-Sint-Pieters Station, and to get into the main tourist part of the city, you will need to hop on a tram for around 12 minutes. Tram tickets can be purchased from the machines at the tram stops or the easiest thing to do is to download the De Lijn app and use this to purchase your tickets.

Is 1 day in Ghent enough, or do you need 2 days in Ghent? Or more? These are some of the questions that we asked before we visited. Ghent isn’t a huge city, and the tourist attractions are very close together, but there is a lot to discover.

1 day in Ghent

After visiting I would say that 1 day in Ghent is great if you want to explore the city, sip some beers, and not much else. You will get to see the main attractions but it won’t give you time to visit them all in depth. So pick out some key things you want to see, and plan accordingly.

2 days in Ghent

2 days in Ghent gives you a good chunk of time to explore a bit more, and allows you to see a few more tourist attractions. It also allows for ample time to drink Belgian beer by the water.

More than 2 days in Ghent

If you really want to delve in and explore Ghent then 3 days is probably a good amount of time to do so. You can wander the back streets, indulge in beers, frites, and waffles, while still having time to visit the key attractions in the city.

We ended up spending 2 days in Ghent though, and for us this was a good amount of time.

Things to do in Ghent

There are quite a few attractions is Ghent, but don’t worry if you don’t get time to visit them all. Part of the beauty of being in Ghent is strolling around the streets, taking in the architecture, and stopping off for Belgian beers. That being said, here are our top things to do in Ghent to inspire you to plan your own trip to this beautiful city.

Whether you are spending 1 day in Ghent or more, a boat tour is an absolute must. It is such a beautiful city and seeing it from the water is really special. Tour times vary, but for around 10 Euros (depending on the tour operator and whether you book in advance), you can hop on an open top boat and glide through medieval Ghent.

The tour guide gives you some interesting facts regarding the history of Ghent, and you get to see a lot of the main attractions from the water. If it is raining, umbrellas are provided, as well as blankets in the winter months. It is a really good way to see Ghent and we highly recommend it. You can book tickets online in advance , or alternatively you can book a tour on the day. We got our boat from just across from the Castle of the Counts.

One of our favourite things to see in Ghent has to be the Belfry. It is one of three medieval towers that make up the Ghent skyline, and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The tower is 91 meters tall, and once you reach the viewing platform you do get a pretty spectacular view of Ghent.

To get to the viewing platform you climb a few stairs, but the good news is there is a lift that takes you most of the way. It is quite narrow at the top so keep that in ind especially if you have a fear of heights.

The Castle of the Counts or Gravensteen as it is known in Dutch, is a medieval castle dating back to 1180. Until 1353 it was home to the Count of Flanders, and since then has been used as a court, a prison, a mint, and a cotton factory. These day it serves its purpose as a humble museum, open to tourists.

The castle is open between 10am and 6pm, and costs €12.00 for an adult ticket. It is almost worth the cost just to listen to the audioguide which is the funniest audioguide we’ve ever heard. Which is probably a weird thing to say considering the castle houses a lot of torture equipment.

This 89m gothic style cathedral, is the oldest parish in Ghent. The Catholic cathedral is not only remarkable from the outside but the inside too is worth a look in. One of the most significant works inside is the altarpiece called the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb.

Visiting the cathedral is free, however if you want to view the altarpiece you will need to pay 4 Euros.

St Michael’s Bridge is a stone arch bridge over the Lys River in Ghent. The bridge was only constructed between 1905-1909, which compared to other parts of Ghent, isn’t that old. It is a beautiful photo spot from all angles, and well worth a walk across during your 1-2 days in Ghent.

Because of the name you might be excused for thinking that the devil ever resided here. Although judging by the history and somewhat bleak appearance of this 13th century fortress it might not be too far off.

Throughout its history it has been used as a knights’ residence, an arsenal, a monastery, a school and a bishop’s seminary. The bleaker bits though were in 1623 when it became a madhouse for the mentally ill. As well as being used as a prison.

So this one is more of a hidden gem in Ghent. We stumbled upon it completely by accident, whilst walking between bars. What we really liked about it was the fact that it is so different to the rest of Ghent. One minute you are admiring the gothic architecture and the next you are walking down a street dedicated completely to graffiti. It is a reminder that there is more to Ghent than just castles and churches. It is also a great place for selfies.

Here is our recommended itinerary if you only have 1 day in Ghent.

The first thing that we recommend doing after you arrive in Ghent is to do a boat tour . This allows you to see the lay of the land, and learn about the city’s history. Afterwards we recommend sitting at one of the riverside bars for some afternoon drinks before enjoying some frites for lunch.

Spend the remainder of the afternoon visiting the Belfry and the St Bavo’s . It is also worth taking a walk to the Castle of Gerald the Devil and explore the surrounding area before making your way to St Michael’s bridge for golden hour.

The nightlife scene is incredible in Ghent so grab some dinner in Patershol , and make sure you visit some of the local bars to sample that incredible Belgian beer.

If you are fortunate enough to have 2 days in Ghent, then here is our recommended itinerary for your second day.

In the morning nurse your hangover (those Belgian beers can be intense) with some brunch, before a visit to the Castle of the Counts . Make some time for frites and waffles in the afternoon, and then visit the Graffiti Street . Afterwards visit Vrijdagmarkt Square and have a look around the surrounding area.

In the evening make some time to sip some beers whilst sitting by the water and taking in the atmosphere.

If you are wondering where to stay when planning your Ghent itinerary we recommend staying in the historical centre in areas like Patershol. That way you are close to most of the attractions, as well as a number of bars and restaurants. We ended up staying at the Ghent River Hotel for around £100 for the night. It is a 4 star hotel with modern rooms located on the banks of the River Lys. For us it was really convenient because it was close to everything and we would definitely stay here again.

Good news, if you are wondering how to get around as part of your Ghent itinerary, then it is pretty straightforward. All the best things to see in Ghent mentioned in this guide are within walking distance of each other. And if you find yourself wanting to venture out further the city’s tram network is easy to navigate.

Food is a big part of any Ghent itinerary, and Belgians really know how to do comfort food well. Ghent almost has this distinct smell of waffles that permeates the air, and chowing down on some traditional Belgian waffles is a must.

Frites are another source of great comfort when it comes to food. You will find a lot of street vendors selling them, although we opted for a fancier sit down version from Frites Atelier .

Ok so admittedly we didn’t visit as many bars in Ghent as we would have liked to. That being said, there are some really cool bars to explore in Patershol, so take a walk around and enjoy. One place we did stop off at though was Waterhuis aan de Bierkant . Apparently it is a former brothel turned pub, and the selection of beers is really good. We ended up trying quite a few when we visited. Which is probably why we didn’t make it to many more bars afterwards. Seriously Belgian beers are strong! The pub itself can be a bit touristy, but the atmosphere is great as are the beers.

Another favourite was the Barazza cafe gent. It is hidden down a side street off the main shopping bit, but is worth a visit for its outdoor terrace with beautiful river views. It is only small though so you are probably better off visiting at lunch time instead of the evening when it can get really crowded.

If you want to take the stress of deciding where and what to eat out of your hands then we recommend booking on a guided food tour where you can sample local specialities whilst taking in the sights.

If you are lucky enough to be visiting with your significant other, then you might be wondering what the best romantic things to do in Ghent are. Honestly it feels like one big fairy tale from the cobbled streets and gorgeous canals. Even just walking between attractions feels super romantic. For those of you that are looking to impress though there is actually a tour you can do specifically for romance . You can learn all about Ghent, and the romantic stories behind it.

Ghent is actually a really affordable city, which isn’t surprising considering it is popular with students. Between us as part of our Ghent itinerary we spent well under 150 Euros a day for food, drinks (there were lots of those), souvenirs, and tourist attractions. You could also do things a whole lot cheaper by eating at cheaper restaurants so all in all it’s not a hugely expensive place.

We should mention that this price isn’t including accommodation, which we booked well in advance. Accommodation in the city varies in price but honestly it was pretty reasonable in the scheme of things. For a mid-range hotel expect to pay somewhere between €100 per night.

Ghent is one of those places that you can honestly visit whenever. And You will find things to do in Ghent at any time of year.

The summer months are your ideal time to visit, as the weather is mild, and pretty much perfect for strolling around the canals and sipping Belgian beers. August tends to be busy due to school holidays, although many of the students go home at this time of year.

Winter is a lot more atmospheric. One of the best things to do in Ghent in the winter months has to be visit the Christmas Markets. The magical medieval setting comes alive in December with mulled wine and other wintry treats. It does get incredibly busy at this time of the year, so keep that in mind as you will need to book your accommodation well in advance.

• If you are tossing up whether or not you should go to Ghent our biggest tip is to just do it. It is beautiful and you won’t regret it.
• Ghent is a city best seen at a relaxed pace, don’t try to do too much and just enjoy your surroundings.
• Most people in Ghent speak English so you shouldn’t have any issues in regards to language barriers.
• Book your accommodation in advance especially during the summer months.

Wanderlust and Life is a blog for those that love to travel.

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17 Things to do in Ghent – That People Actually Do!

The port city of Ghent is the capital of the East Flanders province and one of Belgium’s most populous university towns. In the Late Middle Ages, the city was one of the largest and richest in Europe.

The well-preserved medieval architecture, cultural events, easy accessibility and delicious culinary traditions make Ghent a fabulous tourist destination.

Firstly, one of the top travel tips is to pick up a Ghent CityCard . With a CityCard, you’ll be able to skip the lines and see all of the best Ghent attractions within 48 or 72 hours.

The three-day card is only €35 compared to the €30 two-day card, and both include free public transport. It’s rare in Western Europe that you receive such value for money, so take advantage of this incredible deal and get sightseeing!

Don’t leave out Ghent during your trip to Belgium, as there are many enchanting things to see that you won’t find in Brussels or Antwerp. Not sure what to do in Ghent? Here are 17 Ghent, Belgium points of interest that will capture your attention and keep you entertained throughout your trip.

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Table of Contents

Ghent City Hall

The town hall of Ghent is known locally as Stadhuis. The ornate building is on the corner of Hoogpoort and Botermarkt and is unique in its contrasting architecture.

The building was originally constructed in a Late Gothic style, yet finished in a more Renaissance style on the other side.

You may even spot people getting married here, marked by rice and rose petals along the ground. In addition to the wedding chapel, there are vaulted wooden ceilings, stained glass windows and a labyrinth of corridors inside.

Tours are available with a guide if you’re eager to learn more details about the building’s history and architecture.

Gravensteen

One of the ultimate Ghent, Belgium tourist attractions is the Gravensteen Castle. The name translates to the Castle of the Counts, as it was the former residence to the Counts of Flanders.

The fortified structure is surrounded by a moat with water from the Lys River. Dating back to 1180, it has also served as a prison, a mint, and a cotton factory.

Inside the castle today is the Arms Museum and the Museum of Judicial Objects. On display are weapons from much darker medieval times, including crossbows, spearheads, shackles, iron collars, and even a guillotine.

A visit is certainly not for the faint of heart, as these instruments represent the horrific torture techniques used under the Ancien Régime.

During Christmas, however, Gravensteen becomes a much lighter and pleasant affair, turning into a Winter Wonder Castle. The grounds are decorated with ambient lighting and Christmas trees, and you can warm up with a drink by the bonfire.

Mystic Lamb

The Ghent Altarpiece, officially known as the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb, is a huge polyptych from the 15th century.

Its 12 panels took brothers Hubrecht and Jan van Eyck almost a decade to complete, and the piece is widely regarded as a treasure of European art and Catholic symbolism. The panels depict figures such as Adam and Eve, St John the Baptist, Virgin Mary, and St John the Evangelist.

The Mystic Lamb is considered the most stolen works of art of all time. In fact, one panel, The Just Judges, remains missing since 1934. See the altarpiece for yourself at the Saint Bavo Cathedral.

Ghent Belfry

The Belfry of Ghent (or Het Belfort van Gent) is one of the three medieval towers in the Ghent city centre and an iconic part of the city’s skyline. The 91-metre-tall bell tower was originally constructed in the 14th century, though its current stone spire was only added in the early 1900s.

Early on, the belfry was used as a fortified watchtower. The bells became a part of daily life in Ghent, used not only to announce the time but also to warn residents of any threats.

Today, its rotating drum from the 1700s plays four different songs each hour. Every two years, the city carillonneur changes the position of the drum’s pins to program new songs.

For €8, you can climb (or take a lift) to the top of this UNESCO World Heritage Site and see panoramic views over the city.

Saint Bavo Cathedral

As mentioned earlier, the Saint Bavo Cathedral is home to the coveted Mystic Lamb. Yet, this 89-metre-tall cathedral is worthy of visiting simply to appreciate its Gothic architecture. The cathedral is also known for its 6,000-pipe organ, the largest in the Benelux, which dates back the 18th century.

Construction began in 1274, though there were continuous expansions over the next 300 years. As the city’s oldest parish church, there’s a lot of rich history to be uncovered. The interiors feature star-shaped vaults, black and red flamed marble naves, and a Roman crypt decorated with frescoes.

Museum of Fine Arts

The Museum voor Schone Kunsten has some of the best collections of fine art in Ghent. Its large permanent collection showcases work from the Middle Ages until the 20th century. While the exhibits focus on Flemish artwork, there are many large sculptures and French paintings as well.

Stop by and see works like Portrait of a Kleptomaniac by Théodore Géricault, Landscape at Dusk in Tyrol by Heinrich Funk, and Christ Carrying the Cross by Hieronymus Bosch. The museum is to the east of Citadel Park, and entry is included with the Ghent CityCard.

Korenmarkt is the historic city square in Ghent, Belgium. The name translates directly to Wheat Market, as the square was the centre for cereal trade during the 10th and 11th centuries.

The square connects the busiest shopping avenues in the city, Kortemunt and Veldstraat, and is opposite Saint Michael’s Bridge. It’s also the primary location of the annual Gentse Feesten, a music and theatre festival held during the summer.

Rest for a while at Korenmarkt and soak up the historic atmosphere. Sip a coffee and enjoy an organic breakfast at Le Pain Quotidien, or grab a beer at any of the bars on Klein Turkije.

Citadelpark

One of the fun, non-touristy things to do in Ghent is to put together your own picnic and relax outside with the locals. Citadelpark is the most scenic spot to do just that.

It was created in 1875 on the site of a former citadel, transforming an artillery barracks into a peaceful oasis. The luscious green space between the Scheldt and Lys rivers is full of rare botanic gems and interesting monuments to look out for.

The Ghent Water Tram

One of Ghent’s best and most unique modes of transport is the water tram. A canal boat ride is perfect for sightseeing from another perspective, and tours are offered in multiple languages.

Book a historic tour, or simply jump aboard the hop-on, hop-off water tram, which is free with the CityCard .

The tram route follows a regular route along the Lys, Muinkschelde, Ketelvest and Reep rivers and canals. Check online to plan your journey in advance and see which points of interest are closest to the six stops.

Saint Nicholas’ Church

Saint Nicholas’ Church is one of Ghent’s largest and most prominent landmarks, rising elegantly above the city’s skyline. Completed in the 1200s, the commanding blue-grey stone structure is a famous example of Scheldt Gothic architecture.

The church you can see today has undergone extensive restoration in order to highlight the stunning stonework inside.

The colourful stained-glass windows and magnificent Cavaillé-Coll organ were both added in the 19th century when reconstruction began.

Ghent City Museum (STAM)

The Ghent City Museum, commonly referred to as STAM , is one of the city’s most remarkable and modern museums.

The fascinating main exhibit chronologically details the history of Ghent since the Middle Ages. In addition to the permanent exhibition, there are always additional temporary collections and events.

If you only speak English, be sure to go with the audio guide for a more comprehensive experience, as many of the written explanations are exclusively in Dutch. Afterwards, you can visit the STAMcafé for a snack and a cup of tea on the sun terrace.

Dulle Griet

Anyone who has spent time in Ghent would agree that Dulle Griet is the place to be of an evening. The beer hall on Vrijdagmarkt 50 boats the largest collection of Belgian beer in the city, including Max van het Huis, served in a 1.2-litre glass. I

f you decide to try this lager, limit yourself to one. Patrons used to sneak off with these tall glasses, so prepare to temporarily give up your shoes until you drink the whole thing!

There’s a lively, rustic and medieval atmosphere inside that simply isn’t matched anywhere else. As the bar is popular with tourists too, it’s a great spot to meet and chat with other people from around the world.

Van Eyck Pools

One of the more unusual things to do in Ghent is to go for an art deco swim. If you’re wondering what this means exactly, it simply entails a trip to the Van Eyck Pools , which are splendidly designed in an art deco style.

Although it’s the oldest indoor swimming pool in Belgium, it was fully restored in 2001 to protect its architectural beauty. The pool is open until 10 p.m. on weekdays, so you can stop by for a nighttime swim after a busy day of sightseeing.

Werregarenstraat

Ghent’s main graffiti street, Werregarenstraat, is the best area to see some of the local street art. The narrow alleyway between Hoogpoort and Onderstraat is officially sanctioned by the city as a canvas for anyone and everyone.

Every time you visit, the artwork is never the same. In fact, the walls are frequently painted over to create a blank slate.

It’s interesting to stop by and see how the locals express themselves through street art. If you’re already nearby, it won’t take much time either.

Made up of charming old-world houses and twisting cobbled lanes, Patershol is the perfect neighbourhood for a wander. It also happens to be the foodie hub of the city, so it’s the best area to head to for a delicious meal.

You’ll find a range of cuisines, from traditional Flemish to Italian, Turkish, Japanese, and even Indonesian.

Above all, it’s a hip residential neighbourhood that you’ll instantly fall in love with (and probably want to move to yourself!). A stroll through the area after dinner with your significant other can even be one of the most romantic things to do in Ghent.

Saint Peter’s Abbey

The former Benedictine complex known as Saint Peter’s Abbey originated in the late 600s and has a complex history. Throughout the centuries, the abbey experienced waves of decline as well as prosperity.

After many years of struggles and a raid by the Normans of France, it received considerable donations and became the richest abbey in Flanders during the late 10th century. After the 1539 Revolt of Ghent, the abbey was severely damaged and was rebuilt in its Baroque style in the mid to late 1600s.

Five Counts and Countesses of Flanders are buried at the complex, which is currently used as an exhibition centre. Enjoy the sunshine in the hidden yet spacious inner courtyard garden, a surprisingly popular hangout.

Vrijdagmarkt

Vrijdagmarkt is another of Ghent’s old town squares and an important part of the city’s history and development.

The square is roughly 100 by 100 metres and surrounded by guildhalls turned into cafes and restaurants. In the centre sits a statue of Jacob van Artevelde, known as both the Wise Man and the Brewer of Ghent.

The name Vrijdagmarkt directly translates to Friday Market, so as you’d expect, a weekly market is held every Friday.

In fact, the market has been running since the 12th century, so it’s an incredible tradition to get to be a part of. Each Friday morning, stalls are set up to sell everything from fresh produce to vintage furniture.

Recommended tours in Ghent

• Guided boat trip in medieval Ghent
• Ghent Like a Local: Customized Private Tour
• Experience Authentic Belgian Cuisine: Cooking Lesson and Meal with a Ghent Local
• Guided Boat Trip in Ghent
• 2.5-Hour Belgium Beer Tasting Tour in Ghent
• Chocolate Tour in Ghent, with a local guide!
• Belfort of Ghent Entrance Ticket
• Ghent Beer and Sightseeing Adventure
• Vacation Photographer in Ghent

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Sam, a seasoned traveler across four continents and 49 countries, is a leading authority in travel planning. Her website, Travelling King, offers tailored itineraries and expert guides for seamless trips. Sam's expertise in luxury travel, fast travel, and destination guides keeps her at the forefront of the travel community.

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• Aug 8, 2022

Ghent: A guide to Belgium's most charming city

Updated: Sep 17, 2022

Ghent is the most charming city in Belgium in our opinion. Often compared to Bruges, it has beautiful buildings, 2 rivers, and an important history. During the Middle Ages, Ghent was a wealthy and prominent city-state mainly due to the manufacturing of cloth made from English wool. Today, it’s a university town and cultural hub full of amazing architecture, such as the 12th-century Gravensteen castle. From towering churches to detailed statues and peaceful canals, there are hundreds of charming views to take in here. In this article, we'll break down how to get to Ghent, everything you need to know before going there, where to eat and drink, where to stay, and the best things to do in Ghent.

Check out our video about Ghent to get a sense of what it's like there!

How to get to Ghent

The city of Ghent is located in the northwest of Belgium, at the confluence of two rivers, the Leie and the Schelde. Ghent has a perfect location. It is only 50 kilometers from Brussels , 50 kilometers from Bruges , 55 kilometers from Antwerp , and 65 kilometers from Ostend . You have the option to fly into 3 different airports when visiting Ghent.

You can fly to Brussels Airport , take a train to Brussel Central , and then another train to Gent Sint Pieters . This will only take you an hour. Book your flight with Skyscanner to get the cheapest options!

Another option is flying to Ostend-Bruges International Airport , taking a shuttle to Ostend Station , and then a direct train to Gent Sint Pieters which takes 40 minutes.

The last option is flying to Lille Airport , taking a shuttle to Lille Flandres , a train to Kortrijk , and then a train to Gent Sint Pieters. The train journey will take you an hour and 30 minutes. If you don't want to take a train from the airport you can rent a car through rentalcars.com .

Use our map below to get directions to Ghent as well as directions to the best things to do there, which we mention later in this article.

Important things to know before you go to Ghent

The best time to visit Ghent is between June and October . The weather is best from June to September, but October is the month when all the students come back to the city so the atmosphere will be amazing. In October, the weather will be less ideal but the students will be back in the city because the university has started again. This means the atmosphere in the city will be buzzing.

Flemish is the main language spoken in Ghent. It is very similar to Dutch. Most people (especially in the tourism sector) will also speak French and English .

Ghent is safe, especially in the center and during the day. In the evening, be aware of drunk people. Be cautious when going to the Brugse Poort, het Zuid , the Overpoort (if you're partying there just watch out that you don't get involved in fights), and all the parks at night.

Try and visit Ghent on the first Sunday of the month. All the stores will be open and the busses and trams will be free. The center of Ghent is not big, so you can walk everywhere. However, the station is pretty far from the center so we recommend taking the tram (line 4) which is normally €2.50/per person for one ride. It's free on the first Sunday of the month.

Where To Stay In Ghent

Budget accommodations in ghent.

Hostel Uppelink

Guesthouse PoortAckere : is in a former monastery

Medium-priced accommodations in Ghent

Getaway Studios Gent

Baeten's bed and breakfast

Premium accommodation in Ghent

Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Reylof Ghent

1898 The Post

Where to eat and drink in Ghent

Where to eat in ghent:.

Bridge : has amazing meat stew

Frituur Tartaar : very good fries in the center of Ghent

Chocolatier Deduytschaever : has won multiple prices for their chocolate

Chocolaterie Vandenbouhede : has the craziest flavors of chocolate

't Klokhuys : has all the specialities of Ghent and Flandres such as Gentse Waterzooi, Flemish meat stew (stoverij), and much more.

O'yo : a healthy place for brunch and lunch with lots of vegan options

De Kastart : best pasta in the city

Amadeus : unlimited spare ribs

Where to go for a drink in Ghent:

Dulle Griet : has the biggest selection of beers in Ghent

Het Spijker : one of the most popular bars for students

Ghent Gruut Brewery : a brewery in the center of Ghent where you can try the beer

Barazza Café : has a cozy terrace next to the river

Best things to do in Ghent

There are so many things to do in Ghent that sadly we couldn't include them all in our list. We do want to mention the following attractions/things to do because they are also really fun.

De Krook (especially at night when the lights are on)

Delirium brewery

Beer tasting

Chocolate tasting

City bike tour

STAM Ghent City Museum

Now, let's move on to the best things to do in Ghent!

7. Try the local delicacies

One of our top recommendations for things to do in Ghent is to try the local delicacies. Belgium in general has tasty food and drinks, such as waffles, french fries, and Belgian Beer. But in Ghent specifically, you can try Delirium Tremens . It’s one of the best beers in Belgium and is brewed about 15 minutes outside the city center. We also recommend a tasty local candy called a “ Gentse Neusje ”, which looks like a human nose, but tastes like heaven. And finally, you have to try a “ Julientje ”. A Julientje is a dish with fries, mayonnaise, flemish stew saus ( stoofvleessaus ), satékruiden, viandel, and crispy onions. It was invented by de Gouden Saté in the party street of Ghent, the Overpoort .

6. Walk around Patershol

Patershol is one of the prettiest neighborhoods in all of Ghent. With unique architecture, well-preserved cobbled streets, and serene views of the canals, this is a must-visit spot. Walking around here will make you feel like you’re back in the Middle Ages. There are also many cozy pubs in this area to enjoy.

5. Free walking tour of the historic center

At number 5, we recommend taking a free walking tour of the city. Starting at Hostel Uppelink next to the Saint Michaels Bridge , you’ll learn all about the history of Ghent. Including how Ghent came to be one of the largest towns in Northern Europe in the 13th century. On the tour, you’ll stop by some of the most famous tourist attractions in all of Ghent. This includes the three main churches ( Saint Nicholas Church , Saint Bavo’s Cathedral , and Belfry ) , the City Hall , Gravensteen Castle , and the Graffiti Street where it is legal to spray graffiti. The free walking tour finishes in front of the St. Bavo’s Cathedral. This is where you can find The Ghent Altarpiece, which is also called the “Adoration of the Mystic Lamb”. It’s worth checking it out inside the church! This artwork was created in the 15th century and is considered a masterpiece of European art.

4. Visit the Castle of the Counts (Gravensteen Castle)

The Gravensteen Castle , also known as Castle of the Counts, towers high above the canal. The current castle dates back to 1180 and was the residence of the Counts of Flanders until 1353. During the industrial revolution, it was even turned into a cotton mill at one point. Now, the castle is a museum and a major landmark in the city. We highly recommend doing the audio-tour that is both funny and interesting.

3. Chill at Graslei or Korenlei

The touristic hotspot of Ghent is definitely the Graslei or Korenlei . Located directly across from each other on opposite sides of the river, these two quays are part of the medieval port that hosted ships since the 11th century. Take a moment to appreciate the details in the buildings here, such as the swans on the Marriott hotel at Korenlei. The swan swimming to the left symbolizes women, whereas a swan swimming to the right alludes to drinks. The fun part about the Graslei and Korenlei is that it is a place where tourists and locals get mixed together. During lunchtime in the school year, you'll see that it is full of students eating their lunch while during the vacations it is full of tourists and locals enjoying the sun and architecture.

2. Enjoy The Festivities

Ghent is known around Europe for having some of the best festivals during holiday months. In the winter for the last few weeks of December, you can enjoy a cozy Christmas market . At the market, you will find warm glüh-wine, a variety of jenever shots, waffles, rides, and an ice skating rink. In the summer, Ghent transforms the downtown center into the Gentse Feesten . For 10 days at the end of July, over 1 million people flood the streets to enjoy free concerts at multiple stages throughout the city. The good vibes are flowing here all day long and you won’t have a shortage of entertainment options to choose from.

1. Kayak or boat tour on the river

One of the best things to do in Ghent is to take in the views from the canals. You have two options to do this. One is to rent your own kayak and go at your own pace. In this way, you can take your time at each spot depending on how long you want to stay there. To rent a kayak, head to Hostel Uppelink . The other option is to do a 50-minute guided boat tour. Here, you’ll get a short history lesson while you admire Ghent's most famous sights from a unique view on the water. The tour is conducted in English, Dutch, and French and is a great option if you just want to relax on the water and take in the beauty of the city. You can save time by pre-booking the medieval boat tour here .

Free Giveaway

Did you enjoy our article on the best things to do in Ghent? Download our free giveaway and spark your wanderlust with our top 100 travel destinations around the world!

Other Top Ghent resources:

If you're looking for some other information on Ghent and the best things to do there, here are some great articles that will help you:

10+ memorable things to do in Ghent: the gem of Belgium by The Invisible Tourist

17 Best Things to Do in Ghent by Travel Addicts

19 Fun Things To Do In Ghent, Belgium For Any Kind Of Weather by Wonderful Wanderings

Need more travel inspiration? Check out our other destinations and other articles about Belgium:

Bruges, Belgium: 5 Must-Do Things In Bruges

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Weekend in ghent: 48 hours guide to ghent.

• Tea Gudek Šnajdar

Ghent is a beautiful Belgian town with amazing old medieval architecture that looks like it hasn’t changed for centuries. However, it’s not a city museum, but a very lively town, filled with many small cafes, restaurants and some great shops. Because of that fantastic mix, Ghent is definitely one of my favourite Belgian towns. I visited it a few times already and thought it’s finally time to create this weekend guide to Ghent with some fun things to do during your 48 hours in Ghent.

Weekend in Ghent

How to get to ghent.

Ghent is located in the Belgian region of Flanders in the northwestern part of the country. It’s quite easy to reach it from Antwerp or Brussels. Regional trains are connecting Ghent with those cities departing every 30 minutes. And it will take you around an hour to get from Antwerp to Ghent.

If you’re visiting from the UK or France, you can get Eurostar or Thalys to Brussels or Lille and take a regional train to Ghent from there. NS International often has promotions for visiting Belgium from anywhere in the Netherlands. We got our return tickets from Amsterdam to Ghent for 29 euros only the last time we visited it.

* TIP : Keep an eye on NS International website to not miss any of their promotions.

Where to stay in Ghent

Ghent historic centre is stunning, and if you’d like to experience the city’s charm during your weekend in Ghent, it’s best to stay somewhere centrally. The whole city centre is a no-car zone, so it’s lovely to just stroll around and explore it on your own pace.

During some of my previous trips to Ghent, I stayed at Novotel Gent Centrum and Best Western Hotel Chamade , and both were really nice and cosy hotels. Novotel Gent Centrum has a perfect location, just next to the City Hall and Belfry. However, Best Western Hotel Chamade is closer to the Gent-Sint-Pieters train station, with a tram stop to the city centre just in front of it.

However, there are many more lovely hotels you can stay in while in Ghent. You can look for available accommodation on a link here .

Why there are so many historic buildings in Ghent

Once you arrive in Ghent, you’ll be amazed by all the medieval architecture you’ll find yourself surrounded by. Each time I’m there, I feel like I’ve stepped back into history. So, I hear you asking why there are so many historic buildings in Ghent?

Ghent has a long and quite interesting history. The area was inhabited already in Prehistory. However, the city starts to be built during the 7th century when the two abbeys at the banks of the River Scheldt, Saint Bavo and Saint Peter’s were founded. Later on, they were destroyed by Vikings, but the monks came back and rebuilt them. In the following years, the town started to grow around them.

Although today it’s a small town, Ghent was one of the most important cities in Europe during the Middle Ages. In the 13th century, it was the second biggest town north of Alps. Just after Paris . During that time, Belfry, Saint Bavo Cathedral and Saint Nicholas Church were built. So, you can get an idea of how magnificent the city must have to look like to its visitors.

Fields around Ghent were filled with sheep in the 15th century. So, wool and clothes production flourished during that time. And, they made Ghent one of the wealthiest cities of its time.

The city is also well known because of the Treaty of Ghent. It formally ended the war between Great Britain and the USA in 1814.

During the First World War and the Second World War Ghent was occupied but not destroyed. So, luckily for us today, all of its amazing medieval architecture survived.

⤷ Would you like to extend your visit to Ghent and visit some Flemish towns close by? Check out my guides to Mechelen and Ypres on links here.

What to do during a weekend in Ghent

Although you can visit Ghent on a day trip from Antwerp or Bruges , to really experience the city, you should spend at least a weekend in Ghent. During my last visit, we got ourselves 48 hours Ghent City Cards. We had free entrance to many sights in Ghent and could use public transport as much as we wanted with them. Getting the city cards is definitely something I’d recommend to you for your weekend in Ghent.

* TIP : You can read more about the Ghent City Card on a link here .

My favourite way of exploring the new cities is just by strolling around and taking it slowly. And Ghent’s historic centre, being a pedestrian zone, is perfect for doing that. However, there are some sights you shouldn’t miss during your weekend in Ghent.

Saint Bavo Cathedral

Address : Sint-Baafsplein

Although it was built for centuries, Saint Bavo Cathedral is a lovely example of Gothic architecture. However, you’ll find mostly Baroque altars and paintings in its interior. The reason for that is the iconoclasm. During the 16th century, when the Protestantism become more widely spread, groups of Calvinists would visit Catholic churches and destroy paintings, statues and stained-glass windows. They showed the disagreement with all the wealth Catholic Church gained throughout the centuries that way.

The only medieval altarpiece that survived in Saint Bavo Cathedral is one of the most famous medieval art pieces in the world today – the Ghent Altarpiece . Created by brothers Hubert and Jan van Eyck in 1432, it’s a must-see during your weekend in Ghent. It was under the restoration between 2012 and 2019, so you can see it now in all of its glory.

* TIP : A special exhibition is organised in a moment about the Ghent Altarpiece and Jan van Eyck at MSK in Ghent. It’s for the first, and last time in history some panels of the altarpiece are displayed out of the cathedral. And, it’s also the biggest exhibition about Jan van Eyck ever organised. It’s open until April 30th 2020, and after that time you can see the complete altarpiece back in Saint Bavo Cathedral. Get your ticket for the exhibition on a link here .

Just opposite to the cathedral, another beautiful building you shouldn’t miss during your weekend in Ghent is located. Lakenhalle or the Cloth Hall built in the 15th century is showcasing the power of Ghent during the Middle Ages.

This is where the weavers had their clothes tested and where they offered it for sale. However, only seven bays on the south side were built during the Middle Ages. The building was extended by four bays in 1900. That was done so well that it’s hard to see the difference between the old and new parts today.

⤷ Read my Leuven Travel Guide on a link here

Attached to the building is a high tower called the Belfry. It was built in the 14th century and its 91 metres high. You can find belfries in many Flemish cities. They were built in this area as symbols of civic power.

You can visit the Belfry and climb to its gallery, from where you’ll have a fantastic view of Ghent. This is where up until 1840, the city watchmen were guarding and sounding the alarm when they spotted the fire. Ghent’s Belfry is listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage monument.

* TIP : Ghent’s Belfry is the only one I’ve ever seen with an elevator built in it. So, even if it looks a bit scary to climb all the way to the top level, you can get there quite quickly with an elevator.

Address : Hoogpoort 60

Just a few steps away another beautiful building is located, Ghent’s Town Hall. Its construction started in the 14th century and lasted for six hundred years. To me, all those different architectural styles make it so interesting, and definitely one of the most beautiful buildings in Ghent. You can see Brabanter Gothic, Italian Renaissance, Flemish Renaissance etc.

All those buildings are located very close to each other, so you can just stroll and explore the neighbourhood. There are many more interesting smaller houses there, as well. So just wander around and explore this part of the city on your own pace.

⤷ Read more about the celebration of the year of Bruegel in Belgium on a link here

Graffiti Street in Ghent

Address : Werregarenstraat

If you’d continue walking towards the Ghent’s Old Harbour, you’ll walk through a few small streets with many cute little shops. However, let me come back to shopping during your weekend in Ghent later.

From one of those small streets, you should turn right and enter a really cool graffiti street. You’ll recognise it because of a large portrait of Jan van Eyck at its entrance. Keep on walking through it and enjoy some graffiti and street art there.

One of my favourite things when it comes to visiting Belgium is how great its art is. And not only art you can find in the museums. But, also its comic books and street art you can find in almost any Belgian town. So, while exploring Ghent, keep your eyes open and look for some fatastic street art.

Gravensteen Castle

Address : Sint-Veerleplein 11

A bit unusual for the Middle Ages, Gravensteen Castle is located right in the centre of today’s city. Literally meaning the Castle of the Counts, it was built in the 12th century. The Counts of Flanders lived in this well-protected fort until 1400 when they moved to a more liveable Prinsenhof.

The old fort was restored at the end of the 19th century. You can visit it today to see how life in the medieval castle looked like. It also houses the Court and Weaponry Museum.

* TIP : Just across the street from the Gravensteen Castle, a charming Boon Restaurant is located. Serving fresh soups and salads, it’s a great place to take a break from sightseeing during your weekend in Ghent.

The Old Harbour

Address : Graslei

One of the reasons for Ghent’s prosperity during the past was its port and a trade that was happening there. Still today, it’s one of the most interesting parts of the city. You’ll find many beautiful old houses with different gables and decoration on them. If the weather is nice, you can just sit at the river bank and enjoy the view. Or have a meal at some of the restaurants there.

* TIP : During my last visit we had lunch at the restaurant called Manhattn’s . They are serving some delicious burgers, the service was great, and the view on the old port was fantastic from there.

One of the best ways to explore the Old Harbour and Ghent is on one of the boat tours. You can read more about the 50-Minute long boat trip through Ghent’s Medieval centre on a link here .

⤷ Read more : Things to do in Tournai

Ghent Museums

This beautiful Belgian town is also home to some quite interesting museums, you should visit during your trip to Ghent. I love how all of them have those funny acronyms, you can easily remember them by. There are, of course, many more museums in Ghent, but these are among the most interesting.

• MSK – ( Address : Fernand Scribedreef 1), Museum of Fine Arts is the oldest museums in Belgium. You’ll find art from the Middle Ages until the 21st century in its collection. In a moment they are hosting the most significant exhibition about Jan van Eyck ever organised. It’s going to be on display until April 30th 2020.
• SMAK – ( Address : Jan Hoetplein 1), If you’d like to see some modern art during your weekend in Ghent then put the Municipal Museum of Contemporary Art (SMAK) to your Ghent bucket list. Besides having a collection of modern and contemporary art created after 1945, they are regularly organising some interesting temporary exhibitions, as well.
• MIAT – ( Address : Minnemeers 10), The Museum for Industrial Archaeology and Textiles is documenting all the phases of the industrial revolution since 1750 to the present day. The highlight of its collection is the ‘Mule Jenny’, which was smuggled from England to Belgium in 1800.

What to eat during your weekend in Ghent

Well, food in Belgium and especially Belgian chocolates are probably a part of this country’s culture I love the most. There are numerous charming restaurants in Ghent serving some delicious local food. From a different kind of meat to pastries and sweets, you’ll find all of them there.

Vegetarian Thursdays

However, Ghent is also quite unique because of its vegetarian Thursdays (‘Donderdag Veggiedag’) organised each week there. All the public institutions and many restaurants are having a meat-free day each Thursday. How cool is that? Ghent also has the world’s largest number of vegetarian restaurants per capita.

Belgian beers

Belgium is very famous for its beers. And sometimes it looks to me as every single town and village in Belgium has its own beer production. You’ll find many specialised beer shops and bars in Ghent. Since, it could be tough to choose a beer you’d like to try, ask a person working there to help you. They are usually so passionate about the beers you’ll get a little lecture on Belgian beers and a chance to taste some very delicious beverages.

* TIP : If you’d like to learn more about Belgian beer during your time in Ghent, check out this Beer Walk .

Belgian sweets and chocolates

Well, I don’t think I ever came back from Belgium without a few boxes of some fine Belgian chocolates. And trust me you can’t compare them with anything you can buy at the supermarkets. There are many specialised chocolate producers in Belgium who’s shops you can find in Ghent, too. My favourite are Chocolaterie Luc van Hoorebeke and Neuhaus . Same as with beers, you can just get there and ask for some recommendations.

During my last visit to Ghent, I went to the Neuhaus shop. While I was tasting some of their delicious chocolates, a lovely lady working there told me a lot about the beginnings of chocolate production in Belgium. And even about the fact that at the very spot where their shop is, Jan van Eyck used to live. So, yes, visiting some chocolate shops is definitely a cultural experience in Ghent.

⤷ Read more about Belgian chocolate in my blog post here

Where to shop during your weekend in Ghent

Besides being a beautiful historic town filled with some fantastic medieval architecture, Ghent is also a great place for shopping.

Although Antwerp is known as Belgium’s fashion capital, you’ll find many great shops in Ghent, too. You can take a walk through its historic centre, from the Saint Bavo Cathedral in a direction of the train station. And you’ll find numerous small shops selling clothes, home decor and cosmetics. I really liked finding so many independent stores at the same place. And did some great shopping, too.

Ghent is a wonderful city that has something to offer to everyone. From an intact medieval city centre, some fantastic art pieces to delicious food and many cute shops, you’ll definitely find something for yourself during your weekend in Ghent.

*This post contains some affiliate links.

Belgium , Flanders , Ghent , Weekend in Ghent

Home » Travel Guides » United States » Idaho (ID) » 15 Best Things to Do in Moscow (Idaho)

15 Best Things to Do in Moscow (Idaho)

In a landscape of fertile rolling hills on the Idaho-Washington boundary, Moscow is the county seat of Latah County and the home of the University of Idaho, founded in the early 1890s.

The city has a cozy downtown with historic brick buildings from the turn of the 20th century and lots of community events, like a weekly farmers’ market spring through fall, and a bustling artwalk in June.

As you would expect, the University of Idaho plays an important role in the city’s cultural, social and sporting life, and many of the attractions in this list are connected to this institution in some way.

The surrounding Palouse landscape of rambling hills decked with wheat fields, can be explored on two paved rail trails, heading out east and west of the city.

1. University of Idaho Arboretum & Botanical Garden

The loveliest feature of the university campus’ verdant grounds is the UI Arboretum & Botanical Garden.

You’ll find it in 63 acres, just south of the President’s Residence and the university’s golf course, with undulating Palouse hills in the background.

Open to the public with free admission, the arboretum was laid out on a former hayfield in the early-1980s, although its origins go back way before, to the early 20th century.

In fact you can check out the site of the first arboretum, planted in the 1910s with majestic specimen trees, including a giant sequoia, on the north side of the President’s Residence.

As for the “new” arboretum, this counts more than 17,000 plants from over 2,400 taxa, mostly organized into geographical regions, including Europe, Asia and Eastern and Western North America.

On the south end are exquisite display gardens for xerophytes, ornamental willows, irises and heather, as well as a butterfly garden, magical in summer.

2. Latah Trail

Twelve miles long, this paved trail will take you east from Moscow all the way to the neighboring city of Troy.

The Latah Trail was completed in 2008 and is on the course of a dismantled BNSF railroad line that junctioned at Arrow, some 30 miles to the southeast.

The path is ten feet wide, allowing plenty of space for walkers and cyclists in summer, and snowshoers and cross-country skiers after snowfall in winter.

As this is a rail trail there are no difficult slopes but you’ll be guaranteed breathtaking panoramas of the Palouse, with tilled slopes interspersed with sweeps of coniferous forest.

In Moscow the Latah Trail merges seamlessly with the Paradise Path, in turn connecting with the Bill Chipman Palouse Trail, which we’ll talk about below.

3. Appaloosa Museum and Heritage Center

The Appaloosa, identified by its colorful spotted coat, is a horse breed synonymous with the Palouse region, so it’s fitting that there should be a museum for it, right on the Idaho-Washington state line.

The museum shines a light on a variety of topics, like the history of spotted horses in art and literature, Appaloosas’ various coat patterns, and the importance of Appaloosas to the native Nez Perce people.

Display cases are loaded with interesting objects, from saddles to black and white photography and Native American artifacts. There’s also a hands-on area to keep children engaged, as well as a theater and an extensive library.

4. Moscow Farmers’ Market

Taking place on Saturdays, 9 am to 1 pm, May through October, Moscow Farmers’ Market is now well into its fifth decade.

Right on Main Street, this is a celebration of the Moscow area’s farmers, artisans and musicians, giving them an opportunity to connect with the city’s residents and visitors.

For shoppers interested in food provenance the market is a chance to find out where your produce comes from and pick up tips about storage and preparation.

There’s a wide range of vendors for vegetables, fruit, plants, flowers, local grass-fed meat, pastries, honey, jams, cosmetics, home decorations, hand-forged knives and much more.

The market has live music most weeks, as well as freshly prepared food, from tacos to samosas.

5. Bill Chipman Palouse Trail

Following the right of way of the old Union Pacific Railroad, the Bill Chipman Palouse Trail runs west from Moscow, crossing the state line and taking you to Pullman, Washington.

Pullman is the home of the flagship campus for Washington State University, the second-largest institution of higher education in the state.

Seven miles long, the trail, paved all the way, carries you through bucolic Palouse scenery, parallel to State Route 270.

There’s a shallow gradient, and you’ll come across rest areas and interpretive signs along the route. And while the landscapes are gorgeous, the trail also has an important practical use as a commuter route for cyclists between the two university campuses.

6. Prichard Art Gallery

This outreach facility for the University of Idaho is located in downtown Moscow, and moved to its current location on Main Street in 1986.

The Prichard Art Gallery has a lively schedule of exhibitions, events and educational programming, receiving upwards of 17,000 visitors a year.

You can check out the creativity of members of the Idaho College of Art and Architecture, as well as temporary exhibits for local, regional, national and international artists in a whole spectrum of media.

The exhibits rotate at short intervals, so there’s always something fresh to see, while the gift shop sells unique pieces by artists and craftspeople from the area.

7. McConnell Mansion

On leafy Adams Street, a couple of blocks east of Main Street, stands the palatial W. J. McConnell House.

In a Stick/Eastlake style, this elegant residence was built in 1886 for William J. McConnell (1839-1925), who served as Governor of Idaho from 1893 to 1897, after previously representing the young state as one of its first United States Senators.

The mansion is the headquarters of the Latah County Historical Society, and you can take a look around a series of themed period rooms, featuring authentic furnishings and appliances.

The society also puts on fascinating exhibits and learning events, often in partnership with the University of Idaho and always well worth attending.

8. Colter’s Creek Winery

The rolling country south of Moscow has everything you need to make great wine, and in 2016 the Lewis-Clark Valley gained official AVA (American Viticultural Area) designation.

Colter’s Creek has a storefront and tasting room in Moscow, growing its grapes on the sunny slopes where the Potlatch flows into the Clearwater River.

Planted between the 1980s and 2010s these vineyards produce a wide variety of grapes, running the gamut from Riesling to Cabernet Sauvignon, for local handcrafted wines that have earned widespread acclaim.

The stylish Moscow tasting room is in Main Street’s Hattabaugh building, constructed in 1890, and has a choice of estate wines on tap. Wine tasting classes take place regularly, to help you tell a Sangiovese from a Tempranillo.

9. Kenworthy Performing Arts Centre

On the National Register of Historic Places, this fine old Spanish Revival cinema has a history going back to 1926, and was founded as a vaudeville stage and silent movie house.

The current tiled facade, in a pared-down Art Deco style, has been in place since 1949, and up to the late-1980s this was downtown Moscow’s main movie theater.

Since 2000, the venue has belonged to the Kenworthy Performing Arts Centre, which carried out thorough renovations in the 2010s. Come for classic, independent and foreign films, as well as a variety of community stage performances and other events.

10. Hamilton-Lowe Aquatics Center

Summers in Moscow wouldn’t be the same without this public outdoor pool, splash pad and water park, open June through September.

If you want to get your laps in, the Hamilton-Lowe Aquatics Center has a 25-yard, six-lane pool.

Meanwhile parents can bring children to the extensive play area, which features a toddler-friendly slide, tumble buckets, interactive equipment, slides for bigger kids and a small lazy river.

The center also has picnic tables, barbecues, lounge chairs and free Wi-Fi, as well as a full-service concession area, though you’re free to bring your own food.

11. Idaho Vandals

The 16,000-seater multipurpose arena, Kibbie Dome is home field for several of the University of Idaho’s sports teams, all called the Idaho Vandals.

So depending on the time of year you can catch pulsating football, basketball (men and women), soccer (women), tennis and indoor track and field at this venue.

The Kibbie Dome was completed in 1971 as an open-air stadium, and was given its barrel-vaulted roof in 1975.

The football team competes in the Big Sky Conference in the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS), returning in 2016 after 20 years bouncing around the Big West, Sun Belt and Western Athletic Conferences.

The Vandals’ golden age came between 1985 and 1995 when it reached the I-AA playoffs in ten out of 11 seasons.

If you’re wondering about the name, “Vandals”, it goes back more than a century, when UI’s feared basketball team played defense with such ferocity that they were dubbed the Vandals by the famous coach Hec Edmundson (1886-1964).

12. Ghormley Park

Bordered on the south side by Paradise Creek, Ghormley Park is the favorite destination for family fun and outdoor recreation in summer.

The park covers just over ten acres, a large section of which is in the shade of tall, mature trees.

This is where you’ll find the picnic shelter, fitted with BBQ grills, as well as a children’s playground.

Elsewhere there are amenities for baseball/softball, basketball and horseshoes. You can use the Paradise Trail, which traces the creek and connects a number of green spaces in Moscow, to get onto the Latah Trail on the east side of the city and the Bill Chipman Trail in the west.

13. Palouse Ice Rink

You can hit the ice at this popular local rink on the southeast side of town. Resembling an aircraft hangar, the Palouse Ice Rink has a temporary look about it, and when we wrote this article was making strides raising money for a permanent complex.

There are regular public skate sessions early in the day, after school and in the evening, and skate rental is reasonably priced.

Also on the schedule are casual stick-n-puck sessions, pick-up hockey, drop-in late-night curling, league curling, Palouse Adult League Hockey and much more. Check the calendar for learn-to-skate sessions.

14. Moscow Artwalk

Beginning back in 2004, the Moscow Artwalk is a landmark on the Palouse calendar. On one Friday evening in June, more than 60 businesses and 100 artists around downtown participate in a vibrant cultural and artistic event.

Moscow Artwalk brings exhibitions of a wide variety, as well as live demonstrations by artists, workshops, live music, dance performances and food vendors, on Main Street and its intersecting streets.

You can take in this cultural feast on a self-guided trail, and there’s a passport system, with six stamps making you eligible for a prize draw. And if you miss something, many of the participating businesses also have Saturday hours.

15. Fondo on the Palouse

The foundation responsible for the Latah Trail organizes this cycling event, normally staged on the last Saturday in June.

Fondo on the Palouse takes you out into the beautiful rolling Palouse landscape on a variety of group bike rides, all setting off from Moscow.

The Family Fondo is a 15-mile route from Moscow to Troy. If you want something longer but want to stay away from road traffic, there’s a 50-mile ride along the Latah and Bill Chipman Palouse Trails.

And finally the grand Moscow Fondo is a 100-mile tour of the region, passing through Troy, Deary, Princeton and Potlatch, crossing the state line to Pullman and Colfax, WA, before returning to Moscow.

15 Best Things to Do in Moscow (Idaho):

• University of Idaho Arboretum & Botanical Garden
• Latah Trail
• Appaloosa Museum and Heritage Center
• Moscow Farmers' Market
• Bill Chipman Palouse Trail
• Prichard Art Gallery
• McConnell Mansion
• Colter's Creek Winery
• Kenworthy Performing Arts Centre
• Hamilton-Lowe Aquatics Center
• Idaho Vandals
• Ghormley Park
• Palouse Ice Rink
• Moscow Artwalk
• Fondo on the Palouse