visit antwerp or ghent

Antwerp vs Ghent: An Honest Comparison To Help You Choose!

A side from being a center for European politics, Belgium is famed for its chocolate, Belgian waffles, beer and the stunning and varied architecture on display within its historic cities.

When it comes to choosing which city to visit — Ghent or Antwerp — there’s plenty to see and do in each city: there are castles and cathedrals, medieval museums, and modern shopping. And when you need to refuel, there’s Belgian beer, fries, and delicious pastries! But which should you visit….

Well Antwerp, often referred to as the fashion capital of Belgium, is Belgium’s largest city by population. The city is a seaport, sitting on the river Scheldt and linked to the North Sea by the river’s Westerschelde estuary. Antwerp has more things to do than Ghent, and will likely be the better choice for families.

Famous attractions to explore include the Gothic Cathedral of Our Lady, the diamond district, Het Steen Castle, and Rubenhuis, where you can admire the artwork of Flemish artist and former Antwerp citizen Peter Paul Rubens.

Meanwhile Ghent is Belgium’s second-largest city by population and is also a port city thanks to the Ghent-Terneuzen Canal, which links it to the North Sea. Often referred to as the ‘Venice of the North,’ Ghent is arguably the more romantic and prettier city of the two and can be explored via its cobbled lanes or by canal.

Not to be outdone by its eastern neighbor, Ghent also has plenty of history to uncover; explore the 12th-century Gravensteen Castle, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Sint-Pietersabdij Abbey, and take in great views of the city from the Belfort tower.

Luckily if you’re planning a short city break to Belgium and are trying to decide between Ghent and Antwerp, we’re going to dive deeper into the differences and similarities between these two cities to help you decide.

Read on as we show you which is easiest to get to and explore, which has the best cultural attractions, the best day trips, the best nightlife and more…

Which Has The Best Attractions?

Which has the best day trips, which is better for families, which is better for nightlife, where to stay according to your budget, which is easier to get to, which is easier to get around.

• Which Is The Better Choice?

With archeological evidence proving human activity in the area that predates the Roman period, you can be sure both cities have a rich history to explore when there.

Throughout the centuries, this area of north-western Europe has seen many political changes, and a few historically important battles have taken place within Belgium.

Both cities have an array of museums, churches, abbeys, and art galleries to explore, and both cities are lined with stunning architectural examples from various periods of history.

So with that the case, we’re going to take a look at a few of the top cultural attractions in each city in order to help you choose which one is best for you:

Antwerp: The Attractions

1. museum aan de stroom (mas).

The Museum aan de Stroom, known simply as the MAS Antwerp, is the city’s most prestigious museum. The building itself is a work of art, with stunning views across the city from the roof of its tenth floor.

Inside, the museum’s different floors portray different themes, with the 8th floor’s world-famous collection of art from pre-Columbian America being a popular spot.

Aside from the exhibits and views, the museum also houses a two-Michelin-star restaurant, ‘t Zilte. The restaurant’s kitchen is officially the highest kitchen in the city, and the food is superb.

2. Rubens House

A visit to Rubens House (Rubenshuis) will enable you to walk around in the private accommodations, workshop, and beautiful garden of the house where Flemish artist and diplomat Sir Peter Paul Rubens once lived and worked.

Rubens acquired the property in 1610, and it was then bought by the city in 1937 before being opened to the public in 1946.

Several paintings and artworks by Rubens and his contemporaries are on display, as well as period furniture. Notable paintings include his early Adam and Eve and a self portrait made when he was aged about fifty.

3. Cathedral of Our Lady

The construction of the Gothic-style Roman Catholic Cathedral of Our Lady began in 1352, and although the first stage of building was finished in 1521, the whole project was never officially completed.

Initial plans included two equally high towers, but the south one remains about half the height of the northern tower.

Aside from the stunning exterior architecture, the first thing you will notice is the church’s size. It occupies one hectare of the city center and is the largest Gothic church in the Benelux Union of Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg. It can hold 25,000 people and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

4. The Diamond District

Antwerp has been an important player in the international diamond trade since the middle of the 15th century. Its historic diamond district, next to the Central Station, is believed to handle 80% of the world’s uncut diamonds.

Visitors can wander around the district and check out the jewellery shops, and to learn more about the historic diamond trade, you can also head to the nearby DIVA, the diamond museum.

5. Het Steen Castle

Het Steen Castle is a medieval fortress dating back to the thirteenth century. It is Antwerp’s oldest building, and its name, when translated from Dutch, means “the rock.” Over the centuries, the building has served a few different purposes, from a prison to a museum.

These days it’s a visitors center with a panoramic rooftop and is home to The Antwerp Story exhibition, which showcases the history of the city and gives an overview of its districts, its people, and what makes Antwerp special.

Ghent: The Attractions

1. the castle of the counts.

The Castle of the Counts, known locally in Dutch as the Gravensteen, is a medieval castle that dates back to 1180.

This castle was the official residence of the Counts of Flanders until 1353, since when it has been used as a court, a prison, a mint, and even for a period as a cotton factory. It is the only remaining medieval castle in Flanders with a moat and a largely intact defense system.

The Counts of Flanders converted the earlier wooden building work into living quarters in the Middle Ages, and the castle featured 24 towers. The building’s impressive size would have been even more impressive at the time of its construction, and it stood as a symbol of the Counts’ power.

Visitors today can explore a collection of ancient torture devices. If you want to explore Ghent’s rich history, there’s no better starting point than the Gravensteen.

2. St Bavo’s Cathedral

Ghent’s oldest parish church, St. Bavo’s Cathedral, sits on the site of its two predecessors, which were built in the 10th and 12th centuries, respectively.

During the 15th and 16th centuries, the site was redesigned, and St. Bavo’s Cathedral was built. With its long and rich history, the cathedral has acquired a number of art treasures that visitors can admire.

Highlights include the Baroque high altar, the Rococo pulpit in oak, gilded wood, and marble, and a masterpiece by Rubens. The cathedral also houses the famous Adoration of the Mystic Lamb artwork.

This is a multi-paneled piece, also known as the Ghent Altarpiece, that was completed in 1432. The work is attributed to the painters and brothers Hubert and Jan van Eyck and is considered a masterpiece. It was the world’s “first major oil painting”, and is seen as starting the transition from Middle Age to Renaissance art.

3. Ghent Belfry

The Belfort van Ghent, or the Belfry of Ghent in English, is one of a collection of three medieval towers that sit in the old city center. The other two can be found at the beautiful Saint Bavo Cathedral and Saint Nicholas’ Church.

The Belfort reaches 91 meters (299 feet), is the tallest belfry in Belgium and is actually a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its construction began back in 1313 and continued until 1380.

The belfry features an iconic dragon, which was put in place in 1377 to keep an eye on the city and be the symbolic guardian of the belfry. You can climb up to the top of the tower for sweeping views across the city.

4. St Peter’s Abbey

A former Benedictine abbey, it was founded in the 7th century by St Amand, the patron saint of all who produce beer.

The abbey now houses a museum and exhibition centre, and its gardens and vineyard are a much-loved green area of the city, and a great place for a coffee in the sun.

The Abbey was chosen as the final resting place for many Counts and Countesses of Flanders, and it has been under restoration since the 1950s, with work still ongoing in the refectory wing.

5. Museum of Fine Arts

Art lovers can enjoy a stroll around the Museum of Fine Arts (MSK), Belgium’s oldest museum. With works by old masters and modernists hung side-by-side, it’s like taking a walk through the history of art.

Works by Bosch, Rubens, and Magritte are among the impressive collection of art from as far back as the Middle Ages right up to the 20th century.

Panels from the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb, which is displayed at St. Bavo’s Cathedral, are being restored here, and visitors can see the restoration work taking place live.

The museum is open from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m., and you can get tickets in advance online instead of queuing up when you arrive.

The beauty of smaller nations is that getting around is so much easier.

And a visit to either Ghent or Antwerp will allow you to visit other areas of the country pretty easily. In fact one option for a day trip from Antwerp is Ghent, and vice versa.

You can hire a car and drive between the two cities in under an hour, traffic permitting. So, if you arrive in Antwerp and suddenly fear you made the wrong choice, simply hop in a car or train and go find out…

Brussels is a similar distance from Ghent as it is from Antwerp too, and it is kind of in the middle of the two cities. You can easily head into Brussels for the day from either city on the train.

As the country’s capital city, there’s plenty to see and do in Brussels. Aside from the excellent shopping, Brussels is home to the European Parliament, NATO, and a strangely appealing statue of a boy urinating, the Manneken Pis (Dutch for ‘Little Pissing Man’).

Another popular destination for a day trip from either city is a visit to Waterloo, just south of Brussels. Waterloo was the infamous site of Napoleon’s defeat at the hands of the Duke of Wellington.

The Battle of Waterloo took place near Waterloo on June 18, 1815, and you can visit the battleground to see the Lion’s Mound and a panoramic painting of the battle.

The Lion’s Mound commemorates the spot where Willem, Prince of Orange (and from 1840, King Willem II of The Netherlands), was injured when a musket bullet knocked him off his horse during the battle.

If you’re all ‘historied-out’ and would rather escape to explore Belgium’s green countryside, a trip to Belgium’s only national park, Hoge Kempen National Park, is a great option.

It’s an hour away from Antwerp and about ninety minutes from Ghent, and it’s covered by heathland and pine forest and can be explored by foot, bicycle, mountain bike, or horseback.

So all in all, it’s hard to separate Antwerp from Ghent when it comes to day trips. Although the fact Belgium’s only national park is a little closer to Antwerp may make it the better choice for some.

If you’re traveling with the children, you’ll be pleased to know that both cities have plenty of attractions to keep them entertained.

In either city, you will be able to find plenty of cinemas and shopping opportunities, and the kids will enjoy exploring the castles.

Belgian waffles and fries always go down well with the kids too, but if you’re looking for child-specific activities, Antwerp may be the better option.

In Antwerp, taking the kids on a subterranean adventure to explore De Ruien is always a winner.

De Ruien is the city’s old sewer and underground canals, which can be explored with kids three years old and up. The boat tour takes you through the old sewers and lasts about 15 minutes.

And Plopsa Station Antwerp is a mini indoor theme park that celebrates Belgium’s famous cartoon characters, the Smurfs and Tin-Tin. It’s located close to the main train station, and it’s a good place to keep the kids entertained for a few hours—perfect should it rain.

On top of that, Chocolate Nation in Antwerp is the world’s biggest chocolate factory and is always a big hit with the children. It has interactive multimedia exhibits and occasionally runs chocolate-making workshops. Be careful in the gift shop, though…

Ghent has fewer options, specifically for the kids, but there’s still plenty to do. Aside from bowling, cinemas, and karting, there are also some large parks to explore, especially if you visit during the summer, including a big skate park (Blaarmeersen).

One activity that’s a little different in Ghent but not aimed solely at children is going rafting—in the city! There are no rapids, but you can enjoy a different view of the city as you paddle around her ancient waterways.

While you’ll have plenty to do in each city, Antwerp is perhaps a little more geared up for children, and there are a few more options for keeping them entertained here.

If you’re planning on letting your hair down on your city break, you will be pleased to know that both cities have plenty to do once the sun goes down. Both cities have healthy student populations, and there are plenty of bars and clubs to enjoy.

Try Trollekelder if you want to visit a traditional tavern and drink some real Belgian beer. Charleton is a fascinating bar that occasionally becomes a little rowdier as the night progresses.

And if you want to keep going into the wee small hours, Kompass Nightclub is a good bet, although it’s a little outside the city center, so plan your transportation before you start enjoying yourself too much.

Antwerp also has an abundance of bars and pubs and is often touted as having the best nightlife in all of Belgium – better than Ghent.

You’ll be able to find numerous cool bars where you can just hang out with a few buddies and listen to live music.

If you plan to dance the night away, the city’s top clubs are Café d’Anvers and IKON Antwerp. Café d’Anvers is situated in a 16th-century church in the middle of Antwerp’s red light district, and in 2011, it was voted number 38 in DJ Magazine’s “Top 100 Clubs in the World” poll.

While there are plenty of bars in each city where you can relax into Belgian beer culture, if you’re looking to party well into the night, Antwerp may just be the better option.

If you’ve already searched for flights to these two cities, you will have noticed that only one of them, Antwerp, has its own airport.

Antwerp International Airport (ANR) is a small international airport located three miles (five kilometers) south of the city. It is used for some scheduled and charter flights, but only receives direct flights from London and a few southern European cities.

Ghent, on the other hand, does not have its own airport.

But before you assume Antwerp will be much easier to reach, you should also check out Brussels as an entry point. Of the 50 states and territories of Europe, Belgium is only the 35th largest, and as such, it’s very easy to move around between the cities.

Brussels is less than an hour’s drive from both Ghent and Antwerp, and it is also home to two international airports. Brussels-Zaventem Airport (BRU) is the busier of the two and receives direct flights from all over Europe as well as from a few major eastern US cities, the Middle East, Africa, and from a couple of Asian destinations. The airport is located seven miles (12 kilometers) north-east of the city center.

Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL), sometimes referred to as Brussels-Charleroi Airport, is the smaller of the two Brussels’ airports, but it is very well connected to the rest of Europe.

The airport lies around thirty miles south of the center of Brussels, and there are regular buses and shuttles into the city and to its main train station.

While it will depend on your point of origin, you may find it a little easier to get to Antwerp. But with both cities being a similar distance from Brussels—around fifty kilometers—both Ghent and Antwerp are reasonably easy to get to, especially from within Europe.

Budget: Borgerhouse B&B  sits in an exceptional historic building in the center of Antwerp and offers modern, renovated rooms and a delicious breakfast for a fantastic price. See photos and rates!

Luxury: Simply put, the five-star Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp is a piece of paradise in this bustling, busy city. The grounds are gorgeous, the rooms photogenic and the service world class. See photos and rates!

Budget: Violet Suites is a great place for a weekend budget stay. Not only is the location fantastic and just a few minutes away from many bars and restaurants, but some suites even come with their own private outsIde space. See photos and rates!

Luxury: Boutique hotel 1898 The Post is set in a stunning historic building right in the heart of Ghent. The facilities are excellent, the service world-class, and the hotel itself one of the most beautiful in the country. See photos and rates!

Moving around within both of these two cities is pretty straightforward too. The two cities may be the largest cities in the country by population, but they are not as big as sprawling metropolises like Paris or London.

Their relative compact size makes getting around pretty easy, and with lots of public transport options, getting from A to B should be pretty easy in either city.

Both cities have plenty of taxis, buses, and trams to help you move around, and each city has a city travel card (the CityCard Ghent and the Antwerp City Card), which makes using public transport even more affordable and convenient.

You can also explore either city by bicycle, with each city having shared cycle options and various pick-up and drop-off points conveniently placed around the cities.

Antwerp vs Ghent: Which Is The Better Choice?

As two cities with long and varied histories, you can be sure you’ll find plenty of cool and interesting activities in both Ghent and Antwerp.

Both are blessed with stunning architectural examples from different periods of history; both have cool castles to explore and impressive cathedrals.

Belgian beer, fries, and chocolate are widely available in both cities, but if you’re traveling with kids or looking to party hard, Antwerp may be the better choice.

And you will always have the option of visiting both on the same trip. As one of Europe’s smaller countries, getting around Belgium is pretty easy, so you can always visit both cities in one trip.

Both Antwerp and Ghent are fun and vibrant cities with plenty going on. Whichever destination you choose, you’re sure to have an interesting and enjoyable trip.

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Ghent or Antwerp: Which City to Visit

Ghent and Antwerp are two of the largest and most visited cities in Belgium. Ghent has a well-preserved medieval city center and many waterways throughout the city. Antwerp is a much larger city with one of the largest ports in Europe and it has a unique blend of modern and historic architecture. If you are trying to decide between visiting Ghent or Antwerp, this is the ultimate guide to help you decide which city to visit.

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Ghent or Antwerp Overview

Ghent is the 3rd largest city in Belgium with just over 260,000 people. Hundreds of years ago, Ghent was considered to be one of the largest and most important cities in all of Europe . The city was massively wealthy in past centuries and it is still apparent today, being such a well-preserved city. It is one of the largest port cities in Belgium.

It is known for its belfry, churches, Gravensteen Castle , and its public squares. The three towers are Sint-Niklaas church , Sint-Bavo church , and the Belfry, and are iconic features of the city. The city has been a university city for centuries and still has 1/4th of its population being students.

Antwerp is the largest city proper in Belgium with 525,000 residents. Antwerp has been known as a port city for centuries. Today, the Port of Antwerp is the second-largest port in Europe and one of the largest in the world. The port brought in massive wealth to the merchants and people of Antwerp which is why the main square is so grand, much like Brussels.

Antwerp is also known as being the “ Diamond Capital of the World ”. Roughly 84% of all rough diamonds pass through its diamond district which brought over 16 billion dollars into the city’s GDP.  

Places to See

The Gravensteen , or “The Castle of the Counts”, is a large castle dating back to 1180.

Saint Bravos Cathedral is a Gothic cathedral that dates back to the 1200s.

The Belfry of Ghent is a large bell tower in the center of the city. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Saint Nicholas’ Church began construction in the 13th century.

The area around St. Michael’s Bridge is one of the most picturesque parts of the city.

Cathedral of Our Lady Antwerp is a Roman Catholic cathedral that is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Antwerp Town Hall was completed in 1565 and is known for its Renaissance-style architecture.

Het Steen is a medieval fortress that is Antwerp’s oldest building.

Grote Markt is the central square in Antwerp. It is known for its beautiful buildings and the events that are held there.

Like any city in Belgium, Ghent has fantastic chocolate, waffles, fries, and beer. Among some of the best traditional sweets that you must try while in Ghent are “Brussels’ Bread”, “Butter Crips”, “Cuberdons”, |Gaufre”, “Mastel”, and “Speculoos”. Other than the sweets, Ghent also offers some of the best local foods in Europe such as “Anguille au vert”, “Canniable”, “Waterzooi”, “Sirop de Liege”, “ Tomates aux crevettes grimes “, and of course “ Croquettes aux crevettes grises “, all of which serve as the perfect example of how exquisite the Belgian cuisine is.

The traditional foods found in Antwerp are very similar to those found in Ghent, in part because Antwerp and Ghent are less than an hour from each other. Frites are also very popular in Antwerp. Belgians just love their frites. Coffee in Antwerp is some of the best in Europe because of the Port of Antwerp. You can find a great cup of coffee anywhere you go in the city. Be sure to try some of the local breweries while you’re here.

Getting Around

The center of Ghent is full of sights to see and they are all rather close to each other which makes walking your best option for exploring. As for public transportation, you can pick between the tramlines or the buses to get around. You will want to utilize some form of public transportation to see sights like Gravensteen. A fun way to see the city is by taking a boat ride through the city’s waterways. Ghent is also a great city to rent a bike and go out exploring. The Ghent city website gives you ideas of the best routes to take around the city while on a bike.

Antwerp is, for the most part, a walkable city. Walking or biking along the Scheldt is a great idea. Biking in Antwerp is a great way to explore the city. You can use the city’s public bikes using mobile apps to unlock and put the bikes back in the pickup stations. There are over 100 public bike stations scattered throughout the city. Public transportation is 3 Euros per ride or 8 Euros for 24-hours. You can also get the Antwerp City Card which gives you use of public transportation along with access to 17 museums, the churches, and the De Koninck brewery.

As a city with many university students, Ghent has a pretty lively nightlife. Thursday nights are considered to be the best night to go out in Ghent. The area around the Korenmarkt has a high concentration of bars and pubs, making it the best place to start your night off in Ghent. If you want to go to a bar to try some authentic Belgian beers, you should try Trollekelder . An interesting bar that can get a little rowdier is Charleton . Kompass Nightclub is one of the best nightclubs in Ghent but it is located outside of the city center so make sure you figure out your transportation before you start to drink too much.

Antwerp has a rather young population, partly because of the number of universities here. There is no shortage of bars and pubs in Antwerp. The city arguably has the best nightlife in all of Belgium. There are many bars with live music or casual bars to just chat with a few friends. There is also a great club scene here. IKON Antwerp and Café d’Anvers are two of the best club scenes in the city. Café d’Anvers is especially unique because it is in a 16th-century monastery, in the middle of Antwerp’s red-light district.

Brussels , the capital of Belgium, is full of impressive sights to explore.

Antwerp is a major port city with beautiful architecture and is known for its blend of modern and historic architecture.

Bruges , often called “the Venice of the North”, is known for its beautiful bridges and canals.

Rotterdam is a little more than 30 minutes away from Antwerp by train. Rotterdam is the largest has the largest port in Europe.

Ghent is a university city and is known for being a cultural hub.

Sint-Niklaas is home to the largest market square in Belgium. It is only 30 minutes from Antwerp.

If you are deciding between Ghent and Antwerp, you are also probably looking into Bruges and Brussels . Both of these cities are definitely worth considering.

Ghent and Antwerp are two of the largest cities in Belgium. Ghent has a medieval city center with impressive bell towers and waterways throughout the city. Antwerp is a larger city known for being the 2nd largest port in all of Europe and for having a unique blend of modern and historic architecture.

If you want to see a more traditional Belgian city with the vibe of a smaller city, Ghent is the choice for you. If you want to see a larger city with better nightlife, you will want to visit Antwerp. Since the cities are less than an hour apart from each other, it would be quite feasible to take a day trip from either city to the other.

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Ghent Or Antwerp: Which City To Stay In For 2 Or 3 Days?

When traveling in Belgium, visitors often ask whether they should choose Ghent or Antwerp for a 2-3 day stay. Both cities are in Flanders, the Dutch-speaking region of Belgium, both port cities on the Scheldt river.

Which of Ghent or Antwerp is a better choice for a short stay? While the two cities are only an hour apart by train, both have strong touristic appeal. Antwerp is a larger city and is home to key Renaissance Flemish architecture and art. Ghent has a pretty medieval old town and scenic canals, and hosts a world-famous 15th-century painting. While many travelers choose Ghent for its picturesque sights, others prefer Antwerp for its diversity and great shopping and dining.

Ghent and Antwerp are two of the Belgium “Big Four” cities – which also include Bruges and Brussels. While Bruges is generally considered the main touristic highlight, Ghent and Antwerp also have a lot to offer (perhaps more) and are much less overrun by tourists. Antwerp and Ghent have populations of roughly 500K and 250K.

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Ghent or Antwerp: what travelers say

• Ghent is a very attractive city with many picturesque medieval facades, a castle, and nice squares. The historic center is compact and can be visited in a short time. It’s a clean, quaint, laid back town travelers like to stay in. It’s not nearly as touristy as Bruges – see this other post
• Antwerp has more of a big city vibe, is more industrial and modern, but doesn’t have Ghent’s charm and scenic appeal. However, the city has a lot to offer including great museums worth seeing, a historic center, fashion stores, and an attractive waterfront along the Scheldt river.
• Travelers generally feel either Ghent or Antwerp is a good choice for a 4-night stay. Some choose to spend 2 nights in each city. Some choose to stay in Ghent a few days also to enjoy the city’s beautiful lighting at night.
• Travelers who like Ghent say half a day is enough to visit the city’s main sights – such as the guild houses on the river, the castle, and the Mystic Lamb altarpiece – as they are all close to each other. 
• Antwerp, on the other hand, may deserver more time. The city’s attractions include canal boat trips, visiting a castle, art nouveau architecture, modern design, fashion, old master art, and diamond trade history.
• Ghent has many restaurants with terraces alongside the canals, another major appeal of the city. The city also has large universities and rich student life.
• Since Antwerp has a population double the size of Ghent, locals generally outnumber tourists when visiting places, which is not always the case in Ghent. Antwerp’s center is also more spread out than Ghent’s so it requires more than a day to visit thoroughly.
• Antwerp is more cosmopolitan than Ghent and Bruges, more authentic and less touristy. It also feels more open and welcoming to visitors.
• Some travelers feel Ghent is very similar to Bruges through less crowded and more authentic, less of an open-air museum. Antwerp has a very different, more real-life feel than both Ghent and Bruges.

Ghent or Antwerp: access & transportation

Traveling between Amsterdam and Antwerp is easy and fast by high-speed Thalys train or by the frequent but slower intercity trains. Getting to and from London is also a breeze by going through Brussels and catching the Eurostar.

Antwerp and Ghent are roughly the same distance from Brussels by train – about 50 minutes for Antwerp, about 40 for Ghent. Likewise, Ghent is roughly as far from Antwerp as it is from Bruges, so it’s a good base for visiting both. Day tripping from Ghent to Antwerp or vice-versa is feasible.

In Antwerp, you can walk from the Antwerpen Centraal train station to the historical center, a 15-minute walk along the main shopping street (Meir) lines with beautiful facades. Alternatively, you can take the metro line 2, 3, or 15 to Groenplaats.

Flanders mostly has busy roads and larger metro areas vs vast countryside, so renting a car is usually not a convenient option for visiting Belgian cities.

Both Antwerp and Ghent have an excellent network of trams, buses, and underground metro. As mentioned, Ghent is also very walkable.

Ghent or Antwerp: vibe & people

Compared to Antwerp, Ghent s a lot smaller and more compact and can be visited mostly on foot. Thus, Ghent may be a better choice to stay in for a very short break (e.g. 1 day).

Antwerp is a port city, not as quaint as Ghent. Though it’s more spread out, most of the key sights are also within walking distance. The Antwerp main square has the most guild houses in Europe.

To some travelers, Antwerp can feel a bit shady after dark – its special atmosphere is the setting for Zone Stad, the most popular Flemish crime TV drama. However, Antwerp is as safe as other European cities of its size – avoid the red-light district, train stations, and drug-related areas at night.

While Ghent is nice and centrally located in Belgium, travelers who have spent time in Bruges may choose Antwerp for a different scenery – it’s also a beautiful city with lots of restaurants, bars, and attractive buildings.

As mentioned, Ghent is somewhat similar to Bruges, however it’s larger (2x), more modern, living and functioning, and not as tourist-overrun – although boat trips on the canals as just as crowded.

Thus, some travelers see Ghent as a good middle option between Bruges and Antwerp – less touristy than the former, more scenic than the latter. It has a gorgeous cathedral, pretty canals, and pleasant strolls. Travelers generally agree Ghent is much more picturesque than Antwerp.

Antwerp, however, has more sights and activities than both Ghent and Bruges, and by far the best shopping opportunities of the three – some even say of all Belgium.

Ghent or Antwerp: sights & culture

As mentioned before, Antwerp has a lot to see and do, including an attractive old center with cobblestoned streets and nice squares, great historical and modern architecture, impressive museums, and scenic river walks.

The Het Steen medieval fortress on the Scheldt river bank is impressive. The 14th-16th-century Cathedral of Our Lady is a grand Gothic building with masterpieces from Ruben and other painters.

In the old town, the Grote Markt central square and the Stadhuis (City Hall) building are beautiful examples of Renaissance architecture with Flemish and Italian influences. The Stadhuis is surrounded by numerous other 16th-century colorful Flemish guildhalls (historic trade houses).

Antwerp also has significant Art Nouveau architecture with a unique concentration of some of the best-preserved buildings in Europe on Cogels-Oyslei street and the Zurenborg neighborhood. The ornate Antwerp train station is also worth exploring.

Noteworthy museums in Antwerp include the Rubens House Museum (17th century), the Ship Museum, the Plantin and Moretus museum (16th-century printing), the Koninklijk Museum Voor Schone Kunsten (a major art gallery), the ModeMuseum fashion museum.

Antwerp’s mainly orthodox Jewish Diamond Quarter is also worth a visit, the world’s largest diamond district with thousands of diamond brokers, merchants, and cutters and 4 diamond-trading exchanges.

The renowned Royal Academy of Fine Arts , along with the city’s dozens of fashion stores, also make Antwerp an important fashion center

Ghent also has a well-preserved medieval historic center and a stunning 10th-century castle, the Gravensteen, with impressive panoramic views. One of the main attractions in the old center is the scenic Graslei , a line of guild houses bordering the former medieval port on the Leie river.

Ghent’s touristic highlights include three high medieval towers , the 90-meter Gothic Saint-Bavo Cathedral , the 90+-meter Het Belfort belfry , and the Gothic style 13th century Saint-Nicolas church .

The Saint Bavo Cathedral hosts the famed 15th altarpiece signed by acclaimed Flemish artist Jan Van Eyck, the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb , one of the 10 most important easel art pieces in Europe. In the summer, expect a long wait to see it.

Ghent also has a few great museums such as the excellent Museum of Fine Arts, which has Bosh and Rubens paintings, and the Contemporary art gallery SMAK.

In addition to the historic center and its impressive architecture, and the unique art offering, canal-side strolls and boat rides are a major attraction in Ghent.

Ghent or Antwerp: food & nightlife

Travelers overall agree Antwerp has a great choice of bars and restaurants in various areas of the city, including along the river around the cruise terminal – such as Het Zuiderterras (glass building) and Noorderterras (more expensive) – and around the Grote Markt.

The area around the cathedral has live and historic restaurants and bars. One example is the Elfde Gebod (Eleventh Commandment) with its unique decor (for a meal or a beer). The De Groote Witte Arend, just South of the cathedral, also offers Belgian food at reasonable prices.

Het Gebaar, next to the botanical garden, is a very good restaurant, though obtaining a reservation is not easy. The Jane is also a beautiful place but very hard to get into.

Travelers often recommend the De Vagant, Kulminator, Den Engel, Paters Vaetje, ‘t Oud Arsenaal and Bier Central, and ‘t Pakhuis brewery (very large bar/restaurant). The Jenever cafe has over 200 Belgian types of jenever liqueur (a local specialty).

The trendy ‘Eilandje’ neighborhood North of the city also as excellent bars and cafés. Beer Passion Weekend is a great event on Groenplaats (a secondary square) for tasting all sorts of beer.

In Ghent, the canals are lined with relaxed bars, cafes, and chocolate shops. The town also has its fair share of good restaurants, such as the reputable Oak, Vrijmoed, and De Vitrine. Belga Queen and Pakhuis are quite glamorous.

Other good places for a meal include House of Elliott, Roots, Volta, J.E.F., Benoit de Witte (in Ouwegem 20km), and Fleur de Lin (Zele – 30km). Waterzooi stew is a popular local dish. Places like De Gekroonde Hoofden or Amadeus offer all-you-can-eat spare ribs.

Ghent is a university town so it has many students and young professionals, resulting in a lively nightlife, namely around Koornmarkt, Overpoortstraat, Oude Beestenmarkt, and Oude Beestenmarkt. Thursday night is typically the best time for going out.

Ghent or Antwerp: shopping

Antwerp has a major shopping street (Meir) often considered to have some of the best shopping in Belgium. The shopping areas in Antwerp primarily cater to locals rather not tourists, which makes it attractive to travelers.

The main shopping areas in Antwerp include the historic city center, the Meir area, Quartier Latin, Wilde Zee, the Fashion District, Het Zuid, and the Station District.

Ghent or Antwerp: lodging

In Antwerp, many travelers choose to stay near the Antwerp Central train station, making it convenient for traveling to and from Paris or Amsterdam or taking a day trip to Ghent.

Antwerp’s train station is not in a seedy area and is adjacent to the Jewish quarter where a lot of the diamond processing places are located. The area is a short walk from the town center.

There are many other hotels of different categories around Antwerp central station. All are conveniently located, allowing you to quickly drop your luggage and walk to the city center for a day visit.

The Ibis Budget is often mentioned as being an affordable, clean and modern, albeit relatively basic option. It’s a short tram ride or a 15-20 minute walk away from the Grote Markt main square.

In general, hotels located in the area between the Italielei boulevard that wraps around the old town, and the river are within walking distance of the center and have restaurants and bars around them.

Travelers often suggest Hotel De Witte Lelie , Hotel ‘t Sandt , and Hotel Rubens Grote Markt , all small hotels in the historical center of Antwerpen.

Travelers also frequently recommend the Hilton Antwerp Old Town , which is a 5-minute walk from the Grote Markt and boutique shopping areas. Old bars with a great atmosphere surround the hotel.

Lodging in Ghent is generally relatively affordable due to the large student population.

Travelers enjoy Hotel Harmony in Ghent, easy to access from the train station by taking tram number 1 to Gravensteen castle followed by a 2-minute walk.

The Ghent River Hotel is well-rated due to its great river views and the very short walk to the city center. The “deluxe” room on the first floor overlooks the river. The hotel has affordable prices. Outside is a cobbled bridge and a nice river walk.

The Novotel Gent Centrum is centrally located with affordable rooms were around $120 without breakfast.

The Carlton Hotel in Ghent is often recommended for its hearty breakfasts and helpful staff. The Ghent Marriott is also well-regarded by many travelers.

Other lesser-known, popular places are the De Waterzooi B&B across from the Gravenstein castle, praised for its great food and atmosphere, and the Snooz Inn B&B , a smaller place with positive mentions.

Ghent or Antwerp: day trips

If driving between Ghent and Antwerp, you can stop by St Niklaas which has one of Europe’s largest town squares (with nice cafés).

Ostend, on the North Sea coast, is a 40-minute train ride from Ghent. You can then catch the coast tram (kuustram) and explore different coastal towns, namely De Haan which has a pretty beach and a long seafront promenade. You can also visit the German Atlantik Wall museum.

From Antwerp, you can of course take day trips to Brussels, Leuven, etc (under 1 hour by train). Lier, a nice little town with many canals often referred to as “little Bruges”, is also within day trip distance.

*** Photo credits: (1) Featured: “ Ghent ” ( CC BY 2.0 ) by  interbeat (2) “ Antwerp city centre ” ( CC BY 2.0 ) by  quinet (2b) “ Korenlei, Ghent ” ( CC BY 2.0 ) by  Dimitris Graffin (3) “ Graslei, Ghent ” ( CC BY 2.0 ) by  Dimitris Graffin (4) “ Entering the castle ” ( CC BY 2.0 ) by  Pedro Nuno Caetano (5) “ Gravensteen, Ghent ” ( CC BY 2.0 ) by  Dimitris Graffin (6) “ Ghent at night ” ( CC BY 2.0 ) by  Naval S (7) “ Gilded shopping center in Antwerp ” ( CC BY 2.0 ) by  Falling Outside The Normal Moral Constraints (8) “ Veldstraat, Ghent ” ( CC BY 2.0 ) by  Dimitris Graffin (9) “ Antwerp train station ” ( CC BY 2.0 ) by  MatthieuBout

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About the author.

Jesse Massard

I'm Jesse, I've lived in and traveled to many different countries, and each time around I've done tons of research on the different places I could visit. I've always loved comparing cities before (and after) see them. Apparently I'm not alone, so I decided to make a website out of it and share my experiences and research. All packed?

• Travel Planning Guide

A Travel Price Comparison for Belgium Ghent vs. Antwerp for Nightlife, Attractions, Food, and Old Town

• Pros & Cons
• Attractions
• Backpackers
• Public Transit
• Walkability
• More time in Ghent or Antwerp?
• Which is Cheaper, Ghent or Antwerp? (Travel Cost Comparison)

Which is Bigger, Ghent or Antwerp?

• When to Visit Ghent or Antwerp?

Should you visit Ghent or Antwerp?

Which is cheaper to visit which is more expensive for vacation.

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Ghent and Antwerp. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Ghent is a high energy, cultural, and historic city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Antwerp is a cultural, historical, and youthful port city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Ghent and Antwerp: Pros and Cons

• Popular museums and historical sights
• Active nightlife
• Family-friendly
• Good for couples and romance
• Good for backpackers and budget travelers
• Good public transit
• Impressive beauty
• Public transit not as usable

Is there more to do in Ghent or Antwerp?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Antwerp than Ghent. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Antwerp is very popular for its shopping and big city activities, while Ghent attracts visitors for its food, nightlife, and impressive beauty. Ghent is more touristy than Antwerp and is known for its medieval buildings, large squares, and weekly markets Antwerp is famous for its historic train station, festive chocolate shops, decadent waffle stands, and down-to-earth old town. It is also well known for Antwerpen-Centraal.

How is Ghent different from Antwerp?

Which is better for a holiday.

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Antwerp and Ghent. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ghent or Antwerp?

Both Ghent and Antwerp have high quality landmarks and museums for visitors.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Ghent. The city has many different sights that are concentrated in a compact area. Make sure you check out the Cathedral of St. Bavo, The Fortress of Gravensteen, and The Belfry. The audio tour at Gravensteen really brings the history to life and makes for an enjoyable activity.

Antwerp offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city has a number of cathedrals, museums, and art galleries that are fun to explore. The history and culture of the town is best experienced by wandering the streets and soaking up the architecture.

Is the Food Better in Ghent or Antwerp? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ghent is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Ghent . The food scene is diverse and international, but there are also many local dishes and flavors that you should try. Pas de Rouge is a local cheese and mastel is a local bread. Ganda ham is also a popular meat that is dried and salted. In additional to traditional restaurants, you'll find almost any international cuisine that you could want.

Antwerp is becoming an appealing option for foodies. People with a sweet tooth will enjoy the chocolates and biscuits that make this city famous. You'll also find plenty of fries and casual dining options to choose from. Local favorites include mussels and fish and chips, and of course, you must try the beer!

Is Ghent or Antwerp Better for Nightlife?

Ghent is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Ghent is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. With its young student population, you'll find plenty of lively bars and clubs around town. There are many places where you can party or dance into the early hours of the morning and some of the best places are around Oude Beestenmarkt, De Overpoort, and De Vlasmarkt. There's also the famous Ghent Festival every July.

Many people head to Antwerp for the nightlife scene. With its large student population and young vibe, you'll find an active nightlife scene around town. Many of the the clubs and bars are concentrated in the docklands, but you'll also find places to hang out everywhere around town.

Is Ghent or Antwerp Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the high quality old town areas in both Ghent and Antwerp.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Ghent. The medieval old town follows along the canal and offers great architecture and a unique atmosphere.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Antwerp. The old city has a long running history and many unique spots to explore. At the heart of the old town is Grote Markt, which is surrounded by beautiful buildings and cobblestone streets. There are a diversity of restaurants including local cuisines, Italian restaurants, and a number of different ethnic food. You'll also find local chocolate shops, waffle vendors, and ice cream.

Is the Shopping Better in Ghent or Antwerp?

Antwerp is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping opportunities.

Antwerp is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has become known for its fashion scene. The main shopping street is Meir, which is where you'll find a variety of European fashion chains. It's also fun to buy chocolates, art, or other souvenirs around town. You'll find both locals and tourists perusing the main shopping areas around town.

Ghent is well-known for its shopping. The city has the largest pedestrian shopping area in Belgium, making it a great place to explore on foot. The city has several different shopping areas which each have their own style and personality. You'll find everything from major European brands to local boutiques and street markets.

Is Ghent or Antwerp Better for Families?

Both Ghent and Antwerp are nice family-friendly destinations.

Ghent is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a fun atmosphere with kid-friendly restaurants and a number of attractions that appeal to all ages. Kids and adults alike will enjoy exploring Gravensteen, which is the "Castle of Counts". You can also take a boat tour, rent bikes, or head to one of the town's playgrounds so the kids can burn off some energy.

Antwerp is a family-friendly city. Favorite kid-friendly activities around town include taking a ride on the Ferris Wheel, going to the local zoo, or exploring the indoor play area Plopsa Station. Kids will also enjoy exploring the underground canals or taking a boat ride. Chocolate lovers will have fun checking out the many chocolate shops around town.

Is Ghent or Antwerp Better for Couples?

Ghent is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Couples visit Ghent frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It makes a great weekend getaway with a diverse restaurant scene, nice hotels, and plenty of historic attractions that you can explore.

Antwerp is a good city for couples to visit. The city has a wonderful café culture with great restaurants and beautiful neighborhoods to explore. There are many great restaurants as well as plenty of shopping opportunities.

Is Ghent or Antwerp Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Ghent and Antwerp are nice destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Ghent. The city has a number of hostels to choose from as well as a young vibe with a large student population. Many people overlook Ghent, but it feels more genuine than nearby Bruges, which attracts the larger tourist crowds.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Antwerp. With a handful of hostels and a variety of free activities, this is an affordable place to visit. It's often overlooked by backpackers so those that visit will be rewarded. It has a vibe of authenticity which is great for backpacker's who are a bit jaded from the tourism scene.

Is Ghent or Antwerp Better for Students?

Ghent is an unbeatable place for students. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Students come from all over the world to visit Ghent . The city is very popular with international students so it has a young and energetic vibe with plenty to do throughout the year.

Antwerp is a great city to visit as a student. There's a good student culture and a lot of activities that give the city a fun and youthful vibe. It's a relatively big city with a lot of transportation connections, so it makes a great base for exploring other areas.

Is Ghent or Antwerp Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Ghent is an unbeatable place for its public transit. Also, Antwerp is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors in Ghent can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. Buses and trams travel to most parts of the city and are convenient and efficient.

While Antwerp offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are both tram and bus lines around town. The city also has a large and impressive train station with many connections, making it a good base for exploring other areas.

Is Ghent or Antwerp a more walkable city?

Ghent and Antwerp both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Ghent is very walkable. The area's with the most tourist attractions are generally walkable.

Antwerp is a very walkable city. The old town can be comfortably explored on foot, particularly the area around Grote Markt.

For even more information, also check out Is Ghent Worth Visiting? and Is Antwerp Worth Visiting? .

Should I spend more time in Antwerp or Ghent?

How long in ghent or antwerp.

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Ghent and Antwerp. In our opinion, Ghent has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Ghent than Antwerp . However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Ghent than Antwerp. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Ghent, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Ghent than Antwerp. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Ghent that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ghent than Antwerp if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Ghent.

• How many days in Ghent or Antwerp? Ideal Length of Stay Ghent 1-3   Antwerp   1-3

One day in Ghent or Antwerp?

In Ghent, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Antwerp, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this vibrant destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the shopping. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Ghent or Antwerp?

In Ghent, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Ghent has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Antwerp. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Ghent or Antwerp?

Ghent is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Antwerp is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Antwerp. Lots of people come for the shopping. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Ghent or Antwerp?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ghent. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Ghent. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find food and shopping around the authentic destination of Antwerp. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the shopping. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium , The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium , The Best Tours for Seniors to Belgium , and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Brussels .

Which place is cheaper, Antwerp or Ghent?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

• Ghent Prices Belgium Prices Antwerp Prices Belgium Prices
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day Ghent € 118 Antwerp € 123

The average daily cost (per person) in Ghent is €118, while the average daily cost in Antwerp is €123. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Ghent and Antwerp in more detail.

Accommodation

• Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person Ghent € 72 Antwerp € 71
• Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room Ghent € 144 Antwerp € 142

Compare Hotels in Ghent and Antwerp

Looking for a hotel in Ghent or Antwerp? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Ghent

Hotels in Antwerp

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.

Local Transportation

• Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. Ghent € 19 Antwerp € 12

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ghent

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Ghent:

• Departure Private Transfer from Ghent City to Brussels Airport by Luxury Van: $168
• Ostend <-> Luxembourg transfer (1 to 8 places): $235
• Ostend Airport (OST) to Brussels - Arrival Private Transfer: $40
• Private Roundtrip Transfer Ostend Airport to Brussels : $79
• PrivateTransfer from Ostend Bruges Airport(OST) to Zeebrugge Port: $87
• Transfer Ghent <-> Luxembourg (1 to 8 places): $235
• Transfer Ghent <-> SPA (1 to 8 Places): $176

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Antwerp

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Antwerp:

• Arrival Private Transfer Antwerp Airport ANR to Antwerp by Sedan: $69
• Private Transfer from Antwerp to Bruges or ZeeBrugge By Luxury car: $142
• Private Departure Transfer from Antwerp to Brussels By luxury car: $153
• Private Arrival Transfer from Antwerp to Brussels By luxury car: $164
• Antwerp Shuttle Transfer <-> Schipol Airport Amsterdam (1 to 8 Places): $176

Is it cheaper to fly into Ghent or Antwerp?

Prices for flights to both Antwerp and Ghent change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.

• Food Meals for one day Ghent € 35 Antwerp € 39

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Ghent

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Ghent.

• Walking Food Tour in Ghent: $83
• Walking food tour: Introduction to Ghent through food: $104
• Small-Group Food Tour in Ghent by Bike: $160

Entertainment

• Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc. Ghent € 8.64 Antwerp € 8.21

Tours and Activities in Ghent

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Ghent are as follows:

• First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.24
• Gastronomic Walking Tour of Gent - Tasters included: $3.29
• Historical Walking Tour: Legends of Gent: $3.29
• Ghent city tour: audio guide in your smartphone: $5.40
• Hidden A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
• Escape Game and Tour: $7.02
• Ghent Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $7.16
• Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $7.33
• Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour: $8.10
• Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $8.10
• Hidden A Self-Guided Audio Tour Of The Flemish City: $9.99
• Medieval Center Guided Boat Tour: $11

Tours and Activities in Antwerp

Here are a few actual costs in Antwerp for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

• Historical Walking Tour in the Old City: $2.58
• Evening Walking Tour: The Dark Side of Antwerp: $3.29
• Historical Walking Tour: Legends of Antwerp: $3.29
• City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.47
• Antwerp Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $7.16
• Antwerp In App Audio Tour : Belgian Port City (EN, DU): $7.59
• Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and City Tour: $8.10
• Walking Tour with Audioguide App: $8.10
• Walking Tour: Highlights of Antwerp: $17
• Alcohol Drinks for one day Ghent € 18 Antwerp € 18

Sample the Local Flavors in Ghent

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Ghent:

• Ghent Pub Trail : Pub crawl with interactive online game: $12
• Private Ghent Beer & Brewery Tour by a young local: $248

Sample the Local Flavors in Antwerp

Also in Antwerp, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

• Antwerp Pub Trail: Pub crawl with interactive online game: $12
• City Brewery De Koninck Interactive Tour: $17
• Antwerp Pub Crawl Walking Tour: $66
• Pub Crawl in the Historical City: $97

When comparing the travel costs between Ghent and Antwerp, we can see that Antwerp is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Ghent Expensive? and Is Antwerp Expensive? .

Antwerp has a larger population, and is about 99% larger than the population of Ghent. When comparing the sizes of Ghent and Antwerp, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Ghent or Antwerp?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Ghent or Antwerp in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Ghent and Antwerp. Many travelers come to Ghent for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Antwerp in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Ghent is around the same temperature as Antwerp. Typically, the summer temperatures in Ghent in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Antwerp averages at about 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Antwerp this time of the year. In Ghent, it's very sunny this time of the year. Ghent usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Antwerp during summer. Ghent gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Antwerp receives 202 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Ghent usually receives around the same amount of rain as Antwerp. Ghent gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

• Summer Average Temperatures July Ghent 17°C (63°F)   Antwerp   17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Ghent or Antwerp in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Ghent as well as Antwerp. Many visitors come to Ghent in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Antwerp for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Ghent is generally around the same temperature as Antwerp. Daily temperatures in Ghent average around 12°C (54°F), and Antwerp fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Ghent often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Antwerp. Ghent gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Antwerp receives 105 hours of full sun.

Ghent usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Antwerp. Ghent gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

• Autumn Average Temperatures October Ghent 12°C (54°F)   Antwerp   12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Ghent or Antwerp in the Winter?

Both Antwerp and Ghent are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Ghent for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Antwerp because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Antwerp can be very cold. Ghent can be very cold during winter. Ghent is around the same temperature as Antwerp in the winter. The daily temperature in Ghent averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Antwerp fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

Ghent usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Antwerp during winter. Ghent gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Antwerp receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Ghent usually receives around the same amount of rain as Antwerp. Ghent gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

• Winter Average Temperatures January Ghent 3°C (38°F)   Antwerp   3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Ghent or Antwerp in the Spring?

Both Antwerp and Ghent during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Ghent because of the natural beauty. Furthermore, the activities around the city are the main draw to Antwerp this time of year.

In the spring, Ghent is around the same temperature as Antwerp. Typically, the spring temperatures in Ghent in April average around 8°C (47°F), and Antwerp averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the spring, Ghent often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Antwerp. Ghent gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Antwerp receives 158 hours of full sun.

Ghent usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Antwerp. Ghent gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Antwerp receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

• Spring Average Temperatures April Ghent 8°C (47°F)   Antwerp   8°C (47°F)

Typical Weather for Antwerp and Ghent

Related articles for ghent, related articles for antwerp.

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• Activities, Day Trips, Things To Do, and Excursions

The Perfect 1, 2 or 3 Days in Antwerp Itinerary

Last Updated on February 22, 2024

by Lizzie Fitzgerald

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With so much to see and do, you can easily spend 1, 2 or 3 days in Antwerp exploring its trendy neighbourhoods and charming historical centre. This Antwerp itinerary includes everything from amazing museums and architectural gems to glittering jewels, the Grote Markt and its gorgeous central train station.

Home to Europe’s second-largest port, the cosmopolitan city is also famed for its fashion scene and fun nightlife. Although oft-overlooked in favour of Bruges, the ‘Diamond Capital of the World’ is certainly one of the best places to visit in Belgium.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Antwerp?

As the Flemish city has so much going for it, it can be hard to know how many days to spend in Antwerp. While a weekend is probably the perfect amount of time, you can see many of its main sights in just a day. Add an extra one and you can even fit in some fun day trips too!

1 day in Antwerp is just enough for you to see the historic centre, its giant Gothic cathedral and castle. Aside from admiring all its incredible architecture, you could also stop by a museum and experience some pounding nightlife.

With 2 days or a weekend in Antwerp, you can really get a grasp of its different sides by exploring its diamond district, fashion mile and fantastic food options. You can also fit in another museum, some more bars or check out its famous zoo if you fancy it!

As Belgium is quite small and easy to travel about, most people with 3 days head to either Brussels , Ghent or Bruges on their third day. All great options, each city has its own look, feel and identity for you to delve into.

Getting To & Around Antwerp

Located in the north of Belgium , not far from the Dutch border, Antwerp is well connected to the rest of the country and Europe as a whole. Once you arrive, you can walk almost everywhere or cycle and get the bus or tram if you need to.

While its small airport mainly caters to business travellers, a direct train whisks you to Brussels Airport in just half an hour. Set on the outskirts of the capital, it has daily flights to the rest of the EU as well as Africa, Asia and the USA. Amsterdam Airport Schiphol is another major transport hub that lies two hours away by train.

Besides being absolutely beautiful, Antwerp Central Station has hourly trains to Brussels, Ghent and Bruges . While the first two take around 45 minutes to an hour to reach, the latter lies almost two hours away. You can view train schedules here.

Other popular day trip options or arrival points by train include Amsterdam and Rotterdam across the border in the Netherlands. These respectively take roughly two hours and one hour to arrive at.

Although most of Antwerp’s main sites are within easy walking distance of one another, you can always hop on a bus or tram if you need to. For these, you can either buy tickets from vending machines at certain stops or in supermarkets and newsagents.

There is also an app you can use on your phone with contactless payments onboard also working if you don’t want to download it.

Another fun option is to rent a bike for the day or for a couple of hours and merrily cycle about its quaint old streets and historic centre!

1, 2 or 3-Day in Antwerp Itinerary

Day 1 – top attractions in antwerp.

On the first day of your trip to Antwerp, you’ll see most of its main sites and sample some of its exciting bars and nightlife! To learn more about the city, you can take a walking tour or this bike tour with a guide.

Antwerpen-Centraal Railway Station

If you arrive in Antwerp by train then you’re straight away in for an architectural treat. If not, then you definitely have to find the time to visit its spectacular station at some point! One of the most beautiful in the world, it exhibits an astounding mix of neo-Renaissance and Art Nouveau styles.

After ogling at its elegant entrance hall and fetching facade, make your way slowly to the Grote Markt, some twenty minutes’ walk away.

The Grote Markt

The city’s central square, the Grote Markt is located right in its historic heart. Lined by sixteenth-century guildhalls with exquisite facades, it also contains Antwerp’s ravishing Renaissance Town Hall.

In its centre is the 1887 Brabo Fountain which depicts the local legend after which the city is possibly named. In any case, its bronze sculpture of Brabo tossing a giant’s hand into the River Scheldt certainly makes for some fabulous photos.

The Cathedral of Our Lady

Towering above the square is the ginormous Gothic-style spire of the Antwerp Cathedral – known as the Cathedral of Our Lady.

The tallest church in the Low Countries, it stands 123 metres in height but has never actually been ‘completed’. Built between 1352 and 1521, its enormous interior hosts a lot of noteworthy tombs and impressive religious artworks.

To see yet more statues and icons, head to the atmospheric Elfde Gebod bar right next to it. It has a great selection of beers, a cool inside and lovely views of the cathedral from its terrace outside.

After your beer break, head down to the riverfront to see Het Steen; the oldest building in all of Antwerp. Lying alongside the Scheldt, the small but sturdy thirteenth-century fortress contains a visitor centre and interactive exhibits on the city’s age-old past.

Very well-preserved, it lies at the start of a scenic riverwalk which takes you down to our next site: the amazing MAS museum.

The MAS Museum

In contrast to the castle, MAS is an arresting feat of modern architecture. Instantly recognisable from its remarkable red sandstone and glass panel exterior, it towers sixty metres over the river and harbour below.

Dedicated to Antwerp and its connection to the world, the museum’s exhibits cover everything from international shipping and trade to art, culture and history around Europe and even further afield. From its observation deck, you can enjoy some of the best views of the city stretching away before you.

Enjoy Antwerp’s Nightlife

As Antwerp is known for its nightlife and has a youthful, dynamic population, and if you have only 24 hours in Antwerp, make sure to hit up some bars or clubs once the sun starts to set.

Two classics are Den Engel and Paters Vaetje as they both boast charming old-style interiors, and have lots of beers to try and lie alongside the Grote Markt. De Vagant is another great option if you want to sip some strong Belgian jenevers.

After a couple of drinks and some live music at De Muze, you can dance the night away at notorious clubs like Ampere and IKON. If you only have this one day in Antwerp, you’ve certainly packed a lot of different things in!

Day 2 – The Diamond District, Museums & Antwerp Zoo

If you have 2 days in Antwerp, you’ll have the time to explore a couple more neighbourhoods, stop by some more museums and maybe visit the zoo if you feel like it! If you’re planning on spending more time than just Antwerp in a day, then you’re sure to love all of these activities on the second day!

The Diamond District

Set right next to the train station are the countless jewellery shops and sparkling windows of the Diamond District. Incredibly enough, 85% of the world’s rough diamonds pass through this area each and every year.

Hundreds of workshops and brokers operate here with the lavish industry mainly being dominated by the city’s Jewish, Jain, Armenian and Lebanese communities.

Aside from gazing at glittering gems and admiring intricately crafted necklaces, rings and earrings, you can take tours to learn more about how diamonds are cut, polished and valued.

One of the most famous shopping streets in all Belgium, Meir stretches all the way from the train station to the town hall. Besides being bordered by tons of chic shops and brand stores, it takes you past some interesting historic sights with plenty of beautiful old buildings lining the route.

An absolute must for fashionistas, its big brands encompass everyone from Nike and Ralph Lauren to Dior and Zara. You can always head inside the Stadsfeestzaal for yet more upscale shops in an opulent old building or to some of the nearby streets which house Chanel and Louis Vuitton.

Midway along Meir is the quaint old Rubenshuis (Rubens House); the former home and workshop of the famous Flemish master. Now open as a museum, it displays numerous paintings by Peter Paul Rubens as well as some sculptures, tapestries and period furniture too.

The look of the 1610 Italian-style villa, courtyard and gardens is almost as impressive as all the arresting artworks themselves. Its well-done exhibits also explain more about his life, times and the country’s rich artistic heritage.

Red Star Line Museum

Another museum that is well worth checking out if you have the time and energy is the Red Star Line Museum. Located near MAS, it shines a light on the more than three million people who passed through Antwerp on their way to new lives in the US.

Through displays, photos and videos, it presents the history of the Belgian shipping company in an enthralling manner.

Antwerpen-Noord

If you want to see a different side of the city entirely, then head to the area directly north of the station. Amazingly diverse, it has everything from Afghan restaurants and Afro-Caribbean stores to Turkish kebab shops, Tibetan cafes and even a small Chinatown.

A fun place to explore, the multicultural neighbourhood is often overlooked, even by visitors who have more than a day or two on their visit to Antwerp.

Unlike the Diamond District and Meir, it is very down-to-earth with each little local Indian, Iraqi or Vietnamese restaurant appearing even more appealing than the last!

Antwerp Zoo

Also located right next to the train station is the historic Antwerp Zoo which is impressively one of the oldest in the world. Visiting this zoo is one of the best things to do in Antwerp.

Founded back in 1843, its spacious enclosures now house over 6,000 animals of more than 1,160 different species. While ambling about, you can therefore see lions and jaguars alongside elephants, giraffes and gorillas.

Its elaborate Art Nouveau buildings also contain an aquarium and restaurant while penguin feeding sessions and sea lion shows are put on daily.

If you want to see as much as possible of Antwerp in 2 days, it is well worth including the zoo on your list of things to do.

Day 3 – Day Trip to Bruges, Brussels or Ghent

As most travellers usually feel they’ve seen enough after spending 2 days during their trip to Antwerp, the third is usually spent exploring some of the enticing destinations nearby.

While Mechelen, Lier and Aalst are all attractive options, the larger and more famous cities of Ghent, Bruges and Brussels have much more to see and do. Some people also like to hop across the nearby border to see Rotterdam’s amazing modern architecture.

Although it takes a bit longer to reach than the other day trip options, Bruges is undoubtedly the most beautiful city in Belgium. After arriving at its station from Antwerp via Ghent, just follow the crowds towards its historic centre, some fifteen minutes’ walk away.

Visible for countless kilometres around, the enormous Belfry of Bruges rises dramatically above the Grote Markt at its foot. Aside from snapping some photos of the 83-metre-tall tower, you can also clamber up it for some lovely views over the city’s rooftops down below.

Other than checking out the pretty townhouses and lively restaurants lining its main square, you can make your way to the Basilica of the Holy Blood nearby. Besides exhibiting some exquisite architecture, it boasts a very important relic that is said to contain the blood of Jesus Christ.

In addition to wandering about its picturesque cobbled streets and canals, many visitors stop by the excellent Groeninge Museum for its many artistic treasures by Flemish masters. Thanks to its arresting aesthetic and ambience, the ‘Venice of the North’ definitely makes for a memorable day trip if you have the time.

Another popular place people fit into their visit to Antwerp is Ghent; a gorgeous university city that has a small but scenic centre. Thanks to its sizeable student population, it also has a much livelier feel with some great nightlife being on offer.

At its heart are three centuries-old towers that are all lined up in a row one after the other. From St. Michael’s Bridge, you can enjoy the best view of their soaring spires rising up before you. The Belfry of Ghent and St. Bavo’s Cathedral also offer epic panoramas over the city from up high.

The latter also houses the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb – an incredible 1432 altarpiece made by Jan van Eyck. More statues and religious artworks can be seen in the cavernous Saint Nicholas’ Church right next to it.

Just a stone’s throw from its three prominent landmarks are the charming Graslei and Korenlei quays down by the canal. As well as admiring the fine old buildings along beside them, you can sit at a cafe’s patio for a coffee or beer or take a romantic boat trip along the river.

These lead to the hulking great Gravensteen Castle which has protected the city since the tenth century.

After all the sightseeing and days spent exploring Antwerp, you can relax with a strong Belgian beer at the Dulle Griet. The traditional bar has more than 500 local brews for you to get through in a cosy setting before heading on to some other fun nightlife spots nearby.

The capital of the country, Brussels is an increasingly attractive city to explore that only lies forty minutes from Antwerp by train. Perhaps most known for housing the European institutions, the multicultural metropolis also has some awesome attractions and neighbourhoods to check out.

Its standout site is without doubt the Grand Place – the absolutely spellbinding square right at its heart. Hemmed in on all sides by gold-clad guild houses, its old cobbles lie just a short walk from another iconic attraction. Known as Manneken Pis, the somewhat unusual yet endearing statue depicts a small boy peeing.

After grabbing a waffle, you can amble around the oldest part of Brussels, Les Marolles, and the chic, expensive Sablon. Located right next to one another, they contain countless antique shops and some impressive old churches. A fun flea market also takes place every day at the former.

Also within walking distance is the regal Royal Palace of Brussels. Here you can take some pics of its fantastic facade and wander around the pretty park in front of it. A couple of superb art and music museums also lie alongside it as does the magnificent Mont des Arts viewpoint.

To finish the day off, head down the hill to the world-famous Delirium Cafe. Always packed with locals and tourists, it remarkably has over 2,000 beers for you to try. An absolute must, its lively ambience is sure to entice you back to Brussels, Antwerp and Belgium again!

Where to Stay in Antwerp

Citybox Antwerp – Mid-range travellers visiting the city of Antwerp will love this centrally-located 3-star hotel. They have a number of lovely rooms to choose from and an excellent location for exploring all this Belgian city has to offer.

Hotel Rubens-Grote Markt – If you’re travelling on a bit of a higher budget, then you’re sure to love this luxury hotel in the centre of Antwerp city. There are countless plush rooms on offer along with a number of great amenities to ensure guests want for nothing during their stay.

Yust Antwerp – This hostel is a great choice for budget travellers or for those looking for a great social atmosphere. Highly-rated and centrally-located, they offer both private rooms and dorm beds along with a lot of other perks to ensure you have a great time in this Belgian city!

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Antwerp hotels!

So there you have it. Antwerp in 3 days (and a couple of other cities too!). Loads of fun to explore, the cool city has something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a fashionista or diamond trader, history lover or hardcore clubber, Antwerp certainly won’t disappoint!

Are you planning to visit Antwerp? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Bruges Itinerary

The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Brussels Itinerary

One Day in Luxembourg Itinerary: A Day Trip from Brussels

About Lizzie Fitzgerald

Lizzie is a writer for The World Was Here First. She loves travelling and discovering new places but also often finds herself returning to her favourite destinations. She has a particular affinity for Greece where she has visited countless islands and destinations on the mainland.

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Is Antwerp Worth Visiting? (+9 Great Reasons to Go)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: October 28, 2023

Traveling to Belgium and trying to decide where to go might not be an easy task, especially if you have limited time in the country. Most first-time visitors go to Brussels and Bruges , and sometimes also Ghent. But then the question comes, is it worth visiting Antwerp ?

We live in Belgium and Antwerpen is our absolute favorite city. So you can already guess my answer to this question: yes, Antwerp is absolutely worth visiting.

And yes, we might be biased, but we are not the only ones. Everyone who visits Antwerp agrees that it’s an absolute must-see in Belgium.

With a rich history and culture, a wide variety of sights and attractions, and fantastic shopping and dining options, Antwerp offers the very best of Belgium in one place!

In fact, there is so much to see and do in Antwerp that you could easily fill a few days in the city and never get bored. Plus, accommodations in Antwerp are much more affordable than in most other major cities in this part of Europe, so it’s an excellent destination to add to any West-Europe itinerary. But even if you only have a few hours or a day to spare, it’s definitely worth a visit!

In this guide, we share some of the main reasons why you absolutely shouldn’t miss Antwerp. I really hope that we can inspire you to visit our beautiful city. Find out!

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE TO READ: Best Things To Do in Antwerp

Here are just a few reasons to visit Antwerp:

1. Architecture

Antwerp has some of the most varied and remarkable architecture in Belgium. The mix of styles and designs spanning over many centuries is so unique that it distinguishes Antwerp from any other city in Belgium.

The moment you arrive in the city by train, you find yourself inside one of the most beautiful train stations in the world, Antwerpen Centraal.

In the historic old town, you can see impressive 16th-century Guild Houses, the remarkable Gothic Cathedral, and some of the finest examples of Baroque architecture.

Het Steen Castle by the river is the oldest building in Antwerp and one of the oldest in Belgium.

If you take the time to explore Antwerp more in-depth, you will discover some fine examples of Art Nouveau architecture. The city also has some unique contemporary buildings and modern structures that have already become some of the most recognizable landmarks in the city.

Antwerp has a very rich history and has always been a prosperous city. Also nowadays, Antwerp is the second-largest port in Europe (after Rotterdam), but let’s take a trip back in time…

At the beginning of the 16th century, during the Golden Age, Antwerp was the second-largest city north of the Alps and the main commercial center of Europe. About 40% of all goods traded in the world at that time passed through the harbor of Antwerp.

Antwerp was also the richest city in Europe attracting the most skilled craftsmen, merchants, artists, and intellectuals from all over Europe. As you can imagine, all this had a significant influence on the development of the city.

One of the oldest printing presses in the world was also established here during that period and you can still visit it today. In fact, the Plantin-Moretus printing house is so unique that it was the first museum in the world to be included on the Unesco World Heritage List.

With such a rich history, it will come as no surprise that Antwerp has always been the city of arts.

You probably already heard of Peter Paul Rubens, one of the most famous Flemish painters (17th century). He lived and worked in Antwerp, and his house has been turned into a beautiful museum . At the moment of the last update, this museum is being renovated, but you can still see some of the works of Rubens in other museums in the city.

Also nowadays, Antwerp has a lot to offer for art lovers, with a wide range of internationally renowned museums and galleries.

As a minimum, don’t miss the Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp ( KMSKA ). After a decade-long renovation that cost over 100 million euros, this is now one of the most impressive art museums in Belgium. Among others, it features the works of some of Flanders’ most famous painters such as Rubens, Van Eyck, and Ensor.

And if you are not into museums, you’ll find plenty of street art and interesting art installations all over the city.

4. Diamonds

Antwerp is the diamond capital of the world and has held this title for centuries. The diamond trade started over 500 years ago and has grown to this day.

Nowadays, there are over 1,500 diamond firms in the city, and about 85% of the world’s rough diamonds pass through Antwerp’s diamond district.

If you ever dreamt of owning some jewelry with real, quality diamonds, then Antwerp is by far the best place to be. The diamond district has dozens of little diamond shops where you can find jewelry in all styles and price ranges.

Talking about prices, they are usually much better here than anywhere else we have seen, plus, you can usually haggle too ;).

5. Chocolate

No trip to Belgium would be complete without tasting its world-famous chocolate.

While you can find really good chocolate all over the country, there’s a particularly good reason why chocolate lovers should visit Antwerp. The largest Belgian chocolate museum in the world – Chocolate Nation – is located in Antwerp.

This interactive museum takes you on a journey through the history of chocolate making, with a special focus on Belgian chocolate and its history. You can see, smell, taste, and completely immerse yourself in the world of chocolate… A visit here is educational, delicious, and fun for all ages!

In addition – of course – you can simply buy Belgian chocolate. Some of the best Belgian chocolate brands are Neuhaus, Leonidas, Godiva, and Pierre Marcolini, and you will find their boutique stores in Antwerp as well. If you are looking for more affordable Belgian chocolate, simply get some Côte d’Or chocolate at any supermarket.

6. Fashion & Shopping

While not as known to the broad audience as Milan, Paris, or London, Antwerp is actually one of the European fashion hotspots.

Antwerp Fashion Academy is one of the world’s top fashion schools and its alumni include designers like Dirk Bikkembergs and Dries Van Noten (the Belgian Queen’s favorite), to name just a few.

If you are interested in learning more, be sure to visit Antwerp’s Fashion District where you will also find MoMu , an internationally well-known Fashion Museum.

In addition, Antwerp is a mecca for shopping! You will find countless options here. From the biggest mainstream brands and department stores to some of the world’s most famous designer brands and smaller fashion boutiques by local creators – Antwerp truly has it all!

The Antwerp food scene is well worth noting too!

With so many nationalities living in the city, you will find all kinds of cuisines represented here. From traditional Belgian or Italian restaurants to South American specialties, Asian fusion or vegan food – there is truly something for all tastes.

If you are looking for a special treat, you will be glad to know that Antwerp is home to some of the best restaurants in Belgium. In fact, the city has over 100 restaurants featured on the Michelin website and over 20 Michelin-star restaurants. Just keep in mind that some of these restaurants are booked up weeks and months in advance, so plan ahead!

8. Bolleke Beer

In a country with thousands of beers where every region has some local specialties, there is probably no other beer that is so indistinguishable from its home city as Bolleke, known as the taste of Antwerp.

Made by De Koninck Brewery in the heart of the city since 1952, Bolleke is the iconic beer of Antwerp. They say it’s “Antwerp in a bottle”.

Needless to say, no trip to Antwerp would be complete without tasting this local beer. You will find it on tap and in bottles in cafes all over the city, but if you have some extra time, be sure to also visit the City Brewery.

They offer a self-guided tour where you go through the various stages of the brewery’s history and the brewing process, and get to taste some of their iconic freshly-tapped beers straight at the source!

9. The Hands of Antwerp

There is one more thing that makes the city unique and that’s its hands. Yes, a hand is the symbol of Antwerp.

The story goes that a little boy called Silvius Brabo bravely cut off the hand of a giant Antigoon who was terrorizing the city and threw it into the river. This is how the name of Antwerpen was born (‘ hand werpen ‘ = to throw a hand).

You can find the statue of Brabo throwing a hand in front of the City Hall on the Market Square. And if you pay attention, you will find hands all over the city.

There’s a large stone hand on the main shopping street, a hand sculpture at the Central Station, there are little hands on the facade of the MAS Museum, etc. In addition, you can buy cookies and chocolates in the shape of Antwerp hands…

If you are looking for some unique souvenirs to take home from Belgium, you will only find these little hands in Antwerp. That’s just one more excuse to visit, don’t you agree?!

So, these are just a couple of reasons to visit Antwerp. I could easily come up with a dozen or two more… But there is really no better way to find out than by simply coming over and discovering the city yourself!

I sincerely hope that this article inspires you to visit Antwerp and I’m sure that you will love it here, just as much as we do. We take all our guests to Antwerp and many tell us that they like it even more than the other cities.

TIP: Before you go, take a look at our guide to the best things to do in Antwerp , but also some of the hidden gems that will make your visit so much more special. As I said, there is so much to see in the city, and there are countless reasons to visit!

READ ALSO: Where to Stay in Antwerp: Best Areas & Hotels

If you are traveling with a family, be sure to also check out our guide to the best things to do in Antwerp with kids . And if you are looking for some more travel inspiration in the region, here you can find an overview of all our articles about Belgium and The Netherlands .

Have a great trip!

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin this image!

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• Antwerp , Ghent

Antwerp vs. Ghent

Table of Contents

Belgium is a treasure trove of delightful cities that cater to various interests and tastes. As you venture through this enchanting country, you may find yourself wondering which destination to choose for your next adventure. This comprehensive guide will provide you with the insights needed to make an informed decision. Keep reading to explore the best of Antwerp and Ghent!

History & Culture

Diving into the history and culture of Antwerp and Ghent is a thrilling experience. Both cities have rich pasts, but each offers a unique perspective on Belgian heritage.

In Antwerp, you’ll find a blend of old and new. This city has played a key role in the world of diamonds, and its influence is still felt today. Antwerp’s medieval history is also evident, with ancient structures telling tales of the past.

Ghent, on the other hand, boasts well-preserved medieval architecture. Walking through its streets feels like stepping back in time. Ghent’s vibrant past shines through in every corner of the city.

Antwerp is known for its vibrant arts scene. Many famous artists called this city home, enriching its cultural heritage. Today, you can still feel the artistic spirit in Antwerp’s many galleries and museums.

Ghent also has a strong connection to the arts. Its history of craftsmanship and design is evident throughout the city. Ghent’s artistic legacy lives on, attracting creatives from all over the world.

Festivals are a big part of Antwerp’s culture. They celebrate various aspects of life, from music to fashion. These events draw in both locals and tourists, making Antwerp a lively destination.

Ghent, too, enjoys its fair share of festivities. Cultural events and celebrations bring the city to life throughout the year. Ghent’s festivals showcase its rich traditions and dynamic spirit.

In summary, Antwerp and Ghent both have fascinating histories and lively cultures. Antwerp’s blend of old and new, along with its connection to the arts and world of diamonds, sets it apart. Ghent’s well-preserved medieval architecture and vibrant past make it a must-visit destination. No matter which city you choose, you’ll be immersed in Belgian heritage and charm.

Attractions & Activities

Exploring Antwerp and Ghent, you’ll find plenty of attractions and activities. Each city offers unique experiences to make your trip memorable.

Antwerp is famous for its diamonds. Visit the Diamond District, where you can learn about the industry and admire sparkling gems. The city is also home to the stunning Cathedral of Our Lady, a must-see architectural marvel.

Ghent’s attractions include the iconic Gravensteen Castle. This medieval fortress transports you back in time with its impressive history. Another must-visit is St. Bavo’s Cathedral, housing the famous Ghent Altarpiece.

Art enthusiasts will love Antwerp. The Rubens House, once the home of artist Peter Paul Rubens, now showcases his masterpieces. You’ll also find the Museum aan de Stroom, an eye-catching modern building with fascinating exhibits.

In Ghent, you can explore the Design Museum Gent. It celebrates design through the ages and features contemporary exhibits. The Museum of Fine Arts Ghent is another must-visit, housing an incredible collection of art from various periods.

Architecture buffs will enjoy Antwerp’s diverse buildings. The city has a mix of historic structures and modern designs. Antwerp Central Station, with its grand facade, is a prime example of the city’s architectural prowess.

Ghent is a haven for architecture lovers too. Its well-preserved medieval buildings create a unique atmosphere. Take a stroll along the Graslei and Korenlei, two picturesque streets lined with historic structures.

For a touch of nature, visit Antwerp’s green spaces. The Plantin-Moretus Museum has a beautiful garden, perfect for a peaceful break. Middelheim Park is another serene spot, with stunning outdoor sculptures to admire.

Ghent offers its own natural gems. The Bourgoyen-Ossemeersen Nature Reserve is perfect for wildlife spotting and leisurely walks. The Blaarmeersen recreation area provides a relaxing escape, with its lush greenery and peaceful lake.

A boat tour is a great way to see Antwerp. Float along the city’s waterways, taking in the sights from a different perspective. The historic port area is a popular spot to start your journey.

In Ghent, a canal cruise is a must-do activity. Glide through the city’s charming waterways, admiring the picturesque scenery. It’s an ideal way to see Ghent’s beauty up close.

To sum up, both Antwerp and Ghent offer a variety of attractions and activities. Antwerp’s diamond industry and diverse architecture make it unique, while Ghent’s medieval charm and impressive art scene captivate visitors. Whichever city you choose, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to attractions and activities.

Eating, Drinking & Nightlife

Both Antwerp and Ghent offer amazing culinary experiences. Each city boasts diverse dining options and vibrant nightlife to enjoy. Let’s explore what each destination has to offer.

Antwerp is known for its delicious cuisine. The city offers a wide range of eateries, from fine dining to cozy cafes. You’ll find traditional Belgian dishes and international options to satisfy your taste buds.

In Ghent, you’ll also discover great food. The city has a thriving food scene, with many restaurants featuring local ingredients. Vegetarian and vegan options are plentiful, making Ghent a paradise for plant-based eaters.

Drinking in Antwerp is a treat. Belgian beer is famous, and Antwerp has many bars where you can sample local brews. Don’t miss trying a Bolleke, Antwerp’s signature beer, at one of the city’s traditional brown bars.

Ghent’s beer scene is equally impressive. With a wide selection of local and craft beers, you’ll find something for every taste. Visit a historic pub or a modern beer bar to experience the city’s beer culture.

When it comes to nightlife, Antwerp doesn’t disappoint. The city offers a variety of options, from trendy clubs to laid-back bars. The South District is a popular area, with fashionable spots to dance the night away.

Ghent’s nightlife is vibrant as well. You’ll find plenty of bars, clubs, and live music venues to enjoy. Oude Markt, known as the longest bar in Europe, is a must-visit spot for a night out on the town.

For a unique dining experience, Antwerp’s Fiskebar offers fresh seafood dishes. This stylish spot is perfect for a memorable meal. For dessert, indulge in Belgian chocolates at a local chocolatier.

In Ghent, visit the Pakhuis for a fantastic meal. This converted warehouse serves up delicious dishes in a stunning setting. For dessert, try a traditional Ghent specialty, the sweet and crispy Gentse neuzen.

In conclusion, both Antwerp and Ghent provide excellent eating, drinking, and nightlife options. Antwerp’s diverse dining scene and fashionable clubs make it an exciting destination, while Ghent’s food focus and historic pubs create a charming atmosphere. No matter which city you choose, you’ll be delighted by the culinary and nightlife experiences on offer.

Antwerp and Ghent both offer unique shopping experiences. Let’s dive into what each city has in store for shopaholics.

Antwerp is famous for its shopping scene. The city is home to high-end fashion boutiques and trendy concept stores. You’ll find plenty of options to update your wardrobe.

Ghent, on the other hand, offers a mix of shopping options. The city features a blend of independent shops and well-known brands. Ghent is perfect for finding one-of-a-kind items.

In Antwerp, the Meir is a must-visit shopping area. This pedestrian street is lined with well-known brands and department stores. It’s ideal for a full day of shopping.

Ghent’s Veldstraat is a popular shopping destination. The busy street offers a mix of clothing stores, bookshops, and souvenir spots. You’ll love exploring the variety of shops available.

Antwerp is also renowned for its diamond district. Here, you’ll find many jewelry stores and diamond traders. It’s the perfect place to splurge on a special piece.

Ghent has a unique shopping experience at the Great Butchers’ Hall. This historic building houses local food vendors, selling regional delicacies. It’s a great spot for food lovers to shop.

In Antwerp, don’t miss the Stadsfeestzaal shopping center. This stunning venue features elegant shops and eateries. You’ll enjoy shopping in this beautifully restored building.

Ghent’s Vrijdagmarkt is a lively outdoor market. Held every Friday, it’s a great place to find clothing, accessories, and local products. Be sure to check it out during your visit.

Overall, both Antwerp and Ghent offer exciting shopping experiences. Antwerp is known for high-end fashion and diamonds, while Ghent provides a mix of shops and unique markets. Whichever city you choose, you’ll have a fantastic time shopping.

Accommodation

Finding a cozy place to stay is important. Let’s compare the accommodations in Antwerp and Ghent.

Antwerp has a wide range of lodging options. You’ll find luxury hotels, boutique inns, and budget-friendly hostels. There’s something for every traveler’s budget.

Ghent also offers diverse accommodation choices. From charming bed and breakfasts to modern hotels, you’ll find the perfect place. Ghent ensures a comfortable stay for all.

In Antwerp, the city center is a popular area. Many visitors choose to stay near the main attractions. You’ll be close to shopping, dining, and sightseeing.

Ghent’s historic center is an ideal location. Staying here puts you within walking distance of major sites. It’s a convenient spot for exploring the city.

Antwerp’s accommodations often showcase its rich history. Many hotels are set in beautifully restored buildings. You’ll enjoy a stay steeped in charm and elegance.

Ghent’s lodging options reflect its medieval past. You can find accommodations in centuries-old buildings. It adds a touch of history to your visit.

In conclusion, both Antwerp and Ghent provide great accommodation options. Antwerp is known for its luxury hotels and central locations, while Ghent offers charming historic lodging choices. No matter which city you visit, you’ll find a welcoming place to rest your head.

Family-Friendliness & Children’s Activities

Traveling with family can be fun and exciting. Let’s see how Antwerp and Ghent cater to families and children.

Antwerp is a family-friendly city with many activities. Kids will love the exciting attractions and interactive museums. Your family will enjoy exploring together.

Ghent also offers engaging activities for children. From playful parks to educational exhibits, kids will have a blast. Ghent provides a memorable family vacation experience.

In Antwerp, one popular spot is the Antwerp Zoo. This historic zoo is home to various animals and beautiful gardens. Your children will be delighted.

Ghent has a lovely nature reserve, Bourgoyen-Ossemeersen. Families can explore trails, spot wildlife, and enjoy a picnic. It’s a perfect place for outdoor fun.

Antwerp’s MAS Museum features interactive exhibits. Children can learn about the city’s history and culture. They’ll have a great time while gaining knowledge.

Ghent’s Design Museum offers hands-on activities for kids. They can discover the world of design and creativity. It’s both fun and educational.

If your family enjoys bike rides, Antwerp is a great choice. The city offers several family-friendly bike routes. You can explore the city on two wheels.

Ghent also has lovely cycling paths. Pedal along the picturesque canals and historic sites. It’s a delightful way to spend time together.

Antwerp has a variety of playgrounds for children. From modern equipment to natural play areas, kids will have a blast. Parents can relax and enjoy the surroundings.

Ghent is home to several parks with playgrounds. Your children can run, climb, and make new friends. It’s a perfect spot for family bonding.

Both Antwerp and Ghent offer fantastic family-friendly experiences. With a variety of children’s activities and attractions, each city provides a memorable vacation for the whole family. Whether you choose Antwerp’s bustling city vibe or Ghent’s charming atmosphere, you’ll find plenty of options to keep your kids entertained and happy.

Getting There & Getting Around

Planning your trip is crucial for a smooth journey. Let’s compare Antwerp and Ghent on getting there and getting around.

To reach Antwerp, fly into Brussels Airport. It’s about 28 miles (45 km) from the city. Trains connect the airport to Antwerp Central Station.

Ghent is also accessible via Brussels Airport. The airport is roughly 34 miles (55 km) away. Regular trains run from the airport to Ghent.

Antwerp boasts an efficient public transport system. Buses, trams, and trains make getting around easy. You’ll navigate the city with ease.

In Ghent, public transport is reliable too. Buses and trams connect the city’s attractions. You’ll find it simple to explore.

Antwerp offers bike rentals for active travelers. Cycle through the city and enjoy the sights. It’s a fun and healthy way to get around.

Ghent is also bike-friendly with rental options. Pedal along charming streets and canals. Discover the city at your own pace.

Taxis are available in Antwerp for a comfortable ride. They’re convenient for reaching your destination. Keep in mind the fares.

Ghent has taxis as well for hassle-free transportation. It’s a good option for a quick and easy trip. Be aware of the costs.

Driving a car in Antwerp is possible. However, parking can be challenging. Consider public transport or cycling instead.

Ghent is also navigable by car, but parking might be tricky. Opt for public transportation or bikes for a stress-free experience.

In summary, both Antwerp and Ghent are easily accessible from Brussels Airport, with convenient train connections.

Each city has a reliable public transport system, with buses and trams ensuring smooth travel. Biking is a popular way to explore both destinations, and taxis are available if needed. While driving is possible in both cities, parking can be difficult. Consider using public transport or renting a bike for a more enjoyable experience.

Weather plays a key role in your travel plans. Let’s look at the climates of Antwerp and Ghent.

Antwerp has a mild maritime climate. Winters are cool, with January averaging 36°F (2°C). Summers are comfortable, with July temperatures around 65°F (18°C).

Ghent shares a similar climate due to its close proximity. Winter temperatures hover around 36°F (2°C) in January. July sees average temperatures of 64°F (18°C).

Spring in Antwerp is pleasant and mild. Temperatures range between 46°F (8°C) and 59°F (15°C). It’s a nice time to explore the city.

Ghent also enjoys a gentle spring season. Expect temperatures from 45°F (7°C) to 59°F (15°C). Sightseeing is enjoyable during this time.

Autumn in Antwerp brings cooler weather. Temperatures drop to between 45°F (7°C) and 57°F (14°C). Pack layers for your visit.

Ghent experiences a similar autumn climate. Expect temperatures from 44°F (7°C) to 57°F (14°C). Be prepared for cooler days.

Rainfall in Antwerp is moderate and spread throughout the year. Carry an umbrella and a raincoat. Stay prepared for wet weather.

Ghent also sees consistent rainfall year-round. Pack rain gear to keep dry. Don’t let the rain stop your adventures.

In conclusion, both Antwerp and Ghent share a similar maritime climate with mild winters and comfortable summers. Spring and autumn seasons are pleasant but be prepared for rainfall during your visit. Pack accordingly and enjoy your time in these charming Belgian cities.

Safety is important when traveling. Let’s compare Antwerp and Ghent in this aspect.

Antwerp is a safe city for tourists. Use common sense and stay aware. Petty crime is low.

Ghent also enjoys a low crime rate. Keep an eye on your belongings. Practice usual safety measures.

Both cities have well-lit streets. Walking at night is generally safe. Stick to populated areas for extra security.

In case of emergencies, dial 112. This number works in both Antwerp and Ghent. Help is readily available.

Public transportation is reliable and secure. Buses and trams in both cities are monitored. Feel at ease using them.

Cyclists should wear helmets in Antwerp and Ghent. Bike lanes are present in both cities. Ride safely and follow traffic rules.

In conclusion, both Antwerp and Ghent are safe destinations for travelers. Petty crime rates are low, and public transportation is secure. Remember to practice common safety measures, and you’ll have an enjoyable trip to these Belgian cities.

When traveling, budget is important. Let’s compare Antwerp and Ghent in terms of cost.

Antwerp can be a bit pricier. Hotels average €100 ($110) per night. Expect to pay more in this city.

Ghent is more budget-friendly. Hotels average €80 ($88) per night. Save some money in Ghent.

Eating out varies in both cities. A meal in Antwerp costs around €15 ($16). Ghent offers meals for €12 ($13).

Public transportation is similar. A ticket in Antwerp is €3 ($3.30). Ghent’s ticket price is €2.50 ($2.75).

Museums in Antwerp charge around €10 ($11) for entry. In Ghent, you’ll pay about €8 ($9).

In summary, Ghent is more budget-friendly than Antwerp. Accommodation, food, and attractions are generally cheaper. However, both cities offer a range of options to suit different budgets.

Which Is Better – Antwerp or Ghent?

Antwerp shines with its rich history. Ghent, too, has a storied past. Choose based on personal preference.

For attractions and activities, Antwerp offers more. Ghent still has plenty to do, though. Decide on the type of experience you seek.

Regarding eating, drinking, and nightlife, Antwerp has a more vibrant scene. Ghent is quieter but still enjoyable. Choose depending on your social preferences.

Shopping enthusiasts will love Antwerp. Ghent has fewer options but is still delightful. Your shopping needs dictate the choice.

Antwerp provides more luxurious accommodations. Ghent has a wider range of budget-friendly options. Weigh your priorities before choosing.

Families with children will enjoy both cities. Antwerp has more family-friendly attractions. Ghent offers a more relaxed atmosphere. Consider your family’s preferences.

Transportation is convenient in both cities. Antwerp has a more extensive public transportation system. Ghent is easier to navigate on foot. Your preferred mode of transportation can help you decide.

Weather is comparable in both cities. Antwerp experiences slightly cooler temperatures. Ghent has milder weather throughout the year. Choose based on your preferred climate.

Safety-wise, both cities are quite safe. Be cautious in crowded areas. Follow standard travel safety tips.

Lastly, Ghent is more budget-friendly. Antwerp can be more expensive. Your budget will be a significant factor in your choice.

In conclusion, the choice between Antwerp and Ghent depends on your preferences and priorities. History buffs and shopping enthusiasts will prefer Antwerp, while those seeking a more budget-friendly, relaxed experience will enjoy Ghent. Ultimately, both cities offer a unique and memorable Belgian experience.

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Antwerp and ghent in a day – a guide for those short on time.

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When I asked my friends who are based in Brussels if it’s possible to visit Antwerp and Ghent in a day, they hesitantly said yes you can, but you’ll not see all the attractions, there are so many things to do and visit in both cities. Oh well, since I’ve got only one day to spare, I’ll take a punt and persevere. Most likely no museum visits this time, just feel the vibes of both cities. Rewind, a few years ago when I visited Brugge (link here), it took me a full day to appreciate everything this city had to offer.

ANTWERP /  (Dutch: Antwerpen / French: Anvers) 

My booked train was the 07:59 IC from Brussels Midi to Antwerp through Omio site, fare was €9.40 second class unreserved. I arrived early at the station, still plenty of time for a caffeine fix. Midi is a huge station, train platforms upstairs look deserted but on the ground level you’ll find a large area of shops, cafes and restaurants. Station is fairly busy throughout the day with departing and arriving commuters but navigating around is easy, just check out the overhead signs to find your way around. 

Train departed on time and travelling time was under an hour. Carriage where I sat was clean, comfy and warm for a cold Belgium morning. Arrival was spot on 08:35 at the colossal Antwerpen Centraal. It’s an impressive station, it has four levels and 14 tracks covered by a huge iron and glass ceiling with amazing light-effects. The awe inspiring dome above the waiting room is an architectural marvel, an exciting crossroads for travellers.

Diamonds are forever! If you want to buy a jewellery with a diamond(s), then you’re in the right place. When you step out of the station, directly opposite you’ll find shops lined up specialising in this precious stone. These shops form part of the Antwerp Diamond District or Diamond Quarter. 84% of the world’s mined diamonds end up here in Antwerp.

Next to the Central Station is Antwerp Zoo. From the outside, it looks like a big park. Due to my limited time, a visit to the zoo was added to one of the things I’ll do next time I’m in Antwerp.

If shopping is high on your agenda then the Meir area is the premier hotspot for the shopaholic, a combination of all the charms of architectural masterpieces mixed with history and blended with today’s modern designs. You’ll find a lot of restaurants, cafes and specialty shops in this area. A must visit is the Stadsfeestzaa, the opulence of this majestic building is jaw dropping.

Grote Mark / Main Square is rather small but stunning! With many guild houses around the square. The majestic Town Hall was built from 1561 to 1565 in a Renaissance style with Italian and Flemish influences. You can see the Cathedral of our Lady in the background, another attraction to visit. I would really love to spend more time here, maybe lunch or coffee in one of the restaurants but due to my limited time, I’ll do it next time.

Before I headed back to the station, I managed to have a quick lunch at Takumi Ramen Kitchen . I have been dying to eat a good ramen and I tell you it didn’t disappoint.

Self guided walking around Antwerp is great, it’s a pocket-sized city, very friendly for those who like to be independent without a guide. Public transport by trams and buses is very handy. Tickets for rides are available at tourist centres, newsagents and vending machines. You can also download De Lijn app for discounted fares before you go.

GHENT (Dutch: Gent / French: Gand)

I caught the 13:37 train to Ghent-Dampoort station, last stop before Gent-Sint-Pieters, the main station. Travelling time was around 45 minutes which gave me enough time to stretch my legs and catch a power nap. This station is about 15 minutes walk away but if you prefer public transport, you can catch buses 3, 17, 18, 38, 39 at Korenmarkt stand or you can even rent a bike and pedal your way to the city centre.

From the station, I just literally walked along Schookai, a tree lined street parallel to the river. You’ll cross bridges here with some resting areas. Perfect spot for photo op with the river in the background without the crowds as it’s a mostly residential area. Only a few blocks away is the centre with lots of shops, restaurants and the must-see landmarks of this city.

The awe-inspiring Saint Bavo’s Cathedral (Sint-Baafskathedraal) takes your breath away! The Cathedral boasts beautiful stained glass windows and black-and-white marble/wood corridors to name a few of its features, free admission but a donation is always welcome towards the up keep. However entry to the chapel with the magnificent polyptych ‘The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb by brothers Jan and Hubert van Eyck, cost 4€ (Adults) which includes a multi-lingual audio guide. It’s one of the most important works of art in Europe. There has been controversy stirring up in the art world with art lovers alike over the recent restoration of this artwork, it’s all over the news and on social media. Find out and let me know of your thoughts. Note: taking photos and video inside the chapel is forbidden.

Opposite Saint Bavo’s Cathedral is the Het Belfort van Gent, a 91-metre-tall belfry, the tallest in Belgium built between 1313 and 1380. There is an interesting exhibition inside. If you don’t get claustrophobic and are not afraid of heights, then you can climb the structure via the narrow stairs. For an easier or more accessible option there is a lift which costs €8 for adults. Once up, you can enjoy the panoramic views of Ghent and beyond.

Next to Belfry is the magnificent St Nicholas’ (Sint-Nik­laas­kerk), it’s free to visit too. Magnificent exterior in a high gothic style, step inside to appreciate the stunning architecture, stained glass windows, and paintings. It has a number of altars and a large organ dating from the mid 19th century. Saint Nicholas’ tower together with Saint Bavo’s Cathedral and Belfry forms the famous ‘Three Towers’ image of Ghent.

You can always stop here at Korenmarkt for a meal, coffee, beer or Belgian waffles. Located just next to St. Nicholas’ church and Leie River on the other side. Browse inside in one of the historic buildings for gifts and souvenirs. There are yearly cultural festivals held in this square.

Graslei perhaps is one of the most breathtaking spots that I’ve visited in Ghent. It’s a walkway surrounded by centuries old guild houses which line both sides of River Leie. A selfie spot with an instagramable display of step-gabled rooftops. Standing on St Michael’s Bridge you’ll have the most amazing views of Ghent, Belgium’s most beautiful city!

If you have plenty of time, tour the city by boat along the gentle river. You can purchase your tickets from one of a number of operators in this area. I love being on the water, it gives you such a different way to appreciate a city, shame again that I didn’t have enough time to indulge in this pleasure.

My last stop was the The Gravenstee, a medieval castle which dates from 1180. Unfortunately when I got there, I missed the opening hours, It closed at 6 PM. Never mind, there’s always next time!

I wrapped up my half day in Ghent with a nice Ename Dubbel, a dark abbey beer along with grilled Belgian chicken in one of the bars in the city centre. Love this city!

My day trip to cover Antwerp and Ghent is definitely worth considering if you only have a day to spend. If you want to do this as a self guided trip, planning is vital for the key points you want to visit. If you like to spend time inside museums and historic attractions maybe this hit the ground running style is not for you. Public transport in both cities is very well organised and can get you around quickly. Ghent offers a wide network of trams and buses from Gent-Sint-Pieters or Ghent-Dampoort railway stations. The CityCard allows you unlimited travel in Ghent from 48 to 72 hrs. For me, I relied with my shoes but on the way back I took a bus for convenience and to rest my feet! A single journey was 3€ to Gent-Sint-Pieters for my connection to an IC train back to Brussels.

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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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How to visit Ghent, Bruges & Antwerp by train

• Belgium , Rail Travel
• Updated: May 19, 2024

Belgium is a small country, but brimming with European charm and diversity. You can comfortably visit several cities in just a few days so it’s perfect for a short break.

Since I’d already been to Brussels , I focused my attention on Ghent, Bruges and Antwerp. A journey through these cities unveils a captivating tapestry of medieval architecture, surreal artistry, and a fascinating clash of old-world charm and modern delights. 

Why should you stay in Ghent?

My friends and I looked at a map and noticed that Ghent was positioned between Bruges and Antwerp so it made perfect sense to use Ghent as a base from where to explore.

Before finally choosing Ghent, we still weren’t 100% sure it was the right decision. We were only in Belgium for 4 nights and debated whether or not to spent two nights in Ghent and two nights in either Bruges or Antwerp.

We thought about staying in Bruges because it’s often seen as the star attraction of Belgium. However, we went with Ghent on the basis of its location and that it appeared the least touristy of the three places.

Was Ghent the right decision?

I couldn’t be happier with our decision to stay in Ghent. It was more beautiful than I imagined. We unanimously loved it. So the short answer it yes, however, there are a few things that you should consider.

How many days to you have to play around with?

If you have more time, then I’d definitely distribute your time between the three cities.

Ghent was perfect for a 4-night stay, particularly since two of those days were spent visiting Bruges and Antwerp. However, after discovering that Antwerp is bigger than we expected, I probably would have spent a night in Antwerp. A day-trip didn’t really seem to be enough, it’s one of those cities that needs time to get to know.

Using one base also meant that we didn’t need to go through the hassle of moving our luggage around and searching for more accommodation. Bruges is only a 35-minute train journey away from Ghent, and Antwerp is 50 minutes away by train. A lot of people travel longer than that on a daily basis just to get to work!

Furthermore, there are several train stations in Ghent so it’s easy to get to where you want to go. Our accommodation was located centrally, the closest station for us to walk to was Ghent Dampoort Station , taking about 15-minutes.

You can book your train tickets online via the Trainline . 

Do you have more than 3 or 4 days?

If you have more time, or simply want want to mix things up a bit, I suggest staying in Ghent as well as either Bruges or Antwerp for a night or two. If you’re looking for nightlife, then Antwerp might be the one for you. However, if you’re looking for something more romantic, then Bruges will probably be more your cup of tea. Best case scenario, stay in all three!

Exploring Ghent

Impressions of Ghent

I absolutely loved Ghent! It’s topped the list of my favourite Belgian cities. Brimming with Flemish charm, similar to Bruges but with less tourists.

It offers a fabulous blend of old and new to explore. A city where you can marvel at its historic medieval centre while relaxing in hipster cafes or browsing through fancy design shops. Like every great city, Ghent has a strong supply of museums that aren’t just there for a rainy day.

Things to do in Ghent

Gravensteen Castle: You can’t miss this medieval Castle located slap-bang in the middle of the city. It boasts battlements, turrets, winding staircases of stone and even an intact moat. Take in the sights from outside or take a tour inside for ten euros.

Saint Michael’s Bridge: The Saint Michael’s Bridge connects two sides of Ghent and it is the only place in the city you can see Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, Saint Nicholas’ Church, and the Belfry Tower at the same time. It’s a picture-perfect location!

Saint Nicholas’ Church: The medieval centre of Ghent features a number of churches with incredibly ornate architecture but St Nicholas’s Church is arguably the most impressive. With its imposing Gothic appearance, you won’t miss it, and it’s free to enter.

Panoramic view: Climb to the top of the Belfry Tower (eight Euro) for an epic view of the city.

Museums: Ghent has an abundance of museums but my favourites were S.M.A.K and Museum voor Schone Kunsten. These two art museums are located next to each other in Citadel Park. Graffiti Street: Walk through this narrow alleyway to see walls covered in graffiti and if you are feeling inspired, you can even buy a can of spray paint and add your own creation to the wall.

Canal Cruise: Explore beautiful Ghent from the water on a canal cruise. You can choose a standard 40-minute cruise or one that also includes snacks and an alcoholic beverage .

For more pre-bookable tours in Ghent, check out the ones below:

Exploring Bruges

Impressions of Bruges

I only had a day in Bruges but found it really charming with a stunning supply of fanciful building facades and cobblestone streets. When it comes to photogenic cities, Bruges probably wins the race. 

However, it’s smaller than Ghent and definitely feels more touristy, which is another reason why I think Ghent provides a better base.

I haven’t read into this, but I reckon the city’s popularity also has something to do with In Bruges , the hugely-successful 2008 black comedy written by Martin McDonagh and starring Colin Farrell. 

Things to do in Bruges

Rozenhoedkaai: The view from this bridge is one of the most photographed spots in Belgium (picture above). With its canals and classic buildings it really is the quintessential olde-worldy Belgium we all think of.

Belfry Tower: I really wanted to head up to the Belfry after seeing it featured in Martin McDonagh film but it was super busy (it was height of the season in summer). However, if you’re travelling out of season, don’t missed the chance to go up this medieval clock tower for panoramic views of the city and Grote Markt.

The Market Square: Also known as Grote Markt. A large square in the centre of Bruges where people flock to admire the grand architecture and festivities. Outlined by multicoloured buildings and filled with carnival games and booths, this square is truly the heart of Bruges.

Canal Tour: Bruges is often called the Venice of the North, as canals run through the whole city. Learn some history and get a great view of the neighbourhoods from the water.

Museums: There are a number of quirky museums in Bruges. Learn how chocolate is made at Choco-Story (book ticket here ), taste and find out about Belgian beer at the beer museum, or indulge in traditional frites at the museum of fries (book ticket here ).

For more pre-bookable tours in Bruges, check out the ones below:

Exploring Antwerp

Impressions of Antwerp

I really want to say I loved Antwerp, but I can’t say I enjoyed it as much as Ghent of Bruges. However, I think this is mainly because I simply didn’t have enough time to get to know it like I did with Ghent. Several of my friends have raved about it, so I think it’s more of a me thing. If I had managed to see more exhibitions and checked out more architecture, I’m sure my feelings would be different.

There are probably a few reasons why I wasn’t instantly won over by Antwerp. Firstly, it’s bigger and busier than Ghent so it doesn’t feel as relaxing.

Also, where Ghent is known for canals and castles; Antwerp is known for fashion stores and diamonds. And whilst I’d love a diamond (or two), my bank balance ensures I won’t be owning any anytime soon. Alas!

However, Antwerp triumphs with her museums. She has plenty of them, particularly when it comes to art.

Things to do in Antwerp

Cathedral of our Lady: Known locally as Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal, it’s the city’s tallest building, towering at 123 meters, and is the largest Gothic structure in the Low Countries. It took 169 years (1352-1521) of labour to finish and it is listed as one of the World’s Heritage Sites! Inside, you will see paintings of Antwerp’s beloved painter, Rubens, and they are ‘The Raising of the Cross’, ‘Assumption of the Virgin Mary’ and ‘The Descent from the Cross’ .

Meir: This is the main shopping street in the city and the most expensive in the country. The most famous place on the this street is the De Stadsfeestzaal (City’s Party Hall). It contains about 40 luxurious shops, and since opening in 2007 is considered one the most beautiful shopping centre in Belgium.

Grote Markt : Belgium has some of the best Market Squares in Europe. As you probably expect, you will find a large statue surrounded by an impressive array of guild houses.

Rubenshuis : The former home and studio turned museum of Antwerp’s greatest and most famous Baroque painter, Peter Paul Rubens. You will see here a courtyard garden, Ruben’s workshops, collections, and more.

Museum Mayer van den Bergh: I love Pieter Bruegel the Elder, and this was the first museum in the world to house a single collection of the painter’s work. Today, it also contains works from the Gothic and Renaissance periods not only from Belgium but also from the Netherlands.

Museum aan de Stroom (MAS) museum – Finally if you’re looking for museums outside of art, head to MAS. The museum has an interesting collection of objects that narrates the history and culture of Antwerp. Finally, if you don’t have time to head inside (unfortunately like me), I still recommend going to check out the building designed by the Dutch architectural firm Neutelings Riedijk Architects.

For pre-bookable tours in Antwerp, click on the tours below:

Looking for more European train journeys?

Travelling by train has to be my favourite mode of transport. You can just sit back and watch the world go by. It’s also usually much less stressful than hiring car abroad, or catching a plane, and of course, much more environmentally friendly.

If you’re looking for more rail journey options, take a look at these trips I’ve taken by train below:

Getting The Train Between Granada, Cordoba & Seville In Andalucia

• Getting the Train Between Budapest – Bratislava – Vienna
• Crossing the Bridge from Copenhagen to Malmo by Train

Are you planning to visit Ghent, Bruges & Antwerp?

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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

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Ghent, more than a one night stay

What can you currently do in Ghent?

Why choose Ghent for a weekend trip?

Vibrant Ghent is well worth a weekend trip. It’s ideal for a last-minute city trip as well. Quirky Ghent offers a fascinating cultural cocktail brimming with trendy, modern urban life. Ghent is a city where people enjoy life: a chilled-out place where anything goes and a city that feels human. Its friendly, welcoming people love the good life. Don’t miss the chance to admire the world-famous masterpiece—the Mystic Lamb by the Van Eyck brothers—during your weekend trip.

Mystic Lamb, lights and delicacies!

The people of Ghent, a breed apart

CityCard: experience Ghent to the full!

So much ghent: discover it yourself, see & do.

Ghent, a cultural cocktail on a human scale

Eat & Drink

Eat out in gourmet Ghent

Overnight stay

Sleep in vibrant Ghent

Ghent: budget-friendly

Looking for accommodation without breaking the bank? Ghent offers many affordable hotels and hostels, a campsite and a youth hostel.

Sustainable tourism: pure Ghent

In Ghent, sustainability isn’t just a fashion: it’s a way of life. Ghent is committed to the environment. 

Ghent, great fun for little dragons

Child-friendly Ghent: have fun on your weekend trip with the whole family!

Not-to-be-missed in Ghent

The castle of the counts.

Shopping in Ghent, so much fun

Ghent museums

Ghent, city of beer