Things To Do
in Gent
Ghent (Gent) is a flourishing medieval city on the Scheldt and Leie rivers, edged with canal-side streets and grand guild houses. It blends centuries of history with a modern, student-driven energy, reflected in its markets, museums, and lively dining scene. Iconic landmarks like Gravensteen castle and the Belfry overlook a compact, walkable center where cyclists share cobbled lanes with pedestrians.
The city shines with a rich culinary culture, craft beer, and a welcoming, cosmopolitan vibe that makes both day and night feel distinctly Ghent.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a stroll through the cobblestone streets of Gent's Historic Center, immersing yourself in the medieval architecture. Visit the stunning St. Bavo's Cathedral, home to the famous Ghent Altarpiece, and take time to appreciate the intricate details of this masterpiece. Stop by a local café for a traditional Belgian breakfast, indulging in fresh pastries and coffee.
After lunch, head to Gravensteen Castle, where you can explore the fascinating history of this medieval fortress and enjoy panoramic views from the top. Wander along the picturesque Graslei and Korenlei, two of the city's most charming streets lined with historic buildings and lively cafés. Take a scenic boat tour along the canals, providing a unique perspective of the city’s architecture and vibrant life.
As evening falls, experience the lively atmosphere of the city by dining at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Flemish dishes like Waterzooi or Gentse Stoverij. After dinner, explore the vibrant nightlife scene, perhaps enjoying a local beer at one of the many pubs or a quiet drink by the canals. End your night with a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets, taking in the enchanting views of the city.
Start your day at the STAM, Gent's city museum, where you can learn about the rich history and culture of the city through engaging exhibits. Spend time exploring the museum's beautiful architecture and the surrounding Citadelpark, perfect for a morning stroll. Don’t forget to grab a snack from a nearby bakery to fuel your exploration.
In the afternoon, visit the Museum of Fine Arts (SMAK) to admire contemporary artworks from both Belgian and international artists. Engage with the diverse exhibits and perhaps join a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the pieces on display. Afterward, take a leisurely walk through the nearby Botanical Garden, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere and lush greenery.
As night falls, attend a performance at the Opera Ballet Vlaanderen, known for its stunning productions and exceptional talent. Savor a pre-show dinner at a nearby restaurant, featuring local specialties paired with exquisite wines. After the show, take a peaceful evening stroll along the river, soaking in the vibrant ambiance of the city at night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍷Beer or drink in a bar | $4-7 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚗Taxi or ride share (short trip) | $6-12 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel room per night | $100-170 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful canals and historic architecture with a compact, walkable center
- Vibrant food, beer culture, and a strong student-driven scene
- Can be crowded in peak season, especially around summer weekends
- Some popular sites require advance planning or long queues
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is ...?" - Where is ...?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much is this?
- "Kunt u mij helpen?" - Can you help me?
- "Ik ben verdwaald." - I am lost.
Places to Visit in Gent
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic canal-side guild houses with reflections in the Leie, perfect for sunrise or dusk shots.
Medieval castle rising above the river with crenellated towers and cobbled walkways—great for dramatic angles.
Renaissance and Gothic architecture housing the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb, a must for architectural and interior photography.
Tall medieval tower offering panoramic city views; climb for a sweeping skyline shot.
Cobblestone streets, colorful façades, and atmospheric courtyards ideal for street photography.
Food in Gent
Gent Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich, comforting stew traditionally made with chicken (or fish) and vegetables in a creamy broth; a quintessential Ghent dish served with crusty bread.
Must-Try!
A slow-braised beef stew in beer, typically served with fries or bread and onions, showcasing deep, hearty Flemish flavors.
Steamed mussels cooked with herbs and beer, often served with a side of crispy fries and dipping sauces.
A traditional eel dish prepared in local broths, reflecting historic Scheldt flavors and regional seafood culture.
Sweet treats that pair well with coffee or dessert wine, reflecting Ghent’s bakery traditions.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A historic square with seasonal markets, fresh produce, and local bites, perfect for a casual lunch or snack wanderings.
Seasonal street food and small bites with canal views, ideal for an informal bite during a walking tour.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dutch (Flemish) is the local language; many speak English. A polite 'alstublieft' (please) and 'dank u wel' (thank you) go a long way.
Ghent is bike-friendly; yield to pedestrians on sidewalks and follow bike lane rules. Use bell or call out before passing on shared paths.
Respect quiet hours in residential areas, especially after 10 pm; queue politely and avoid loud conversations in quiet streets.
Safety
Tipping in Gent
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charge is often included, particularly in restaurants. If not included, a tip of 5-10% for good service is customary.
Cash and cards (debit and credit) are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. ATMs are plentiful in central Ghent.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with long daylight hours; boat tours are popular and crowds peak around canal districts. Stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and explore shaded lanes and indoor museums during peak heat.
Mild to cool temperatures with colorful foliage along the canals; great for walking tours and outdoor markets. Pack a light jacket for breezy evenings.
Chillier and wetter, with festive markets around Sint-Niklaas-like squares; plan for indoor activities and warm meals. Expect fewer crowds than in summer.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming streets; ideal for walking, cycling, and café terraces. Bring a light rain jacket for occasional showers.
Gent at Night
Hiking in Gent
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive wetlands with boardwalks and birdwatching vantage points just outside the city—easy to moderate hikes.
Scenic walking and light hiking paths along the Leie, offering both city views and countryside feel.
Wetland and woodland trails near Ghent, suitable for day hikes and wildlife observation.
Airports
How to reach Gent by plane.
Major international hub about 50–90 minutes from Ghent by train or car; frequent connections to North Sea ports and beyond.
Coastal airport offering regional and some international services; approximately 1.5–2 hours by train from Ghent.
Smaller regional airport with limited services, reachable by train/bus from Ghent in about 1–2 hours.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large, lively student community keeps the center energetic with affordable eateries, street art, and nightlife.
A stable, family-friendly community with museums, parks, and reliable services.
Ghent’s cosmopolitan vibe attracts expats and travelers, supported by multilingual services and welcoming venues.
A steady stream of cultural travelers drawn to the city’s canal-scapes, medieval core, and culinary scene.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport across clubs and local matches; casual spectator opportunities exist around university and municipal teams.
Ghent is bike-friendly with extensive bike lanes and scenic routes; cycling is a common mode of transport and recreation.
Local clubs along the Scheldt and Leie rivers offer rowing, paddling, and water-based activities in season.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Gent.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Ghent has many veggie-forward options; look for vegetable-forward mains, cheese plates, and salads in most restaurants. Ask for seafood-free or dairy-free versions of traditional dishes, and opt for local vegetables when possible.