Table of Contents
Introduction
Nestled along scenic canals in the Flanders region of Belgium, Ghent is a historic city with Gothic architecture, vibrant culture, and youthful energy. From its well-preserved medieval core to world-class museums and dynamic festivals, Ghent has plenty to offer visitors. This guide will highlight the top attractions that unveil the historic beauty and cultural delights of Ghent.
The Medieval Core
The historic center of Ghent transports you back to medieval times with its Gothic buildings and cobblestone streets. The showstopper is St. Bavo’s Cathedral, a 13th century Gothic cathedral housing the renowned Adoration of the Mystic Lamb altarpiece. Climb up the Belfry of Ghent for panoramic city views from its bell tower built in the 14th century. St. Nicholas’ Church impresses with its ornate Baroque pulpit and relics from Catholic pilgrims. And Gravensteen Castle takes you back to feudal times with its moats, turrets, torture devices, and artifacts.
Canals and Bridges
Ghent’s scenic waterways slice through the city, providing picturesque views. Boat tours are a great way to marvel at the historic facades lining the canals. The iconic St. Michael’s Bridge offers a magnificent vantage point over the intersecting canals and gabled buildings. Other notable crossings include Graslei Bridge, Meat Bridge, and Castle Bridge.
Museums and Galleries
Ghent has an impressive array of museums and galleries. The massive MSK (Museum of Fine Arts) showcases works by Belgian masters like Bruegel alongside an extensive collection of paintings and sculptures. S.M.A.K. (Museum of Contemporary Art) houses avant-garde modern and contemporary works in a minimalist setting. And the Design Museum Gent highlights both historic and cutting-edge Belgian design through 2,000 artifacts and works of art.
Food and Drink
In addition to Belgian favorites like moules-frites, waffles, and chocolate, Ghent excels with its own local delicacies. Be sure to try cubes of Ghent cheese seasoned with cloves and cumin seeds. And don’t leave without sampling beers from local breweries like Gruut, Roman, and Dok.
Shopping
Ghent offers plenty of shopping spots, from major chains to local boutiques. The historic Patershol neighborhood brims with artisan shops selling handmade crafts, vintage furniture, antiques, and more. Trendy concept stores inhabit a 15th century abbey at Dulle Griet. And flea markets likeoutfLOUT! provide the perfect hunting grounds for retro and antique finds every Sunday.
Festivals and Events
Music, theater, food, and historic reenactments take center stage during Ghent’s lively festivals. Gentse Feesten is a massive 10-day open air festival featuring concerts, food stalls, street performers, fireworks, and city-wide partying. Film Fest Gent showcases international and Belgian films, directors, and actors during its annual festival each October. And the dazzling winter Light Festival Gent illuminates the city’s historic buildings, bridges, and canals with creative light installations and projections.
Nightlife
Ghent offers buzzing nightlife, especially in the Patershol neighborhood. Historic pubs and trendy cocktail bars pack the twisting alleyways. Highlights include laidback t’Klein Cafeitje, quintessentially Belgian ‘t Dreupelkot bar, and industrial-cool T-Diel. There’s also a pumping club scene catering to students and young locals in places like Kompass Klub, Charlatan, and OFF venue.
Day Trips from Ghent
Ghent provides the perfect base to explore other Belgian highlights. The medieval splendor of Bruges with its canals and cobbled lanes is just a 35 minute train ride away. Fashionable Antwerp tempts with its diamond district, Rubens House, and avant-garde ModeMuseum. And the capital of Brussels makes an easy day trip for sights like the Grand Place, Magritte Museum, and Musical Instruments Museum.
Conclusion
With its well-preserved medieval architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and youthful spirit, Ghent unveils the historic beauty of Flanders to visitors. Wandering the Gothic quarters, gliding down the scenic waterways, and marveling at the museums provide a taste of this charming city’s rich past and dynamic present. From the raucous Gentse Feesten to laid back canalside cafes, Ghent delivers an ideal blend of history, art, and lively ambiance.
FAQs
What is Ghent best known for?
Ghent is best known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, scenic canals, and vibrant cultural festivals like the Gentse Feesten. Key highlights include St. Bavo’s Cathedral, the famous Adoration of the Mystic Lamb altarpiece, and Gravensteen Castle.
When is the best time to visit Ghent?
Late spring through early fall is the ideal time with comfortable weather and many festivals. Summer draws larger crowds but offers long days. Early fall still offers mild weather without summer crowds.
How many days do you need in Ghent?
2-3 full days allows enough time to see the medieval historic sights, take a canal boat tour, visit key museums, enjoy the food and nightlife, and make a day trip to Bruges, Antwerp, or Brussels. For a more relaxed visit, stay 4-5 days.
What is there to do in Ghent at night?
At night, explore Ghent’s lively bar and club scene, especially in the Patershol neighborhood. Historic pubs like ‘t Dreupelkot, trendy cocktail bars, and buzzing dance clubs provide late night entertainment.
What are the top day trips from Ghent?
Popular day trips are medieval Bruges, cosmopolitan Antwerp, and Belgium’s capital Brussels. Bruges is only 35 minutes by train. Antwerp and Brussels are under an hour away. Other options include Oudenaarde, Leuven, and Damme.