Top 10 Things to Do in Ghent, Belgium
Hi there! My name is Emily and I recently visited Ghent, Belgium. I had an amazing time exploring this beautiful city and I want to share with you my top 10 things to do while you’re there. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just looking for a fun weekend getaway, Ghent has something for everyone. So, let’s get started!
Curiosities and Interesting Facts About Ghent
- Ghent is the third largest city in Belgium, after Brussels and Antwerp.
- It’s located in the Flemish Region of Belgium and is the capital of the East Flanders province.
- The city has a population of around 260,000 people.
- Ghent was once one of the richest cities in Europe during the Middle Ages, thanks to its textile industry.
- It’s also known for its medieval architecture, canals, and delicious food.
1. Visit Gravensteen Castle
One of the top attractions in Ghent is Gravensteen Castle, which was built in the 12th century. It’s a well-preserved castle with a moat, drawbridge, and towers that you can climb for a great view of the city. Inside, you’ll find a museum with exhibits about the castle’s history and the medieval period in general.
I did this on my first day in Ghent and it was a great way to get a sense of the city’s history and architecture. I highly recommend it!
2. Stroll Through the Historic Center
Ghent’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and for good reason. It’s filled with stunning architecture from various periods, including Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque. You’ll also find charming cobblestone streets, canals, and squares with outdoor cafes.
I spent an entire day just wandering around and taking in the sights. It’s a great way to get a sense of the city’s vibe and find some hidden gems.
3. Try Some Belgian Waffles
No trip to Belgium is complete without trying some of their famous waffles. Ghent has no shortage of places to indulge in this sweet treat. You can find traditional waffles with powdered sugar and whipped cream, or more elaborate ones with fruit, chocolate, and other toppings.
I have a bit of a sweet tooth, so I made it my mission to try as many waffles as possible while I was there. My favorite was from a small street vendor near St. Bavo’s Cathedral.
4. Visit St. Bavo’s Cathedral
This stunning cathedral is a must-visit for anyone interested in art or history. It’s home to several famous works of art, including The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb by Jan van Eyck. The cathedral also has a rich history, dating back to the 10th century.
I’m not usually a fan of museums or art galleries, but I found this cathedral to be truly breathtaking. Even if you’re not a history buff, I think you’ll appreciate the beauty of the architecture and art inside.
5. Take a Boat Tour
Ghent is often called the Venice of the North because of its many canals. One of the best ways to see the city from a different perspective is to take a boat tour. You’ll get to see some of the city’s most beautiful buildings and bridges from the water.
I did this on a sunny afternoon and it was one of the highlights of my trip. The tour guide was knowledgeable and funny, and I learned a lot about the city’s history and architecture.
6. Visit the Design Museum
If you’re a fan of design or contemporary art, you’ll love the Design Museum in Ghent. It has a collection of over 20,000 objects from the 15th century to the present day, including furniture, textiles, and graphic design. There are also temporary exhibitions that showcase the work of up-and-coming designers.
I’m a graphic designer myself, so I was really excited to visit this museum. It did not disappoint! The collection is impressive and the exhibitions are well-curated.
7. Eat Some Belgian Chocolate
Belgium is known for its chocolate, and Ghent is no exception. There are plenty of chocolate shops and cafes where you can indulge in some of the finest chocolate in the world. Whether you prefer dark, milk, or white chocolate, you’re sure to find something you love.
I’m a bit of a chocoholic, so I made sure to try as many varieties as possible. My favorite was from a small chocolate shop near the Design Museum.
8. Visit the Ghent Altarpiece
The Ghent Altarpiece, also known as the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb, is a world-famous piece of art that’s housed in St. Bavo’s Cathedral. It was painted by Jan and Hubert van Eyck in the 15th century and is considered one of the most important works of art in Europe.
I mentioned this earlier, but I think it deserves its own section. Even if you’re not a fan of art, I think you’ll appreciate the beauty and significance of this piece.
9. Drink Some Belgian Beer
Belgium is also known for its beer, and Ghent has plenty of bars and breweries where you can try some of the best. Whether you prefer a light lager or a dark ale, there’s something for everyone.
I’m not a big beer drinker myself, but I did try a few local brews while I was there. I particularly enjoyed the cherry beer, which was sweet and refreshing.
10. Visit the SMAK Museum
The SMAK Museum is Ghent’s contemporary art museum and is home to a collection of over 2,000 works from the 20th and 21st centuries. It’s located in a beautiful modernist building and has both permanent and temporary exhibitions.
I’m not usually a fan of contemporary art, but I was pleasantly surprised by this museum. The exhibitions were thought-provoking and there were some really interesting installations.
FAQs
What’s the best time of year to visit Ghent?
The best time to visit Ghent is in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists. The summer months can be crowded and hot, while the winter months can be cold and rainy.
What’s the best way to get around Ghent?
Ghent is a very walkable city, so I recommend exploring on foot as much as possible. There are also plenty of bike rental shops if you prefer to cycle. Public transportation is also available, including buses and trams.
What’s the currency in Ghent?
The currency in Belgium is the Euro (EUR).
What’s the best way to get from the airport to Ghent?
The easiest way to get from the Brussels Airport to Ghent is by train. There are direct trains that run every hour and the journey takes around 1 hour. You can buy tickets at the airport or online.
Is English widely spoken in Ghent?
Yes, English is widely spoken in Ghent, especially in tourist areas. Most signs and menus are also in English, so you shouldn’t have any trouble communicating.
Can you recommend any good restaurants in Ghent?
There are so many great restaurants in Ghent that it’s hard to pick just a few! Some of my favorites were De Superette, which has amazing bread and pastries, and Balls & Glory, which serves delicious meatballs. For a fancy dinner, I recommend Volta.
What’s the nightlife like in Ghent?
Ghent has a vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars and clubs to choose from. The city is known for its craft beer scene, so be sure to check out some of the local breweries. The Overpoort area is popular with students and has a variety of bars and clubs.
What’s the dress code in Ghent?
Ghent is a fairly casual city, so you don’t need to dress up too much. However, if you plan on visiting some of the nicer restaurants or clubs, it’s a good idea to bring some dressier clothes.
Is Ghent safe for tourists?
Yes, Ghent is a very safe city for tourists. However, like any city, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic safety precautions.