Ghent

Belgium

About Ghent

Ghent is a vibrant university city in East Flanders that perfectly balances medieval grandeur with youthful energy. Once one of the largest and richest cities in Europe, it boasts an impressive skyline of towers, a stunning waterfront, and a thriving arts and music scene.

Less touristy than Bruges but equally beautiful, Ghent is known for its lively student culture, excellent vegetarian food scene, and the world-famous Ghent Altarpiece by the Van Eyck brothers. It feels authentic, affordable, and endlessly explorable.

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Quick Tips

Currency: Euro (EUR). Cards are widely accepted. Some smaller bars and market stalls may be cash-only.
Transport: Ghent's center is largely car-free. Walk or rent a bike — the city has excellent cycling infrastructure. Trams connect the station to the center.
Tipping: Service is included. Rounding up is appreciated but not obligatory.
Veggie Thursday: Ghent is the world's first city to officially promote a weekly vegetarian day (Donderdag Veggiedag). Many restaurants offer special veggie menus on Thursdays.
Waterfront: The Graslei and Korenlei waterfront is the social heart of the city. Grab a beer at one of the terraces and watch the boats go by.

Interesting Places to Visit

St. Bavo's Cathedral & The Ghent Altarpiece

Home to the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb by Hubert and Jan van Eyck, one of the most important artworks in history. The cathedral itself is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Timed entry tickets required for the altarpiece.

Gravensteen (Castle of the Counts)

A imposing 12th-century medieval castle in the heart of the city. Explore the battlements, torture museum, and enjoy panoramic rooftop views. One of Ghent's most iconic landmarks.

Graslei & Korenlei

The stunning medieval waterfront with beautifully preserved guild houses from the 12th–17th centuries. Best seen from a canal boat or while enjoying a drink at one of the many terraces. Magical when illuminated at night.

Design Museum Gent

A fascinating museum spanning Art Nouveau to contemporary design. Housed in a beautiful 18th-century mansion with a modern wing. Excellent temporary exhibitions alongside the permanent collection.

Saint Nicholas' Church

One of Ghent's three famous towers, built in distinctive Scheldt Gothic style using blue-grey Tournai limestone. The interior has been beautifully restored. Forms part of Ghent's iconic three-tower skyline.

Patershol

A charming maze of narrow cobblestone streets and tiny squares dating from the Middle Ages. Now filled with excellent restaurants and atmospheric bars. One of the best-preserved medieval neighborhoods in Belgium.

S.M.A.K. (Museum of Contemporary Art)

One of Belgium's leading contemporary art museums, featuring works by Bacon, Beuys, Panamarenko, and more. Bold exhibitions in a striking modernist building in the Citadelpark area.

When to Visit

Ghent is a year-round destination with a lively atmosphere in every season:

🌸 Spring (March – May)

Excellent time to visit. Mild weather (8–18°C), blooming flower markets, and the Graslei terraces start filling up. The city feels alive without summer crowds.

Flower markets along the canals
Outdoor terraces reopen
Easter events and markets

☀️ Summer (June – August)

Warmest (15–24°C) and most festive. The Gentse Feesten (Ghent Festival) in July is one of Europe's largest cultural festivals — ten days of free music, theater, and street performances.

Gentse Feesten (mid-July, 10 days)
Canal-side dining and nightlife
Long summer evenings on the Graslei

🍂 Autumn (September – November)

Cool and beautiful (5–15°C). Students return, bringing energy to the city. Golden light on the medieval buildings makes for stunning photography. Film festival season.

Ghent Film Festival (October)
Autumn colors in Citadelpark
Cozy evenings in Patershol restaurants

❄️ Winter (December – February)

Cold (0–6°C) but atmospheric. The Christmas market along Sint- Baafsplein and Korenmarkt is festive without being overwhelming. The illuminated buildings along the waterfront are magical.

Ghent Christmas Market (Dec)
Ghent Light Festival (biennial, Jan)
Warm waffles and hot chocolate

Where to Eat (Affordable & Good)

Ghent has one of Belgium's best food scenes, with excellent options for every budget and diet:

Balls & Glory$ – $$

Creative Belgian meatball restaurant. Choose from rotating flavors served with mashed potatoes and a fresh salad. Vegetarian balls available too. A fun, hearty meal for around €15.

De Frietketel$

Ghent's most famous friterie, serving perfect double-fried frites with homemade sauces. The stoofvleessaus (stew sauce) is legendary. A large portion from €4. Simple, delicious, no-frills.

Amadeus$$

All-you-can-eat spareribs in a beautiful Art Nouveau setting. Generous portions with excellent sides and salad. A Ghent institution since 1986. Around €22 for the full experience.

Soup Lounge$

Cozy spot near Gravensteen serving freshly made soups with bread. Daily rotating menu with vegetarian and vegan options. A warming bowl of soup with bread from €6. Perfect for a quick lunch.

Komkommertijd$ – $$

Charming vegetarian restaurant in a historic building. Creative seasonal dishes using local produce. Ghent's veggie culture at its best. Lunch menus from €13.

Julie's House$ – $$

Hugely popular brunch spot near the Korenmarkt. Excellent pancakes, eggs, and homemade granola. Beautiful interior with mismatched vintage furniture. Weekend brunch around €14.

Café Labath$

Specialty coffee roaster and café with excellent pastries and light lunches. A favorite among Ghent's creative crowd. Great terrace for people-watching. Coffee and cake around €7.