General Information
Ghent, one of Belgium’s most charming and underrated cities, is a vibrant mix of medieval history, stunning canals, artistic culture, and modern energy. Often overshadowed by Brussels and Bruges, Ghent is a hidden gem offering Gothic architecture, a lively student atmosphere, and an incredible culinary scene. Known for Gravensteen Castle, the iconic St. Bavo’s Cathedral, and the famous Ghent Altarpiece, the city blends historic grandeur with a young, hip spirit, making it a must-visit destination.
Location
Ghent is located in northwestern Belgium, in the region of Flanders, between Brussels (55 km) and Bruges (50 km). The city is situated at the meeting point of the Scheldt and Lys rivers, giving it a beautiful canal-lined cityscape similar to Amsterdam.
How to Get There
- By Air:
- Brussels Airport (BRU): 1-hour train ride to Ghent’s main station.
- Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL): Budget airlines land here, 90 minutes away by train or bus.
- By Train:
- Ghent-Saint-Pieters Station connects to Brussels, Antwerp, Bruges, and international cities like Paris and Amsterdam (Thalys & Eurostar).
- A 10-minute tram ride from the station to the city center.
- By Bus:
- FlixBus and Eurolines offer affordable connections from major European cities.
- By Car:
- Easily accessible via highways E17 and E40.
- Parking in the city center is limited, so park in P+R areas and use public transport.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (March – May): Pleasant weather (10°C – 20°C), perfect for outdoor walks.
- Summer (June – August): Warm (20°C – 28°C) and lively, with Ghent Festival attracting thousands.
- Autumn (September – November): Cooler (10°C – 18°C) with fewer tourists and stunning fall scenery.
- Winter (December – February): Cold (0°C – 8°C), cozy with Christmas markets and canal lights.
Key Festivals:
- Gentse Feesten (July): One of Europe’s largest cultural festivals with music, theater, and parties.
- Ghent Light Festival (Every 3 years, January/February): A breathtaking nighttime light show.
- Christmas Market (December): Festive stalls, mulled wine, and ice skating in the historic center.
Where to Stay
- Luxury:
- 1898 The Post: A stunning boutique hotel in a historic post office building.
- Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Reylof Ghent: Elegant rooms with a spa and fine dining.
- Mid-range:
- Hotel Harmony: A cozy canal-side hotel with great views.
- Yalo Urban Boutique Hotel: A trendy, design-focused hotel in the city center.
- Budget:
- Hostel Uppelink: A riverside hostel with a great social vibe.
- Treck Hostel: A unique hostel featuring themed caravan rooms.
- Unique:
- 1898 The Post (again, because it’s that special!): Historic, luxurious, and right in the heart of Ghent.
- Ganda Rooms & Suites: A charming guesthouse in a beautifully restored building.
Top Attractions
- Gravensteen Castle: A 12th-century medieval castle with turrets and a fascinating history.
- St. Bavo’s Cathedral & The Ghent Altarpiece: Home to Jan van Eyck’s world-famous masterpiece, “The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb.”
- Korenmarkt & Graslei/Korenlei: Ghent’s breathtaking riverside streets, perfect for photos.
- Belfry of Ghent: A UNESCO-listed medieval tower offering panoramic city views.
- St. Michael’s Bridge: The best viewpoint in Ghent, capturing all the main landmarks.
- Patershol: A historic quarter filled with cobblestone streets and excellent restaurants.
- Vrijdagmarkt: A lively market square with historic buildings and cafés.
- MSK Museum of Fine Arts: Features masterpieces from Rubens, Magritte, and Ensor.
- STAM Ghent City Museum: A must-visit for history lovers, detailing Ghent’s evolution.
- Graffiti Street: A constantly changing alley of street art and murals.
Getting Around
- Public Transport: Trams and buses (De Lijn) are efficient, with tickets available at kiosks.
- Biking: Ghent is bike-friendly, with rental options like Blue-bike and Donkey Republic.
- Walking: The city center is compact, making it easy to explore on foot.
- Water Tram: A fun way to see the city from the canals.
- Taxis & Ride-sharing: Available but expensive—walking and biking are better options.
Local Cuisine
- Gentse Waterzooi: A creamy chicken or fish stew, originally from Ghent.
- Cuberdons (Neuzekes): Raspberry-flavored cone-shaped sweets.
- Tierenteyn Mustard: A spicy local mustard loved by foodies.
- Belgian Fries: Served with classic mayo or andalouse sauce.
- Stoverij: A beef stew cooked in Belgian beer, served with fries.
Best Restaurants & Cafés:
- De Graslei: A charming bistro with classic Belgian dishes.
- Roots: A modern farm-to-table restaurant with creative flavors.
- De Superette: A bakery-restaurant by a Michelin-starred chef.
- Kouterhof: A great spot for Ghent-style waterzooi.
- Mokabon: The city’s oldest coffee shop, perfect for a break.
Shopping
- Veldstraat & Langemunt: The main shopping streets with fashion brands.
- Dampoort Market: A multicultural open-air market with unique finds.
- Vrijdagmarkt: Local goods, souvenirs, and Belgian chocolates.
- Bij Sint-Jacobs: A weekend flea market with vintage and antiques.
- Tierenteyn-Verlent: A historic shop selling Ghent’s famous mustard.
Nightlife
- Vooruit: A former socialist hall turned arts venue with concerts and events.
- Hot Club de Gand: A cozy jazz bar with live music.
- De Trollekelder: A quirky beer bar with hundreds of Belgian brews.
- Charlatan: A club and concert venue loved by students and locals.
- ‘t Dreupelkot: The best place to try Belgian jenever (gin-like liquor).
