Overview
Ghent is one of Belgium’s most atmospheric cities, shaped by medieval architecture, canals, lively squares and a youthful cultural energy. The historic centre feels grand yet intimate, with stone façades, bridges and towers reflecting centuries of Flemish heritage. At the same time, Ghent is vibrant and modern, driven by its university, creative communities and a relaxed lifestyle that blends tradition with contemporary flair. It is a city where history is present at every corner, but life moves with a fresh, dynamic rhythm.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Ghent is from April to October, when mild temperatures and long days make exploring the canals, historic streets and outdoor cafés comfortable. Spring brings blooming parks and soft light over the medieval skyline. Summer offers warm days and lively cultural events. Early autumn provides golden tones and a quieter pace. Winter is cool and atmospheric, ideal for travellers who enjoy cosy interiors and festive lights.
Getting around
Ghent is compact and easy to explore on foot, especially the historic centre around the Graslei, Korenlei and the castle. Trams and buses connect the wider city efficiently, while bicycles are a popular and convenient option. Movement feels smooth and intuitive, shaped by pedestrian‑friendly streets and the calm flow of the canals.
Safety and local etiquette
The city is safe and welcoming, with a friendly atmosphere typical of Flanders. Normal precautions apply, especially in busy areas or around nightlife zones. Locals appreciate politeness, respect for cycling lanes and calm behaviour in shared spaces. The environment encourages relaxed exploration and thoughtful interaction.
Food and water
Ghent offers a rich culinary scene that blends Belgian classics with modern creativity. Expect hearty dishes, fresh local produce, excellent chocolate, waffles and a wide variety of beers. The city is also known for vegetarian and vegan options, reflecting its progressive food culture. Tap water is safe and excellent. Meals feel warm, generous and rooted in Flemish tradition.
Day trips and excursions
Ghent is perfectly positioned for exploring Flanders. Bruges offers romantic canals and medieval charm. Antwerp reveals artistic heritage and vibrant urban life. Brussels provides monumental architecture and cultural diversity. The surrounding countryside offers quiet villages and scenic cycling routes. Each excursion complements Ghent’s blend of history, culture and modern energy.
Essence of Ghent
The essence of Ghent lies in its harmony between medieval grandeur and youthful vibrancy. Towers rise above canals, cafés fill historic squares and the city preserves a rhythm shaped by both heritage and creativity. It is a place where travellers slow down, enjoy simple moments and feel the warm, lively soul of Flanders. Ghent embodies the elegant, cultural and quietly captivating spirit of Belgium.
Highlights in Ghent
Located in the Flanders region, this city boasts stunning architecture, rich history, and a lively cultural scene.
One of its highlights is Gravensteen Castle, a medieval fortress offering panoramic views and fascinating exhibits. The Saint Bavo’s Cathedral houses the world-famous altarpiece, a masterpiece of Renaissance art. Strolling along the Graslei and Korenlei, visitors can admire picturesque canals and historic guild houses.
Also deserving to be visited are the Design Museum, with historic and contemporary design, Dr. Guislain museum, and the castles of Gerald the Devil and Ooidonk.
- Ghent is one of Belgium’s most historic cities and was one of Europe’s wealthiest trading centres during the Middle Ages.
- The city is known for combining medieval architecture with a vibrant student population and contemporary cultural scene.
- Ghent’s historic centre is largely pedestrian-friendly and can be comfortably explored on foot.
- Tap water is safe to drink.
- The city is home to the famous Gravensteen Castle, one of the best-preserved medieval fortresses in Belgium.
- Saint Bavo’s Cathedral houses the world-famous altarpiece The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb by the Van Eyck brothers.
- The picturesque Graslei and Korenlei waterfronts are among the most photographed locations in Belgium.
- Ghent is renowned for its lively cultural calendar, including the annual Ghent Festival (Gentse Feesten).
- Belgian chocolate, local beers, waffles, and traditional Flemish cuisine are widely available throughout the city.
- The destination is safe and visitor-friendly; normal precautions are generally sufficient.
- Credit and debit cards are widely accepted throughout the city.
- The official currency is the Euro (€).
- Ghent is ideally located between Brussels, Bruges, and Antwerp, making it an excellent base for exploring Belgium.
- Respect historic monuments, canals, cultural sites, and local residents when visiting.
Ghent enjoys a temperate oceanic climate, characterised by mild summers, cool winters, and rainfall distributed throughout the year. Its inland location, close to the North Sea, helps maintain moderate temperatures in all seasons.
- Spring (March to May) — mild temperatures, blooming parks, and excellent conditions for exploring the historic centre and canals.
- Summer (June to August) — pleasant and generally warm, with temperatures typically ranging between 18°C and 28°C. This is the best season for outdoor cafés, canal cruises, and festivals.
- Autumn (September to November) — comfortable temperatures, colourful scenery, and a relaxed atmosphere for cultural visits and photography.
- Winter (December to February) — cool conditions, with temperatures generally ranging between 0°C and 8°C. Christmas markets and seasonal events add charm to the city.
Rain can occur at any time of the year, so a light waterproof jacket is advisable regardless of the season.
Today:
Ghent – 3 great hours walking and admiring
Cathedral
Initially dedicated to St John, after several transformations, it became a collegiate church and was designated as cathedral in the 16th century.
Lieven Bawens statue
In a beautiful square with his name, there’s a statue of a politician sentenced to death in England for smuggling a new machine.
Vlerick School
The Vlerick Business School, with campuses also in Leuven, and Brussels, is located in the heart of the city’s historical center, combining architectural beauty with modern facilities. The Great Seminary building was completed in 1914, offering innovative learning experiences.
Rabot Sluice
Rabot is a centuries-old part of the city, recently restored. It celebrates the success against Maximilian of Austria that after a 40-day sieging the city withdrew without success. The city authorities then strengthened the central building by adding two towers. It has served also as a fortified bridge over the river.
Strange thing
What really is this?
A futuristic architecture fighting against the traditional image of town?
Temporary renforcement for recovery purposes?
Only an incident of bad taste?
Saint Michael
Saint Michael’s Church was built between the 15th and 17th century, in Gothic style.
The exterior is decorated with sandstone and inside, the rich Neo-Gothic decor includes an altar, pulpit, and various 18th-century statues, including famous paintings of Van Dyck and Otto Venius.
Maaseikplein
Maaseikplein was embellished in 2019, gardening a space of asphalt. Located near St Bavo’s cathedral it has several fruit trees and flowers. Many of these plants are also around Jan and Hubert Van Eyck’s famous masterpiece.
Gravensteen
The Castle of the Counts was a medieval castle dating back to 1180. It was the residence of the Counts of Flanders until 1353, and after that it was transformed into a court, prison, mint, and even a cotton factory. Restored between 1893 and 1903, it is now a museum.
Sint-Baafsplein
Sint-Baafsplein marks the birthplace of the city, where the rivers Scheldt and Leie converge. It’s home to Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, close to, the Belfry and Saint Nicholas Church.
Koningin Maria
Exiting the historic center, we caught the train in Saint Peters station, located in this modern, large and lively square. Contrasting with the classical look of town, a modern statue called “Meeting” is in evidence.
Boat tours
With so many canals running through the city, a boat trip is always a comfortable and pleasant way to visit.
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