25 Things to Do in Ghent: Discovering the Best of Ghent
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Are you looking for things to do in Ghent? Then you’ve come to the right place!
Ghent, Belgium is known for its grand display of palaces, parks, museums, and the historical background that comes from it.
Today, besides all the historical places, Ghent is also a paradise for the gastronomic adventurer. With international and local cuisine and other sumptuous tours in the area, visiting Ghent is undoubtedly an experience you should not miss.
I live only 30 minutes from Ghent and have visited the city many times! It’s one of my favourite places in Belgium. However, if you are coming from Paris, Antwerp or Brussels, there are best transportation options to get to Ghent fast.
Join me as I list some of the most popular places I visited myself that I highly recommend for you to check when you visit Ghent.
In my list, you will find the most popular places to visit and some hidden gems in Ghent.
Let’s check them out!
THINGS TO DO IN GHENT
1. Visit the Gravensteen Castle
The Castle of the Counts stands as a remarkable example of medieval architecture in the city of Ghent. Built in the 12th century, it served as a fortress that protected the city from enemy invasions.
Over the centuries, the castle has been destroyed and rebuilt numerous times, each time with new additions and upgrades.
Inside, visitors can explore the various rooms and chambers that once housed the powerful Counts of Flanders.
The most iconic feature of the castle is the impressive Keep, which towers over the city and offers breathtaking views. But you should really come here for the impressive collection of torture equipment.
💡 Good to know: Today, the castle serves as a museum where visitors can learn about its rich history and the role it played in the city’s past. The Castle of the Counts is truly a must-see for anyone visiting Ghent. Check on special events that the museum features if you want to get the best out of this visiting experience.
THINGS TO DO IN GHENT
2. Sample Local Cuisine at the Patershol
Nestled in the Old Town, this historic area preserves much of its medieval character, with cobbled, winding streets that lead to quaint squares and unique shops. It’s one of the parts of Ghent that you should definitely visit!
The area contains a grand mixture of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture, all centered around the picturesque Leie River.
Visitors can take a walk along the riverfront or wander through the cobblestone streets of Patershol to admire the neighborhood’s unique character.
Patershol is known for its restaurants, bars, and cafés that offer a wide range of cuisines from all over the world.
Taste some of the most delicious Belgian specialties like stoemp (mashed potatoes and vegetables) and Flemish beef stew or try some Thai noodles, Spanish tapas, or Lebanese falafel.
💡 Good to know: Ghent is also famous for its Cuberdons (Neuzekes) a sweet purple type of candy, and Gentse Waterzooi a dish made of chicken or fish with potatoes and cream.
THINGS TO DO IN GHENT
3. Take a Boat Tour on the Canals of Ghent
Take in the best views of Ghent from a different perspective and hop on one of the boat tours. You can enjoy a peaceful ride while learning about the culture and history of the city.
Ghent is known as “The City with Three Rivers” because it has three rivers running through its core: The Leie, Scheldt, and Lys. Our guide gave lots of information about the city, and it’s fun to look at the city from the water.
💡 Good to know: Make sure you visit the Lightning Bird Tree Art Installation before midnight; because the lights are turned off after 12.
THINGS TO DO IN GHENT
4. Graffiti Street Art
Ghent is an absolute mecca for street art enthusiasts!
The city has designated specific areas where graffiti is legal, which has motivated street artists from Ghent but also artists from all over the world.
You should visit Werregarenstraat, also called “graffiti alley,” where you can see constantly changing artwork covering every surface.
Another great place for Street Art is The Tweebruggenstraat.
The best part? You can explore this artwork just by strolling through Ghent’s streets! Take a leisurely walk and discover hidden gems around every corner.
And for a truly immersive experience, be sure to book a guided tour that will take you to some of the most famous graffiti pieces in the city.
💡 Good to know: There is also a tour available by bike!
THINGS TO DO IN GHENT
5. St Bavo’s Cathedral
St Bavo’s Cathedral has been around since the 9th century and is one of the oldest churches in Ghent. The highlight of this church is the painting known as “The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb” by the brothers Van Eyck which hangs on its high altar. This painting is a masterpiece of the 15th century and is one of the most important works of art in Belgium.
The Van Eyck masterpiece painting is folded inward every day from 12 pm to 1 pm so visitors can see the outside panels. There are other artworks to see in the same location, including the stunning marble altar, a painting by Rubens, and works by other artists such as Lucas de Heere, Frans Pourbus the Elder, and Justus van Gent.
There are 3 types of guided tours available all using Augmented Reality. Cool!
💡 Good to know: Make sure you visit the Lightning Bird Tree Art Installation before midnight; because the lights are turned off after 12.
THINGS TO DO IN GHENT
6. Enjoy some Belgian Beer at Ghent’s Pubs and Breweries
Ghent is a city that is famous for its beer and visitors are spoilt for choice with the variety of places to go and enjoy a cold one.
For those wanting to try some of the locals’ favorites, Gentse Strop or Gouden Carolus is a must-try. Pub The Dulle Griet has the largest selection of beers in Ghent, with more than 500 different beers from Belgium and around the world.
Another place that I recommend and is worth a visit is Pub Waterhuis aan de Bierkant. This cafe has 165 types of beer available and (you can’t miss it) a cozy terrace.
For those who prefer craft beers, microbreweries like Gruut and Brouwbar are worth checking out. Not only can you sample some of Ghent’s finest craft beers, but also see the brewers in action.
💡 Good to know: If you want to experience beer crafting, be sure to check brewery workshops and tasting tours to know more about this wonderful Belgian beer culture in Ghent.
THINGS TO DO IN GHENT
7. Shop at a Local Market
Ghent is home to several markets (13 in total!) that are great places to shop for local and international products.
The Groentenmarkt, which takes place every Friday in the heart of Ghent, offers fresh fruits and vegetables from nearby farmers, as well as bread, cheeses, wines, and beers from around the region.
For those looking for a souvenir from Ghent, the Ambachtenmarkt is the perfect place to find handmade pottery, jewelry, and other handicrafts.
💡 Good to know: Try to visit the market on a Friday. The Vrijdagmarkt is another great market that takes place every Friday (and Saturday) in Sint-Jacobs, where visitors can shop for vintage clothing, antiques, and more. In addition to these weekly markets, there are also several other specialty markets held throughout the year.
THINGS TO DO IN GHENT
8. Relax at the Graslei or Korenlei
The Graslei and Korenlei are two of the most picturesque spots in Ghent. Located along the banks of the Leie River, this area is full of historic buildings, cobblestone alleys, and old-fashioned cafes.
The Graslei is lined with 17th-century houses that were once the homes of wealthy merchants, while the Korenlei was once an important center for grain trading. Today, this area is a great place to relax and take in some of Ghent’s stunning architecture.
There are plenty of restaurants where you can enjoy a leisurely lunch or dinner, as well as boat rental companies that offer tours along the river. It’s also the perfect spot to take in some of Ghent’s stunning sunsets.
💡 Good to know: Ice cream lovers will not want to miss the popular Il Postino ice cream parlor located right along the river!
THINGS TO DO IN GHENT
9. Enjoy the Finest of Ghent’s and International Art at the MSK Museum
The MSK Museum (the Municipal Museum of Fine Arts) is Ghent’s premier art museum. It is in the historic St Peter’s Abbey and boasts an impressive collection of Flemish art from the 14th to the 20th centuries.
Works by renowned painters such as Jan van Eyck, Hieronymus Bosch, Peter Paul Rubens, and Anthony van Dyck can be found in the museum’s galleries. The museum also has a large contemporary art collection which includes works by Francis Bacon, Luc Tuymans, Karel Appel, and many others.
MSK offers visitors a wide range of activities including guided tours, lectures, and workshops. It is a must-see destination for art lovers visiting Ghent.
💡 Good to know: The museum has a lovely garden and cafe which is the perfect spot to relax after a day of exploring!
THINGS TO DO IN GHENT
10. Design Museum Ghent (Temporarily Closed)
Although the museum is closed until 2026, the anticipation for the new design of the museum is creating waves among locals and foreign visitors who want to explore the art that the museum displays.
The Design Museum in Ghent is hard to miss since it is at the center of the city. It is easy to fit into your itinerary of interesting places to visit in Ghent, especially if you want to immerse yourself in both traditional and modern art.
Aside from the rich collection of Belgian art, the new design of the museum offers several open areas where art enthusiasts can congregate and share thoughts.
The goal of the museum is to establish a connection between Ghent artists and world-renowned creators.
💡 Good to know: Once the museum opens in 2026, the new museum building will have a cozy café, a terrace, a new reception area, and a souvenir shop. It is best to spend more than three hours in the museum to make sure you get the best benefit from your visit.
THINGS TO DO IN GHENT
11. Embrace the Scenic Views of Beguinage (Begijnhofdries)
Devout women in Belgium in the 13th century were given the option to come together and practice their faith the best way they can. This opened the doors to the creation of Benguinages.
These are a group of houses closely built together that are near the church.
Visting Beguinage gives you a chance to embrace the traditional life of devout women in the past and experience the solitude that they sought in the past.
Beyond faith and all, the ambiance of isolation and serenity in every Beguinage is certainly something great to experience in Ghent.
There are currently two famous Beguinages in Ghent that are open for visitors to explore.
One is the Great St. Elizabeth Beguinage which is situated in the middle of an Orthodox church, a Protestant church, and a Catholic church.
Next is the Small Beguinage Our Lady ter Hoyen which was originally established in 1235.
💡 Good to know: Make sure you visit the Lightning Bird Tree Art Installation before midnight; because the lights are turned off after 12.
THINGS TO DO IN GHENT
12. Enjoy Shows and Performances at Stadshal Ghent
Situated in the city center of Ghent, this building, which was built in the 19th century, is now being used as an events venue. From concerts to art and trade exhibitions, the Stadshal is one of the most celebrated architectural structures in the city.
If you are visiting Ghent to attend an event at the Stadshal, you ought to buy your tickets ahead of time.
💡 Good to know: Just in case you are already late in getting your passes for the event, just admiring the architectural gem that the building is an exploration worth experiencing.
THINGS TO DO IN GHENT
13. Embrace the Beauty of Nature in Several Ghent Parks
One of the great facts about Ghent is that it has a lot of parks that visitors and locals can enjoy. Among the well-known parks around the city include Citadel Park and Rabot Park.
From tranquil lakes to engaging in exciting nature adventures, visitors can do so much as they explore what every park has to offer.
Do you have children traveling with you? Visiting Ghent parks should certainly be a part of your travel itinerary. Some parks offer skating rinks and playgrounds with swings and slides, all built with the safety of the kids in place.
💡 Good to know: Ghent upholds environmental rules. So, when going around the city parks, be sure to keep your trash and throw them in the right place. There are several trash bins around the area, make sure to use them properly.
THINGS TO DO IN GHENT
14. Enjoy Different Floral Species at the Botanical Garden of Ghent
Since the beginning of 2020, the Ghent Botanical Garden and the Ghent University Museum have come to a partnership to showcase some of the most common to the most unique flora and fauna that is native to Ghent.
To get the younger generations in Ghent updated in their nature education– the Botanical Garden of Ghent also offers visitors that invigorating feeling of being in the midst of a rich collection of plants and flowers that is both serene and relaxing.
💡 Good to know: Make sure you visit the Lightning Bird Tree Art Installation before midnight; because the lights are turned off after 12.
THINGS TO DO IN GHENT
15. Visit STAM, Ghent’s City Museum
Matching history and archeology, the collection at STAM is certainly going to create an amazing experience for you, your friends, and your loved ones. It gives you a glimpse into Ghent’s past and the way archaeological artifacts give proof to the history that defines Ghent and Belgium.
Another great factor about STAM is that it is a contemporary building in an archeologically definitive environment. Ghent is certainly a city of all ages and all cultures, and the archeological makeup in the area has so much to say about this.
Also known as Ghent’s City Museum, the place is also known as the eye-catcher that can capture a wide-range image of the overall territory of Ghent City.
💡 Good to know: The best feature of the STAM is the eye-catcher. Make sure to check what it has to offer and create the best memory you could get to make your visit to Ghent something memorable.
THINGS TO DO IN GHENT
16. Enjoy the Purple ‘Noses’ -the Ghent Candy
It was an accident creating Ghent’s Sweetest product in the market. To understand more about the cuberdon Purple Noses, it is best to consider walk tours around engaging in candy-making workshops.
With its unusual color and unusual name, this raspberry cuberdon has a lot to offer, especially in creating great tasting experiences for visitors and local tourists as well.
If you want to feel that nostalgic sensation, then trying Ghent’s Purple Noses may be an experience that you may want to take note of during your visit.
💡 Good to know: Make sure you visit the Lightning Bird Tree Art Installation before midnight; because the lights are turned off after 12.
THINGS TO DO IN GHENT
17. The Old Butcher’s Hall and Ghent Traditional Products
If you are all about exploring the culture and tradition of Ghent and getting something for you to keep on the road, the best place for you to visit is the Old Butcher’s Hall where East Flemish regional products are featured.
Among the most interesting regional products found at the Old Butcher’s Hall is the Gadnda Ham which is usually hung dry and exposed to wooden rafters that certainly improve both the aroma and flavor of the meat.
After roaming around in the market, there is a small pub beside the area. T Galgenhuisje is Ghent’s smallest café. It is mostly visited for its cozy ambiance and great-tasting coffee.
💡 Good to know: Make sure you visit the Lightning Bird Tree Art Installation before midnight; because the lights are turned off after 12.
THINGS TO DO IN GHENT
18. Watch a concert at The Bijloke Music Hall
From classical to jazz and contemporary music, Bijloke Music Hall has everything to offer. With clear surround sound, the music experience in this concert hall is suitable for every music lover of different genres.
The Bijloke Music Hall embraces musical cross-overs and innovation that offer a different take on music every time. There are an average of 120 concerts each season that are performed in this concert hall. Each concert features an exceptional musician coming from both local and international bearings.
The great acoustics of the concert hall makes it one of the most important functional halls in Ghent and in Belgium. For this reason, when concerts occur in Ghent, the Bijloke Music Hall is often full.
After the concert events, there is a café and a foyer that gives visitors that genuine feel of being in Ghent and embracing the nostalgic sense of being in the city.
💡 Good to know: The Gent Jazz Festival brings in visitors from all around Belgium and several tourists from outside the country. When visiting Ghent during these times, make sure that you book your accommodations early.
THINGS TO DO IN GHENT
19. Feast Your Eyes and Taste by Exploring Dok Noord
Dok Noord is Ghent’s alternative cultural center. It’s home to a range of art galleries, trendy restaurants, and cafes, and hosts regular events such as music concerts, film screenings, and more. This place captures the city’s unique spirit so it is worth checking out.
Dok Noord begins at the river Lys bridge and passes through the neighborhoods featuring traditional Ghent architecture. Among the said neighborhoods are Heilig-Kerst and Oude Dokken.
This street used to be the busiest shopping location in Ghent. Now, you will find Etablissement du Gaz and Pauwels Trafo, both of which are Ghent-born brands.
💡 Good to know: Make sure you visit the Lightning Bird Tree Art Installation before midnight; because the lights are turned off after 12.
THINGS TO DO IN GHENT
20. Enjoy Water Sports and Explore Nature Reserves at Da Blaarmeersen Beach
Love walking around the beach and just soaking all that nature that you can get?
Blaarmeersen Beach certainly has something great to offer. The vast lake is best for those who simply want to explore the waters and enjoy the serene ambiance of nature.
Meanwhile, for sportier ones, going kayaking or swimming are among the recreations most sought after at Blaarmeersen Beach.
If you have children with you, the family sports at the water park are enjoyable choices of activities for you to consider. The Watersportbaan in Ghent along the sandy beach makes the visit worthwhile.
If you are visiting Blaarmeersen Beach for team building, the jungle trail is the best adventure for you to consider. Beyond the hike, the great scenery in the jungle is sure to keep you tuned with nature.
There is also a playground with an amazing maze that will certainly keep you up on your feet.
💡 Good to know: Book your visit to Blaarmeersen Beach early on before your arrival to make sure you enjoy all the amenities that the water and the nature reserves have to offer. When booking online, be sure to pick all the activities that you want to experience at Blaarmeersen Beach.
THINGS TO DO IN GHENT
21. Indulge in Art at the Vooruit Arts Center or Catch a Movie at Cinema Zuid
Known as the cultural center in Ghent, the Vooruit Arts Center hosts events such as music concerts as well as theatrical performances. These events also include art exhibitions.
If you feel more interested in watching movies, you may check out next door at Cinema Zuid. This well-known cinema in Belgium presents both classic and contemporary movies.
After watching the movie or the performance, finish your night at the Café. It is best to stay on the patio and feel the evening breeze as you relax and contemplate the art you just witnessed.
💡 Good to know: To get the best out of your visit, better check on both Vooruit Arts Center and Cinema Zuid’s scheduled performances and movies online to make sure you get the best experience during your visit.
THINGS TO DO IN GHENT
22. Watch a soccer match at the Ghalemco Arena
Laying just outside the city, the Ghelamco Arena held some of the most important football games in Ghent. The Arena is situated on E17 and E40 motorways.
The location of Ghaleco Arena makes it easy reach for anyone coming from all directions in the city.
For those who do not have private cars, there are free shuttle buses at the Woodrow Wilsonplein, Zuid you can ride to the arena.
Ever since 2013, the Arena has been home to the KAA Gent Football Club, making it one of the best locations for every sporting event of the year.
💡 Good to know: Securing your ticket online is always better than going to the Ghalemco Arena empty-handed. When you already have your ticket, you are sure you have a good and comfortable sit where you can enjoy the event completely.
THINGS TO DO IN GHENT
23. Visit and Explore St Peter’s Abbey and Garden
Experience the ambiance that St. Peter’s Abbey offers as you stroll along the gardens and imagine as if you are walking in another place in time. Be lost in that nostalgic place where you can find serenity and peace.
The historic garden at the Abbey includes a rich herb garden, a vineyard, and an orchard that will certainly be enjoyed by everyone from every age.
The terraced gardens around the abbey make this cemetery destination a picture-perfect location for those who want to capture their memories in photos and videos alike.
💡 Good to know: Want to experience a Sound of Music feel of invigorating sceneries during your visit? Give yourself at least one hour to an hour and a half which could easily give you a chance to explore both the interiors and the exterior grandeur of the abbey.
THINGS TO DO IN GHENT
24. Stroll by the Lightning Bird Tree Art Installation
Romantic as it feels, simply looking at lights during an evening stroll makes the Lightning Bird Tree Art Installation a central attraction at Ghent.
There is something unique and simply invigorating about the Lighting Bird Tree Installation, also known as the Les Oiseaux de Mr. Maeterlinck. It was created based on the fairy tale entitled L’Oiseau Bleu. This fairy tale highlights the meaning of happiness that was symbolized by the bluebird.
True to its meaning, looking at the Lightning Bird Tree Art Installation gives viewers that sense of peace and tranquility. Certainly, if you want to stroll along the streets of Ghent, visiting this art installation should be a part of your list of things to do in Ghent.
💡 Good to know: Make sure you visit the Lightning Bird Tree Art Installation before midnight; because the lights are turned off after 12.
THINGS TO DO IN GHENT
25. The Castle of Gerard the Devil
Don’t be misled. The name the Castle of Gerard the Devil does not mean this is a grim place to visit. Instead, it has some of the best-overlooking fortresses that feature the grand display of Ghent lights in the evening.
Because of its location in the city center, it is easy to reach and enjoy.
There had been several interchanging roles that the Castle of Gerard the Devil has played in Ghent throughout the years. From being a home for the knights to becoming an asylum for the lunatics- there are certainly great stories behind the history of this exceptional castle in Ghent.
💡 Good to know: Now, the castle is not open to the public. While waiting for it to be open for visitors to explore, you may check the Gravensteen or the Castle of the Counts, which are equally interesting, instead.
THINGS TO DO IN GHENT
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the prettiest part of Ghent?
The Graslei and Korenlei, located on the banks of the Leie River, are the prettiest part of Ghent. The cobbled streets are lined with charming buildings that date back centuries, and the quays themselves feature charming gabled houses. The views from these quays are perfectly stunning.
How many days in Ghent is enough?
Two days in Ghent is enough to enjoy the city’s historical and cultural attractions. Within two days, you can explore the major sights, take a boat tour of the old city centre or shop at one of Ghent’s many specialty stores, and sample the delicious Belgian cuisine in one of Ghent’s restaurants.
What’s Ghent famous for?
Ghent is famous for its medieval architecture and a large number of beautiful cobbled squares. It is also known for its culture, vibrant nightlife, and numerous museums and galleries.
What is the most beautiful street in Ghent?
The Serpentstraat is the most beautiful street in Ghent, Belgium. It is a narrow cobblestone street lined with colourful 17th-century buildings, giving it a unique and picturesque charm.
Is Ghent walkable?
Yes, Ghent is walkable. The city centre is compact, the streets are lined with pedestrian-friendly pathways, and many scenic parks and squares make pleasant walking routes.
When is the best time to visit Ghent?
The best time to visit Ghent is between June and October. When the weather is mild and sunny, the days are long, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Wrapping Up
Ghent is more than just an interesting destination to explore. It offers an exceptional nostalgic feel. It gives you a chance to experience the meaning of time travel by walking through the cobblestone streets and soaking your senses in grand gardens and natural reserves.
Certainly, Ghent has everything for everyone. So if you want to stay in Ghent for one more day, it is best to check the right accommodations in Ghent that will fit your adventure in the city.
Remember, when visiting Ghent, getting yourself a ticket to performances and joining walking tours can give you a full benefit from the memories you can keep as you tour one of the best destinations in Europe.
If this helped you plan your adventure, a coffee would go a long way in fueling my next guide! 😉
