15 Essentials for Visiting Ghent in Belgium

Located in the heart of Flanders, Ghent is a gem to visit in Belgium. With its canals, its typical architecture, its many remarkable buildings and its authentic atmosphere, Ghent has incredible charm. Of the quays along the Lys At belfry passing through the castle of the Countswe present to you our selection of 15 essential places to visit Ghent.

#1 Graslei and Korenlei quays

The first must-see when visiting Ghent, the Graslei and Korenlei quays are the ideal place to enjoy the charm of the city. Bordered by houses with traditional facadesthese two quays indeed offer the most pleasant walks along the Lysthe river that crosses Ghent. With restaurants and terraces, the quays are popular with tourists and locals alike. Photography enthusiasts, we recommend that you take your time along the quays. Whether during the day, at sunset or in the evening, you will have every chance of having plenty of inspiration for your photos.

#2 The Saint-Michel bridge

To benefit from a superb panorama of the Graslei and Korenlei quays, we then advise you to go up to the Saint-Michel bridge. From the building, you can indeed enjoy a postcard-worthy view of the canals but also on the main buildings of the city like the famous belfry. If you're looking for the romantic heart of Ghent, you've definitely come to the right place. On this magnificent bridge, don't miss the statue of the Archangel Michael with the dragon at his feet.

#3 The castle of the Counts

The Castle of the Counts or the Gravensteen in Dutch is one of the must-see places when visiting Ghent. This magnificent medieval castle is superbly preserved and allows a journey back in time to the Middle Ages. If you visit the Château des Comtes, you will indeed be able to immerse yourself in the culture of the 12^e century and discover the ramparts, the residence of the counts, the keep and the stables. A highlight of your visit, the castle is known for exhibiting an impressive collection of torture objects.

#4 Saint Bavo Cathedral

With his remarkable architectureSaint Bavo's Cathedral is an emblematic building in Ghent. Located opposite the famous belfry of Ghent, this cathedral is sublime with its sculptures, paintings and stained glass windows. World famous, the masterpiece “Mystical Lamb” by the Van Eyck brothers contributes greatly to the reputation of Ghent Cathedral. Made with oil paint on oak panels, this altarpiece is made up of 18 panels which represent biblical scenes in an exceptional manner. For your budget in Ghent, note that entry to Saint-Bavo Cathedral is free but you will have to pay to access the space containing the masterpiece “Mystical Lamb”. Despite everything, we recommend that you do not miss this visit during your visit to Belgium.

#5 The Belfry of Ghent

City emblemthe Belfry of Ghent is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its imposing dimensions, it seems impossible to visit Ghent without admiring its belfry. Of Gothic stylethe building was built in the 14th^e century to protect the city. Today, the dragon still watches over Ghent at the top of the building and it is possible to climb the belfry to treat yourself to a superb panorama of Ghent on a day when the climate in Belgium is pleasant. Don't miss also hearing the famous bells of the belfry, another symbol of the city.

#6 Saint Nicholas Church in Ghent

Third round of the famous trio Made up of Saint-Bavon Cathedral, the belfry and Saint-Nicolas Church, this religious building is also worth paying attention to. Of Gothic stylethe Saint-Nicolas church in Ghent is indeed a magnificent building built with Tournoi blue stone. During your visit, take the time to admire the exterior architecture of the building before freely entering the church.

#7 The historic center of Ghent

Beyond its three famous towers, Ghent also has a magnificent historic center where it is good to stroll. To visit the historic district, we suggest that you take your time as you wish in the numerous paved pedestrian streets. Don't miss admiring the facades of the houses typical Flemish architecture.

#8 A cruise on the Lys

One of the most beautiful ways to visit Ghent is to take a cruise on the Lys. Quietly installed in a small boat, you can admire the architecture of the city along the water. A cruise will give you a different perspective on the beauty of the city and you will have the opportunity to learn more about Ghent's main points of interest through commentary. We recommend this trip on the water on a day when the climate in Ghent is pleasant but be aware that umbrellas are provided in the boats in case of rain.

#9 The Museum of Fine Arts in Ghent

Ghent is also known for its wide cultural offering. Lovers of art and painting, flamingo artists are famous throughout the world. During your stay in Belgium, we advise you to visit the Museum of Fine Arts in Ghent. You will then be able to admire numerous works by Flemish and international artists. Note that if you prefer contemporary art, we suggest you opt for a visit to SMAK, one of the largest modern art museums in the country.

#10 Huis van Alijn

Another cultural visit in Ghent, the Huis van Alijn or Alijn's house in French is a museum of daily life. In this remarkable building, you can discover traditions and customs from different eras thanks to numerous ancient objects. Temporary exhibitions are regularly offered in the museum. So don't hesitate to look at the program before your trip to Ghent.

#11 Ghent City Hall

Among the remarkable buildings not to be missed when visiting Ghent, the town hall is a architectural gem. We therefore advise you to take your time to admire the immense facade of this fascinating building located a stone's throw from the belfry.

#12 Cuberdons

A must-try if you have the chance to visit Ghent, cuberdons are the gourmet specialty of the city. Conical in shape, this candy is traditionally raspberry although today you can find many flavors available. Strolling through the center, you won't be able to miss the cuberdon sellers to taste this sweet treat. During your stay in Belgium, don't hesitate to enjoy a good waffle or a cone of fries.

#13 Street art

The city of Ghent is also renowned throughout Europe for its street art. Urban art lovers, you will love your stay and be able to admire multiple works moving a little away from the historic center. Note that to discover the street art of Ghent, there is a route that you can follow on foot or by bike. This street route is available on the website of the Ghent tourist office.

#14 The Ghent Festivals

Every year in Julythe Ghent festivals liven up the city for around ten days. Between concerts, street shows, Bal 1900, international puppet festival and even food stands, the whole city lives to the rhythm of the festivities. If you travel to Belgium in July, be sure to check out the program of these important festivals among the most important popular festivals in Europe.

#15 A day trip to Bruges or Antwerp

Ghent is finally located near Bruges and Antwerp, two of the most beautiful cities in Belgium. If you have time, we advise you to organize a day trip to discover one of these towns in Flanders. HAS Bruggeyou will discover the Little Venice of the North and you will be able to enjoy the authentic atmosphere along the famous canals and in the pedestrian streets. HAS Antwerpyou will have the chance to stroll through a superb historic center, discover one of the most beautiful cathedrals in the country and visit some of the most interesting museums.

And you, what will be your program for visiting Ghent? If you need additional advice for organizing your stay, we suggest you read our article dedicated to preparing a trip to Belgium. To continue your exploration of the country, don't hesitate to discover the must-see places in Brussels or our selection of places to visit in Belgium.