Ghent: Belgium's Best Kept Secret - A Medieval Marvel Waiting to Be Discovered
Table of Contents
Introduction: Why Ghent?
Nestled in the Flemish region of Belgium, Ghent (or Gent in Dutch) is that rare European city that has managed to preserve its medieval soul while embracing modernity with open arms. Unlike its more famous neighbors Bruges and Brussels, Ghent remains somewhat of an insider's secret—a city where Gothic spires pierce the sky, canals mirror centuries-old facades, and a vibrant student population keeps the atmosphere refreshingly authentic.
What makes Ghent truly special is its perfect balance. Here, you'll find one of Europe's most impressive medieval architectures without the overwhelming tourist crowds. The city center feels like a living museum, yet it pulses with contemporary energy. By day, you can explore castles and cathedrals; by night, the same streets come alive with innovative restaurants, cozy pubs, and cultural events that would rival any major European capital.
The city's vibe is difficult to pin down—it's simultaneously historic and forward-thinking, romantic and practical, tranquil and lively. The local community takes immense pride in their city, and it shows in the meticulously maintained buildings, the quality of dining establishments, and the general warmth extended to visitors. Ghent has managed to avoid becoming a tourist theme park while still offering everything a traveler could want.
Perhaps most remarkably, Ghent feels discovered but not overrun. You can still have moments of quiet contemplation in stunning medieval squares, find tables at excellent restaurants without reservations weeks in advance, and engage in genuine interactions with locals who aren't exhausted by tourism. It's this authenticity that makes Ghent not just worth visiting, but worth savoring slowly.
Local Insight: Ghent natives are known for their down-to-earth attitude and dry humor. Don't be surprised if you strike up a conversation in one of the many pubs—they're generally fluent in English and happy to share their city's secrets with respectful visitors.
How to Get to Ghent
Ghent's central location in Western Europe makes it remarkably accessible from various entry points. The city's efficient transportation infrastructure ensures that getting there—and getting around once you've arrived—is straightforward and comfortable.
Nearest Airports
Brussels Airport (BRU)
Distance: 55 km / 34 miles
Travel Time to Ghent: 45-60 minutes by train
Best For: International travelers
Notes: Direct trains to Ghent run every 30 minutes from the airport's train station located beneath the terminal.
Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL)
Distance: 95 km / 59 miles
Travel Time to Ghent: 90 minutes by shuttle + train
Best For: Budget airline passengers
Notes: Requires a shuttle bus to Brussels Midi station, then a train to Ghent.
Antwerp International Airport (ANR)
Distance: 60 km / 37 miles
Travel Time to Ghent: 75 minutes by public transport
Best For: Regional European flights
Notes: Limited destinations but less crowded.
By Train
Ghent is exceptionally well-connected by rail, with two main stations:
- Gent-Sint-Pieters: The main station serving national and international routes, located about 2km south of the historic center. This stunning art nouveau building is worth visiting in its own right.
- Gent-Dampoort: Secondary station with connections to destinations in northern Belgium and the Netherlands.
Train travel times from major cities:
| From | Travel Time | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Brussels | 30-40 minutes | Every 15-20 minutes |
| Bruges | 25 minutes | Every 30 minutes |
| Antwerp | 50 minutes | Every 30 minutes |
| Amsterdam | 2.5 hours | Every hour |
| Paris | 2 hours | Every 1-2 hours |
By Car
Driving to Ghent is straightforward thanks to Belgium's excellent highway system. Approximate drive times:
- From Brussels: 45 minutes
- From Bruges: 30 minutes
- From Antwerp: 50 minutes
- From Amsterdam: 2 hours
- From Paris: 3 hours
Parking Tip: Driving in Ghent's historic center is restricted. Use the P+R (Park and Ride) facilities on the city outskirts—they're affordable and include a tram ticket to the city center.
Local Transportation
Once in Ghent, you have multiple options for getting around:
Walking
The historic center is compact and largely pedestrianized, making walking the best way to explore. Most major attractions are within 15-20 minutes of each other.
Bicycles
Ghent is extremely bike-friendly with dedicated lanes everywhere. Rent from companies like Max Mobiel or use the city's bike-share system, Billy Bike.
Trams & Buses
Operated by De Lijn, these are perfect for longer distances. Purchase tickets via their app, at stations, or on board (more expensive).
Where to Stay in Ghent
Ghent offers accommodation options for every taste and budget, from luxurious five-star hotels housed in historic buildings to cozy family-run B&Bs. The city is divided into distinct neighborhoods, each with its own character and advantages.
Neighborhood Guide: The historic center (Patershol, Graslei area) offers ultimate convenience but can be noisier. The student area around Blandijnberg is lively and more affordable. The area near Gent-Sint-Pieters station provides easy access to transportation with lower prices.
Luxury Hotels
1898 The Post
Location: Graslei
Price Range: €250-400/night
Highlights: Housed in the former post office with stunning views of the canal, luxurious rooms with four-poster beds, exclusive cocktail bar.
Ghent Marriott Hotel
Location: Korenlei
Price Range: €200-350/night
Highlights: Prime location on the river, spacious rooms, excellent service, beautiful historic building with modern amenities.
Mid-Range Hotels
Ghent River Hotel
Location: Graslei
Price Range: €120-200/night
Highlights: Canalfront location, stylish design, some rooms with balconies overlooking the water, excellent value.
Hotel Harmony
Location: Kraanlei
Price Range: €100-180/night
Highlights: Rooftop terrace, combination of historic architecture with modern comfort, located in quiet area but close to attractions.
Budget Options
Hostel Uppelink
Location: Sint-Michielsplein
Price Range: €25-60/night
Highlights: Unbeatable view of Ghent's three towers, both dorm and private rooms, social atmosphere, free walking tours.
Hotel Flandria
Location: Near Gent-Sint-Pieters
Price Range: €70-110/night
Highlights: Simple but comfortable rooms, family-run, excellent public transport connections, free breakfast.
Unique & Boutique Stays
Ghent Aparthotel Monasterium
Location: Oude Houtlei
Price Range: €150-250/night
Highlights: Housed in a converted monastery with peaceful cloister garden, apartment-style rooms with kitchenettes, unique historical atmosphere.
B&B The Verhaegen
Location: Patershol
Price Range: €100-160/night
Highlights: 18th-century townhouse in Ghent's most charming neighborhood, personalized service, antique-filled rooms, homemade breakfast.
What to See: Main Attractions
Ghent's historic center contains one of Europe's largest and most impressive collections of medieval architecture. The following attractions represent the must-see sights that define the city's character and history.
Saint Bavo's Cathedral (Sint-Baafskathedraal)
This magnificent Gothic cathedral is home to Ghent's most famous treasure: the Ghent Altarpiece (also known as The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb). Created by brothers Hubert and Jan van Eyck in 1432, this polyptych is considered one of the most important paintings in art history and a masterpiece of the early Northern Renaissance. The cathedral itself is an architectural marvel, with construction spanning from the 10th to 16th centuries, resulting in a fascinating blend of Romanesque crypt and soaring Gothic nave.
Visitor Tips: Purchase tickets online to avoid queues, especially for viewing the altarpiece. Allow at least 90 minutes to fully appreciate both the artwork and the cathedral's architecture. The audio guide provides excellent context for understanding the altarpiece's symbolism and history.
Gravensteen Castle (Castle of the Counts)
This imposing medieval fortress looks like it's straight out of a fairy tale, with its dramatic moat, towering walls, and turrets. Built in 1180 by Philip of Alsace, Count of Flanders, it was modeled after crusader castles he encountered in the Middle East. The castle served as the seat of the Counts of Flanders for centuries before falling into disrepair, nearly being demolished, and eventually being restored in the late 19th century.
Highlights: The ramparts offer spectacular 360-degree views of Ghent, the collection of medieval weapons and torture instruments provides fascinating (if sometimes grim) insight into castle life, and the audio guide—narrated by Flemish comedian Wouter Deprez—adds humor and personality to the experience.
Belfry of Ghent (Belfort)
As one of Belgium's three UNESCO-listed belfries (along with Bruges and Mons), Ghent's 91-meter-tall bell tower symbolizes the city's wealth and independence during the Middle Ages. Construction began in 1313 and continued intermittently for decades, resulting in a structure that showcases the transition from Gothic to Renaissance architecture. Climb the 366 steps (or take the elevator partway) to be rewarded with what many consider the best view in Ghent.
Interesting Fact: The dragon weathervane at the top has become the symbol of the city. The belfry houses the great bell Roland, which once called citizens to arms or warned of danger, and a 54-bell carillon that still gives regular concerts.
Saint Nicholas' Church (Sint-Niklaaskerk)
This magnificent example of Scheldt Gothic architecture is notable for its central tower with four corner turrets and its blue-gray stone from Tournai. The church was built between the 13th and 15th centuries, funded by wealthy merchants and guilds, reflecting Ghent's medieval prosperity. Recently restored after decades of work, the interior now reveals its original splendor, with beautiful stained glass windows and graceful vaulting.
Architectural Note: The church's distinctive tower was strategically placed at the intersection of two important medieval trade routes, making it a focal point of the city skyline between the Belfry and Saint Bavo's Cathedral.
Graslei and Korenlei
These two quays facing each other across the Leie River form what is arguably one of Europe's most beautiful urban landscapes. Lined with impeccably preserved guild houses dating from the 12th to 17th centuries, this area was the commercial heart of medieval Ghent. Each building tells a story of the trade guild that constructed it—from grain measurers to free boatmen.
Best Experience: Visit at different times of day—morning light illuminates the Graslei side, while sunset bathes the Korenlei in golden light. In warmer months, join the locals sitting along the quay walls, enjoying the view with a drink in hand.
Museum of Fine Arts (MSK)
Housed in a beautiful neoclassical building in the Citadelpark, MSK boasts an impressive collection of art from the Middle Ages to the mid-20th century. The museum is particularly strong in Flemish Primitive and Renaissance works, with pieces by Hieronymus Bosch, Peter Paul Rubens, and of course, the van Eycks. The modern collection includes works by Belgian Symbolists and Expressionists.
Don't Miss: "The Calvary of Hendrik van Rijn" by Hieronymus Bosch, a triptych that showcases his unique imagination, and the collection of works by Flemish Expressionists that provides a fascinating counterpoint to the German movement.
Things to Do: Activities & Experiences
Beyond visiting the major sights, Ghent offers countless experiences that will help you connect with the city's unique character. From tranquil moments in hidden gardens to vibrant nightlife, there's something for every type of traveler.
Outdoor Activities
Boat Tours
See Ghent from its waterways with a guided boat tour. Multiple companies offer 40-minute tours that provide unique perspectives of the city's architecture and history. The guides typically share entertaining stories and historical insights you wouldn't get elsewhere.
Citadelpark
This expansive English-style landscape garden is perfect for a leisurely stroll, picnic, or moment of relaxation. The park houses several museums and features beautiful ponds, bridges, and sculptures. It's particularly stunning during cherry blossom season.
Bourgoyen-Ossemeersen Nature Reserve
Located on the city's outskirts, this 230-hectare nature reserve offers peaceful walking and cycling paths through wetlands that attract numerous bird species. It's a wonderful escape from the urban environment.
Tours & Guided Experiences
Free Walking Tours
Several companies offer "pay-what-you-feel" walking tours that cover the historic center. These 2-3 hour tours provide excellent orientation and historical context. Guides work for tips, so they're typically engaging and knowledgeable.
Food Tours
Sample Ghent's culinary specialties with guided tours that visit chocolatiers, bakeries, and specialty shops. Many include samples of local favorites like cuberdons (cone-shaped raspberry candies), Belgian fries, and artisanal chocolate.
Evening Ghost Tours
Discover Ghent's darker history with guided walks that focus on legends, mysteries, and ghost stories. These theatrical tours are especially atmospheric when the medieval buildings are illuminated at night.
Seasonal Activities
Ghent Festival (Gentse Feesten)
For ten days in July, the city transforms into one of Europe's largest street festivals with music, theater, street performers, and celebrations throughout the historic center. Book accommodation well in advance if visiting during this period.
Christmas Market
From late November through December, Ghent's squares host a magical Christmas market with ice skating rinks, festive lights, mulled wine stalls, and artisanal gifts. The atmosphere is more intimate than many European Christmas markets.
Ghent Light Plan
Year-round, but most spectacular after dark, the city's monuments are illuminated by an artistic lighting scheme that highlights architectural details and creates magical reflections on the canals. Take an evening stroll to appreciate this free spectacle.
Nightlife
Ghent's large student population ensures a vibrant nightlife scene that caters to diverse tastes. The areas around Overpoortstraat are known for student bars and clubs, while more sophisticated cocktail bars and traditional brown cafes can be found throughout the historic center.
Local Experience: Visit a traditional "brown cafe" (named for nicotine-stained walls)—these cozy pubs serve Belgian beers in an authentic atmosphere. Try local specialties like Gruut, a beer brewed in Ghent using medieval herbs instead of hops.
Food & Drink in Ghent
Ghent has emerged as a culinary destination in its own right, with an exciting food scene that honors traditional Flemish cuisine while embracing innovation. The city is particularly known for its vegetarian-friendly culture and commitment to local, sustainable ingredients.
Traditional Dishes to Try
- Waterzooi: A creamy stew originally made with fish (now often chicken), vegetables, and herbs. This is Ghent's signature dish.
- Stoverij: Belgian beef stew cooked in dark beer, typically served with fries.
- Gentse neuzen: Cone-shaped raspberry candies with a soft interior and hard sugar shell, known as "Ghent noses."
- Pralines: Belgium's famous chocolates, available in countless varieties at specialty shops throughout the city.
- Witloof met kaassaus: Belgian endive wrapped in ham and covered in cheese sauce, then baked until bubbly.
Recommended Restaurants
| Restaurant | Cuisine | Price Range | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| De Vitrine | Modern European | €€€ | Michelin-starred tasting menus, innovative Flemish cuisine, elegant setting |
| 't Oud Clooster | Traditional Belgian | €€ | Authentic waterzooi, historic building near Gravensteen, cozy atmosphere |
| Avalon | Vegetarian | € | Extensive vegetarian buffet, organic options, budget-friendly |
| Mosquito Coast | World Fusion | €€ | Creative global dishes, vibrant atmosphere, extensive cocktail menu |
| Frituur Jozef | Fast Food | € | Authentic Belgian fries with numerous sauces, local favorite |
Bars & Cafés
Dulle Griet
Type: Traditional pub
Specialty: Over 500 Belgian beers
Note: Famous for serving Max van het Huis—a beer that comes in a special glass requiring customers to surrender one shoe as collateral.
't Dreupelkot
Type: Specialty bar
Specialty: Jenever (Belgian gin)
Note: Over 200 varieties of this traditional spirit, with passionate owner Pol who guides selections.
Charlie's
Type: Cocktail bar
Specialty: Creative cocktails
Note: Atmospheric speakeasy-style bar with excellent mixologists and vintage decor.
Markets & Street Food
Ghent's markets offer excellent opportunities to sample local products and experience the city like a local:
- Friday Market (Vrijdagmarkt): The city's main square hosts a weekly market every Friday morning and Saturday, with food stalls, flowers, and household goods.
- Beverhoutplein Market: Daily covered market with fresh produce, cheese, meat, and fish stalls—perfect for assembling a picnic.
- Bloemenmarkt: Sunday flower market along the Kouter, complemented by a brass band performance when weather permits.
Shopping in Ghent
From international brands to unique local artisans, Ghent offers diverse shopping experiences. The city's compact center makes it easy to explore different shopping districts on foot.
Shopping Districts
Veldstraat
The main shopping street with international chains and department stores. Gets crowded on weekends but offers comprehensive shopping for everyday needs.
Langemunt
Connects Veldstraat to the Korenmarkt, featuring a mix of familiar brands and smaller boutiques in a more relaxed atmosphere.
Patershol
The historic neighborhood offers unique boutiques, antique shops, and art galleries housed in charming medieval buildings.
Local & Artisanal Shops
Huis van Lelia
Products: Perfume and skincare
Location: Jan Breydelstraat
Note: Create custom fragrances or choose from their line of natural products made in Ghent.
Tierenteyn-Verlent
Products: Mustard
Location: Groentenmarkt
Note: Family business since 1790 producing traditional spicy mustard—a perfect edible souvenir.
Wonderville
Products: Art prints and design objects
Location: Serpentstraat
Note: Curated selection of work by local designers and artists, perfect for unique gifts.
Souvenir Ideas
- Gentse neuzen: The cone-shaped raspberry candies available at specialty sweet shops.
- Belgian chocolate: Skip the airport chocolates and visit local chocolatiers like Van Hecke or Van Hoorebeke.
- Ghent mustard: Tierenteyn-Verlent's signature spicy mustard comes in decorative jars.
- Local beer: Gruut brewery offers beers made with medieval recipes—perfect for beer enthusiasts.
- Art and design: Support local artists by purchasing prints, ceramics, or jewelry from boutiques in Patershol.
Culture & Local Life
Ghent's cultural scene is dynamic and diverse, fueled by its large student population and proud Flemish identity. Understanding the city's cultural context will enrich your visit and help you connect more deeply with the local experience.
Festivals & Events
Ghent hosts numerous festivals throughout the year that showcase its vibrant cultural life:
- Gentse Feesten: The massive 10-day summer festival transforms the entire city center with street performers, music stages, theater, and celebrations. It attracts about 1.5 million visitors annually.
- Ghent Festival of Flanders (Gent Festival van Vlaanderen): A classical music festival held in September, featuring international performers in historic venues throughout the city.
- Ghent Light Festival: Every three years (next in 2025), the city becomes an open-air gallery of light installations and projections on its historic buildings.
- Patersholfeesten: A neighborhood festival in the historic Patershol district with food stalls, music, and open houses in typically private courtyards.
Art & Music Scene
Beyond its renowned museums, Ghent has a thriving contemporary art scene. The SMAK (Municipal Museum of Contemporary Art) showcases cutting-edge works by Belgian and international artists. Numerous smaller galleries throughout the city, particularly in the Bijloke area, feature emerging talents.
The music scene is equally vibrant, with venues ranging from classical concert halls in historic buildings to intimate jazz clubs and rock venues. Vooruit Arts Center—a stunning art nouveau building—hosts diverse performances and has played an important role in Ghent's cultural life for over a century.
Local Stories & Legends
Ghent's history is filled with colorful characters and events that continue to shape the city's identity:
- Noordervolk: The people of Ghent are sometimes called "Noordervolk" (people of the nose), possibly referencing the shape of the cuberdon candy or their perceived tendency to be "nosy."
- Charles V: The Holy Roman Emperor was born in Ghent in 1500. After a citizen revolt, he famously punished the city by making the nobles walk through the streets with nooses around their necks—an event still referenced today.
- The Dragon of the Belfry: The golden dragon atop the belfry has watched over the city since 1377 and has become Ghent's protector and symbol.
Cultural Insight: Ghent residents are proud of their city's rebellious history and independent spirit. They affectionately refer to their home as "the arrogant city"—a nickname that reflects both their pride and self-deprecating humor.
Practical Information
A smooth trip requires some practical knowledge. Here's essential information to help you plan and navigate your visit to Ghent.
Safety
Ghent is generally very safe, even at night. However, as with any popular tourist destination, take standard precautions:
- Watch for pickpockets in crowded areas and on public transportation
- Be cautious when cycling until you're familiar with local traffic patterns
- Keep valuables secure and don't leave belongings unattended
- Emergency number: 112 for police, fire, or medical emergencies
Money Matters
- Currency: Euro (€)
- Credit Cards: Widely accepted, though some smaller establishments may only accept cash or Belgian debit cards
- ATMs: Readily available throughout the city; use machines attached to banks for security
- Tipping: Service is included in bills, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% for excellent service is appreciated
City Cards & Transportation Passes
Ghent City Card
Cost: €35 (48 hours), €42 (72 hours)
Includes: Entry to all major museums and attractions, public transportation, boat tour, and guidebook.
Best For: Visitors planning to see multiple paid attractions.
De Lijn Passes
Options: Single tickets, day passes, 3-day passes
Coverage: All trams and buses in Ghent and throughout Flanders.
Tip: Purchase via the De Lijn app for convenience and lower prices.
Weather & Best Times to Visit
| Season | Weather | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Mar-May) | Mild, 8-18°C (46-64°F) | Beautiful blooms, fewer crowds, ideal for walking |
| Summer (Jun-Aug) | Warm, 15-23°C (59-73°F) | Festival season, longest days, most crowded |
| Autumn (Sep-Nov) | Cool, 6-18°C (43-64°F) | Beautiful foliage, cultural events, moderate crowds |
| Winter (Dec-Feb) | Cold, 1-6°C (34-43°F) | Christmas markets, shortest days, least crowded |
Hidden Gems of Ghent
Beyond the main tourist trail, Ghent hides numerous treasures that offer more intimate experiences of the city. These lesser-known spots provide opportunities to escape the crowds and discover Ghent's authentic character.
Secret Courtyards & Alleys
Beguinage of Our Lady of Ter Hooyen
While the larger Sint-Amandsberg beguinage is more famous, this smaller, more intimate version offers peaceful cobblestone paths and whitewashed houses around a central green. It feels frozen in time and is rarely crowded.
Alley of the Wretched (Gangsken der Ellendigen)
This narrow alley near the Gravensteen reveals a hidden courtyard that once provided housing for the poor. It's easy to miss but offers a glimpse into the social history of the city.
Quiet Parks & Gardens
Koningin Astridpark
Located behind Sint-Pieters station, this beautifully landscaped park features ponds, bridges, and a rose garden. It's popular with locals but unknown to most tourists, offering a peaceful retreat.
Plantentuin Universiteit Gent
The university's botanical garden features greenhouses with exotic plants and outdoor gardens organized by geographic origin. It's both educational and tranquil.
Unusual Museums & Viewpoints
House of Alijn (Huis van Alijn)
This museum of everyday life is housed in a former children's hospital and focuses on 20th-century domestic life through reconstructed interiors and personal stories. It's more intimate and engaging than typical history museums.
Ghent University Library Tower
While not regularly open to the public, special events sometimes allow access to the top of the university library's book tower—offering a unique perspective on the city skyline different from the belfry view.
Suggested Itineraries for Ghent
To help you make the most of your time, here are several itinerary options tailored to different interests and durations. These suggestions can be mixed and matched according to your preferences.
24-Hour Express Itinerary
Morning (8:30 AM - 12:30 PM): Start at Saint Bavo's Cathedral to see the Ghent Altarpiece (book tickets in advance). Walk to the Belfry for panoramic city views. Stroll through the Friday Market square.
Lunch (12:30 - 1:30 PM): Quick but authentic lunch at a frituur for Belgian fries or a street food stall in the market.
Afternoon (1:30 - 5:00 PM): Explore Gravensteen Castle, then wander along Graslei and Korenlei. Take a short boat tour to see the city from the water.
Evening (5:00 PM onwards): Dinner at a traditional restaurant for waterzooi, followed by drinks at a brown cafe like Dulle Griet.
2-Day Perfect Introduction
Day 1: Follow the 24-hour itinerary above, but at a more relaxed pace with additional time for shopping and cafe breaks.
Day 2: Morning at the Museum of Fine Arts (MSK) or STAM (Ghent City Museum). Afternoon exploring the Patershol neighborhood with its charming streets and boutiques. Evening food tour or cooking class focusing on Belgian specialties.
3-Day Immersive Experience
Day 1: Historic Core - Saint Bavo's Cathedral, Belfry, Gravensteen Castle, Graslei/Korenlei, boat tour.
Day 2: Culture & Neighborhoods - Museum of Fine Arts, Citadelpark, Patershol exploration, evening at a performance at Vooruit or a jazz club.
Day 3: Local Life & Hidden Gems - Visit a beguinage, explore the Design Museum, bike ride along the river to the Bourgoyen nature reserve, farewell dinner at a Michelin-starred or innovative vegetarian restaurant.
Family-Friendly Itinerary
Morning: Gravensteen Castle with its interactive audio guide and weapon collection that appeals to children.
Afternoon: Boat tour (kids love being on the water), followed by a visit to the Ghent City Museum (STAM) which has family-friendly exhibits.
Evening: Dinner at a family-friendly restaurant, then sampling sweets at a local chocolate shop or trying Gentse neuzen.
Nearby Destinations
Ghent's central location makes it an ideal base for exploring other fascinating destinations in Belgium. These day trips offer contrasting experiences that complement your time in Ghent.
Bruges
Distance: 25 minutes by train
Highlights: More perfectly preserved medieval center, canal tours, chocolate museum
Contrast: More tourist-focused and picturesque, while Ghent feels more lived-in and authentic.
Antwerp
Distance: 50 minutes by train
Highlights: Fashion district, Rubens House, cathedral with Rubens altarpieces, diamond district
Contrast: Larger and more cosmopolitan with strong fashion and diamond industries.
Brussels
Distance: 30 minutes by train
Highlights: Grand Place, European Parliament, comic book murals, art museums
Contrast: Capital city energy with international institutions and more diverse dining options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ghent better to visit than Bruges?
Ghent and Bruges offer different experiences. While Bruges is more perfectly preserved and picturesque, Ghent feels more authentic and lived-in with a vibrant local culture. Ghent has fewer tourists relative to its attractions, making for a less crowded experience. Many visitors find Ghent's balance of medieval beauty and contemporary energy more appealing for longer stays.
What is the best way to get from Brussels Airport to Ghent?
The most convenient option is the direct train from Brussels Airport station (located beneath the terminal) to Gent-Sint-Pieters. Trains run approximately every 30 minutes, take 45-60 minutes, and cost around €15-20. Tickets can be purchased at the airport station or online in advance.
Is Ghent a walkable city?
Yes, Ghent's historic center is extremely walkable and largely pedestrianized. Most major attractions are within 15-20 minutes walking distance of each other. The city also has excellent bike-sharing programs and public transportation for longer distances or when tired.
What makes Ghent unique compared to other Belgian cities?
Ghent uniquely balances its spectacular medieval architecture with a vibrant, contemporary creative scene. It has a large student population that keeps the city dynamic, an impressive commitment to sustainability (it was named the E.U.'s Vegetarian Capital), and fewer tourists than Bruges or Brussels despite having equally impressive historical attractions.
Do I need to speak Dutch to visit Ghent?
No, English is widely spoken in Ghent, especially in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. The city's university and international outlook mean most residents under 60 speak excellent English. Learning a few basic Dutch phrases like "dank u" (thank you) is appreciated but not necessary.
What is the best time of year to visit Ghent?
Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) offer mild weather, beautiful scenery, and fewer crowds. July hosts the massive Gentse Feesten festival—great for atmosphere but very crowded. December features charming Christmas markets. Winter can be cold but offers the lowest hotel rates and fewest tourists.
Is the Ghent City Card worth purchasing?
The Ghent City Card offers good value if you plan to visit multiple paid attractions and use public transportation. Calculate your planned entry fees and transportation costs—if they exceed the card price (€35 for 48 hours, €42 for 72 hours), the card saves money. It also offers convenience with skip-the-line privileges at some attractions.
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