Ghent is a charming and vibrant city located in the Flanders region of Belgium, and is one of the country’s hidden gems. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, Ghent is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world.
One of the main attractions in Ghent is the stunning medieval architecture, which can be seen throughout the city. Visitors can explore the imposing Gravensteen Castle, the towering St. Bavo’s Cathedral, and the impressive Belfry of Ghent, which offers stunning panoramic views of the city from the top.
Ghent is also known for its vibrant cultural scene, with a wide range of events, festivals, and exhibitions taking place throughout the year. The city is home to a number of excellent museums and galleries, including the Museum of Fine Arts and the Design Museum, both of which offer a fascinating glimpse into the city’s rich artistic heritage.
Food and drink is another highlight of Ghent, with a wide range of traditional Belgian dishes and local beers to sample. The city is famous for its “gentse waterzooi,” a hearty stew made with chicken or fish, as well as its delicious Belgian waffles and chocolate.
Ghent is also a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of green spaces, parks, and gardens to explore. The Citadel Park is a popular spot for jogging, cycling, and picnics, while the Botanical Gardens offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Finally, Ghent is known for its friendly and welcoming locals, who are always happy to help visitors get the most out of their stay in the city. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s rich history, indulging in its delicious food and drink, or simply soaking up the vibrant atmosphere, Ghent is a fantastic holiday destination that should not be missed.
THINGS TO DO IN GHENT
Here are some of the top attractions in Ghent:
- Gravensteen Castle: A stunning medieval castle located in the heart of Ghent, with a fascinating history and impressive views of the city from its towers.
- St. Bavo’s Cathedral: A beautiful Gothic cathedral, home to the famous altarpiece “The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb” by the Van Eyck brothers.
- Graslei and Korenlei: Two picturesque quays located along the river, with stunning views of historic buildings and a bustling atmosphere of restaurants and cafes.
- The Ghent Altarpiece: An impressive and intricate work of art by the Van Eyck brothers, located in St. Bavo’s Cathedral.
- Ghent City Museum (STAM): A museum dedicated to the history and culture of Ghent, with fascinating exhibits and interactive displays.
- The Belfry of Ghent: A tall tower with stunning views of the city, located in the heart of Ghent’s historic center.
- Design Museum Ghent: A museum dedicated to the art and design of everyday objects, with exhibits ranging from furniture to fashion and everything in between.
- St. Nicholas’ Church: A beautiful Gothic church located in the historic center of Ghent, with impressive architecture and stunning stained glass windows.
- Ghent’s Patershol: A charming and picturesque neighborhood filled with historic buildings, narrow streets, and a great selection of restaurants and bars.
- The Ghent Floralies: A biennial flower show that transforms the city into a stunning floral wonderland, with elaborate displays of flowers and plants throughout the city.
- Museum of Fine Arts: A museum featuring a range of works from the Middle Ages to the present day, including works by Flemish and Dutch artists such as Rubens, Van Dyck, and Rembrandt.
- Ghent University Botanical Garden: A beautiful botanical garden located in the heart of the city, with a wide variety of plant species from around the world.
INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT GHENT
- The city is home to one of the largest castles in Belgium, the Gravensteen Castle, which was built in the 12th century. Visitors can tour the castle’s dungeons and climb the towers for panoramic views of the city.
- Ghent is also known for its stunning Gothic architecture, with landmarks such as the St. Bavo’s Cathedral and the Belfry of Ghent.
- The city is famous for its local cuisine, including traditional Flemish dishes such as stoofvlees (beef stew) and waterzooi (a creamy fish or chicken soup).
- Ghent is home to one of the oldest universities in Europe, Ghent University, which was founded in 1817.
- The city hosts several annual festivals, including the Gentse Feesten (Ghent Festival), a ten-day music and cultural celebration held every summer, and the Light Festival, where the city is illuminated with colorful light installations every three years.
FOOD AND DRINK IN GHENT
Ghent’s cuisine is a reflection of its cultural diversity, blending traditional Flemish dishes with international influences.
One of the most popular dishes in Ghent is stoverij, a beef stew made with onions, beer, and spices, often served with fries. Waterzooi is another traditional dish, consisting of chicken or fish cooked in a creamy broth with vegetables.
Seafood is also popular in Ghent, with mussels being a local specialty. Visitors can enjoy a steaming pot of moules-frites (mussels and fries) at many local restaurants. Shrimp croquettes, fish soup, and smoked eel are also popular seafood dishes.
Ghent is home to several local breweries, producing a variety of Belgian beers. The city’s beer culture can be experienced in its numerous bars and pubs, offering a wide selection of local and international beers.
For sweets, visitors can indulge in Ghent’s famous cuberdons, cone-shaped candies with a soft, fruity center. Other popular sweets include Belgian waffles and chocolate.
Overall, Ghent’s culinary scene offers a range of traditional Flemish dishes, seafood specialties, and international flavors, paired with local beers and sweets. With its charming atmosphere and historic surroundings, Ghent is a great destination for foodies looking to explore Belgium’s rich gastronomy.
GHENT NIGHTLIFE
Ghent has a vibrant nightlife scene that offers a mix of traditional Belgian culture and modern trends. The city is known for its charming canals, medieval architecture, and lively atmosphere, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
One of the most popular areas for nightlife in Ghent is the historic city center, which offers a variety of bars and restaurants. Visitors can enjoy a drink or a meal while taking in the stunning views of the city’s historic buildings and bustling crowds.
For those who enjoy live music, Ghent has several options, including the popular concert venue Vooruit. The venue hosts a variety of musical acts, from local bands to international stars, and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
Ghent is also known for its famous beer scene, with countless bars and pubs offering a vast selection of Belgian beers. Visitors can enjoy a cold beer while experiencing the lively atmosphere of the city’s pubs and bars.
Overall, Ghent’s nightlife scene is diverse and offers something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a cozy pub or a lively club. The city’s rich history, stunning scenery, and famous beer scene make it a must-visit destination for those looking to experience Belgium’s nightlife.
TRAVELLING AROUND THE CITY
Ghent offers visitors a range of transportation options to explore its many attractions and surrounding areas.
One of the best ways to explore Ghent is on foot, as the city center is compact and easy to navigate, with many of its attractions located within walking distance of each other. Visitors can wander through the historic streets, visit the city’s many museums and galleries, and sample the local cuisine at one of the many restaurants and cafes.
For those looking to venture further afield, the city has an efficient public transportation system that includes buses and trams. These options are convenient, affordable, and offer visitors easy access to different parts of the city and surrounding areas.
Another popular way to explore the region is by bike, with numerous bike rental companies available throughout the city. Visitors can cycle along the picturesque canals, visit nearby towns and villages, and explore the scenic countryside of Flanders.
For those interested in exploring the region’s cultural and historical attractions, day trips to destinations such as Bruges, Brussels, and Antwerp are popular choices. These destinations are easily accessible by train, with travel times ranging from 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Overall, traveling in and around Ghent is convenient and easy, with multiple transportation options available to visitors. It’s worth noting that the city can be busy during peak tourist season, so it’s important to plan your travel accordingly.
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT GHENT?
The best time to visit Ghent depends on what you want to do and see.
The peak season to visit Ghent is during the summer months (June to August), when the weather is warm, and many tourists flock to the city. This is the perfect time to explore the city’s many historic sites, such as the Gravensteen Castle and St. Bavo’s Cathedral. During this time, you can also attend the Ghent Festival, which takes place every July and features live music, street performers, and outdoor markets.
If you want to avoid the crowds and get better hotel rates, the shoulder season is a great time to visit Ghent. This includes the months of April, May, September, and October when the weather is mild, and the city is less crowded. During these months, you can still enjoy outdoor activities such as bike rides along the canals and explore the city’s many museums and art galleries.
The winter season (December to February) is also a great time to visit Ghent, especially for those who enjoy Christmas markets and winter activities. The city transforms into a winter wonderland during the Christmas season, with its famous Christmas markets, ice rinks, and festive decorations.
Overall, Ghent is a great destination to visit year-round, and the best time to visit depends on your interests and preferences.
GHENT GEOGRAPHY AND CLIMATE
The geography of Ghent is characterized by a network of canals and waterways that flow through the city, and its architecture features medieval and Gothic buildings that add to its charm. The surrounding landscape is mostly flat, with farms and fields interspersed with wooded areas.
The climate in Ghent is a temperate maritime climate, with cool summers and mild winters. Average temperatures in January range from 0°C to 6°C, while July temperatures can reach up to 22°C. Precipitation is spread throughout the year, with occasional snowfall during the winter months.
GHENT TRAVEL GUIDES
Ghent is the perfect destination for some time away from home however make sure you plan ahead to not miss out on the best destinations and receive local knowledge. Shop for a good Ghent travel guide on Amazon today and keep it in your bag during your stay.
