A Flemish university city of medieval guildhouses along canals — livelier and less crowded than Bruges — famous for the van Eyck brothers’ Ghent Altarpiece in St Bavo’s Cathedral.
One of Europe’s biggest city festivals, ten days of music and street theatre. source
April–June and September–October
A relaxed time for canal boats, the castle and the cathedral. source
Weather: April–June and September–October suit canal walks, and mid-July’s ten-day Gentse Feesten fills the city with street performances; winters are grey and wet. source
Times to avoid: During the Gentse Feesten rooms cost more and the centre is packed; avoid it if you want a quiet trip. source
Weather varies from year to year; check the forecast before you go.
Don't miss in Ghent
Ghent Altarpiece (St Bavo’s Cathedral) See the van Eycks’ Adoration of the Mystic Lamb in the visitor centre, with an AR tour of its history. source
Gravensteen (Castle of the Counts) A medieval castle in the middle of town with views from its ramparts; free under 12. source
Graslei and Korenlei Guildhouses lining both banks of the canal — Ghent’s signature view, where canal boats depart. source
Where to stay in Ghent
Old centre (Korenlei / Graslei)
The canal-side heart, walkable to the cathedral and castle.
What to eat in Ghent
Gentse Waterzooi — Creamy stew of chicken or fish with vegetables
Cuberdons — Nose-shaped raspberry gum sweets, a Ghent icon
Ghent-style Stoverij — Belgian beef stew slow-cooked in beer
Ghent tips and things to watch out for
Ghent travel tips
Trams and buses take a De Lijn single ticket or contactless card, with transfers allowed within the time limit. source
Getting there: Ghent has no major airport; take the train from Brussels Airport or Brussels. From Gent-Sint-Pieters station, a tram reaches the old centre in about 15 minutes. source
Good to know in Belgium
Languages vary by region in Belgium. In Brussels, check both French and Dutch place names. source
Service is included in Belgian restaurant bills, but you may leave an additional tip if you wish. source
Watch out for in Belgium
Watch for pickpockets around Brussels Central and Midi stations and on the metro. source
General advice for the whole country. Check official government travel advice for entry rules and safety before you go.
Restaurant prices for Ghent are still being collected. The estimate also uses some official meal and transit prices checked in other cities in Belgium.
Ghent attraction & theme park tickets
Official sellers’ prices for one adult admission. Select attractions in the calculator to add them to your budget.