Ghent's Ultimate Family Adventure: 3 Days on a Budget!

Discover the enchanting charm of Ghent, where family fun and cultural wonders unite.

19 July 2023

Ghent, Belgium, offers a perfect destination for a family-friendly trip with its rich history and charming atmosphere. Explore the enchanting medieval architecture as you wander through the car-free city center, making it safe and convenient for kids. Don't miss a visit to the Gravensteen Castle, where your whole family can step back in time and enjoy interactive exhibits and impressive views from the tower.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring the Medieval Marvels

  • Start your day with a scrumptious Belgian waffle at Max's Waffle House, fueling up for a day of adventures.
  • Marvel at the imposing St. Bavo's Cathedral, where the breathtaking altarpiece of Ghent awaits with its mystifying beauty.
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the Graslei and Korenlei, charming riverside streets lined with elegant guildhouses that whisper tales of Ghent's rich history.
  • Climb the Belfry of Ghent, a legendary 14th-century tower offering panoramic views over the cityscape. Beware, it's a thigh-burning climb!
  • Enjoy a delectable lunch at Amadeus, a cozy restaurant famed for its mouthwatering spare ribs, served with a side of Belgian charm.
  • Spend your afternoon exploring Gravensteen, the "Castle of the Counts," where you can channel your inner knight or damsel in distress.
Day 2

Artistic Ecstasy and Canal Delights

  • Start your day at the quirky yet charming Drifter Coffee, where hipster vibes meet amazing brews to fuel your artistic adventures.
  • Visit the Museum of Fine Arts, home to an impressive collection of Flemish art, including works by the likes of Van Eyck and Rubens.
  • Hop on a boat tour along the picturesque canals of Ghent, admiring the city's architectural gems from a different perspective.
  • Indulge in traditional Belgian cuisine at the iconic Patershol neighborhood, where charming restaurants like De Vitrine and 't Klokhuys await.
  • Immerse yourself in contemporary art at SMAK, the city's contemporary art museum, showcasing innovative and thought-provoking works.
  • Unwind in the evening at Het Waterhuis aan de Bierkant, a lively bar offering an extensive selection of Belgian beers. Cheers to Ghent!
Day 3

Gardens, Graffiti, and Chocolate Delights

  • Begin your day with a stroll through the enchanting Citadel Park, a green oasis filled with sculptures, ponds, and serene landscapes.
  • Discover Ghent's vibrant street art scene with a graffiti tour, exploring hidden corners adorned with awe-inspiring murals.
  • Satisfy your sweet tooth at Quetzal, a chocolate paradise serving mouthwatering hot chocolate creations that would make Willy Wonka jealous.
  • Explore the historic Patershol district, a labyrinth of cobblestone streets filled with cozy cafes, artisan boutiques, and charming medieval houses.
  • Enjoy a relaxing picnic at the enchanting Bijloke site, nestled amidst lush gardens and stunning architecture.
  • End your day with a memorable dinner at Volta, a trendy restaurant where flavors collide in ingenious fusion dishes. Bon appétit!
  • No summary paragraph needed – let the adventurous spirit keep on exploring Ghent's gems!

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Ghent by plane is to fly to Brussels Airport and then take a train from Brussels Airport-Zaventem to Ghent-Sint-Pieters station. The total journey time is approximately 1 hour and tickets can be purchased at the airport train station.

Car

The best way to get to Ghent by car is to take the E40 from Brussels and follow the signs to Ghent. The journey time is approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour depending on traffic.

Train

The best way to get to Ghent by train is to take a Eurostar from London St. Pancras to Brussels Midi and then change to a local train to Ghent-Sint-Pieters station. The total journey time is approximately 3 hours and tickets can be purchased on the Eurostar website.

Boat

The best way to get to Ghent by boat is to take a river cruise from Amsterdam to Ghent. The journey time is approximately 7-8 hours and tickets can be purchased on various river cruise websites.

Bus

The best way to get to Ghent by bus is to take a Flixbus from London Victoria Coach Station to Brussels North Station and then change to a local train to Ghent-Sint-Pieters station. The total journey time is approximately 6 hours and tickets can be purchased on the Flixbus website.

More travel plans

Escape to Ghent: The Perfect 3-Day Getaway

Ghent, located in the heart of Flanders, is a city of charming canals, beautiful architecture, and rich history, making it a must-visit destination for tourists. A stroll through the old town reveals cobblestone streets lined with quaint shops, cozy cafes, and lively bars. Don't miss the opportunity to visit iconic landmarks such as the Gravensteen Castle, the Ghent Altarpiece, and the Saint Bavo Cathedral, all of which are steeped in centuries-old tales of war, religion, and art.

5 Day Ghent Getaway: Culture, Cuisine & Adventure

Ghent offers tourists a charming blend of medieval architecture, cultural experiences, and delicious cuisine. Must-see attractions include the Gravensteen castle, the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb painting, and the St. Bavo's Cathedral. Visitors can also indulge in Belgian specialties like waffles, chocolate, and beer at the city's many restaurants and cafes.

Unforgettable Day Trip: Ghent's Medieval Magic

A trip to Ghent, Belgium entails experiencing a perfect blend of history, art, culture and tourism. It provides an opportunity to explore the city's unique medieval architecture while meandering through its picturesque streets and canals. From the soaring Gothic towers of St. Bavo's Cathedral to the vibrant atmosphere of Gravensteen Castle, a visit to this city promises to be an unforgettable experience.

Ghent, Belgium: A Budget-Friendly Adventure

A trip to Ghent, Belgium on a limited budget can still be enjoyable with plenty of options to save money without compromising the experience. Visitors can explore the city's historic landmarks such as Gravensteen castle and St. Bavo's Cathedral for free, while also discovering local cuisine at food markets and spending a peaceful afternoon at the beautiful Citadel Park. Affordable transportation options such as cycling or taking the tram can provide savings while exploring the city.