Budget-Friendly Adventure: A 3-Day Ghent Getaway

Discover Ghent's beauty on a budget!

21 June 2023

Discover the historic city of Ghent on a budget-friendly trip. Explore the picturesque streets and canal, visit the stunning Castle of the Counts, and enjoy local cuisine at affordable eateries. Stay in budget-friendly accommodation in the city center and save money by using public transportation or walking to sights.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Arrival in Ghent

  • Check-in at the funky Hostel Uppelink, located in an old canal house with a rooftop terrace and stunning views of the city's spires.
  • Take a stroll along the picturesque Graslei and Korenlei quays, lined with colorful medieval houses and lively cafés.
  • Visit St. Bavo's Cathedral, home to the famous altarpiece The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb by the Van Eyck brothers.
  • Have a delicious Belgian waffle at Max, a local favorite spot with a wide range of toppings, from classic whipped cream to savory bacon and cheese.
  • Explore the vibrant Patershol neighborhood, filled with cobblestone streets, cute shops, and cozy eateries.
Day 2

Art and Culture

  • Start the day by renting a bike from Max Mobiel and ride alongside the canals to the impressive Museum of Fine Arts Ghent, showcasing works by Flemish masters such as Rubens, Van Dyck, and Ensor.
  • Walk over to the mystical Castle of the Counts, a stunning medieval fortress with a gruesome torture chamber and a panoramic view of the city.
  • Grab a lunch at the hip Holy Food Market, a former chapel converted into a foodie paradise with a variety of international stalls.
  • Visit the contemporary art museum SMAK, housed in a former casino and presenting innovative creations by Belgian and international artists.
  • Catch a live performance or a movie screening at the Vooruit arts center, a cultural hub with a rich history and a lively atmosphere.
Day 3

Nature and Relaxation

  • Rent a kayak from the Blue Kayak company and paddle along the peaceful Leie river, admiring the scenic countryside and the charming villages of Sint-Martens-Latem and Deurle.
  • Stop for lunch at Aroy Aroy, a cozy Thai restaurant with a lovely garden terrace and delicious spicy dishes.
  • Take a walk in the enchanting Citadel Park, a green oasis with a diverse botanical garden, a duck pond, and a romantic pavilion.
  • Soak in the hot springs and saunas at the nearby Castle Sauna, a luxurious wellness center in a 19th-century castle.
  • Treat yourself to a dinner at Pakhuis, a trendy restaurant and brewery housed in a refurbished warehouse with an industrial-chic vibe and tasty Belgian beers.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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.

Destination

Ghent

If you're a fan of medieval architecture and Belgian waffles, then Ghent might just become your new favorite city. Plus, it's home to more bicycles than there are people, so be sure to watch out for rogue cyclists while exploring!

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Number of days

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Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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