Experience the Best of Ghent: 4-Day Guide

Discover the charm and history of Ghent, Belgium, where the past meets the present.

22 April 2023

As a tourist in Ghent, Belgium, visitors can experience the city's stunning medieval architecture, cobbled streets, and lively atmosphere. By exploring top attractions such as St. Bavo's Cathedral, Gravensteen Castle, and the iconic Ghent Altarpiece, tourists can discover the rich history and culture of the city. Additionally, Ghent's vibrant food scene with delicious local dishes such as the famous Belgian waffles makes it a perfect destination for foodies.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Gentse Feesten and Canal Tour

  • Check in at the luxurious Hotel Harmony in the historic center of Ghent.
  • Dive into the lively atmosphere of the Gentse Feesten, the city's largest cultural festival, featuring music, comedy, and street performances.
  • Hop on a canal tour and see the city from a different perspective, cruising past medieval buildings and picturesque bridges.
  • Indulge in some Belgian comfort food at De Frietketel, a local favorite for fries and snacks.
  • Sip on some locally brewed beer at the iconic Dulle Griet bar and take the "Max" or "Sloeber" challenge, which involves drinking a beer from a huge glass boot or fishbowl.
Day 2

Art and Music

  • Start the day with a delicious breakfast at the trendy Mokabon coffee house.
  • Visit the Museum of Fine Arts, showcasing works by Flemish painters like van Eyck, Bosch and Rubens.
  • Grab a snack at the Graffiti Street, a corridor full of colorful street art and food stalls.
  • Check out the Design Museum, featuring exhibitions on fashion, furniture and graphic design.
  • End the day with some live music at the cozy Trefpunt café, hosting various concerts and jam sessions.
Day 3

Castles and Craftsmanship

  • Take a 20-minute train ride to the nearby city of Oudenaarde and visit the impressive castle of the Counts of Flanders.
  • Stop by the Museum of Tapestry, showcasing beautiful Flemish textiles and embroidery.
  • Explore the Patershol neighborhood, known for its artisanal shops and boutiques.
  • Sample some delicious chocolates at Yuzu, a chocolate-maker specializing in Japanese-inspired flavors.
  • Enjoy a gourmet dinner at Publiek, a Michelin-star restaurant offering creative dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
Day 4

Ghent by Bike

  • Rent a bike and explore the city on two wheels, cruising through the picturesque streets and along the river banks.
  • Visit St. Bavo's Cathedral, home to the world-famous Ghent Altarpiece by the van Eyck brothers.
  • Stop by the Castle of the Counts, a medieval fortress with impressive turrets and ramparts.
  • Have a picnic in the stunning Citadelpark, surrounded by greenery and sculptures.
  • Enjoy a refreshing drink at the trendy Bar Jan Cremer, offering cocktails and a cozy terrace.

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.

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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.

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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.

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Explore Ghent, Belgium on a tight budget and still have a fantastic time. Visit the iconic gothic St. Bavo's Cathedral and climb the belfry to see a panoramic view of the city. Dine at local food stalls and indulge in delicious cuisine under €10.