Ghent Getaway: The Ultimate 5-Day Family Friendly Adventure

Ghent: Where family fun and historic wonders come together.

19 July 2023

Ghent, Belgium is a wonderful destination for a family-friendly trip. With its beautiful architecture, vibrant culture, and rich history, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Families can explore the medieval buildings, take boat rides along the canals, and visit the interactive museums that offer an immersive learning experience.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring Historic Ghent

  • Start your adventure at St. Bavo's Cathedral, where the stunning Ghent Altarpiece will leave you gobsmacked.
  • Wander along the Graslei and Korenlei, where medieval buildings line the picturesque canals.
  • Visit the Castle of the Counts, a fortified delight that will transport you back to the Middle Ages.
  • Indulge in a scrumptious traditional Belgian waffle at Max, topped with heaps of decadent chocolate sauce.
  • Sip a refreshing local beer at Dulle Griet, where you have to hand over a shoe as a collateral for a Kwak beer glass!
Day 2

A Day of Museums

  • Dive into art at the Museum of Fine Arts, showcasing stunning masterpieces from the Flemish Primitives to contemporary artists.
  • Get your science geek on at the Ghent University Museum, home to quirky scientific instruments and captivating exhibits.
  • Enjoy a tasty lunch at the Holy Food Market, where numerous food stalls offer a mouthwatering variety of international cuisines.
  • Brush up on your history at STAM Ghent City Museum, where interactive displays bring the city's past to life.
  • Explore the quirky world of Design Museum Gent, where remarkable design objects will tickle your creative senses.
Day 3

Nature and Castles

  • Spend a tranquil morning strolling through the enchanting Bijloke Park, a lush oasis in the heart of the city.
  • Discover the magnificent Ghent City Pavilion, a contemporary architectural gem.
  • Visit the outstanding Gardens of the Bijloke Abbey, where flora and fauna create a serene atmosphere.
  • Marvel at the fairytale-like beauty of Castle Ooidonk, surrounded by idyllic gardens and a moat.
  • Treat yourself to some artisanal ice cream from Luciano, because life is just too short for plain vanilla.
Day 4

Canal Cruise and Shopping

  • Embark on a delightful canal cruise, floating along the scenic waterways while admiring the city's splendid architecture.
  • Wander through the vibrant Patershol district, filled with charming medieval buildings and trendy boutiques.
  • Indulge in traditional Flemish cuisine at De Graslei, where classic dishes are served with a modern twist.
  • Explore the quirky shops along the Veldstraat, from trendy fashion boutiques to unique vintage stores.
  • Stock up on delicious Belgian chocolates at Neuhaus, because what's a Belgian trip without a chocolate coma?
Day 5

Parks and Recreation

  • Breathe in the fresh air at Citadel Park, a green haven perfect for a relaxing picnic or a game of frisbee.
  • Visit the enchanting Ghent Floralies, a stunning flower exhibition that will leave you in awe of Mother Nature's beauty.
  • Enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the Lys River, taking in the scenic countryside and charming villages.
  • Have a delicious lunch at the funky PICK café, where fresh ingredients and innovative recipes will delight your taste buds.
  • End your Ghent adventure with a traditional Belgian dinner at Amadeus, feasting on succulent ribs until you're positively stuffed.

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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