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• Ghent

5 Day Ghent Getaway: Culture, Cuisine & Adventure

Experience medieval charm and modern vibrance in Ghent, Belgium.

22 April 2023

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.

Travel plan

• Stay at the historic Hotel de Flandre, which has been beautifully restored with a modern twist.
• Start off exploring Ghent by taking a boat tour along the canals, giving you a unique perspective of the city.
• Wander through the picturesque streets of old town, taking in the stunning architecture and local vibe.
• Visit the iconic Gravensteen castle, a medieval fortress perched in the heart of the city.
• End your day with a Belgian beer tasting at the Dulle Griet pub, where you must surrender your shoe as collateral for their famous "Max" beer goblet.

• Indulge in a sumptuous breakfast from Mokabon, a beloved local coffee roastery.
• Visit the Museum of Fine Arts to see some of the most well-known Flemish Masters, including works by Jan van Eyck and Peter Paul Rubens.
• Take a stroll through the vibrant street art scene in the Werregarenstraat and surrounding areas.
• Stop for lunch at Balls & Glory, where you can enjoy their famous meatballs with a contemporary twist.
• In the evening, catch a show at the Vooruit, an iconic cultural center in Ghent, which hosts a range of performances from music to theater and dance.

• Take a short train ride to the nearby city of Bruges for a day trip.
• Visit the stunning Belfry Tower, climb to the top for panoramic views of the city.
• Wander through the central Markt square, famous for its colorful houses and horse-drawn carriages.
• Indulge in some of the world's most famous chocolates from the famous Bruges' chocolate shops.
• Return to Ghent in the evening and enjoy dinner at Oak, known for its mouth-watering steak.

• Spend the morning at the beautiful Citadel Park, which boasts various botanical gardens and sculptures.
• Learn about the city's history with a visit to the Ghent City Museum, conveniently located nearby.
• Take a leisurely stroll through the restored Bijloke site, an impressive complex of former hospitals and convents.
• Enjoy a traditional Flemish meal at Pakhuis, which is housed in a beautifully restored historic building.
• End your evening with live music and a drink at Hot Club de Gand, a cozy jazz club featuring local and international musicians.

• Hit up the local markets in the morning, including the local Farmer's Market at the Kouter and the Sunday market at Bij Sint-Jacobs.
• Indulge in some retail therapy with local designers and shops in the trendy neighborhoods of Patershol and Vlaanderenstraat.
• Grab a quick lunch at Le Pain Quotidien, a charming bakery offering fresh bread and pastries.
• For your farewell dinner, head to Volta, a modern restaurant that fuses gastronomy with design.
• Toast to an amazing stay in Ghent at the popular pub t' Dreupelkot, which boasts over 200 types of Belgian gin.