Unforgettable Day Trip: Ghent's Medieval Magic

Discover the medieval magic of Ghent - where history meets modernity.

22 April 2023

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.

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Day trip plan

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Day

Exploring the Magic of Ghent

  • Begin the day with a hearty breakfast at Barista Coffee House, the infamous local spot for coffee and waffles.
  • Take a stroll through the Gravensteen, a medieval fortress turned museum. It's a must-do for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts!
  • Visit the STAM Ghent City Museum to learn about the history, culture, and development of Ghent through interactive exhibits.
  • Indulge in some Belgian chocolate from the renowned chocolaterie Van Hoorebeke. The creations here are a sensory adventure and can't be missed if you have a sweet tooth!
  • Stop by the Design museum Gent, home to a collection of contemporary designs, and admire the innovative arts and crafts.
  • Feast on some traditional Flemish cuisine at Eetcafé Toreke, a cozy eatery with a lovely ambiance, and try some famous Belgian beer from their extensive collection.
  • Ghent has an abundance of cultural and historical landmarks and activities that can be enjoyed in just one day. So, put on your most comfortable shoes, and set off on an adventure in this charming city!

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

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

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.

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5 Day Ghent Getaway: Culture, Cuisine & Adventure

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