Fun Things to Do in Ghent | Travel Guide (2024) | Best Places to Visit
Ghent Travel Guide
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Welcome to Ghent, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Europe. Known for its medieval architecture, picturesque canals, and vibrant cultural scene, Ghent offers a truly unique travel experience. As you wander through the cobblestone streets, you'll be captivated by the stunning Gothic buildings, such as the iconic Saint Bavo's Cathedral and the imposing Gravensteen Castle. Ghent is also home to a thriving art scene, with world-class museums showcasing masterpieces by renowned Flemish painters like Jan van Eyck and Hieronymus Bosch. Don't forget to indulge in the local cuisine, with its famous Belgian waffles, chocolate, and beer. Whether you're a history buff, an art enthusiast, or simply seeking a charming European getaway, Ghent is sure to leave you enchanted.
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Things To Do In Ghent
Ghent offers a plethora of activities and sights that cater to various interests. Here are some must-see attractions and things to do in Ghent:
1. Gravensteen Castle: Begin your exploration by visiting the iconic Gravensteen Castle, a medieval fortress that dates back to the 12th century. Explore the castle's towers, dungeons, and exhibitions to learn about its rich history.
2. Saint Bavo's Cathedral: Marvel at the stunning architecture of Saint Bavo's Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic art. Inside, you'll find the famous Ghent Altarpiece by the Van Eyck brothers, a renowned Flemish artwork.
3. Ghent's Historic Center: Take a leisurely stroll through Ghent's historic center, which is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture. Admire the guildhalls, churches, and canals that make this area so charming.
4. Graslei and Korenlei: Visit the picturesque Graslei and Korenlei, two quays located along the River Leie. These vibrant areas are lined with historic buildings, cafes, and restaurants, making them perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
5. Ghent City Museum (STAM): Immerse yourself in Ghent's history and culture at the Ghent City Museum. The museum showcases the city's past through interactive displays, artifacts, and multimedia presentations.
6. Belfry of Ghent: Climb the iconic Belfry of Ghent for panoramic views of the city. This medieval tower stands at 91 meters tall and offers a breathtaking vista of Ghent's skyline.
7. Ghent's Street Art: Ghent is known for its vibrant street art scene. Take a self-guided tour or join a guided tour to discover the city's mural paintings, graffiti, and urban art installations.
8. Ghent's Markets: Explore Ghent's lively markets, such as the Kouter Flower Market and the Vrijdagmarkt. These markets offer a wide range of fresh produce, flowers, and local products.
Tours And Activities In Ghent
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Best Time To Visit Ghent
The best time to visit Ghent is during the spring and summer months. The city experiences mild temperatures and longer daylight hours during this time, making it ideal for exploring the historic sites, museums, and beautiful canals. Additionally, Ghent hosts several festivals and events during the spring and summer, such as the Ghent Festival and the Ghent Jazz Festival, which attract both locals and tourists. However, it is important to note that summer months can be quite busy with tourists, so if you prefer a quieter experience, early spring or late summer may be a better option.
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Best Areas To Stay In Ghent
Ghent offers a variety of great areas for accommodation. Here are a few of the best areas to consider:
1. Historic Center: The Historic Center of Ghent is a popular choice for tourists due to its charming cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and proximity to major attractions such as the Gravensteen Castle and Saint Bavo's Cathedral. This area is filled with cozy guesthouses, boutique hotels, and charming bed and breakfasts, making it an ideal choice for those looking to immerse themselves in the city's rich history.
2. Patershol: Located just outside the Historic Center, Patershol is a trendy neighborhood known for its vibrant nightlife and culinary scene. This area is home to numerous trendy bars, restaurants, and cafes, making it a great choice for food enthusiasts and those looking to experience Ghent's vibrant social scene. Accommodation options in Patershol range from stylish boutique hotels to modern apartments.
3. Kouter: Situated in the heart of Ghent, Kouter is a bustling area known for its beautiful flower market and upscale shopping. This neighborhood offers a mix of luxury hotels, serviced apartments, and guesthouses, making it a great choice for those seeking a more upscale accommodation experience. Kouter is also conveniently located near major transportation hubs, making it easy to explore other parts of the city.
4. Sint-Pieters: If you prefer a quieter and more residential area, Sint-Pieters is a great option. This neighborhood is located near the Sint-Pieters train station and is known for its leafy streets, parks, and green spaces. Accommodation options in Sint-Pieters range from cozy guesthouses to budget-friendly hotels, making it a suitable choice for families or those looking for a peaceful retreat.
5. Korenmarkt: Situated in the heart of Ghent, Korenmarkt is a bustling square surrounded by historic buildings, cafes, and shops. This area offers a mix of accommodation options, including luxury hotels, budget-friendly hostels, and serviced apartments. Staying in Korenmarkt allows easy access to major attractions such as the Belfry of Ghent and the Saint Nicholas' Church.
Overall, Ghent offers a diverse range of accommodation options in various neighborhoods, each with its own unique charm and attractions. Whether you prefer to stay in the historic center, immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife, or enjoy a peaceful retreat, Ghent
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Transportation To Ghent
There are several transportation options to get to Ghent:
1. By plane: The nearest airport to Ghent is Brussels Airport (BRU). From the airport, you can take a train or a taxi to reach Ghent. The train journey takes approximately 1 hour.
2. By train: Ghent has excellent train connections with other major cities in Belgium and Europe. You can take a train from Brussels, Antwerp, Bruges, or other nearby cities to reach Ghent. The train station in Ghent is called "Gent-Sint-Pieters."
3. By car: If you prefer to drive, Ghent is easily accessible by car. The city is well-connected to the Belgian highway network, and there are several parking facilities available in the city center.
4. By bus: There are also bus services that connect Ghent with other cities in Belgium and Europe. You can check the schedules and book tickets through various bus operators.
5. By bike: Ghent is known for its bike-friendly infrastructure, and cycling is a popular mode of transportation within the city. If you are in a nearby city or town, you can consider renting a bike and cycling to Ghent.
Once you arrive in Ghent, the city has an efficient public transportation system, including buses and trams, to help you get around. Additionally, Ghent is a compact city, and many attractions are within walking distance from each other.
Nearby Destination From Ghent
1. Brussels: The capital city of Belgium, known for its stunning architecture and vibrant cultural scene.
2. Antwerp: A bustling port city famous for its fashion, diamonds, and historic landmarks.
3. Bruges: A picturesque medieval town with charming canals, cobblestone streets, and well-preserved medieval architecture.
4. Mechelen: A historic city with a rich cultural heritage, featuring beautiful churches, museums, and a vibrant city center.
5. Leuven: Home to one of the oldest universities in the world, Leuven offers a mix of historic buildings, lively student life, and a vibrant beer culture.
6. Ostend: A popular coastal city known for its sandy beaches, lively promenade, and vibrant nightlife.
7. Ypres: A historic town that was heavily impacted by World War I, featuring well-preserved medieval architecture and poignant war memorials.
8. Namur: The capital of Wallonia, Namur boasts a stunning citadel, charming old town, and beautiful riverside setting.
9. Lille: Located just across the border in France, Lille offers a mix of French and Flemish influences, with a vibrant cultural scene and impressive architecture.
10. Tournai: One of Belgium's oldest cities, Tournai is known for its stunning cathedral, medieval architecture, and rich history.