Flanders, Belgium
Arrive at Gent-Sint-Pieters, take Tram 1 directly to Korenmarkt. Begin your exploration by walking along the picturesque Graslei and Korenlei. Visit Saint Nicholas' Church, the Belfry (ascend for views), and Saint Bavo's Cathedral (including the Ghent Altarpiece).
Enjoy lunch at a traditional Flemish restaurant near the historic center. Explore Gravensteen Castle, immersing yourself in its medieval history. Wander through the charming, cobbled streets of Patershol, known for its atmosphere. Enjoy dinner at one of Patershol's excellent restaurants or find a cozy spot along the canals. Consider a traditional Belgian beer at a local pub.
Maximize your time in Ghent with these structured plans.
Day 1: Arrive, check into your accommodation. Explore the historic core: Graslei/Korenlei, cross St. Michael's Bridge for the iconic three-towers view. Visit the Belfry and Saint Nicholas' Church. Take a relaxing canal boat tour. Evening: Dinner and explore the atmospheric Patershol district. Day 2: Morning: Visit Gravensteen Castle. Then, choose a museum: the Design Museum or STAM (Ghent City Museum). Afternoon: Explore Werregarenstraatje (Graffiti Alley) for its dynamic street art. Enjoy some shopping along Veldstraat or Langemunt. Evening: Participate in a beer tasting at a local pub or try a new Ghentese restaurant. Day 3: Morning: Visit one of the peaceful Beguinages (Grand or Small). Optionally, visit the Museum of Fine Arts (MSK) or S.M.A.K. Afternoon: Relax in a charming cafe, revisit a favorite spot, or enjoy a last Belgian waffle before departure from Gent-Sint-Pieters.
Days 1-3: Dedicate these days to an exploration of Ghent's main attractions, museums, distinct neighborhoods, and diverse culinary scene, following the weekend itinerary as a base but with more time. Day 4: Take an easy day trip to Bruges by train. Explore its canals, the Belfry, and soak in its medieval charm. Day 5: Plan a day trip to Antwerp or Brussels by train. Experience Antwerp's fashion and diamond districts or Brussels' Grand Place and European institutions. Day 6: Explore Ghent's lesser-known gems in more detail, like both Beguinages, Dulle Griet, and Citadel Park. Consider taking a cooking class focusing on Flemish cuisine or joining a specialized food tour. Day 7: Departure or revisit favorite spots, perhaps enjoy a final meal or last-minute souvenir shopping.
Combine the one-week itinerary with dives into Ghent's art, history, and food. Add more day trips to smaller Flemish towns like Leuven, Mechelen, or the historical battlefields of Ypres. Consider extending your travels into neighboring countries, like the Netherlands (Amsterdam, Rotterdam) or France (Lille, Paris).
For stays exceeding a week, renting an apartment with kitchen facilities offers comfort and cost savings. Explore local markets, utilize city parks for relaxation, and perhaps take language lessons or join local clubs to immerse more deeply in Ghentese life.
Ghent can accommodate various budget levels with smart planning.
Stay in hostels like Hostel Uppelink. Utilize De Lijn day passes or simply walk/cycle everywhere. Buy groceries from supermarkets for breakfast and some lunches. Eat from fritkots or budget cafes for affordable meals.
Stay in comfortable B&Bs or 3-star hotels. Mix self-catering meals with dining at mid-range restaurants. Use public transport for longer distances but walk frequently. Enjoy a few paid tours or museum visits, perhaps prioritizing the CityCard Gent.
Stay in 4-5 star boutique hotels like 1898 The Post or Hotel Harmony. Indulge in fine dining experiences. Opt for private guided tours. Utilize taxis or private transfers for convenience. Enjoy high-end shopping and exclusive experiences.
Tailor your Ghent itinerary to your specific passions.
Prioritize visits to Gravensteen Castle, Saint Bavo's Cathedral (especially the Altarpiece), the Belfry, and a stroll through the Patershol district. Include the STAM museum (Ghent City Museum) for a comprehensive historical overview and the House of Alijn for a glimpse into 20th-century life.
Start with a dedicated food tour. Visit Groentenmarkt and Groot Vleeshuis to sample local products. Make sure to try authentic Waterzooi and Ghentse Stoverij. Indulge in Belgian fries from a local fritkot and taste a variety of Belgian chocolates and cuberdons.
Focus on the Museum of Fine Arts (MSK), S.M.A.K. (contemporary art), and the Design Museum. Spend ample time in Saint Bavo's Cathedral admiring the Ghent Altarpiece. Appreciate the medieval guild houses along Graslei/Korenlei.
Gravensteen Castle, especially with its entertaining audio guide, often a hit with kids. Enjoy a canal boat tour. The Blaarmeersen recreational area space for outdoor activities. The Ghent City Museum (STAM) has interactive exhibits. Belgian fries and waffles are universal kid-pleasers.
Seek out the peaceful Small and Grand Beguinages for quiet reflection. Explore the serene corners of Ghent's churches outside of service times. Enjoy calm walks along the canals or in Citadel Park.
Appreciate the medieval guild houses along Graslei/Korenlei. Consider architectural walking tours to discover hidden gems of design.
Travel during the shoulder or low season for better prices on flights and accommodation.
Take advantage of lunch specials or "dagmenu" for more affordable meals at quality restaurants.
Pre-book long-distance train tickets for the best fares.
Ghent distinct experiences depending on the time of year.
The Gentse Feesten in July dominates the summer, with ten days of free concerts, street performances, and a lively atmosphere. Enjoy outdoor terraces along the canals, take extensive canal boat tours, and explore the city by bicycle in the long daylight hours.
Experience the magical Christmas markets from late November through December, with festive lights, seasonal treats, and a cozy atmosphere. Focus on indoor activities like visiting museums and warming up in traditional pubs with a local beer.
Plan your trip specifically around major events like the Gentse Feesten (July), Gent Jazz Festival (July), or the spectacular Light Festival (biennial, next in 2024, then 2027). These events transform the city and offer unique experiences.
Enjoy fewer crowds at popular attractions and potentially lower prices for accommodation. This period a more authentic local experience, allowing you to immerse in Ghent's daily life without the summer tourist rush.
Off-season travel allows for a dive into Ghent's hearty Flemish cuisine. Enjoy traditional dishes in cozy settings without the summer rush.
Always check official government travel advisories before and during your trip.
Keep important contact numbers and copies of travel documents readily accessible.
