Traveling to Ghent and looking for activities to do? Having grown up in Brussels, I always assumed I knew Belgium well — but Ghent completely caught me off guard. Just 50 minutes from Brussels by train, this medieval city has everything you could want: stunning canals, a castle sitting right in the city center, world-class art, and a food scene that will keep you coming back. Whether you’re visiting for a day trip or a longer stay, here are the best things to do in Ghent to make the most of your time there.
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Table of Contents
- 1) Climb the Belfry of Ghent (Belfort)
- 2) Visit Saint Bavo’s Cathedral
- 3) Stroll Graslei and Korenlei
- 4) Take a Boat Tour of Ghent’s Canals
- 5) Explore Gravensteen Castle
- 6) Wander the Patershol Neighborhood
- 7) Discover the Museum of Fine Arts (MSK)
- 8) Cycle or Walk Along Citadel Park
- 9) Sample Local Specialties at Vrijdagmarkt and the Market Hall
- 10) Attend a concert at De Bijloke or An Event During the Gentse Feesten
- Local Traditions and Seasonal Events
- Where to Hang Out After Dark
- Practical Tips for Exploring Ghent
- Final Worlds!
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Q: What are the classic “don’t-miss” sights in Ghent that are actually worth the time (and which ones can I skip)?
- Q: What are some genuinely unusual, off-the-beaten-path things to do in Ghent when you’ve seen the postcard spots?
- Q: What are the best free things to do in Ghent that don’t feel like a boring budget compromise?
1) Climb the Belfry of Ghent (Belfort)
The Belfry of Ghent stands 91 meters tall and is the tallest belfry in Belgium. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of three medieval towers that define the city’s skyline.
You can reach the top by climbing 366 steps or taking the elevator partway up. The elevator starts from the first floor after you walk up about 50 steps, and it takes you close to the top. This makes the tower accessible to most visitors, though it’s not fully accessible for those with reduced mobility.
As you go up, you’ll see the carillon with its bells and pass through different floors that show the tower’s history. The climb lets you learn about the building while you make your way to the viewing area.
The views from the top are worth it. You can see Ghent’s canals, historic buildings, and the surrounding area spread out below you.
Tickets cost 11 euros, or you can visit for free with The City Card. The Belfry is open from 10am to 6pm.
2) Visit Saint Bavo’s Cathedral
You’ll find one of the world’s most important paintings inside Saint Bavo’s Cathedral. The Ghent Altarpiece was created by brothers Hubert and Jan van Eyck and finished in 1432.
The altarpiece is also called “The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb.” It’s a large polyptych, which means it has multiple panels that open and close. The artwork is recognized as one of the most influential paintings ever made and a masterpiece of early Northern Renaissance art.
The cathedral houses the altarpiece in a special visitor center where you can get close to see its detailed work. A major restoration project was completed recently, and a new exhibit about the altarpiece opened in 2021. This makes now a great time to visit.
The painting has a dramatic history as one of the most stolen artworks in Western art. You can learn about its symbolism and wild backstory at the cathedral’s visitor center.
Saint Bavo’s Cathedral is located in the heart of Ghent, and visiting the altarpiece is considered a must-see for art lovers visiting the city.
See Saint Bavo’s Cathedral tour
3) Stroll Graslei and Korenlei
Graslei and Korenlei are two quays that face each other across the Leie River in Ghent’s historic center. These streets were once the city’s main medieval port where ships loaded with grain and herbs docked from the 12th century onward.
You’ll find stunning guild houses and warehouses lining both sides of the water. The buildings date from the 12th to 17th centuries and showcase different architectural styles from across the centuries. On Graslei, you can spot notable structures like the Corn House, the Toll House, and the Grain Storehouse.
Today, the area has transformed into a popular spot for relaxation. You can sit at one of the many café terraces with outdoor seating or simply dangle your legs over the quay. The historic façades reflect beautifully in the river water, making this one of the best places in Ghent for photos.
Visit at night when the medieval buildings are illuminated for an especially magical atmosphere. The area attracts both tourists and locals who come to enjoy coffee, lunch, or a leisurely walk by the water.
See Graslei and Korenlei walking tour
4) Take a Boat Tour of Ghent’s Canals
A boat tour gives you a completely different view of Ghent than walking around. The tours last about 45 to 50 minutes and take you through the historic center along the canals and rivers.
You’ll glide past medieval guild houses, the Castle of the Counts, and the old Fish Market. During high season, boats leave every 15 minutes, so you won’t wait long. A guide shares stories about Ghent’s history as an important medieval port and how the waterways shaped the city’s growth.
The tours run daily and cost around €10–€12 per person. Some bridges are low, so you’ll need to duck your head as you pass under them. You can buy drinks on board if you want.
The water gives you access to views you can’t see from the streets. You’ll understand how Ghent became a powerful trading city in medieval times and see how the old industrial areas along the canals have changed over the years.
See more info on boat tours in Ghent
5) Explore Gravensteen Castle
Gravensteen Castle sits right in the middle of Ghent and stands as one of Belgium’s best-preserved medieval fortresses. Built around 1180, this stone castle replaced an earlier wooden fortress that burned down.
When you visit, you’ll walk through atmospheric dungeons and climb up to the battlements for views over the city. The castle houses a Museum of Arms where you can see armor and weapons from the Middle Ages. You’ll also find a Museum of Judicial Objects that displays torture instruments used centuries ago.
The audio guide adds interesting details about the counts who lived here and the castle’s dark history. Plan to spend about one to two hours exploring the rooms, towers, and courtyard. The castle gets crowded during peak times, so you might want to visit on weekday afternoons for a quieter experience.
You can visit Gravensteen throughout the year. The thick stone walls and towers give you a real sense of what life was like in a medieval fortress. It’s a good pick if you’re interested in history and don’t mind learning about the less pleasant parts of the past.
6) Wander the Patershol Neighborhood
You’ll find yourself stepping back in time when you enter Patershol, Ghent’s oldest medieval quarter. This charming neighborhood sits just across the Lys river from the main historic center, right next to the Castle of the Counts.
The area developed between the 11th and 12th centuries and reached its peak during the 17th and 18th centuries. Back then, wealthy magistrates and lawyers built grand homes in these narrow, winding streets. Today, those same cobblestone lanes and historic buildings create a perfect setting for an afternoon stroll.
Patershol has become Ghent’s top spot for food lovers. You’ll find restaurants packed close together along the tiny streets, offering everything from traditional Flemish dishes to Japanese, Indonesian, Turkish, Italian, and Spanish cuisine. The neighborhood also features cozy cafes, art galleries, and small boutique shops.
During weekdays, Patershol stays fairly quiet, which makes it ideal for exploring the medieval street layout. On weekends, the area gets busier with students and locals enjoying the intimate atmosphere. Don’t miss trying jenever (Belgian gin) at ‘t Dreupelkot, one of the traditional bars tucked into these historic streets.
7) Discover the Museum of Fine Arts (MSK)
Romaine, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
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The Museum of Fine Arts Ghent, known locally as MSK, is Belgium’s oldest museum. It was founded in 1798 during French rule. You’ll find it on the east side of Citadelpark, housed in a beautiful historic building.
The museum holds over 600 masterpieces on permanent display from a collection of 9,000 artworks. The works span from the Middle Ages through the 20th century. You can see old masters like Bosch and Rubens hanging alongside Impressionists and Modernists.
Belgian and Flemish art gets special attention here. Famous Belgian artists like Ensor, Magritte, and Permeke are well represented throughout the galleries. The museum is particularly strong in 19th and early 20th-century Belgian art.
What makes MSK special is how old and modern works are displayed side by side. You can move from medieval paintings to surrealist pieces in the same visit. The varied collection gives you a complete picture of European art history in one location.
The museum is easy to reach near the Stedelijk Museum voor Actuele Kunst. Plan a few hours to explore the galleries properly.
See tickets price for MSK entry
8) Cycle or Walk Along Citadel Park
Marc Ryckaert (MJJR), CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Citadel Park sits on a hill between the Scheldt and Lys rivers. The park opened in 1875, five years after the old citadel was removed. You’ll find walking paths, a lake, and green spaces perfect for a relaxing stroll or bike ride.
Inside the park, you can visit S.M.A.K., the Municipal Museum of Contemporary Art. The museum moved to its current building in 1999, a converted casino across from the Museum of Fine Arts. The collection includes over 5,000 works from post-World War II to today.
S.M.A.K. is considered the most important contemporary art collection in Belgium. You’ll see pieces by famous Belgian artists and international names. The museum changes its exhibitions every four months, mixing permanent collection pieces with newer shows.
The museum sits in an area called the museum island within Citadel Park. You can easily combine your visit with the nearby Museum of Fine Arts. Check ahead for days when S.M.A.K. offers free admission to save on your visit.
9) Sample Local Specialties at Vrijdagmarkt and the Market Hall
Vrijdagmarkt is a historic square that hosts a lively market every Friday and Saturday. You’ll find fresh produce, local cheeses, meats, and seasonal fruits and vegetables from regional vendors.
The real treat is trying Ghent’s famous cuberdons, also called Gentse neuzen or “Ghent noses.” These cone-shaped purple candies have a crispy outer shell and a sweet raspberry syrup center. You can buy them fresh from street vendors around the market area.
Belgian waffles are available at various spots near the square. Look for vendors serving them hot with toppings like whipped cream, chocolate, or fresh fruit.
The Market Hall offers another great spot to explore local food. You’ll discover artisanal products and specialty items from Ghent and the surrounding region.
Don’t miss trying local craft beers at nearby cafes and pubs. Many serve Belgian brews that pair well with the traditional foods you’ll sample at the markets. The combination of fresh market finds and authentic local treats makes this a perfect stop for food lovers visiting Ghent.
See Tasting food at the famous Vrijdagmart
10) Attend a concert at De Bijloke or An Event During the Gentse Feesten
You can catch world-class music at De Bijloke Gent Music Centre, which hosts over 120 concerts each season. The venue brings in top musicians from Belgium and around the world. More than 100,000 people visit each year for concerts and special events.
If you’re in Ghent during July, you should check out the Gentse Feesten. This 10-day festival runs from July 17 to July 26 and dates back to 1843. The festival takes over the entire city center with over 3,300 performances.
You’ll find free music, theater, and street performances happening day and night. The festival features everything from classical and rock to hip-hop and experimental shows. Stages pop up throughout the medieval streets and squares.
Getting around is easy since Ghent becomes mostly pedestrian-only during the festival. You can walk or rent a bike like the locals do. Public transport runs extra hours if you need to reach other parts of the city. Most events are free, so you can explore different performances without worrying about tickets.
Local Traditions and Seasonal Events
Ghent’s calendar fills with vibrant celebrations that showcase the city’s rich cultural heritage. The city hosts everything from massive street parties to intimate boat parades, giving you plenty of chances to experience authentic Belgian traditions throughout the year.
Ghent Festivities: A Look at July’s Biggest Street Party
The Ghent Festivities take over the entire city for 10 days each July. This massive street party attracts over 1.5 million visitors who come to enjoy free concerts, street performances, and theatrical shows across multiple stages.
You’ll find the historic city center transformed into an open-air festival ground. Local and international musicians perform everything from rock to jazz to electronic music. Street theaters set up in squares and along canals.
The best part? Nearly all events are completely free. You can wander from one venue to another, grabbing Belgian beers and street food as you go. The festival runs from mid to late July, and locals recommend arriving in the afternoon when the crowds are manageable but the energy is building.
Markets and Food Fairs: Sampling Local Delicacies
Ghent’s food markets give you direct access to local specialties you won’t find anywhere else. Try waterzooi, a creamy chicken or fish stew that originated in Ghent. You should also sample cuberdons, cone-shaped purple candies with a soft raspberry center as shown in the picture above.
The Sunday morning market at Bij Sint-Jacobs runs year-round and features local produce, cheeses, and prepared foods. In December, the winter market takes over Korenmarkt and Sint-Baafsplein with wooden chalets selling hot chocolate, waffles, and seasonal treats.
Local vendors often offer free samples, so don’t be shy about tasting before buying. Many market stalls only accept cash, so bring euros.
Boat Parade Customs on The Leie
The Leie River hosts decorated boat parades during special occasions throughout the year. During the Ghent Festivities, local boat clubs organize nighttime water parades with illuminated vessels floating past medieval buildings.
You can watch from any of the bridges crossing the Leie, but Graslei and Korenlei offer the best views. The parades typically happen after sunset when the lights reflect beautifully on the water. Some local boat operators offer rides during parade times, letting you join the procession from the water.
Where to Hang Out After Dark
The Vlasmarkt and Korenmarkt squares fill up with locals drinking outside once evening hits. You’ll find a mix of brown cafes serving Belgian beers and more modern cocktail spots. It’s where university students and locals actually hang out, not just tourists.
Overpoort Street turns into a student party zone Thursday through Saturday. It’s loud, cheap, and packed with college kids. Fun if that’s your scene, totally skippable if it’s not.
For something more laid-back, head to the Patershol neighborhood after 8 PM. This medieval quarter has cozy restaurants with candlelit tables spilling onto cobblestone streets. The vibe stays relaxed and romantic without feeling stuffy.
Live music happens most nights at spots like Charlatan or Vooruit, a former socialist meeting hall turned cultural center. Jazz clubs hide in basements around Sint-Pietersnieuwstraat. The city doesn’t stay up super late—many places close by 1 AM on weeknights—but you’ll find plenty open until 3 or 4 AM on weekends.
Practical Tips for Exploring Ghent
Ghent is compact and easy to navigate, with most attractions within walking distance of each other. You’ll save money by walking or biking, and visiting during spring or fall gives you the best weather without peak summer crowds.
Getting Around: Bikes, Trams, and Walkability
The historic center of Ghent is mostly car-free, making it perfect for walking. You can cover the main attractions on foot in about 20-30 minutes from end to end.
Biking is hugely popular with locals, and you’ll find bike rental shops throughout the city charging around €10-15 per day. The city has dedicated bike lanes and flat terrain, so it’s easy even if you’re not an experienced cyclist.
The De Lijn tram system connects outer neighborhoods to the center. Several bus lines also serve the city centre, with Korenmarkt being the most useful stop for visitors. Bus tickets can be bought at stops, online or through the De Lijn app. A single ticket costs €3, while a day pass runs about €7. Trams 1 and 4 are the most useful for visitors. You can buy tickets from machines at stops or through the De Lijn mobile app.
Most hotels are within a 15-minute walk of major sites like Gravensteen Castle and St. Bavo’s Cathedral. The compact layout means you rarely need public transport unless you’re staying outside the center.
Best Times to Visit for Mild Weather
April through June offers temperatures between 50-70°F with blooming flowers and longer daylight hours. You’ll avoid the peak tourist season while still enjoying outdoor cafes and canal walks.
September and October bring similar weather with fewer crowds than summer. The city hosts the Ghent Film Festival in October, adding cultural events to your visit.
July and August see temperatures around 75°F but attract the most tourists. Book accommodations early if you’re visiting during summer. Winter (December-February) drops to 35-45°F with shorter days, though Christmas markets in December create a festive atmosphere.
Money-Saving Tips for Attractions and Dining
The CityCard Gent costs €35 for 48 hours and includes free public transport plus entry to many museums and attractions. It pays for itself if you visit three or more sites.
Many churches, including St. Bavo’s Cathedral, offer free entry to the building itself. You only pay (€4-6) to see special sections like the Ghent Altarpiece.
Lunch menus at restaurants cost 30-40% less than dinner prices for similar food. You’ll find daily specials for €12-18 at local spots away from the main tourist squares.
Purchase fries, waffles, and sandwiches from street vendors for €3-5 instead of sit-down restaurants. Local bakeries sell fresh bread and pastries for budget-friendly breakfasts under €5.
Final Worlds!
With so much packed into a compact city center, Ghent is easy to explore and hard to leave. Most of the attractions on this list are within walking distance of each other, so you can tick off several in a single day. If you’re coming for a day trip, focus on the Belfry, Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, and Graslei. If you have more time, dig deeper into the neighborhoods, museums, and food scene. Either way, Ghent won’t disappoint.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most visitors wonder how to fit Ghent’s highlights into limited time, which landmarks live up to the hype, and where to find experiences that feel genuinely local rather than touristy.
Q: What are the classic “don’t-miss” sights in Ghent that are actually worth the time (and which ones can I skip)?
The Mystic Lamb altarpiece at St. Bavo’s Cathedral lives up to every bit of hype you’ve heard. It’s genuinely stunning and worth the entrance fee.
Gravensteen Castle delivers exactly what a medieval fortress should—stone walls, torture museum, and all. It’s touristy but in the best way possible.
The Belfry climb is worth it for the views and the carillon bells. Your legs might disagree halfway up, but the photos you’ll get prove otherwise.
You can honestly skip the Design Museum unless you’re really into furniture history. The building is nice, but most visitors find it underwhelming compared to other options.
Q: What are some genuinely unusual, off-the-beaten-path things to do in Ghent when you’ve seen the postcard spots?
Head to Werregarenstraat, also called Graffiti Street, where the entire alley gets constantly repainted by street artists. It changes every few weeks, so each visit shows something new.
The Patershol neighborhood hides tiny medieval streets that most tour groups skip entirely. You’ll find local restaurants and quiet courtyards that feel like secrets.
Visit the old fish market (Oude Vismijn) early morning when it actually functions as a market. The Art Nouveau building alone is worth seeing, but watching locals shop adds authenticity.
Check out Klein Begijnhof, a peaceful courtyard complex that feels worlds away from tourist Ghent. You can wander through for free and sit on benches where actual nuns once lived.
Q: What are the best free things to do in Ghent that don’t feel like a boring budget compromise?
Walking the canal routes costs nothing and gives you Ghent’s best angles. The stretch from St. Michael’s Bridge toward the castle never gets old.
All the churches except St. Bavo’s Cathedral are free to enter. St. Nicholas Church has beautiful architecture and zero entrance fees.
The graffiti art scene throughout the city center provides constant visual entertainment. Beyond Werregarenstraat, murals pop up on random walls throughout Patershol and the student quarter.
Sunday market at Bij Sint-Jacobs transforms the square into a flea market paradise. Even if you don’t buy anything, browsing through vintage finds and antiques beats most paid activities.
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