Ghent, Belgium's hidden gem

During my trip to Belgium (no swimming) 😝 – I only had one day to unwind in one of two famous and romantic cities: in Bruges or in Ghent.

Now, that Bruges is preferred to Ghent, I knew this not only from its very curvy name, but also from everywhere I researched, 'day trip to Bruges', presided. I was tempted, I admit! But, at the train station, as I imagined myself in a boat, sailing through the network of canals, while the willows filled my view—I saw such huge piles and piles of tourists, all headed for Bruges! "Ah NO! I don't have time to waste in tourist traps, July is not the right month for this city.'' - I thought. So, 'Gent it is! Canals and picturesque buildings? Check! Stunning architecture? Absolutely! Gastronomic pleasure? Yes, yes 😊

How to get to Ghent?

To go to Ghent, you can fly to Charleroi airport near Brussels and get the bus that takes you to Ghent for about 1 hour and a half and costs approx €20. Meanwhile, if you are staying in Brussels, route to Ghent by train it takes about 40 minutes and costs €12,20.

When to visit Ghent?

Ghent does not lose its charm in any season and can be visited at any time of the year. The weather is mostly cool from spring to autumn, while winter is cold. I personally visited it in July, and fortunately for me the weather was cool and there were not many tourists.

We suggest you visit the city on the dates 31 January – 4 February 2024, as Ghent will host the Festival of Lights, which takes place once every three years and gives the city a completely magical look. Meanwhile, every year in July it is held Ghent Festival, which features theatrical performances, live music, open markets and more. October is also a very good time to visit the city, as the students return, which means it is PARTY TIME 🥳

Tip: On the first Sunday of every month, every shop in Ghent is open and public transport is completely free.

What to do in Ghent?

Although a small city, Ghent has so much to see and enjoy in a day's stay! If you want to fully enjoy the city, take it bicycles for rent (which you can find EVERYWHERE, as you can see in my Highlights) and pedal from one attraction to another.

Start your journey at Graslei and Korenlei, the historic centers of Ghent. These two parts of the city are separated in the middle by a canal, where you can take a boat ride (costs €9 for adults) for a completely different experience!

In the historic center of Ghent there is also Gravensteen castle (€10-€12), one of the most attractive points of the city with its fabulous view. It has been the home of many counts in this city, but it has also served as a prison, a court, and even a cotton mill! You can learn more about its past in the castle museum. And while you're here, stroll the streets Patershol, where you can enjoy the local cuisine of the city.

The next stop should be Saint Bavo's Cathedral (€8), which is home to one of the oldest and most important Christian works in Europe, the Ghent Altarpiece. Otherwise known as St. Bavo's Cathedral, this building offers a fantastic example of the city's Gothic architecture.

In the historic center of the city, you should not get lost Saint Peter's Abbey. The garden at the back of it is one of Ghent's best kept secrets, where nature seems to have swallowed up the building making you wonder how it's still standing.

While you wait for the sun to set, sit in one of the canalside bar gardens at Graslei to gather strength with a traditional Belgian beer, as you will need them 😉. And once you feel ready, right next to Saint Bavo's Cathedral there is also The Belfry of Ghent with its spectacular appearance. Feel free to climb the stairs (or take the elevator) to the top for an unforgettable view of the sunset over the city.