Is Ghent worth visiting? Yes, without a doubt. In fact, Ghent ended up being one of the biggest surprises from my trip to Belgium. I expected a nice historic city, but I didn’t expect to enjoy it as much as I did. Walking along the canals, exploring the medieval streets, and relaxing in the lively city centre made it easy to see why so many travellers fall in love with this place.
Ghent is a historic city in Belgium that often gets overshadowed by Brussels and Bruges. That is a shame because it has many of the same things people love about those cities, often with fewer crowds. The city is known for its canals, medieval buildings, impressive castle, and vibrant atmosphere thanks to its large student population.
In this guide, I’ll cover the top reasons why Ghent is worth visiting and share some useful travel tips and advice to help you plan your trip. If you’re looking for a destination that combines history, culture, and local life, keep reading to discover the many reasons why Ghent is worth visiting.
Table of Contents
Top Attractions in Ghent
- Ghent: Guided Walking Tour
- Ghent: 50-Minute Medieval Center Guided Boat Trip
- Ghent: Belgian Waffle-Making Workshop with Beer Tasting
- Ghent: City Highlights and Hidden Gems Guided Bike Tour
- Ghent: Museum of Fine Arts Entry Ticket
- From Brussels: Guided Day Trip to Bruges and Ghent
- From Brussels: Full-Day Antwerp and Ghent Guided Tour
Top Reasons You Should Visit Ghent
1. One of Europe’s Most Beautiful Medieval City Centers
Ghent was probably my biggest surprise in Belgium. Before visiting, I assumed it would simply be a quieter version of Bruges, but it turned out to have a completely different personality. The city center is packed with medieval buildings, churches, canals, and old guild houses, yet it somehow feels more authentic and less touristy than some other famous European cities.
Walking through Ghent for the first time felt like stepping into a storybook. The Graslei and Korenlei, two streets facing each other along the river, quickly became my favorite part of the city. Historic buildings line the waterfront, and many date back several centuries. I found myself stopping every few minutes to take photos because nearly every angle looked picture-perfect.
What I liked most was that Ghent still feels like a living city. Students cycle past centuries-old churches, locals sit outside cafés, and residents go about their daily routines among some of Belgium’s finest architecture. It never felt like an open-air museum created purely for visitors, which made the experience much more enjoyable.
2. A Relaxed Alternative to Bruges
Bruges receives most of the attention from travelers visiting Belgium, but I actually preferred Ghent. Bruges is undeniably beautiful, but it can feel crowded during the middle of the day, especially when tour groups arrive. Ghent seemed much calmer and more balanced.
I visited both cities during the same trip and noticed the difference almost immediately. In Ghent, I could sit beside a canal without struggling to find a free bench or wait in long lines for attractions. The streets were busy enough to feel lively but not so packed that sightseeing became stressful.
That relaxed atmosphere encouraged me to slow down and spend more time exploring side streets and lesser-known neighborhoods. Instead of rushing through a checklist of attractions, I found myself enjoying simple moments like drinking coffee beside the river or watching boats pass beneath old stone bridges. For me, Ghent offered a better balance between beauty and everyday life.
3. A Fascinating Medieval History
Ghent was one of Europe’s richest and most powerful cities during the Middle Ages. At one point, it was second only to Paris in size north of the Alps. Much of that wealth came from the textile trade, which helped finance the impressive churches, guild halls, and fortifications that still stand today.
I enjoyed learning about this history because it explains why Ghent feels so grand. Buildings like the Belfry and St. Bavo’s Cathedral were not constructed simply to look impressive. They were symbols of the city’s wealth and influence. Walking around Ghent, it is easy to imagine merchants, craftsmen, and traders filling the streets centuries ago.
The city does a good job of preserving its past without making it feel inaccessible. Information boards, museums, and guided tours help visitors understand the stories behind the buildings. I found myself appreciating the city much more once I understood how important it had once been.
4. Gravensteen Castle in the Heart of the City
One of Ghent’s most unusual attractions is Gravensteen Castle. Built in the twelfth century, it is a medieval fortress complete with towers, thick stone walls, and defensive features. Unlike many castles that sit outside urban areas, this one stands right in the middle of the city.
I was surprised by how well preserved it is. Walking across the drawbridge and entering the courtyard felt like stepping back in time. Visitors can climb towers, walk along the battlements, and explore rooms that once housed noble families and prisoners.
The castle also contains a collection of medieval weapons and torture devices, which was both interesting and slightly unsettling. I particularly enjoyed the views from the top because they offer a different perspective of Ghent’s rooftops and church towers. It was one of the highlights of my visit and a place I would recommend even to travelers who are not usually interested in castles.
5. Beautiful Canals Without the Crowds
Canals are often associated with cities like Amsterdam or Bruges, but Ghent has some lovely waterways of its own. The rivers Lys and Scheldt flow through the city, creating scenic routes lined with historic buildings, terraces, and bridges.
I spent one evening simply walking along the canals and thought it was one of the most pleasant experiences of the trip. The reflections of old buildings in the water created some fantastic photo opportunities, especially as the sun started to set. It felt peaceful and much less hectic than canal areas in some larger cities.
Boat tours are available, and I decided to join one to learn more about the city’s history. It turned out to be a good decision because seeing Ghent from the water provided a completely different perspective. The guide pointed out details that I would have missed while walking around, and it helped me appreciate how important the waterways once were for trade.
6. A Vibrant Student Population
Ghent is home to one of Belgium’s largest universities, with tens of thousands of students living in the city. This gives Ghent a youthful energy that sets it apart from many historic destinations. Instead of feeling frozen in the past, the city feels lively and constantly evolving.
I noticed the student influence everywhere. Affordable cafés, bookshops, bars, and casual restaurants were scattered throughout the center. Even on weekdays, squares and terraces were filled with people chatting, studying, or enjoying drinks with friends.
I think this younger population helps keep Ghent feeling authentic. It prevents the city from becoming overly dependent on tourism and creates an atmosphere that feels more local. I enjoyed seeing students relaxing beside medieval buildings because it highlighted how Ghent successfully combines history with modern life.
7. Outstanding Belgian Food and Beer
Belgium is known for its food, and Ghent certainly lives up to expectations. Traditional dishes, excellent beer, and tempting desserts can be found throughout the city. There are also many vegetarian restaurants, partly because Ghent promotes meat-free dining more actively than most other European cities.
I sampled Belgian fries, waffles, and local stews during my visit and rarely had a disappointing meal. One dish I particularly enjoyed was waterzooi, a creamy stew traditionally made with chicken or fish. It felt comforting and filling after spending hours walking around the city.
Beer lovers will also have plenty to enjoy. Belgium produces hundreds of different beers, and Ghent’s bars often stock local varieties that are difficult to find elsewhere. I visited a traditional pub one evening and was overwhelmed by the number of options available. Even someone with only a casual interest in beer can appreciate the passion Belgians have for brewing.
8. Stunning Churches and Religious Art
Ghent’s skyline is dominated by church towers, and several of them are worth visiting. St. Bavo’s Cathedral is the most famous because it houses the Ghent Altarpiece, one of the most important artworks in European history. Created by Jan and Hubert van Eyck in the fifteenth century, the altarpiece has survived theft, wars, and political upheaval.
I am not usually someone who spends a lot of time looking at religious art, but seeing the Ghent Altarpiece in person was genuinely impressive. The level of detail was incredible, and it was easy to understand why art historians consider it such an important masterpiece.
The cathedral itself was also beautiful, with high ceilings, stained glass windows, and ornate chapels. I found it to be a peaceful place to escape the busy streets for a while. Visiting these churches helped me understand how wealthy and influential Ghent once was.
9. A City That Looks Even Better at Night
Ghent changes dramatically after sunset. Many historic buildings are illuminated, creating a completely different atmosphere from the daytime. The canals reflect the lights, towers stand out against the night sky, and streets become quieter as day-trippers head back to Brussels or Bruges.
One evening, I decided to take a walk without any specific destination in mind. It ended up being one of the best decisions I made during the trip. The city felt almost magical, and there were moments when I had entire streets to myself.
I think Ghent might actually be more beautiful at night than during the day. The lighting highlights architectural details that are easy to miss in daylight, and the absence of crowds makes it easier to appreciate the city’s charm. If you visit Ghent, I would strongly recommend staying overnight rather than rushing back to another city.
10. An Excellent Base for Exploring Belgium
Ghent’s location makes it one of the best places in Belgium to use as a base. Brussels is only about thirty minutes away by train, while Bruges, Antwerp, and Leuven can also be reached easily. This means visitors can explore several destinations without changing accommodation.
I found this very convenient because it allowed me to enjoy Ghent’s calmer atmosphere while still taking day trips elsewhere. One day I explored Bruges, another day I visited Antwerp, and each evening I returned to Ghent for dinner and a walk along the canals.
For travelers who only have a few days in Belgium, Ghent offers a little bit of everything. It has medieval architecture, castles, canals, good food, museums, and a lively local scene. By the time I left, I felt it was not only one of Belgium’s best cities but also one of the most underrated destinations in Western Europe.
Where to Stay in Ghent
- Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Reylof Ghent – A luxurious 4-star mansion hotel from 1724 with a wellness pool and courtyard garden, a short walk from Ghent’s historic centre.
- 1898 The Post & Porter’s house – A striking boutique hotel inside a converted Neo-Gothic post office right on the Graslei, with cathedral views and a popular cocktail bar.
- Ghent River Hotel – A 4-star hotel blending former factory buildings and a 15th-century mansion, right on the river near Vrijdagmarkt.
- Hostel Uppelink – A budget-friendly hostel in a 13th-century building right on St. Michael’s Bridge, with some of the best canal views in the city.
Travel Tips for Visiting Ghent
When to Visit Ghent
I think the best times to visit Ghent are May, June, September, and early October. The weather is usually mild, and it’s comfortable to spend long days exploring the city on foot. Summer brings outdoor dining, festivals, and busy canal-side terraces, although it can also attract more visitors. Winter is colder, but the Christmas markets and festive lights create a cosy atmosphere. I visited in September and thought it was the perfect balance. The weather was pleasant, and the city felt lively without being overcrowded.
How to Get to Ghent
Most international visitors arrive through Brussels Airport, which is about an hour away by train. Airlines from all over Europe and many long-haul destinations operate regular flights there. Direct trains run frequently from Brussels Airport to Ghent, making the journey simple and convenient. Ghent is also well connected by rail to Brussels, Bruges, Antwerp, and other Belgian cities. Personally, I think arriving by train is the easiest option because Belgium’s rail network is excellent, and Ghent’s station offers easy access to the city centre by tram.
Getting Around Ghent
Ghent is a very walkable city, and most visitors will spend much of their time exploring on foot. The historic centre is compact, and many attractions are located close together. For longer journeys, the city has an excellent tram and bus network operated by De Lijn. Tickets can be purchased through the De Lijn app, from ticket machines, or with contactless payment on many services. Cycling is also very popular, and bike rentals are easy to find throughout the city. Personally, I found walking to be the best way to experience Ghent, while the trams were useful for travelling to and from the train station.
How Long to Spend in Ghent
I think two to three days is the perfect amount of time for Ghent. Two days gives you enough time to explore the historic centre, visit Gravensteen Castle, take a canal cruise, and enjoy the local food scene. With three days, you can explore the museums at a slower pace or take a day trip to nearby cities such as Bruges or Antwerp. Personally, I would recommend three days because Ghent is one of those cities that becomes more enjoyable the longer you stay and wander its streets.
Conclusion
So, is Ghent worth visiting? Absolutely. From its beautiful canals and medieval architecture to its lively atmosphere and fascinating history, there are plenty of reasons to spend time here. Ghent offers many of the things people love about Belgium while feeling a little more relaxed and authentic than some of the country’s busiest tourist destinations. If you’re planning a trip to Belgium, Ghent is a city that deserves a place near the top of your itinerary.