🌉 Where Gothic Towers Watch Over Glimmering Canals

Unlike the overly polished Bruges or the stately Brussels, Ghent strikes a perfect balance—gritty and grand, historic yet hip. As you wander the cobbled streets, you'll encounter towering cathedrals, secret alleyways filled with street art, and peaceful waterways slicing through the city like ribbons of silver.

📍 Location: In East Flanders, just 30 minutes by train from Brussels or Bruges.
🚆 Getting There: Ghent-St. Pieters Station connects easily with major Belgian cities.

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🏰 Gravensteen Castle – Step into a Medieval Movie Set

The Castle of the Counts (Gravensteen) is a rare intact fortress in the center of town, complete with a moat, towers, and tales of torture chambers. Built in the 12th century, it offers sweeping views from the battlements and a museum that doesn’t shy away from the city’s brutal past.

🕒 Opening Hours: Daily, typically 10 AM–6 PM
🎧 Must-Do: Rent the hilarious audio guide narrated by a Belgian comedian—it’s quirky, educational, and unforgettable.

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⛪ St. Bavo’s Cathedral – Home of the Mystic Lamb

Ghent is home to one of the world’s most important art treasures: The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb, painted by the van Eyck brothers in 1432. Located in St. Bavo’s Cathedral, this painting is not only a masterpiece of the Northern Renaissance but a mystery-laden icon with a dramatic history of thefts and restorations.

🎟️ Tip: Book tickets online to avoid long queues.
💡 Don’t Miss: The augmented reality experience that digitally restores the artwork before your eyes.

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🎨 Street Art and the Werregarenstraat – Ghent’s Rebel Side

If you thought Ghent was all castles and cathedrals—think again. The city embraces modern creativity through its street art scene, especially in Werregarenstraat (a.k.a. Graffiti Alley), where bold murals and political tags are constantly changing.

🗺️ Want More? Download the “Sorry, Not Sorry” street art map and explore dozens of sanctioned and unsanctioned artworks across the city.

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🛶 Cruise the Canals – A Floating Tour Through History

A boat ride is the most relaxing way to take in Ghent’s gothic skyline, ornate guild houses, and ivy-covered bridges. Knowledgeable guides share local legends as you float past iconic landmarks like the Graslei and Korenlei.

🛥️ Duration: 40–50 minutes
🧭 Tip: Choose sunset rides for golden light and epic photos.

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🧀 Food & Flavor – Flemish Fare Meets Culinary Cool

Ghent may be small, but its food scene is mighty:

• Try Waterzooi: A creamy chicken or fish stew that originated in Ghent.

• Cuberdons: Cone-shaped raspberry candies, known as “Gentse neuzen” (Ghent noses).

• Local Beer: Don’t leave without sipping a Gruut, a medieval-style beer brewed without hops.

🍽️ Where to Eat:

• De Graslei – Classic Belgian dishes with a view.

• Roots – Seasonal tasting menus with local ingredients.

• Holy Food Market – A church-turned-food-hall with international flair.

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🛌 Where to Stay – Sleep Surrounded by History

• Luxury: Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Reylof – An 18th-century mansion with spa and elegance.

• Mid-Range: 1898 The Post – A beautifully restored former post office with stunning decor.

• Budget: Hostel Uppelink – Affordable beds with river views and kayaks for rent!

🕰️ Best Time to Visit:

• April–June and September–October offer mild weather and fewer tourists.

• July is festival season—don’t miss the Gentse Feesten, a 10-day citywide celebration with music, art, and street performances.

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💡 Why Ghent Should Top Your Belgium Bucket List

Ghent is a city that doesn’t try to impress—it just does. From climbing medieval towers to discovering quirky cafés down hidden alleys, it charms visitors with authenticity and bold contrasts. It’s not a city of postcards—it’s a city of stories.