Ghent, Belgium: Medieval Charm Meets Modern Creativity in East Flanders

Ghent, Belgium

🏰 Ghent, Belgium: A Medieval Gem with Modern Flair

Nestled along the banks of the Leie River, Ghent is a stunning blend of medieval grandeur and modern vibrancy. As the capital of the East Flanders region, Ghent boasts a rich history, remarkable architecture, and a lively cultural scene. With its canals, castle, and Gothic churches, the city feels like stepping back in time, while its trendy cafes, art galleries, and dynamic festivals keep it firmly in the present. Whether you’re here for the medieval sights, the modern art, or simply the warm Belgian hospitality, Ghent has something to offer every type of traveler.

🏰 Historic Landmarks: A Step Back in Time

Gravensteen Castle: One of Ghent’s most iconic landmarks, Gravensteen Castle is a well-preserved medieval fortress that dates back to the 12th century. Explore its towers, dungeons, and armory, and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the top of the castle.
St. Bavo's Cathedral: This Gothic masterpiece is home to the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb, a world-renowned artwork by the van Eyck brothers. The cathedral’s imposing structure and its impressive interior are a must-see for art lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Belfry of Ghent: The Belfry of Ghent is one of the city’s medieval treasures. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers stunning views over the city and is home to a carillon that still rings out across the town. Climb to the top for a spectacular panoramic view of Ghent’s skyline.
Korenmarkt Square: Located at the heart of the city, Korenmarkt Square is the perfect starting point for exploring Ghent. The square is surrounded by historic buildings, including the St. Nicholas’ Church and the Guild Houses, which are beautiful examples of Flemish architecture.

Ghent is packed with architectural treasures that reflect its importance in medieval Europe. These historical sites transport visitors back to the city’s prosperous past.

🎨 Culture & Art: A Fusion of Old and New

Museum of Fine Arts (MSK): Ghent’s Museum of Fine Arts houses an impressive collection of works from the Middle Ages to the 20th century, including pieces by Jan van Eyck, Hieronymus Bosch, and Rubens. It’s a must-see for art lovers, offering a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
STAM – Ghent City Museum: Explore the history and culture of Ghent at STAM, the city’s museum. The museum showcases the evolution of Ghent, from its early medieval roots to its modern-day status as a cultural hub. The interactive exhibits make it an engaging experience for all ages.
The Design Museum: Ghent is a city that loves design. The Design Museum is dedicated to modern design, fashion, and applied arts, showcasing works from Flemish designers as well as international pieces. It’s the place to visit if you're interested in design, from furniture to textiles and everything in between.
Graffiti Street: Ghent is also home to some incredible street art, particularly on Werregarenstraat (known as Graffiti Street), where walls are covered in vibrant, ever-changing works of art. The street is a visual feast for anyone interested in urban creativity.

Ghent’s cultural scene is diverse, with a blend of historical masterpieces and contemporary design, making it a vibrant place for artists and visitors alike.

🍻 Food & Drink: Belgian Flavors with a Ghent Twist

Waterzooi: A classic Belgian dish that originated in Ghent, Waterzooi is a rich, creamy stew made with chicken or fish, vegetables, and herbs. The dish is hearty, comforting, and a must-try while in the city.
Stoverij: Also known as Flemish beef stew, this dish features tender chunks of beef cooked slowly in beer, often served with fries or mashed potatoes.
Belgian Waffles: No visit to Belgium is complete without trying the famous Belgian waffles. Whether you prefer them crispy and golden or soft and fluffy, these sweet treats are available all around Ghent.
Belgian Beer: Belgium is known worldwide for its beer, and Ghent is no exception. Local breweries produce a wide variety of belgian beers, from pale ales to dark stouts. Don’t forget to visit one of Ghent’s many brasseries and enjoy a refreshing pint.
Where to Eat:
- De Graslei: A charming restaurant located along the picturesque Graslei Canal, offering a wide selection of Belgian dishes and beers.
- Het Waterhuis aan de Bierkant: A cozy bar by the water, offering an impressive array of local Belgian beers.

Ghent’s cuisine is a true reflection of Belgian culinary traditions—rich, flavorful, and satisfying.

🏨 Where to Stay: A Mix of Charm and Comfort

Luxury:
- Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Reylof Ghent: An elegant hotel with modern design and luxurious amenities. It’s located near the city center, perfect for exploring Ghent’s main attractions.
- 1898 The Post: A stylish boutique hotel housed in a former post office building, offering a blend of historic charm and modern comfort.
Mid-Range:
- Hotel de Flandre: Situated along the Leie River, this hotel offers comfortable rooms, a great location, and excellent service at a reasonable price.
- NH Gent Belfort: Located just steps away from Korenmarkt, this hotel offers contemporary rooms and stunning views of Ghent’s historic buildings.
Budget:
- Hostel Uppelink: A budget-friendly hostel located near the Graslei. It’s a great option for travelers looking for an affordable, no-frills stay.
- The House of Edward: A cozy guesthouse offering simple yet stylish accommodations at an affordable price.

Ghent’s accommodations cater to a wide range of travelers, from luxury seekers to budget-conscious visitors.

🚶‍♂️ Things to Do in Ghent: Explore the City’s Charm

Walk along the Graslei and Korenlei: The Graslei and Korenlei are two of Ghent’s most picturesque streets, lined with beautiful medieval buildings along the Leie River. A leisurely stroll here offers stunning views of the city’s skyline.
Boat Tour of Ghent’s Canals: Ghent’s canals are one of its most defining features. Take a boat tour along the Leie River to see the city from a different perspective, with stunning views of historic buildings, bridges, and towers.
Climb the Belfry of Ghent: For incredible panoramic views of Ghent and beyond, make sure to climb to the top of the Belfry of Ghent.
Visit the Friday Market: One of the oldest markets in Ghent, the Friday Market is a great place to shop for local produce, flowers, and Belgian specialties. It’s a lively spot to experience local culture.

Ghent is a wonderful city to explore on foot or by boat, with plenty of scenic spots and hidden gems to discover.

💡 Travel Tips for Ghent

Best Time to Visit: Ghent is beautiful year-round, but the best times to visit are in spring and fall when the weather is mild and the city is less crowded. The Ghent Festival in July is a major highlight if you enjoy music and cultural events.
Currency: Euro (€)
Language: Dutch (Flemish), though most people speak English in tourist areas.
Transportation: Ghent is a compact city, and many attractions are within walking distance of each other. There are also trams and buses for getting around the city. Ghent’s train station makes it easy to travel to other cities in Belgium.

Ghent’s walkability and excellent public transport system make it easy to explore.

📸 Must-Capture Moments

The Belfry of Ghent against the backdrop of the setting sun 🌇
The medieval architecture along the Graslei Canal 🏰
A plate of Waterzooi with a Belgian beer 🍽️
The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb in St. Bavo’s Cathedral 🎨
Street art on Graffiti Street 🎨