30 Best Tourist spots & Things to Do in Ghent | Jan 2025
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What activities can I do in Ghent?
There are plenty of things to do in Ghent, Belgium. Here are some of the top attractions and activities: 1. Visit Gravensteen Castle: Explore the medieval castle that dates back to the 12th century. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the city. 2. Take a canal boat tour: Discover Ghent's picturesque canals and admire the stunning architecture from a different perspective. 3. Stroll around the historic center: Wander through the charming streets of Ghent's old town, filled with beautiful buildings, cozy cafes, and boutique shops. 4. Visit Saint Bavo's Cathedral: Marvel at the impressive Gothic architecture and see the famous painting ""The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb"" by the Van Eyck brothers. 5. Explore the Ghent Altarpiece: Located in the Saint Bavo's Cathedral, this renowned painting is considered one of the most important works of art in the world. 6. Enjoy the local cuisine: Ghent is known for its delicious food, so be sure to try some traditional dishes like waterzooi (a creamy chicken or fish stew) and Gentse neuzen (a cone-shaped candy). 7. Visit the Design Museum Gent: Discover the world of design through various exhibitions showcasing contemporary and historical design pieces. 8. Take a bike ride: Ghent is a bike-friendly city, so rent a bicycle and explore the city's parks, riverside trails, and hidden corners. 9. Visit the Ghent City Museum (STAM): Learn about the history and culture of Ghent through interactive exhibits and multimedia presentations. 10. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife: Ghent has a lively nightlife scene with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues. Experience the city's vibrant atmosphere after dark. These are just a few of the many things to do in Ghent. The city offers a mix of history, culture, and culinary delights, making it a fantastic destination for travelers.
When is the best time to travel to Ghent?
The best time to travel to Ghent, Belgium is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) seasons. During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10 to 20 degrees Celsius (50 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit). Spring is a great time to visit Ghent as the city comes alive with blooming flowers and trees, and there are various festivals and events taking place. The Ghent Floralies, a renowned flower exhibition, is held every five years in April and May, showcasing beautiful floral displays throughout the city. Additionally, the Ghent Jazz Festival takes place in late May, attracting music enthusiasts from around the world. Autumn is also a wonderful time to visit Ghent as the city's parks and gardens display vibrant fall foliage. The weather is generally mild, making it ideal for exploring the city's historic sites and enjoying outdoor activities. Moreover, during autumn, Ghent hosts the Film Fest Gent, an international film festival that showcases a wide range of movies and attracts film lovers from all over. It is worth noting that summer (June to August) is also a popular time to visit Ghent, as the weather is generally warm and sunny. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so the city can be quite crowded. If you prefer to avoid the crowds, spring and autumn are the best times to visit Ghent.
Travel culture you should know when traveling to Ghent
Ghent, located in the Flemish region of Belgium, is a city that is rich in culture and history. Here are some highlights of the travel culture in Ghent: 1. Medieval Architecture: Ghent is known for its stunning medieval architecture, with the historic city center being one of the best-preserved in Europe. The iconic Saint Bavo's Cathedral, the Belfry of Ghent, and the Gravensteen Castle are must-visit landmarks that showcase the city's architectural heritage. 2. Art and Museums: Ghent is a hub for art lovers, with several world-class museums and galleries. The Museum of Fine Arts (MSK) houses an impressive collection of Flemish and Dutch art, including works by Jan van Eyck and Hieronymus Bosch. The Museum of Contemporary Art (SMAK) showcases modern and contemporary art, while the STAM museum delves into the city's history. 3. Festivals and Events: Ghent hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, adding to its vibrant cultural scene. The Ghent Festival (Gentse Feesten) in July is one of the largest cultural events in Europe, featuring music, street theater, and local cuisine. The Light Festival, held every three years, illuminates the city with stunning light installations. 4. Flemish Food and Drink: Ghent is a great place to indulge in traditional Flemish cuisine. From hearty stews and moules-frites (mussels with fries) to famous Belgian chocolates and waffles, the city offers a wide range of culinary delights. Don't forget to try the local beer, as Ghent is known for its craft breweries and cozy pubs. 5. Cycling Culture: Like the rest of Belgium, Ghent has a strong cycling culture. Exploring the city by bike is a popular way to get around and experience its charming streets and canals. You can rent a bicycle and join the locals in enjoying the city's bike-friendly infrastructure. 6. Universities and Student Life: Ghent is home to several universities, making it a vibrant student city. The presence of students adds to the youthful and lively atmosphere, with numerous bars, cafes, and music venues catering to their tastes. Overall, Ghent offers a unique blend of history, art, food, and a lively cultural scene. It's a city that is proud of its heritage while embracing modernity, making it a must-visit destination for travelers interested in Belgian culture.
Shopping list or souvenirs to buy when traveling to Ghent
When visiting Ghent, Belgium, there are several unique items you can consider adding to your shopping list or purchasing as souvenirs. Here are some suggestions: 1. Belgian Chocolate: Belgium is famous for its delicious chocolates, and Ghent has numerous chocolate shops where you can find a wide variety of flavors and brands. Look for artisanal chocolates, pralines, truffles, or even chocolate spreads. 2. Speculoos: These traditional Belgian spiced biscuits are a popular treat. You can find them in various shapes and sizes, including the famous speculoos spread, which is a creamy and sweet spread made from crushed speculoos biscuits. 3. Belgian Beer: Belgium is renowned for its beer culture, and Ghent has its fair share of breweries and beer shops. Consider purchasing some local Belgian beers, such as Trappist beers, abbey beers, lambics, or other craft beers. 4. Ghent Lace: Ghent has a rich history of lace-making, and you can find exquisite handmade lace products like tablecloths, doilies, handkerchiefs, or lace accessories. Look for shops that specialize in lace products or visit the Lace Centre in Ghent. 5. Artisanal Crafts: Ghent has a vibrant arts and crafts scene, with many local artisans producing unique handmade items. Look for pottery, ceramics, glassware, jewelry, or leather goods made by local artists. 6. Vinyl Records: Ghent is known for its music scene, and there are several record stores where you can find a wide selection of vinyl records. Whether you're into contemporary music or classic vinyl, you're likely to find something to suit your taste. 7. Belgian Waffles: While you may not be able to bring home freshly made waffles, you can find packaged waffle mixes or waffle irons to recreate the delicious Belgian waffles at home. 8. Flemish Art Reproductions: Ghent is home to several famous Flemish painters, such as Jan van Eyck and Hieronymus Bosch. Look for art shops or museums where you can find reproductions of their famous works or other Flemish masters. Remember to check customs regulations and restrictions when purchasing items like food or alcohol to ensure you can bring them back to your home country.
Ghent travel review
Ghent: A Hidden Gem in Belgium Nestled in the heart of Flanders, Ghent is a city that often goes unnoticed by travelers exploring Belgium. However, those who do venture to this charming destination are rewarded with a wealth of history, culture, and beauty. With its stunning medieval architecture, vibrant arts scene, and welcoming atmosphere, Ghent is truly a hidden gem that should not be missed. One of the first things that strikes visitors about Ghent is its picturesque cityscape. The city is known for its well-preserved medieval buildings, with the iconic Gravensteen Castle standing proudly in the center. This imposing fortress, dating back to the 12th century, offers a glimpse into the city's rich past and offers panoramic views of Ghent from its tower. As you stroll through the cobblestone streets, you'll encounter countless other architectural marvels, such as the Saint Bavo's Cathedral with its famous Ghent Altarpiece, a masterpiece by the Van Eyck brothers. Ghent is not just a city frozen in time; it is a vibrant hub of creativity and innovation. The city is home to several renowned art museums, including the Museum of Fine Arts and the Design Museum. These institutions showcase a diverse range of artworks, from classical masterpieces to contemporary installations. Additionally, Ghent boasts a thriving street art scene, with colorful murals adorning the city's walls. Exploring the city's streets, you'll stumble upon hidden gems created by both local and international artists, adding a modern twist to Ghent's historical backdrop. Beyond its architectural and artistic wonders, Ghent is a city that knows how to enjoy life. The locals, known as ""Gentenaars,"" are known for their warm hospitality and love for good food and drink. The city is famous for its culinary scene, offering a wide range of gastronomic delights. From traditional Flemish dishes like waterzooi and stoofvlees to international cuisine, Ghent has something to satisfy every palate. Be sure to visit one of the many local breweries and sample some of the famous Belgian beers, such as the Trappist beers brewed by the monks at the nearby Saint Sixtus Abbey. Ghent also knows how to celebrate, with a calendar full of festivals and events throughout the year. The city's most famous celebration is the Ghent Festival, held in July. During this ten-day extravaganza, the city comes alive with music, street theater, and culinary delights. The festival attracts visitors from all over the world, creating a lively and festive atmosphere that is truly unforgettable. In conclusion, Ghent is a city that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and modernity. Its stunning architecture, vibrant arts scene, and welcoming atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for any traveler exploring Belgium. Whether you're wandering through its medieval streets, admiring its world-class art collections, or indulging in its culinary delights, Ghent will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. So, why not venture off the beaten path and discover this hidden gem for yourself?