Things to do in Ghent

No. 1 of Best Things to Do in East-Flanders

Castle of the Counts

Castle of the Counts stands on the banks of the Leie River in the old town of Ghent and was once the residence and seat of power of the Counts of Flanders. Built entirely of stone, it features thick walls, round towers, battlements, and an inner courtyard, with an exterior that bears the distinct characteristics of medieval military architecture. With the development of the city, it has served various public functions, including as a courthouse and prison, witnessing the social changes of Ghent throughout different historical periods. Today, it has become a historical and cultural attraction open to the public, with exhibition spaces inside that showcase the history of the building, medieval life, and historical materials related to justice and punishment.

No. 13 of Best Things to Do in Belgium

Ghent City Center

Ghent City Center is the historic core of the famous Belgian city of Ghent, which prospered during the Middle Ages thanks to the wool and grain trade, and where canals, cobblestone streets, and Gothic architecture remain largely preserved to this day. The Graslei and Korenlei along the Leie are the highlights, with rows of gabled guild houses standing along the river and reflecting in the water. It is also a university city, where a youthful atmosphere keeps the ancient streets vibrant. Important landmarks here include Saint Bavo's Cathedral, the Belfry of Gent, Saint Nicholas' Church, and Gravensteen, showcasing Ghent's prosperous history as a center of trade and the textile industry during the Middle Ages.

Selected for Best Things to Do in Belgium

Saint Nicholas' Church

Saint Nicholas' Church is located in the city center of Ghent, Belgium. This 13th-century Gothic building is known for its soaring tower and exquisite stone carvings, and is one of the iconic landmarks of Ghent. The interior of the church is simple and solemn, with stained glass windows and an ancient pipe organ adding a unique charm. Visitors inside the church can admire the medieval architectural details and artworks, and feel the rich historical atmosphere. The church regularly hosts concerts and religious events, providing visitors with an opportunity to experience local culture. The area around the church has convenient transportation, and other major attractions in Ghent, such as theBelfry of Namurand Saint Bavo's Cathedral, are within walking distance. There are many cafes and restaurants nearby where visitors can enjoy local cuisine after their visit. Please remain quiet during your visit, respect the atmosphere of the religious site, and pay attention to the opening hours and visiting rules.

No. 3 of Best Things to Do in East-Flanders

Saint Bavo's Cathedral

Saint Bavo's CathedralLocated in Ghent, Belgium, this magnificent Gothic structure boasts a long history and rich religious cultural significance. As both a religious and artistic attraction, it serves not only as a spiritual home for believers but also as a treasure trove for art enthusiasts to explore medieval art. The cathedral is renowned for its magnificent architecture and exquisite interior decorations, with towering spires reaching into the clouds and interiors filled with intricate carvings and stained glass windows, creating a solemn and sacred atmosphere. The famous artistic treasure is Jan van Eyck's "Ghent Altarpiece," which attracts countless visitors to admire it. In addition to artworks, it offers a rich historical and cultural experience. Visitors can explore the cathedral's underground crypts to learn about its historical evolution and religious ceremonies. The guided tour service provides in-depth background information, helping visitors better understand the cathedral's significant role in Ghent's history. Saint Bavo's CathedralMore than just a religious structure, it's a convergence of art and history. Whether you're a visitor fascinated by religious culture or someone curious about art and architecture, this place offers rich knowledge and unique experiences, making it a must-visit destination for exploring Ghent's cultural heritage.

No. 4 of Best Things to Do in East-Flanders

Belfry of Gent

The Belfry of Gent and the Cloth Hall are located together, but the highlight of the visit is the Belfry of Gent. It is the highest point of the tour. Climbing to the top platform here, you can see the city views on both sides of the river.

St Michael's Bridge

The St. Michael Bridge is a historic and picturesque bridge in Ghent, Belgium, spanning the Leie River that flows through the city. The bridge has become one of the important landmarks of Ghent with its unique architectural style and historical background. The bridge is named after the nearby St. Michael's Monastery, which was once the center of religious and cultural life in Ghent. The St. Michael Bridge was built in the late 19th century and has retained its original classical style despite several restorations and reconstructions. The design of the bridge combines elements of neo-Gothic and Renaissance styles, and its shape is elegant and magnificent, especially suitable for photographic works. Standing on the bridge, visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery of Ghent's historical city, including the old buildings in the city, colorful houses and the leisurely flowing Leie River. This bridge is not only a major transportation route, but also carries the profound history and culture of Ghent. The sculptures, stone carvings and exquisite iron railings on the bridge all show the high level of traditional Belgian craftsmanship. Especially at dusk, the St. Michael's Bridge under the setting sun, the ancient buildings in the background and the reflection on the water form a picturesque scene, attracting countless tourists and photography enthusiasts to take pictures.

Museum voor Schone Kunsten

The Museum voor Schone Kunsten is a cultural treasure brimming with artistic charm and historical heritage, located in the historic city of Ghent, Belgium. As a museum dedicated to modern and contemporary art, it houses an extensive collection of outstanding artworks, tracing the artistic evolution from the late 19th century to the present day. The exhibited works encompass not only paintings and sculptures but also photography, installation art, and various other artistic forms, showcasing the innovation and expression of artists across different historical periods. Visitors can admire works by master artists from around the world, such as James Ensor and Constant Permeke, experiencing the diversity and depth of art. The Museum voor Schone Kunsten is not just a venue for displaying art—it actively hosts temporary exhibitions, art lectures, and workshops to foster artistic exchange and public engagement. For art enthusiasts, it's an ideal place to explore artistic ideas and enjoy visual delights. Whether immersing yourself in the world of art or participating in interactive activities, the Museum voor Schone Kunsten in Ghent offers an inspiring and enlightening artistic journey. It's not just a place to admire art but also a cultural space that sparks creativity and reflection.

Sparkx Gent

Flanders Expo

Planet Group Arena