7 days in Ghent, Belgium: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
Imagine being at the heart of medieval Europe, surrounded by quaint cobblestone streets, charming canals, and exquisite architecture. Now, open your eyes because Ghent, Belgium is that city! This northern gem has a rich history and boasts magnificent landmarks such as the Belfry, Gravensteen Castle, and St. Bavo’s Cathedral. Savor mouthwatering Belgian waffles and indulge in some of the best beers in the world. Ghent is an enchanting place where you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time while still enjoying the vibrant, modern energy of its friendly locals.
Things to Consider Before Arriving in Ghent
Affordable compared to other European cities
Bike-friendly environment
Less popular than Bruges, meaning fewer tourists
Art and history enthusiasts, foodies, and beer lovers will adore this city
What to Bring with You
1. Comfortable walking shoes: You’ll be exploring those cobblestone streets a lot!
2. Rain gear: Umbrella, raincoat, or waterproof boots, as Belgium has notoriously unpredictable weather.
3. A plug converter: Belgium uses European socket type E, so make sure you have the right adapter for your devices.
4. An appetite: You won’t want to miss out on the delicious food and drink Ghent has to offer!
Best Time of the Year to Visit
Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October) are the most delightful times to visit Ghent. You’ll avoid the summer tourist crowds and enjoy more moderate temperatures, perfect for exploring the city’s picturesque streets.
How to Get into the City
1. By train: Ghent has excellent rail connections, making it easy to reach from nearby cities like Brussels, Antwerp, and Bruges. Arrive at the Ghent St. Pieters or Ghent Dampoort stations and then take a tram or walk to the city center.
2. By car: Vehicle rental is quite popular in Belgium, and Ghent is just a short drive from Brussels. Keep in mind that parking in the city center can be a bit challenging at times.
3. By bus: Eurolines, Flixbus, and De Lijn all offer bus services to Ghent, providing a budget-friendly option for reaching the city from various European destinations.
7 day city guide trip to Ghent, Belgium
Day 1: Arrival and City Center Exploration
Kick off your Ghent adventure by visiting the medieval castle of Gravensteen and admiring the iconic Belfry tower in the city center. Take a stroll through the picturesque streets and discover the city’s hidden gems like the street art in Werregarenstraat and the colorful houses at the Graslei riverbank. For dinner, indulge in a typical Flemish meal at De Klok restaurant.
Day 2: Ghent University and STAM Museum
Explore the stunning buildings of Ghent University and its beautiful Botanical Garden, followed by a visit to the STAM Museum and learning about the city’s rich history. Head to Vrijdagmarkt square for a beer at the iconic Dulle Griet pub, where they serve beer in a glass boot!
Day 3: Day trip to Bruges
Take a day trip to the charming city of Bruges, just a 30-minute train ride from Ghent. Visit the iconic Belfry of Bruges and the historic Markt square, taste some of the best Belgium chocolates at The Chocolate Line, and take a boat ride through the picturesque canals.
Day 4: Patershol Quarter and The Gruut Brewery
Explore the Patershol Quarter, the oldest and most authentic neighborhood in Ghent, known for its vibrant nightlife and eclectic food scene. For dinner, head to the Gruut Brewery and taste their unique beers made from herbs.
Day 5: Art and Culture in Ghent
Discover the rich culture and art scene of Ghent by visiting the world-famous Van Eyck brothers’ masterpiece, “The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb”, at St. Bavo’s Cathedral, followed by a stroll through the Museum of Fine Arts and the contemporary art museum, SMAK.
Day 6: Day trip to Antwerp
Take a day trip to the trendy city of Antwerp, just a 45-minute train ride from Ghent. Visit the impressive Cathedral of Our Lady and the stunning Antwerp Central Station. Shop at the fashion district and enjoy a delicious seafood dinner at the famous Het Pomphuis restaurant.
Day 7: Oude Beestenmarkt and City Festival
Wrap up your Ghent adventure by visiting the lively Oude Beestenmarkt square and enjoying some local beers and small tapas-style dishes. If you’re lucky, you might catch a fun city festival like the Ghent Festivities or the Light Festival.
How to continue your travel after you have spent 7 days in Ghent
Located just a short distance from Ghent, two cities worth exploring are:
1. Brussels
The capital city of Belgium is a must-visit destination, just a 30-minute train ride from Ghent. Admire the stunning architecture of the Grand Place, indulge in some mouth-watering waffles and chocolate at Manneken Pis, and learn about the history of Europe at the EU Parliamentarium.
2. Rotterdam
Another interesting city worth exploring is Rotterdam, just a two-hour train ride from Ghent. Visit the iconic Cube Houses and the awe-inspiring Erasmus Bridge. Wander through the trendy Witte de Withstraat street and enjoy a beer at the famous Brouwerij de Molen.
