Top 15 Must-See Attractions in Ghent, Belgium

Locals and travelers alike appreciate Ghent. The city offers remarkable art, exceptional cuisine, and ranks among Belgium’s finest hidden gems. Ghent is relatively small compared to other European cities and, despite being an ideal getaway, it is not overwhelmed by tourists and sightseers.

Ghent exemplifies a harmonious fusion of industrial and medieval architecture, catering to diverse tastes for European destinations. Additionally, the nightlife and culinary scene thrive, with various restaurants offering quality dining options for every budget. Beer holds significant prominence in Belgium, and Ghent is renowned for its iconic Gruut beer.

Here are the 15 best activities in Ghent!

1. Be Awestruck By Gravensteen

Possibly the most striking landmark in Ghent, Gravensteen is a castle from the 12th Century constructed for the Count of Flanders. The structure has been magnificent restored to its former glory after a brief period of functioning as a cotton mill.

The interior may be somewhat sparse in furnishings; however, it compensates for this with intriguing exhibits including a guillotine and suits of armor. To gain insight into the castle’s historical atmosphere, visitors can enjoy a light-hearted costume drama presented in several of the castle’s rooms and fortifications.

For an excellent photo opportunity of the castle from a distance, consider visiting St Widostraat.

2. Adore the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb

The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb is regarded as one of the earliest oil paintings globally, originating in the early 15th Century. Long queues to view the artwork are commonplace; akin to the Mona Lisa, the narrative surrounding the painting is far more captivating than the artwork itself.

The painting’s storied past includes an Austrian Emperor “dressing” the nude Adam and Eve, along with a period wherein the work was stolen and concealed within a salt mine.

The painting remains accessible year-round for viewings and has almost fully regained its original splendor, though one stolen panel is still absent to this day.

3. See Fine Art at the MSK (Museum of Fine Arts)

The MSK art gallery is designed to evoke the grandeur of an Ancient Greek temple. However, the vast collection of works from Belgian and Low Countries artists will promptly remind visitors that they are indeed in Belgium.

The exhibited works span a timeline from the 14th century through the 20th century, with English-language descriptions available for each piece.

The permanent collections are regularly complemented by a series of distinguished temporary exhibits.

4. Eat out in Patershol

A hidden gem featuring numerous fine dining establishments, Patershol was historically home to the leather trade in Ghent.

The charming cobblestone streets and traditional houses remain mostly unchanged from that era, providing an authentic glimpse into Ghent’s history.

This exploration is likely to kindle an appetite; fortunately, Patershol boasts several excellent dining options, including t’ Klaverblad, which offers exquisite French cuisine and is frequently cited as the best restaurant in Ghent.

5. Marvel at the Sint-Pietersabdij Abbey

One of the largest abbeys in Belgium, the Sint-Pietersabdij served as the nucleus of Ghent for centuries, with the city gradually expanding from this pivotal location.

The picturesque orchards and gardens are open for public exploration and serve as an enchanting setting for a summer day. The abbey itself features a stunning mural in what was historically the monk’s dining hall, alongside an advanced video tour lasting approximately ninety minutes.

For those pressed for time, it is easy to select a few highlights from the tour before proceeding.

6. See the St Baafskathedraal

This cathedral houses the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb, mentioned previously, and merits visitation for its own distinctions. The architecture is an extraordinary combination of stone and brick, accentuated by beautiful stained glass windows.

The murals within the crypts exhibit stunning artistry, as does the original Rubens artwork displayed.

For those who prefer to view the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb without the long wait, a reproduction of the work is available for viewing in chapel 30.

7. Watch Some Home Movies at Huis van Alijn

This building was previously a children’s hospice and has since been meticulously restored into a wonderful museum illustrating life in the city from the late 18th century to the early 20th century.

The museum allows visitors to explore vintage shops with authentic period interiors, while old wedding photographs and family films elicit surprisingly emotional reactions.

Many exhibits may not be in English; nonetheless, they are straightforward and largely self-explanatory.

8. See a Dragon at the Belfort

While Ghent is not derived from a Game of Thrones narrative, it is nonetheless home to its own dragon. The Belfry, dating back to the 14th century, features a dragon positioned atop the tower as a weathervane.

For those who undertake the ascent to the summit, two additional dragons can be encountered en route. There is also an exhibit on bell-making, but the primary allure for most visitors to the Belfort is the panoramic view from the tower’s apex. Be sure to take in the sight of Ghent’s cloth hall during your visit.

The hall’s construction commenced in the mid-15th century but was ultimately completed in 1903.

9. Grab a coffee from Mokabon

Disregard the large, new Starbucks and step into Mokabon, the inviting coffee shop that embodies the classic essence of a true café.

This establishment is among the city’s prime locales to unwind, complete with delightful snacks and superb coffee. The offerings include traditional Belgian coffee, often served with whipped cream atop espresso.

Avoid the chains, and indulge in genuine Belgian coffee.

10. Learn at the Museum of Industry

The Museum of Industry is an excellent destination for those interested in the industrial history of Ghent. Set within a former mill-building, this comprehensive museum spans five floors.

Through an exploration of 250 years of industrial evolution, visitors can view and learn about diverse machinery, which is even operational on select days. While the noise can be intense, earplugs are provided for visitor comfort!

Additionally, there are fantastic views of the city available from the top floor of the building.

11. Learn some more at STAM

For those eager to expand their knowledge further, a visit to STAM is essential. This museum traces Ghent’s history back 70,000 years.

Housed in a historic building that formerly served as a nunnery, STAM features interactive displays that illustrate the city’s evolution through various historical periods.

Furthermore, the museum offers a glimpse into the anticipated future of the city, making it an engaging and informative stop.

12. Shop at the Vrijdagmarkt

This square, named for the weekly market that continues to take place each Friday, was once the site of public executions and significant city gatherings.

The cafes surrounding the square provide exceptional vantage points for appreciating the statue of Ghent’s notable leader, Artevelde, who was prominently anti-French.

In the vicinity, visitors can find a massive cannon, notable for its substantial 250kg projectiles, which was among the largest siege cannons during the Middle Ages.

13. Stadhuis

Even amidst Ghent’s many exquisite buildings, the Stadhuis, or city hall, distinctly stands out. The construction of this architectural marvel spanned nearly a century, culminating in its completion in 1600.

The flamboyant Gothic architecture has earned it the title of the building with various façades. The interior rooms exhibit a diverse array of styles, each uniquely decorated and remarkably preserved.

While the hall is a sought-after venue for weddings, tourist access is limited; hour-long tours commence at the tourist office and are priced at €5 per individual.

14. Try some Ghent Cuisine

The culinary landscape in Ghent, much like in Belgium’s other major cities, is diverse and delectable. Food enthusiasts will undoubtedly feel at home here.

Traditional Belgian specialties worth sampling include Gruut Beer, originating from a local brewery, which serves as an excellent introduction to Belgian brews, Stoverij, a rich Belgian beef stew, and Waterzooi, a fish or chicken stew with roots dating back to the Middle Ages.

For dessert enthusiasts, Belgium excels in chocolate production, with Ghent often regarded as the crème de la crème. Be sure to indulge in pralines before your departure.

15. Hop onto a water tram

To experience the city from a unique perspective, consider utilizing Ghent’s hop-on-hop-off water tram. There are six stops for embarking and disembarking, including the Castle of the Counts and St. Peter’s Abbey.

Beyond facilitating transportation, the tram provides an exceptional opportunity to witness several of the city’s prominent attractions en route.

As an added benefit, if you acquire the Ghent City Card, water tram travel is included without any additional cost.