The best tips for Belgium |  Plan your Belgium trip

Ghent: Canal Tours, Art, and Belgian Chocolate Delights

, Ghent - centre, CC BY-SA 3.0
small photo of the author of the site
Hello and welcome to my website. My name is Thorsten. I'm a software engineer living in Germany and I love to travel. So I created a site for anyone starting to plan a trip.
What this site is about

✔ Are you planning a self-organized trip to Ghent? Then you've come to the right place. Here you will find information to help you plan your perfect stay in Ghent.

✔ The most important start information for a trip to Belgium, can be found on the overview page.

✔ And when it comes to the actual planning, you will find the perfect planner for your trip to Belgium here.
Attraction
Park / Garden

Culture and history, explore and discover

Ghent is a city where history and modernity coexist harmoniously, offering a rich tapestry of cultural experiences. Visitors can expect to find a vibrant blend of medieval architecture, contemporary art, and lively cultural events. The city is known for its picturesque canals, cobblestone streets, and a dynamic atmosphere that reflects both its historical significance and its role as a modern cultural hub. Ghent's cultural scene is diverse, with a strong emphasis on the arts, music, and gastronomy, making it an engaging destination for tourists interested in exploring both its past and present.

All sights sorted by distance from center
1. The Cathedral of Saint Bavo, Ghent: A stunning example of Gothic architecture, the cathedral is home to the famous altarpiece, 'The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb' by the Van Eyck brothers. Distance in km: 0.44
2. Belfry of Ghent: An iconic medieval tower offering panoramic views of the city and housing a unique carillon of 54 bells. Distance in km: 0.56
3. The Belfry of Ghent, UNESCO World Heritage: An iconic medieval tower that provides panoramic views of Ghent and its surroundings. It's part of the UNESCO World Heritage belfries of Belgium and France. Distance in km: 0.57
4. Ghent's Old Town: Explore the picturesque medieval streets, charming squares, and historic buildings of the city's old town. Distance in km: 0.61
5. Graslei and Korenlei: Quayside streets lined with historic buildings, picturesque canals, and lively cafes, offering a charming waterfront experience. Distance in km: 0.86
6. Ghent's Gravensteen: ⭐ ⭐ A medieval castle in the city of Ghent, Gravensteen offers a glimpse into the past with its museum and stunning views of the city. Distance in km: 1.05
7. Citadelpark: A beautiful park featuring lush greenery, tranquil ponds, and a diverse collection of sculptures and monuments. Distance in km: 1.68
8. Bourgoyen-Ossemeersen Nature Reserve: A peaceful nature reserve with wetlands, meadows, and diverse bird species, perfect for nature lovers and birdwatching. Distance in km: 4.16
9. Bruges Canal Tour: ⭐ ⭐ Offers a unique perspective of Bruges, often referred to as the Venice of the North. The canals guide you through the city's medieval heart. Distance in km: 39.35
10. The Basilica of the Holy Blood, Bruges: A Roman Catholic basilica, famous for housing a relic of the Holy Blood allegedly collected by Joseph of Arimathea and brought to Bruges during the Crusades. Distance in km: 39.36
11. The Belfry of Bruges, UNESCO World Heritage: ⭐ ⭐ A medieval bell tower in the centre of Bruges, offering panoramic views of the city. It's one of the city's most prominent symbols. Distance in km: 39.46
12. The Fort of Breendonk: A military fortification used as a concentration camp during World War II. Today, it serves as a national memorial and museum. Distance in km: 42.76
13. The Zwin Nature Park: A unique coastal wetland reserve, home to a rich variety of bird species and a beautiful area for walking and cycling. Distance in km: 43.47
14. Mini-Europe, Brussels: ⭐ An outdoor miniature park located at the foot of the Atomium, Mini-Europe features reproductions of monuments in the European Union on a scale of 1:25. Distance in km: 46.06
15. Atomium, Brussels: ⭐ ⭐ An iconic building and museum shaped like a unit cell of an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times. It provides panoramic views of Brussels. Distance in km: 46.19
16. Royal Greenhouses of Laeken: ⭐ ⭐ A vast complex of monumental heated greenhouses in the park of the Royal Castle of Laeken, showcasing a wide variety of plants and flowers. Distance in km: 47.5
17. The Japanese Tower and Chinese Pavilion, Brussels: Part of the Royal Greenhouses, these exotic buildings reflect King Leopold II's fascination with the Far East, showcasing collections of Chinese and Japanese art. Distance in km: 47.58
18. Manneken Pis, Brussels: ⭐ A famous small bronze sculpture depicting a naked little boy urinating into a fountain's basin. It is a symbol of the city's irreverent spirit. Distance in km: 49.08
19. Grand Place, Brussels, UNESCO World Heritage: ⭐ ⭐ Known for its remarkable architecture, including the Town Hall and the King's House. The Grand Place is a UNESCO World Heritage site and hosts numerous events and floral displays. Distance in km: 49.16
20. Horta Museum, Brussels, UNESCO World Heritage: ⭐ ⭐ Dedicated to the work of the architect Victor Horta, this museum is housed in his former home and studio, showcasing Art Nouveau design. Distance in km: 49.37
21. The Halle Gate, Brussels: A medieval fortified city gate of Brussels. It is the last remaining gate of the second walls of Brussels, serving now as a museum. Distance in km: 49.41
22. The Comics Art Museum, Brussels: Dedicated to Belgian comics, it showcases the history of comic strips and its famous characters like Tintin and The Smurfs. Distance in km: 49.41
23. The St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral, Brussels: A Roman Catholic church in Gothic style, serving as the co-cathedral of the Archdiocese of Mechelen-Brussels. Distance in km: 49.57
24. The Royal Museum of Fine Arts, Antwerp: Home to a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, and drawings from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. Distance in km: 49.64
25. The Royal Conservatory of Brussels: A prestigious music and drama school offering performances in an elegant 19th-century building. Distance in km: 49.75
26. The Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium: Located in Brussels, this group of art museums includes the Oldmasters Museum, Modern Museum, Magritte Museum, Wiertz Museum, and Meunier Museum. Distance in km: 49.77

Parks, Gardens & Green Areas in the city, relax and enjoy

Ghent offers a serene blend of historical charm and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for relaxation. Visitors can expect a city that balances its rich cultural heritage with green spaces and tranquil spots. The city is well-known for its picturesque canals, historic architecture, and a welcoming atmosphere that invites leisurely exploration. Whether strolling through cobblestone streets or lounging in a peaceful garden, Ghent provides a calming escape from the hustle and bustle.

1. Citadel Park: A large and historic park in Ghent, perfect for leisurely walks.

Citadel Park is one of Ghent's most prominent green spaces, offering a blend of history and nature. Visitors can enjoy scenic walks amidst ancient trees, explore the park's monuments and statues, or relax by the pond. The park is also home to the Museum of Fine Arts and the City Museum of Contemporary Art, making it a cultural hub as well.

Type: park | Fee: free
2. Bourgoyen-Ossemeersen Nature Reserve: A serene nature reserve offering a glimpse of local wildlife and wetlands.

Bourgoyen-Ossemeersen is a vast nature reserve located just outside the city center. It is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, with numerous trails that weave through its wetlands and meadows. The reserve is home to a variety of bird species, and visitors can enjoy peaceful walks while observing the rich biodiversity.

Type: green_area | Fee: free
3. Koning Albertpark: A small urban park ideal for a quick escape from the city bustle.

Koning Albertpark is a quaint urban park located near the train station. It provides a peaceful retreat with its well-maintained lawns, flower beds, and shaded benches. It's a perfect spot for a short break or a picnic, offering a tranquil environment amidst the city's hustle and bustle.

Type: park | Fee: free
4. Botanical Garden of Ghent University: A beautiful botanical garden showcasing a diverse collection of plants.

The Botanical Garden of Ghent University is a must-visit for plant lovers and those interested in botany. It features a wide variety of plant species from around the world, organized in thematic sections. The garden also includes greenhouses that house exotic plants, providing a year-round attraction. It's an educational and relaxing environment, perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Type: garden | Fee: free
5. Keizerpark: A modern urban park with recreational facilities and scenic views.

Keizerpark is a modern urban park located along the River Scheldt. It offers a variety of recreational facilities, including playgrounds, sports fields, and walking paths. The park's design incorporates natural elements with urban aesthetics, providing scenic views and a relaxing atmosphere. It's a popular spot for families and those looking to enjoy outdoor activities.

Type: park | Fee: free

Tourist Information Offices

Here you can find the main tourist information offices where you can get maps, brochures, and assistance with planning your visit.

1. Tourist Information Center - Visit Gent

Tourist information center

Address: Sint-Veerleplein 5, 9000 Gent, Belgium
2. Visitor's Center

Tourist information center

Address: Sint-Veerleplein 5, 9000 Gent, Belgium

What's the best way to get around as a tourist in Ghent?

Ghent offers a variety of mobility options, making it easy to navigate the city. The compact city center is pedestrian-friendly, encouraging walking as a primary mode of transport. Public transportation, including buses and trams, efficiently connects different parts of the city and surrounding areas. Cycling is also popular, with dedicated lanes and bike-friendly infrastructure. Ride-sharing services provide additional flexibility for getting around.

The historic center of Ghent is largely car-free, promoting walking and exploration on foot. Public transportation is operated by De Lijn, offering an extensive network of buses and trams that cover the city and its suburbs. For cycling enthusiasts, bike rentals are widely available, with services like Donkey Republic providing convenient access to bicycles. Ghent's cycling infrastructure includes numerous bike lanes and parking facilities. Ride-sharing services such as Uber are available, offering an alternative to traditional taxis. Practical tips include purchasing a CityCard for unlimited access to public transport and attractions, and utilizing the city's Park and Ride facilities to avoid driving into the center.