Ghent, a captivating city in Belgium, exudes an enchanting beauty that effortlessly blends the old with the new. Its charming cobblestone streets, picturesque canals, and stunning medieval architecture create a unique and timeless atmosphere.
One of Ghent's greatest attractions is its historic city center. The iconic Gravensteen Castle, a medieval fortress, stands proudly amidst the cityscape, showcasing its rich heritage. As you stroll through the narrow streets, you'll encounter awe-inspiring sights such as the Ghent Belfry, a medieval tower offering panoramic views of the city, and the St. Bavo's Cathedral, a magnificent Gothic masterpiece housing priceless works of art, including the renowned Ghent Altarpiece.
Find out how to organize your schedule with our collection of the best places to visit and activities to do in Ghent.
1. Saint Michael's Church and Sint-Michielsbrug
Saint Michael's Church and Sint-Michielsbrug (St. Michael's Bridge) in Ghent are two remarkable landmarks that contribute to the city's architectural splendor and cultural heritage.
The spectacular Gothic church known as Saint Michael's Church, also called Sint-Michielskerk, was built in the fifteenth century. Its towering spire and intricate façade are a testament to the architectural prowess of the time. The church's interior is equally awe-inspiring, featuring beautiful stained glass windows, ornate woodwork, and intricate stone carvings. The peaceful ambiance inside invites visitors to reflect and admire the historical and artistic significance of this sacred space.
Visiting Saint Michael's Church and Sint-Michielsbrug allows one to immerse themselves in the rich history and architectural marvels of Ghent while enjoying the peaceful serenity and captivating views they offer. It's a special place in Belgium where you can see both old and new things. People go there to enjoy the pretty sights and learn about the city's history and culture.
2. Discover the Korenlei Canal Area
Discovering the Korenlei Canal Area in Ghent is a delightful experience that reveals the city's enchanting beauty and captivating atmosphere.
The Korenlei Canal Area is located along the picturesque Leie River and is characterized by its rows of charming, historic buildings that line the water's edge. These elegant facades, reflecting in the tranquil waters, create a postcard-perfect scene that captures the essence of Ghent's architectural charm.
Exploring this area also provides a glimpse into Ghent's maritime heritage. The canal used to be a very busy place where people traded and did business. Even though things have changed, you can still see evidence of how successful the city used to be. The sight of boats gliding along the waterway is a reminder of Ghent's connection to its waterborne history.
The beauty of the Korenlei Canal Area lies not only in its visual appeal but also in the vibrant energy it exudes. The mix of old buildings, fun restaurants by the water, and the calm canal make this place feel special. It's a great place for people who live here and for people who are visiting.
3. Town Hall (Stadhuis)
The Town Hall, or Stadhuis, in Ghent, is a magnificent architectural masterpiece that epitomizes the city's grandeur and historical significance. Its beauty lies not only in its stunning façade but also in the rich stories and cultural heritage it holds within its walls.
Located on the bustling Botermarkt square, the Town Hall is a symbol of Ghent's prosperity and civic pride. The building's construction began in the 16th century and took several decades to complete, resulting in a blend of architectural styles, including Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque elements.
The Town Hall also houses a collection of valuable art pieces, including paintings and sculptures, showcasing Ghent's rich artistic heritage. These artistic treasures add to the beauty and cultural significance of the building, making it a destination for art enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Visiting the Town Hall allows you to step back in time and immerse yourself in the beauty and grandeur of Ghent's history. It's a place where art, architecture, and civic life converge, inviting you to appreciate the city's heritage and marvel at the remarkable achievements of the past.
4. Museum of Fine Art (Museum voor Schone Kunsten)
The Museum of Fine Art, or Museum voor Schone Kunsten, in Ghent, is a true treasure trove for art enthusiasts and a testament to the city's rich cultural heritage. Its beauty lies not only in the magnificent artworks it houses but also in the architectural splendor of the building itself.
The beauty of the museum lies not only in the quality and significance of its artworks but also in the way they are displayed. The carefully curated exhibitions and the thoughtful arrangement of the pieces create a harmonious and immersive experience for visitors. The lighting, colors, and spatial design all contribute to enhancing the visual impact of the artwork and creating a captivating atmosphere.
The Museum of Fine Art in Ghent is not only a place to admire and appreciate art but also a gateway to the city's cultural heritage. This place shows off the amazing artwork made by people from this area. It also celebrates the interesting things that happened in the past here. And it wants people to feel and think deeply when they look at the art.
5. Ghent City Museum (STAM)
The Ghent City Museum, also known as STAM (Stadsmuseum Gent), is a captivating destination that invites visitors to explore the rich history and cultural heritage of Ghent. The museum is not only interesting, but it also shows the city's story in a cool and interactive way.
One of the highlights of the museum is its use of multimedia and interactive technologies. These immersive experiences allow visitors to engage with the exhibits in a dynamic and hands-on manner. The museum brings history to life and offers a deeper understanding of Ghent's heritage.
The Ghent City Museum, STAM, offers a captivating and visually appealing experience that celebrates Ghent's history, culture, and identity. This place has really cool old buildings, fun stuff to do, and things that you can touch and play with. It makes you feel like you're really there in the past and helps you understand how important the city is.
6. Visit the Old Market Area
Visiting the Old Market Area in Ghent is like stepping into a living tapestry of history and charm. This magical part of the city has really old buildings, colorful squares, and a busy market. It's a really cool place for people to visit and have fun.
The square comes alive with activity on market days, where locals and visitors flock to indulge in a feast for the senses. The vibrant market stalls offer a delightful array of fresh produce, regional specialties, and artisanal crafts. The atmosphere in Ghent is inviting, with the smell of fresh bread and local cheeses filling the air.
Visiting the Old Market Area allows you to immerse yourself in the historical and cultural fabric of Ghent. It's a place where the past and present coexist, offering a glimpse into the city's rich heritage and a celebration of its timeless beauty.
7. The Architecture of Vismarkt and Kraanlei
The architecture of Vismarkt and Kraanlei in Ghent is a true testament to the city's historical charm and architectural prowess. These pretty places by the Leie River have buildings that look really old and fancy. They mix together styles from long ago, making them really special. People who visit there feel really happy and excited.
The combination of Vismarkt and Kraanlei creates a scenic panorama that is nothing short of captivating. The buildings, with their rich history and architectural diversity, stand as a testament to the city's trading heritage and its importance as a medieval port. The peaceful canals are a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of your surroundings. They are filled with charming houses and bridges that make for a charming and relaxing walk.
Exploring the architecture of Vismarkt and Kraanlei allows you to immerse yourself in the unique character of Ghent. This place has a mix of old and fancy styles, lots of bright colors, and is by the water. It feels really special and like it could be from a long time ago. The market is an interesting area to visit. It offers a glimpse into the architectural splendor and cultural heritage of Ghent.
8. Walk through the Ruins of Sint-Baafsabdij
Walking through the ruins of Sint-Baafsabdij in Ghent is a journey back in time that reveals the captivating beauty of the abbey's remnants. In a calm and peaceful park, there are some old, broken buildings that make you feel calm. They can show you what the city was like a long time ago.
A long time ago, some people built a special place called Saint Bavo's Abbey. It was very important in Ghent because it helped teach people about religion and culture. Although the abbey fell into disrepair over the centuries, the remaining ruins offer a hauntingly beautiful testament to its former glory.
Visiting the ruins is an opportunity to reflect, to admire the resilience of these remnants, and to embrace the beauty of the passage of time. The ruins of Sint-Baafsabdij are a reminder that even in decay, there is a certain kind of beauty.