Things to do in Ghent

Activities, attractions and tours

A canal with boats, historic buildings, and a bridge.
A historic tower with a spire, a modern building with a wooden facade, and a cobblestone square with outdoor seating.
A canal with a white boat, historic buildings, and outdoor seating areas.
A modern architectural structure with illuminated wooden panels and a view of historic buildings in the background.
A canal with historic buildings, a bridge, and a boat.

Things to do

Ghent: 50-Minute Medieval Center Guided Boat Trip

Ghent: 50-Minute Medieval Center Guided Boat Trip

€11
per adult
88% of travellers recommend
Ghent: 50-Minute Medieval Center Guided Boat Trip
Ghent Walking Tour with Audioguide on Your Smartphone

Ghent Walking Tour with Audioguide on Your Smartphone

€8
per adult
Ghent Walking Tour with Audioguide on Your Smartphone
Guided Boat Trip in Ghent

Guided Boat Trip in Ghent

€11
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Guided Boat Trip in Ghent
Evening Tour of the Dark Side of Gent

Evening Tour of the Dark Side of Gent

€3
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Evening Tour of the Dark Side of Gent
Ghent: Chocolate Truffle Making Class

Ghent: Belgian Chocolate Truffles & Hot Cocoa Workshop

€46
per adult
Ghent: Belgian Chocolate Truffles & Hot Cocoa Workshop
Ghent City Walk with Audio Guide in 7 Languages on your Phone

Ghent City Walk with Audio Guide in 7 Languages on your Phone

€8
per adult
Ghent City Walk with Audio Guide in 7 Languages on your Phone
Ghent: Belgian Praline and Mendiants Chocolate Workshop

Ghent: Belgian Praline and Mendiants Chocolate Workshop

€59
per adult
Ghent: Belgian Praline and Mendiants Chocolate Workshop
Belgian Hidden Architectural Gem

Belgian Hidden Architectural Gem

€15
per adult
Belgian Hidden Architectural Gem
GPS Audioguide application: From the Château des Comtes to the Lys quays

Ghent Walking tour 1h10 and 19 audio reviews

€6
per traveller
Ghent Walking tour 1h10 and 19 audio reviews
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Top places to visit

1. Gravensteen Castle

Gravensteen, also known as the “Castle of the Count,” is one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions. The castle is a characteristic medieval fortress complete with twisting staircases, a dungeon surrounded by high walls and a protective moat. In addition to being an interesting example of centuries-old architecture, the restored castle houses several museum collections. Enjoy gorgeous views over the city.
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A historic castle with a moat, a bridge, and a canal reflecting the structure.

2. Ghent Town Hall

Ghent Town Hall, known locally as Stadhuis, is an interesting mishmash of architectural styles. A witness to more than 400 years of Ghent’s history, the building is a compelling collage of art and architecture, spanning the 15th to the 20th centuries. See the town hall, which continues to serve as an important civic center today, now housing the offices of city officials.
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A historic building with ornate architecture, a clock tower, and flags.

3. St. Nicholas' Church

Rising prominently over Ghent’s historic city center, St. Nicholas’ Church is one of the famous “Three Towers of Ghent.” With its grand scale and elaborate design, St. Nicholas' Church looks more like a cathedral than a church. Observe its remarkable Scheldt Gothic architecture and careful restoration work that disguises its somewhat turbulent history.
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A historic cathedral with tall spires, a bustling street with cafes, and a tram in the background.

4. Belfry of Ghent

The Belfry of Ghent is one of three medieval towers that characterize the old city center. Together with Saint-Bavo’s Cathedral and St. Nicholas' Church, the belfry is among the most recognizable city landmarks. Explore its lavishly decorated interior and climb to the top, where you’ll see some of the most spectacular views in the city.
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A historic tower with a spire, a modern building with a wooden facade, and a cobblestone square with outdoor seating.

5. Saint Bavo Cathedral

Saint-Bavo’s Cathedral is among the most well-known landmarks in Ghent. In this towering cathedral see a stunning collection of centuries-old sculptures, religious artifacts and paintings, such as the famous Ghent Altarpiece, a polyptych panel painting with a rather unlucky history.
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A historic square with a statue of a religious scene, surrounded by old buildings and a tall church tower.

What to do in Ghent

Stay near popular Ghent attractions

A historic castle with a moat, a bridge, and a canal reflecting the structure.

Gravensteen Castle

9.0/10 (1,048 reviews)
This imposing 12th-century fortress offers a fascinating glimpse into medieval Flanders with its ramparts and torture chamber. Climb to the top for panoramic views of Ghent's historic centre.
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Where to stay in Ghent

Find the best Ghent areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Ghent
Learn more about Ghent
A historic castle with a moat, a bridge, and a canal reflecting the structure.

Patershol

Patershol is noteworthy for its restaurants, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Kraanlei and Gravensteen Castle.

A historic cityscape with a prominent clock tower and a river reflecting the buildings.

Graslei and Korenlei

If you're spending some time in Graslei and Korenlei, Korenmarkt Square and St. Michael's Bridge are top sights worth seeing.

A historic stone tower with arched windows and a flag.

Kunstenkwartier

Kunstenkwartier is noteworthy for its bars, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Book Tower and St. Peter's Square.

A historic building with ornate architecture, a clock tower, and flags.

Ghent City Centre

Historical sites, cafes and museums are some highlights of Ghent City Centre. Make a stop by Belfry of Ghent or St. Nicholas' Church while you're exploring.

A historic castle surrounded by a dense urban area with traditional European architecture.

Elisabethbegijnhof

While there might not be top attractions in Elisabethbegijnhof, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Prinsenhof and Old Fish Market.

An aerial view of a river winding through a rural landscape with fields and houses.

Sint-Martens-Latem

A calm lake with a tower and a small building on the shore.

Melle

Frequently asked questions

Is Ghent worth visiting?
Whether you want to enjoy the cultural attractions and local charm or try unique foods and venture into nature, there are many things to do in Ghent.
How do I spend a day in Ghent?
Kick-start your day with a visit to Blaarmeersen Recreation Area and Ooidonk Castle. Then, check out other parts of Ghent for a bite to eat and some souvenir shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Ghent?
The top tourist attraction in Ghent is Capitole Theatre, so make sure to add it to your itinerary.
Is three days enough to stay in Ghent?
Three days will be enough time to tick off many city highlights, like Capitole Theatre, Blaarmeersen Recreation Area and Harry Malter Family Park. The average stay in Ghent is two days. If you feel the urge to extend your adventure, Brussels isn't far away.
Is Ghent a walkable city?
With exciting neighbourhoods and major sights within walking distance of the city centre, Ghent is a good place to tour on foot. Wander between Capitole Theatre and Blaarmeersen Recreation Area. Then take a stroll around Ghent City Centre, located 0.16 kilometres from downtown, and Stationsbuurt Noord, which is about 2 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Ghent with kids?
Whether you're holidaying with young explorers or playful teenagers, an itinerary filled with cool activities sets the tone for a great escape. Take a look at our ideas for what to do in Ghent with kids.

What to do in Ghent for adults?
There are plenty of things to do in Ghent, with entertainment for adults of all ages. End the day with a visit to Glass Alley or Ghent Museum of Industrial Archeology and Textiles.
Are there free things to do in Ghent?
In Ghent, Blaarmeersen Recreation Area is an unmissable spot for anyone looking to experience the city without opening their wallet. Also, stroll around the other neighbourhoods and green spaces, and ask a local tour guide for recommendations. It's a top way to explore the best free things to do in Ghent.

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