Things to do in Ghent

Activities, attractions and tours

Ghent showing a city and boating
Ghent showing a city and boating
Belfry of Ghent which includes night scenes, a city and modern architecture
Ghent showing a city and heritage architecture
Ghent featuring a city, modern architecture and night scenes
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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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Gravensteen which includes heritage architecture, a river or creek and château or palace

2. 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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Saint Bavo Cathedral showing a statue or sculpture and a city

3. 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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Ghent Town Hall featuring a sunset, street scenes and an administrative building

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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Belfry of Ghent which includes night scenes, a city and modern architecture

5. 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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St. Nicholas\' Church featuring heritage architecture, street scenes and a city

What to do in Ghent

Popular places to visit

Gravensteen which includes heritage architecture, a river or creek and château or palace

Gravensteen Castle

One of the only remaining medieval castles in Flanders, this historic fortress provides a fascinating insight into the weaponry, culture, and drama of Ghent’s past.

Gravensteen Castle
Saint Bavo Cathedral which includes religious aspects, heritage architecture and a church or cathedral

Saint Bavo Cathedral

One of the iconic Three Towers of Ghent, this historic cathedral is known for its outstanding collection of art.

Saint Bavo Cathedral
Ghent Town Hall which includes interior views, an administrative building and heritage architecture

Ghent Town Hall

See one of the city’s most unusual landmarks, a striking building constructed over the course of almost four centuries.

Ghent Town Hall
Ghent, Belgium, at sunset in spring with a rainbow. Historic city where you can see both Korenlei and Graslei as the river Lys

Ghent University

Enjoy the student vibe at Ghent University during your stay in Ghent. While in this culturally rich area, find time to visit its shops.

Ghent University
Belfry of Ghent which includes night scenes, a city and modern architecture

Belfry of Ghent

Visit one of Ghent’s most famous attractions, an imposing tower that defines the city’s skyline and symbolizes its independence.

Belfry of Ghent
St. Nicholas\' Church showing heritage architecture, religious aspects and a church or cathedral

St. Nicholas' Church

A beautiful example of Scheldt Gothic architecture, this striking blue-gray church is among the oldest landmarks in the city.

St. Nicholas' Church
Citadel Park showing a park, a statue or sculpture and heritage architecture

Citadel Park

This popular public park is among the most important green spaces in the city, home to pleasant paths and several unique museums.

Citadel Park
Ganda, as Ghent was originally called, arose at the confluence of the Leie (Lys) and the Schelde (Scheldt). On that site there is now a marina for passing boat traffic: “Portus Ganda”. The Lower Scheldt has today been restored to its former glory. Bridges and parks, cosy pavement cafés and a wonderfully restored art deco swimming pool all make up one of Ghent’s beautiful (new) little corners.

Portus Ganda

Explore the waterfront in Ghent with a trip to Portus Ganda. While in this culturally rich area, find time to visit its shops.

Portus Ganda

Flanders Expo

Learn about the events happening in Flanders Expo during your trip to Sint Denijs-Westrem. Experience the museums and theatre scene in this culturally rich area.

Flanders Expo

Areas of Ghent

Ghent Town Hall featuring a sunset, street scenes and an administrative building

Ghent City Centre

4.5/5(70 area reviews)

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

Ghent City Centre
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Moscou

Moscou might not have many top sights, but Ghelamco Arena and Small Beguinage Ghent are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Moscou
Château des comtes de Gand

Kunstenkwartier

5/5(2 area reviews)

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

Kunstenkwartier
Citadel Park which includes a garden, a waterfall and a lake or waterhole

Stationsbuurt Noord

4.5/5(16 area reviews)

Unique features of Stationsbuurt Noord include the historical sites and restaurants. Make a stop by Ghent University Botanical Garden or Leopold Barracks while you're exploring the area.

Stationsbuurt Noord
Gravensteen which includes heritage architecture, a river or creek and château or palace

Patershol

4.5/5(2 area reviews)

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

Patershol
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Heilig Kerst

4/5(1 area review)

Travellers like the theatres in Heilig Kerst, and Intercultural Centre - de Centrale is a top attraction you might want to visit.

Heilig Kerst
Aerial view of houses with view on agricultural land in autumn, in Belgium.

Sint-Martens-Latem

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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