15 Things to do in Ghent, Belgium (with hidden gems)

What are 15 things to do in Ghent, Belgium?

If you’re planning a trip to Belgium, Ghent should be on your list of must-visit cities. This charming city offers a delightful mix of medieval architecture, vibrant culture, and mouth-watering cuisine. Ghent is perfect for history buffs, art lovers, or just people looking to enjoy a good Belgian waffle. So let’s get into this list of 15 things to do in Ghent, Belgium!

Anya

Hi! I’m Anya, founder of the travel blog Stop Going to Paris which focuses on underrated cities in Europe. I’m a passionate traveler but above all, a passionate adventurer always looking for the hidden gems that deserve more love.

After 10 years and 70+ destinations, I can help you plan your European trip: book a call with me. It includes a full itinerary with unique destinations, transportation, accommodation and activities.

Fun fact, I live in… drumroll… Paris! That’s why the name of the blog is funny.

Stroll through Gravensteen Castle

First up is the iconic Gravensteen Castle. This medieval fortress built in the 12th century transports visitors back to the medieval era, complete with towers, a moat, and even a torture chamber. 

Walking through the dungeon displays feels like stepping into the shoes of prisoners from centuries ago. Exhibits here include ancient torture devices and tools, shedding light on the harsh realities of medieval justice. A bit sobering, but also fascinating. 

Don’t worry, this isn’t purely a dark experience. The exhibits are tastefully presented with explanations that provide context rather than sensationalism. It’s a chance to appreciate how far society has come while better understanding the historical realities of life under feudal rule.And if you think the castle is impressive from the ground, wait until you climb to the top of the tower. Don’t miss the view from the top – it’s worth the climb. It’s the perfect spot for photos of the panoramic views of Ghent’s rooftops, canals, and churches.

Admire St. Bavo’s Cathedral

Next, head over to St. Bavo’s Cathedral. This stunning piece of Gothic architecture from the 10th century is home to the famous Ghent Altarpiece. 

The cathedral’s interior is just as impressive as its exterior, with intricate stained glass windows, beautiful artwork, and marvelous craftsmanship seen in the detailed sculptures. It’s truly a stunning masterpiece of Gothic architecture as we all love them. Even the chapel side rooms hide incredible gems, including works by renowned artists like Rubens. 

The crown jewel of St. Bavo’s Cathedral – and arguably Ghent’s most famous art piece – is the Ghent Altarpiece, also known as The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb. 

Painted in 1432 by the Van Eyck brothers, this monumental polyptych is a masterpiece of Early Netherlandish art. Its combination of vivid detail, religious symbolism, and revolutionary use of oil paint changed the course of European art history. 

Pro tip: the altarpiece has a cool hidden panel that reveals more art when opened.

Visit the Ghent Altarpiece

Speaking of the Ghent Altarpiece, it deserves its own spot on the list. Also known as the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb, created by the Van Eyck brothers, this masterpiece is considered one of the most important works of art in the world. It’s like the Mona Lisa of Ghent, with art lovers drawn there from all over the globe. Don’t miss it!

Wander around Patershol

Ghent is a very beautiful city, that you can visit through a guided walking tour complete with food and drink tastings. 

Among all the neighborhoods of Ghent, Patershol is one of the best. It’s a picturesque place with narrow, cute cobblestone streets and medieval architecture. It’s packed with cozy cafes, quirky shops, and some of the best restaurants in Ghent. Take your time exploring – you never know what hidden gem you’ll find around the next corner. And speaking of hidden gems, I found the best chocolate shop here and may or may not have eaten an entire box of pralines in one sitting. 

Patershol is paradise for food lovers. My restaurant recommendations in Ghent:

• ‘t Klaverblad: Tucked away in a quiet corner, this intimate spot offers a seasonal menu that showcases the best of Belgian cuisine. Expect dishes like creamy waterzooi or rich game stews served with a creative twist.
• Otomat: A quirky pizza bar with a Belgian spin. Their “Beer in the Dough” pizzas are a hit, often incorporating local ingredients like abbey cheeses or Gentse Tierenteyn mustard.
• Roots: A must-visit for a modern, farm-to-table experience. The chef crafts beautifully plated meals using fresh, local produce, making every dish a work of art.

As for the nightlife, it is excellent. After all, Belgium is the country of beer – so you cannot go wrong with bars in Ghent. Here are my bar recommendations for a quality evening and night in Ghent:

• ‘t Dreupelkot: For something truly unique, visit this small bar specializing in jenever, the Belgian juniper-based spirit. The owner is happy to guide you through dozens of flavors, from fruity to spicy.
• Café Het Waterhuis aan de Bierkant: Located just outside Patershol, this bar is known for its extensive beer selection. With over 100 Belgian brews on offer, you’re bound to find your new favorite.
• Mosquito Coast: A cozy café that doubles as a travel-themed bar. Enjoy cocktails or Belgian classics in quirky surroundings filled with globes, maps, and postcards.

Discover hidden gems in the Dampoort district

Dampoort is emerging as a trendy neighborhood filled with street art, cool cafes, and artisan shops. Dampoort is full of creative energy and an eclectic mix of old and new. Located to the east of the city center, it’s a neighborhood that often flies under the radar for tourists, but it’s gaining attention for its edgy street art, cultural spots, and buzzing local vibe. 

Spaces like DOK, a community-driven project along the canal, host temporary art installations, workshops, and events. It’s a fantastic place to experience the grassroots creative pulse of Ghent. DOK’s relaxed vibe makes it a popular hangout spot for locals, offering food, drinks, and live music, especially in the warmer months.

It’s perfect for travelers looking to explore beyond tourist-heavy areas.

Take a boat tour

Seeing Ghent from the water gives you a whole new perspective. These canals have connected the city for centuries and are a big part of its history and culture. 

Boat tours are also a relaxing way to take in the sights and learn a bit of history from the local guides. Plus, there’s something undeniably charming about the city reflecting on the water of the canals. 

Here are the highlights of this 50-min boat tour on the Canals:

• Graslei and Korenlei: These historic quays showcase rows of grand, medieval buildings. 
• Old Fish Market (Oude Vismijn): Once the bustling center of Ghent’s fish trade, this striking building is marked by its imposing stone gate. Carvings of Neptune and other sea deities hint at its maritime history.
• Castle of the Counts (Gravensteen): From the water, the towering walls of this medieval fortress are even more impressive. Seeing it from the canal gives you a sense of its strategic importance centuries ago.
• St. Michael’s Bridge: One of the most picturesque spots in the city, which you’ll pass under. 

Even smaller bridges and quiet corners of the canal reveal hidden details about Ghent’s rich history. 

Discover Graslei and Korenlei

These two streets along the Leie River are some of the most beautiful spots in Ghent. Lined with historic buildings, they’re perfect for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing drink by the water. Grab a seat at one of the outdoor cafes and watch the world go by. 

Few experiences rival sipping a drink along the Graslei or Korenlei as you soak in the views. The quays are lined with cafes, bistros, and bars, many of which offer outdoor seating right by the water. Some popular places to consider:

• Maison Elza: Known for its inviting terrace, this spot serves up Belgian classics from hearty stews to refreshing local beers.
• Waterhuis aan de Bierkant: Just steps away, this lively bar has a menu showcasing a curated selection of Belgium’s finest brews.
• De Graslei Café: A good option to grab a drink, sit back, and watch the boats drift by accompanied by the hum of city life.

Enjoy Ghent’s street art

Ghent has a vibrant street art scene that’s worth exploring. Take a walk down Werregarenstraat, also known as Graffiti Street, to see some amazing murals. The art is constantly changing, so there’s always something new to see. I tried to take a cool “graffiti artist” photo here but ended up with paint on my shirt – still worth it for the gram.

If you’re serious about uncovering the stories behind Ghent’s murals and graffiti, consider joining a guided street art tour. This biking street art tour connects you with local experts who know not just where to find the art but also the history and meaning behind each piece.

You’ll learn about prolific artists like Roa or Bue the Warrior, whose murals have gained international fame. Guides also point out the subtle, smaller pieces you might otherwise miss – like hidden stencil works or thought-provoking tags scattered around the city.

Some tours even include neighborhoods like Dampoort, an area bursting with large-scale murals and contemporary works, or Rue des Graffiti, another hotspot for legal street art. 

See Saint Nicholas’ Church

One of Ghent’s oldest and most beautiful churches, Saint Nicholas’ Church is a masterpiece of early Gothic architecture. Its iconic blue-gray stone façade and central tower will immediately catch your eye. Step inside to marvel at the stained glass windows and grand organ. Entry is free.

Visit Dr. Guislain Museum

Dive into the history of psychiatry and mental health at this unique museum housed in a former asylum. It combines thought-provoking exhibitions with surprising art collections, offering a deeper cultural experience.

Explore the Old Fish Market

This historic market building is located near the Lys River. Today, it houses food vendors, shops, and even some small restaurants. The Neptune statue and unique entry portal are worth a quick visit.

Explore the museums

Ghent is home to several fantastic museums. The Fine Arts Museum and the STAM city museum are top picks. 

The Fine Arts Museum, locally known as MSK, is one of Belgium’s oldest art museums, housing a collection that spans centuries of Flemish artistry. Some of its highlights include works by renowned artists such as Peter Paul Rubens, Hieronymus Bosch, and Van Dyck. 

STAM, the Ghent City Museum, is where the past, present, and future of the city come together under one roof. Packed with interactive exhibits, STAM masterfully showcases how Ghent evolved from a medieval powerhouse to the city it is today.

What makes STAM particularly engaging are its multimedia elements. You can explore miniature models of the city through the ages, listen to recordings of historical figures, and even participate in hands-on displays. The exhibits go beyond dry facts – they’re designed to make history feel alive and personal.

Even if you’re not a big museum-goer, these are definitely worth a visit. Last time I was here, I learned more about Ghent’s history than I did in any history class – and I actually enjoyed it!

Walk or cycle in the Citadelpark

This expansive green space is perfect for a break from sightseeing. The park features beautiful gardens, ponds, and plenty of shady spots to relax. It’s also close to many museums like MSK and SMAK, making it a great stop between visits.

Great Butchers’ Hall 

Foodies, this one’s for you. The Great Butchers’ Hall is a foodie paradise with local delicacies. It’s a great place to pick up some tasty souvenirs or just indulge in some delicious snacks. I bought a wheel of cheese here and had to carry it around all day – totally worth it!

Inside the Great Butchers’ Hall, you’ll be greeted by an array of local specialities:

• Dried Hams: The focal point is the iconic Ganda ham, made using age-old methods and cured to perfection. Its salty yet nutty flavor makes it a standout.
• Cheeses: Locally produced cheeses, like the creamy blue-veined Brugse Blomme or aged Oud Brugge, offer a taste of Belgium’s dairy craftsmanship.

Savor Belgian waffles

No trip to Belgium is complete without trying a Belgian waffle, and Ghent has some of the best. I highly recommend these 2 places: 

• Waffles n’ Beer: they even offer a waffle-making workshop!
• House of Waffles: great variety of waffles, you will surely find what your heart desires here.

Summary of the Things to Do in Ghent, Belgium

Here’s a quick recap of all the things you can do in Ghent, Belgium:

• Visit Gravensteen Castle
• Admire Saint Bavo’s Cathedral
• See the adoration of the Mystic Lamb, a.k.a the Ghent Altarpiece
• Take a boar tour
• Wander around in Graslei and Korenlei
• Admire all the street art
• Visit Saint Nicholas’ Church
• Visit Dr. Guislain Museum, an old asylum turned museum about the history of psych
• Explore the Old Fish Market
• Explore the museums of Ghent
• Enjoy the food in Great Butchers’ Hall and the city center
• Eat tons of Belgian waffles

Where to eat in Ghent

You should also try this famous cart in the city center selling Cuberdon, a delicious local specialty. It’s just next to Tierenteyn-Verlent, Ghent’s oldest grocery store which has been open since 1790. I got there the most incredible mustard that I use all the time now!

Patershol is paradise for food lovers. Here are my restaurant recommendations in Ghent:

• ‘t Klaverblad: Tucked away in a quiet corner, this intimate spot offers a seasonal menu that showcases the best of Belgian cuisine. Expect dishes like creamy waterzooi or rich game stews served with a creative twist.
• Otomat: A quirky pizza bar with a Belgian spin. Their “Beer in the Dough” pizzas are a hit, often incorporating local ingredients like abbey cheeses or Gentse Tierenteyn mustard.
• Roots: A must-visit for a modern, farm-to-table experience. The chef crafts beautifully plated meals using fresh, local produce, making every dish a work of art.

For the best waffles in town: 

• Waffles n’ Beer: they even offer a waffle-making workshop!
• House of Waffles: great variety of waffles, you will surely find what your heart desires here.

Can’t leave Belgium without trying a beer. Here are my bar recommendations for a quality evening and night in Ghent:

• Café Het Waterhuis aan de Bierkant: Located just outside Patershol, this bar is known for its extensive beer selection. With over 100 Belgian brews on offer, you’re bound to find your new favorite.
• Mosquito Coast: A cozy café that doubles as a travel-themed bar. Enjoy cocktails or Belgian classics in quirky surroundings filled with globes, maps, and postcards.
• ‘t Dreupelkot: For something truly unique, visit this small bar specializing in jenever, the Belgian juniper-based spirit. The owner is happy to guide you through dozens of flavors, from fruity to spicy.

Final thoughts

Ghent is a city that has history, culture, art, food, and nightlife. It’s fantastic to be able to explore a medieval castle, admire world-famous art, and enjoy a waffle by the canal, all in one day. It was one of my favorite day trips that I ever had when I was a student in Lille. Highly recommend!

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