20 Things to Do in Ghent, Belgium: Best Places & Experiences

On By saar.decosterIn Belgium

If you’re planning a trip to Ghent, Belgium, you’ll quickly realise that there is much more to the city than its famous medieval centre.

Yes, you should absolutely see Gravensteen, Graslei and Korenlei, but Ghent also has quirky museums, street art, green spaces, student nightlife, independent cinemas and plenty of places where you can simply slow down and enjoy the city.

I lived in Ghent for two years, so this isn’t just a list of the most popular tourist attractions. I’ve included some of my favourite places and things to do in Ghent, including a few spots you might otherwise miss.

Whether you’re visiting Ghent for one day, a weekend or a few days, these are the places and experiences I’d put on your list.

Planning a trip to Ghent? Start with my complete Ghent Travel Guide for more local tips, where to stay, food, nightlife and practical information.

1. Visit Gravensteen

Gravensteen, also known as the Castle of the Counts, is probably the most recognisable attraction in Ghent.

This medieval castle sits right in the historic centre and looks almost like something from a fairytale.

You can walk through the castle, explore its rooms and learn more about Ghent’s medieval history. Don’t skip the views from the top either — you get a great panorama over the historic centre.

If you’re visiting Ghent for the first time, I’d definitely put Gravensteen near the top of your list.

→ Official Gravensteen website

Saar and her friend at Gravensteen Castle in Ghent

Want to know where to stay?

Here are my 4 favourite hotels in Ghent:

2. See the Ghent Altarpiece at Saint Bavo’s Cathedral

Saint Bavo’s Cathedral is one of Ghent’s most impressive buildings and is home to the famous Ghent Altarpiece, also known as The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb.

Even if you’re not particularly interested in churches or religious art, the interior is worth seeing.

The cathedral is also located right in the historic centre, close to the Belfry and Saint Nicholas’ Church, so it’s easy to include when exploring Ghent on foot.

→ Official Saint Bavo’s Cathedral website

3. Walk along Graslei & Korenlei

If there’s one place where I’d recommend simply slowing down, it’s Graslei and Korenlei.

The historic guild houses line the water, making this one of the most beautiful parts of Ghent.

During the day, it’s great for photos, people-watching and grabbing a drink on a terrace. In the evening, the buildings light up and the atmosphere becomes even more magical.

My tip: Don’t just visit for five minutes, take some time to sit by the water and enjoy it.

And if you’re looking for a good coffee or brunch spot while exploring the city, check out my guide to Best Coffee and Brunch in Ghent: My Favourite Cafés.

Historic buildings along the Graslei in Ghent

4. Explore Korenmarkt

Korenmarkt is one of Ghent’s main central squares and another place you’ll naturally pass while exploring the city.

It’s surrounded by historic buildings, cafés, restaurants and terraces and makes a great starting point for exploring the old town.

From here, you’re within easy walking distance of Graslei, Korenlei, Gravensteen, the Belfry and Saint Nicholas’ Church.

5. Wander through Patershol

Patershol is one of my favourite neighbourhoods in Ghent.

This historic area is filled with narrow cobbled streets, old houses, restaurants and cosy bars.

It’s especially nice in the evening when the streets become quieter and the lights create a really atmospheric setting.

You don’t need a plan here, just wander around and see where you end up.

Patershol is also one of my favourite areas to eat in Ghent, so if you’re looking for somewhere good for dinner, check out my guide to the Best Restaurants in Ghent: Where to Eat in Ghent.

6. Find the street art at Graffitistraat

Ghent has a completely different side beyond its medieval architecture.

Head to Graffitistraat, officially Werregarenstraat, to see one of the city’s best-known street-art spots.

The artwork is constantly changing, so it can look completely different from one visit to another.

It’s a quick stop, but an easy one to combine with the historic centre.

Graffiti Street in Ghent, Belgium

Planning your Ghent trip?

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7. Take a Boat Tour of Ghent

One of the best ways to see Ghent from a different perspective is from the water.

Boat tours usually leave from around Graslei and Korenlei and take you through the historic centre, passing medieval buildings, canals and landmarks such as Gravensteen.

It’s particularly enjoyable on a sunny day and is a good option if you want to give your feet a break from walking.

My tip: If the weather is good, I’d definitely add a boat tour to your Ghent itinerary.

→ Check Ghent boat tours on GetYourGuide

8. Visit Wintercircus

The Wintercircus is a beautifully renovated historic building that has been given a new life as a creative and technological hub.

It isn’t necessarily something you need to visit every time you’re in Ghent, as what you can see or do there depends on the programme.

But it’s worth checking what’s happening during your visit, especially if you’re interested in culture, events and creative spaces.

→ Wintercircus Ghent

9. Escape to the Ghent Botanical Garden

Need a break from the busy city?

The Botanical Garden of Ghent University is a peaceful green space near the university area.

It’s a lovely place for a slower afternoon, especially if you enjoy plants and gardens or simply want somewhere quiet to walk around.

→ Plantentuin Universiteit Gent

10. Relax in Coyendanspark

Coyendanspark is a small green space in the city centre where you can take a break from sightseeing.

It’s not one of Ghent’s major attractions, but that’s exactly why I like including places like this in a travel guide.

Grab a coffee or snack and sit down for a while, especially around sunset.

Picnic in Ghent, Belgium

11. Spend a summer afternoon at Blaarmeersen

Visiting Ghent during summer?

Then Blaarmeersen is worth considering.

This large recreational area has water, green spaces and places to swim and sunbathe. It’s a completely different experience from wandering around the medieval city centre.

It’s particularly nice on a warm, sunny day when you want to combine a city trip with some time outdoors.

Blaarmeersen recreation area in Ghent, Belgium

12. Browse the Tweedehands Boekenmarkt

If you’re a book lover, look out for Ghent’s second-hand book market.

It’s a relaxed way to spend part of a Sunday and a nice opportunity to browse through used books while experiencing a more local side of the city.

It’s not something I’d travel across Ghent specifically for, but it’s a lovely addition if you’re already exploring the area.

13. See a show at VIERNULVIER

VIERNULVIER is one of Ghent’s main contemporary arts and cultural centres.

Its programme includes concerts, performances, exhibitions and other cultural events.

Check the programme before your visit — you might find a concert or event that fits perfectly into your evening.

→ Check the VIERNULVIER programme

14. Watch an Independent Film at Sphinx Cinema

Looking for something different to do in Ghent at night?

Sphinx Cinema is an independent cinema showing arthouse and international films.

It also has a cosy café atmosphere, making it a good option for a quieter evening if you don’t feel like going out drinking.

→ Sphinx Cinema

15. Visit the Museum of Fine Arts (MSK)

The Museum of Fine Arts (MSK) is one of Ghent’s main art museums.

Its collection covers centuries of European art, from medieval works through to more modern pieces.

If you’re interested in classical European art, this is probably the museum I’d choose first.

→ Check MSK tickets on GetYourGuide

Interior of the Museum of Fine Arts in Ghent

16. Explore S.M.A.K.

If classical art isn’t really your thing, S.M.A.K. might be a better choice.

This contemporary art museum focuses on modern and experimental works and offers a very different experience from the MSK.

The two museums are located close to each other, so you could easily combine them if you’re spending a full day in the museum district.

→ S.M.A.K.

17. Learn About Ghent at STAM

Want to understand the city beyond its pretty buildings?

STAM, Ghent’s city museum, tells the story of how Ghent developed and changed over time.

It’s particularly useful if you’re interested in the history of the city and want more context for everything you’re seeing while walking around.

→ STAM Ghent

18. Visit Huis van Alijn

Huis van Alijn is a more unusual museum focusing on everyday life and popular culture.

Rather than only looking at major historical events, it gives you an idea of how ordinary people lived in the past.

It’s a fun alternative if traditional art museums aren’t really your thing.

→ Huis van Alijn

19. Discover Ghent’s Science Side at GUM

GUM – Gents Universiteitsmuseum combines science, research and philosophy.

It’s located right next to the university botanical garden, so the two make an easy combination.

I’d particularly recommend it if you’re interested in science, universities or how researchers actually think and work.

→ GUM – Gents Universiteitsmuseum

20. Discover Ghent’s Industrial History at Industriemuseum

Finally, head to the Industriemuseum if you want to see another side of Ghent.

The museum focuses on Belgium’s industrial history, with machinery, technology and stories about the people who worked in the industry.

It’s especially interesting because Ghent has a strong industrial past, which is easy to overlook when you’re focused on the medieval centre.

→ Industriemuseum

My Top 3 Paid Experiences in Ghent

If you’re looking for something more hands-on than sightseeing, these are three experiences I’d consider adding to your Ghent itinerary.

1. Take a Boat Tour

As mentioned above, a canal cruise is one of the easiest ways to experience Ghent from another perspective.

It’s relaxing, doesn’t require much planning and gives you great views of the historic centre.

2. Join a Belgian Waffle-Making Workshop

Belgium and waffles obviously belong together.

A waffle-making workshop is a fun option if you want to do something more interactive rather than simply visiting another attraction.

It’s particularly good for couples, friends or anyone who wants to learn how to make one of Belgium’s most famous treats.

If you want to try more Belgian specialities during your trip, check out my Belgian Food Guide: 15 Foods You Need to Try for the classic dishes and treats I’d recommend.

3. Try a Belgian Chocolate or Praline-Making Workshop

Chocolate lovers should consider joining a Belgian praline-making workshop.

You’ll learn more about Belgian chocolate while getting to make your own treats, which makes this a fun souvenir to take home too.

Here are the ones I’d personally recommend:

Powered by GetYourGuide

Don’t Try to See Everything

One of my biggest tips for visiting Ghent is not to turn your trip into a checklist.

Yes, there are plenty of things to do in Ghent, but one of the best things about the city is simply walking around.

Wander along the canals, get lost in the smaller streets around Patershol, sit on a terrace at Graslei and stop whenever something catches your eye.

I lived here for two years, and that’s still one of the things I love most about Ghent.

The city is small enough to explore easily, but there’s enough going on that you can keep discovering new places.

Still wondering whether Ghent is actually worth adding to your Belgium trip? I’ve shared my honest opinion in Is Ghent Worth Visiting? My Honest Opinion About Belgium’s Most Lively City.

How Many Days Do You Need in Ghent?

For most visitors, 1–2 days in Ghent is enough to see the main attractions and get a feel for the city.

With one day, I’d prioritise:

  • Gravensteen
  • Graslei & Korenlei
  • Korenmarkt
  • Saint Bavo’s Cathedral
  • Patershol
  • Graffitistraat
  • A boat tour

With two days, you can slow down and add museums, parks, neighbourhoods and one of the paid experiences.

If you’re only visiting Ghent for one day, check out my 1 Day in Ghent: The Perfect Itinerary for exactly how I’d spend those 24 hours.

If you’re planning a longer Belgium trip, Ghent also works really well alongside Bruges, Brussels and Antwerp.

If you’re planning a longer Belgium trip, Ghent also works really well alongside Bruges, Brussels and Antwerp. Not sure which Belgian cities are worth adding to your itinerary? My Belgium Cities Compared: Which Belgian City Should You Visit? breaks down what each city is best for and which ones I’d prioritise.

Where to Stay in Ghent

Not sure where to stay?

I’ve written a complete guide to the best areas to stay in Ghent, including the historic centre around Korenmarkt, Coupure, Ghent Zuid, Ghent-Sint-Pieters and Overpoort.

→ Where to Stay in Ghent: Best Areas & Hotels

I also recommend checking accommodation prices before your trip, especially if you’re visiting during a busy weekend or event.

Planning Your Trip to Belgium?

Planning a trip to Belgium can be surprisingly difficult, especially when you’re choosing between historic cities, lively student towns, coastal destinations and smaller hidden gems.

That’s why I’ve created my Belgium Travel Guide, where I share destination guides, things to do, local tips and my personal experiences from travelling around Belgium.

→ START HERE: Belgium Travel Guides
→ GET MY GOOGLE MAP: Belgium Google Map

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FAQ: Things to Do in Ghent

What are the best things to do in Ghent?

Some of the best things to do in Ghent include visiting Gravensteen, Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, Graslei and Korenlei, Patershol and Korenmarkt. A boat tour is also a great way to see the historic centre from the water.

Is Ghent worth visiting?

Absolutely. Ghent combines medieval architecture, canals, museums, nightlife, street art and a lively student atmosphere. It’s also less overwhelmingly touristy than Bruges.

How many days do you need in Ghent?

I’d recommend one to two days in Ghent. One day is enough for the main highlights, while two days gives you time for museums, neighbourhoods and a more relaxed itinerary.

What is Ghent famous for?

Ghent is famous for its medieval architecture, canals, Gravensteen, Graslei and Korenlei, the Ghent Altarpiece and its lively student and cultural scene.

Can you explore Ghent on foot?

Yes. The historic centre of Ghent is very walkable, and many of the main attractions are close together. You don’t need a car to explore the city centre.

What should you not miss in Ghent?

If it’s your first visit, don’t miss Gravensteen, Graslei & Korenlei, Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, Patershol and Korenmarkt. If you have extra time, I’d add a canal boat tour and one museum.

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