Ghent: A Helpful City Guide For Tourists

Ghent is a beautiful city in the Flemish region of Belgium, and is one of the few places in Europe that has managed to retain its medieval charm and architectural heritage. The city is an absolute delight for sightseers and tourists, with plenty of attractions and activities to keep you busy. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at what makes Ghent so special and provide a helpful guide for first-time visitors so that you can make the most out of your trip.

A Brief History Of Ghent

Ghent, or Gent as it is called in Dutch, has a long and rich history that dates back to the Middle Ages. It was once one of the wealthiest cities in Europe and was a major centre of trade, craftsmanship and art. The city was also an important cultural centre and had a vibrant university, which attracted students from all over Europe. Unfortunately, during the 16th century, Ghent was badly damaged by a series of wars and conflicts, but it managed to rebuild itself to become one of the most important cities in Belgium.

Today, Ghent is a bustling city with a population of over 250,000 people. It is home to numerous cultural and historical attractions, as well as a thriving nightlife scene. The city is also renowned for its gourmet food, with many restaurants serving up delicious local dishes. Ghent is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world, and it is easy to see why – there is something for everyone here!

Things To Do In Ghent

There are plenty of things to do in Ghent that will keep you busy for days. Here are some of the highlights:

Explore The City’s Historic Centre

One of the best ways to get to know Ghent is to explore its historic centre. This area is home to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Belfry of Ghent, St. Bavo’s Cathedral and the Graslei river port. Wander around the cobbled streets and admire the stunning Renaissance and Baroque architecture. Don’t forget to check out the Patershol district, which is one of the oldest neighbourhoods in the city and home to numerous restaurants, bars and cafes.

Visit The Gravensteen Castle

Another must-see attraction in Ghent is the Gravensteen Castle, which was built in 1180 by Count Philip of Alsace. This imposing castle is one of the best-preserved medieval fortresses in Europe, and it offers stunning views of the city from its ramparts. Inside the castle you can explore its many rooms, which are filled with interesting artefacts from the Middle Ages. You can also take a guided tour to learn more about the castle’s history.

Stroll Along The Graslei And Korenlei

The Graslei and Korenlei are two of Ghent’s most beautiful areas. These streets are lined with beautiful medieval buildings and are situated along the banks of the Lys river. Stroll along these streets and admire the stunning architecture, or take a boat tour to get a unique view of the city. There are also plenty of restaurants, bars and cafes in this area, so you can stop for a bite to eat or a drink while you explore.

Shop At The Vrijdagmarkt

The Vrijdagmarkt is one of Ghent’s oldest markets and it has been operating since 1337. Today it is one of the best places in the city to pick up souvenirs, gifts and other items. You can find everything from handmade crafts to antiques at this market, so be sure to take some time to browse. You can also find plenty of delicious food stalls here if you’re feeling peckish.

Experience The Nightlife Of Ghent

Ghent has a vibrant nightlife scene that offers something for everyone. There are plenty of bars, pubs and clubs in the city centre that offer drinks and live music. If you’re looking for something a little different then head to “t Zand square, which is home to some of Ghent’s best bars and clubs. This area is also known for its street performers, so you’re sure to have an unforgettable night out here!

Learn About The City’s Art Scene

Ghent has long been known as an artistic hub, with numerous galleries dotted throughout the city. The MSK museum houses some incredible works by masters such as Bruegel, Rubens and van Eyck, while the SMAK art museum showcases contemporary art from artists all over the world. Don’t forget to check out Gravensteen Castle’s impressive art collection as well!

Popular Tours In Ghent

If you want to explore Ghent like a local then why not take a tour? Here are two popular tours that will help you get to know this beautiful city better:

Ghent Sightseeing Tour

The Ghent Sightseeing Tour is a great way to discover some of the city’s most iconic sights in just two hours. This tour takes you past Ghent’s historic centre and its stunning architecture, as well as its bustling markets, medieval churches and famous museums. You will also get to visit some of the city’s hidden gems that you won’t find on any map! Plus, your guide will be able to provide interesting facts about these sights that you won’t find in any guidebook. To book your spot on this tour, simply click here.

Ghent Food Tour

For food lovers, there is no better way to experience Ghent than on a food tour! On this three-hour tour, you will visit some of the city’s best restaurants and cafes as well as some hidden gems that only locals know about. Your guide will provide interesting information about Ghent’s history as you sample delicious local dishes such as Flemish beef stew and Belgian waffles. To book your spot on this tour, simply click here.

Conclusion

Ghent is an amazing destination for tourists from all over the world, with plenty of attractions and activities for all ages! Whether you want to explore its historic centre or sample some delicious local dishes, there is something for everyone here. Don’t forget to take one of the popular tours mentioned above – they are both sure to be an unforgettable experience!