What Are the Best Things to Do in Ghent?

Located in Belgium on the banks of the Scheldt River and Flemish Region, Ghent has been a hot spot for tourists over the past few years. From walking around the cobbled streets to learning about the city’s fascinating history and culture, there is plenty to keep you occupied during a trip to Ghent. Check out some of these top attractions, places to visit and experience in Ghent.

A Walk in the Going Out District – Graslei and Korenlei

Ghent’s Graslei and Korenlei are two of the city’s most popular districts. Located on the banks of the Scheldt River, this area covers the historic commercial centre of Ghent and is one of the main locations for locals and tourists going out for a fun night out.

Graslei is often seen as one of the main areas of hustle and bustle in Ghent; it houses numerous bars, pubs and clubs. It is also home to the Old Docks along with a number of other attractions, including The Oude Vismarkt (old fish market), The Belfort Tower and The Butchers’ Hall.

The Korenlei area is best known for its many restaurants and cafés – many of which are noted for their outdoor seating areas. During the summer months, you’ll find plenty of terraces as well as places to relax in a summer-y atmosphere, so this definitely one place not to miss when visiting Ghent.

St Bavo’s Cathedral

St Bavo’s Cathedral is the main Catholic Cathedral of the city and is one of the most significant cultural monuments in Flanders. The cathedral was erected in 942 and it stands magnificently on a bend in the Lys River. It is home to world-famous works of art such as The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb, also known as The Ghent Altarpiece, by Jan Van Eyck. The Cathedral also hosts an impressive organ that serves as one of the symbols of Ghent. An organ concert from time to time is a must-do experience when traveling to Ghent.

Gravensteen Castle

The Gravensteen Castle, which translates to Castle of the Counts, is considered one of Ghent’s most impressive landmarks. It dates back to 1180, with many features added later on, including a moat surrounding the castle. Today, it serves as a popular tourist attraction, but it used to serve as a courthouse and prison throughout its history. Inside, you will not only find rooms filled with medieval artifacts but you can also go up to the top of its towers where you can enjoy panoramic views over Ghent.

The Old Fish Market

The Old Fish Market is located along the Graslei and offers a vast array of fish stalls and stands. It makes for an excellent experience and tasty bites; due to the large variety of fresh fish in stock, you can choose from. On one side, you can have a local delicacy such as white sturgeon and New Zealand salmon, while on the other side, there are also stalls that offer burgers, wraps and fries. Aside from fish stalls, there are many tiny boutiques and outdoor cafés with tables where you can enjoy a break after walking through this historic area.

Magic Planet

If you or your children enjoy modern, interactive entertainment experiences such as aquariums, theatres or indoor playgrounds than Magic Planet should be on your itinerary. This is an interactive entertainment park that boasts a wide range activities such as laser tag, bumper cars, an escape room, movie theatre and much more. It also has an excellent selection of food options as well as various stalls spread throughout Magic Planet where you can buy souvenirs or items related to the activities that are being presented on site.

Ghent City Museum

The Museum for fine arts in Ghent houses some of the most important and famous artwork from Antiquity to modern times – much display materials from all around Europe. You’ll have the chance to admire works from Rubens and van Dyck, plus a couple of works by Flemish Baroque painters such as Hans Memling’s Adoration of the Magi, Jan van Eyck’s Madonna in a Church and many others. On top of all these pieces of art, there are more than 3000 objects on display too!

Citadel Park

Citadel Park is located south of Ghent’s city centre and offers extensive views over the city while also providing plenty of green spaces to relax in as well as get involved with activities such as jogging or cycling around this area. There are also plenty of historical buildings within it – namely Bloemcampsite, Saint Annenhove Castle, Joseph Guislain Museum and the Baudelopark. In addition to this, visitors can also take part in some special events such as “light festival’ and guided tours around this magnificent park too – making it an ideal destination for those after something slightly different from mainstream attractions.

Drinking with Locals on Craft Beer Tasting Tour

A great way to experience what Ghent has to offer is by joining a craft beer tasting tour with local experts. It’s not only an excellent opportunity to try some unique Belgian beer tastings but also learn more about the city’s culture through dialogue with locals while socializing inside a cozy bar atmosphere. During such tours visitors will visit three bars with seven local beer tastings included, along with some light snacks as accompaniment. Sites like GetYourGuide provide a great way to book such tours ( Experience Belgium’s Beer World with a Young Local) – making it easy for those travelling independently to join such experiences without worrying about wasted time or money!

In conclusion, Ghent is an ancient yet densely populated city with plenty attractions such as Graslei & Korenlei old fishing market, St Bavo’s Cathedral or Gravensteen Castle that are bound to get anyone interested in its rich heritage & culture. In addition to this, modern activities like Magic Planet offer great alternatives for those looking for some Christmas shopping or something for their children – while Citadel Park serves well for those looking for more relaxed excursions around this city. Finally, beer tasting tours are an excellent opportunity not only to sample some unique Belgian beers but also learn more about Ghent’s culture during your trip! All these activities combined make Ghent an ideal destination for short breaks or longer holidays alike – hence make sure you do not leave anything during your trip planning!