Things To Do
in Gent
Gent, Belgium, is a vibrant city known for its medieval architecture, rich history, and lively cultural scene. The city boasts stunning canals and cobblestone streets, making it a picturesque destination for travelers. Gent is also famous for its culinary offerings and local beers, providing a unique taste of Belgian culture.
With a youthful population due to its university, the city combines the charm of history with a modern, dynamic atmosphere.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Gravensteen Castle, a medieval fortress offering panoramic views of the city.
Stroll along the Graslei and Korenlei, enjoying lunch at a canal-side café before visiting St. Bavo's Cathedral to see the famous Ghent Altarpiece.
Dine at a local restaurant, then take a guided evening boat tour to see the city illuminated at night.
Visit the Museum of Fine Arts and explore its impressive collection of Flemish masterpieces.
Walk through the Citadelpark and enjoy a picnic or relax in the gardens; then head to the STAM City Museum to learn about Gent's history.
Experience the local nightlife in the Patershol district, filled with bars and eateries, where you can sample Belgian beers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at a mid-range restaurant | $20 |
| ☕Coffee | $3 |
| 🍺Local beer | $5 |
| 🚌Public transport ticket | $3 |
| 🏨Hotel (per night) | $100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical and cultural heritage
- Delicious local cuisine and beers
- Lively atmosphere with plenty of activities
- Can be crowded during peak tourist season
- Weather can be unpredictable
- Some areas may have language barriers for non-Dutch speakers
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dank u" - Thank you
- "Alstublieft" - Please
- "Waar is de toilet?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Ik spreek geen Nederlands" - I don't speak Dutch
Places to Visit in Gent
Visit one of these nice places.
Capture stunning views of the city from this medieval castle, especially at sunset.
The intricate architecture and grand interiors make this cathedral a must-photograph site.
These picturesque canal-side streets are perfect for capturing the charm of Gent.
Food in Gent
Gent Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A creamy stew made with fish or chicken, vegetables, and potatoes.
Must-Try!
A rich beef stew cooked in dark beer, often served with fries.
A cone-shaped candy with a soft, raspberry-flavored filling, a local delicacy.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market held every Friday, offering fresh produce, local cheeses, and street food.
A vibrant food market located in a former industrial area, featuring diverse food stalls and local products.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly 'Hallo' or 'Bonjour' is standard; handshakes are common in formal settings.
Wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat, and it’s polite to keep your hands on the table.
Making an effort to speak Dutch or French is appreciated, given the bilingual nature of the region.
Safety
Tipping in Gent
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.
Credit cards are widely accepted, but having cash on hand for small vendors is advisable.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a lovely time to explore parks and gardens.
Enjoy festivals, outdoor dining, and vibrant nightlife, but be prepared for occasional rain.
The fall foliage adds beauty to the city, and it's a great time for food festivals.
Cold temperatures and festive decorations create a cozy atmosphere, especially during the Christmas markets.
Gent at Night
Hiking in Gent
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A serene park with walking trails, ideal for casual hikes and enjoying nature.
Located just outside Gent, this forest offers several hiking trails amidst lush greenery.
Airports
How to reach Gent by plane.
Located about 60 km from Gent, Brussels Airport is the closest major international airport, offering a wide range of flights to global destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
With several universities in the city, a significant portion of Gent's population consists of students, contributing to the vibrant and youthful atmosphere.
The city attracts a diverse community of artists and musicians, drawn by its rich cultural heritage and creative opportunities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cycling is a popular sport in Gent, with extensive bike paths and cycling events throughout the year.
Football has a passionate following in the region, with local teams competing in the Belgian league.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Gent.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, but it's advisable to check menus ahead.
Some restaurants provide gluten-free alternatives, especially for traditional dishes.