Things To Do
in Gentbrugge

Gentbrugge is a charming suburb located just east of Ghent, Belgium. Known for its quiet residential atmosphere, it offers a peaceful retreat while still being close to the vibrant cultural scene of Ghent. The area is characterized by beautiful parks, historical buildings, and a friendly community feel.

With convenient public transport links, Gentbrugge serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding regions.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Gentbrugge
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, followed by a visit to the nearby Park Ledeberg for a stroll among the greenery.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon visiting the historic sites in Ghent, such as Gravensteen Castle and St. Bavo's Cathedral.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Belgian restaurant in Ghent, enjoying local specialties, followed by a relaxing walk along the canals.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before heading to the nearby Bourgoyen-Ossemeersen nature reserve for some bird-watching and hiking.

afternoon
:

Visit the Museum of Fine Arts in Ghent, where you can admire works from the Renaissance to contemporary art.

evening
:

Experience the local nightlife by visiting a bar or pub in Gentbrugge, enjoying Belgian beers and live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$20
Coffee$3
🍺Local beer$5
🚍Public transport ticket$2
🛍️Souvenir$10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Close proximity to Ghent's cultural attractions.
  • A peaceful and friendly atmosphere.
  • Access to beautiful parks and outdoor activities.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to Ghent.
  • Less touristy, which may mean fewer amenities for visitors.
  • Public transport may be less frequent during off-peak hours.
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank u" - Thank you
  • "Waar is de toilet?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Ik spreek geen Nederlands" - I do not speak Dutch
  • "Help!" - Help!

Places to Visit in Gentbrugge

Visit one of these nice places.

Gravensteen Castle

A medieval castle with impressive architecture and a scenic view of the city, perfect for capturing historical essence.

St. Bavo's Cathedral

A stunning Gothic cathedral featuring intricate details and the famous altarpiece by Van Eyck.

The Canals of Ghent

Picturesque canals lined with historic buildings, best photographed during sunset for magical lighting.

Culinary Guide

Food in Gentbrugge

Gentbrugge offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing the richness of Belgian cuisine. Visitors can indulge in local dishes, street foods, and refreshing beverages that reflect the region's culture and history.

Gentbrugge Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Waterzooi

A traditional Belgian stew made with chicken or fish, vegetables, and a creamy broth.

Must-Try!

Stoverij

A rich beef stew cooked in Belgian beer, typically served with fries.

Gentse Stoverij

A variation of stoverij specific to Ghent, often prepared with dark beer.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Gentbrugge Market

A local market where you can find fresh produce, meats, and artisanal products every Saturday.

Street Food Festival

An annual event showcasing various food trucks and street vendors offering local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Gentbrugge experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild summers and cool winters. Average summer temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 0°C (32°F). Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, making it advisable to carry an umbrella during visits.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Greeting with a polite 'Bonjour' or 'Goedendag' and saying 'Merci' or 'Dank u' is appreciated.

Punctuality

Being on time for appointments and social gatherings is considered respectful.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal before eating, and keep hands on the table (but not elbows) during dining.

Safety Guide

Safety

Gentbrugge is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping valuables secure. It's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places.

Tipping in Gentbrugge

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to round up the bill or leave a small tip (5-10%) in restaurants, although service charges are often included.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it ideal for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Warm weather and longer days are perfect for exploring markets and enjoying outdoor dining.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage create a beautiful backdrop for walks and sightseeing.

Winter

Cold weather may limit outdoor activities, but festive markets and cozy cafes provide warmth and cheer.

Nightlife Guide

Gentbrugge at Night

Gentbrugge offers a relaxed nightlife scene, with various bars and cafes where locals gather to enjoy Belgian beers and wines. In nearby Ghent, the nightlife is more vibrant, featuring nightclubs, live music venues, and cultural events. Visitors can enjoy a mix of traditional pubs and modern bars, with options for all tastes.

Hiking in Gentbrugge

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Bourgoyen-Ossemeersen Nature Reserve

A beautiful nature reserve featuring various trails suitable for hiking and bird-watching.

Langelede Park

A park with walking paths surrounded by natural beauty, perfect for a leisurely hike.

Airports

How to reach Gentbrugge by plane.

Antwerp International Airport (ANR)

Located about 55 km from Gentbrugge, this airport serves both domestic and European flights, providing easy access to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Gentbrugge is quite walkable, with well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas. The proximity to parks and local shops makes it easy to explore on foot. However, some areas may require a short walk to reach public transport stations or major attractions.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

A growing demographic in Gentbrugge, drawn by its proximity to Ghent and affordable housing.

Families

Many families choose Gentbrugge for its quiet environment and access to parks and schools.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is hugely popular in Gentbrugge, with local clubs and a strong community following.

Cycling

Cycling is a favored pastime, with many residents using bikes for commuting and leisure.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Gentbrugge is generally manageable, with local roads serving primarily residential needs. The public transportation system includes buses and trams that connect Gentbrugge to Ghent and surrounding areas, making it easy to navigate without a car.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Gentbrugge.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's recommended to ask for customization.

Gluten-Free

Some establishments provide gluten-free options; however, it's best to inform them of your dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Belgium has a high-quality healthcare system, with accessible medical facilities. Gentbrugge residents have access to both public and private hospitals, as well as numerous clinics. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and it is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance covering medical expenses.

Discover Belgium

Read more in our Belgium 2025 Travel Guide.

Belgium Travel Guide