Things To Do
in Sint-Amandsberg
Sint-Amandsberg is a residential district immediately east of Ghent's historic center in East Flanders, Belgium, known for its tree-lined streets, 19th-century cemetery and parish church. It functions as a quiet, well-connected neighborhood with good tram and bike links to central Ghent and the main train stations. The area blends working-class and student populations, small local shops, multicultural markets and easy access to parks and canal-side promenades.
Sint-Amandsberg is an excellent base for exploring Ghent’s major attractions while staying in a calmer, more local setting.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the picturesque streets of Sint-Amandsberg, soaking in the charming architecture that dates back centuries. Visit the local bakery to savor fresh pastries and coffee, fueling your exploration of the area. As you wander, take note of the quaint shops and the vibrant local life that surrounds you.
Spend your afternoon exploring the nearby historic sites, including the stunning St. Bavo's Cathedral, which showcases magnificent Gothic architecture. Enjoy a traditional Belgian lunch at a cozy bistro, where you can taste local specialties like carbonnade flamande. Afterward, visit the Museum of Fine Arts to appreciate its extensive collection of Belgian art.
As the sun sets, find a charming café along the riverbank for a delightful dining experience, where you can try local beers and dishes. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the canals, enjoying the reflections of the city lights on the water. Wind down your evening by visiting a local pub to experience the lively atmosphere and perhaps catch some live music.
Begin your morning at the local market, where you can sample fresh produce and artisanal goods from friendly vendors. Engage with local farmers and artisans to learn about their crafts and traditions. The vibrant colors and aromas will surely energize your spirit for the day ahead.
Continue your cultural journey by visiting the local history museum, where you can delve into Sint-Amandsberg's rich past and its role in Belgian history. After that, take a guided walking tour that highlights the hidden gems of the neighborhood, including lesser-known landmarks and stories. Don't forget to stop by a local chocolatier to indulge in some exquisite Belgian chocolates.
For dinner, dine at a restaurant that specializes in Flemish cuisine, enjoying hearty dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Post-meal, attend an evening performance at a local theater or community center showcasing traditional Belgian music or dance. Conclude your evening with a stroll through the city, taking in the night lights and serene ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee (café) | $3-4 |
| 🍺Domestic beer (pint) in bar | $4-6 |
| 🚇Single public transport ticket | $2.50-3.50 |
| 🚕Taxi start / short ride | $4-10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close to Ghent city center while remaining quieter and more residential
- Good cycling and public-transport links to major attractions
- Historic sites like Campo Santo and local churches provide character
- Access to parks and nature reserves without leaving the city
- Fewer specialized tourist services and nightlife options directly in the neighborhood
- Can be damp and gray in autumn/winter, with frequent rain
- Some areas near transport hubs are busier and less scenic
- Limited late-night dining options within the neighborhood itself
- "Hallo / Goedendag" - Hello / Good day
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go (formal)
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you (formal)
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is ...?" - Where is ...?
- "Eet smakelijk" - Enjoy your meal
Places to Visit in Sint-Amandsberg
Visit one of these nice places.
A historic 19th-century cemetery with monumental colonnades and sculptural details — atmospheric for architectural and moody portrait photography.
The parish church in Sint-Amandsberg with neo-Gothic elements; good for interior shots and neighborhood context.
The iconic medieval quays along the Leie River in central Ghent, perfect for golden-hour reflections, historic facades and boat activity.
Panoramic views from the Belfry and dramatic cathedral architecture make for classic Ghent skyline images.
Green spaces and wetlands offering seasonal flora and fauna photography, plus wide open skies and birdlife.
Food in Sint-Amandsberg
Sint-Amandsberg Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Mussels served in a white-wine or cream sauce with fries; widely available at brasseries in Ghent and near the canals.
Must-Try!
A rich Flemish beef stew made with beer and served with fries or mashed potatoes; look for it on traditional menu boards (stoofvlees).
A creamy stew originally from Ghent, traditionally made with chicken or fish, often available in local restaurants.
Street-stand waffles and twice-fried Belgian fries with a variety of sauces — a perfect snack while exploring markets and squares.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A multicultural market near the Dampoort entry to Ghent with fresh produce, halal meats, spices and street-food stalls — go for weekday mornings and late-afternoon snacks.
Historic markets in the city center with seasonal produce, cheese stalls and food kiosks; great for sampling local specialties when visiting downtown.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite greeting (Hallo or Goedendag) and a smile go a long way. In shops and cafés, say hello when entering; staff appreciate basic manners.
Dutch (Flemish) is the local language; most people in Ghent speak English well. Using a few Dutch phrases is appreciated. Be formal in initial interactions and switch to first names if invited.
Respect quiet hours (often late evenings) in residential areas and be mindful of noise at night. Recycling and separation of waste are taken seriously—follow local bins.
Table manners are similar to Western Europe: keep hands visible and wait for hosts to start; it’s polite to say 'eet smakelijk' (enjoy your meal) when dining.
Safety
Tipping in Sint-Amandsberg
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are generally included in restaurant bills (service compris), but it’s common to round up the bill or leave 5–10% for good service. For taxis and small services, rounding up is appreciated.
Card payments (debit and credit) are widely accepted; contactless is common. Keep some cash (EUR) for small market stalls, corner shops or older vendors. Mobile payments are increasingly supported.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming parks make it an excellent time for cycling and photography; occasional rain requires a light waterproof jacket. Early spring sees fewer tourists than summer, so attractions are less crowded.
Warm (rarely hot) weather with long daylight hours — ideal for canal tours, outdoor terraces and festivals. Expect more tourists and make reservations for popular restaurants; pack sunscreen and a light layer for cooler evenings.
Crisp air, colorful foliage in parks and calmer streets—great for walking and food-focused travel. Rain increases compared with summer, so plan indoor museum time as a backup.
Cold, damp and short days with occasional frost; holiday markets and cozy cafés offer seasonal charm. Dress in warm, layered and waterproof clothing and anticipate limited daylight for outdoor photography.
Sint-Amandsberg at Night
Hiking in Sint-Amandsberg
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A wetland reserve west of Ghent with easy trails, boardwalks and birdwatching hides — ideal for flat, accessible walks in a semi-wild setting.
Scenic towpath routes along the Leie and other canals are perfect for long walks or bike-hikes, with river scenery and rural stretches within short cycling distance of Sint-Amandsberg.
Large urban park with tree-lined paths, small ponds and sculptures — good for relaxed, maintained walking routes close to the neighborhood.
Airports
How to reach Sint-Amandsberg by plane.
About 60–80 km from Ghent and the largest international gateway; reachable by train and express bus services (roughly 45–75 minutes depending on connections).
Used by many low-cost carriers; farther from Ghent (around 1–1.5 hours by bus/train), but budget-friendly flight options are available.
Smaller regional airport about 50–60 km away; reachable by train with a transfer, useful for regional flights.
Closer to the Belgian coast, about an hour’s drive from Ghent; some seasonal flights operate here.
Cross-border option roughly an hour away by car or train connections; useful for some international routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Families and older residents who have lived in the neighborhood for decades, contributing to a stable local community.
Due to proximity to Ghent University and the city center, students and young professionals rent apartments nearby, adding energy and diversity.
The area around Dampoort and eastern Ghent has a diverse mix of immigrant communities, reflected in shops, markets and restaurants.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is hugely popular regionally; KAA Gent is the local professional club and draws strong community support.
Cycling is both a practical mode of transport and a national pastime — road cycling and recreational bike rides along canals and countryside are widespread.
Water sports on Ghent’s waterways and nearby rivers attract local clubs and recreational paddlers, especially in warmer months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sint-Amandsberg.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are increasingly common: many cafés and modern bistros list veggie versions of local dishes and salads. Look for vegetarian (vegetarisch) or vegan (vegan) labels, and ask staff — English is widely spoken.
Ghent has a good selection of vegan-friendly restaurants and bakeries; dedicated gluten-free choices are available but can be limited in traditional spots — communicate allergies clearly (in English or by writing them down).