1. Delve into recent history at House of Alijn

Also known as Huis van Alijn, this unique museum focuses on the daily life of regular people from the 20th century. It is a great way of getting a glimpse into a lifestyle that is no longer to be found. Browse through an extensive collection of photographs, objects, and movies that are sure to evoke nostalgic memories of your childhood. Perfect for visits with the family or alone, this charming museum also has a quaint café set in the interior garden. It is a popular venue for open air concerts and puppet shows during the Ghent Festivities.

House of Alijn

Address: Kraanlei 65, 9000 Ghent

Website: House of Alijn

Opening hours: Mon - Tue: 9am - 5pm; Thu - Fri: 9am - 5pm; Sat - Sun: 10am - 6pm (closed on Wed)

Price: 3 - 8 USD

2. Appreciate the fine collection at Museum of Fine Arts

Better known as Museum Voor Schone Kunsten, this is one of the oldest in the country. Situated near Citadelpark, this museum is home to an extensive collection of art dating back to the Middle Ages. While Flemish art dominates the collection, there are also plenty of French paintings. The museum designed by city architect Charles van Rysselberghe is home to a large number of sculptures. Hieronymus Bosch, Anthony van Dyck, and Maarten van Heemskerck are some of the famous names whose works can be seen here.

Museum of Fine Arts

Address: Fernand Scribedreef 1, 9000 Ghent

Website: Museum of Fine Arts

Opening hours: Tue - Fri: 9:30am - 5:30pm; Sat - Sun: 10am - 6pm (closed on Mon)

Price: 2 - 12 USD

3. Check out the interactive displays at STAM - Ghent City Museum

A must-visit place for cultural enthusiasts, this museum chronicles the history of the city with a permanent exhibit that takes you on a journey through time. You get to walk over a huge aerial photograph of the city and a multimedia app lets you see its evolution over four different centuries. The interactive displays here are fascinating and an audio guide is also available to ensure you do not miss out on anything important. The museum is not so big as to overwhelm you, but at the same time has enough to keep you busy. There are also benches placed around strategically so you can rest a while if required.

STAM – Ghent City Museum

Address: Bijlokesite, Godshuizenlaan 2 - 9000 Ghent

Website: STAM – Ghent City Museum

Opening hours: Mon - Tue: 9am - 5pm; Thu - Fri: 9am - 5pm; Sat - Sun: 10am - 6pm (closed on Wed)

Price: 3 - 9 USD

4. Admire the sights during a leisurely boat tour (from USD 10.84)

Settle into a comfortable and sturdy boat as you set out to discover this beautiful city from the water. Get a unique perspective of the beautiful architecture that the city boasts of as you gently sail along for a little more than half an hour. Marvel at the majestic Castle of Counts or the Gravensteen that dates back to the 12th century. Soak in the historic ambiance of all the prominent landmarks that you pass by on this fascinating tour. Listen to your guide’s narration of interesting anecdotes and facts about all these and more.

Ghent: 40-Minute Historical Boat Tour of City Center

306 reviews

from USD

10.84

Book Now

5. Climb up the tallest belfry of Ghent

Belfry of Ghent or Het Belfort van Gent is one of three medieval towers that soar above the old city center. Besides serving its purpose as a bell tower, this also doubles up as a watchtower and a storehouse for certain important documents. There is an elevator that will take you right up to the top of this imposing structure for panoramic views of the entire city! This is the tallest belfry in the country and is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site. The top portion of the structure has been rebuilt quite a few times to make room for more bells.

Belfry of Ghent

Address: Sint-Baafsplein, 9000 Ghent

Website: Belfry of Ghent

Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)

Price: 3 - 7 USD

6. Book an urban mountain bike tour (from USD 52.05)

Discover the hidden gems of the city and feel like a local on this three-hour mountain bike tour of the urban areas. See the city from a whole different angle as you set off on this small-group tour with a knowledgeable guide for company. You will get to see a good deal of creative street art as you make your way along the city streets. Bikes and helmets will be provided and also rain ponchos in case of inclement weather conditions.

Ghent: Guided Urban Bike Tour

Duration: 2.5 hour

197 reviews

from USD

52.05

Book Now

7. Step back in time at Saint Peter's Abbey

This erstwhile Benedictine Abbey was founded in the 7th century by Saint Amand who was also the person who named the city. Now turned into a museum and exhibition center, this abbey sits on sprawling grounds that are also home to beautiful gardens making it an ideal place to enjoy some greenery right at the heart of the bustling city. You can stroll past the quadrangle and wander around the medieval dining hall as well as the tranquil church before browsing through the permanent exhibition. A movie guide with a virtual monk will help you navigate across the abbey and its grounds.

Saint Peter's Abbey

Address: Sint-Pietersplein 9, 9000 Ghent

Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 10 am - 6pm (closed on Mon)

Price: 5 USD

8. Learn about the city’s industrial history at MIAT Ghent

This museum showcases the industrial heritage of this city that was at the forefront of the industrial revolution of the continent. Set up in an old cotton mill, this museum offers a good look at the major technological changes that the city has seen over the past couple of centuries. You can also savor stunning views of the city from the top floor of the museum.

Museum of Industry

Address: Minnemeers 10, 9000 Ghent

Website: Museum of Industry

Opening hours: Mon - Tue, Thu - Fri: 9am - 5pm; Sat - Sun: 10am - 6pm (closed on Wed)

Price: 2 - 7 USD

9. Admire the iconic masterpiece at Saint Bavo's Cathedral

This imposing Gothic cathedral is an iconic landmark of the city. The seat of the diocese of Ghent is known for its famous altarpiece, the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb that is considered a masterpiece. Painted by Hubert and Jan van Eyck, this work of art is counted among the important piece of work of the Northern Renaissance period. The extraordinary way in which this masterpiece has been painted gives an impression of an extra dimension.

Saint Bavo’s Cathedral

Address: Sint-Baafsplein, 9000 Ghent, Belgium

Website: Saint Bavo’s Cathedral

Opening hours: 8:30 am - 5 pm (daily)

Price: Free

10. Begin a gastronomical adventure in Patershol

Head to the Patershol area of the city for a culinary journey across the city’s gastronomical delights. The minute you step into this beautiful locality, you will be transported back in time to the Middle Ages. Savor the splendid architecture of the area along with a range of local delicacies at the choc-a-bloc eateries, bars, and restaurants here. Sample a variety of international cuisines if that’s more to your liking.

Patershol

Address: 9000 Ghent, Belgium

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Price: Free

11. Click memorable pictures at Saint Michael's Bridge

Set on the River Leie, this splendid stone bridge is a great spot for some selfies as well as capturing spectacular images of the iconic landmarks around. From St. Michaels Church to the Graslei and Korenlei, there are plenty of vistas beckoning you. You can also see the Old Fish Market and the Castle of the Counts at a distance from your vantage spot on the bridge. This neo-Gothic bridge with its beautiful stone arches is also a romantic spot frequented by couples in love.

Saint Michael's Bridge

Address: Sint-Michielsplein 4, 9000 Ghent, Belgium

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Price: Free

12. Marvel at the beauty of Saint Nicholas’ Church

One of the city’s oldest landmarks, this stunningly beautiful church made of Tournai Blue Stone stands majestically towering over its surroundings. The tower functioned as an observation post before the now-famous belfry was constructed. The church organ here was made by the famous craftsman Aristide Cavaillé-Coll. The surrounding area is ideal for a stroll in the shade of the church and other beautiful buildings around.

Saint Nicholas’ Church

Address: Cataloniëstraat, 9000 Ghent

Opening hours: Mon: 2pm - 5pm; Tue - Sun: 10am - 5pm

Price: Free

13. Go bird-watching at Bourgoyen-Ossemeersen

This sprawling nature reserve on the outskirts of the city invites you to explore at your own pace. Known for its large population of duck and geese, this reserve is made up of flooded meadows and a network of ditches and canals. It is a great place to watch migratory birds that arrive here during summer. Quite a few small predators such as foxes, weasels, and polecats can also be found here.

Bourgoyen-Ossemeersen

Address: Driepikkelstraat 32, 9030 Mariakerke (Ghent)

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Price: Free

14. Wander around the colorful Graffiti Street

The vibrant Graffiti Street throws a different light on this historic city. With the artwork on this street changing on a weekly basis, you are bound to see something new every visit. This is a public canvas of sorts for young artists of the city and is a riot of colors underlining the freedom of expression of individuals. There are also quite a few other graffiti hotspots around the city with a range of guided tours that take you around these places.

Graffiti Street

Address: Werregarenstraat, 9000 Ghent

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Price: Free

15. Catch a game of football at KAA Gent Stadium

Also known as the Ghelamco Arena, this is the home ground of the football club KAA Gent since 2013. With a seating capacity of 20,000, this stadium is located on the outskirts of the city. You could watch a football game here and feel the excitement of the crowd. The stadium with a sustainable yet functional design is also rented out for various events around the year. It can be easily accessed through different means of public transport.

KAA Gent Stadium

Address: Ottergemsesteenweg Zuid 808, 9000 Ghent

Website: KAA Gent Stadium

16. Unwind at Citadelpark

True to its name, this park has been built on the site of a former citadel. Dating back to 1875, this park sits on a hill between two rivers and is a great spot to breathe in some fresh air in the heart of the city. The trees here are identified by name tags and you could pass your time trying to pick up on the distinctive characteristics of each. With its water bodies and numerous trails, this is a perfect spot to unwind, cycle, jog, or simply take a walk. It also hosts an annual flower festival.

Citadelpark

Address: 9000 Ghent

Website: Citadelpark

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Price: Free

17. Get a closer look at the unique Ghent City Hall

This unique building showcases two distinctly different schools of architecture! While the Gothic façade dates back to the early 16th century, the Renaissance façade comes in later. The interior is a labyrinth of chambers and corridors offset by numerous stained glass windows. With 51 rooms, the building also houses the wedding chapel where locals get married every day. You can also opt for a guided tour of the building.

Ghent City Hall

Address: Historische Huizen Gent, Sint-Pietersplein 9, 9000 Ghent

Website: Ghent City Hall

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8am - 5pm (closed on Sat & Sun)

Price: 92 USD

18. Interact with the locals at Vrijdagmarkt

This vibrant city square is set in the heart of the historic center of Ghent. It hosts a weekly market on Fridays that gives the square its name. The square is surrounded by numerous restaurants and bars that make it a hub of activity over the weekends. Trendy fashion boutiques, vintage bookstores, and gift shops can all be found in the area. You will not realize how time flies as you stroll around the square taking in the sights and sounds.

Vrijdagmarkt

Address: 9000 Ghent

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Price: Free

19. Treat your foodie soul at Oak Restaurant

This Michelin-starred restaurant promises you a gourmet feast to remember. The delicacies served here are a fusion of flavors with local ingredients enhanced by Mediterranean herbs and Asian spices with some South American influences too. The chef presents the dishes himself. The restaurant has extremely limited seating. Thus, getting a table might not be easy as it is quite popular and reservations must be made well in advance.

Oak Restaurant

Address: Hoogstraat 167/001, 9000 Ghent

Website: Oak Restaurant

Opening hours: Tue - Fri: 12pm - 1:30pm, 7pm - 8:30pm; Sat: 12pm - 1:30pm (closed on Sun)

20. Sample local Belgian beers at Dulle Griet

This unique tavern with a medieval theme derives its name from the 15th-century cannon located nearby. With over 500 different varieties of beer available, you are bound to find something you like. Don’t forget to swap one of your shoes for one of their beers served in a boot-shaped glass! Don’t worry, you will get your shoe back soon after you are done with your drink. They also offer Trappist beer tastings and you can ask them about details before heading to the tavern.

Dulle Griet

Address: Vrijdagmarkt 50, 9000 Ghent

Website: Dulle Griet

Opening hours: Mon - 4:30pm - 1am; Tue - Sat: 12pm - 1am; Sun: 12pm - 7:30pm

21. Enjoy a picnic at Graslei and Korenlei

These two main quays of the city are ideal places to relax as you enjoy a picnic lunch watching life go by. Check out the boats on the water and the historic buildings that can be seen all around. You can also grab a bite to eat and get a refreshing drink at one of the numerous bars, pubs, and cafes that dot the area. Saint Michaels Bridge and the Castle of the Counts is just a short distance away from this area.

Graslei and Korenlei

Address: 9000 Ghent

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

Price: Free

22. Indulge in Belgian chocolates at Chocolaterie Luc Van Hoorebeke

Step into this store that specializes in producing excellent artisanal chocolates. Run by a father-son duo supported by their wives, this place has become synonymous with quality. Through a window that looks into the studio where the duo is usually at work, you can get a glimpse of the art of chocolate-making. Shop to your heart’s content for Belgian chocolate is definitely the best in the world.

Chocolaterie Luc Van Hoorebeke

Address: Sint-Baafsplein 15, 9000 Ghent

Website: Chocolaterie Luc Van Hoorebeke

Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)

Explore the highly underrated Ghent

This is a city that often does not get its due as a tourist destination. Once you have ticked off all the things to do in Ghent, Belgium, listed here, you might be pleasantly surprised to discover a few more additions of your own here. So, happy exploring!