Ghent is the third largest and one of the oldest cities in Belgium. With its well preserved historical center, canals and medieval architecture Ghent is a must see destination when travelling in Belgium. Thanks to its central location – less than an hour by train or car from Brussels, Bruges, or Antwerp – and its walkable historic center, Ghent is perfect for a day trip. Read on to discover what to see and do in Ghent in one day.
We’ve visited Ghent a few times now, and it all started with a spontaneous stop on our way from the Netherlands to Bruges. During the first visit, we only had a few hours to explore Ghent, but it completely won us over with its medieval streets, the cozy canal side cafes and the nice atmosphere. We knew we had to return for a longer visit next time, and we’ve been back since to see more of this beautiful city.
If you’re arriving in Ghent by car (as we often did), it’s best to park outside the old town and explore the historic center on foot.
When arriving by train from Brussels or Bruges, you’ll arrive at Gent-Sint-Pieters station. From there, you’re close to several popular museums in Ghent – such as the Ghent City Museum or the Museum of Fine Arts – making it easy to start your visit with a bit of culture. Alternatively, you can hop on a tram to reach the historic city center or enjoy a 30-minute walk through the city.
Friday Market (Vrijdagmarkt) Square
The first time we visited Ghent, we arrived by car and parked near Vrijdagmarkt, where we began our walk through the city.
Vrijdagmarkt (which translates to “Friday Market” in English) is a spacious square in the heart of Ghent. At its center stands a statue of Jacob van Artevelde, pointing toward England it symbolizes his 14th-century efforts to align Ghent with the English for trade during the Hundred Years’ War.
The square is framed by historical buildings showcasing classic Belgian architecture, with their signature triangular stepped gable roofs adding to the charm.
If you arrive early on a Friday or Saturday, you’ll catch the market at Vrijdagmarkt. If you enjoy browsing local stalls and a bit of shopping, be sure to visit before 12 pm. However, if you’re more interested in the architecture or hoping to take unobstructed photos, it’s best to come after the market wraps up – once the stalls are cleared.
From Vrijdagmarkt, head toward the Zuivelbrugstraat Bridge to cross the Leie River. Then follow Kraanlei Street, taking time to admire the beautiful historical buildings along the way, until you reach one of Ghent’s most iconic landmarks – the Gravensteen Castle.
Gravensteen (Castle of the Counts)
The Gravensteen is a medieval castle in Ghent with origins dating back to the 12th century. Inside, you’ll find a museum where you can explore the castle’s history, walk along the fortified walls, and admire its impressive stone halls and interior spaces.
It’s a great spot to visit with kids. There’s plenty to capture their imagination, from the exhibits and weaponry to the inner garden and even a real torture chamber. With the help of an audio guide, they can learn more about everything they see as they explore the castle’s rooms and ramparts.
After visiting the castle, cross the Leie River again via Vleeshuisbrug bridge. From there, you can admire the medieval structure of the Groot Vleeshuis (Great Butcher’s Hall) – an impressive building with a rich history tied to Ghent’s centuries-old meat trade.
Graslei and Korenlei
Graslei and Korenlei, the picturesque quays along the Leie River, are among the most popular spots in Ghent – loved by locals and visitors alike for their charm and vibrant atmosphere.
Korenlei (on the left) and Graslei (on the right bank) were once vital parts of the city’s medieval port. Located in the very heart of the old city it’s a nice place for a walk, to relax at one of the cafes and to admire historic facades of the buildings that line the Graslei.
Some of the boat tours depart from Graslei and Korenlei, making them a great option if you prefer less walking and a more leisurely experience with a guided view of the city. A boat trip is also a great choice when traveling with children. It gives the little ones (and you) a chance to rest while still enjoying the city sights from the water.
Staying the night in Ghent is a great idea, especially if you want to see Graslei and Korenlei after dark. In the evening, the day-trippers have left, the buildings are beautifully lit, and the whole area feels calm and magical. A walk by the river at night shows a different side of the city – peaceful, romantic, and full of charm.
St. Michael’s Bridge and St. Michael’s Church
Head up to St. Michael’s Bridge (Sint-Michielsbrug) and enjoy the 360-degree views right in the heart of the old town. From the top, you’ll see the beautiful Graslei and Korenlei quays, as well as the impressive St. Michael’s Church (Sint-Michielskerk) and St. Nicholas Church (Sint-Niklaaskerk). It’s a spot you definitely shouldn’t skip.
Visit Sint-Michielskerk (Saint Michael’s Church), the historic landmark located right next to Sint-Michielsbrug. Step inside to admire paintings and sculptures by well-known artists. Entry to the church is free, and it’s definitely worth taking the time to explore.
Korenmarkt, Oud Postgebouw and Sint-Niklaaskerk
Next on our Ghent in One Day itinerary is Korenmarkt, a central square surrounded by beautiful historic buildings, cafés, and restaurants.
One standout is the Old Post Office (Oud Postgebouw), an eye-catching building with neo-Gothic architecture and a richly decorated facade. Inside, on the ground floor, you’ll find Post Plaza – a modern shopping mall set within this elegant historical setting.
Right next to Korenmarkt, you’ll find St. Nicholas Church (Sint-Niklaaskerk) one of the oldest churches in Ghent. Its impressive Gothic architecture and central location make it a key landmark in the city’s historic skyline.
Ghent City Hall (Stadhuis)
Another beautiful building in Ghent is the City Hall, a complex made up of historical structures built in different architectural styles. One section of the Stadhuis features Renaissance design, while another showcases Gothic elements.
You can visit the City Hall with a guided tour, which must be booked in advance through the official Historische Huizen Ghent website. Tours are available in several languages and give you access to some of the building’s most impressive rooms – including the Wedding Chapel and richly decorated halls that aren’t open to the general public.
You’ll also pass by the City Pavilion (Stadshal) on your way from Saint Nicholas’ Church to the City Hall. It’s a rather unusual modern structure that’s hard to miss. Honestly, I couldn’t leave it out of this post, even if I don’t find it particularly beautiful or historical. 🙂
Belfry of Ghent
The Belfry of Ghent (or Het Belfort van Gent) rises right in the center of the old town and is impossible to miss. Standing 91 meters tall, it’s the highest belfry in Belgium and one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Built between 1313 and 1380, the tower once served as a watchtower and a symbol of Ghent’s independence.
Today, there a small museum inside and visitors can even climb to the top (or take the lift partway) for panoramic views over Ghent.
St. Bavo’s Cathedral
It’s amazing how many beautiful historical buildings and towers fill the old part of Ghent. Just across Sint-Baafsplein from the Belfry stands St Bavo’s Cathedral (or Sint-Baafs Cathedral), only a few meters shorter with its Gothic tower reaching 89 meters.
Inside St Bavo’s cathedral you will find the Ghent’s Altarpiece – a 15th century masterpiece by Belgian artists Hubert and Jan van Eyck.
Keep walking past St Bavo’s Cathedral and you’ll come across the Monument of the Van Eyck Brothers, a tribute to the artists behind the world-famous Ghent Altarpiece. The statue was unveiled in 1913 during the World Expo in Ghent and honors Hubert and Jan van Eyck.
Kasteel Geeraard de Duivel
Not too far from St Bavo’s Cathedral is another historical landmark – Kasteel Geeraard de Duivel, also known as the Castle of Gerald the Devil. This 13th century building has a rather grim appearance and, unsurprisingly, was once used as a prison.
Once you reach Kasteel Geeraard and the Bisschoppelijk Seminarie across the canal, you can turn back, as it marks the edge of the old town.
Achtersikkel Courtyard
On the way back to the town center, take a short detour to visit Achtersikkel – a small, charming courtyard surrounded by 14th and 15th century buildings and a round tower. Today, it’s home to a music academy, but the courtyard itself remains open to the public and is free to explore.
Museums
If you have some time to spare and would like to visit one of the museums in Ghent, you’re in luck – there are few museums in the old town or a short walk away from the historic center. You can pick one that suits your interests.
For an overview of Ghent’s story, STAM – the Ghent City Museum is a great place to start. Housed in a former abbey, it has interactive exhibits and multimedia to learn about the city from medieval times to today.
If you’re more curious about everyday life, Huis van Alijn dives into 20th-century traditions and rituals.
For a peek into aristocratic life, Huis Arnold Vander Haeghen and Hotel d’Hane-Steenhuyse showcase elegant salons, period furniture, and even the study of Nobel Prize winner Maurice Maeterlinck.
The Museum of Industry brings Ghent’s industrial heritage to life with working machines and hands-on exhibits.
If you’re visiting with kids, Kina: Huis is a natural history museum filled with fossils, birds, and interactive displays that are fun and educational for both children and adults.
Dinner in the Old Town
Wrap up your day in Ghent with dinner at one of the many cafés or restaurants in the old town.
If you’re traveling with children, trying traditional Belgian waffles topped with chocolate syrup is an absolute must!
For adults – especially those who enjoy good beer – a visit to a local pub to try some of Belgium’s finest brews is an essential part of the Ghent experience. I’m not a beer lover myself, but Yuriy and my dad had a great time sampling a wide variety of beers at a pub in Botermarkt.
Ghent at Night
If you’re staying the night in Ghent, be sure to take an evening walk through the old town – its lit streets and buildings create a truly magical atmosphere.
When we last visited Ghent, we stayed overnight just so we could enjoy the city after dark, and it was absolutely worth it.
In the morning, you can travel to Brussels, Bruges or Antwerp – all of them are less than an hour away and easy to reach by train.
Read next my post on How to Spend a Day in Antwerp.
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I was supposed to go to Ghent last year, but you know. I’m going to bookmark this post for later when I (hopefully) go next year.
I had plans of visiting Ghent and Bruges this summer, but I didn’t make it. I’ll have to work something out for 2022. Ghent lookes absolutely lovely, a fairy-tale place.
I’m bookmarking this for when I can make Ghent a reality. I see so many similarities to Bruges which I love. No doubt Ghent would fall into the same category. Though that town hall is weird.
For some reason, Ghent doesn’t get the press other Belgian cities do and while we’re guilty of missing it, the architecture, chocolate on waffles, and beers have us signed up and ready to go!
We didn’t make it to Ghent when we visited Belgium. I’d love to return to see it though. Gravensteen would be top of my list of places to see in Ghent.
The question is can I do the waffles WITH the beer? Great post. I am both hungry and motivated to see Ghent!
Absolutely! First enjoy the beer, then have waffles for dessert, and then go for a walk in the city to compensate for all the calories! 🙂
Ghent looks like a beautiful town with so much to see. I’d like to wander around the town admiring the architecture. At some point, I’d probably also take that boat ride to give my feet a rest while continuing to soak in the scenery. Then I’d definitely stop for some Belgian waffles and beer. Yum!
Lovely Town Gwent seems, some beautiful architecture i would live to see especially after a few Belgian beers
What a lovely place with such beautiful architecture – although the pavillion looks a bit odd haha. I would quite spend a day in enjoying the sights of Ghent!
I love seeing your fascinating photos of Ghent’s historical architecture. I would love to see the entire Gravensteen Castle and take a boat tour through the city. Since I’m addicted to chocolate I couldn’t go without watching and trying some.