10 Places To Visit in Ghent

Ghent is a beautiful city located in the Flemish region of Belgium. It’s a great place to visit for anyone looking for a unique and exciting cultural experience. With its stunning architecture, vibrant nightlife, and myriad of attractions, Ghent offers something for everyone. Here are 10 places you should definitely check out on your next visit.

1. Gravensteen Castle

Gravensteen Castle is one of the most iconic landmarks in Ghent. This medieval castle was built in 1180 and has been preserved over the centuries. Today, it serves as a museum, where visitors can explore its ancient rooms and learn about its history. There are also plenty of activities inside the castle, such as archery and falconry.

2. St. Bavo’s Cathedral

St. Bavo’s Cathedral is a stunning Gothic church located in the heart of Ghent. It is the home of the famous Ghent Altarpiece, a large and intricate masterpiece painted by the Van Eyck brothers in 1432. Visitors can also admire the beautiful stained glass windows and ornate sculptures that adorn the interior of the cathedral.

3. Korenmarkt

Korenmarkt is the main square in Ghent and the perfect place to people-watch and soak up the atmosphere. It’s also home to some of the city’s best restaurants and bars, which are great for a spot of lunch or dinner. In the summer months, the square is often filled with street performers, making it a great place to spend an afternoon.

4. Graslei and Korenlei

Graslei and Korenlei are two of the most picturesque canals in Ghent. The cobblestoned quayside is lined with traditional Dutch gabled houses, and it’s a great place to take a leisurely stroll and admire the view. On the weekends, the area is often filled with boats, creating a unique and charming atmosphere.

5. Design Museum Gent

Design Museum Gent is one of the best museums in Ghent. It’s dedicated to the history and development of design, from furniture to fashion. There are also several interactive exhibits, which make for a great day out for the whole family.

6. Graffiti Street Art

Graffiti is a big part of Ghent’s culture, and there are several streets in the city where you can find amazing street art. Street artist ROA is particularly well-known in Ghent, and his works can be seen all around the city. Take a stroll along the streets of Ghent and admire the vibrant artwork.

7. Vrijdagmarkt

Vrijdagmarkt is one of the oldest markets in Ghent and a great place to pick up souvenirs and local produce. Every Friday, the market square comes alive with vendors selling everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to handmade goods. It’s a great place to get a bargain and soak up the atmosphere.

8. Patershol

Patershol is one of the oldest and most charming neighborhoods in Ghent. It’s filled with quaint cobblestoned streets and traditional Dutch gabled houses. There are also several cafes and restaurants in this area, perfect for a spot of brunch or afternoon tea.

9. Graffiti Street Art Tours

If you want to learn more about the graffiti scene in Ghent, then a graffiti street art tour is a great way to do it. These tours will take you to some of the most iconic spots in Ghent, and you’ll get to meet some of the local street artists and learn more about their work.

10. St. Nicholas Church

St. Nicholas Church is a beautiful Gothic church located in the center of Ghent. Its impressive spire towers over the city and can be seen from miles away. Inside the church, visitors can admire the stunning stained glass windows and ornate sculptures.

5 Places To Avoid in Ghent

Ghent is an amazing city with plenty of things to do and see. However, it’s important to be aware of the places you should avoid to ensure a safe and enjoyable stay. Here are 5 places you should avoid when visiting Ghent.

1. Red Light District

The red light district in Ghent is located in the east of the city and is best avoided. This area is known for its high crime rates and is not a safe place to be after dark. It’s also home to several brothels, which are best avoided.

2. Sint-Baafsplein

Sint-Baafsplein is a popular square in the center of Ghent, but it’s best to avoid the area at night. This square is known for its high levels of drug use and crime, so it’s best to avoid it after dark.

3. Citadel Park

Citadel Park is a large park located in the south of Ghent. Although it’s a great place to enjoy a peaceful stroll during the day, it’s best to avoid the area at night. The park is known for its high levels of crime, so it’s not a safe place to be after dark.

4. Groentenmarkt

Groentenmarkt is a popular market in Ghent, but it’s best to avoid it at night. This area is known for its high levels of drug use and crime, so it’s best to avoid it after dark.

5. Oude Beestenmarkt

Oude Beestenmarkt is a popular square in the center of Ghent, but it’s best to avoid the area at night. This square is known for its high levels of crime, so it’s best to avoid it after dark.