Things to do in Ghent

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

A canal with boats, historic buildings, and a bridge.
A historic tower with a spire, a modern building with a wooden facade, and a cobblestone square with outdoor seating.
A canal with a white boat, historic buildings, and outdoor seating areas.
A modern architectural structure with illuminated wooden panels and a view of historic buildings in the background.
A canal with historic buildings, a bridge, and a boat.

Ghent Attractions

Not sure how to keep busy in Ghent? There's no need to worry. We've come up with some excellent suggestions for you. Great food, an intriguing history and spectacular attractions — this vibrant city offers them all.

Discover what makes Ghent tick with some of the most popular tours & day trips. Browse through our top {97 fun activities in Ghent fun activities in Ghent}, and book with confidence knowing that we offer free cancellation and no added fees.

Things to do

Ghent: Museum of Fine Arts Entry Ticket

Ghent: Museum of Fine Arts Entry Ticket

$17
per adult
Ghent: Museum of Fine Arts Entry Ticket
Ghent: 50-Minute Medieval Center Guided Boat Trip

Ghent: 50-Minute Medieval Center Guided Boat Trip

$13
per adult
86% of travellers recommend
Ghent: 50-Minute Medieval Center Guided Boat Trip
Lights, buzzers, action! Experience the thrill of a live TV game show!

TV like Ultimate Quiz Experience in Ghent

$29
per adult
TV like Ultimate Quiz Experience in Ghent
Guided Boat Trip in Ghent

Guided Boat Trip in Ghent

$13
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Guided Boat Trip in Ghent
Bruges and Ghent Day Tour from Brussels

Bruges and Ghent Day Tour from Brussels

$111
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Bruges and Ghent Day Tour from Brussels
Ghent Walking Tour with Optional Add on Boat and Beer

Ghent Walking Tour with Optional Add on Boat and Beer

$17
per adult
Ghent Walking Tour with Optional Add on Boat and Beer
Belgian Hidden Architectural Gem

Belgian Hidden Architectural Gem

$18
per adult
Belgian Hidden Architectural Gem
See all activities in Ghent
  • find price illustration

    Explore activities

    Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.
  • calendar shield illustration

    Book with ease

    Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    One Key members save % or more on select activities, hotels, cars and vacation rentals.
    Learn about One Key

Ghent must see attractions

1. Gravensteen Castle

Gravensteen, also known as the “Castle of the Count,” is one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions. The castle is a characteristic medieval fortress complete with twisting staircases, a dungeon surrounded by high walls and a protective moat. In addition to being an interesting example of centuries-old architecture, the restored castle houses several museum collections. Enjoy gorgeous views over the city.
Learn more
A historic castle with a moat, a bridge, and a canal reflecting the structure.

2. Ghent Town Hall

Ghent Town Hall, known locally as Stadhuis, is an interesting mishmash of architectural styles. A witness to more than 400 years of Ghent’s history, the building is a compelling collage of art and architecture, spanning the 15th to the 20th centuries. See the town hall, which continues to serve as an important civic center today, now housing the offices of city officials.
Learn more
A historic building with ornate architecture, a clock tower, and flags.

3. Saint Bavo Cathedral

Saint-Bavo’s Cathedral is among the most well-known landmarks in Ghent. In this towering cathedral see a stunning collection of centuries-old sculptures, religious artifacts and paintings, such as the famous Ghent Altarpiece, a polyptych panel painting with a rather unlucky history.
Learn more
A historic square with a statue of a religious scene, surrounded by old buildings and a tall church tower.

4. Belfry of Ghent

The Belfry of Ghent is one of three medieval towers that characterize the old city center. Together with Saint-Bavo’s Cathedral and St. Nicholas' Church, the belfry is among the most recognizable city landmarks. Explore its lavishly decorated interior and climb to the top, where you’ll see some of the most spectacular views in the city.
Learn more
A historic tower with a spire, a modern building with a wooden facade, and a cobblestone square with outdoor seating.

5. St. Nicholas' Church

Rising prominently over Ghent’s historic city center, St. Nicholas’ Church is one of the famous “Three Towers of Ghent.” With its grand scale and elaborate design, St. Nicholas' Church looks more like a cathedral than a church. Observe its remarkable Scheldt Gothic architecture and careful restoration work that disguises its somewhat turbulent history.
Learn more
A historic cathedral with tall spires, a bustling street with cafes, and a tram in the background.

Recommended things to do in Ghent

Number of things to do
97
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Historical Walking Tour: Legends of Gent: $4
Top 5 things to do
Under $25
With kids

What to do in Ghent

Free Things to Do in Ghent

Heading to Ghent on a budget? The following can be experienced for zip.

Ghent Town Hall - If you'd like to explore the region's history through its landmarks, jot this one down on your travel itinerary.

Achtersikkel - Wander the sidewalks and appreciate the charm and character of this favorite local haunt.

Blaarmeersen Recreation Area - Shut your eyes and take a deep breath — nothing tops being close to the water for some peace and relaxation.

Ghent Christmas Market - Well known among local residents, this site is worth visiting.

Saint Bavo Cathedral - Inject a bit of spirituality into your getaway by checking out this holy site.

Baudelo Park - Recharge your mind, body and soul by spending time with Mother Nature.

Things to Do in Ghent with Kids

There's fun for the whole family no matter where you go in Ghent. Here are a few family friendly experiences you can do together that'll make your vacation a blast:

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Ghent? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Stay near popular Ghent attractions

A historic castle with a moat, a bridge, and a canal reflecting the structure.

Gravensteen Castle

9.0/10 (1,048 reviews)
This imposing 12th-century fortress offers a fascinating glimpse into medieval Flanders with its ramparts and torture chamber. Climb to the top for panoramic views of Ghent's historic center.
See properties

Where to stay in Ghent

Find the best Ghent areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Ghent
Learn more about Ghent
A historic castle with a moat, a bridge, and a canal reflecting the structure.

Patershol

Patershol is noteworthy for its restaurants, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Gravensteen Castle and House of Alijn.

A historic cityscape with a prominent clock tower and a river reflecting the buildings.

Graslei and Korenlei

While visiting Graslei and Korenlei, you might make a stop by sights like Korenmarkt Square and St. Michael's Bridge.

A historic stone tower with arched windows and a flag.

Kunstenkwartier

Kunstenkwartier is noteworthy for its bars, and you can make a stop at top attractions like World of Kina and Grand Beguinage St Elisabeth.

A historic building with ornate architecture, a clock tower, and flags.

Ghent City Centre

Historic sites, cafes, and museums are some highlights of Ghent City Centre. Make a stop by Belfry of Ghent or St. Nicholas' Church while you're exploring.

A historic castle surrounded by a dense urban area with traditional European architecture.

Elisabethbegijnhof

When in Elisabethbegijnhof, you can plan a visit to Gravensteen Castle and St. Michael's Bridge, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Ghent

An aerial view of a river winding through a rural landscape with fields and houses.

Sint-Martens-Latem

A river meandering through green fields, with a town in the distance and a clear blue sky.

Deinze

A calm lake with a tower and a small building on the shore.

Melle

A large tree with thick branches and green leaves against a clear blue sky.

Wachtebeke

A calm lake with reflections of trees and sky, surrounded by grassy banks and reeds.

Mariakerke

Frequently asked questions

Is Ghent worth visiting?
Whether you're planning to experience the cultural highlights and local charm or sample unique foods and venture into nature, there's no shortage of things to do in Ghent.
How do I spend a day in Ghent?
When you've checked off key attractions like Ooidonk Castle and Blaarmeersen Recreation Area, spend the rest of your day discovering Ghent's retail and food scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Ghent?
You can't go home without exploring Capitole Theatre, ranked the top tourist attraction in Ghent.
Is three days enough to stay in Ghent?
Three days in Ghent is enough to enjoy the city's major attractions. Many guests spend two days on average. Capitole Theatre, Blaarmeersen Recreation Area and Castle of Gerald the Devil are among the most popular sights. Want to experience more? Hang around a while longer to check off nearby hotspots such as Brussels.
Is Ghent a walkable city?
Some top attractions in Ghent, like Capitole Theatre and Blaarmeersen Recreation Area, are within walking distance. You can also discover several of the city's popular neighborhoods on foot. Just 0.1 miles from central Ghent is Ghent City Centre and Stationsbuurt Noord is 1 mile away.
What are some activities to do in Ghent with kids?
Deciding what to do in Ghent with kids is easier than ever. Whether you're vacationing with toddlers or teenagers, there's no shortage of family-friendly attractions to keep everyone happy here.

What to do in Ghent for adults?
There are lots of things to do in Ghent, with entertainment for adults of all ages. Round off your day with a visit to Glass Alley or The Cottage.
Are there free things to do in Ghent?
In Ghent, Blaarmeersen Recreation Area is a top spot for anyone wanting to enjoy the city without opening their wallet. Also, wander around the local parks and neighborhoods, and ask for ideas from a local tour guide. It's a great way to discover the best free things to do in Ghent.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia