Things to do in Ghent

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Ghent featuring a city and boating
Belfry of Ghent which includes a city, night scenes and modern architecture
Ghent showing a city and heritage architecture
Ghent which includes a city, modern architecture and night scenes
Ghent which includes a river or creek, a small town or village and a bridge

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 {86 fun activities in Ghent fun activities in Ghent}, and book with confidence knowing that we offer free cancellation and no added fees.


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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.
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Gravensteen showing a river or creek, a castle and street scenes

2. 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.
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Saint Bavo Cathedral showing a statue or sculpture and a city

3. 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.
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Ghent Town Hall featuring a sunset, an administrative buidling and street scenes

4. 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.
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St. Nicholas\' Church featuring heritage architecture, a church or cathedral and religious elements

5. 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.
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Belfry of Ghent which includes a city, night scenes and modern architecture

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!

 


 


Discover the most popular places to visit in Ghent

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Ghent

Ghent Town Hall featuring a sunset, an administrative buidling and street scenes

Ghent City Centre

5/5(94 area reviews)

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

Ghent City Centre
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Moscou

When in Moscou, you can plan a visit to Ghelamco Arena and Small Beguinage Ghent, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Moscou
"Feestlokaal van Vooruit" is a historic hall complex built in 1913. Originally it was the party and arts centre of the Ghent labour movement. Since 1982 it has been used by “Arts Centre Vooruit”. They organize numerous events in the 5 most important halls of the building such as debates, literature evenings, concerts, parties, stage performances, dance ...  #Ghent  #Trovember

Kunstenkwartier

4.5/5(6 area reviews)

Kunstenkwartier is noteworthy for its bars, and you can make a stop at top attractions like St. Peter's Square and Vooruit Arts Centre.

Kunstenkwartier
Gravensteen showing a river or creek, a castle and street scenes

Patershol

5/5(4 area reviews)

Patershol is noteworthy for its restaurants, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Gravensteen Castle and Old Fish Market.

Patershol
Citadel Park which includes a garden, a cascade and a lake or waterhole

Stationsbuurt Noord

4.5/5(21 area reviews)

Unique features of Stationsbuurt Noord include the historic sites and restaurants. Make a stop by Museum of Fine Arts or City Museum for Contemporary Art while you're exploring the area.

Stationsbuurt Noord
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Heilig Kerst

5/5(1 area review)

Travelers like the theaters in Heilig Kerst, and World of Kina: The Garden is a top attraction you might want to visit.

Heilig Kerst

 

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

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.

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