Ghent, a Belgian city often overlooked, is gaining attention as a quieter alternative to Bruges, offering a rich medieval heritage and vibrant contemporary culture. Its beautifully preserved historic centre, lively canals, and thriving student community create an atmosphere that feels both timeless and energetic.
Medieval Marvels and Scenic Canals
Entering Ghent feels like travelling through time, with an abundance of beautifully preserved medieval structures. Overlooking its picturesque canals, Gravensteen Castle offers a fascinating journey back to the Middle Ages. Visitors can explore its imposing stone walls, towering battlements, and centuries-old rooms, discovering what life was like inside one of Europe's best-preserved medieval fortresses.
Constructed in 1180 by Philip of Alsace, Count of Flanders, the castle was built as both a powerful symbol of authority and a defensive stronghold. Gravensteen means "Castle of the Counts," a fitting title for a fortress that once served as the seat of the Counts of Flanders. Tourists can wander through its ramparts and underground chambers while discovering stories of medieval warriors and aristocracy.
Exploring by Boat, Foot, or Bike
One of the finest ways to appreciate Ghent's charm is by embarking on a relaxing boat trip along its delightful canals. Drift past historic structures and beneath attractive bridges while taking in the city's architectural treasures from a distinctive vantage point. Visitors can also discover Ghent's pedestrian-friendly streets on foot or by bicycle, minimising their carbon footprint while soaking up the city's distinctive atmosphere.
Culinary Delights and Local Flavours
No trip to Ghent would be truly complete without savouring its culinary favourites. From classic Belgian waffles and chocolate to rich Flemish stews and delectable seafood dishes, Ghent presents a mouth-watering range of gastronomic adventures to delight every taste. Visitors can enjoy al fresco dining at delightful canal-side cafes or taste local specialities at intimate taverns nestled along cobblestone streets.
Practical Travel Tips
Ghent is widely regarded as one of Belgium's most rewarding city breaks. While it shares many of Bruges' historic charms, its thriving local culture and more relaxed pace make it a favourite for travellers looking to experience an authentic Belgian city. Most visitors will find that two to three days is enough to explore Ghent's main attractions while leaving plenty of time to wander its waterfront, relax in its cafés, and soak up the city's lively evening atmosphere. Its central location also makes it an ideal base for day trips to Brussels, Bruges, and Antwerp.
Getting to Ghent is relatively straightforward, though there are no direct flights to the city as it lacks its own airport. Most travellers from the UK fly to Brussels Airport, then take a train to Ghent. Typical flight times include: London to Brussels around one hour to one hour 15 minutes, Manchester to Brussels around one hour 20 minutes, Birmingham to Brussels around one hour 15 minutes, and Edinburgh to Brussels around one hour 40 minutes. From Brussels Airport, it's approximately 15–20 minutes by train to Brussels city centre (if changing there) or 55–70 minutes by direct train to Ghent-Sint-Pieters station, depending on the service.
