Before my Erasmus journey, I had never even heard of Ghent. I met my friend Bilqees at the Erasmus scholarship departure event. While she was heading to Ghent for a short study program, I was bound for Germany. However, Bilqees kindly invited me to visit her in Belgium. I ended up visiting Ghent in June during Ramadan, while my friend was fasting. It turned out to be a wonderful experience, and I’m grateful she allowed me to stay with her during that time. Ghent has since become one of my favourite cities in Europe. If you’re wondering what to do in Ghent or if it’s worth a visit, keep reading!

Day 1: Discover Ghent’s Vibrant Street Art

Ghent is a treasure trove for street art enthusiasts, and one of the top spots to explore is Graffitistraatje, officially known as Werregarenstraat. This alleyway is renowned for its ever-changing, vibrant, and bold street art. Locals often refer to it by its nickname, and the artwork here is constantly evolving. If you spot a piece you love, be sure to snap a photo right away, as it may be replaced by new art on your next visit.

 Buy a Souvenir in Ghent

During my visit to Ghent, I picked up a few memorable souvenirs. I bought postcards—one featuring a daytime view and another showcasing the city beautifully illuminated at night. Since I wasn’t comfortable wandering alone in the city center after dark and didn’t want to worry my friend Bilqees, I chose to stay in and enjoy the special experience of watching her break her fast. It was a unique and beautiful moment I hadn’t experienced before.

For my souvenirs, I chose a charming shot glass and a coin featuring the Belfry of Ghent. I was tempted to shop for clothes, but I decided to stick with these classic keepsakes. Ghent is known for its trendy shops, making it a great destination for finding stylish items and unique gifts.

Spot the City Pavilion in Ghent

Discover the City Pavilion in Ghent, a stunning modern timber market hall that blends effortlessly with the city’s historic charm. This contemporary gem complements the medieval architecture of the Belfry and the surrounding churches. Designed by renowned architects Robbrecht en Daem and Marie-José Van Hee, the City Pavilion exemplifies how modern architecture can enhance and integrate with historic settings, creating a harmonious fusion of old and new.

Admire the Royal Dutch Theater

When in Ghent, take time to admire the Royal Dutch Theater (Koninklijke Nederlandse Schouwburg). This elegant venue offers a diverse range of performances, from modern dramas to classic plays. The theater’s exterior features a classical façade adorned with a charming mural at the top. In front of the theater, you’ll find a statue of Apollo, which stands proudly in the center of the square, adding to the building’s majestic presence.

 

Explore Ghent’s Historic Center

In Ghent’s historic centre, you’ll find Saint Nicholas Church, Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, and the Belfry, all situated close to each other. Be sure to take plenty of photos of these iconic landmarks and explore their interiors. On my first day, I focused on capturing the facades, while the following day, I ventured inside each building. By the third day, I climbed the Belfry for breathtaking views of the city. Inside Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, you’ll discover the famous “Adoration of the Mystic Lamb,” a masterpiece painted in the 15th century by Hubert and Jan van Eyck. Ascending the Belfry offers another memorable experience in Ghent, with panoramic views of the city and a melodic bell that chimes periodically. Keep an eye out for the many dragon sculptures adorning the Belfry’s interior.

Indulge in Authentic Belgian Waffles

Belgian waffles are truly exceptional. While I make my own waffles at home, I can never quite replicate the authentic Belgian experience. The waffles I’m talking about are filled with melted brown sugar syrup, creating a sweet, fluffy treat that melts in your mouth. Whether enjoyed plain or with your favourite toppings, these waffles are a must-try when you’re in Belgium.

 Enjoy a Scenic Boat Trip

I’m a huge fan of boat trips, and the one along the Graslei in Ghent was absolutely perfect. With gorgeous weather and a bright blue sky, the experience was delightful. The tour guide, fluent in English and full of humour, provided fascinating insights about the area. The boat trip offers a unique view of many historic buildings along the river, making it a must-do activity in Ghent.

 Relax by the Graslei

Chilling by the Graslei is a beloved pastime for locals in Ghent. While waiting for our boat tour, Bilqees, Liesel, and I enjoyed the riverside, taking fun photos with colourful umbrellas that Bilqees found. The next day, I spent some quiet time by the river on my own. It’s a beautiful spot to unwind and reflect. Travel is not just about rushing from one attraction to another; sometimes, it’s about savouring the moment and the serene surroundings.

Explore City Hall

During my visit to Ghent, I checked out City Hall and snapped a few photos. The architecture is an intriguing blend of Gothic and Italian styles. While it might seem unusual, I think the mix works wonderfully, creating a unique visual appeal.

Discover De Krook

De Krook is a sleek, modern building that houses a public library. As a book lover, I couldn’t resist taking photos, even though I didn’t know much about it at the time. I’ve since learned that De Krook has played a significant role in rejuvenating Ghent and revitalising the surrounding area.

Day 2: Get Another Waffle

In Ghent, indulging in a waffle should be part of your daily routine—they’re that delicious! Enjoy your waffle and then walk it off as you explore the city, where main attractions are conveniently close to each other. Ghent’s public transport system is integrated, reliable, and safe, making it easy to get around. If you’re a cycling enthusiast, you’ll love Ghent; cyclists have right of way, and both pedestrians and motorists are mindful of this. The city boasts numerous bike lanes and secure places to park your bicycle.

 Cross the Bridge of Saint Michael’s Church

Saint Michael’s Church in Ghent is a stunning example of Gothic architecture, rich with intricate details. From the bridge, you can capture quintessential tourist photos featuring the scenic view of locals relaxing by the river. It’s a perfect spot to soak in the beauty and charm of Ghent.

Explore the Old Fish Market

Visit the Old Fish Market in Ghent, where you’ll find its captivating mythical statues and delightful architecture. This historic building is a testament to the city’s rich heritage and architectural charm.

Visit Gravensteen Castle

During my boat trip in Ghent, I had the chance to capture stunning photos of Gravensteen Castle, an impressive medieval fortress with a fascinating history. Once home to a torture chamber, the castle has seen many transformations, including a notable protest site where students rallied against rising beer prices. While a tour inside offers a deeper dive into its past, I chose to enjoy the castle’s exterior. The weather in Ghent was pleasantly temperate, a welcome change from the often dreary climate in Essen, Germany, where I was staying at the time.

Explore Patershol

Patershol is a charming district in Ghent known for its vibrant restaurants, unique galleries, and picturesque homes. Once considered a seedy area, Patershol has undergone a remarkable transformation. Today, it’s a must-visit spot that beautifully blends historic character with modern appeal.

Walk Down Jan Breydelstraat

During my visit, I stumbled upon Jan Breydelstraat, a street brimming with intriguing shops. I walked past Fallen Angels, a quirky store with a fantastic collection of vintage items, postcards, and posters. There’s also Blomenijs, an ice cream parlour that crafts its treats with floral ingredients. If you’re planning a splurge, consider booking in advance at the House of Elliot, a Michelin-acclaimed restaurant that stands out as one of Ghent’s top dining spots.

Explore De Vooruit

De Vooruit, once a socialist palace, now serves as a vibrant cultural hub in Ghent. This historic venue hosts a variety of events, including film screenings, dance classes, readings, and plays. You can also grab a bite to eat and enjoy a drink there. The building itself is quite picturesque. I stumbled upon it during one of my aimless walks around the city—sometimes the best discoveries are made by chance! While I did some research, I allowed plenty of room for spontaneity, which made the trip even more enjoyable.

Indulge in Belgian Fries

Although my South African friends didn’t rave about Belgian food, I was curious after researching local specialties. I imagined dishes like chicken stew or mussels with fries would be similar to Capetonian cuisine. Luckily, I ran into Liesel at St. Peter’s Plein, and she took me to a quaint shop specializing in fries. Belgians take their fries seriously—so much so that they even campaigned for them to receive world heritage status! These fries are cooked in animal fat and topped with a variety of sauces. I opted for the rich Belgian brown sauce, which added a meaty flavor to the crispy, salty fries. Despite usually avoiding sauces, this warm and flavorful topping was an exception. Although I can’t recall the name of the shop, you’ll find many excellent places throughout Ghent where you can enjoy this quintessential Belgian treat.

Try a Belgian Beer

I’m usually not a fan of beer, except for a few standout choices. I enjoy Guinness, which surprises many of my friends in South Africa, and Flying Fish, with its lemon infusion akin to Radler. But the real gem for me is Belgian Kriek. This fruity beer, with its sour cherry flavour, is light and deceptively easy to drink, which might explain why some people end up having too much. I was so enamored with Kriek that I hunted it down at bars and liquor stores in Cape Town. I finally found a close match at Beer House on Long Street, and I’m thrilled to have it available locally now. Even though you don’t need to travel to Belgium to enjoy it, passing through Antwerp on the train made me long to visit. The train station is breathtaking, even from the window of a stationary bus.

 

Day 3 in Ghent: Visit a Local Market

On my third and final day in Ghent, I stumbled upon a book market held at one of the churches—I can’t recall which one exactly. As a book lover, I couldn’t resist exploring. Despite knowing that most books would likely be in Flemish (Belgium’s primary language, alongside French), I was pleasantly surprised to find an English thriller novel. Originally priced at €5, I managed to snag it for just €2, thanks to the kind market worker who gave me a discount. Ghent is also renowned for its vegetable and flower markets, so if you’re planning an extended stay, be sure to check them out.

Explore the Abbey Ruins

Saint Bravo’s Abbey, now a picturesque ruin enveloped in greenery, is a hidden gem in Ghent. Once an important religious site, it’s now a delightful free spot for picnics. During my visit on a Saturday morning, I was the only tourist there, enjoying the serene atmosphere while locals curiously watched me take photos. The abbey ruins are located where the River Leie and the River Scheldt meet, and the city has even planted a small vineyard in remembrance of the monks who once made their own wine here. If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience in Ghent, the Abbey ruins are a must-see.

Saint Peter’s Abbey

Saint Peter’s Abbey is located near the Abbey ruins, making it an easy addition to your itinerary. I visited the abbey and took some photos before strolling back to Bilqees’s dorm along the riverside. The peaceful walk was a pleasant surprise, as there were very few people around, allowing me to enjoy the tranquil scenery and reflect on my time in Ghent.

Mall Visit: A Delicious Croissant Adventure

On my visit to the mall in Ghent, I followed Bilqees’s recommendation and grabbed a croissant from Pancos. I enjoyed it while it was still warm, and let me tell you, it was absolutely delicious. Flaky, buttery, and utterly marvellous, this croissant was a highlight of my trip. As I savoured each bite, I couldn’t help but think how tempting it would be to live in Ghent, surrounded by such irresistible food. I’m grateful I don’t live there—otherwise, I’d likely be packing on the pounds from all the delectable treats!

 Buy Belgian Chocolate

No trip to Ghent would be complete without indulging in some high-quality Belgian chocolate. I picked up a few pieces to take back to Germany, savouring them slowly because, let’s be honest, Belgian chocolate is pricey. I chose to buy from Luc Van Hoorebeke, drawn in by the store’s charming appearance. To my delight, I later discovered that it’s a renowned chocolatier. If you’re interested in top-tier Belgian chocolate, check out Luc Van Hoorebeke for an exceptional experience: Luc Van Hoorebeke Chocolates.

 Visit the Belfry of Ghent

The Belfry of Ghent stands at an impressive 91 meters tall, making it the tallest medieval tower in Belgium. As one of three historic towers overlooking Ghent’s old city center, it holds the distinction of being a UNESCO World Heritage site. The panoramic view from the top is breathtaking, and the bells produce a melodic tune, a delightful departure from the usual bell chimes. During my visit on the final day of my trip, the staff were intrigued to learn that I was from South Africa. They were incredibly friendly and helpful. With numerous vantage points for photography, the Belfry offers a fantastic opportunity to capture stunning images of Ghent.

 Visit the Pepper Bus Tower

The Pepper Bus is a charming remnant of Ghent’s medieval city wall, dating back to the 16th century. This small watchtower, named for its pepper canister-like shape, offers a glimpse into the city’s history. Despite its modest size, it’s a notable piece of Ghent’s architectural heritage. There was once a dispute between the city and the region over who should restore the tower, adding to its historical intrigue. While it may not be a major attraction, it’s worth a visit if you’re in the area, especially since it’s conveniently located near the university dorms. I stumbled upon it while exploring and managed to decode the Flemish sign with a bit of Google help.

 

More Information:

Explore more about Ghent with these resources:

• The Coolest Neighborhoods in Ghent
• Visit Gent – See & Do
• The Crazy Tourist’s 15 Best Things to Do in Ghent
• Top Museums to Visit in Ghent

If you have extra time and budget, Ghent’s museums are definitely worth a visit. During my trip in June, I preferred exploring the city outdoors, but these links will help you discover more about Ghent’s rich museum scene and other attractions. Thanks for reading, and feel free to share your comments.

Happy travels!