When travelers think of Belgium, they usually think of Brussels for business, or Bruges for medieval romance. But sitting perfectly between the two is Ghent—a city that boasts all the historical charm of Bruges, but with a vibrant, lived-in, university-town atmosphere.
Ghent is a city of canals, cobblestones, and castles, but it doesn't feel like a museum. It feels young, energetic, and wildly underrated.
Top Sights in Ghent
- Gravensteen (Castle of the Counts): A massive, imposing medieval fortress sitting right in the center of the city. The audio guide is famously hilarious and informative.
- Graslei and Korenlei: These two streets line the main canal in the city center and feature stunning guild houses. Sitting here with a Belgian beer on a summer evening is perfection.
- The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb: Housed in St. Bavo's Cathedral, this 15th-century masterpiece by the Van Eyck brothers is one of the most important paintings in European history.
- Patershol: The medieval culinary heart of the city. Its winding cobblestone streets are packed with incredible restaurants serving everything from traditional Flemish stew to high-end global cuisine.
BelgiumEuropeCity Breaks
Thomas Van Der Berg
Verified ExpertTravel Writer & Expert
Sheraz is a passionate world traveler and the founder of Travel Guides Finder. With years of experience exploring diverse cultures, tasting authentic cuisines, and navigating complex visa requirements, he curates expert guides to help you travel smarter and safer.
