Located in the heart of Belgium, Ghent is a city where medieval charm meets vibrant modern culture. From cobblestone streets to towering Gothic architecture, the city offers travelers an unforgettable experience. Exploring Ghent’s best attractions is like stepping into a living storybook filled with castles, canals, and centuries-old churches.
Best Attractions in Ghent
Whether you’re admiring the stunning facades of the Gravensteen or strolling along the picturesque Graslei harbor, Ghent’s most popular attractions blend history with natural beauty. Art lovers will be captivated by the masterpieces inside St. Bavo’s Cathedral, while foodies can enjoy authentic Belgian flavors in cozy cafes. Ghent’s diverse range of attractions ensures that there is something for every traveler, from cultural landmarks to hidden gems.
As you explore these extraordinary attractions in Ghent, you will discover why the city stands out as one of the most captivating destinations in Europe. Planning your trip around Ghent’s top attractions guarantees a memorable adventure filled with history, art, and local charm. With so many incredible attractions to experience in Ghent, Ghent promises a trip you will never forget.
01. Friday Market Square
One of the oldest squares in Ghent, witness to many historical events: trade guild conflicts, executions and coronations. The weekly Friday market has been gathering here since the end of the 12th century; this event has long become an unshakable tradition. The square is surrounded by buildings from the 15th-19th centuries, in the center there is a monument dedicated to Jacob van Arteveld, the leader of the 14th-century anti-French uprising.
Address: Friday Market Square, Ghent, Belgium
Opening hours: 24/7
02. Ghent Town Hall
The city council building, which is a mixture of architectural styles. The facade is clearly divided into two parts of different eras. Here you can find elements of Gothic, Flemish Renaissance, Pseudo-Empire, Baroque. The town hall was built in the first half of the 16th century on the site of the former house of one of the trade guilds. In the 19th century, several reconstructions were carried out, including a completely renovated interior.
Address: City Hall, Ghent, Belgium
Opening hours: 09:00 - 05:00
03. Ghent Post Office
An architectural monument of the late 19th - early 20th centuries, designed by L. Cloquet in the neo-Renaissance and neo-Gothic styles. The facade is decorated with symbolic statues depicting Belgium, Flanders and Wallonia. The smaller statues are the provinces of Belgium. A traditional clock tower with a pointed spire is located on top of the post office building. The building currently houses a commercial center.
Address: Grote Worth Street, 16, Ghent, Belgium
Opening hours: 09:00 - 18:00
04. Belfry Tower
In the distant Middle Ages, the tower performed an important function of warning the population in case of the approach of enemy troops to the city walls, a fire or other disasters. When such an event occurred, a large alarm bell began to ring. The tower was built in the XIV century, over time it became a symbol of the freedom of the citizens of Ghent. At one time, a document regarding the city's benefits was kept in the tower.
Address: Belfry Tower, Ghent, Belgium
Opening hours: 10:00 - 18:00
05. Castle of the Counts of Flanders
An ancient fortified castle of the 12th century, one of the most spectacular attractions in Belgium. The building is perfectly preserved and has survived to this day. The rulers of Flanders used the castle as a defensive fortress, residence and mint. Inside the building there is a museum of weapons, where magnificent medieval swords, crossbows, daggers, armor, pistols are exhibited.
Address: Gravensteen Castle, Ghent, Belgium
Opening hours: 10:00 - 18:00
06. Gerard the Devil's Castle
An ancient dark castle that belonged to one of the sons of the Count of Ghent. According to legend, this character killed several of his wives, for which he was nicknamed "the Devil". The complex was built in the 13th century in a monumental Romanesque style, but was subsequently rebuilt several times, due to which the building later acquired a Gothic appearance. Over the centuries, a monastery, an asylum, an orphanage, a prison and a city archive were located on the grounds of the castle.
Address: Gerard the Devil's Castle, Ghent, Belgium
07. Saint Bavo's Cathedral
Ghent Cathedral, belonging to the Roman Catholic Diocese. On the site of the current temple, there was a wooden church in the 10th century, later in the 11th century it was rebuilt in the Romanesque style, and from the 14th century in the Gothic style. The most famous monument of the temple is the Ghent Altarpiece, painted by the recognized masters of the early Flemish Renaissance - the Van Eyck brothers.
Address: St. Bavo's Cathedral, Ghent, Belgium
Opening hours: 08:00 - 18:00
08. Church of St. Nicholas
The temple is one of the oldest religious buildings in Ghent. Its history began in the 12th century. The main architectural style of the building is Scheldt Gothic, which is distinguished by the use of a special type of blue-gray stone. The church of St. Nicholas was owned by the powerful merchant guild of Ghent. But this could not save it from partial destruction during the iconoclastic uprising of 1566.
Address: St. Nicholas Church, Ghent, Belgium
Opening hours: 09:00 - 17:00
09. St. Michael's Church and Bridge
A magnificent 15th-century Gothic church located in a quiet central area of Ghent. The temple was built over several centuries until 1828. It was restored after the First World War. The picturesque St. Michael's Bridge runs from the church to the opposite side of the Lys River. It offers stunning views of the architectural splendor of the city's cathedral, towers and surrounding medieval streets.
Address: St. Michael's Church and Bridge, Ghent, Belgium
Opening hours: 09:00 - 18:00
10. Museum of Fine Arts
A museum with a rich and diverse collection. It occupies a very worthy place in the galaxy of Belgian art galleries. The basis of the museum's collection was works of art confiscated from the Jesuit Order and other religious organizations. Later, the French took many exhibits to Paris. Ghent has not yet been able to return an impressive part of the exhibits. The museum was opened to visitors in 1904, and after the First World War, it began operating in 1921. Address: Olvengracht Street, 9, Ghent, Belgium
Opening hours: 10:00 - 5:00
11. Museum of Modern Art of the City (S.M.A.K.)
The museum was organized in 1999. He quickly gained popularity for his bold provocative exhibitions and events. The permanent exhibition presents the works of E. Warhol, F. Bacon, K. Appel, J. Buis and other famous artists of our time. Temporary exhibitions are often held in the area, where exhibits from other trendy contemporary art galleries are brought in.
Address: Olvengracht Street, 6, Ghent, Belgium
Opening hours: 10:00 - 18:00
12. Museum of Art, Labor and Textiles
The museum's collection is housed in the building of a former textile factory located in the central part of Ghent. The exhibits tell about the history of the development of local industry since 1750. Most of the exhibition is devoted to textiles, as in the 18th century Ghent had already become a major center for the production and processing of textiles. The museum exhibits looms, spinning wheels, machines and other equipment.
Address: Olvengracht Street, 15, Ghent, Belgium
Opening hours: 10:00 - 17:00
13. Complex of defensive structures
This complex is part of the city's 15th-century fortifications. It consists of two round towers, a stepped facade in the middle, and a bridge. After losing its defensive value, the Rabot was used as a conservatory, inn, and warehouse. Today, the complex is used for meetings, lectures, and seminars. Ghent residents simply call the sights "the three towers."
Address: Works Fortifications, Ghent, Belgium
14. Ghent-Sint-Pieters Station
The main railway station of Ghent, which grew from a small station. The modern building was built for the opening of the 1913 World's Fair. Trains leave from the station to all destinations in the country. The station is the second busiest in Belgium, so it is better to buy tickets in advance, otherwise there is a risk of not getting on the right train. Ghent-Sint-Pieters was restored and updated in 2007-2010.
Address: Ghent-Sint-Pieters Station, Ghent, Belgium
Opening hours: 24/7
15. Herb Street and Grain Street
The embankment of Ghent, located on the banks of the Lis River, forms a harmonious architectural complex. Historical buildings from the 17th-19th centuries have been preserved here. - Houses of the merchant guild, built in the Flemish Renaissance, Brabant Gothic, Baroque and neoclassical styles. Grass Street and Grain Street are popular places for tourists to walk. Many houses have restaurants with summer terraces. After a pleasant dinner, you can take a boat trip.
Address: Herb Street and Grain Street, Ghent, Belgium
Opening hours: 24/7
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Read more: Tourist Guideline
❓ FAQ – Ghent Attractions
1️⃣ What are the most famous attractions in Ghent?
The most famous attractions include Gravensteen, St. Bavo's Cathedral, and Grasse. These landmarks showcase the city's rich medieval history and stunning architecture.
2️⃣ Is Ghent worth a visit for tourists?
Yes, Ghent is absolutely worth a visit. The city offers a perfect mix of history, culture, canals, museums, and vibrant nightlife, making it one of the most picturesque destinations in Belgium.
3️⃣ How many days are enough to explore Ghent's attractions?
Two to three days are ideal to comfortably explore the main attractions, including museums, historical sites, and local neighborhoods.
4️⃣ What is the best time to visit Ghent?
The best time to visit Ghent is from April to October when the weather is pleasant and the outdoor attractions, canal walks, and festivals are in full swing.
5️⃣ Are there any free attractions in Ghent?
Yes, visitors can enjoy free attractions like wandering the historic city center, exploring the Graslein harbor, and visiting certain churches and public squares.
6️⃣ Is Ghent better than Bruges?
Both cities are beautiful, but Ghent is often considered less crowded and more authentic than Bruges, offering a more relaxed and local experience.
✅ Conclusion
Ultimately, Ghent is a charming European destination where history, culture, and modern life blend seamlessly. From the majestic Gravensteen to the artistic treasures inside St. Bavo’s Cathedral, the city offers an unforgettable journey through time. The picturesque beauty of the Graslei and the charming canals create postcard-perfect moments at every turn. Whether you’re interested in medieval architecture, world-class art, local Belgian cuisine, or simply a leisurely stroll along the cobblestone streets, Ghent has something for every traveler.
Exploring Ghent’s top attractions allows visitors to experience both iconic landmarks and hidden gems without the crowds. With a vibrant atmosphere, friendly locals, and rich heritage, Ghent stands out as one of Belgium’s most rewarding travel destinations. Plan your trip, take your time, and you’ll discover why Ghent’s attractions leave a lasting impression on every visitor.
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