If you’re travelling in Belgium or looking for a cool city-break alternative to Brussels, just head towards Ghent, the capital of the East Flanders province. The medieval -styled city looks exactly same like it did in middle-age 10 centuries ago. Like me, you will definitely fall in love with the city’s architecture, ambience and penchant for sweet treats. Two days is enough to see and explore the best of Ghent.
Top 5 things to explore in Ghent, Belgium
I challenge you to take a bad photograph in Ghent, Belgium, it is simply not possible. The ‘point-and-shoot’ town is a living postcard everywhere you look, so picturesque that it hardly feels real. It’s a university town where the student population congregates along the waters’ edge in the evenings. Ghent is surprisingly un-touristy, despite having a plethora of tourist attractions, but that’s what makes its atmosphere so relaxing. Just a bus ride from Amsterdam or Brussels, you can reach to the beautiful world of Flanders.
1) Gravensteen Castle :
The 12th century middle age Gravensteen Castle is the centrepiece of Ghent The name means “castle of the counts” in Dutch. The castle was remarkably also known for its torture house for criminals back in middle ages. You can experience the history of the once prosperous Flander region in this castle. I would definitely recommend you to take an audio tour of 10€ to know the significance of each square in the castle. I am sure you will love it.
Pro tip: The Gravensteen is situated right in the heart of the city centre, and gives a spectacular panaromic 360 degree view of the city from its terrace. Hence a Must visit.
2) The Mystic lamb Painting :
St. Bravo cathedral is home of the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb, an incredibly famous painting which is worth a look. It is one of the first oil paintings and it reminded me of the first time I saw the ‘Mona Lisa’. More interesting is the story of the ‘Mystic Lamb’ than the painting. The sketch of the altarpieceIt began in the mid-1420s and was completed just before1432. It is considered a masterpiece of European art and one of the world’s treasures. This church is grand, with incredible stained glass windows.
Pro Tip: The Church entrance is free for all, but to view the mystic lamb a ticket of 10€ has to be purchased. It can be missed since you can view the picture from a distance as well.
3) Graslei and Korenlei
A quay in the historic city centre of Ghent, located on the right bank of the Leie river. The opposite quay side of Graslei is called Korenlei. They are considered to be one of the oldest location in Ghent. Both quay sides were part of the medieval port and are now a cultural and touristic hotspot of the city, with a high number of café patios – making it one of the top things to do in Ghent.
Pro tip: A walk through Graslei is a treat to your eyes, the city has put lot of planing how historical city shines in night. Enjoy the Ghent in night for its illuminated glory.
4) St. Nicolas Church :
St. Nicolas Church, a 11th century Romanesque style church is a famous landmark of the city. The striking blue-grey stone from tournai and it’s architecture attracts many tourist. The facade and the interior of the church is beautifully crafted in gothic style. The central tower, which was funded partly by the city, served as an observation post and carried the town bells until the neighbouring belfry of Ghent was built. The Belfry tower also has the observing deck of the historical city.
5) Mokabon :
This place is incredible for coffee lovers like me. Welcome to the Coffee heaven -Mokabon, the first coffee cafe of Ghent. When i visited this place, the cafe was filled with fragrance of aromatic coffee beans. It still sells old school Belgium coffee. A must try is hot coffee with Belgium chocolate ( Yummmmmmm)
Needless to say that along with the above experiences you must enjoy the amazing local beer and the mouth watering food that you find in those small cafes and restaurants. Though there are number of cafes claiming it to serve the best beer in Ghent, I would suggest you to go to any cafe and you will not be disappointed. At night the cafes blossom due to large number of students in the town and hence you can experience a good night life. Also do not miss the local waffles and Nose shaped candies which are sold on the streets. You will love them ❤️
Ghent is definitely a perfect place to have a weekend gate away with many options to do and explore. I would definitely recommend you to have a 1 night stay and explore both the city and the night life. You will not be disappointed.
Check out some other Gorgeous cities of Belgium.
Let me know your experiences in the city!!! Incase you are in Ghent and we can give you shoutout on Instagram. ✅
Much Love!!! 
