Belgium · City Guide
Ghent
Ghent is Belgium's most exciting and underrated city, a medieval university town that has developed one of Europe's finest food and craft beer scenes while maintaining its extraordinary heritage of Gothic architecture, the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb altarpiece and beautiful canal-side streetscapes. Often overshadowed by Bruges and Brussels, Ghent consistently rewards visitors with a more authentic and less touristy Belgian experience.
Elect's take
"Ghent is the Belgian city that most impressed me on discovery. The combination of the Mystic Lamb in Sint-Baaf, the extraordinary medieval streetscape and a food and beer culture that has become genuinely world class creates something I find very appealing."
Sint-Baafskathedraal houses the Ghent Altarpiece — the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb by the Van Eyck brothers — one of the most important and complex paintings in the history of Western art, recently restored to its full magnificence. Gravensteen, the imposing 12th century Castle of the Counts, rises dramatically above the canal providing excellent views and medieval atmosphere. Graslei and Korenlei provide the most beautiful medieval guild house streetscapes in Belgium alongside the canals. The Ghent food scene, led by the annual Ghent Food Festival and celebrated chefs across the restaurant scene, is outstanding. The city's craft beer culture is excellent. The Saturday flower market is beautiful.
Best time to visit
How to get there
What to expect
Ghent Altarpiece
The Van Eyck brothers' Adoration of the Mystic Lamb, one of the most important paintings in Western art.
Gravensteen Castle
A dramatic 12th century castle rising above the canals in the heart of the city.
Graslei & Korenlei
The most beautiful medieval guild house streetscapes in Belgium along the Leie canal.
Ghent Food Scene
One of Belgium's finest and most rapidly evolving restaurant cultures.
Craft Beer Culture
Outstanding craft beer bars and the famous Waterhuis aan de Bierkant with 200 beers.
University City
A vibrant student atmosphere creating excellent bars, music venues and creative culture.
