Ghent packs an extraordinary amount into a compact, walkable centre — medieval towers, a genuine local food and beer scene, and none of the crowds that Bruges deals with year-round. Here are the 14 best things to do in Ghent in 2026.
A moated 12th-century fortress right in the city centre — walk the battlements, explore the torture museum, and climb to the roof for the definitive view over Ghent's rooftops. Book timed entry online to avoid the queue.
The twin medieval quays along the Leie River that produce Ghent's postcard skyline — Romanesque, Gothic and Renaissance guild houses lined up along the water, now full of cafés and restaurants.
Home to the Van Eyck brothers' Adoration of the Mystic Lamb — a 24-panel masterpiece and one of the most important paintings in Western art history. The dedicated viewing chapel requires a small separate ticket.
At 91 metres, this UNESCO-listed bell tower is the tallest belfry in Belgium. 350 steps (or a lift) lead to panoramic views over the city's famous three-tower skyline.
A 40-minute guided cruise past the Graslei, the Groot Vleeshuis butcher's hall and Gravensteen Castle — the easiest way to see the whole historic centre from the water.
Ghent's old medieval quarter — a dense web of narrow, cobbled lanes and restored guild houses, now the city's best district for atmospheric dinners. Come for an evening walk even if you eat elsewhere.
A narrow alley where street art is legally applied and reapplied constantly — it looks different every visit and is one of the few places in Europe where graffiti is officially encouraged.
The oldest of Ghent's three towers, built in the striking blue-grey Tournai limestone typical of the region — a hard-to-miss Gothic landmark right in the centre of the old town.
Ghent's historic main square, home to the giant medieval cannon Dulle Griet and some of the city's liveliest terrace bars — especially good on the Friday market day itself.
Two excellent museums sit side by side near Citadelpark: SMAK for contemporary art, and the MSK Museum of Fine Arts for Bosch, Bruegel, Ensor and Magritte. Both closed on Mondays.
Belgium's chocolate reputation is fully earned in Ghent — a guided small-group tour through the old town's best chocolatiers, with tastings at every stop, is one of the most popular activities in the city.
Housed in a restored former abbey, STAM tells Ghent's history from medieval trading power to modern student city — a good rainy-day option and genuinely well curated.
Ghent's signature dish — a creamy chicken or fish stew that originated in the city. Order it at any traditional restaurant in Patershol for the most authentic version.
If your dates line up, Ghent's 10-day summer festival transforms the entire city — free concerts, street theatre and a genuinely local celebration rather than a tourist event. Book accommodation well ahead if visiting during it.
Currency: Euro. Belgium is heavily card-based, including most frituur stands, though a little cash is useful for public toilets.
Getting around: The historic centre is fully walkable. Trams cover the museum district and the station, with tap-to-pay available directly on validators.
Language: Dutch (Flemish) is the local language. English is widely spoken in tourism, hospitality and among younger locals.
How many days do you need in Ghent? 2 days covers the main highlights comfortably. 3 days allows a relaxed pace plus a Bruges day trip.
Is Ghent safe? Very safe overall — one of Belgium's safest cities. Usual awareness applies around the station late at night, but violent crime targeting tourists is extremely rare.
Do I need to book Gravensteen Castle in advance? Booking online saves queuing and guarantees entry at peak times, especially on summer weekends and during the Gentse Feesten.
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