Step into Patershol, a medieval quarter in Ghent where narrow cobblestone streets wind between well-preserved 16th-century buildings. This charming area balances historic character with a lively culinary scene that draws food lovers from across the city. Gravensteen Castle stands as a magnificent centrepiece that tells tales of the past. The area has evolved from working-class roots into a fashionable district filled with boutique shops and cosy cafés. House of Alijn museum and art galleries showcase local culture in historic settings. Diverse restaurants representing global cuisines make this walkable area perfect for culinary adventures.
Graslei and Korenlei captivates visitors with medieval guild houses lining both sides of the River Leie. Their ornate stepped gables and stone facades create a living museum of Ghent's commercial heritage. St. Michael's Bridge offers panoramic views of this remarkable historic district. The waterfront buzzes with restaurants and cafés housed in centuries-old buildings. Boat tours depart regularly, allowing travellers to admire the architecture from different angles. Evening illumination transforms the quays into a magical scene as historic facades reflect golden light on the water.
Kunstenkwartier is the cultural soul of Ghent where medieval meets modern. Cobblestone streets lead you past St. Peter's Abbey and the towering St. Bavo's Cathedral. This pedestrian-friendly arts quarter houses museums, galleries, and Ghent University's historic buildings. The area comes alive with locals enjoying Belgian beers at traditional brown cafés. Browse independent bookshops and design boutiques between cultural attractions. Gothic architecture creates perfect backdrops for photos while the Leie River offers scenic walking paths nearby.
Step into Ghent City Centre, a medieval wonderland where cobblestone streets wind between guild houses and peaceful canals. Gothic spires pierce the sky while the imposing Gravensteen Castle watches over centuries of Flemish heritage. The pedestrian-only zone invites leisurely exploration of St. Bavo's Cathedral and the soaring Belfry. This walkable district delights with traditional Belgian flavours and local craft beers. Browse charming chocolate shops and boutiques housed in historic buildings. Cultural treasures await in the Design Museum and Royal Dutch Theatre, while bustling squares like Korenmarkt offer perfect people-watching spots.
Step back in time at Elisabethbegijnhof, a UNESCO-listed medieval community dating back to the 13th century. Whitewashed houses with red-tiled roofs surround a tranquil courtyard garden where ancient trees provide welcome shade. Cobblestone paths lead visitors through this historic religious haven. The historic St. Elisabeth Church anchors this peaceful area just a short walk from central Ghent. Visitors appreciate the contemplative atmosphere and authentic medieval Flemish architecture. The area offers few commercial services, preserving its unique character as a quiet retreat from the busier parts of town.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Ghent
Gravensteen Castle
9.0/10 (1,048 reviews)
This imposing 12th-century fortress offers a fascinating glimpse into medieval Flanders with its ramparts and torture chamber. Climb to the top for panoramic views of Ghent's historic centre.
Ghent Town Hall features impressive Gothic and Renaissance facades. Take a guided tour through its rooms, including the romantic Wedding Chapel with beautiful stained-glass windows.
Saint Bavo's Cathedral houses the Ghent Altarpiece, a 15th-century masterpiece by the van Eyck brothers. Explore its Gothic grandeur with an augmented reality tour that brings the cathedral's artistic heritage to life.
Founded in 1817, Ghent University features the iconic Boekentoren library and GUM science museum. Explore the modernist architecture and scientific exhibits while enjoying the university's integration with city life.
Established in 1875, Ghent's Citadel Park enchants with winding paths, hidden grottos, and rare trees. Enjoy a picnic before exploring the Museum of Fine Arts and S.M.A.K. Contemporary Art Museum nearby.
Ghent Christmas Market transforms the medieval city centre with wooden stalls selling seasonal delicacies and handcrafted gifts. Warm up with mulled wine while enjoying panoramic views from the Korenmarkt Ferris wheel.
Once the heart of Ghent's medieval grain trade, Korenmarkt now thrives as a vibrant square with inviting terraces. Savour Belgian specialities while admiring St. Nicholas Church and centuries of architectural heritage.
"This was my family’s second time staying at B&B Ghent and we loved it as much as the first.
In a great location, very clean and staff very helpful.
Would definitely stay again"
"Pros: affordable, pretty good proximity to main highlights, great suite with a seating to be social, nice deep lockers to house our luggage until check in. Cons: reception a bit off putting upon arrival- not very welcoming as we were a bit early. Didn’t make effort to see if room was ready and we had to ask about where to put our bags. Wouldn’t initially help call cab despite our difficulties getting a line, eventually saw the problem and helped. No other people waiting, just didn’t seem to want...
"lively old hotel near gravensteen castle. easy to access all the activities of ghent. Great rooms and friendly front desk. sauna and fitness center a plus"
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
In Ghent, you can explore the Langemunt Shopping Centre for a vibrant mix of shops. The Ghent South Shopping Centre offers a lively atmosphere with various retail options. If you're up for a drive, The Cottage, located 6.4km away, is a charming store worth visiting for unique gifts.
Recreation
Golf School Gent offers a refreshing outdoor experience, perfect for golf enthusiasts amidst scenic landscapes. For sports lovers, Ghelamco Arena provides an exhilarating atmosphere with thrilling events. Enjoy a cultural evening at Capitole Theatre, where romance and entertainment blend seamlessly, making it ideal for families and couples alike.
Adventure
The Grimbeert Bicycle Trail , located 19.3km from Ghent, offers a scenic ride through picturesque landscapes. In the heart of Ghent, the Cycling Along Brooks and Meanders Trail allows you to explore charming waterways. Rodeland Bicycle Trail 1, merely 6.4km away, provides a delightful cycling experience amidst nature.
Nightlife
In Ghent, experience vibrant nightlife at Korenmarkt and Vlasmarkt, where pubs and clubs offer lively atmospheres. Visit the trendy Overpoortstraat for student-frequented bars and late-night spots, or enjoy live music at venues like Vooruit for an eclectic evening out.
Find the best attractions in Ghent
Ghent is an enticing destination for culture enthusiasts, families, and city explorers alike. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich history by visiting iconic sites such as the Ghent City Museum, the stunning Ghent Town Hall, and the remarkable Ghent Altarpiece. With its charming piazzas and historic buildings, Ghent offers a delightful blend of attractions that cater to various interests, ensuring a memorable experience for every traveller.
Gravensteen Castle: Explore the medieval charm of Gravensteen Castle, where you can wander through its impressive halls and learn about its rich history. The romantic atmosphere and stunning views from the ramparts make it a perfect spot for photography and reflection.
Saint Bavo Cathedral: Marvel at the breathtaking architecture of Saint Bavo Cathedral, renowned for its intricate Gothic design and magnificent artworks, including the famous altarpiece The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb. The serene ambiance invites contemplation and appreciation of its cultural significance.
St. Nicholas' Church: Discover the stunning interior of St. Nicholas' Church, characterised by its striking Romanesque architecture and beautiful stained glass windows. It's a serene space that showcases the rich spiritual heritage of Ghent.
Best time to go to Ghent
The best time to visit Ghent is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
Tips to save on your trip to Ghent
Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Ghent.
Consider traveling to Ghent during the low season (January to March) for more affordable options.
Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Ghent holiday package cost?
You can snap up a holiday package to this top destination on Expedia. However, how much your holiday to Ghent costs will depend on factors like your hotel choice, season and length of stay.
What are the cheapest months to go to Ghent?
If you're looking to snag a cheap Ghent holiday package, consider planning a trip in January, February and November. You'll usually find lower rates on hotels and airfares during these months — ideal for travellers wishing to save money.
How many days is enough for Ghent?
To get the most out of a Ghent holiday, we suggest booking for 2 days. Divide your time between visiting Castle of Gerald the Devil, Bijloke Music Centre and other major sights, as well as experiencing neighbourhoods like Ghent City Centre and Stationsbuurt Noord. If you've got some spare time, add a day trip or tour to your Ghent holiday itinerary.
Is it worth booking a holiday package to Ghent?
It's no wonder a Ghent holiday is on the must-do list of many travellers. Popular attractions like St. Nicholas' Church are just the beginning of things to see and do here.
How to find the best Ghent package deals?
Start your search for a Ghent package deal by entering your preferred trip dates and destination under our "Packages" tab. Then add a few filters, like "Popular locations" and "Property type," to tailor the results to your exact style. You can also sort by "Package discount" and discover offers that come with irresistible savings. If you don't find the ideal Ghent package deal right away, simply tweak your dates and search again. Bear in mind that deals are only available for a limited time, so book early and get your Ghent getaway off to a flying start.
Is it cheaper to book a Ghent holiday as a package?
An Expedia holiday package could save you hundreds of dollars when compared to booking flights and hotels individually. Better still, you can personalise your Ghent escape to fit your exact needs. Choose your preferred flight time, select the hotel type and add a rental car. Check out our great deals to see how much you can save.
When to book a holiday package to Ghent?
If you're planning a spontaneous Ghent holiday, check out our last-minute deals that can be booked up to one week before you take off. Don't want to leave things to the last minute? You can land amazing deals on your hotels and flights by booking well in advance.
How to plan a trip to Ghent?
Choose when to go: Check your schedule and get your bags packed. Your preferred season and the type of activities available will also help you decide when to escape to Ghent.
Set a budget: Consider expenses such as flights, meals and transportation when calculating how much to set aside for your trip to Ghent. Then, choose a property that matches your budget, whether that's an economical option or a swankier getaway.
Decide how long to go away for: Now that you're up to speed on Ghent, you can figure out the ideal length of your holiday. Create a rough itinerary and give yourself enough time to get through everything on your must-do list.
Combine your accommodation and airfare: After you've settled on your dates and duration, book the right Ghent holiday package for you.