Top 12 Best Things To Do in Ghent

Prepare to be captivated by the top 12 best things to do in Ghent and discover world-class art, medieval architecture, canalside cafes, and the famous Gravensteen Castle. Although it's not as touristy as its neighboring cities, Ghent offers an authentic Belgian experience, and you’ll learn all about it in this guide!

As you explore, you’ll uncover the city’s charm and hidden treasures, making it the perfect destination for those seeking something a little different. To make your trip even more exciting, choose from a diverse range of Ghent tours and activities to fill your itinerary and explore the city like a true local.

Step inside a 12th-century fortress, enjoy the best riverside views, and taste sweet treats you won’t find anywhere else. Get insider tips on exploring Belgium’s most vibrant hidden gem and uncover unique activities in the city.

If you don't want to plan every detail of your trip, check out the widest selection of travel packages in Ghent and find one that matches your style and budget. Alternatively, explore the best itineraries in Ghent, designed to help you experience the city's highlights with ease and at the perfect pace, ensuring you don't miss a thing.

The capital of East Flanders promises an unforgettable adventure, even if you’re visiting for a quick city break or diving deep into Belgium’s culture. Once you finish reading this guide, you'll have a clearer idea of how to plan your activities for your trip, so keep reading and be sure to take notes!

12. Explore Gravensteen Castle in Ghent

Joining a guided tour that includes Gravensteen Castle, also known as the Castle of the Counts, is one of the top things to do in Ghent. Built in the 12th century, the castle is among the city's most intriguing landmarks. Over the years, it has served as a royal residence, courtroom, and prison.

Today, you can explore its grand halls, climb its stone towers, and step into eerie dungeons that once held prisoners centuries ago. From the top, the fortress walls are one of the city's most picturesque spots for breathtaking views. You can also visit the armory room to see a collection of medieval weapons and battle gear.

Unlike many castles, Gravensteen presents history with an engaging and accessible audio guide, making the visit educational and fun. Every corner tells a story, from the echoing halls where counts once ruled to the dimly lit chambers filled with fascinating artifacts.

For the best experience, visit in the morning to avoid crowds, especially during the peak summer season from June to August. Wear comfortable shoes, as the castle's staircases can be steep. Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning views.

11. Wander Around Ghent’s Most Picturesque Streets

Discover the picturesque streets of Graslei and Korenlei on a historical walking tour, another top thing to do in Ghent. Located on opposite sides of the Leie River, they’re lined with preserved medieval buildings that once housed merchants, guilds, and traders. These streets provide the perfect spot for taking pictures or relaxing by the water. 

The Graslei and Korenlei have been the center of trade for grain, spices, and textiles in Ghent since medieval times. Today, the area feels lively and welcoming, especially on sunny days. People gather at outdoor cafes for Belgian waffles, coffee, or beer while enjoying the scenic views.

Come in the early morning to take photos or later in the afternoon to soak up the buzzing atmosphere. Bring your camera, and leave some free time to wander around slowly. These riverside streets showcase some of Ghent's most beautiful views and a taste of everyday local life.

10. Walk Through Patershol on an Evening Tour of Ghent

Taking the evening tour of Ghent’s dark side, including the Patershol, is an exciting way to explore the city after sunset. Patershol is one of the oldest and most lovely neighborhoods in Ghent. Its narrow streets have intriguing stories when darkness falls. 

It was a residential area in medieval times that grew in the castle's shadow. Today, the area feels authentic and friendly, with family-run restaurants and cafes serving delicious local food. Wandering through the maze-like streets is best with a guide who can share mysterious legends, fascinating local tales, and spooky history.

Wear comfortable shoes and your curiosity as you walk the old cobblestones. After the tour, stay a little longer and grab dinner at one of the restaurants. Soak in the authentic atmosphere of this historic area and experience Ghent like a local.

9. Admire the Stunning St. Bavo’s Cathedral in Ghent

Take a private walking tour in Ghent that includes St. Bavo's Cathedral. As one of the city's most significant landmarks, the cathedral is a masterpiece of architecture that mixes Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles. Its towering spires and intricate stone carvings make it one of the most remarkable churches in Belgium.

The cathedral's grand interior is filled with stunning stained-glass windows, religious sculptures, and one of the most beautiful pulpits in Europe. The real treasure here is the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb, a world-famous altarpiece painted by the Van Eyck brothers in 1432.

The altarpiece is considered one of the greatest works of Flemish art for its vivid colors, intricate details, and rich symbolism. It has survived theft, war, and centuries of history, making its presence in Ghent even more remarkable. When you visit, you can experience augmented reality that offers a glimpse into the history of the altarpiece.

This cathedral is an essential stop for those who want to experience the best things to do in Ghent. Arrive early to escape from crowds and take time to admire the crypt, where layers of history unfold through ancient tombs and artifacts.

8. Discover the STAM Museum (Ghent City Museum)

Photo by Phile Deprez, from Wikimedia Commons. No edits made.

Enjoy a 5-day city break in Ghent that includes visiting the STAM Museum, the perfect place to go if you truly want to understand the city. This modern historical museum tells the story of Ghent's evolution from a medieval trading hub to a lively cultural center. It's set within a beautifully restored 14th-century abbey and a 17th-century convent.

The museum's cutting-edge exhibits and interactive displays vividly depict the city's history. Walk across a massive aerial map to see how Ghent is laid out. Use multimedia tools to explore its past through different centuries. Kids will also have fun building and rebuilding miniature models of the city's famous sites at the Lego table.

STAM museum is a gateway to understanding Ghent on a deeper level. Even if you're here for a short visit or planning an extended stay, this stop will give you the context to appreciate the city's hidden layers, making it one of the most engaging things to do in Ghent.

7. Climb the Ghent Belfry for Panoramic Views

A Ghent private historical highlights tour includes the Belfry, Belgium’s tallest bell tower and a proud symbol of independence. Built in the 14th century, this UNESCO-listed tower protected the city’s most valuable documents and provided a strategic vantage point for spotting enemies. 

Today, visiting the tower is one of the most rewarding things to do in Ghent, offering breathtaking city views from a height of 299 feet (91 meters). The steep steps take you past ancient bells, including the famous Roland, which once sounded alarms. At the top, a golden dragon, a centuries-old guardian of Ghent, watches over the rooftops.

The view stretches across the historic center, with St. Bavo's Cathedral and St. Nicholas' Church perfectly aligned below. You might even hear the carillon playing, adding to the moment's magic.

If you want to avoid steep stairs, you can ride an elevator for an easier climb. Visit on a Sunday morning to hear the live bell performance, or come in the evening for a stunning sunset over the city. If you're looking for the best panoramic view in Ghent, the Belfry is one of the places to be.

6. Visit Ghent's St. Michael’s Bridge for the Best Photo Spot

The guided tour of Ghent that includes St. Michael's Bridge is the ideal way to discover one of the city's most stunning viewpoints. Here, you get a postcard-perfect panorama of Ghent's famous Three Towers: St. Nicholas' Church, the Belfry, and St. Bavo's Cathedral.

St. Michael's Bridge is an architectural gem featuring graceful stone arches and an ornate lantern in the center. The Leie River and elegant guild houses make it one of the city's most photogenic spots.

Locals love it for an evening stroll, especially at sunset when the golden light casts a glow over the historic facades. Nighttime is just as magical, with the city lights creating a dreamy atmosphere over the river.

For photographers and travelers, this bridge is a must-visit for the best skyline shots. It's a great stop before heading to nearby cafes along the river or exploring more things to do in Ghent.

To avoid the midday rush, go early in the morning or late in the evening. Plan your visit on a weekday rather than a weekend, as weekends are busier. Just be patient for a break in the flow, and you’ll still get stunning shots.

5. Discover Ghent's Canals by Boat

See the city from the comfort of its tranquil canals on a 40-minute Ghent boat tour. Depart from a picturesque jetty in the historic center and drift by medieval architecture and charming waterfront cafes. While you glide along, a knowledgeable guide will share intriguing tales of the city's past.

The route highlights the most iconic landmarks, including the old meat market and the imposing walls of the Castle of the Counts. You'll also cruise past the elegant facades of the Graslei, where you'll discover how trade once fueled the city's economy. Admire every detail of the city's best-loved sights from the water without the usual hustle on the streets.

This cruise is among the most memorable things to do in Ghent for travelers looking to slow down and soak up the local ambiance. You'll drift by centuries of history and see the city at its most picturesque. Bring your camera, feel the gentle pace of the water, and let Ghent's timeless charm amaze you.

4. Explore Ghent’s Street Art Scene on a Bike 

Editorial credit: Mo Wu / Shutterstock.com

Explore Ghent’s Werregarenstraat graffiti alley on a bike tour, highlighting the city’s bold and ever-changing urban art scene. Ride through the lively street, a legally sanctioned canvas for local and international graffiti artists. Every wall bursts with color, making each visit unique as the artwork continually transforms.

Witness the evolving side of Ghent, where traditional beauty meets modern creativity. The alley’s history adds an extra layer of intrigue, and its dynamic displays make it a standout attraction for travelers. For many visitors, exploring the graffiti street on two wheels is a fun thing to do in Ghent beyond classic architecture and medieval landmarks.

3. Take the Belgian Chocolate Tour

Take the Belgian chocolate tour in Ghent to indulge in the city’s most irresistible sweets while strolling the medieval streets. Along the way, you'll visit an award-winning chocolatier who makes one of the finest pralines in Flanders. 

Taste unique flavors, where chocolatiers add surprising ingredients like mustard or chili to create treats unlike anything you’ve had before. You may even taste passion fruit-infused chocolates or a red velvet brownie.

You can also visit a candy shop from the early 1900s, where each sweet has a story. This tour is a journey through chocolate history, local lore, and the city’s warm hospitality. As you go along, you’ll discover why this adventure is one of the most mouthwatering things to do in Ghent.

2. Join the Guided Beer Walking Tour in Ghent

Sample Belgium’s famous brews on a guided beer walking tour in Ghent. Each bar along the route offers a different vibe, from cozy nooks to lively terraces. Your guide will offer insights into centuries of brewing tradition, revealing how beer helped shape the city’s culture and identity.

Taste a variety of beers and learn the unique techniques of why Belgian beer is so special. Friendly bartenders might share the stories behind each drink, and you’ll soon understand why locals are so passionate about their beer. This tour mixes history and flavor, creating a fun way to explore hidden corners you might otherwise miss.

For many travelers, this beer walk is one of the most entertaining things to do in Ghent, thanks to the city’s long-standing love affair with malts. As you explore the city's historic taverns and breweries on a beer walking tour, raise your glass to Ghent’s rich heritage.

1. Indulge in a Food Tasting Tour in Ghent 

Indulge in a gastronomic walking tour in Ghent to explore the city's best local flavors. Visit iconic food spots, where you'll taste crispy Belgian fries and decadent, handmade chocolates. While on your way, your guide will share stories behind these legendary treats.

Enjoy stops at the city's most authentic establishments, including a local frites shop where you'll quickly learn why they're not called "French" fries here. You'll also discover Ganda ham, a regional specialty, followed by a sweet surprise. 

No food tour in Belgium is complete without a delicious waffle, so have a bite while discovering its medieval origins. To conclude the experience, you'll enjoy a glass of Gruut beer brewed using an ancient spice mix instead of hops.

For food lovers, this tour is easily one of the most satisfying things to do in Ghent. It's not just about eating; it's about savoring the flavors that define the city. Come hungry, bring your curiosity, and prepare to discover why Belgian cuisine is worth every bite.