Best Museums to Visit in Ghent

Ghent’s museums are as layered as the city itself. STAM, the Ghent City Museum, gives you the full historical context, housed in a mix of medieval abbey and sleek modern glass.

For art lovers, MSK (Museum of Fine Arts) houses an impressive collection of Flemish masters, while S.M.A.K., just across the street, pushes boundaries with edgy contemporary works.

One true hidden gem? The Dr. Guislain Museum—located in Belgium’s first psychiatric hospital—explores the history of mental health and the fine line between madness and creativity.

Experience Tip:
Many museums in Ghent are closed on Mondays, so plan your visit accordingly to make the most of your time.

What to Eat in Ghent

Ghent has a quiet culinary confidence, leaning on tradition with a creative edge. Try waterzooi (a creamy chicken or fish stew), stoverij (Flemish beef stew made with beer), and don’t leave without sampling Tierenteyn mustard—still handmade and sold from a single counter near the Groentenmarkt.

The Patershol neighborhood is a cobbled maze of tucked-away restaurants serving everything from Belgian classics to modern fusion.

And for something sweet? Cuberdons, the cone-shaped “nose” candies sold by street vendors.

Want more foodie finds? Dive into our 10 Must-Try European Dishes for flavor-packed travel inspiration.

Experience Tip: Visit the Great Butchers’ Hall—a medieval covered market still showcasing local delicacies.

Things to Do in Ghent at Night

When the sun sets, Ghent transforms. The city’s award-winning Light Plan illuminates its most iconic buildings with a soft, magical glow, making it one of the best cities in Europe for nighttime strolling.

Wind your way past the illuminated castle, over bridges, and through hidden alleys. Then duck into Dulle Griet for a beer experience you won’t forget—but be warned: if you order their “Max van ‘t Huis” beer, they’ll take your shoe as a deposit!

Experience Tip: Follow the official Ghent Light Walk route or book a guided evening tour.

Hidden Gems to Discover in Ghent

Ghent’s beauty goes well beyond the big-ticket sights. Slip into the serene Beguinages, quiet religious communities once home to lay sisterhoods.

Explore Werregarenstraat, also known as Graffiti Alley, where street art is ever-changing and free to flourish. Behind many historic facades, you’ll find pocket gardens and peaceful courtyards the average traveler misses.

Duck into artisan workshops selling handmade lace, chocolate, or stationery. Browse cozy secondhand bookshops tucked between Gothic towers.

The city’s student population adds youthful energy, with regular open-air markets, local music events, and experimental theater.

Experience Tip: Check out the Friday morning market at Vrijdagmarkt—a lively mix of produce, antiques, and locals in their weekly shop.

Where to Stay in Ghent

The best place to stay is in the historic city center, where you’ll be within walking distance of most Ghent attractions including the Graslei, Gravensteen Castle, and Saint Bavo’s Cathedral.

For those looking for boutique charm and local character, consider:

• 1898 The Post – Housed in the city’s old post office, this elegant boutique hotel offers views over the canal and easy access to all the top things to do in Ghent.
• Hotel Harmony – Located near Gravensteen Castle, this luxury yet intimate hotel provides beautiful canal views and a quiet retreat in the heart of the city.

Other popular neighborhoods include Patershol, known for its medieval streets and cozy dining spots, and the Arts Quarter near Citadelpark, perfect for museum lovers.

Cultural Events & Festivals in Ghent

If you’re wondering what to do in Ghent Belgium beyond sightseeing, time your visit around one of the city’s signature cultural events:

• Gentse Feesten (July 18–27, 2025) – One of Europe’s largest city festivals, this 10-day event fills Ghent with music, theater, food, and cultural performances. It’s an unforgettable way to experience local life.
• Ghent Light Festival (Dates TBA) –The Ghent Light Festival, held every three years, will return in 2027—mark your calendar if you love immersive public art and illuminated cityscapes.
• OdeGand (September 2025) – A one-day music and culture event that kicks off the Festival of Flanders. Performances take place on boats, in churches, and all around the city center.

These festivals add rich layers to your Ghent travel guide and offer some of the most unique experiences in Ghent for visitors who want more than just sightseeing.

FAQ: Ghent Travel Tips for 2025

Q: How many days should I spend in Ghent?
A: Two to three days is ideal. It gives you enough time to see the main attractions, explore hidden gems, and enjoy the city’s vibrant nightlife and food scene at a relaxed pace.

Q: Can I walk to all the best attractions in Ghent?
A: Yes. Most of the best attractions in Ghent are within walking distance in the compact historic center. For destinations farther out, trams and buses are convenient and covered by the CityCard Gent.

Q: Is Ghent a good destination for first-time visitors to Belgium?
A: Definitely. Ghent combines the beauty of medieval architecture with a local vibe and manageable crowds, making it a great starting point for a Belgium trip.

Q: Is Ghent worth visiting in 2025?
A: Absolutely. Ghent blends culture, architecture, and a laid-back vibe that’s hard to beat—without the tourist overload of nearby Bruges.

Q: What is Ghent known for?
A: Medieval architecture, the Ghent Altarpiece, canal views, a strong student scene, and its authentic food culture. It’s one of the best hidden gems in Belgium.

Q: How do I get to Ghent from Brussels?
A: Ghent is just 30–40 minutes by train from Brussels, with frequent departures from Brussels Central and Brussels Midi stations.

Q: When is the best time to visit Ghent?
A: Spring and early fall are ideal, offering mild weather and fewer crowds. Summer brings festivals and lively streets, while winter has its own charm with Christmas markets and cozy cafés.

Q: What are some unique experiences in Ghent?
A: Explore hidden courtyards, take a canal boat ride at sunset, visit quirky museums like Dr. Guislain, or sample Cuberdons and Flemish stews in local markets.

Culture, Charm, and the Soul of Belgium

Ghent may not clamor for your attention like some of its flashier neighbors, but that’s exactly the point.

It’s a city of stories—quietly rich, endlessly walkable, and filled with moments that make you feel like you’ve stumbled onto something truly special.

Whether you’re admiring the reflections of gabled houses along the Graslei, standing beneath the soaring vaults of Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, or sipping a local brew in a centuries-old pub tucked down an alley, Ghent’s cultural fabric is woven into every experience.

Even its hidden courtyards and graffiti-covered alleys speak to a city that values art, history, and surprise.