🇧🇪 Belgium
Ghent travel guide
Ghent is Belgium's best-kept secret, a stunning medieval city that rivals Bruges but with more authentic local life and student energy. This Flemish beauty boasts picturesque canals, the imposing Gravensteen castle, the Ghent Altarpiece masterpiece, and a vibrant cultural scene. Less touristy than Bruges, more charming than Brussels.
Language
Dutch (English widely spoken)
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Timezone
CET (GMT+1) / CEST (GMT+2 summer)
Best time
April to October
Budget/day
€75-140/day
When to visit
Jan
1°C to 6°C
Feb
1°C to 7°C
Mar
3°C to 11°C
Apr
5°C to 14°C
May
9°C to 18°C
Jun
12°C to 21°C
Jul
14°C to 23°C
Aug
14°C to 23°C
Sep
11°C to 19°C
Oct
7°C to 14°C
Nov
4°C to 9°C
Dec
2°C to 6°C
Safety
very safeGhent is very safe with a strong student population keeping streets lively. Standard precautions at train stations.
Women travellers
Ghent is very safe for solo women. The historic Graslei/Korenlei canal quays, Patershol medieval quarter, and the university Overpoort nightlife area are all safe. Ghent is student-dominated (80,000+ students) and has a welcoming, progressive atmosphere at all hours.
Culture & etiquette
- + See the Ghent Altarpiece
- + Walk Graslei at night
- + Climb the belfry
- + Try local beers
- - Don't compare to Bruges (different!)
- - Don't skip the altarpiece
- - Don't miss student atmosphere
- - Don't overtip (included)
Food to try
Gentse Waterzooi
Creamy chicken or fish stew
Cuberdon (Gentse neuzen)
Cone-shaped nose candy
Belgian frites
Belgian fries with mayo
Stoofvlees
Beer-braised beef
Belgian beer
Local and abbey beers
Belgian waffles
Crispy waffles
Hidden gems
Details are indicative and may change. Verify visa, safety, and entry requirements before travel.