Ghent City Guide — Attractions, Food & Tips

Ghent City GuideA living medieval masterpiece where Gothic spires pierce the Flemish sky, canals mirror centuries-old guild houses, and a youthful university energy keeps the city vibrantly modern.Key Facts

Country: Belgium

Currency: EUR (Euro)

Language: Dutch

Time Zone: UTC+1

Best Time to Visit: May–September

Top Places to Visit

Sint-Baafskathedraal — This Gothic cathedral houses the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb by the Van Eyck brothers, one of the most important artworks in history. The crypt dates to the 10th century.

Gravensteen — A formidable 12th-century stone castle with turrets, a moat, and a torture museum inside. Built by Philip of Alsace, it dominates the city centre.

Graslei & Korenlei — Two picturesque quays facing each other across the Leie river, lined with stunning guild houses dating from the 12th to 17th centuries. The heart of Ghent's waterfront.

Belfort van Gent — The tallest belfry in Belgium and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take the lift to the top for 360-degree views over the city's three famous towers.

Sint-Niklaaskerk — A 13th-century Scheldt Gothic masterpiece forming part of Ghent's famous three-tower skyline. The blue-grey Tournai limestone gives it a distinctive appearance.

Local Food

Frites — Belgian fries are a national institution — double-fried for a crispy exterior and fluffy inside, served in a paper cone with a choice of sauces. Try them from a frituur.

Waterzooi — Ghent's signature dish — a creamy stew traditionally made with freshwater fish (or chicken) in a rich broth with leeks, carrots, and potatoes.

Gentse Neuzen — Ghent's iconic nose-shaped violet-flavoured sweets. These purple cone-shaped candies are a beloved local treat, available at confectioners across the city.

Stoofvlees — Flemish beef stew slowly braised in Belgian beer with bread spread with mustard. Rich, dark, and deeply flavourful — the ultimate Belgian comfort food.

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