Ghent, located just 30 minutes from Brussels, is a charming Flemish city full of rich history and stunning architecture. Once the capital of the region, Ghent has transformed into a vibrant cultural hub, making it an ideal destination for a one-day visit.

Below is a suggested itinerary to explore the best of what this beautiful city has to offer.

Morning Highlights

Start with St. Bavo’s Cathedral and Geeraard the Devil’s Castle

Begin the day in the eastern part of Ghent’s historic center with a visit to St. Bavo’s Cathedral. This magnificent Gothic cathedral is known for its towering bell tower, which is the focal point of the surrounding square.

A breakfast of Belgian waffles at one of the nearby kiosks is a perfect start to the day. Prices range from €4 to €6, depending on the toppings.

After enjoying breakfast, head inside the cathedral to admire the famous Ghent Altarpiece, a monumental painting that is shrouded in mystery and symbolism.

After exploring the cathedral, take a short walk behind it to visit Geeraard the Devil’s Castle. While the castle is not open to the public, the exterior remains a fascinating sight, set along the banks of a minor branch of the Scheldt River. Originally built as a fortification, the castle was named after Geeraard, the son of a medieval noble, who earned the nickname “the Devil.”

Afternoon Exploration

Lunch at Het Groot Vleeshuis and Visit City Hall

For lunch, head to the banks of the Leie River to visit Het Groot Vleeshuis, a former meat market. Here, visitors can taste Ganda meat, made using an ancient medieval recipe, paired with Tierenteyn-Verlent mustard, a local specialty with a distinctive spicy flavor.

After lunch, make sure to visit the City Hall, where the entrance is available at 2:00 PM with prior booking. The City Hall is a blend of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Inside, you can explore the wedding chapel, throne room, and two representative halls—Pacificatiezaal and Arsenaalzaal—each with its unique features. The entrance fee is €8.

Stroll Along Graslei and Korenlei and Explore the Castle of the Counts of Flanders

After visiting City Hall, take a walk along the Graslei and Korenlei quays, which have long been the center of Ghent’s commercial activities. The quays are lined with well-preserved merchant guild houses built in traditional Flemish architectural style.

Continue north along the river to reach the Castle of the Counts of Flanders. This medieval fortress offers an immersive 90-minute tour with an audio guide included in the entrance fee of €10. Notable features include a medieval boat reconstruction, castle walls to walk along, and prison cells that showcase chains and torture devices from the past.

Evening Charm

Discover the Patershol District and Enjoy Dinner

In the evening, head to the Patershol district, where you can wander through narrow alleys and historic streets. The district, which still follows its ancient medieval layout, is home to a variety of cafes and restaurants housed in former merchant shops.

For dinner, Karel De Stoute offers a delightful taste of authentic Flemish cuisine. While it’s a bit on the expensive side (around €40 per person), it’s one of the best places in Ghent to experience local flavors.

Useful Tips

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit Ghent is during June and July, when the weather is moderate, and local festivals are in full swing. During this period, you can also avoid the high-season crowds and prices.

Weather and Attire

Ghent experiences rain throughout the year, and the weather can change quickly. It’s advisable to bring an umbrella or a waterproof jacket to stay comfortable in all seasons.

Getting Around

The historic center of Ghent is the largest pedestrian zone in Belgium, so comfortable shoes are a must. All of your exploration will be done on foot, so be prepared for a day of walking.

What to Skip?

If time is limited, consider skipping the following attractions:

- Museum of Fine Arts

- Huis van Alijn Museum

- St. Michael’s

- Vooruit Arts Centre

- Flemish Opera

Ghent offers an incredible mix of history, architecture, and local culture, making it the perfect destination for a one-day getaway.

Top 5 Things To Do in Ghent

Video By Arienne - SeeYouSoonTravel