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Belgium Belgium

Ghent

Ghent is the largest city in Flanders, Belgium, and was once among the most prosperous cities in medieval Northern Europe. Today its port and numerous universities give it a young, energetic atmosphere.

Updated August 15, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Ghent
Gateway airport
Brussels Airport (BRU)
Best season
May–Oct
Time zone
Europe/Brussels
Sights covered
45 places

Sights worth seeing

See all 45 →
St Bavo's Cathedral

Temples & religious sites

St Bavo's Cathedral

A Roman Catholic cathedral in Ghent, built in Gothic style and standing 89 meters tall. It is known as the place to see the famous Ghent Altarpiece in person.

Museum of Fine Arts Ghent (MSK)

Museums & galleries

Museum of Fine Arts Ghent (MSK)

An art museum in Ghent, Belgium, home to a wide range of works spanning many periods. It's a great stop for a quiet cultural break while exploring the city center.

Gravensteen

Castles & palaces

Gravensteen

Gravensteen is a medieval castle in central Ghent, built in 1180 and once home to the Counts of Flanders. It later served as a courthouse, prison, and mint, and is now open as a museum where visitors can explore the castle inside and out.

Saint Nicholas' Church

Temples & religious sites

Saint Nicholas' Church

A Roman Catholic church in the heart of Ghent, built starting in the 13th century and a landmark of the city. It showcases Scheldt Gothic architecture and a spire built from blue-gray Tournai stone.

Lys

Nature

Lys

A river that flows through France and Belgium, passing through Ghent before joining the Scheldt. It's a lovely spot for a riverside walk amid the scenery shaped by the waterway.

Stedelijk Museum voor Actuele Kunst

Museums & galleries

Stedelijk Museum voor Actuele Kunst

A contemporary art museum in Ghent, Belgium. It is renowned for both its collection and its bold special exhibitions, making it a favorite among art lovers.

Prinsenhof

Castles & palaces

Prinsenhof

A former palace in Ghent that served as the residence of the Counts of Flanders from the 15th century. It's said to be the birthplace of Holy Roman Emperor Charles V, drawing a steady stream of history enthusiasts.

Saint Michael's Church, Ghent

Temples & religious sites

Saint Michael's Church, Ghent

A Roman Catholic church in Ghent, Belgium, built in the late Gothic style. Its ornate interior is worth a slow, thorough look.

How many days do you need?

Routes grouped by travel distance so each day stays comfortable.

Average temperature by month

5-year average

Jan
Feb
Mar
10° Apr
14° May
18° Jun
18° Jul
19° Aug
17° Sep
13° Oct
Nov
Dec

Getting there

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Getting around the city

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Ghent Tours & Experiences Booking

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Local data

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Where to stay

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