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
- Gateway airport
- Brussels Airport (BRU)
- Best season
- May–Oct
- Time zone
- Europe/Brussels
- Sights covered
- 45 places
Sights worth seeing
See all 45 →
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
Getting there
Check flights to Ghent first
Pick a departure airport and date to jump straight to results for Brussels Airport (BRU).
Check fares and seat availability on the flight search site.
Getting around the city
Book transport
Fares and timetables change often, so we don't list them here. Check the operator or the booking site for current prices and schedules.
Ghent Tours & Experiences Booking
Book local tours, tickets, and experiences in advance to enjoy without waiting. Check available products and prices now.
Check prices and availability on the booking sites.
Where to stay
See all stays →Pick your dates — we'll search Ghent hotels for you
Choose dates and guests, and the buttons below will open search results with your criteria. Prices differ between sites, so compare before you book.
Hotel membership
Staying at Accor hotels often? ALL Accor+ Explorer
A paid annual membership. It includes two free nights a year across Asia-Pacific, 30% off dining and 15% off drinks, and 15% off stays at more than 4,500 hotels worldwide.
Explore the membership
Visit stories: Ghent
Have you been to this city?
Share your visit story with photos you took yourself. Once checked, it goes into the Magazine.
Guides by theme
Best value
Where to stay in Ghent for good value and easy transport connections
Read guide →
5-star & luxury
Where to Stay in Ghent for Luxury and Five-Star Accommodation
Read guide →
Pool villas & resorts
Where to stay for pool villas and resorts around Ghent
Read guide →
Family travel
Where to Stay in Ghent for a Family Trip: Best Neighborhoods and Booking Tips
Read guide →
Couples & honeymoon
Where to Stay in Ghent for a Romantic Trip or Honeymoon
Read guide →
Central & near stations
Where to Stay in Ghent for Quick Station Access and Historic Sightseeing
Read guide →
Best time to visit
When Is the Best Time to Visit Ghent, Belgium?
Read guide →
First-time guide
How to Plan Your First Visit to Ghent: Neighborhoods, Airport Transit, and Sightseeing Flow
Read guide →
Getting around
How to get around Ghent using public transport, trains, and bicycles
Read guide →