Nature
Lys
The Lys River in Ghent
The Lys is a river that flows through France and Belgium, passing through the city of Ghent before joining the Scheldt. For travelers, it serves as a central waterway that defines the city's layout. Visitors typically go here to walk along the banks and observe the urban scenery and architecture shaped by the river's path.
Getting There
The river runs directly through the heart of Ghent. Depending on your starting point in the city centre, the banks are accessible within a 5 to 10-minute walk. No specialized transport is required to reach the riverside areas.
Time Requirement
Depending on how far you choose to walk along the banks, allow 1 to 2 hours to explore the riverside paths and view the surrounding landscape.
When to Visit
The riverbanks are accessible throughout the year. Late afternoon and early evening are common times for walking. During peak tourist seasons and summer weekends, the riverside paths can become crowded with pedestrians and boat traffic.
Nearby Attractions
The river's location makes it easy to combine a walk with other nearby sites. Within walking distance, you can visit:
- King Albert Park (0.7km)
- Graaf van Vlaanderenplein (0.8km)
- Sint-Annakerk (0.8km)
- Woodrow Wilsonplein (0.9km)
Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors