1 day in Ghent

Ghent is a port city in northwest Belgium.Today it’s a university town and cultural hub. Its pedestrianized center is known for medieval architecture such as 12th-century Gravensteen castle and the Graslei.

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If you are spending few days in Brussels, Ghent is a nice day trip.

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WEATHER

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The climate in Ghent is mild, with significant rainfall throughout the year even in the driest month. The coldest month is January and the hottest is July.

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We went there in March and the weather was warm and sunny.

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TRANSPORT

 

It's easy to reach Ghent from Brussels. You can take a train from Bruxelles-Midi  or from Bruxelles Central to Ghent. We took the train at Bruxelles-Midi. A return ticket during the weekend will cost you 10.40€ and you can buy it at the station. Tickets are more expensive during the week. The journey takes around 1 hour if you take an IC train. Avoid the local trains (L) as the journey will be longer. For more info about tickets and prices go to this link From Brussels to Ghent.

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Once in Guent it will take you around 20-25 minutes walk to get to the city centre. You don't need to use the public transport as everything is within walking distance. 

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PLACES TO VISIT AND THINGS TO DO

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• Visit the Castle of the Counts or Gravensteen ,built somewhere around 1180 by Count Philip of Alsace.

• Stroll around Patershol, a picturesque neighbourhood with streets that have been the same since medieval times. You will find loads of nice restaurants around here.

• Have a look at the Gothic St Bavo's Cathedral. This cathedral was once a Romanesque Church.

• Admire the city from St. Michael's Bridge.

• Take a boat tour and view the city from another perspective.

• Pay a visit to the Belfry, the symbol of the city's independence.

• Walk around the Graslei, a medieval port with unique historical buildings. For many, the most beautiful place in the city. On the other side of the water is the Korenlei.

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FOOD AND DRINK

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A city for beer lovers, visit the pub De Dulle Griet, where they offer more than 500 types of beer (try the MAX beer for a moderate price, but you will need to take one of your shoes off!!They will return it to you when you finish your beer). 

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You can try Ganda ham, which is a little bit salty but with a mild taste, at the Old meat market. Ganda ham is served with spicy Ghent mustard.

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My personal recommendation: 

 

• De Dulle Griet, as mentioned above. Large choice of Belgian beers, nice atmosphere and a really fun experience. Address: Vrijdagmarkt 50, 9000 Gent.

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BUDGET

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Around 50€ - 60€ including return ticket to Brussels, food and some shopping.