Trip to Ghent, Belgium

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Welcome to Ghent! Upon your arrival, head to your hotel to check-in and freshen up from your journey. After that, you can start exploring the city.

Start your journey at Gravensteen, an impressive 900-year-old Castle that was once the seat of the Counts of Flanders. It served as a prison, a courthouse, a mint and even a cotton factory. Nowadays, in addition to its historical and cultural importance, it is also a museum and a venue for various events. Explore the castle and then head to the nearby Korenmarkt. This beautiful square was once the center of the city’s grain trade and was also used for public executions.

Nearby, you will find the famous Ghent Belfry. This 91-metre-tall tower has served as the city’s watchtower, bell tower, and guardhouse for more than 700 years. It is now a symbol of the city and a favorite among visitors, who can enjoy panoramic views of Ghent from the top of the tower. After this, head to the Castle of the Counts, a very powerful landmark of Ghent.

In the evening, Ghent’s festive nightlife is waiting for you. Join a fun-filled pub crawl or spend the evening at one of the many bars and restaurants in the city. You will find lots of traditional Belgian beers to try along with some delicious Flemish cuisine.

Day 2: Art and Culture

Today, take the time to explore the cities famous museums, art galleries, and cultural centers. Start your day at the famous Museum of Fine Arts, which is home to an impressive collection of Flemish and Dutch art. The museum is housed in a grand old palace that dates back to the late 18th century and has beautiful gardens and fountains in the front.

After that, head to the STAM Ghent City Museum. This museum provides fascinating insights into the city’s architecture, landscape, and urban life. The museum is known for its excellent exhibitions and for the variety of interactive activities that it provides throughout the year.

End your day with an evening of classical music. Head to the Opera House, where you can enjoy an opera or a ballet. The building itself is a magnificent 19th-century structure, and the performances are always top-notch.

Day 3: Nature and Parks

Today, a break from the city is in order, so it’s time to immerse yourself in the great outdoors.

Start your journey at the Citadelpark. This park is perfect for a leisurely walk or a jog. The park is home to a number of monuments, sculptures, and gardens, providing you with plenty of interesting things to see and do. You’ll find a playground, tennis court, roller-skating rink, and a pond, as well as the beautiful Castle of the Counts.

After this, head to Blaarmeersen. This park is a beautiful recreational area that offers plenty of water sports activities, including swimming, wakeboarding, and windsurfing. It also houses a mini-golf course, playground, and other outdoor sports facilities.

End your day by indulging in some local food. There are plenty of restaurants in Ghent that serve traditional Flemish cuisine. Be sure to try some of the local specialties like stoofvlees (beef stew), waterzooi (a creamy chicken or fish stew), and, of course, Belgian fries.

Day 4: A Day at the Castle

Begin your day by visiting the castle of Laarne. This historic castle dates back to the Middle Ages and has been beautifully restored. It is now open to the public and is a popular destination for visitors who want to experience the history and tradition of the region.

Later, head to Het Gravensteen, the Castle of the Counts, the only remaining fortress in Flanders with a moat and largely intact defense system. The castle tells the story of accomplishments and setbacks of the Counts of Flanders, who had a major influence on the region’s history. There are guided tours available throughout the day, with knowledgeable guides who will share fascinating tales of the past.

End your day visiting the beautiful Botanic Garden of Ghent, an oasis of peace and tranquility right in the heart of the city. The gardens offer a variety of nature and plant species, giving visitors an opportunity to learn about plants from around the world.

Day 5: Biking in Ghent

One of the best ways to explore Ghent is by bike, so today take a bike toue around the city. There are many rental shops in the city where you can rent a bike, so it’s easy to explore on your own.

Start at the Graslei and Korenlei, two riverside embankments that were once home to the city’s grain trade. Today, these picturesque streets are filled with lively cafes and restaurants and provide some wonderful views of the city.

Continue your journey to the Sint-Baafskathedraal. This Gothic cathedral is an architectural masterpiece and houses some stunning works of art, including the famous painting Adoration of the Mystic Lamb by Jan van Eyck.

In the evening, treat yourself to a fancy dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant. Ghent has plenty of excellent restaurants that offer delicious food and great service.

Day 6: Shopping and More

Today, you will have a full day to explore some of Ghent’s most popular shopping districts and markets.

Begin your day exploring the Vrijdagmarkt, a lively square that has been used for public markets and fairs since the Middle Ages. Here you can shop for all kinds of goodies, from fresh vegetables and fruits to antiques and second-hand clothes.

Then head to the Jan Breydelstraat, where you’ll find many independent and quirky stores. The street is also home to many cozy pubs and cafes that are perfect for a coffee break or an afternoon drink.

In the evening, head to the Patershol district, a historic area of the city known for its charming streets and cozy taverns. Here, you can enjoy some local cuisine and drinks, and get a real taste of Ghent’s unique atmosphere.

Day 7: Departure

Sadly, your week-long trip to Ghent has come to an end. Depending on your flight time, you may have time for one last activity before you depart. Consider taking one last stroll through the city, visiting some of your favorite spots or discovering new ones that you may have missed earlier in your trip.

Finally, make sure you take some time to reflect on the memories you’ve made and enjoy your last moments in this remarkable city before heading to the airport.