Ghent

Beyond its famous landmarks, Ghent is a city of hidden alleys, vibrant street art, and a thriving culinary scene. The Patershol district, with its winding medieval streets, is a haven for food lovers, offering everything from traditional Flemish stews to international cuisine. The city's commitment to sustainability is evident in its extensive pedestrian zones and its reputation as the vegetarian capital of Europe.

Art enthusiasts will be captivated by the Museum of Fine Arts (MSK) and the contemporary exhibits at S.M.A.K. Meanwhile, history buffs can delve into the city's industrial past at the Museum of Industry. Whether you are sipping a local Gruut beer brewed with medieval herbs or admiring the illuminated skyline at night, Ghent promises a memorable and multifaceted travel experience.

Reasons to Visit

• To see the world-famous Ghent Altarpiece (The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb) by the Van Eyck brothers.
• To explore the Gravensteen, a remarkably preserved medieval castle right in the city center.
• To experience the vibrant and authentic atmosphere of a historic university city.
• To enjoy scenic boat tours along the beautiful Graslei and Korenlei canals.
• To taste exceptional Belgian beers and traditional Flemish cuisine.

Things to Avoid

• Avoid driving in the city center; the pedestrian zone is strictly enforced and parking is expensive.
• Don't assume everyone speaks French; Ghent is in the Flemish (Dutch-speaking) part of Belgium.
• Avoid walking in the designated bicycle lanes to prevent accidents with local cyclists.
• Don't miss out on trying local specialties by only eating at international fast-food chains.

Local Transportation Tips

Ghent boasts a highly efficient and easy-to-use public transportation network operated by De Lijn, featuring extensive tram and bus routes. The city center is largely car-free, making walking the most enjoyable way to explore the historic sights. Bicycling is deeply ingrained in the local culture, and visitors can easily rent bikes to navigate the city's extensive network of cycle paths. For a unique perspective, water trams and guided boat tours offer a relaxing way to see the city from its canals.

Travel Etiquette

• Greet shopkeepers and restaurant staff with a polite 'Hallo' or 'Goedemorgen/middag' when entering.
• Tipping is not mandatory as service is included in the bill, but rounding up or leaving a few euros for good service is appreciated.
• Respect the cycling culture; always look both ways before crossing a bike lane.
• Keep noise levels down in residential areas, especially late at night.

Recommended Age Group

Ghent is a versatile destination that caters to a wide range of travelers, offering activities and sights suitable for all ages.

• Babies (0-2 years): Neutral. While the city is safe, the cobblestone streets can make navigating with a stroller challenging.
• Kids (3-12 years): Recommended. Children will love exploring the Gravensteen castle and taking boat rides on the canals.
• Teens (13-19 years): Recommended. The vibrant street art, trendy cafes, and interactive museums appeal to younger travelers.
• Adults (20-64 years): Recommended. The mix of history, culinary excellence, and nightlife makes it perfect for adult travelers.
• Seniors (65+ years): Recommended. The compact, walkable city center and abundance of cultural sites are ideal, though comfortable footwear is a must for the cobblestones.

Accessibility Level: Medium

• Many major museums and attractions, such as the MSK and St. Bavo's Cathedral, are wheelchair accessible.
• The historic city center features cobblestone streets, which can be bumpy and challenging for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues.
• Public transport (trams and buses) generally offers low-floor access, but it's advisable to check specific routes in advance.
• Accessible public restrooms are available in major public buildings and museums.

Did You Know?

Ghent was one of the largest and richest cities in northern Europe during the Middle Ages, second only to Paris in size. Its wealth was primarily built on the production and trade of luxury woolen cloth.

Cool Statistics

• Ghent is home to over 80,000 students, making it the largest student city in Belgium.
• The city has the largest designated car-free city center in Belgium.
• The Ghent Altarpiece is considered the most frequently stolen artwork in history.
• Ghent promotes 'Donderdag Veggiedag' (Thursday Veggie Day) to encourage meat-free eating once a week.