As the summer holidays are in full swing, growing numbers of holidaymakers are looking for lesser-known destinations that aren’t overrun with tourists. For those craving stunning landscapes and rich culture, one European spot should be top of the list.
The city blends a rich medieval heritage with a vibrant contemporary culture. Its beautifully preserved historic centre, lively canals, and thriving student community create an atmosphere that feels both timeless and energetic. Often seen as a quieter alternative to Bruges, Ghent offers all the charm of a historic Belgian city while maintaining the character and rhythm of a place where people genuinely live, work and study.
Entering Ghent feels like travelling through time, as the city features an abundance of beautifully preserved medieval structures.
Overlooking its picturesque canals, Gravensteen Castle offers a fascinating journey back to the Middle Ages. Visitors can explore its imposing stone walls, towering battlements and centuries-old rooms while discovering what life was like inside one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval fortresses.
Constructed in 1180 by Philip of Alsace, Count of Flanders, the castle was built as both a powerful symbol of authority and a defensive stronghold. Gravensteen means “Castle of the Counts” – a fitting title for a fortress that once served as the seat of the Counts of Flanders.
Tourists can wander through its ramparts and underground chambers while discovering stories of medieval warriors and aristocracy.
Visitors can get around Ghent by foot or bicycle (Image: Getty)
One of the finest ways to appreciate Ghent’s charm is by embarking on a relaxing boat trip along its delightful canals. Drift past historic structures and beneath attractive bridges while taking in the city’s architectural treasures from a distinctive vantage point.
However, no trip to Ghent would be truly complete without savouring its culinary favourites.
From classic Belgian waffles and chocolate to rich Flemish stews and delectable seafood dishes, Ghent presents a mouth-watering range of gastronomic adventures to delight every taste.
Visitors can enjoy al fresco dining at delightful canal-side cafes or taste local specialities at intimate taverns nestled along cobblestone streets.
Ghent is an hour’s train ride from Brussels (Image: Getty)
Ghent is widely regarded as one of Belgium’s most rewarding city breaks. While it shares many of Bruges’ historic charms, its thriving local culture and more relaxed pace make it a favourite for travellers looking to experience an authentic Belgian city.
Visitors can discover Ghent’s pedestrian-friendly streets on foot or by bicycle, minimising their carbon footprint while soaking up the city’s distinctive atmosphere.
Most visitors will find that two to three days is enough to explore Ghent’s main attractions while leaving plenty of time to wander its waterfront, relax in its cafés and soak up the city’s lively evening atmosphere. Its central location also makes it an ideal base for day trips to Brussels, Bruges and Antwerp.
Ghent has a fascinating historical past (Image: Getty)
Getting to Ghent
Saldy, there are not any direct flights directly to Ghent, as the city doesn’t have its own airport. However, most travellers from the UK fly to Brussels Airport, then take a train to Ghent.
Typical flight times are:
- London to Brussels: Around one hour to one hour 15 minutes
- Manchester to Brussels: Around one hour 20 minutes
- Birmingham to Brussels: Around one hour 15 minutes
- Edinburgh to Brussels: Around one hour 40 minutes
From Brussels Airport, it’s approximately:
- 15–20 minutes by train to Brussels city centre (if changing there)
- Or 55–70 minutes by direct train to Ghent-Sint-Pieters station, depending on the service