Ghent is the Belgian city we know best, because we lived there. Lore studied in Ghent for five years, and for two of those years we rented a small studio together. We have written about it briefly in our Belgian weekend away guide. Here we go a bit deeper on what we would tell a friend who asks us how to enjoy Ghent: go early, walk the water and take your time.
At a glance
- How long: A morning or a day trip
- Best time: April–June and September–October; December for the lights
- Getting there: Direct trains from Brussels, Antwerp and Bruges
- Good for: Photography, early risers and slow city walks
Top sights
- Graslei and Korenlei
- Sunrise at the canals
- St Michael’s Bridge
- Gravensteen castle
- The old centre
Why Ghent keeps people
A lot of people who study in Ghent never leave the city again, and after two years in our little studio we understand why. It is a student city with a lively feel, but the old centre is also genuinely beautiful. The historic buildings, the stone bridges and the quays along the water make it easy to spend a whole day just walking around. Both of us grew up in a village, and we have also lived in London, so we know what we like about city life. Ghent has the charm of a historic city without feeling overwhelming.
Our best tip: see Ghent at sunrise
One summer morning in 2020 we set an alarm for around 5 AM to take photos in the city. We both love a good sunrise, but we are not really morning people, so it took some effort. It was worth it. Hardly anyone was out, and places that are normally full of people were empty and peaceful, so we could properly enjoy the beauty of the city.
If you want Ghent without the crowds, or if you like taking photos like we do, early morning is the moment. The light is soft, the cobbled quays are quiet and you can take your time for a photo without anyone walking through the frame.
What to look at along the water
Most of our photos were taken along the quays and bridges in the old centre, with the gabled houses and historic buildings of the city as a backdrop. You do not need a fixed route for this. Walk along the water, cross a bridge or two and look up: the facades are what make the city so photogenic.
Good to know
- Go early for empty streets and the best light. Even a sleepy sunrise walk gives you a different city than the midday one.
- Wear comfortable shoes. The quays and streets in the old centre are cobbled.
- Ghent is easy to combine with other Belgian cities. Bruges is a very different, fairytale day out: see our 10 favourite things to do in Bruges.
- Planning a city break with a hotel night? Our stay in the capital is in Hotel Highlights: Hilton Brussels Grand Place.
- Most visitors arrive by train, since Belgian cities are well connected. Check the current timetables before you go.
FAQ
Is Ghent worth visiting?
We think so. We lived there for two years and still enjoy going back. The historic centre, the quays and the bridges are beautiful, and the city feels lively because of the many students.
When is the best time of day for photos in Ghent?
Early morning. We went around sunrise, and the city was quiet and peaceful, with far fewer people than later in the day.
How many days do you need in Ghent?
For a first visit a weekend is enough to enjoy the old centre. We also like to combine it with Brussels or Bruges in one trip, as in our Belgian weekend guide.
Ghent is our old home, and it still feels a bit like it. Set that alarm once and see it the way we did.
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