The best tips for a weekend in Ghent
Looking for a fun and cosy weekend away close to home? We recommend Ghent: a city full of medieval charm, lively squares, hip shops and delicious restaurants. Sights such as Gravensteen castle, a boat trip on the Leie, the Graslei and Korenlei and cosy pubs take centre stage. In July the city is extra lively thanks to the Gentse Feesten, an experience you should not miss!
A weekend away in Belgium?
Then, as far as we are concerned, Ghent is one of the best choices. We have visited Ghent several times and notice every time how lovely this city is: compact, atmospheric, historic and young at the same time. Everything is within walking distance, the food is good and the atmosphere is relaxed. In this article we share our personal tips for a successful weekend in Ghent.
How do you get to Ghent?
From Amsterdam it is about 220 kilometres by car, around 2.5 to 3 hours depending on the traffic. The centre of Ghent is largely car-free. We usually park at a park-and-ride on the edge of the city and continue by public transport. Parking in the centre is possible too, but it is more expensive and often busy. Ghent is also easy to reach by train. From Amsterdam you travel via Brussels to Gent-Sint-Pieters in about 2.5 hours. From the station you are in the centre in about 10 minutes by tram.
How many days do you need for Ghent?
For a weekend in Ghent, 2 to 3 nights is ideal. In two nights you see the most important highlights; with three nights you can take it easier and discover extra neighbourhoods. But if you live close to the border, even one night is perfectly doable!
When is the best time to visit Ghent?
Ghent is fun all year round, but spring and summer are our favourite seasons. Ideal for long, cosy evenings on a sunny terrace. In winter it is atmospheric too, especially around the holidays when there is a Christmas market in the city.
What are the best sights in Ghent?
Visit Gravensteen castle in Ghent
Gravensteen is without a doubt one of the best-known sights in Ghent and a must during a weekend away. This medieval castle lies right in the centre and gives you a unique glimpse into the history of the city. Inside you discover how the Counts of Flanders lived and ruled here, complete with weapons, dungeons and stories about the Middle Ages. It is great fun to do an audio tour here!
What we found particularly special is that from the battlements you look out over the rooftops of Ghent. The contrast between old and new makes this one of the most photogenic places in the city. Feel free to set aside an hour and a half to two hours for it.
Graslei and Korenlei: the heart of Ghent
Together, the Graslei and Korenlei form the most iconic part of Ghent. These historic quays along the Leie are known for their beautiful guild houses and lively atmosphere. During the day it is pleasantly busy here; in the evening the lights and the water create an almost romantic setting. We love coming here during our weekends in Ghent: for a walk, a drink or just to sit by the water and watch the world go by.
Take a boat trip on the Leie
A boat trip on the Leie is one of the most relaxing ways to discover Ghent. From the water you see the city from a completely different perspective. You sail past historic façades, the castle, bridges and well-known places such as the Graslei and Korenlei, while getting information about the history of Ghent along the way. Want something a bit more adventurous? Then go kayaking on the Leie!
Climb the Belfry of Ghent
If you want a good overview of the city, a visit to the Belfry of Ghent is recommended. This imposing tower is part of Ghent's famous trio of towers and is on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
You can go up by lift and a short flight of stairs, where you are rewarded with a panoramic view over the city centre. Especially in clear weather you see how compact Ghent actually is, which makes it perfect for a weekend away.
Shopping in Ghent
Shopping is an important part of a weekend in Ghent. Unlike in many other cities, shopping here feels less mainstream. Around the Veldstraat you will find well-known chain stores, but it is the side streets that are fun for boutiques, concept stores and vintage shops.
We think Ghent is particularly strong in local and creative shops, which makes shopping here feel just a bit more personal. Ideal if you like to take home something other than a standard souvenir.
Restaurants and pubs in Ghent
Ghent is known as a city that loves the good life, and you notice that straight away. During a weekend in Ghent you can choose from countless restaurants, from simple and affordable to fine dining. We love eating in the Patershol neighbourhood and on the Jan Breydelstraat, where there are lots of small, atmospheric restaurants, such as Giri, De Stokerij, Pampas Rodizio and Tapasbar la Malcontenta.
Ghent is a great place for a drink too. The city has a strong beer culture and many cafés serve local and Belgian specialty beers, for example Dulle Griet and the Trollenkelder. Especially in the evening, when the city is beautifully lit, there is a cosy and relaxed atmosphere.
The Gentse Feesten in July
If you plan your weekend in Ghent in July, there is a good chance you will experience the Gentse Feesten. This ten-day city festival is one of the biggest cultural events in Belgium and turns the whole city into one big open-air party. All over the centre you will find stages, street performers, live music and theatre, often simply free to attend.
It is good to know that Ghent is extra busy during this period. Accommodation gets booked up faster and prices are often higher than usual. It can also be noisy until late at night, especially if you are staying in the centre. If you are looking for peace and quiet and a relaxed city trip, July is not the best month. But if you want to experience the city at its liveliest, the Gentse Feesten are a unique experience that will make your weekend in Ghent unforgettable.
Tip: if you go to Ghent during the Gentse Feesten, book your accommodation well in advance and consider staying just outside the centre. That way you combine the fun of the festival with a bit more peace and quiet.
Where to stay in Ghent
For a weekend in Ghent we usually go for comfort and location. These are the best options per type of traveller:
Hotels in the centre: Ideal if you want to do everything on foot. You are close to restaurants, sights and the nightlife. Expect slightly higher prices, especially at the weekend.
Hotels near Gent-Sint-Pieters station: Perfect if you are travelling by train. Good connections to the centre and often a bit cheaper. We have stayed here several times and found it very practical.
Apartments: A great choice if you are travelling with several people or want more space. Especially handy if you are staying 3 nights or longer.
Our favourites: Hotels in the centre: 1898 The post, Hotel Gravensteen, Hotel Monasterium PoortAckere Hotels near the station: Hotel Astoria Gent, Chambre d'Amis by Alix Apartments: 2-bedroom apartment right in the centre, Margriet Apart Suites, 2-bedroom apartment opposite Gravensteen castle
Conclusion: is Ghent suitable for a weekend away?
Absolutely. Ghent is compact, easy to reach and has just the right mix of culture, food and conviviality. Whether you come for the history, the shopping or to enjoy the good life: a weekend in Ghent is never boring and always fun. We love coming back here for a short city trip.
Practical tips for Ghent
Before you go
On the ground
Frequently asked questions about a weekend in Ghent
How many days do you need for Ghent? +
For a weekend in Ghent, 2 to 3 nights is ideal. In two nights you see the most important highlights; with three nights you can take it easier and discover extra neighbourhoods. If you live close to the border, one night is also perfectly doable.
How do you get to Ghent by train? +
From Amsterdam you travel via Brussels to Gent-Sint-Pieters in about 2.5 hours. From the station you are in the centre in about 10 minutes by tram.
Can you drive to Ghent and where do you park? +
From Amsterdam it is about 220 kilometres, around 2.5 to 3 hours. The centre is largely car-free. We usually park at a park-and-ride on the edge of the city and continue by public transport; parking in the centre is possible too, but it is more expensive and often busy.
When is the best time to visit Ghent? +
Ghent is fun all year round, but spring and summer are our favourites, ideal for long evenings on a terrace. In winter it is atmospheric, especially around the holidays with the Christmas market.
What are the best sights in Ghent? +
Visit Gravensteen castle, walk along the Graslei and Korenlei, take a boat trip on the Leie and climb the Belfry for a view over the city. Ghent is also great for shopping and eating out.
Where is the best place to stay in Ghent? +
If you want to do everything on foot, choose a hotel in the centre. If you are travelling by train, hotels near Gent-Sint-Pieters station are practical and often a bit cheaper. With several people or for 3 nights or longer, an apartment is a great choice.
When are the Gentse Feesten? +
The Gentse Feesten take place in July and last ten days. The city is extra busy then, accommodation gets booked up faster and is more expensive, and it can be noisy until late. Book well in advance or choose a place to stay just outside the centre.
Is Ghent suitable for a weekend away? +
Absolutely. Ghent is compact, easy to reach and has just the right mix of culture, food and conviviality.