With 5 days in Ghent, you'll have time to experience the city's highlights. This is a city built for discovery on foot. Get lost in the cobbled lanes of the Patershol quarter hunting for the perfect stoofvlees (beef stew), then emerge onto the breathtaking Graslei waterfront, where centuries-old guildhouses reflect in the water.
Why Visit Ghent
Art That Spans Centuries: Witness the revolutionary 'Adoration of the Mystic Lamb' (Ghent Altarpiece), a cornerstone of Western art, and then step outside to discover an ever-changing open-air gallery of world-renowned street art on official walking routes.
A Thriving, Innovative Food Scene: Move beyond clichés to experience a culinary revolution, from Michelin-starred restaurants in ancient buildings to funky food halls like Pakhuis and the legendary Tierenteyn mustard shop in the Vrijdagmarkt.
The Lively Energy of a University Town: The large student population (over 75,000 students) infuses the city with affordable, trendy bars, quirky boutiques, a vibrant nightlife in the Overpoort district, and a youthful, welcoming atmosphere year-round.
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Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival & First Impressions
Start your Ghent adventure by getting your bearings and exploring the city's most iconic landmarks. Take time to soak in the atmosphere and discover why this destination captures the hearts of millions.
St. Bavo's Cathedral (Ghent Altarpiece)
Experience St. Bavo's Cathedral (Ghent Altarpiece), one of Ghent's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into Belgium's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Gravensteen Castle
Experience Gravensteen Castle, one of Ghent's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into Belgium's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Day 2: Local Life & Neighborhoods
Experience Ghent like a local today. Wander through authentic neighborhoods, discover hidden cafes, and get a taste of everyday life in Belgium.
Graslei Waterfront
Experience Graslei Waterfront, one of Ghent's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into Belgium's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Patershol Quarter
Experience Patershol Quarter, one of Ghent's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into Belgium's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Day 3: Art, History & Discovery
Uncover layers of history that shaped Ghent. From ancient remains to modern marvels, today reveals the stories behind the city's evolution.
Street Art Walk
Experience Street Art Walk, one of Ghent's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into Belgium's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Belgian Waffles & Beer
Experience Belgian Waffles & Beer, one of Ghent's beloved attractions that offers a unique glimpse into Belgium's culture and heritage.
💡 Tip: Check opening hours online and consider booking in advance during peak season.
Day 4: Off the Beaten Path
Venture beyond the tourist trail to discover Ghent's lesser-known treasures. These local favorites offer authentic experiences away from the crowds.
Day 5: Last Adventures & Farewell
Savor your last hours in Ghent. Whether it's a final coffee at a favorite spot or one more landmark to check off, make it memorable.
Ready to explore Ghent?
Travel Tips
- 1Book accommodation in the city center for easy access to attractions. Ghent is best explored by combining walking with public transport.
- 2The best time to visit Ghent is April to October. Shoulder seasons offer fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
- 3The local currency is Euro (€). Cards are widely accepted.
- 4A few words in Dutch go a long way with locals. Even "please" and "thank you" will earn smiles.
- 5Download offline maps and translation apps before your trip. WiFi can be spotty in historic areas.
- 65 days gives you time to see the highlights and discover some hidden gems.
Must-Try Food in Ghent
💡 Don't just look down the canals—look up! The city's architecture features incredible gables, gold-leaf decorations, and historic statues that are easy to miss.
Book Activities in Ghent
Skip the line with pre-booked tours and attractions
Neighborhoods to Explore in Ghent
Historic Center (Graslei/Korenlei & Around)
The iconic postcard view of Ghent, centered on the breathtaking Graslei and Korenlei quays with their step-gabled guildhouses.
Patershol
A labyrinth of narrow, cobbled streets just north of the castle, once a leather-working district and now Ghent's premier culinary quarter.
Sint-Pieters & Gent Zuid
A dynamic area anchored by the Sint-Pieters train station and the vast Citadelpark.
Day Trip Ideas
With 5 days in Ghent, you have time for a memorable day trip. Here are some great options nearby:
Bruges (Brugge)
The quintessential medieval fairy-tale city, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Brussels
The vibrant, multicultural capital of Belgium and the EU.
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