Gent

A weekend in Ghent sounds like a delightful getaway for you and your husband. With its charming canals, medieval architecture, and vibrant atmosphere, you’re in for a treat. Let’s dive into a fun-filled 3-day itinerary that includes biking, a boat trip, and some lovely dining experiences!

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the City

Morning:

• Arrival in Ghent: Check into a cozy hotel or a charming B&B. I recommend staying near the city center for easy access to attractions.
• Breakfast: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Le Pain Quotidien. Their organic bread and pastries are a perfect way to fuel up!

Mid-Morning:

• Bike Rental: Rent bikes from a local shop (like Gent by Bike) and get ready to explore the city on two wheels. Ghent is very bike-friendly, so you’ll have a blast!

Afternoon:

• Explore the City: Cycle through the historic center, stopping at the Gravensteen Castle. Take a tour and enjoy the views from the top!
• Lunch: Grab a light lunch at De Graslei, where you can enjoy a sandwich or salad while overlooking the picturesque canal.

Evening:

• Boat Trip: After lunch, hop on a boat tour along the canals. It’s a relaxing way to see the city from a different perspective. Look out for the stunning architecture and charming bridges!
• Dinner: For a romantic dinner, head to Restaurant De Graslei. Their menu features local Belgian cuisine, and the ambiance is perfect for a couple’s night out. Don’t forget to try some local beers!

Day 2: Culture and Nature

Morning:

• Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast at your accommodation or try Café Labath for some great coffee and pastries.
• Visit Museums: Spend the morning at the STAM (Ghent City Museum) to learn about the city’s history. If you’re art lovers, consider visiting the Museum of Fine Arts (MSK) as well.

Afternoon:

• Bike Ride to Citadelpark: After the museums, bike over to Citadelpark. It’s a lovely green space where you can relax and enjoy a picnic if the weather is nice.
• Lunch: Pack a picnic or grab a bite at Café de la Paix nearby.

Evening:

• Dinner: Treat yourselves to a special dinner at Pakhuis. This restaurant is known for its stylish decor and delicious dishes, focusing on fresh, local ingredients. Make a reservation to ensure you get a nice table!

Day 3: Relaxation and Departure

Morning:

• Breakfast: Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at Otomat, where you can enjoy some unique pizza creations for breakfast!
• Bike Ride to the Port: After breakfast, take a scenic bike ride to the Port of Ghent. It’s a bit off the beaten path but offers a different vibe and some interesting sights.

Afternoon:

• Visit the Korenlei and Graslei: Cycle back to the city center and take a stroll along the Korenlei and Graslei. These are the most picturesque streets in Ghent, perfect for some last-minute photos.
• Lunch: Enjoy a casual lunch at Bistro de l’Opera, where you can savor some Belgian classics.

Evening:

• Departure: Depending on your travel plans, you might have some time for a final stroll or a quick visit to any spots you missed. If you have time, grab a sweet treat from Patisserie Le Pain de Sucre before you head out!

Tips:

• Make sure to check the weather and dress accordingly, especially for biking and the boat trip.
• Consider booking your restaurant reservations in advance, especially for dinner, to avoid any last-minute disappointments.

I hope this itinerary helps you have a wonderful and romantic weekend in Ghent! Enjoy your trip! 🌷🚴‍♀️🚤🍽️