1 day itinerary for Ghent, Belgium

Itinerary

Good choice! Ghent, Belgium is a charming city with a rich history and plenty of things to see and do. Let's plan an ideal itinerary for one day in Ghent.

Morning: Start your day by exploring the historic center of Ghent. Begin at the iconic Saint Bavo's Cathedral, where you can admire the stunning Gothic architecture and visit the famous Ghent Altarpiece, also known as the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb. Take your time to appreciate the intricate details of this masterpiece.

Afterward, head to the nearby Belfry of Ghent, a medieval tower that offers panoramic views of the city. Climb the 300 steps to the top and enjoy the breathtaking vistas of Ghent's skyline.

Next, make your way to Graslei and Korenlei, two picturesque quays along the River Leie. Here, you can take a leisurely stroll and admire the beautifully preserved medieval buildings that line the waterfront. Don't forget to snap some photos!

Lunch: For lunch, indulge in some delicious Belgian cuisine. Ghent is known for its culinary scene, so you'll have plenty of options. Try some traditional Flemish dishes like waterzooi (a creamy chicken or fish stew) or stoofvlees (beef stew). Pair your meal with a local beer, such as a refreshing Gruut or a strong Tripel Karmeliet.

Afternoon: After lunch, visit the famous Ghent City Hall, a stunning Gothic building located on the historic market square, known as the "Grote Markt." Take a guided tour to learn about the city's history and admire the beautiful interiors.

Next, explore the charming Patershol neighborhood, known for its narrow cobblestone streets and medieval houses. This area is filled with cozy cafes, trendy boutiques, and art galleries. Take your time to wander around and soak up the atmosphere.

If you're interested in art, make sure to visit the Museum of Fine Arts (MSK). It houses an impressive collection of Flemish and Dutch paintings, including works by renowned artists like Jan van Eyck and Hieronymus Bosch.

Evening: As the day comes to an end, head to one of Ghent's lively squares, such as Vrijdagmarkt or Sint-Veerleplein, where you can find a variety of bars and restaurants. Enjoy a relaxing dinner and try some more Belgian specialties, like moules-frites (mussels with fries) or a hearty Flemish beef stew.

After dinner, take a leisurely evening stroll along the canals and enjoy the city's illuminated landmarks. Ghent has a magical atmosphere at night, with its beautifully lit buildings and bridges reflecting on the water.

If you're up for some nightlife, Ghent has a vibrant music and club scene. Check out one of the many live music venues or dance the night away in one of the city's trendy clubs.

That wraps up your ideal one-day itinerary in Ghent, Belgium. Enjoy your time exploring this charming city!