2 day itinerary for Ghent, Belgium

Itinerary

Ghent is such a charming city with a perfect blend of history, culture, and delicious food. Here’s a delightful 2-day itinerary that will help you soak in the best of what Ghent has to offer!

## Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Ghent

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Café: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a cozy café like Café Labath. Try their delicious coffee and a fresh pastry or a traditional Belgian waffle to fuel up for the day!

• Gravensteen Castle: After breakfast, head to the iconic Gravensteen Castle. This medieval castle is a must-see! Explore its impressive architecture, climb to the top for stunning views of the city, and learn about its fascinating history.

Midday:

• St. Bavo's Cathedral: Next, stroll over to St. Bavo's Cathedral. Don’t miss the famous Adoration of the Mystic Lamb painting by the Van Eyck brothers. The cathedral itself is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.

• Lunch at De Graslei: For lunch, make your way to the picturesque Graslei area. Grab a bite at De Graslei or Pakhuis, where you can enjoy local dishes while overlooking the beautiful canals.

Afternoon:

• Walk Along the Canals: After lunch, take a leisurely walk along the canals. The views are simply stunning, and you’ll find plenty of photo opportunities with the medieval buildings reflecting in the water.

• Museum of Fine Arts: If you’re an art lover, pop into the Museum of Fine Arts (MSK). It houses an impressive collection of Flemish art, including works from the 14th to the 20th century.

Evening:

• Dinner in the City Center: For dinner, head to De Graslei or Bistro de l’Opera for some traditional Belgian cuisine. Try the waterzooi (a creamy chicken or fish stew) or some local mussels!

• Evening Stroll: After dinner, take a stroll through the illuminated streets of Ghent. The Korenlei and Graslei are particularly magical at night. You might even want to stop for a drink at a local bar and try some Belgian beer!

## Day 2: Culture and Relaxation

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Bakery: Start your day with a visit to a local bakery like Bakery ‘t Koetshuis for some fresh bread and pastries. Pair it with a cup of coffee to kickstart your day!

• Visit the STAM Museum: Head to the STAM (Ghent City Museum) to learn about the city’s history through interactive exhibits. It’s a great way to get a deeper understanding of Ghent’s past and present.

Midday:

• Visit the Patershol District: After the museum, wander through the charming Patershol district. This area is filled with narrow streets and quaint houses. It’s a great spot for some unique shopping or just to soak in the atmosphere.

• Lunch at a Local Eatery: For lunch, try Pakhuis or De Graslei again if you loved it! Alternatively, you can find a cozy spot in Patershol for some local specialties.

Afternoon:

• Visit the Citadelpark: After lunch, take a relaxing stroll in Citadelpark. It’s a lovely green space where you can unwind, and you might even find some local artists showcasing their work.

• Visit the Design Museum: If you’re into design, the Design Museum Ghent is a fantastic stop. It showcases contemporary design and has some interesting exhibitions.

Evening:

• Dinner at a Local Restaurant: For your final dinner in Ghent, consider dining at Restaurant De Graslei or Osteria for a cozy atmosphere and delicious food. Don’t forget to try some Belgian chocolate for dessert!

• Nightcap at a Local Bar: End your trip with a nightcap at a local bar. Dulle Griet is a fun spot known for its extensive beer selection. You can even try the famous Max beer served in a unique way!

And there you have it! A delightful 2-day itinerary in Ghent that balances history, culture, and culinary delights. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures! 🌍✨