Ghent, Belgium

Ghent sits at the confluence of the Leie and other waterways in the Flemish Region, linking historic port quarters with low, walkable neighborhoods. Canals carve the city center, so expect frequent riverside viewpoints and cobbled streets.

Arrive by train at Gent-Sint-Pieters or by car via the E17; inner-city travel is easiest by bike, tram or on foot. Taxis and rideshares cover late hours, but avoid driving into the medieval core — parking is limited and paid.

Stroll the riverside at Graslei and Korenlei, climb the Belfry of Ghent, visit the fortified Gravensteen, and don't miss the altarpiece in St. Bavo's Cathedral. These anchor the city’s medieval character and are compact enough to combine in a day.

Base yourself in the historic Patershol for atmosphere, near Vrijdagmarkt for markets and nightlife, or by Gent-Sint-Pieters for fast transit links. Ghent University district offers student energy and budget eats.

The city mixes traditional Flemish taverns serving waterzooi with inventive bistros and street fries stands. Try the cafés along Graslei, bars near Vrijdagmarkt, and late-night spots around the student quarter.

Major museums include MSK (fine arts), SMAK (contemporary art) and the city history museum STAM. Evening concerts and small galleries are frequent; book big-ticket exhibitions in advance.

Relax in Citadelpark or follow canal paths for easy circuit walks and cycling. Urban wildlife includes mute swans (Cygnus olor) on the canals and robins (Erithacus rubecula) in leafy parks — city birding can be rewarding.

Use Gent-Sint-Pieters as your hub to reach Bruges, Brussels, or the port city of Antwerp on day trips under 90 minutes by train. Coastal trips require more time but are doable as full-day outings.

Tap water is safe, cards widely accepted, and emergency number is 112. Watch pickpockets in touristy zones; at night stick to lit, populated streets or use taxis from official stands.

Consider the city card or combined museum pass for savings if you plan multiple paid entries; check timed-entry policies for popular attractions like St. Bavo's Cathedral and Gravensteen.

The annual Gentse Feesten in July is huge — expect music, street theater and crowds. Seasonal Christmas markets light up the canals in winter.

Ghent rewards slow exploration: mix riverside walking, museum time and lively local dining, use trains for day trips, and rely on bikes or trams for short hops. Plan museum bookings and hotel location around your priorities for the smoothest visit.