Ghent (Gent in dutch) is the capital of the province East-Flanders.
It’s also the third largest city in the country after Brussels and Antwerp.
The city started as a settlement next to the river Scheldt and Leie. In the late middle ages it had become one of the largest flourishing cities and richest cities in northern Europe. Therefore the city is packed with history, art and culture.
Travel to Ghent
Are you traveling from Brussels to Bruges? Then Ghent is located in the middle of your route!
Both Brussels and Antwerp are only 60km away from Ghent. Bruges is another 50km ahead.
It’s the perfect stop on your trip through Flanders.
Visit Ghent by train:
There are trains to Ghent running from all nearby major Belgian cities.
Brussels is only 40 minutes away, Antwerpen about 50 minutes.
From Ghent, the train ride to Bruges takes only 25 minutes.
| Brussels | 5 trains / hour | 40 mins |
| Antwerp | 3 trains / hour | 50 mins |
| Bruges | 5 trains / hour | 25 mins |
For more information about the trains in Belgium, check the Belgian Public Transport guide: https://www.belgiumtravel.info/en/belgium-public-transport-guide/
Visit Ghent by car:
If you plan on visiting Ghent by car, please keep in mind that motorized vehicles are banned in a large part of the city. In addition there is also a LEZ (Low Emission Zone) in place, preventing access of older, unregistered combustion engine cars. Therefore it is best to park your car at one of the many Park & Rides on the outskirts of the city and use the free shuttle busses from there.
Car travelers who wish to spend the night in Ghent should always inform about the traffic restrictions, LEZ-Zone and parking possibilities of their accommodation.
Stay in Ghent
Getting around in Ghent
The historic city centre of Ghent can be easily explored on foot and is very pedestrian friendly. Locals also love to use the bike for getting around. The city has excellent cycling infrastructure with nearly 400km’s of designated cycling paths. Throughout the city there are several companies who offer rental bikes.
When arriving at the Ghent railway station, you can use the local public transport to reach your accommodation, which will cost you max. 3€. Alternatively you can also take a much more expensive taxi or Uber to reach your destination.
Public transport in Ghent
The busses and tram lines in Ghent are operated by De Lijn. Single Tickets cost 3€ and are valid for 60 minutes. Within this time period you can change lines unlimited. After the 60 minutes you can continue your ride towards your destination. If you need to change lines again, you need to buy a new ticket.
For more information about the busses and trams in Flanders check the Belgian Public
Discover Ghent
Traveling on a tight budget or not, sightseeing and exploring the historical city center is probably the best way to spend your time in Ghent.
Don’t want to explore the city alone? No problem, you can always join a free daily walking tour. More information: http://gentfreewalkingtours.com/
Things to see and do in Ghent:
5 things you MUST see in Ghent:
- Korenlei and Graslei
- Saint Michel’s Bridge
- Gravensteen Castle
- Saint Bavo Cathedral
- Ghent Belfry
Musea in Ghent:
- S.M.A.K Museum for contemporary Arts
- M.S.K: Museum for Fine-Arts
- S.T.A.M Ghent City Museum
- Design Museum Gent
Gent Citycard
Are you planning to stay in Ghent for 48h or more? Then you definitely should pick up the Gent Citycard. Not only does this card offer you free public transport, it also gives you access to al the top attractions in Ghent.
The Ghent citycard is available for 48h or 72 hours. The 48h citycard costs 38€ whilst the 72h citycard costs 44€.
Ghent Tourist Map
The map below features most of Ghents popular things to see and do. You can save it to your google maps account for later use on your smartphone.