20 historical buildings to visit in Ghent

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So much to see and so little time! Spend the night in Ghent or take a guided tour.

Ghent, the charming city in the heart of Belgium, is home to a wealth of historical landmarks and architectural gems that have stood the test of time. From medieval castles and Gothic cathedrals to neoclassical palaces and Art Nouveau masterpieces, Ghent’s rich history and diverse cultural influences are reflected in its magnificent buildings. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at 20 of the most impressive historical buildings in Ghent, each with its own unique story and significance. These iconic landmarks are sure to leave a lasting impression.

There are of course many more historic buildings in Ghent, but with these 20 buildings, you have already seen a lot of ghent.

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1 Gravensteen

Gravensteen, located in the heart of Ghent, is a medieval castle that dates back to the 12th century. This impressive fortress was once the residence of the Counts of Flanders and played an important role in the city’s history.

Today, visitors can explore the castle and its many rooms, including the Great Hall, where important meetings and banquets were held, and the dungeon, where prisoners were kept. The castle also houses a museum that showcases artifacts from its past, including weapons and armor.

One of the highlights of a visit to Gravensteen is climbing the castle’s battlements, which offer breathtaking views of Ghent’s cityscape. Visitors can also take a stroll in the castle’s courtyard.

Location: Sint-Veerleplein 11

2 Sint-Baafs kathedraal

Saint Bavo Cathedral, is a stunning Gothic-style church located in the heart of Ghent. The cathedral was built in the 14th and 15th centuries and is named after Saint Bavo, the patron saint of Ghent.

The cathedral’s interior is filled with magnificent works of art, including several stunning stained-glass windows, a marble altar, and several intricate sculptures. The most famous work of art in the cathedral is the Ghent Altarpiece, a masterpiece of Northern Renaissance art that was painted by Jan and Hubert van Eyck in the 15th century. This remarkable work of art is known for its incredible detail and realism and is considered one of the greatest works of art in the world.

Visitors to the cathedral can also take a guided tour, which provides an in-depth look at the history and architecture of this remarkable building. The tour takes visitors to the top of the cathedral’s tower, where they can enjoy stunning views of the city of Ghent.

Location: Sint-Baafsplein

3 Sint-Niklaaskerk

St. Nicholas’ Church, a stunning Gothic-style church is located in the center of Ghent. Built in the 13th century, the church is named after Saint Nicholas, the patron saint of merchants and sailors.

The exterior of the church is a breathtaking example of Gothic architecture, with intricate carvings and ornate detailing. The interior is equally impressive, with towering columns and beautiful stained-glass windows.

One of the highlights of a visit to Sint Niklaaskerk is the opportunity to climb the church tower, which offers stunning views of the city. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the church, which provides insight into its history and architecture.

It is a visit destination for anyone interested in Gothic architecture, religious history, or organ music. Its stunning beauty and rich history make it a true gem of Ghent.

Location: Korenmarkt

4 Belfort en Lakenhalle

The Belfry and Cloth Hall of Ghent are two historic buildings located next to each other in the heart of the city. The Belfry is a medieval tower that served as a watchtower and bell tower for the city, while the Cloth Hall was a former marketplace for textiles and fabrics.

The Belfry is an impressive 91-meter tower that offers visitors a stunning view over the city. Climbing the tower is a challenge, but the view from the top is worth it. Inside the tower, there is also a carillon with 54 bells that are still regularly played.

The Cloth Hall is a beautiful Gothic building with an open-air market on the ground floor and a museum on the top floor. The museum provides a fascinating glimpse into the history of textile production and trade in Ghent, and visitors can learn about the many different types of fabrics that were produced in the city.

The combination of the Belfry and the Cloth Hall makes this location an important attraction for tourists interested in the history and culture of Ghent. The buildings are beautifully preserved and offer a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past.

Location: Sint-Baafsplein

5 Stadhuis

The City Hall of Ghent is a magnificent Gothic building built in the late 16th century, the building served as the administrative center for the city’s government.

The façade of the City Hall is adorned with ornate decorations, including statues of prominent figures such as Emperor Charles V and the counts of Flanders. The interior of the building is equally impressive, with grand staircases, vaulted ceilings, and stunning works of art.

Visitors can take a guided tour of the City Hall to learn about its history and architecture. The tour includes a visit to the Council Chamber, where the city’s government officials still meet today. The Council Chamber is adorned with beautiful murals depicting scenes from the city’s history.

Another highlight of the City Hall is the stunning Wedding Room, where couples can get married in a beautiful setting surrounded by exquisite artwork and decorative features.

The City Hall of Ghent is a must-see attraction for visitors to the city. Its stunning Gothic architecture, rich history, and beautiful artwork make it a true gem of the city’s cultural heritage.

Location: Botermarkt 1

6 Huis van Alijn

The Huis van Alijn is a museum located in the city of Ghent in Belgium that is dedicated to showcasing everyday life in the 20th century. The museum is housed in a historic building in the city center and provides insight into the lives of ordinary people through a collection of objects, photographs, and documents.

The museum is named after the book of the same name by the Flemish writer and Nobel Prize winner Maurice Maeterlinck, which is an ode to his childhood in Ghent. The Huis van Alijn is therefore a tribute to the common man and woman who lived and worked in Ghent.

Visitors can view various exhibitions at the museum and participate in activities aimed at preserving the heritage of the city and sharing knowledge about everyday life in the 20th century. The museum is a popular destination for tourists interested in history and culture.

Location: Kraanlei 65

7 St-Michielsbrug en kerk

St. Michael’s Bridge and Church are landmarks in the city of Ghent, located in the Flemish region of Belgium. The St. Michael’s Bridge is a historic bridge that spans the River Leie, connecting the Korenmarkt and Graslei areas of the city. The bridge dates back to the medieval period, with the current structure being built in the 1930s.

The St. Michael’s Church is a Roman Catholic church located at the end of the bridge on the Korenmarkt side. The church has a long and complex history, with the current building dating back to the 18th century. The church has a beautiful interior, with Baroque and Rococo features, including a high altar and ornate pulpit.

Both the St. Michael’s Bridge and Church are popular tourist attractions in Ghent, with visitors admiring the beautiful architecture and learning about the history of the city. The view from the bridge of the river and the city skyline is particularly stunning and makes for great photo opportunities.

Location: Sint-Michielsplein

8 St-Pieters Abdij

St. Peter’s Abbey, or St-Pietersabdij in Dutch, is a former Benedictine monastery. The abbey was founded in the 7th century and played an important role in the religious and cultural life of Ghent for many centuries.

The current abbey buildings date back to the 18th century, with a mixture of Gothic and Baroque architectural styles. The abbey church is particularly notable, with its beautiful stained glass windows and impressive high altar. The abbey also houses a museum, which contains a collection of religious art and artifacts from the abbey’s long history.

Today, St. Peter’s Abbey is no longer a functioning monastery but has been repurposed for cultural and educational purposes. It is home to a cultural center, exhibition space, and a library. The abbey is also used for concerts and events, and visitors can enjoy guided tours of the abbey and its beautiful gardens.

St. Peter’s Abbey is a popular attraction in Ghent, particularly for visitors interested in history, art, and architecture. The abbey offers a fascinating glimpse into the religious and cultural heritage of Ghent and is well worth a visit.

Location: Sint-Pietersplein 9

9 St-Pieterskerk

St. Peter’s Church is a popular tourist attraction in Ghent and is well worth a visit for those interested in history, art, and architecture. The church offers a fascinating glimpse into the religious and cultural heritage of Ghent and is an important part of the city’s cultural landscape.

Location: Sint-Pietersplein

10 Groot Vleeshuis

The Great Butchers’ Hall is a historic building in the center of Ghent. The building dates back to the 15th century and was originally used as a meat market and guildhall for the city’s butchers.

The building was used as a promotional center for Flemish regional products until 2021.

It is now empty and waiting for a new application.

Location: Groentenmarkt 7

11 Opera Gent

The Opera House is a historic theater in the heart of the city. The building dates back to the 19th century and is considered one of the finest examples of neoclassical architecture in Belgium.

The Opera House hosts a variety of musical and theatrical performances throughout the year, including opera, ballet, and classical music concerts. The main auditorium features a beautiful ceiling painting and ornate balconies.

The Opera House is an important cultural institution in Ghent. With its beautiful architecture, world-class performances, it offers a unique and memorable experience for visitors to the city.

Location: Schouwburgstraat 3

12 De Vooruit

De Vooruit is a cultural center and performing arts venue. The building dates back to the early 20th century and was originally a socialist workers’ cooperative, known as the Vooruit (meaning “Forward” in Dutch).

Today, De Vooruit is one of the most important cultural institutions in Ghent, hosting a wide range of performances, concerts, exhibitions, and events throughout the year. The center features multiple performance spaces, including a main auditorium, as well as smaller theaters, galleries, and meeting rooms.

In addition to its cultural offerings, De Vooruit also houses a popular cafe and bar, serving a variety of food and drink options in a relaxed and sociable atmosphere. The restaurant and bar are popular meeting places for locals and visitors alike and offer a lively and vibrant hub of activity in the heart of the city.

Location: Sint-Pietersnieuwstraat 23

13 Korenstapelhuis of De Spijker

The Korenstapelhuis is also known as the Spijker. The building dates back to the 14th century and was originally used as a grain storehouse.

The Korenstapelhuis is an important example of Gothic architecture in Ghent, with distinctive stepped gable and ornate stone carvings. The building is now used as a cultural center and exhibition space, hosting a variety of art and history exhibits throughout the year.

One of the most striking features of the Korenstapelhuis is its location on the scenic Graslei waterfront, with beautiful views of the city’s medieval skyline and the adjacent Leie river. The building is a popular spot for photographers and tourists, as well as locals looking for a quiet place to enjoy the city’s historic charm.

The Korenstapelhuis is a testament to Ghent’s rich cultural and economic history and is an important landmark in the city.

Location: Graslei

14 Havenhuis

The Guildhall of the Free Boatmen is on Graslei and has a rich history. It was owned by the Guild of the Free Boatmen from the mid-16th century until the second half of the 17th century. Afterward, the building in Brabantine Gothic style changed owner and purpose several times.

It’s one of the best preserved and oldest buildings in Ghent’s old port and has been listed as a monument since 1943.

Location: Graslei

15 Geeraard de duivelsteen

Geeraard the Devil Castle is a 13th century gothic architecture building in Ghent. It served as defense of the Portus Ganda, the city’s port.

The building will soon be converted into luxury flats and event spaces.

Location: Geeraard de Duivelstraat 1

Traveltoer-Geeraard-de-duivelsteen-Ghent

16 Mammelokker

The mammelokker is a former jailer’s house that was built against the belfry and cloth house and was completed in 1741. It bears the same name as the sculpture above the entrance.

The building is currently used by the Ombuds service of Ghent.

Location: Botermarkt 17

17 Masons’ Guild Hall

The Masons’ Guild Hall in Ghent, also known as the “Metselaarshuis” in Dutch, is a historic building built in the 18th century and served as the headquarters of the Masons’ Guild, a medieval trade organization that represented stonemasons and other skilled workers in the construction industry.

The building is located on the Vrijdagmarkt square in the heart of the city and features a beautiful facade adorned with intricate carvings and statues. It is a prime example of Flemish Baroque architecture and is considered a landmark of the city.

Location: Sint-Niklaasstraat 2

18 Post plaza

The Old Post Office building located on Graslei 16 in Ghent is a historic building that was built in the 19th century. It served as the main post office of Ghent until the early 2000s when it was vacated and subsequently renovated and repurposed.

The building is situated on the picturesque Graslei quay, which is known for its beautiful row of historic buildings and charming waterfront views. The architecture of the Old Post Office building is characterized by its neoclassical style, featuring a grand facade adorned with columns, arches, and ornate details.

Today, the building houses a variety of businesses and cultural institutions. Visitors can admire the building’s historic features while enjoying the modern amenities and services it now provides. The Old Post Office building is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike and is considered a landmark of the city of Ghent.

Location: Korenmarkt 16

19 Royal Dutch theater

NTGent is a modern theater company that produces contemporary plays and performances, often with a political or social message, and is known for its experimental and innovative approach to theater.

NTGent is located in a historic building in the heart of Ghent and features a large theater with a capacity of up to 800 people, as well as several smaller performance spaces. The theater is well-known for its high-quality productions and has gained international recognition for its work.

Location: Sint-Baafsplein 17

20 Gerechtshof

Het Gerechtshof is a historic courthouse built in the 19th century in a neoclassical style and is located in the heart of the city, near the famous Graslei waterfront.

The courthouse served as the main seat of the Ghent judiciary for many years and is still in use today. It features a grand entrance hall with a large staircase leading up to the courtrooms, which are decorated with ornate details and artwork.

The courthouse is located in a central location, making it easy to visit as part of a tour of the city. Nearby attractions include the Gravensteen Castle, the St. Bavo’s Cathedral, and the numerous museums and galleries located in and around the city center.

Location: Koophandelsplein 23

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Spend the night in Ghent

Too much to see in so little time? Why not spend the night in Ghent?

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FAQ

Ghent is a charming city with many interesting attractions to explore. Here are some of the top attractions to visit in Ghent:

Gravensteen Castle: This 12th-century castle is one of Ghent’s most famous landmarks, featuring a moat, drawbridge, and turrets. Visitors can explore the castle’s towers and walls, as well as its museum on torture and punishment.
Saint Bavo Cathedral: This stunning cathedral is home to the famous Ghent Altarpiece, a masterpiece of Flemish art by Jan and Hubert Van Eyck. The cathedral also features beautiful stained glass windows and a crypt.
Graslei and Korenlei: These picturesque quayside streets are lined with historic buildings and offer stunning views of Ghent’s canals and architecture. It’s a great place to relax and soak in the atmosphere of the city.
Saint Nicholas Church: This beautiful Gothic church features a soaring nave, intricate stained glass windows, and a stunning altarpiece by artist Justus of Ghent.
Belfry and Cloth Hall: This medieval tower and hall offer panoramic views of Ghent and its surrounding countryside. Visitors can climb the tower’s 366 steps to the top for an unforgettable view.
Patershol: This charming neighborhood is one of the oldest parts of Ghent, featuring narrow cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and cozy restaurants and cafes.
Design Museum Gent: This museum is dedicated to design and decorative arts, showcasing a wide range of objects from Art Nouveau to contemporary design.

These are just a few of the many attractions that Ghent has to offer, and there are plenty of other interesting sights and experiences to discover in this beautiful city.

Ghent has a lot of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the best outdoor activities in Ghent:

Walking and cycling: Ghent has a network of walking and cycling paths that allow visitors to explore the city and its surroundings. There are several parks, including the Citadel Park and the Bourgoyen-Ossemeersen Nature Reserve, which offer scenic routes for walking or cycling.
Boat tour: A boat tour along the canals of Ghent is a great way to see the city from a different perspective. Several companies offer guided tours, or visitors can rent a small boat and explore the canals on their own.
Picnic in the park: Ghent has several parks that are perfect for a picnic, such as the Citadel Park or the Blaarmeersen Recreation Area. Visitors can bring their own food or purchase snacks from nearby cafes.
Kayaking: The Leie River, which runs through Ghent, is an excellent place for kayaking. Visitors can rent a kayak and explore the river and its surroundings.
Ghent Floralies: Held every five years, the Ghent Floralies is a popular flower and garden show that takes place in various locations throughout the city. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor displays and exhibitions during the event.

These are just a few examples of the many outdoor activities available in Ghent. Whether you prefer walking, cycling, boating, or simply enjoying a picnic in the park, Ghent has plenty of options for visitors to enjoy the great outdoors.

Yes, Ghent is definitely worth visiting! It’s a beautiful city with a rich history and a unique atmosphere. Here are some reasons why Ghent is worth visiting:

Architecture: Ghent has a beautiful mix of medieval and modern architecture, with stunning buildings such as the Gravensteen Castle, St. Bavo’s Cathedral, and the Belfry and Cloth Hall.
Art and culture: Ghent is home to many art galleries and museums, including the Museum of Fine Arts, the Design Museum, and the STAM Ghent City Museum. The city also hosts a range of cultural events throughout the year, such as the Ghent Festivities and the Ghent Jazz Festival.
Canals: Ghent’s picturesque canals are a highlight of the city, and a boat tour along the canals is a great way to see the sights.
Food and drink: Ghent has a vibrant food and drink scene, with a range of local specialties such as waterzooi (a creamy fish or chicken stew) and Gruut beer.
Atmosphere: Ghent has a lively and friendly atmosphere, with plenty of cafes, restaurants, and shops to explore. The city also has a large student population, which adds to its youthful and dynamic vibe.

Ghent is a beautiful and charming city that offers plenty of things to see and do, making it well worth a visit for anyone traveling to Belgium.

Ghent is a great destination for families traveling with children, with many fun and educational activities to enjoy. Here are some of the most popular things to do in Ghent with kids:

Visit the Gravensteen Castle: Kids will love exploring this medieval castle, which has a fascinating history and offers great views of the city from the top.
Take a boat tour: A boat tour along Ghent’s canals is a great way to see the city from a different perspective and is sure to be a hit with kids.
Visit the Ghent City Museum: The STAM Ghent City Museum offers a fun and interactive way for kids to learn about the history and culture of the city.
Explore the parks: Ghent has several beautiful parks, including the Citadel Park and the Blaarmeersen Recreation Area, which offer plenty of space for kids to run around and play.
Visit the World of Kina: This natural history museum is a great place for kids to learn about the world around them, with exhibits on plants, animals, and the environment.
Go to the Puppet Museum: The Huis van Alijn Puppet Museum offers a fascinating look at the history and art of puppetry, with plenty of hands-on activities for kids to enjoy.
Visit the Design Museum Gent: The Design Museum Gent has a fun interactive exhibition called “Design Derby” which showcases the differences and similarities between Belgian and Dutch design.

These are just a few examples of the many things to do in Ghent with kids. The city offers plenty of family-friendly activities and attractions that are sure to keep kids entertained and engaged throughout their visit.

Ghent is known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Here are some of the things that Ghent is famous for:

Gravensteen Castle: This medieval castle is located in the heart of the city and is one of the most famous landmarks in Ghent.
Ghent Altarpiece: This famous 15th-century painting by the Van Eyck brothers is located in St. Bavo’s Cathedral in Ghent.
The Ghent Festival: This is a 10-day festival that takes place in July and is one of the largest cultural events in Belgium.
Ghent University: This is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Belgium, with a long history of academic excellence.
The canals: Ghent is often called the “Venice of the North” because of its many canals and waterways.
Belgian Waffles: Ghent is known for its delicious Belgian waffles, which can be found in many cafes and bakeries throughout the city.
Street art: Ghent has a thriving street art scene, with many murals and graffiti artworks located throughout the city.

The amount of time you need to fully explore Ghent depends on your interests and how much you want to see and do. However, I would recommend spending at least 2-3 days in Ghent to get a good feel for the city and its attractions.

With 2-3 days, you can visit the major landmarks such as Gravensteen Castle, St. Bavo’s Cathedral, and the Ghent Altarpiece, as well as explore the historic city center, which is known for its beautiful architecture, canals, and vibrant cultural scene. You can also take a boat tour of the canals or rent a bike to explore the city at your own pace.

If you have more time, you can consider taking day trips from Ghent to nearby attractions such as Bruges, Antwerp, or Brussels, which are all within easy reach by train. Overall, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in Ghent, but if you have more time, there is plenty to see and do to keep you occupied.

Compared to some other European cities, Ghent is generally considered to be an affordable destination, especially when it comes to food, accommodation, and transportation. That being said, the cost of travel to Ghent can vary depending on the time of year you visit and your personal travel style.

Accommodation: Ghent offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets, from budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses to mid-range hotels and luxury properties. Prices can vary depending on the location, season, and level of comfort you’re looking for, but overall, accommodation in Ghent is reasonably priced.

Food and Drink: Food and drink prices in Ghent are generally affordable, with a variety of options available to suit different budgets. There are many cafes, restaurants, and bars throughout the city offering traditional Belgian cuisine as well as international options.

Transportation: Public transportation in Ghent is affordable and efficient, with a network of buses and trams serving the city and its surroundings. Bike rental is also a popular option, and there are many bike paths throughout the city. Taxis can be expensive, especially at night.

Overall, Ghent is a relatively affordable city to visit, but as with any destination, costs can vary depending on your travel style and preferences.

Yes, English is widely spoken in Ghent, especially in tourist areas, hotels, restaurants, and other places frequented by visitors. Most people in Ghent are fluent in Dutch, which is the official language of the city, but many also speak English, as well as French and German.

If you speak English, you should have no problem communicating with locals and getting around the city. Signs, menus, and other information are often available in English, and most people working in the tourism industry speak at least basic English.

That being said, it’s always a good idea to learn a few basic Dutch phrases before your trip, such as “hallo” (hello), “dank u” (thank you), and “tot ziens” (goodbye). Locals will appreciate the effort, and it can make your trip more enjoyable and immersive.

Yes, Ghent is a student city, and it has a reputation as one of the most student-friendly cities in Belgium. The city is home to Ghent University, which is one of the largest and most prestigious universities in the country, as well as several other higher education institutions.

As a result, there is a large student population in Ghent, and the city has a vibrant and youthful atmosphere. There are many student-oriented activities, events, and organizations throughout the city, and the nightlife scene is lively and diverse.

The presence of a large student population also means that Ghent is generally affordable, with many budget-friendly options for food, accommodation, and entertainment. Overall, Ghent’s status as a student city contributes to its unique character and makes it an attractive destination for young travelers and students alike.

Yes, Ghent is generally considered to be a safe city for travelers. Like any city, there is always a risk of petty crime such as pickpocketing, especially in busy tourist areas, but violent crime is rare.

The city has a strong police presence and is well-lit at night, which helps to deter criminal activity. In general, the streets are safe to walk, even at night, although it’s always a good idea to take basic safety precautions such as staying aware of your surroundings and not leaving valuables unattended.

Ghent is also known for its friendly and welcoming locals, who are generally happy to assist travelers with directions or recommendations. If you’re unsure about a particular area or activity, it’s always a good idea to ask locals or your hotel staff for advice.

Overall, Ghent is a safe and welcoming city, but it’s always a good idea to exercise common sense and take basic safety precautions when traveling.