Top 5 things to do in Ghent

The historic capital of Flanders, Ghent is not an extremely large city. You can enjoy activities and visit the main sights on foot. Ghent is famous for its canals, which will remind you of those in Amsterdam. But the cultural side is also very present, with some very fine museums to visit and famous festivals. You’re sure to fall in love with the beauty of Belgium’s second most populous city. Its architecture is a marvel to behold.

1- Discover the medieval centre by boat

Category: € / Cultural

Description: For around fifty minutes, you’ll discover the city of Ghent on the canals. An original and highly enjoyable way to visit a city. You’ll sail right into the heart of the medieval centre of the capital of Flanders. Accompanied by a guide, you’ll pass by a number of tourist attractions, including the Ghent Belfry, St Bavo’s Cathedral and the Castle of the Counts of Flanders. As your tour progresses, your guide will tell you all about the history of this district, its buildings and its architecture, which leaves no one indifferent.

2- Get around Ghent by bike

Category: €€ / Cultural / Sporting

Description: After visiting Ghent by boat, what could be better than discovering the other part of the city by bike? If after this visit you’re still in any doubt about the beauty of Ghent, we can’t do any more for you! The city of Ghent boasts a large number of historic buildings, abbeys, churches and castles, all of which you’ll have the chance to discover on this fun tour. You’ll pass by the castle of the Counts of Flanders, the Portus Ganda, a marina for people passing through, and the Little Beguinage. This was the home of a lay religious community. The houses are grouped together, forming a small neighbourhood. The little beguinage in Ghent is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A visit that combines sporting and cultural activities is good for every part of our lovely human body!

3- Tourist adventure and multiple tastings

Category: €€€ /Gastronomic /Cultural

Description: When you can visit a town and taste the local specialities, the experience is even better! And this activity is sure to please many of you! Meet up at 2pm at St Bavo’s Cathedral to join Eddy, who will be your guide. First, you’ll take a short stroll to get an overview of the city’s theatre and the Belfry of Ghent. The first culinary stop will be the Vanhoverbeke chocolate factory. The Belgians are chocolate specialists! You’ll have the chance to sample 3 chocolates made from exceptional cocoa beans. You will then be taken to a local brewery to sample all the Flemish know-how when it comes to beer, a sacred beverage in Belgium! Two different beers will be offered during this visit. Next, you’ll discover a tavern that produces gin. Yes, Ghent has its own gin too. Here, too, you’ll have the chance to taste this locally famous spirit. Finally, to round off this culinary tour, three other beers await you in three different taverns. You’ll be served snacks to go with the beers.

4- Take part in a chocolate tasting session

Category: €€ / Gastronomic

Description: During a stay in Ghent is Belgium, a chocolate-related activity is a must. Belgium is considered one of the best chocolate producers in the world, and rightly so. Accompanied by your guide, you’ll wander through the various alleys of Ghent city centre, stopping off at a number of confectionery shops where you’ll be asked to sample their specialities. In all, you’ll savour 8 sweets while listening to the manufacturing process and the story behind these chocolates.

5- Take part in Ghent’s local festival

Category: Unusual /Cultural

Description: The biggest festivities in Ghent take place over 10 days. Usually starting on 19 July, the city goes into party mode and gets ready to welcome around 3 million people over the 10 days! Over the course of the week, you’ll be able to enjoy a wide range of musical performances, exhibitions, parades, street theatre and more. All spread across the city. You’ll also be able to sample the best local specialities (and drink local beer, of course) at the stalls dotted around the streets. A great opportunity to discover the local culture!