Why You Should Visit Ghent, Belgium, Before the Crowds Find It

The City That Time Forgot (Sort Of)

I’ll be honest—I only went to Ghent because my flight to Brussels was overbooked, and I needed a place to stay for two nights. I’d heard the name but knew almost nothing about it. Two weeks later, I extended my trip and canceled my return flight. That’s how much this city surprised me.

Ghent is in the Flemish region of Belgium, about 30 minutes by train from Brussels. It’s a medieval city with canals, cobblestone streets, and some of the most stunning architecture I’ve ever seen. But unlike Bruges, which is overrun with tourists taking selfies, or Amsterdam, which can feel like a theme park, Ghent feels… real. People live here. They commute, shop, and hang out in cafes. It’s a living city, not a museum.

What to See

The highlight is the Gravensteen Castle, a 12th-century fortress right in the city center. You can walk the ramparts, see the torture chamber, and get panoramic views of the city. It costs about €12 and is worth every euro.

The other must-see is the Ghent Altarpiece, a 15th-century painting by the Van Eyck brothers housed in St. Bavo’s Cathedral. This painting is famous for its detail and the use of oil paint. The “Adoration of the Mystic Lamb” panel is one of the most important artworks in European history. I’m not an art person, but even I was blown away.

And then there’s the food. Ghent is the vegan capital of Europe, believe it or not. The city has more vegan restaurants per capita than anywhere else. I ate at Le Bieret, a pub that serves traditional Flemish stew made with beer and served with fries. They had a vegan version that was just as good as the meat one. The fries here are legendary—double-fried, crispy, and served with mayonnaise.

When to Go

I went in late June, and the weather was perfect—warm but not hot, with long daylight hours. The city was busy but not packed. Avoid July and August if you can; that’s when the cruise ships arrive.

Ghent is cheap, too. My hotel was €80 a night for a room with a canal view. Meals averaged €15 for a filling lunch. It’s significantly cheaper than Amsterdam or Paris.

Final Thoughts

Ghent is a hidden gem, but it won’t stay hidden for long. More travelers are discovering it every year. Go now, before the crowds arrive. You’ll thank me later.