Ghent
Belgium
Attractions & Events in Ghent
Discover the top attractions, events, and festivals in Ghent, Belgium
Top Attractions
Blaarmeersen Recreation Park
A large park featuring lakes, sports facilities, and picnic areas.
Tips: Great for a family outing; check the weather before visiting to ensure optimal conditions.
Bourgoyen-Ossemeersen Nature Reserve
A vast wetland area offering walking and cycling trails amidst diverse wildlife.
Tips: Bring binoculars for birdwatching; wear comfortable shoes for the trails.
De Krook Library
A modern architectural marvel housing a vast collection of books and media.
Tips: Ideal for digital nomads seeking a quiet workspace; check for any scheduled events or exhibitions.
Gentse Feesten
An annual ten-day festival featuring music, theater, and street performances.
Tips: Book accommodations well in advance; be prepared for large crowds during peak days.
Gravensteen Castle
A medieval fortress offering insights into Ghent's history and panoramic city views.
Tips: Climb to the top for the best vistas; consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid crowds.
Korenmarkt Square
A bustling hub surrounded by historic buildings, cafes, and shops.
Tips: Perfect for people-watching; visit in the evening to experience the vibrant nightlife.
St. Bavo's Cathedral
A stunning example of Gothic architecture, home to the renowned Ghent Altarpiece.
Tips: Allocate at least an hour to fully appreciate the cathedral's art and architecture.
Tierenteyn-Verlent Mustard Shop
A historic shop known for its unique, spicy mustard.
Tips: Purchase a jar as a souvenir; be prepared for a strong flavor.
Events & Festivals
Gentse Floraliën
A botanical exhibition held every five years at Flanders Expo, showcasing a vast array of plants and horticultural displays.
When: April
Tips: Ideal for gardening enthusiasts; plan your visit to explore extensive plant collections.
Ghent International Festival
A biennial event celebrating Ghent's European Youth Capital status, featuring opera, dance, and youth-led activities.
When: April
Tips: Check the official website for event schedules and ticket information.
Gentse Feesten
An annual ten-day music and theatre festival held every July, attracting 1–1.5 million visitors.
When: July
Tips: Book accommodations early due to high demand during the festival.
World Choir Games
A global choral competition and festival co-hosted by Ghent and Antwerp, featuring performances from choirs worldwide.
When: July
Tips: Attend performances at different venues to enjoy diverse choral music.
OdeGand City Festivities
Part of the Festival of Flanders, offering over 50 concerts in diverse locations throughout the medieval inner city.
When: September
Tips: Explore various venues to experience a range of musical genres.