Why you should visit Ghent

Some cities combine so much charm, history and personality, it’s impossible not to love them. Ghent happens to be one of these special places. The city is referred to as Europe’s best-kept secret, probably because its size and location place it in the shadow of more popular European destinations – Paris, London, Rome, Venice, Berlin, Madrid or even Brussels, the capital of Belgium.

Ghent has everything one’s soul craves – medieval buildings, contemporary entertainment, (after all, it’s a student city), trendy restaurants and bars, museums, cultural events and friendly people who know how to enjoy life.

Attractions to see

The Castle of the Counts is full of stories and amazing views; the audio guide by a Flemish comedian adds some extra fun to the tour. The Museum of Fine Arts (MSK in Dutch) is the oldest museum in Belgium and boasts a collection of approximately 15,000 works of art from the 14th to the 20th century. The Municipal Museum of Contemporary Art (SMAK in Dutch) is set right across from MSK. Its permanent collection is just as impressive, temporary artists are regularly featured as well. These two museums are the most popular, but all museums and art galleries in Ghent are worth a visit.

Ghent has a plethora of lovely sights. The Saint Michael's Bridge is one of the key points of interest, so make sure you stop there at least once or twice and take in the beauty of your surroundings (plus a few pictures). The Graslei and Korenlei quays, the Botanical Garden of Ghent University and Saint Bavo's Abbey, as well as many other hotspots are located within walking distance.

Top foods to try

However you choose to spend your time in Ghent, don’t leave without trying the regional food. There are over 700 restaurants in the city, offering plenty of options for vegetarians and vegans. Although the international restaurants are intriguing as well, hear me out – kroakemandels (salted peas), Tierenteyn (locally produced mustard, rumored to be the best in Belgium), Gruut (local herb beer), waterzooi (fish soup, a favorite dish of Charles V), aren’t you tempted? The handmade chocolate pralines also deserve a special mention – Belgium is famous for its chocolate treats, and Ghent’s master chocolatiers are among the best in the country. There are even chocolate tasting tours that enable visitors to explore the sweet side of Ghent.

Places to stay

By staying in the heart of the city, you’ll have more time to experience its attractions and sights – they’ll be all around you. No matter if you prefer to use a travel agency to make your accommodation arrangements or enjoy planning your trip by yourself, Ghent offers hotel options for any taste and budget. Some of the most atmospheric hotels are set in historic buildings, which contributes to an unforgettable stay.

Fascinating facts about Ghent

• During the Middle Ages, Ghent became a city-state and was among the largest cities in Northern Europe. The wool industry was instrumental in Ghent’s prosperity.
• On the Christmas Eve of 1814, Great Britain and the USA officially ended the War of 1812 by signing a peace treaty in Ghent (unsurprisingly known as the Treaty of Ghent).
• The Holy Roman Emperor Charles V and the famous Renaissance painter Jan van Eyck (whose works include the ‘Arnolfini Portrait’, ‘The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb’ and ‘Madonna of Chancellor Rolin’) were born in Ghent.
• Ghent is home to the country’s first bicycle boulevard (or a neighborhood greenway). People there really love cycling and lead an eco-friendly lifestyle, so Ghent has approximately 250 miles of bike paths.
• The city’s original motto is ‘Nie neute, nie pleuje!’, which means' Don't complain, don’t give up!’. You can find it on pavements, murals and signs, and can take it home in the form of souvenirs – coffee mugs,tote bags and t-shirts. It’s inspirational and wholesome, just like Ghent itself.