Ghent: Belgium’s Best-Kept Secret
Ghent, the capital of East Flanders in Belgium, is one of Europe’s most rewarding and underrated city-break destinations. Often overshadowed by Brussels and Bruges, Ghent combines a spectacular medieval cityscape with a vibrant university town atmosphere, an outstanding food and beer culture, and a proudly progressive character. Home to one of the great masterpieces of Western art and a perfectly preserved medieval city centre, Ghent more than rewards the effort of seeking it out.
Top Attractions in Ghent
The Ghent Altarpiece
The Ghent Altarpiece — also known as the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb — is a monumental polyptych painting completed by Jan van Eyck in 1432 and widely considered one of the most important paintings in Western art. Housed in St. Bavo’s Cathedral, after extensive restoration the panels are now displayed in their full glory.
Gravensteen Castle and Graslei
Gravensteen — the Castle of the Counts — is one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Belgium, built in 1180 with excellent views from the battlements. The Graslei quay is lined with a remarkable row of guild houses from the 12th to the 17th centuries, forming one of the most beautiful streetscapes in Belgium.
Food and Beer in Ghent
Ghent is famous for being the most vegetarian-friendly city in Belgium. The city’s signature dish is waterzooi — a creamy stew served with root vegetables. Ghent’s craft beer scene is outstanding, and the city’s many independent bars stock an extraordinary range of Belgian ales from crisp witbiers to complex Trappist brews.
Group Travel to Ghent
Ghent is ideal for group travel — its central location, excellent rail connections to Brussels and Bruges, and wealth of cultural attractions make it easy to combine in a Belgian tour itinerary. For group travel packages to Belgium and the Benelux region, Gothia Sports Travel offers tailored group programmes for sports clubs, school trips, and cultural touring parties.
Final Thoughts
Ghent is the kind of city that makes you feel slightly smug for having discovered it. Less crowded than Bruges, more authentic than central Brussels, and home to one of the greatest paintings in Western art, it delivers an exceptional travel experience. Put Ghent at the top of your Belgian itinerary — you won’t regret it.
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