Ghent is a city that has everything: historical charm, lively streets and a relaxed atmosphere. From the Netherlands, it is an ideal destination for a short city trip. In this guide, we share our tips for a successful weekend, from accommodations and sights to the best places to eat.​

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How to get to Ghent easily?

• ​By car

From Rotterdam you can drive to Ghent in about two hours. We parked in the Savaanstraat Parking, a central parking garage within walking distance of our hotel and the city center. Keep in mind that the center is partially car-free.

• By train

International train connections are excellent. From the Netherlands, travel by Intercity Brussels (IC Brussels) to Gent-Sint-Pieters station. From there you can get to the center by streetcar or a short walk.

Where to stay in Ghent? ​

We stayed at One Two Four Hotel, a modern and comfortable hotel with a nice location. It is an ideal base for exploring the city. Ghent also has many other options, from cozy boutique hotels to affordable hostels, depending on your budget and needs.

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What to do on a weekend in Ghent?​

Saturday: culture, shopping and a boat trip

We started our city trip with brunch at Luv L'oeuf, a fine place to have a sumptuous and relaxed breakfast. Well-charged, we then explored the historic side of the city.

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Our first stop was Ghent’s churches and cathedrals, including St. Bavo’s Cathedral, home to the famous painting The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb. The impressive architecture and rich history make this a must-visit.

 

​Next, we strolled through Graffiti Alley, a narrow street filled with colorful street art. It’s like an ever-changing open-air gallery and a must-see for street art lovers.

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We then visited Gravensteen, a medieval castle in the heart of the city. Inside, you can explore the old knights’ halls and towers, and from the castle walls, you get a stunning view of Ghent.

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Between sightseeing, we popped into several shops. Ghent offers a great selection of boutiques and concept stores, where you’ll find unique fashion, design, and souvenirs.

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After all that walking, it was time to see Ghent from the water. For €10 per person, we took a boat tour along the Leie, starting at Korenlei— a relaxing way to experience the city from a different perspective.

We wrapped up the afternoon with some vintage shopping. At T2 Gent and The Vintage Factory, we found great second-hand clothing, and at Gen X, we picked up a cool vinyl record. You can also enjoy a good cup of coffee here while listening to records.

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After a short break at the hotel, we had dinner at Eat Love Pizza, where surprising pizza combinations and fresh ingredients set the standard.

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Sunday: Markets, Bookstores & a Relaxed Finish

Our second day started at Pain Perdu, a popular brunch spot with freshly baked bread and great coffee. Then, we wandered through the Sunday markets, discovering local products and artisanal treats.

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We also visited a few bookstores—Ghent has some beautiful ones. In between, we stopped at Le Pain Quotidien on Korenmarkt for a cup of tea and a short break. Of course, we also took some time to browse the shopping streets and pick up a few unique finds.

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Before leaving Ghent, we took one last walk through the city and ended up in Mageleinstraat, where we captured a fun memory in a vintage photo booth.

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Food Guide: The Best Places to Eat in Ghent

Brunch

• Jacqueline Gent – Cozy breakfast spot with delicious dishes.

• Luv L’oeuf – Perfect for a long and satisfying brunch.

• Pain Perdu – Freshly baked bread and great coffee.

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Sweets & Snacks

• Waffles ‘n Beer – Workshop where you can make waffles and taste beer.

• Sophie’s Sweets & Chocolates – The best pralines and chocolates.

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Dinner

• Eat Love Pizza – Creative and flavorful pizzas.

• Meme Gusta – Traditional Belgian dishes in a cozy setting.

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Coffee & Tea

• Gen X – Enjoy coffee while listening to vinyl records.

• Le Pain Quotidien (Korenmarkt) – A great spot for a tea break.

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Ghent is the perfect city for a short getaway. The mix of culture, atmosphere, shopping, and great food makes it an ideal weekend destination!