Nestled in the heart of Flanders, Belgium, standing the enchanting city of Ghent, a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by travellers seeking an authentic European experience. With its medieval architecture, picturesque canals, and vibrant cultural scene, Ghent offers a captivating blend of old-world charm and contemporary allure. In this blog post, we invite you to join us on a journey through the timeless beauty of Ghent, as we uncover the treasures that make it a must-see destination in Europe.
Ghent is a port city in northwest Belgium, at the confluence of the Leie and Scheldt rivers. During the Middle Ages it was a prominent city-state. Today it’s a university town and cultural hub. Its pedestrianized center is known for medieval architecture such as 12th-century Gravensteen castle and the Graslei, a row of guildhalls beside the Leie river harbor.
Three towers mark the skyline of Ghent’s old town – the 14th-century Belfry, St. Nicholas’ Church and Romanesque-Gothic St. Bavo’s Cathedral.
1.St.Nicholas Church
St. Nicholas' Church is one of the oldest landmarks in Ghent, Belgium. Begun in the early 13th century as a replacement for an earlier Romanesque church, construction continued through the rest of the century in the local Scheldt Gothic style.
2.Het Belfort van Gent
The Het Belfort van Gent is 91metre tall.Its height makes it tallest belfort in Belgium.
Construction of the tower began in 1313 after a design by master mason Jan van Haelst. His plans are still preserved in the Ghent City Museum. After continuing intermittently through wars, plagues and political turmoil, the work reached completion in 1380. It was near the end of this period that the gilded dragon, brought from Brugge.
3.Saint Bavo's Cathedral
The Saint Bavo Cathedral an 89-meter-tall Gothic cathedral in Ghent, Belgium. It is the seat of the diocese of Ghent, is named for Saint Bavo of Ghent, and contains the well-known Ghent Altarpiece.
4.Graslei
Graslei is a quay in the historic city center of Ghent, Belgium, located on the right bank of the Leie river. The quay opposite of the Graslei is called Korenlei. Both quays were part of the medieval port and are now a cultural and touristic hotspot of the city, with a high concentration of café patios
5.Fotmer post office
Historical building and luxury hotel
‘1898 The Post’ is a luxurious boutique hotel in the heart of Ghent. In the former Post Office building, between the Korenmarkt and the idyllic Graslei, you can stay in one of the 38 stylish rooms and suites.
The owners gave the rooms inspiring names, such as The Stamp, The Envelope and The Postcard, all reminiscent of the building’s past. If you are looking to pamper yourself with a truly unique experience, book the tower suite, which boasts a spectacular panoramic view of the city.
6.Gravensteen
The Gravensteen is a medieval castle at Ghent.The current castle dates to 1180 and was the residence of the Counts of Flanders until 1353. It was subsequently re-purposed as a court, prison, mint, and even as a cotton factory. It was restored over 1893–1903 and is now a museum and a major landmark in the city.
View from the castle
Castle square
The main Ghent attraction are walking distance from one to another,so walking is the best way to soak up the cities atmosphere and explore all hidden beauties.
Аnd last but not least,the famous Belgian waffles with chocolate
Happy traveling