3 Days Itinerary in Gent, Belgium - Travel Guide
A Whirlwind Adventure: 3 Days in Ghent, Belgium
| Days | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Day 1 - A Glimpse into Ghent's Rich History |
| 2 | Day 2 - Ghent's Artistic and Cultural Heartbeat |
| 3 | Day 3 - Unveiling Ghent's Modern Side |
Introduction
A three-day journey through Ghent, a timeless gem nestled in the heart of Belgium. With an elegant fusion of medieval, renaissance, and contemporary flair, Ghent offers sights, sounds, and appetizing tastes just waiting to be discovered.
Day 1 - A Glimpse into Ghent's Rich History
Kickstart your adventure in Ghent with a visit to the Ghent Altarpiece at the iconic Saint Bavo's Cathedral. This remarkable masterwork of the Van Eyck brothers never fails to awe. Next stop is the Gravensteen, fondly referred to as the 'Castle of the Counts', where you can immerse yourself in medieval charm. Grab lunch at one of the authentic Belgian cafes nearby before heading to the Ghent Belfry, the tallest of its kind in Belgium, offering you a panoramic view of the city. Conclude the day with a scenic boat tour down the Lys River. As night falls, the illuminated cityscape will truly take your breath away.
Day 2 - Ghent's Artistic and Cultural Heartbeat
First on today's itinerary is the Design Museum, holding a vast collection of both contemporary and historical design pieces. Follow that up with a stroll through Ghent's most vibrant quarter – the Patershol. This labyrinth of cobbled streets will lead you to an array of eateries, offering a chance to try Belgium's best 'waterzooi'. Later, step into the hallowed halls of St. Nicholas' Church, a testament to Ghent's architectural prowess. As dusk approaches, make your way to 't Dreupelkot, a gin bar known for its home-distilled spirits, for a nightcap.
Day 3 - Unveiling Ghent's Modern Side
Begin your last day with a leisurely bike ride to Blauwe Kiosk, a contemporary district known for its scenic gardens and diverse cultural scene. Then head to the S.M.A.K., the Museum of Contemporary Art, showcasing a stunning array of modern and contemporary art pieces. That afternoon, visit the edgy Werregarenstraat (also known as Grafittistraatje) to marvel at every changing graffiti filled wall. Wrap up your trip with a visit to the Korenmarkt, where you can buy some Belgian chocolates and souvenirs to take home.
Benjamin Clark
FAQs about this
3 day itinerary in
Gent
Ghent can be visited and enjoyed year-round. However, the summer months of June to August, when the weather is pleasant, and festivals like the Ghent Festivities are in full swing, offer a particularly vibrant experience.
Yes, English is widely spoken in Ghent, particularly in shops, restaurants, and popular tourist spots. So, although learning a few basic phrases in Dutch could be helpful, you should have no problem navigating the city and communicating in English.
Absolutely! Ghent's city center is compact and well-connected. Many of the main attractions are within walking distance of each other, making it the perfect city to explore on foot or by cycling.