Ghent fall 2018
A fairy tale, port city in northwest Belgium on the Leie river, Ghent was once a prominent place with medieval architecture and now is a university town with plenty of personality. Ghent has many nicknames – “The historic heart of Flanders”, “a city of all times”, “Europe’s best kept secret”, and the “Medieval Manhattan”.
Epic Things to do in Ghent:
1. St. Bavo’s Cathedral
2. Explore Old Town and walk Graslei & Korenlei streets along the canal (day and night)
3. Check out the view from St. Michael’s bridge
4. Check out the view from the top of the Belfry Tower
St Bavo’s Cathedral – the oldest parish church, it stands 89 meters tall and beautiful both inside and out with many important works of art inside. It is really a magnificent cathedral. There are also two other churches to peek into – St. Nicholas Church and St. Michael’s Church
Old Town – It is fun place to just wander around and take in the architecture and the views. There are many shops and restaurants in the area and it’s a great opportunity to eat outside, grab a coffee or a beer and just enjoy your surroundings and relax.
St. Michael’s bridge has a great view of all three towers in Ghent – so grab a quick photo here and then enjoy the view of the canal, boats and rafts below.
Belfry Tower – The Belfry of Ghent is 91 meters tall and offers an opportunity to climb to the top for great views of the city. Additionally, there is much history to learn on each floor on your way to the top.
Gravensteen Castle – is a medieval castle right in the city and available to tour as well, although I did not go into the castle it is certainly beautiful outside.
Food and Drink – Belgium is known for its beer – there are hundreds of different ones to try. Belgium is also known for delicious fries and mussels. Additionally, the city of Ghent is famous for its watrzooi stew and for cunerdons. Cuberdons, or neuzckes (little noses) are triangle shaped candies that are hard on the outside and soft in the middle and available to purchase from street vendors. We had a wonderful dinner at Allegro Moderato.
There is even a castle for sale in Ghent – just in case you decide to stay there a little longer!
Overall: Ghent is a quaint and romantic small town and the perfect place for a quiet getaway and exploring some historic churches and a castle! I love it here - it was epic!
