My Trip To Ghent: The Spirit Of The Middle Ages › Ghent | Belgium

Ghent: Belgium's Most Beautiful City

Let's be clear from the start; if when you think of Belgium, all you think of is chocolate and the famous medieval fairytale Bruges, then you haven't met the real Belgium yet. Today, I'm taking you a little off the beaten path, but right to the heart of Europe: Ghent.

That's how it is here. "museum city" This isn't one of those pretentious places; this is a living, breathing place, with a distinct character in every corner. "hidden gem" Surrounded by the Netherlands, Germany, and France, Ghent boasts a strong presence that rivals the massive metropolises of the region. Moreover, transportation is so easy that you have no excuse. A 3-hour train journey from London, or just 2 hours from Paris or Amsterdam, will take you right into this fairytale. And if you're in Brussels, that short journey takes less than an hour, and you'll find yourself immersed in the experience. "I'm so glad I came." I'm sure you'll say that.

A little piece of friendly advice, of course: "I'll handle it." Don't leave booking tickets until the last minute; grab those low-priced tickets early to save money so you can enjoy some legendary Belgian beers in Graslei with the remaining funds.

If you're ready, let's pack our bags and start exploring this city of canals. Ghent awaits us!

From Istanbul to Ghent: Step-by-Step Directions

Now, let's get to the main point: How do we escape the chaos of Istanbul and reach these peaceful canals? Actually, it's much simpler than you think; there are just a few tricks involved.

First of all, Ghent doesn't have its own airport. So our destination is Brussels Airport (BRU). There are daily direct flights from Istanbul with airlines like Turkish Airlines and Pegasus. After a journey of approximately 3.5 hours, we land in Brussels.

The most crucial tip: The train!

After landing at the airport, we head straight down to the train station on the lower level without turning left or right. There are direct trains from Brussels Airport to Ghent (station name: Gent-Sint-Pieters). Without the hassle of transfers, you're in the heart of the city in about an hour!

The Ticket Issue: If you buy your ticket online in advance (from the NMBS - Belgian Railways website), you'll have peace of mind.
Weekend Bonus: If your trip falls on a weekend Weekend Ticket Catch the opportunity, tickets are almost half price!

Upon arriving at Gent-Sint-Pieters station, you'll be greeted by the famous yellow trams. Hop on tram number 1 and within 10-15 minutes you'll find yourself right in the heart of the historic center, Graslei.

Guide to Teleporting from Amsterdam to Antwerp

When you arrive at Amsterdam Centraal station, you have two main options. As someone who has tried both, let me summarize:

1. Fast and Cool Travel (Thalys / Eurostar)

If "My time is precious, I want a little luxury." If you're looking for a high-speed train, then these are perfect for you. You board in Amsterdam and in about 1 hour and 15 minutes you find yourself at Antwerp's famous historic train station. But remember, these trains are like plane tickets; if you don't buy them early, they can be quite expensive.

2. Economical and Convenient Route (Intercity Direct)

This is usually my preference. The journey on these trains takes approximately 1 hour 50 minutes to 2 hours. Reservations aren't required; you can buy your ticket instantly from the machines at the station. It's both more affordable and the duration is ideal for enjoying the scenery.

Budget-Friendly Bonus: Bus Option

The train and all that is nice, but if... “I have time but a limited budget, so I want to spend that money eating waffles in Ghent.” If you say that, buses come to your rescue.

FlixBus is a real lifesaver on this route. You can find buses from Amsterdam (usually departing from Sloterdijk station) to Antwerp or directly to Ghent very cheaply. The journey takes around 2.5 - 3 hours depending on traffic. Yes, it's a bit longer than the train, but you can treat yourself to a nice dinner with those extra Euros you save.

Why Antwerp Station (Antwerpen-Centraal)?

When you arrive here, don't run outside as soon as you get off the train! Antwerp Central Train Station, "The most beautiful railway stations in the world" It's always in the top three on the list. You'll understand what I mean when that enormous dome, the marble staircase, and the grandeur greet you. You literally feel like you've entered a palace.

That's where the beauty of staying in Antwerp begins. From the moment you exit the train station, everything is at your fingertips. You check into your hotel and the next morning... "Let's go to Ghent today." And then, coming back to this magnificent station is very practical.

After the intense energy of Amsterdam, entering Belgium via Antwerp is a wonderful way to start the trip. "intermediate stop" It's profitable. I think you should definitely consider this route!

Accommodation Tip: “Why I Stayed in Antwerp and Only Visited Ghent for a Day Trip”

Let's get to that much-anticipated question. "Where should we stay?" to the matter and to that famous budget-friendly plan that I personally implemented!

Look, Ghent is a wonderful place, but hotel prices are sometimes... "Come on!" It can make you say "I don't know what to do." If you ask what I did; I chose Antwerp (Antwerp) as my center, where there are much more affordable accommodation options. Antwerp is both a huge world to explore on its own, and a real springboard to get to Ghent.

Getting from Antwerp to Ghent is so simple, think of it like going from Beşiktaş to Kadıköy in Istanbul. By train, you're at Ghent-Sint-Pieters station in just 45-50 minutes. I hopped on the train early in the morning from Antwerp, explored Ghent thoroughly in a day trip, and returned to my accommodation in the evening.

This way, I was able to cut my accommodation costs in half and combine two different cities in the same route. If you also... "I'd rather not spend that much money on a place to sleep; I could eat the best meal in Ghent with that money." If you're one of those people, be sure to note this tactic!

A Jump from Antwerp to Ghent: Almost Like an Intra-City Route!

As I said, staying in Antwerp and taking a day trip to Ghent is the smartest move of this trip. So, how is this journey? Believe me, it's much more enjoyable and easier than taking the metrobus in Istanbul!

Stop 1: That Magnificent Antwerpen-Centraal

We say goodbye to the hotel in the morning and head to Antwerp-Centraal station, which looks like a miniature palace. Don't get carried away by the grandeur of the station and miss the train, be careful!

2. Train Options and Duration

From here, there's a train to Ghent (our station name is still Ghent-Sint-Pieters) almost every 20-30 minutes.

Intercity (IC) Trains: These are the fastest. They get you to Ghent in about 45-50 minutes without any major stops.
Scenic Bonus: It's free to admire the vast Belgian plains and charming villages along the way.

3. How do we solve the ticket issue?

Those orange and blue vending machines at the station "S" (Single) or "Return" You can purchase your (round trip) ticket in seconds.

Tip: If you're going on a weekend like me, you definitely should. Weekend Ticket Grab it. This ticket, valid from Friday evening at 7 PM until Sunday night, lets you travel at half price.

4. We arrived in Ghent, what's next?

When you arrive at Gent-Sint-Pieters station, go straight outside. The city's historic center is a short walk from the station (about 25-30 minutes). But time is precious! We immediately hop on the yellow tram number 1, which passes right in front of the station. After about 10-12 minutes... "Gravensteen" or "Korenmarkt" The moment you get off at the station, that fairytale medieval atmosphere will hit you like a slap in the face (but in a good way!).

That's it! Leaving the comforts of Antwerp and being captivated by the magic of Ghent is that effortless.

Ghent Travel Guide: What to Pack Before You Go

Now, let's get to the heart of the matter... You can't just go to Ghent without preparation; a few small preparations can save you. Here are my preparation tips, proven by experience:

1. Leave your umbrella at home, grab your raincoat!

Now, this is very important: the weather in Ghent is a bit... "at his/her discretion" It's a bit tricky. No matter what season you go, you might be greeted by that famous ocean breeze and surprise rain. Those fancy umbrellas you bring will turn inside out at the first gust of wind. So listen to me; wear a sturdy, windproof raincoat and your most comfortable walking shoes.

2. Language is No Problem at All.

The best thing about the Belgium and Netherlands route is this: the people are incredibly friendly and almost everyone speaks fluent English. "Hello" Just say the word, and the rest will fall into place easily.

3. "No need to spend days planning for Ghent!"

Let's be honest; Ghent isn't some huge, endless place where you need to spend days exploring. The city is so compact that you can arrive early in the morning and explore every corner by evening. In fact, I stayed in Antwerp and came here for a day trip, and it was more than enough!

Like that "I will visit museum after museum" Don't stress yourself out. The point of Ghent is to capture the spirit of those streets. Arrive by train in the morning, explore it thoroughly until evening, and after seeing its famous illuminations, move on.

4. The Secret Weapon on Your Smartphone: Local Guides

I used to recommend USE-IT maps, but they're a bit outdated now. Digital routes created by the Ghent Municipality and local youth are much more popular these days. Don't forget to download offline maps (like Google Maps or Maps.me) to your phone before you go.

Accommodation in Ghent: Where to Stay (or Not to Stay)

Belgium is already not a cheap country, and Ghent can sometimes disappoint in this regard. So what did I do? As I mentioned earlier, to save on my accommodation budget, I stayed in Antwerp and commuted to Ghent by train.

But if you say “No, I want to feel the night lights of Ghent to my very core, I’m staying here.” Let me tell you what awaits you then:

1. Get ready for those narrow stairs!

Those famous, narrow houses with steep staircases from Belgium and the Netherlands will also appear in Ghent. If you're booking an Airbnb, climbing those stairs with your suitcase is one thing. "sports activity" Know that.

2. The Breakfast Issue

Don't expect a lavish breakfast like our Turkish buffets at hotels. They usually offer a standard trio of coffee, croissants, cheese, and jam. But I have to give credit where credit is due; their cheese and coffee are so high quality that even the simplest hostel breakfast can sometimes feel like a feast.

3. My Secret Breakfast Strategy: Albert Heijn

If you don't want to shell out 15-20 Euros for breakfast out every day, head straight to the Albert Heijn supermarket. It's not just a market, it's more like a tourist attraction! You can buy fresh bread and those legendary Belgian cheeses and have your own breakfast by the canal. It's both more enjoyable and much cheaper.

A guide to the region for those who insist on staying in Ghent.

Korenmarkt & Historic Center (Heart of the City): Here "I can walk everywhere in two minutes." This is the place for those who say "everything is at your fingertips," but the prices might be a bit steep.
Patershol (Old Town & Romantic City): This is my favorite place! This is Ghent's oldest neighborhood. It has labyrinthine streets and incredibly charming boutique hotels. It's a real gem! "gourmet" neighborhood
Near Saint-Pieters Station (Practical and Economical): If you arrive in Ghent by train and don't want to endure the ordeal of taking the tram to the city center with your luggage, the area around the train station is a very sensible option.
Vrijdagmarkt Area (Young and Dynamic): This area is more frequented by locals and students.

Brief Summary: Patershol for pleasure and romance, the area around Gar for practicality. "I want everything to be right next to me" If you're saying that, then Korenmarkt is the place to go. But remember, Ghent is small; no matter where you stay, you'll inevitably find yourself on those famous canals!

What to Eat in Ghent. (And What Not to Eat!)

Look, folks, now's the time to be honest: In Belgium "Wow, what a gourmet kitchen!" A world like that doesn't really exist. Their thing is more about the highest quality fast food: french fries, waffles, and chocolate.

But there are many things that set Ghent apart from other Belgian cities. "cool" It has a unique feature: it's officially the vegetarian capital of Europe! So much so that every Thursday the city officially holds a vegetarian festival. "Vegetarian Day" It has been announced.

1. French Fries (Frietjes) – But Watch Out for the Sauce!

In Belgium, potatoes are a "spin off" No, it's not, it's the main course. You can get it in a paper cone from any street food stall. Be sure to ask for Samurai sauce (it's a bit spicy) or their famous mayonnaise on top.

2. A Must-Have: Waffles

There are two types of waffles here: Brussels style (lighter, rectangular) and Liège style (denser, with sugar crystals and rounded). I personally love the crispy Liège style.

3. That Famous "Nose" Candy: Cuberdon

You'll see purple, cone-shaped candies at street stalls. They're called Cuberdon, popularly known as... "The Cape of Ghent" They say it's hard on the outside, but oozes raspberry syrup from the inside.

4. The King of Mustard: Tierenteyn-Verlent

In Groentenmarkt square, there's a tiny, historic shop. Stepping inside might make your nose tingle, because here they freshly bottle some of the world's toughest and most delicious mustards.

5. And of course, beer!

This guide wouldn't be complete without mentioning Belgian beer, would it? You absolutely must try Gruut, the local beer of Ghent. Its unique feature is that, instead of hops, it uses a special blend of herbs, a tradition dating back to the Middle Ages.

The Complete Ghent Food and Drink Guide

Breakfast & Starting the Day

Luv L'oeuf
Oyó Gent

Coffee & Scenic Breaks

Mokabon
Take Five Espresso Bar, Canelle, Boon, Cocotine
De Krook (Library) – Krook Café

Lunch & Snacks

Frites Atelier
Soupr Gent

Chocolate & Traditional Desserts

Temmerman (Iconic) – Gentse Neuzen
Hilde Devolder Chocolatier
House of Waffles, Waffles 'n Beer
Bakker Klaas
Aux Merveilleux de Fred

Dinner (Classic & Gourmet)

Pakhuis
De Vos
Ottomat Pizza
Manhattan's Burger
Scopa Focacceria, Midtown Grill, Haddok, Cozzete

Experiential Bars & Late Night Closing

Dulle Griet
't Dreupelkot
Argenvino, Valeir Gent, Dealchemist, Shwundrinks
PerBacco Gent

What to Buy? (Iconic Items of Ghent)

Cuberdons (Gentse Neuzen): The city's iconic purple, funnel-shaped raspberry candies. Get the best ones from Temmerman.
Tierenteyn Mustard: A very sharp and fresh mustard, made with the same recipe since 1790.
Ghent Snowball (Larmuseau): A cloud-like dessert filled with vanilla cream, covered in chocolate, and sprinkled with powdered sugar.
Belgian Beer and Glasses: De Hopduvel is a great stop for its variety of beers and signature glasses.

Where to Buy? (Shopping Areas)

Veldstraat & Langemunt: Main shopping streets with major brands.
Sint-Pietersnieuwstraat: Trendy concept stores and record shops.
Koestraat & Brabantdam: Luxury boutiques and designer shops.
Patershol District: Boutique chocolate shops and handmade souvenirs.

Local Markets (The Authentic Ghent Experience)

Vrijdagmarkt (Friday & Saturday)
Kouter Flower Market (Sunday Morning)
Bij Sint-Jacobs Antique Market (Friday, Saturday, Sunday)
Ajuinlei Book Market (Market)

Must-see destinations in Ghent.

1. Gravensteen: The Giant Stone in the Middle of the City

This is no ordinary castle; it's the imposing fortress that truly defines the character of Ghent.

2. Three Towers Skyline (St. Bavo, Belfry, St. Nicholas)

St. Bavo Cathedral: The interior is a complete visual feast.
Belfort (Belfort Tower): Take the elevator to the top for panoramic city shots.

3. Graslei & Korenlei: The City Hall

The rule here is simple: You grab your drink from the market, settle down opposite those centuries-old guild houses along the canal. It's the best free activity in Ghent.

4. Graffiti Street (Werregarenstraatje)

If you're tired of history and want to immerse yourself in the energy of the street, this is the place for you. It's a constantly changing, vibrant street.

5. Canal Tour: 40 Minutes on the Water

For around €11-12, you can glide along the canal and discover the backs of buildings and hidden gardens.

Night 6 in Ghent: The Dance of Lights

Ghent takes on a completely different identity at night. Go to the St. Michiel Bridge (Sint-Michielsbrug) and just watch. The city literally glows with its reflections on the water.

Hidden Corners of Ghent: "You'll Regret Missing These Places"

1. Groentenmarkt (Sweet and Mustard Market)

This is my place for a coffee and dessert break. "safe zone" Um. But the real highlight of this place is those famous Cuberdon candies (Gent's Nose).

2. Waterwijk and Brouwbar (The Real Spirit of Ghent)

If "Let there be boutique shops, and let the canals flow more calmly." If you're saying that, then your route should definitely be the Waterwijk area. And when you get tired, head to Brouwbar.

3. Korenmarkt and Festival Atmosphere

This used to be a wheat market, but now it's the city's liveliest meeting point.

4. Manhattan's Burgers (Burgers with a View)

Eating a burger on the banks of the Leie River with a view of the Sint-Michiel Bridge is a real pleasure.

5. Home Linen: Hard to Remove Even From Its Display Case!

Needlepoint tablecloths, handmade jewelry, vintage rings... If you're looking for something stylish, you should definitely check this place out.

6. Architectural Details: MIRY and the City Hall

Every building in Ghent is beautiful, but I recommend standing in front of the MIRY Concert Hall and that Gothic Town Hall (Stadhuis) and taking a look around.

7. Graffiti Street (Werregarenstraat)

I'll say it again, this is Ghent. "Vaccine" face. 5-minute walk from the center.

A Brief Comparison: Regarding the canal tour; yes, there are many options, but if you're short on time and also planning a trip to Bruges, I recommend taking your canal tour in Bruges. Ghent is best enjoyed on foot, getting lost in its streets.

That's all for Ghent from me! Get lost in the side streets, settle down at any of the little tables you find empty, and enjoy the moment. Now you know Ghent like the back of your hand.

Ghent Travel Guide And Tips

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