Ultimate 3-Day Ghent Itinerary: Best Things to Do & See
Ghent is a captivating blend of medieval architecture, vibrant canals, and cutting-edge creativity, offering an unforgettable Belgian adventure in every cobbled street.

Day 1: Medieval Marvels & Riverside Charm
Morning
Begin your Ghent journey at the iconic Gravensteen. Explore this imposing 12th-century castle, complete with ramparts, dungeons, and panoramic city views that set the tone for your medieval adventure.
Grab a coffee and a freshly baked pastry at Simon Says, a cozy café beloved by locals in the historic Patershol district.
Afternoon
Stroll along the enchanting Graslei and Korenlei, Ghent’s picturesque medieval quays, and admire the gabled facades lining the Lys River.
For lunch, savor Belgian classics with a modern twist at De Graslei, a canal-side restaurant boasting beautiful views.
Evening
Experience Ghent’s vibrant student nightlife with craft beers at Dulle Griet, famous for its 500+ beer selection and quirky shoe-for-a-glass tradition.
Take a magical evening walk across St Michael's Bridge, which offers the city’s most stunning illuminated views.
Day 2: Art, History & Hidden Corners
Morning
Marvel at the world-famous St Bavo's Cathedral, home to the Van Eyck brothers’ Adoration of the Mystic Lamb and breathtaking Gothic architecture.
Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Le Pain Quotidien, a Belgian institution serving organic breads and pastries in a charming setting near the cathedral.
Afternoon
Immerse yourself in Flemish masterpieces at the Museum of Fine Arts (MSK), featuring works by Bosch, Rubens, and Magritte.
Relax with lunch at Café Labath, a specialty coffee spot known for its hip ambiance and superb sandwiches.
Evening
Discover the vibrant Werregarenstraat, an ever-changing alleyway canvas of street art and graffiti, revealing Ghent’s creative spirit after dark.
End your day with Belgian tapas and cocktails at Baravins, a chic bar tucked away near the old city center.
Day 3: Local Flavors, Canals & Contemporary Culture
Morning
Start with a local treat at HIMSCHOOT Bakery, Ghent’s oldest bakery, and try their famed mastel or artisan bread.
Wander through the bustling stalls of Vrijdagmarkt, one of Ghent’s oldest squares, alive with local vendors and lively atmosphere.
Afternoon
Hop aboard a Ghent Canal Boat Tour to discover hidden corners and the city’s vibrant waterfront from a new perspective.
For lunch, sample a creative, plant-based menu at Le Botaniste, a unique apothecary-themed eatery that’s a hit with locals and travelers alike.
Evening
Explore the contemporary art and culture scene at STAM (Ghent City Museum), where interactive exhibits trace the city’s evolution from medieval hub to modern metropolis.
Finish your Ghent adventure with a dinner at Allegro Moderato, a romantic riverside restaurant offering refined Belgian cuisine in an elegant Art Nouveau setting.
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