Ghent often feels like Belgium’s hidden gem — charming medieval canals, Gothic towers, and a vibrant university energy that keeps it young and creative. We spent 3 days in Ghent and used it as a base to explore Brussels and Bruges. It was the perfect blend of culture, history, and cozy evenings along the water. Bonus, we were there during Ghent Festivities, which is among the biggest festivals in Europe.
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Day 1: Exploring Ghent’s Medieval Heart
We checked into Hotel Harmony, a boutique hotel right on the canals. Our canal-view room set the tone for the trip — waking up to reflections of medieval buildings and watching boats glide by was magical.
After a quick breakfast of Belgium waffles, coffee and fruits, we set out to explore:
- Gravensteen Castle: This 12th-century fortress has thick stone walls, sweeping city views, and a surprisingly quirky exhibit on medieval torture devices.
- St. Bavo’s Cathedral: We stood in awe before the Ghent Altarpiece (Adoration of the Mystic Lamb) — one of the most celebrated works in European art.
- Belfry of Ghent: Climbing the bell tower gave us panoramic views of the city’s spires and rooftops.
For lunch, we grabbed a table at a café on the Graslei, trying waterzooi, a creamy chicken (and sometimes fish) stew that originated in Ghent.
In the evening, we took a canal cruise — the soft golden light on the gabled facades was unforgettable. Dinner was at a cute restaurant our Hotel conceirge suggested, where we sampled wonderful wine pairings with Belgian classics. The walk back to the hotel along the lantern lit bridges was impossibly romantic!
Day 2: A Day Trip to Brussels
The next morning, we caught an early train (just 30 minutes!) to Brussels. The capital felt like a bigger, busier cousin to Ghent.
Brussels was so crowded, and traffic was crazy. We spent a quick afternoon wandering around and tucking into some shops in the old town. After a stop to see Manneken Pis—to see what the fuss is all about, we wandered into the Tintin boutique store located in the centre of Brussels, a stone’s throw from the Grand Place, and bought this tiny Tintin Travel book.
Some Brussels Highlights include:
- Grand Place: No photo truly prepares you for the stunning square, with its ornate guildhalls and Town Hall.
- Magritte Museum: We dove into surrealist art at the museum dedicated to René Magritte, one of Belgium’s most famous artists.
- Atomium: This retro-futuristic landmark offered panoramic views of Brussels from its silver spheres.
Food was a highlight of the day:
- Morning waffles at Maison Dandoy — crisp, fluffy perfection.
- Lunch at a brasserie near the Grand Place. Mussels with fries is a must try.
- A late-afternoon stop at Delirium Café, which boasts more than 2,000 beers on the menu.
By evening, we were back in Ghent, enjoying a quiet dinner near Ghent’s oldest quarter, filled with narrow cobbled streets and intimate restaurants.
Day 3: Bruges, the Fairytale City
Our final day took us by train to Bruges (also 30 minutes away). If Ghent feels lived-in and vibrant, Bruges feels like stepping into a medieval painting.
- Markt Square: Lined with colorful gabled houses, dominated by the Belfry. We climbed it for yet another spectacular view.
- Groeningemuseum: Home to a collection of Flemish masterpieces, from Van Eyck to Magritte.
- Canal Cruise: Drifting through Bruges’ waterways is the best way to admire its architecture.
One of the most profound moments in Bruges came not from chocolate or canals, but from silence—inside the Basilica of the Holy Blood. Tucked in a corner of Burg Square, this small, dimly lit church holds what is believed to be a relic of the Blood of Christ, brought back from the Crusades. We arrived just in time for the midday viewing, where the vial was reverently displayed: no photography, no loud whispers—just quiet reverence from travelers and locals alike. Whether you visit in faith or curiosity, it’s hard not to feel the weight of centuries of devotion in that room.
Whether you spend one day or a weekend in Bruges, you have to try some waffles and chocolates here.
Bruges food you must try:
- Sampling handmade chocolates at small artisan shops.
- Sharing a warm Belgian waffle dusted with powdered sugar. Chez Albert was the best!
- If you are here for dinner, try Flemish beef stew (stoverij), slow-cooked in local beer.
A day trip to Bruges from Ghent was a perfect way to see this beautiful town.
We returned to Ghent for one last late-night walk along the canal by our hotel. But the town was taken over by Gentse Feesten, a yearly Ghent Festival where thousands come to celebrate. The town was buzzing and litup with lights everywhere, it felt like the half of Europe was there!
Experiencing the Gentse Feesten (Ghent Festival)
We were lucky to be in town during the Gentse Feesten, one of Europe’s biggest cultural festivals held every July. For ten days, the entire city transforms into one giant stage — with live music, street performers, theater, food stalls, and late-night parties spilling into every square.
We joined locals in the historic center, wandering from stage to stage, tasting Belgian street food, and listening to everything from jazz to electronic beats under the stars. The atmosphere was infectious — Ghent truly came alive, and it felt like the city was inviting everyone (locals and travelers alike) to celebrate together.
If you can, time your visit with the festival. It gives you a completely different perspective of Ghent’s cultural energy. The festival usually happens in July. See the schedule here.
Where to Stay in Ghent
- Hotel Harmony (Our Stay) – A boutique gem in the historic center with spacious rooms and unforgettable canal views. Staying here made our trip extra special. If you are looking for a hotel in Ghent with a canal view and boutique stay, you can’t go wrong with Hotel Harmony.
- Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Reylof – Elegant and luxurious, with a blend of historic architecture and modern comforts.
- 1898 The Post – A stylish boutique hotel in Ghent’s former post office. Perfect for design lovers.
- Ibis Gent Centrum St. Baafs Kathedraal – Affordable, central, and right by the cathedral.
Canal Cruise & Favorite moments from our days in Ghent
FAQ: 3 Days in Ghent
Is 3 days enough for Ghent?
Yes — 3 days is ideal. You’ll see Ghent’s highlights and also enjoy day trips to Brussels and Bruges without feeling rushed. I, of course, suggest staying more than one day in Ghent.
Is Ghent better than Bruges or Brussels?
They each have their strengths! Ghent feels authentic and vibrant, Bruges is postcard-perfect, and Brussels is cosmopolitan with incredible museums. Staying in Ghent gives you the best access to all three.
What foods should I try?
Try waterzooi, Gentse stoverij (beef stew in beer), waffles, fries with mayo, and Belgian beer. For dessert lovers: chocolate shops are everywhere, and each one is worth sampling.
Final Thoughts
Ghent became one of our favorite stops in Belgium during our 6 weeks in Europe — not just because of its art and medieval charm, but also because it felt like a city people truly live in. From our canal-view stay at Hotel Harmony to the buzz of the Gentse Feesten, and easy day trips to Bruges and Brussels, this itinerary made for the perfect 3-day Belgian escape.
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