We warmly welcome you to Ghent, this beautiful city of art declared the third most authentic historical destination in the world by National Geographic Traveler Magazine in 2008!
Ghent is a city that has so much to offer. The famous university guarantees a vibrant nightlife, affordable bars, restaurants and trendy boutiques. You'll also find the cultural diversity of other cities thanks to the presence of different cultures and international restaurants. Belgium plays an important role in the field of modern art, music, theatre and Ghent also embraces this innovative culture. But the city retains its traditional roots: from old buildings to cosy markets, museums and parks.
You will discover that Ghent is so much more than just a tourist destination. It is a lively city where traditional Flemish culture and modern Belgian life come together.
Ghent is a small, historic city that can easily be explored on foot. The two districts, the historic centre and the museum district merge seamlessly.
Culture
In Ghent there is a rich offer of visual arts, festivals, film, literature, music, dance, performing arts and artistic projects. Discover its historic houses, museums about the city, contemporary art, folklore, design ... Something for everyone.
Nature
Discover the existing large parks and nature reserves and those that will soon be added.
Do
Let a guide show you around the city on foot, by boat or in a carriage. Prefer to go out on your own? You can walk, cycle or sail. You will also find all the information you need about shopping, going out, sports and relaxing.
Festivals
Ghent is the festival city par excellence!
As a city of culture, Ghent is host to many festivals. The most important are the Gent Jazz Festival (July), Gentse Feesten (July), Festival of Flanders (September-October) and the Ghent Film Festival (October) and the Ghent Light Festival (every 3 years in January, February).
But also during the rest of the year you can go here for smaller theatre, film and music festivals.
Ghent illuminated
As soon as it gets dark, it becomes light again in Ghent. Thousands of lamps and spotlights light up all over the city, which together form the Ghent Lighting Plan. The carefully created atmospheres and accents enchant the city. Ghent is therefore ideal for a romantic stay! The Lighting Plan is a concept by the well-known lighting designer Roland Jéol. In 2004 the City of Ghent won the International City-People-Light Award and in the Michelin travel guide the plan was awarded 3 stars.
You can admire the lighting during a Light Walk with or without a guide.