Must-read Ghent city guide with tips for low-impact travel, helping you enjoy the best of this historical destination in East Flanders while treading lightly on the planet.
A trip to Ghent isn’t complete without exploring its UNESCO-listed sites and medieval landmarks, but the city’s forward-thinking innovation truly sets it apart. From its urban planning of a car-free centre and positive impact policies to its booming tech startup scene, driven by visionary entrepreneurs, Ghent is rapidly becoming the investment hub to watch.
Ghent’s large university population infuses its historic streets with youthful energy, complete with trendy cafes, affordable eateries, and dynamic cultural events. Yet, this lively atmosphere is welcoming to all. Ghent feels like a homely and inclusive city for every age group.
In this Ghent city guide, you’ll learn how to explore the city more thoughtfully through sustainable transport, organic cuisine, and places to stay. Hire a bike to cycle to Dok Noord, indulge in locally sourced meals and craft beers, and soak in the atmosphere of Belgium’s fourth-largest city.
How sustainable is Ghent?
Sustainability in Ghent matters to residents and business owners—a crucial step in achieving community and government buy-in. The Living Streets project is a shining example of how residents and local authorities can unite to promote conscious living. Temporarily closing streets to traffic creates pop-up living spaces where residents can connect and enjoy their community more sustainably. What a fabulous idea!
Part of Ghent’s strategy has been to create green axes to connect the city centre with nature, expanding cycling lanes and walkways, and reducing traffic with Europe’s largest low-traffic pedestrian zone. These initiatives aim to enhance urban mobility and improve the health and well-being of its residents.
Renewable and affordable energy has been a key focus in Ghent, with several innovative pilot projects launched in recent years. These include harnessing energy from wastewater and organic food waste in Dok Noord, the ‘Neighbourly Power’ initiative in Sint Amandsberg-Dampoort (2018-2020), and a strategy to transition two districts, Muide-Meulestede and Mariakerke, to fossil-free heating by 2030.
Thanks to the award-winning Gent Light Plan, the city’s streets and monuments glow softly, illuminating historical sites, and canals. The use of low-energy lamps reduces light pollution and creates significant energy savings.
Ghent has placed peri-urban farming at the heart of its urban food policy. Known as the vegetarian capital of Europe since the “Veggie Thursdays” campaign, the city also supports initiatives like the Buurtfruit project, a community orchard, and social restaurants.
How To Visit The Ghent Sustainably
Stay in Green Hotels in Gent
Comic Art Hotel
The Comic Art Hotel in Ghent is a one-of-a-kind stay celebrating Belgian comic book heroes. Asterix and Obelix figurines will welcome you at reception and a nod to the work of Blake and Mortimer in the bar. As an art lover, this characterful interior design is my ideal environment.
This family-owned hotel is housed in a beautifully renovated school building within Ghent’s low-emission zone (LEZ). The hotel offers 38 rooms, each thoughtfully designed with funky touches of comic art. My terrace bedroom featured a minimalist aesthetic, with comic-inspired artwork above the bed and a stand-alone tub in the open-plan bathroom that felt straight out of an interior magazine.
Eco-friendly practices at the hotel include refillable toiletries, a free drink for skipping housekeeping, and creative food waste management through staff sharing or the Too Good To Go app. Local suppliers provide Ghent-sourced beverages, beers, and cheeses. Plus, the crispy Belgian waffles, fluffy on the inside, are simply perfect.
|| CHECK AVAILABILITY OF COMIC ART HOTEL
Green-Certified Accommodations
- Treck Hostel – Quirky indoor camping hostel with caravan or dorm sleeping options with a delicious free breakfast and a non-profit bar. Upcycling, eco-friendly practices, and community partnerships, such as working with Enchanté, a homeless charity, are integral to its daily operations.
- B&B Villa Emma – A locally-owned guest house powered entirely by renewable energy, with rainwater reuse systems and an EV charging station. Guests can reduce their CO₂ footprint through two Belgian offset projects while enjoying homemade or locally sourced food from nearby farmers.
How To Reach Ghent Sustainably
Reaching Ghent sustainably is easy, thanks to its excellent connections via public transportation. Here are some eco-friendly options:
By Train
- From Brussels: Ghent is only 30 minutes from Brussels by train. Trains depart frequently from Brussels Central, Brussels South, and Brussels North stations to Gent-Sint-Pieters station.
- Within Belgium: Ghent is well-connected to other cities, including Bruges (30 minutes), Antwerp (1 hour), and Leuven (1 hour).
- From Other European Cities:
- Paris: Take a high-speed Thalys or TGV train to Brussels and transfer to a local train to Ghent.
- London: The Eurostar connects London to Brussels in about 2 hours, then take a direct train to Ghent.
- Amsterdam: Use the Intercity Brussels train, which takes about 3 hours with a transfer to Antwerp or Brussels.
By Bus
Long-distance bus companies like FlixBus and BlaBlaBus connect Ghent to other European cities. The bus station is near Gent-Dampoort or Gent-Sint-Pieters.
|| YOU MAY LIKE TO CHECK ROUTES WITH OMIO
By Bicycle
If you’re up for an adventure, cycling to Ghent can be a wonderful option! Belgium has an extensive cycling network with clear signage and flat terrain. Consider combining cycling with train travel (most Belgian trains accommodate bicycles).
By Car
For more eco-friendly car options, consider carpooling services like BlaBlaCar or driving an electric vehicle. Check EV car hire with Discover Cars
Stay mindful of Ghent’s Low Emission Zone (LEZ) if arriving by car. Only low-emission vehicles are allowed within the city limits. Think about using Ghent’s Park & Ride facilities on the outskirts instead of driving into the city centre. Free parking is available at locations such as Gentbrugge and Moscou, with convenient tram and bus connections.
|| YOU MAY LIKE TO READ MY TRAVEL GUIDE TO AMSTERDAM AND 2 DAYS IN THE AHUE
Getting Around Ghent Sustainably
Navigating Ghent sustainably is incredibly easy, as the city prioritises green transport. While in Ghent, I found walking and cycling to be the best ways to get around. Here’s a complete list of options:
Walk in the Car-Free City Centre
Ghent’s city centre is predominantly car-free, making it a joy to wander through streets looking at historical landmarks without worrying about traffic. However, do keep an eye out for bikes and trams, it’s not totally free of obstacles.
Use Public Transport (Trams & Buses)
Trams and buses, operated by De Lijn (Flemish public transport service), are efficient and well-connected to all major parts of Ghent. Tickets can be bought via the De Lijn app, vending machines, or at kiosks for cheaper rates than onboard, or consider a day pass for unlimited rides.
|| TOP TIP: CityCard Ghent includes public transport, one-day bike hire and entry to the top attractions in the city
Rent a Bicycle
Ghent is a cycling paradise with flat terrain and dedicated bike lanes. Rent a bike from services like Donkey Republic, Blue-Bike, and Bike Point at various points around the Ghent. There are plenty of cycling routes in and around Ghent to explore at your leisure.
|| TAKE A BIKE TOUR with a knowledgeable guide. I loved the stops at iconic landmarks and lesser-known sights to explain the history and quirky local legends.
Electric Boat Rides on the Canals
If you want to explore Ghent’s canals with a low impact, there are eco-friendly rides. De Bootjes van Gent operates a fleet of zero-emission boats with space for up to 325 passengers. For a truly serene, engine-free experience, it’s a good idea to check ahead to confirm the availability of the electric boats. Private eco-boats (up to 10 people) can be chartered with Watertoerist.
Best time to visit Ghent – Off-Peak and Shoulder Season
The best time to visit Ghent is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to early June) and autumn (September to early November). These months bring mild weather, more affordable accommodation and better availability for tours and activities. Although the weather can be unpredictable, I found that during my October trip, a t-shirt and gilet were perfect for the conditions!
Ghent City Guide Map
Although I couldn’t visit everything on my must-see list in my Ghent city guide due to limited time, I’m excited to share my research to help you plan your own trip. I hope this map of things to do in Ghent proves to be a handy resource for you to navigate the city easily.
CLICK TO VIEW THE MAP OF THINGS TO DO IN GHENT
Quick Links for Ghent Trip Planning
Best Things To Do in Ghent as a Responsible Tourist
Dine Organic Restaurants in Ghent
Ghent has elevated sustainable dining with its award-winning “Veggie Thursdays” (Donderdag Veggiedag) campaign, launched in 2009 to promote plant-based eating. The focus on organic, locally sourced ingredients is evident in its many plant-based eateries, markets and Vegan Summer Fest—it’s a real hub for conscious foodies.
Based on experience, my top recommendations for sustainable places to eat in Ghent are:
- Parnassus – Cafe with a purpose in a Franciscan Church. This social employment project serves healthy lunches, generally one meat and one veggie option, from 11:30 am – 2 pm, Monday to Friday.
- Le Botaniste – A fully plant-based restaurant offering organic bowls, gluten-free dishes, and a selection of vegan wines. Eat al fresco or inside amongst the apothecary-inspired decor.
- Knol&Kool – 100% vegan cafe and mini-market. Expect organic, homemade and creative dishes from vol-au-vegan and no-meat balls with zero food waste practices.
- Edelrot – Natural wine bar and cafe with comfort snacks like bitterballen or burrata, and a great selection for vegans like kimchi cauliflower and oyster mushroom tempura.
Explore Ghent’s green spaces
Ghent has an abundance of green spaces in which to unwind in nature. Visiting the city in autumn, I loved walking among the crimson leaves, and I can only imagine how popular these parks become during the summer months.
Appelbrugparkje is a small park with beautiful waterfront views of the Groot Vleeshuis. Baudelopark, the former site of an abbey garden and a botanical garden, is a picturesque stroll from the Museum of Industry to the historic centre. Muinkpark was a serene experience, made even more peaceful by the sound of a talented guitarist playing. Once the site of a 19th-century zoo, the park still holds subtle nods to its past, with animal carvings scattered throughout.
For a mix of history and nature, the UNESCO beguinages in Ghent are lovely spots to explore, some with tranquil grassy courtyards. Founded in the Middle Ages, these peaceful communities were home to lay women, known as beguines, who lived religious lives without taking formal vows and were free to live independently, making their own rules. Go, ladies!
Discover the history of Ghent
Ghent’s compact layout makes it easy to uncover the timeline through its fascinating museums and historic landmarks. Begin your journey at the Gravensteen, dating back to 1180, the formidable medieval castle that functioned as a fortress, courthouse, and prison. The audio tour, narrated by local Belgian comedian Wouter Deprez, is a humorous experience as you wander through this well-preserved medieval ‘Castle of the Counts’.
Nearby, the Belfry of Ghent, a UNESCO World Heritage site, once served as a guard tower, alarm bell, and secure treasury. Climbing the 300-foot tower rewards you with panoramic views, with stops along the way to discover Roland’s Bell, the 54-bell carillon and the iconic gilded dragon.
Dubbed the “Manchester of the mainland,” Ghent played a pivotal role in Europe’s industrial revolution. The Museum of Industry brings this history to life, chronicling the city’s rise as a hub for textiles, technology and innovation. STAM – Ghent City Museum, housed in a former abbey, has a cool interactive display of the city that you can walk over to see how Ghent has transformed over time.
|| TOP TIP: Take a Historical Walking Tour by a Local or Guided Walking Tour and Canal Boat Trip. Make sure you grab a Ghent City Pass for museum discounts and inclusive public transport
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Gilded dragon in the Belfry tower
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Roland’s Bell
Experience Ghent’s Art and Culture
Cultural Events in Ghent
As a UNESCO Creative City of Music, it comes as no surprise that Ghent has a packed cultural calendar with something for every musical taste. I’d love to return and immerse myself in one of these fantastic festivals in the city.
The Gent Jazz Festival brings world-class blues to the city, while the Flanders Festival is a highlight for classical music enthusiasts, and hip-hop and street art fans can enjoy the Back2Scratch event. The Ghent Festivities, a 10-day celebration, is an all-inclusive experience filled with music, theatre, and historic processions.
Art Galleries in Ghent
Ghent is home to SMAK (Stedelijk Museum voor Actuele Kunst), which houses thought-provoking exhibitions by international and emerging contemporary artists. In contrast, the Museum of Fine Arts (MSK) offers a more traditional collection, with over 9000 masterpieces from renowned artists such as Gustav Klimt and Peter Paul Rubens. Plan your visit carefully, as both SMAK and the Museum of Fine Arts (MSK) are closed on Mondays.
One of Ghent’s most iconic artistic treasures is The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb, a masterpiece by the Van Eyck brothers, a 15th-century altarpiece located in Saint Bavo’s Cathedral. The last entry to the cathedral is at 4:30 pm, and by chance, I discovered that this is when you can witness the closing of the polyptych.
Search for Street Art in Ghent
Ghent’s streets are a canvas of urban creativity, with installations scattered around the city in the most unexpected places by the talents of international and local artists. Werregarenstraat, also known as Graffiti Alley, is a constantly evolving open-air gallery where artists can legally express themselves. Every visit reveals something new as layers of art transform the space over time.
Street art in Ghent takes inspiration from many sources, including Van Eyck’s famous Mystic Lamb painting, reimagined in modern interpretations. Artists like Hyuro have created striking murals, while Isaac Cordal’s 15 miniature figurines are cleverly placed in hidden spots. Some of my favourite works spotted include the surreal creations by ROA, whose monochrome animal murals are globally acclaimed, and the colourful pieces by local artist Bue the Warrior, whose bold style brightens the city’s streets.
|| TAKE A STREET ART BIKE TOUR || DOWNLOAD A MAP OF GHENT STREET ART
Get a Taste of Ghent’s Brewing Traditions
If UNESCO has recognised Belgian beer culture as part of its “Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity,” then it definitely deserves a place on my list of sustainable things to do in Ghent. I managed to jump around the city, squeezing in a beer here and there in the name of research, and these were my favourite spots!
- Gruut Brewery is renowned for its unique gruit-based beers, brewed in a medieval style without hops. Their range includes five botanical varieties, from a refreshing white beer to a rich, gluten-free brown ale.
- Dok Brewery in the hip industrial neighbourhood of Dok Noord has 30 beers on tap, a mix of their own brews and international selections.
- De Dulle Griet in Vrijdagmarkt stocks over 500 500 local and international beers. Famous for pouring Max Van Het Huis in huge glasses where drinks must leave a shoe as a deposit to the bartender.
- Bar Beenhouwer – A compact yet characterful bar in a former butcher’s shop, serving an impressive selection of local and international beers.
- Stroom is an independent microbrewery that runs entirely on renewable energy. They deliver their beers around the city using an e-cargo bike, making their brews available in most local establishments.
|| TOP TIP: Discover Ghent’s World of Beer with a Local or explore the city through the ‘Ghent Scenic Craft Beer Walks‘ at your leisure—both are fantastic ways to discover local breweries and bars.
Shop Sustainably in Ghent
Eco-Shopping
I usually don’t enjoy shopping, but I had a great time exploring the shops in Ghent. Every entrepreneur has a unique story and a genuine passion for what they do. Here are some highlights you must seek out on your trip to Ghent:
- Blommm collaborates with local organic flower growers to create beautiful fresh and dried flower arrangements, and they also feature artists’ vases and candles for sale. Plus, they have a cute café space as well.
- Holy Cow Chocolate specialises in bean-to-bar chocolate made from carefully selected ingredients from their sustainable cacao farm in Kerala.
- Tierenteyn-Verlent is a must-visit for authentic, spicy mustard made from a secret family recipe; it certainly packs a punch in the flavour stakes! Established in the 18th century, you can pick up dressings, pickles and vinaigrettes.
- OHNE is a zero-waste supermarket promoting sustainable living and the best place for local and leave-no-trace food produce or chemical-free household items. Ohne is the perfect spot to stock up on snacks for your train journey or a picnic and pick up a bottle of RoomeR, the elderflower liqueur, as a thoughtful gift.
Farmers Markets & Local Produce
Connect with local farmers and artisans at a variety of markets around Ghent.
- Vrijdagmarkt, held every Friday, is one of the oldest and most popular and sells fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, meats, and other regional specialities. I came away with some flavoursome honey from a beekeeper!
- Lousbergmarkt is an indoor market where independent producers, including local cheese makers, bakers, and small-scale farmers, come together to sell their fresh, high-quality products.
- Groentenmarkt square holds a farmers market on Friday mornings from April to September and a crafts fair each weekend.
Skip The day trips—Staying in Ghent is worth it!
Skip the day trip from Brussels or Bruges and stay in Ghent instead. Spread your spending with cute accommodations and top-class restaurants. Stay longer in Gent to discover hidden treasures beyond the well-known landmarks. Trust me, spending more time in Ghent is absolutely worth it!
Thank you to #VisitGent for supporting me on my mission to write a Ghent city guide for responsible travellers. This itinerary was researched by myself. All opinions are my own.
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