After a day in Brussels, we set out to explore more of Belgium with a guided day tour that would take us to both Ghent and Bruges in a single day. Ghent was our first stop.
The pace of a group tour meant we were only able to experience Ghent briefly, but even in that short time, the city left a strong impression.
The city sits at the meeting point of the Rivers Scheldt and Leie, and its history stretches back to Iron Age settlements. The name itself is believed to come from the Celtic word “ganda,” meaning confluence—a fitting description for a city shaped by water, trade, and movement.
During the Middle Ages, Ghent grew into one of the wealthiest and most powerful cities in Europe, largely thanks to its thriving wool and textile industry. The marshy land surrounding the rivers proved ideal for sheep farming, which helped fuel its rise as a major center of commerce.
Ghent was our first stop on a day tour through Belgium from Brussels to Bruges, and quickly became one of the most unexpectedly rich and layered cities we visited.
Exploring Ghent
- Market Square & Jacob van Artevelde
- Churches, Almshouses & Living History
- Lacework & Life Along the Water
- Gravensteen Castle: Castle of the Counts
- Guildhalls & the Medieval Trade Center
- Saint Nicholas Church
- Town Hall & the Belfry
- FAQ: Ghent
Market Square & Jacob van Artevelde
In the heart of the city’s market square stands the imposing statue of Jacob van Artevelde, known as the “Wise Man of Ghent.”
In the 1300s, during the Hundred Years’ War, van Artevelde defied political pressure to maintain trade relationships with England. His decision protected Ghent’s powerful textile industry and helped preserve its economic strength during a turbulent time in European history.
His legacy still stands in the center of the city today—both literally and symbolically.
Churches, Almshouses & Living History
As we wandered deeper into Ghent, we came across a small red-brick church dating back to the 12th century, surrounded by stories that feel almost like folklore.
According to local history, a conflict between feuding families led to tragedy and restitution, with penalties paid to the church in the form of daily offerings. Over time, those funds were used to build almshouses in the square to care for the elderly and those in need.
Today, the former almshouses are part of the House of Alijn, a folk museum that preserves everyday Belgian life through different eras.
It was one of those places where history feels less like distant events and more like something still woven into the city itself.
Lacework & Life Along the Water
One of the most memorable moments in Ghent was stumbling upon a group of local women creating traditional lace by hand.
Using bobbins and thread, their hands moved in a rhythmic, almost hypnotic motion as intricate patterns slowly took shape. It was fascinating to watch—a reminder of the craftsmanship that has long been part of Belgian culture.
It was one of those quiet travel moments that stays with you more than the big monuments.
Throughout Ghent, the canals and waterfront buildings tell the story of its industrial past. What were once busy centers of textile production and trade have now been beautifully restored into cafés, restaurants, and hotels.
The city has done an incredible job of preserving its history while allowing it to evolve into something still very much alive.
Gravensteen Castle: Castle of the Counts
At the center of Ghent stands one of its most iconic landmarks: Gravensteen Castle, or the Castle of the Counts.
Built in 1180, the castle originally served as the residence of the Count of Flanders. Its imposing gatehouse, marked with a cross symbolizing participation in the Crusades, was designed to project power and authority.
Inspired by Crusader fortresses in the Middle East, Gravensteen was built as much to intimidate as it was to defend.
Over the centuries, the castle’s purpose shifted dramatically. It served as a royal residence, prison, courthouse, mint, and even a cotton factory during the Industrial Revolution before eventually being restored as a museum.
What remains today is a structure that reflects the full complexity of Ghent’s history—power, adaptation, and reinvention.
Guildhalls & the Medieval Trade Center
Along the river, Ghent’s former guildhalls still stand as a reminder of the city’s medieval prosperity.
This area was once the economic heart of the city, where goods were stored, measured, taxed, and traded. Among the most notable buildings are:
- The Koornstapelhuis, a grain storage house
- The Tweede Korenmetershuis, home of the grain measurer
- A narrow tollhouse where taxes on grain shipments were collected
Each building tells a small part of the larger story of Ghent’s rise as a commercial powerhouse.
Saint Nicholas Church
Nearby, Saint Nicholas Church rises above the square, one of the city’s oldest landmarks. Built in the 13th century, it became closely tied to the surrounding guilds, each of which maintained its own chapel within the church.
Together with the city’s other towers, it helps define Ghent’s unmistakable medieval skyline.
Town Hall & the Belfry
Our final stop in Ghent was the Town Hall, a striking building that reflects the city’s architectural diversity. One side is Gothic, while another shows clear Renaissance influence—a visual reminder of how Ghent has evolved over time.
Just behind it stands the Ghent Belfry, a 14th-century tower rising nearly 300 feet into the sky, crowned with a golden dragon. It is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the three iconic towers that define the city’s skyline, alongside Saint Nicholas Church and Saint Bavo’s Cathedral.
Standing beneath them, it is easy to understand why Ghent once held such power and influence in medieval Europe.
FAQ: Ghent
- Is Ghent worth visiting?
Yes. Ghent is one of Belgium’s most historic and visually striking cities, known for its medieval architecture, canals, and Gravensteen Castle.
- How much time do you need in Ghent?
One full day is enough to see the main highlights, though staying longer allows for a more relaxed exploration of its neighborhoods and canals.
- Is Ghent better than Bruges?
Ghent is larger, more lived-in, and less tourist-heavy than Bruges. Many travelers enjoy both, as they offer different experiences of medieval Belgium.
- What is Ghent famous for?
Ghent is known for its medieval history, textile trade heritage, canals, guildhalls, Gravensteen Castle, and vibrant cultural scene.
- Can you do Ghent as a day trip from Brussels?
Yes. Ghent is about 30–40 minutes from Brussels by train, making it a popular and easy day trip.
- What is Gravensteen Castle?
Gravensteen is a 12th-century castle built for the Counts of Flanders. It has served as a residence, prison, mint, and now a museum.
We came to Ghent with only a basic idea of what to expect, but left feeling like we had only scratched the surface of a deeply layered and fascinating city.
At the same time, this was the day we realized something important about how we travel as a family—we would not choose a group tour like this again.
While it was incredible to see both Ghent and Bruges in one day, the pace felt rushed, and it was difficult to keep up while trying to truly experience each city. Ghent, especially, felt like a place that deserved more time.
Next time, we would choose to explore at our own pace, wandering slowly through the streets and allowing the city to reveal itself without a schedule.
Because Ghent is not a place meant to be rushed—it is a place meant to be discovered.
If you have enjoyed this post with the castle in the city, then you may be interested in these other castles:
Thank you for coming along on this visit to the city of Ghent. May your fortress be strong and your moat be wide to keep you safe inside.
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