Ghent Itinerary 10 Days: The Complete Discovery (2026)

Welcome to Ghent! Upon arrival, settle into your accommodation and then immediately dive into the heart of the city. Begin your exploration at the iconic Ghent Altarpiece inside St. Bavo's Cathedral, a masterpiece of Flemish art. Afterward, wander through the charming streets, marveling at the medieval architecture. Take a leisurely canal boat tour from Graslei or Korenlei to get a unique perspective of the city's historic facades. For dinner, indulge in traditional Flemish stew at 't Klokhuys, known for its cozy atmosphere and authentic cuisine. End your evening with a stroll across Sint-Michiels bridge, offering breathtaking views of the illuminated Three Towers of Ghent. Don't forget to try some local Belgian frites from a street vendor!

Today, step back in time with a visit to Gravensteen Castle, the 'Castle of the Counts.' Explore its formidable walls, torture chambers, and enjoy panoramic views of Ghent from its battlements. Afterward, cross over to the picturesque Patershol district, one of Ghent's oldest and most charming neighborhoods. Lose yourself in its narrow, cobbled streets, filled with quaint houses and excellent restaurants. For lunch, savor some delicious Flemish specialties at 'De Graslei' with views of the canal. In the afternoon, consider renting a kayak or small boat to paddle along the canals yourself, offering a more intimate experience. As evening approaches, enjoy a delightful dinner at 'Pakhuis', a former warehouse transformed into a grand brasserie.

Immerse yourself in Ghent's vibrant art scene today. Begin your day at the Museum of Fine Arts (MSK), home to an impressive collection of European art from the Middle Ages to the early 20th century. Adjacent to it, explore the contemporary art at S.M.A.K. (Municipal Museum of Contemporary Art), showcasing innovative and thought-provoking works. Both museums are located within the beautiful Citadel Park, perfect for a relaxing stroll between visits. For lunch, grab a delicious sandwich or salad at a cafe within the park. In the afternoon, explore the trendy design shops and boutiques around the Brabantdam street. End your day with a modern Belgian dining experience at 'Oak Restaurant', known for its innovative cuisine and local ingredients.

Today, discover some of Ghent's lesser-known but equally captivating areas. Start your morning exploring the tranquil Princenhof district, the former residence of Emperor Charles V. Wander through its quiet courtyards and discover the charming Augustinian Monastery. Head towards the bustling Vrijdagmarkt (Friday Market Square), even if it's not Friday, to admire the impressive buildings and the statue of Jacob van Artevelde. Enjoy a traditional Ghentse Waterzooi (chicken or fish stew) for lunch at 'De Flandrien' near the square. In the afternoon, explore the quirky shops and antique stores around the Serpentstraat. Don't miss a visit to the Gruut City Brewery for a tasting of locally brewed beers. For dinner, try the authentic Belgian cuisine at 'De Abt', known for its extensive beer list.

Escape the urban bustle and embrace Ghent's natural beauty today. Start your morning with a visit to the Ghent University Botanical Garden, a serene oasis featuring a diverse collection of plants, greenhouses, and tranquil ponds. It's a perfect spot for a peaceful walk and some stunning photography. For lunch, pack a picnic to enjoy in the vast Blaarmeersen Recreation Park, or grab a bite at one of the park's casual eateries. Spend your afternoon exploring Blaarmeersen, where you can walk, cycle, or even try some water sports on the lake if the weather permits. It's a fantastic place to observe local life and enjoy the outdoors. In the evening, head back towards the city center and dine at 'Karel De Stoute', a charming restaurant known for its seasonal dishes and cozy ambiance.

Delve into Ghent's intellectual and creative side today. Begin your morning with a visit to the iconic Boekentoren (Book Tower), a masterpiece of functionalist architecture designed by Henry van de Velde. While access inside might be limited, its exterior is impressive, and you can explore the surrounding university buildings. Afterward, immerse yourself in the world of design at the Design Museum Ghent. Its diverse collection spans from Art Nouveau to contemporary design, offering fascinating insights. For lunch, enjoy a light meal and excellent coffee at 'Mokabon', a classic Ghent coffee house. Spend your afternoon exploring the charming streets around the Design Museum, particularly Drabstraat and Jan Breydelstraat, known for their antique shops and art galleries. Conclude your day with dinner at 'De Superette', a popular spot for wood-fired pizzas and artisanal bread.

Discover Ghent's vibrant street art scene and alternative culture today. Start your morning at the famous Werregarenstraatje, also known as the 'Graffiti Alley,' where artists are free to express themselves, resulting in an ever-changing canvas of colorful murals. Continue your exploration of street art by following the 'Sorry, Not Sorry' street art route, which guides you to various murals and installations across the city. For lunch, explore the diverse food stalls at Holy Food Market, offering a range of international cuisines in a unique setting. In the afternoon, head towards DOK (DOKKANTINE), a creative hub and urban playground, especially lively during warmer months with events, food trucks, and a relaxed atmosphere. Enjoy a casual dinner and local beers at one of the pop-up bars or restaurants around DOK.

Today is all about tantalizing your taste buds with Belgium's famous culinary delights. Start your morning with a visit to a local chocolatiers like 'Chocolatier Van Hoorebeke' or 'Mary' to sample exquisite Belgian chocolates and perhaps buy some souvenirs. Next, dive into the world of Belgian beer with a guided beer tasting session at a traditional pub like 'De Dulle Griet', famous for its extensive beer menu and unique atmosphere. For lunch, enjoy some classic Belgian sandwiches or a hearty croque monsieur at a local brasserie. In the afternoon, consider a hands-on chocolate workshop if you're interested in learning the art of chocolate making. Conclude your day with a delightful dinner at 'Restaurant De Vitrine', known for its creative dishes and excellent wine pairings.

While Ghent offers endless charm, today you have the option to explore another beautiful Belgian city. Take a short train ride to Bruges, the 'Venice of the North,' and wander its cobblestone streets, take a canal cruise, and visit the Belfry. Alternatively, head to Antwerp, a city renowned for its fashion, diamonds, and vibrant art scene, where you can explore the Rubens House or the MAS Museum. For lunch, enjoy local specialties in whichever city you choose – perhaps mussels and frites in Bruges or a delicious waffle in Antwerp. Return to Ghent in the late afternoon, refreshed from your excursion. For your farewell dinner in Ghent, treat yourself to a memorable meal at 'Horseele', a Michelin-starred restaurant offering refined cuisine and panoramic city views.

On your final day, enjoy a leisurely morning in Ghent. Depending on your departure time, revisit a favorite spot or explore areas you might have missed. Perhaps do some last-minute souvenir shopping for local crafts, lace, or more chocolates along the Langemunt or Veldstraat. Enjoy a relaxed brunch at a charming cafe like 'Le Pain Quotidien' or 'OR Coffee Roasters' for excellent coffee and pastries. Take one last walk along the canals, soaking in the beautiful atmosphere of this unique city. Head to the train station for your onward journey, filled with wonderful memories of your 10-day adventure in Ghent. Remember to pick up any final foodie treats like cuberdons (nose candies) before you leave!