Ghent City Centre Travel Guide
Ghent
Visit Ghent City Centre
Popular places to visit
Gravensteen Castle
One of the only remaining medieval castles in Flanders, this historic fortress provides a fascinating insight into the weaponry, culture, and drama of Ghent’s past.
Ghent Town Hall
See one of the city’s most unusual landmarks, a striking building constructed over the course of almost four centuries.
Saint Bavo Cathedral
One of the iconic Three Towers of Ghent, this historic cathedral is known for its outstanding collection of art.
St. Nicholas' Church
A beautiful example of Scheldt Gothic architecture, this striking blue-gray church is among the oldest landmarks in the city.
Belfry of Ghent
Visit one of Ghent’s most famous attractions, an imposing tower that defines the city’s skyline and symbolizes its independence.
Old Meat Market Hall
During your visit to Ghent, you can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Old Meat Market Hall. Experience the theatre scene and museums in this culturally rich area.
Things to do
Ghent: 50-Minute Medieval Center Guided Boat Trip
Ghent Walking Tour with Optional Add-ons: Boat & Beer
Ghent and Bruges Full Day Tour from Brussels
Evening Tour of the Dark Side of Gent
Ghent Walking Tour with Audioguide on Your Smartphone
Top hotels in Ghent City Centre
B&B HOTEL Gent Centrum
Perfectly located, staff are very accommodating, breakfast is ok for the price. The room is very clean, bed is very comfortable. Standard room is good for one person.
Reviewed on 29 Mar 2026
NH Collection Gent
Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Reylof Ghent
Location a significant attraction. Short walk to restaurants and to many of the sites in the city centre, yet not overly busy right around the hotel. Easy to get to if you're driving. Parking about 100 metres away for 15 euros daily.
Reviewed on 25 Mar 2026
Ghent Marriott Hotel
Clean, friendly staff, met all expectations and especially situated for easy walk around downtown. Loved it.
Reviewed on 31 Mar 2026
Getaway Gent
Great little spot not far from St Bavo’s. Lots of the other visitors there were pretty noisy though, so it doesn’t seem quite like a place for those looking for peaceful rest.
Reviewed on 19 Mar 2026
Novotel Gent Centrum
I was staying for a meeting and the arrangements for that were very good. Friendly staff, large room, right in the city centre. Pedestrian area at the front but taxis can access. Don't be put off by the decaying Novotel sign, the building has been refurbished.
Reviewed on 3 Apr 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Ghent City Centre
Graslei and Korenlei
If you're spending some time in Graslei and Korenlei, Korenmarkt Square and St. Michael's Bridge are top sights worth seeing.
Patershol
Patershol is noteworthy for its restaurants, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Gravensteen Castle and Old Fish Market.
Red Light District
While there might not be top attractions in Red Light District, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Glass Alley and Capitole Theatre.
Zuid
You'll enjoy the parks and shopping in Zuid. You might want to make time for a stop at Ghent South Shopping Center or Ghent Public Library.
St. Macharius
Unique features of St. Macharius include the historical sites and restaurants. Make a stop by St. Bavo's Abbey or Pius X Chapel while you're exploring the area.
Kunstenkwartier
Kunstenkwartier is noteworthy for its bars, and you can make a stop at top attractions like St. Peter's Square and Book Tower.
