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Are you thinking of going to Belgium any time soon and wondering what to do in Ghent? Permit us to fill you in on all the details about the activities and attractions currently the most fascinating ones to partake in. We will walk you through the many options that Ghent offers in terms of museums, historic homes, shopping, restaurants, and pubs, and we are certain that you will find something that appeals to you. By reading this, discover all there is to see and do in the city!

Ghent is one of the oldest cities in Belgium. During its existence, it has amassed a plethora of attractions, ranging from picturesque medieval neighborhoods to cutting-edge architectural wonders. Here is a list of the most popular attractions in the canal city, including picturesque ruins overtaken by nature and some of the most sought-after artwork in history.

1. What To Do In Ghent: The Pater Shol

The Pater Shol, Ghent
Despite its monastic-sounding name, the Patershol, also known as the ‘Monks’ Hole,’ is a lovely neighborhood. Its quaint alleyways wind around one other like spiderwebs, and its antique buildings are now home to small restaurants, art galleries, and even an old-fashioned sweets shop.

2.Temmerman, the Confectioner's Shop

Temmerman Ghent
Temmerman is an old-fashioned confectionery located in the Patershol area, with a Baroque facade dating back to the 17th century on the exterior of the building and sugar heaven on the inside. Their specialty is the traditional sweets of Ghent, which often have humorous names.

3. What To Do In Ghent: Fortress of the Counts

Fortress of the Counts, Ghent

Count Filips of the Elzas constructed this castle amid the old city in the 12th century as a display of power to compete with the large homes built by Ghent’s wealthy patricians. However, when it came time to restore the castle in the 19th century, they analyzed the  historical documents using the most romantic interpretation imaginable. The castle today has an abundance of turrets. After seeing the torture rooms in the basements, one is left with an even darker impression of the inside of the building.

4. The Cathedral of Saint Bavo

The Cathedral of Saint Bavo

St. Bavo’s is a Gothic cathedral that has come to fulfill a second duty as an unofficial museum of religious art. Anyone with an interest in art history should be eager to peek inside St. Bavo’s has become a museum of religious art in its own right.  Additionally to priceless altarpieces by Rubens and the Van Eyck brothers – the latter painted The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb. Many consider it the masterpiece from the Flemish primitives and, because of this, it has been the target of multiple thefts. An extravagant Rococo pulpit, stunning stained-glass windows, and countless other gems are currently on display.

5. What To Do In Ghent: Residence of Alijn

Residence of Alijn, Ghent
A museum that is both odd and charming is where Gentenaars go to document their daily rituals and lives as they have always lived. The modest chambers of the House of Alijn once used as an almshouse, are filled with sepia family photographs, donated home movies, and displays focused on history with a little ‘h’ for once.

6. The Abbey of St. Peter

The Abbey of St. Peter, Bruxelles

St. Peter’s still has its original monks’ dining hall, complete with an outstanding ceiling fresco, and it often holds famous exhibitions. Accordingly, the terraced gardens are by far the most popular attraction at this historic site. They have white-blossomed fruit trees, vineyards, and a herb garden, all hidden by the enormous walls surrounding the monastery.

7. What To Do In Ghent: The Flower Market at Kouter

Flower Market at Kouter, Ghent

No activity in Ghent can compare to a walk around the flower-filled Kouter market on a Sunday morning to get the day off to a good start. This is a tradition that dates back centuries in the city. Many kiosks serve oysters and champagne, and a brass band will frequently perform on the elaborate gazebo that dates back to the 19th century and is located in the plaza’s center.

8. The Appelbrug, with its accompanying park

Appelbrug, Ghent

The Appelbrug Park on the waterside, located across from the Design Museum, is considered one of the most picturesque areas in Ghent. It is between a high-end eating establishment and a Mediterranean cuisine lunch spot. When you are standing on the new Appelbrug pedestrian bridge leading to Vismarkt Square, you will get a wonderful perspective of the historic structures on the opposite side of the Leie. Some examples of these buildings are the ancient fishing mines and butcher halls.

9. What To Do In Ghent: The Town Hall

The Town Hall, Ghent
The City Hall of Ghent is a complex public structure that seems like it was inspired by both Italian palazzi and grandiose Gothic palaces. However, it is most famous for its Wedding Chapel, which has stunning stained-glass windows and is beautiful.

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