City Break in Ghent

Ghent for couples

Romance is hard to avoid in Belgium’s fairytale cities, with wonderful architecture and cobbled streets to wander, hand-in-hand with your partner. Take a romantic horse-and-carriage ride through the city for a unique way to see all of the sights in one go, as well as evoke memories of classic European romance stories. Alternatively, hire bicycles or a tandem and find your own way around the city!

Once you’re done exploring, settle down to a romantic dinner at one of Ghent’s local restaurants, such as the House of Eliott, with a wonderful view of the river, or the aptly-named Valentijn restaurant, with its excellent wine list. Be sure to check out the city’s chocolate shops for some of Belgium’s most famous produce.

Ghent for families

One of the best ways to see Ghent without tiring out the little ones is by boat. Hop on a barge and see the city from its famous canals while your guide gives you a multi-lingual tour. If your kids love art, then St Bavo’s Cathedral is a must-see, housing the famous Adoration of the Lamb painting, with an audio tour describing the 12-panel piece in detail. Alternatively, check out more modern pieces at the Design Museum, with futuristic pieces that are sure to enthral the kids.

Temmerman is a quaint 19th century sweet shop that sells regional specialties such as the dark purple neus. Chewy sweets that don’t contain too much sugar, so you can eat them without guilt.

Ghent for friends  

It isn’t hard to have a great time in Belgium with your friends. After all, Belgium is home to three of the finest things in life; great chocolate, great chips and great beer! So it’s easy to treat yourself in Ghent, with a number of chocolate shops, bars and cafes around the city.

One of the best bars in the city is Het Waterhuis Aan de Bierkant, with an overwhelming selection of beers and a beautiful waterside terrace, it’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon in the sun. Alternatively, try the Galgenhuijse, a 17th century bar where condemned prisoners went to enjoy their last drink, with 60 beers to choose from.

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