Ghent is a vibrant and charming city in Belgium, perfect for a family short break. Just a couple of hours from London by Eurostar, it combines medieval history, beautiful canals, and lively streets with plenty of activities for all ages. Whether you love exploring castles, tasting local food, or enjoying city views, Ghent has something to offer everyone.
Visiting with children or teenagers can feel tricky, but Ghent makes it easy to plan a trip that pleases the whole family. From historic landmarks like Gravensteen Castle and St Bavo’s Cathedral to interactive museums, scenic walks, and quirky streets, there’s always something interesting to see or do.
Moreover, Ghent is compact and walkable, which means you can explore much of the city centre on foot. In addition, the mix of student energy, cultural events, and local food spots creates a lively atmosphere that families often enjoy.
In this guide, you’ll discover 15 of the best things to do in Ghent with your family, from climbing towers and tasting Belgian treats to wandering picturesque streets and enjoying unique city experiences. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, these ideas will help you make the most of your family time in this beautiful Belgian city.
What We Did in Ghent
During our family trip to Ghent, we focused on activities that everyone could enjoy—two adults and two teenagers—so our sightseeing and food choices were aimed at keeping the whole family happy.
We started by exploring the historic city centre, taking in the canals, cobbled streets, and beautiful medieval buildings. Highlights included climbing the Belfry of Ghent for panoramic views and wandering around the lively Graslei and Korenlei area.
We also visited Gravensteen Castle, discovering its towers, staircases, and even the macabre torture exhibits, which fascinated the teens. For indoor activities, we explored STAM (Stadsmuseum Gent) to learn about the city’s history in a fun, interactive way.
1. Climb the Belfry of Ghent
One of the first things we did in Ghent was climb the Belfry, the tallest belfry in Belgium at 91 metres. It’s a must-visit for anyone who enjoys panoramic city views.
You can take a lift part of the way, but we chose to climb the steps to get some exercise—and to earn our waffles later! At the top, a 360-degree viewing platform offers stunning views over the city centre, the canals, churches, and St Bavo’s Cathedral. It’s also fascinating to see all the construction and restoration happening around the city.
Inside the belfry, you’ll find the historic Roeland Bell, which was once rung to warn citizens of danger. Additionally, the carillon plays every 15 minutes, adding a charming soundtrack to your visit.
Climbing the Belfry is not just about the views; it’s a mix of history, architecture, and fun that makes it a perfect first stop for families exploring Ghent.
2. Wander the Streets Around Graslei and Korenlei
After visiting the Belfry, we wandered along Graslei and Korenlei, two of Ghent’s most picturesque streets. In the Middle Ages, this area was a busy port and the heart of the Flanders grain trade. Today, it’s a lively hub filled with cobbled streets, historic buildings, and pavement cafés.
Strolling here is perfect for families, as you can stop to take photos, watch the boats on the canals, or even take a short boat tour to see the city from the water. The area is especially magical after dark, when the buildings are illuminated and their reflections shimmer in the canal—a view not to miss on a Ghent light walk.
Moreover, this area captures the charm of Ghent perfectly. It’s easy to spend time exploring at your own pace, enjoying local snacks, or simply soaking in the medieval architecture and lively atmosphere.
Wandering around Graslei and Korenlei is a relaxing yet memorable way to experience the historic heart of Ghent with the family.
3. Visit Gravensteen (Castle of the Counts)
A visit to Gravensteen, also known as the Castle of the Counts, is a must when exploring Ghent. This medieval fortress has a fascinating history, having served as a seat of power, a prison, and even a cotton mill. Thanks to extensive restorations by locals, it now stands as one of the city’s most important landmarks.
Inside, you can explore towers, staircases, and turrets, giving a real sense of medieval architecture. One room contains historic torture equipment, which is macabre but intriguing for older children and teens. While the castle isn’t lavishly decorated, the charm lies in its authentic stone structures and panoramic city views from the ramparts.
Gravensteen is also family-friendly, offering plenty of space to wander and learn about Ghent’s history and culture. Audio guides or signs explain the castle’s past, making it both educational and fun.
Overall, Gravensteen combines history, adventure, and architecture, making it an exciting stop for families wanting to step back into Ghent’s medieval past.
4. Ghent by Light
Even if you miss the famous Ghent Light Festival, the city still shines beautifully after dark. Many of Ghent’s historic buildings, canals, and monuments are illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere perfect for an evening stroll.
We followed the suggested Ghent light walk, which took us through parts of the city we hadn’t seen during the day. The reflections in the water and the glow of the historic façades made for some truly memorable views and photographs.
Moreover, walking the city by night gives you a different perspective, highlighting Ghent’s medieval architecture and vibrant city life. It’s also a relaxed way to explore, as traffic is lighter and the streets feel calmer.
Overall, Ghent by light is a family-friendly, enchanting experience that adds a magical touch to any visit, showing the city’s charm in a whole new way.
5. Eat Frites with Mayo
No trip to Ghent is complete without trying Belgian frites, and the city has plenty of spots to enjoy this classic treat. We visited De Frietketel, a popular student hangout known for its large portions and tasty fries.
Belgian fries are traditionally served with mayo, though you’ll find many other sauces available. We shared two small portions between the four of us, but even those were huge—perfect for a quick, tasty, and budget-friendly snack.
Moreover, Ghent is known as the vegetarian capital of Europe, so there are plenty of options for non-meat eaters too. Fries, waffles, and local sweets make it easy for families to enjoy delicious street food together.
Overall, trying frites with mayo is a fun, authentic, and easy way to experience Belgian cuisine while exploring the city with the family.
6. Discover the City History at Stadsmuseum Gent (STAM)
For a deeper understanding of Ghent, a visit to Stadsmuseum Gent (STAM) is a must. This museum offers a fascinating look at the history and development of the city, making it a perfect stop for families who want both fun and learning.
One of the highlights is the giant floor map of Ghent, where visitors can walk across and see the city’s layout in detail. It gives a great sense of scale and shows how the city has grown over the centuries.
The museum also features exhibits about the Ghent Altarpiece, one of Europe’s most famous artworks, as well as interactive areas where children can build city towers with Lego. This makes STAM a family-friendly experience, combining education, creativity, and hands-on fun.
Additionally, the museum provides context for other city attractions, helping you appreciate landmarks like Gravensteen Castle and St Bavo’s Cathedral even more.
Overall, STAM is an engaging way to explore Ghent’s rich history and culture, offering something enjoyable for both adults and children.
7. Enjoy Some Warmth at the Botanic Garden
If you’re visiting Ghent in cooler months, the University Botanic Garden is a perfect spot to enjoy some greenhouse warmth. While the outdoor gardens may be quiet in winter, the tropical and subtropical greenhouses are full of life, color, and warmth—making them a pleasant retreat from chilly weather.
The garden is also part of Citadelpark, so you can combine your visit with a scenic walk through the surrounding parkland. This is ideal for families who want a mix of nature, fresh air, and a relaxing pace while exploring the city.
Moreover, the garden offers opportunities to spot unusual plants and learn a little about different species, making it an educational and calming experience for children and adults alike.
Overall, the Botanic Garden is a hidden gem in Ghent, perfect for escaping the cold while enjoying beautiful greenery and a peaceful environment.
8. Eat Waffles
No trip to Belgium is complete without trying Belgian waffles, and Ghent is the perfect place to indulge. Street vendors across the city sell them fresh, often topped with chocolate, cream, or fruit, making them a sweet treat the whole family can enjoy.
We tried one covered in chocolate and cream—it was light, slightly chewy, and absolutely delicious. Waffles are affordable too, usually costing just a few euros, which makes them a budget-friendly snack while exploring the city.
Moreover, enjoying waffles is more than just eating—they’re part of the Belgian experience. Whether you grab one on the go or sit in a café to enjoy it slowly, it’s a fun way to taste local flavors and take a break during sightseeing.
Overall, trying Belgian waffles in Ghent is a must-do for families, combining sweet indulgence, local culture, and a little holiday treat for everyone.
9. Savour the View from St Michael’s Bridge
One of the most iconic sights in Ghent is the view from St Michael’s Bridge, often called the “Manhattan of the Middle Ages.” From here, you can see three of the city’s most famous towers in a row: the Belfry, Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, and Saint Nicholas’ Church.
The viewpoint is perfect for photographs and taking in the historic cityscape, with the canals and cobbled streets adding to the charm. It’s especially beautiful in the early morning or at sunset when the light reflects off the water.
Moreover, standing on the bridge gives a real sense of Ghent’s medieval heritage and how the city grew around its waterways. It’s a simple yet memorable experience for families, providing a chance to pause, enjoy the scenery, and appreciate the city’s unique atmosphere.
Overall, St Michael’s Bridge offers one of the best viewpoints in Ghent, making it a must-see stop during your family visit.
10. Wander the Streets Around Patershol
Patershol is one of Ghent’s most charming neighbourhoods, full of cobbled streets, historic houses, and quiet corners. It’s a great area for families to explore at a relaxed pace, away from the busier parts of the city.
We enjoyed wandering aimlessly through the narrow streets, spotting restored buildings and hidden courtyards. In the evenings, the area comes alive with restaurants and cafés, offering a taste of local cuisine in a cozy, atmospheric setting.
Moreover, Patershol captures the medieval character of Ghent while also showcasing its trendy, modern side. It’s perfect for strolling, taking photos, or simply soaking in the city’s history and charm.
Overall, wandering Patershol is a peaceful and picturesque activity, giving families a chance to enjoy the quieter, authentic side of Ghent.
11. See the Vineyard at St Peter’s Abbey
A unique stop in Ghent is the vineyard at St Peter’s Abbey, right in the city centre. Although the current vineyard was planted in the 1980s, it reflects a tradition that dates back to the 9th century, when monks cultivated grapes on the abbey grounds.
Walking through the vineyard is a peaceful experience, offering a break from the busy streets of Ghent. You can admire the neat rows of vines, enjoy the greenery, and even imagine what life was like for the monks who tended the vineyard centuries ago.
Moreover, the abbey grounds provide a lovely urban garden experience, combining history, nature, and a quiet atmosphere—perfect for families who want a slower-paced activity.
Overall, visiting the St Peter’s Abbey vineyard is a charming and unusual way to enjoy city greenery, history, and peaceful walking while exploring Ghent.
12. Graffiti Street, Off Hoogpoort
For a splash of modern urban art, head to Graffiti Street, a pedestrian alleyway just off Hoogpoort. This vibrant street is covered in graffiti and street art, offering a completely different perspective compared to Ghent’s historic buildings and medieval charm.
We found it especially fun for the teens, who enjoyed spotting colourful tags and taking photos. It’s also a short, easy walk from the city centre, making it a quick and interesting stop while exploring Ghent.
Moreover, Graffiti Street provides a glimpse into the city’s creative and youthful side, balancing the more traditional sights like castles and cathedrals. Even a brief stroll through this alley adds a modern, playful touch to your family visit.
Overall, Graffiti Street is a cool, quirky spot that contrasts beautifully with Ghent’s historic areas, making it a memorable stop for families looking for something different.
13. Ride a Tram
While Ghent’s city centre is very walkable, riding a tram can be a fun and novel experience, especially for families with children or teenagers. We hopped on a tram for a short journey to the railway station, and it felt like a little adventure in itself.
The tram allows you to see parts of the city that you might not notice on foot, giving a different perspective of Ghent’s streets, architecture, and daily life. It’s also an easy and convenient way to travel longer distances without taxis.
Moreover, taking a tram is a small but memorable way for children to feel like city explorers, enjoying the movement, the stops, and the views along the way.
Overall, riding a tram in Ghent is a fun, practical, and slightly novel experience, perfect for families wanting a break from walking while still exploring the city.
14. Try Little Noses (Cuberdons)
No visit to Ghent is complete without tasting the city’s famous cuberdons, also known as “little noses.” These cone-shaped sweets have a hard outer shell and soft, fruity filling, making them a unique treat for both kids and adults.
We bought ours from street vendors for just a few euros each. The flavours vary, usually fruity, and while they might be an acquired taste, trying them is part of the authentic Ghent experience.
Moreover, sampling cuberdons is a fun way to engage with local culture while exploring the city streets. It’s a quick snack that adds a little sweetness to your day and gives children a memorable treat.
Overall, trying cuberdons is a small but essential part of visiting Ghent, giving families a taste of local tradition and Belgian sweets.
15. Visit the Cathedrals and Churches
Ghent is home to some stunning cathedrals and churches, and even if you’re not religious, their history and architecture are worth exploring. Highlights include St Bavo’s Cathedral, where you can learn about the famous Ghent Altarpiece, and St Peter’s Church, both offering beautiful interiors and historic significance.
Walking around the churches also gives you a chance to admire medieval architecture, intricate stained glass, and detailed carvings. While younger children or teens may not always be interested in long tours, the sheer size and design of these buildings can still impress the whole family.
Moreover, visiting the churches helps place the rest of the city in context, showing how Ghent developed around its religious and civic centres over the centuries.
Overall, exploring Ghent’s cathedrals and churches is a fascinating activity that combines culture, history, and architecture, making it a meaningful stop for families discovering the city.
Ghent – The Verdict
We absolutely loved our family trip to Ghent and would highly recommend it as a short break destination. The city offers a wonderful mix of history, culture, and fun family activities, all within a compact and walkable area.
Over two full days, we explored historic landmarks like Gravensteen Castle and St Bavo’s Cathedral, wandered charming streets such as Patershol and Graslei, enjoyed local treats like frites, waffles, and cuberdons, and even experienced the city’s modern side on Graffiti Street and the tram.
Ghent isn’t as tourist-packed as Bruges, which makes it feel more relaxed and authentic. The student energy, canal views, and illuminated buildings give it a unique atmosphere that families can enjoy day or night.
Conclusion
Ghent is a perfect family-friendly city break in Belgium, offering a mix of history, culture, and fun activities. From climbing the Belfry and exploring Gravensteen Castle to tasting Belgian waffles, frites, and cuberdons, there’s something for everyone in the family. The city’s charming streets, canals, and neighbourhoods like Patershol and Graslei make it a joy to explore on foot, while attractions such as STAM museum and the Botanic Garden offer educational and interactive experiences.
Whether you want to enjoy medieval architecture, scenic viewpoints, or local cuisine, Ghent combines all of these in a compact, walkable city. Its vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere makes it ideal for families, couples, and first-time visitors, ensuring a memorable trip full of experiences that appeal to all ages.
FAQs
1. What is the best time to visit Ghent with your family?
The best time is from spring to early autumn, when the weather is mild, outdoor attractions are fully open, and walking around the city is most enjoyable.
2. Are these attractions suitable for children and teenagers?
Yes! Most attractions, including Gravensteen Castle, STAM museum, and the Belfry, are family-friendly. Street walks, boat tours, and food stops also appeal to all ages.
3. How do we get to Ghent from London?
You can take the Eurostar to Brussels, then a short 30-minute train ride to Gent-Sint-Pieters Station. The city is compact, so most attractions are accessible on foot.
4. Are the attractions free or ticketed?
Some areas like Graffiti Street and Patershol are free to explore. Ticketed attractions include Gravensteen Castle, STAM museum, and the Belfry, with affordable family rates.
5. Can we try local food as a family?
Absolutely! Ghent is perfect for food-loving families. Don’t miss frites with mayo, Belgian waffles, and cuberdons—all easy to enjoy while walking around the city.
6. How many days should we spend in Ghent?
Two full days allow you to see most highlights. Three days give extra time for museums, boat tours, and more relaxed exploration of neighbourhoods and parks.
7. Is Ghent suitable for walking with children?
Yes, the city centre is compact and pedestrian-friendly, with plenty of sights and stops along the way. Comfortable shoes are recommended for cobbled streets.
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