Ghent is a vibrant city full of culture, gastronomy, and must-see attractions, perfectly suited to students.
Whether looking for delicious restaurants, lively bars, or unforgettable activities, there’s always something to do, even on a budget.
This guide combines five must-sees that combine outings, great deals, and unique experiences to enjoy university life in this beautiful city fully.
Get ready to experience Ghent like never before! 🎉
TOP 5:
1. Belfort Tower
2. Overpoortstraat
3. The Castle of Counts
4. Dulle Griet
5. Boat Tour of the city
1. The Belfort of Ghent
The Belfort of Ghent, built in 1314, experienced a 20-year interruption before being crowned with a wooden spire in the 14th century, adorned with the iconic Ghent dragon 🐉, which served as a weather vane. In 1402, the Belfort became the guardian of the town’s privileges, secured in a secret safe. Its pediment recounts the Roman legend of Simon and his daughter in prison.
In 1771, the original wooden spire was replaced by a cast-iron structure in the neo-Gothic style.
Visitors can explore the Belfort using a free app, which guides them to highlights such as the original dragon whirligig 🐉 and the carillon of 53 bells, including the famous 6-tonne 'Klokke Roeland' 🔔. The museum showcases the history of the bells, their intricate mechanism ⚙️, and a documentary on their manufacture.
A lift whisks you to the top for a breathtaking view, but be prepared for a dizzying descent via a spiral staircase!
Necessary informations:
💶 Price :
- Student (19 to 25): 2,20€
⏰ Open hours:
- 10:00 am to 5:20 pm
📍Location :
- Belfort, Sint-Baafsplein 2, 9000 Gent
2. Overpoortstraat
Overpoort: The Beating Heart of Student Life in Ghent 🎉🍻
With its 35 cafés, Overpoort is the must-visit street for students in Ghent. 🍹🎶 Bars for drinking and dancing, chip shops, pitta snacks, and night shops follow one another, creating a festive atmosphere, especially on Thursday evenings, the key day for student parties. 🎈💃
More than 66,000 students visit Ghent every year to study and enjoy its lively nightlife. In addition to Overpoort, the Sint-Pietersnieuwstraat is a mix of restaurants 🍴, cafés, and university buildings, offering a balance between relaxation and study. ✨ It is an unmissable facet of the city! 🎓
Here are the most popular bars on this street 🍻:
- Overpoort Bowl: Overpoortstraat 38, 9000 GENT
- T'Kofschip: Overpoortstraat 96, 9000 GENT
- Luxx: Overpoortstraat 84, 9000 GENT
- Cafe Cuba: Overpoortstraat 74, 9000 GENT
📍Location :
3. The Castle of Counts
It’s impossible to visit Ghent without discovering the mysterious Castle of the Counts 🛡️, a medieval jewel steeped in history. This fortress, unique in Flanders with its intact defensive system, reflects the city’s turbulent political and social past.
Step into the chivalrous world of the 12ᵉ century as you explore the guardhouse, ramparts, keep stables, and the residence of the counts. A fascinating experience that will transport you to the heart of the Middle Ages! 🕰️
Immerse yourself in the chivalrous world of the 12ᵉ century as you explore the guardhouse, ramparts, keep, stables, and residence of the counts. A fascinating experience that transports you to the heart of the Middle Ages.
Would you like to discover the Castle of Counts differently?
The humorous audio guide 🎧, narrated by the famous Flemish comedian Wouter Deprez, brings the castle’s history to life with captivating anecdotes and a light-hearted touch. Even locals might learn something new! 🏙️
For hearing-impaired visitors, a video guide in Flemish or international sign language is available. A tablet with 18 videos, included in the admission price, will accompany you throughout your visit. A fun and accessible experience not to be missed! 📽️
Necessary informations:
💶 Price :
- Student (19 to 25): 8€
⏰ Open hours:
- 10:00 am to 6 pm (last admission at 4.40 pm)
📍Location :
- Sint-Veerleplein 11, 9000 Gent
4. The Dulle Griet
The Dulle Griet: a must-see in Ghent
Be sure to visit the Dulle Griet, an iconic bar with a unique charm that draws locals and tourists alike. 🎉
If you dare to try the famous MAX, a strong beer served in a 1.2-litre boot-shaped glass 🍺👢, get ready for an unusual tradition: the waiters will keep one of your shoes as a deposit! 👟
But why?
The MAX and its unusual tradition at the Dulle Griet:
The MAX glass, wildly popular with tourists, has been too popular at times, as it’s often "accidentally" taken home as a souvenir. To solve this, the Dulle Griet devised a clever (and fun!) solution: when you order this beer, you leave a shoe 👠 as a deposit.
Your shoe is placed in a hanging basket 🧺 high above the bar until you return the iconic glass.
This quirky tradition adds a touch of fun and character to your tasting experience, making the Dulle Griet a bar like no other! 🍻
Necessary informations:
⏰ Open hours:
- Monday: 4:30 pm to 01:00 am
- Tuesday - Saturday: 12:00 am to 01:00 am
- Sunday: 12.00 am to 7.30 pm
📍Location :
- Vrijdagmarkt 50, 9000 Gent
5. Take a boat tour
Discover Ghent in a Different Way: A Boat Trip Full of History and Charm 🚤✨
Want to discover Ghent from a unique angle?
Hop on a 40-50 minute boat trip departing from the magnificent Graslei, one of the city's most iconic landmarks. Sail along the peaceful waters of the Lys and Lieve rivers 🌊, all the way to Rabot, while soaking in the fascinating history of this charming Belgian city.
Whether the sun is shining ☀️ or rain🌧️ decides to join the party, it’s a magical experience you won’t forget!
The Secrets of the Graslei and Beyond 🔑:
What stories lie hidden behind the elegant facades of the historic houses on the Graslei? 🏠 Who lived there, and what were their lives like?
Your guide will unveil these mysteries, along with tales of the Castle of the Counts 🏰 and the bustling markets of yesteryear. Every corner of Ghent has a story to tell, and this boat trip is your key to discovering them. 🗝️
Ready to Embark on an Adventure? 🚤
Combining history and relaxation, this journey starts at the Graslei, right around the corner. So sit back, relax, and let us guide you through the hidden gems of Ghent. 🛶
Are you ready to set sail? 🌊
⚓ Here are a few links to boat trips:
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