Ghent, Belgium
A beautiful small town in the northwest part of Belgium. Not only is it known for its remarkable history, the Vrijdagmarkt aka “Friday Market,” is known as being the center of life in this medieval city. Large public squares and marketplaces give you plenty of opportunity to buy fun souvenirs, clothes, or gifts for loved ones. Only an hour train ride from Brussels and a short 45 minutes from Bruges. Visiting Ghent is the hidden gem you want to add to you’re itinerary.
Why Ghent?
It was our second day in Belgium so we wanted to make the most of it. A few locals had told us how beautiful Belgium was outside of the big city, with their favorite being Ghent, they called it, “the little slice of heaven.” My sister & I always try to see the most we can within the short amount of time we have! Ghent seemed to be the best option for our day.
How’d we get there?
I looked to see how far away it was from our hotel with public transportation and come to find out it was only going to take an hour and a half in total to get there. We ended up taking the 950am train from Brussels-Midi to Gent- Sint- Pieters. The actual train ride was only 28 minutes, super quick and efficient. Depending on where you are staying at in Brussels will depend on how long it will take you in total.
Local Coffeeshop?
You don’t have to tell me twice me to find a good local coffee shop. NANA Rescued Bananas Café is the definition of CUTE. In Belgium, they are extremely eco-friendly. I think its wonderful how much effort they put into protecting our environment. The owner of NANA Rescued Bananas Café not only provided us with reusable cups to use on our entire trip but explained to us as to why they are using the cups and how much it is helping. She made us feel right at home and most importantly brewed us some outstanding coffee. Make sure to add NANA’s to your list. I will attach the shops Instagram right below. (:
What is the Gravensteen Castle?
If there is anything you have to make sure to see during your time in Ghent it is THE Gravensteen Castle. A Medieval Castle located on the Lieve Canal right in the center of town. The castle was constructed in 1180 and was the residents to the Counts of Flanders until 1353. The Count of Flanders was the ruler at the time. Flanders meaning the Northern part of Belgium which is home to Brussels, Ghent, Bruges, Antwerp, etc. The Gravensteen Castle was later repurposed for other uses such as a court, prison and even a cotton factory at one time. For me, its stepping in the castle and embracing all the history that has occurred. They have options with guided tours, whether it be audio or not. There is a small entrance fee; free for kids 0-12, 2 euros for those from 12- 18 years of age and then 12 euros for everyone over 18. A nice green area is located on the east side of the castle for you to relax and cool down from the warm summer heat!
Saint Bavo’s Cathedral
Also known as the Sint-Baafs Cathedral is a Catholic Church in the center of Ghent. It is 89 meters (292 ft) tall and has been a house of prayer for over 1,000 years. It is free to enter for all ages and is open everyday from 8:30am-5pm. Sunday services are held, everyone is welcome. Located in the middle of a very very active square, with plenty of restaurants and other sights to see within close vicinity. While you are inside, you will notice how quiet and peaceful it is, this was one of the only times throughout the trip where I felt at peace with myself.
Not only does Ghent have the sights I mentioned above.. but it is a very easy to get around! You could walk around almost the entire city and if you decided you wanted to branch out of the city center, bicycle rentals are available! Ghent also had the first souvenir shop I ran across in Belgium, as well as plenty of other fun shops! Whether you choose to spend a day here or a few, the small town feels will make you feel right at home.
Tata for now,
XOXO Tay
