Ghent is the perfect counterpoint to Bruges. It has just as much medieval grandeur, with the turreted Gravensteen castle of the counts of Flanders, three great towers in a row and the guild houses of the Graslei and Korenlei along the river, but it is also a big university city with real everyday life, bars and food. The masterpiece is the Ghent Altarpiece, the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb by Hubert and Jan van Eyck, in St Bavo’s Cathedral, which makes a natural pair with the Van Eycks in Bruges. Trains between the two cities are frequent and quick, so a day trip is easy. The best way to get your bearings is on the water. The Guided Boat Tour through Historical Ghent, sold on Tiqets, takes about forty minutes along the Leie and the old canals, past the quays, the castle and the medieval warehouses, with a live guide in English, French and Dutch.
How it works: take a train from Bruges station to Gent-Sint-Pieters, then a tram or a walk of about half an hour into the historic centre. Book the boat tour on Tiqets and board at the landing stage in the centre; a version with a Ghent beer included is also available. Tiqets showed same-day availability in early November, but winter departures may be fewer and the open water can be cold, so dress warmly.
What to expect: the boat tour covers the medieval heart in forty minutes, with the Graslei and Korenlei, the Gravensteen and the old meat hall from the water. Afterwards, walk to St Bavo’s Cathedral for the Ghent Altarpiece, which has its own ticket and a visitor centre, then climb the Belfry of Ghent or tour the Gravensteen. Ghent also has a Christmas market in December.
Making the most of it: arrive mid-morning, take the boat first, then lunch on the Graslei. Visit the Altarpiece and the castle in the afternoon and stay for the evening, when the illuminated towers and quays are at their best. It is the ideal day out if you have three days in Bruges, or a better choice than Bruges for a Monday when most Bruges museums are closed.
What to expect
The experience
A train day trip to Ghent built around a forty-minute guided boat tour, with the Altarpiece and the castle on foot.
Best time
A Monday, when most Bruges museums close, or any clear day with time to stay for the evening lights.
How long
A full day, including about forty minutes on the boat.
Tips
Take the boat first to get your bearings, and book the Ghent Altarpiece separately if it is on your list.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers with three days who want a second medieval city with more everyday buzz.
- Families
- The boat tour and the Gravensteen castle make it a strong family day out.
- Couples
- A boat ride, a long lunch on the Graslei and the lit quays at dusk.
- Pair with
- The Groeningemuseum in Bruges for the Van Eyck connection.
- Time needed
- A full day.
Good questions
How do I get from Bruges to Ghent?+
Trains run frequently from Bruges station to Gent-Sint-Pieters and the journey is short. From there a tram or a half-hour walk takes you into the historic centre.
How long is the Ghent boat tour?+
The guided boat tour sold on Tiqets lasts about forty minutes. It has a live guide in English, French and Dutch.
What should I see in Ghent in one day?+
Combine the boat tour with the Ghent Altarpiece in St Bavo’s Cathedral and the Gravensteen castle. Stay for the evening if you can, when the quays are lit.
Is Ghent better than Bruges?+
It is different rather than better: livelier and less polished, with a large student population. Many visitors enjoy seeing both on the same trip.
Is the Ghent Altarpiece included in the boat tour?+
No, the Altarpiece in St Bavo’s Cathedral needs its own ticket. The boat tour covers the city’s quays and waterways.
