Graslei and Korenlei are the two quays that face each other across the River Lys, and together they are the postcard view of Ghent. Ships have docked here since the eleventh century, and the harbour that grew up around the old corn trade left behind a row of tall, gabled guild houses that glow at sunset. On the Graslei side you can see the stepped gable of the old corn store and the Guild House of the Free Sailors, while the Korenlei side holds the house of De Swaene with its gilded swans. The quays are free to visit at any hour, and they are best enjoyed slowly: sit with your feet over the water, buy a snack, watch the boats and see the facades change colour in the evening. The Grasbrug, a small bridge near the Korenmarkt, is the favourite place to take photographs.
The two quays are the old harbour of medieval Ghent, where grain from the countryside was unloaded, measured and stored, and the wealth of that trade built the guild houses you see today. The corn measurer's house and the old corn store, known as the spijker, are among the oldest buildings on the Graslei, and a restored guild house of the Free Sailors shows the pride of the boatmen's guild. Across the water, the Korenlei is quieter and offers the classic view back toward the Graslei and the towers behind it.
There is no ticket and no schedule, which makes the quays a flexible stop between museums and meals. Walk both sides in either order, cross at the Grasbrug or the Sint-Michielsbrug for a different angle, and finish with a drink at a terrace. In winter the quays are cold and the terraces thinner, but the light on a clear afternoon is lovely and the crowds are small. In the evening the facades are lit and the reflections on the water are at their best.
The quays sit inside the low emission zone, so travellers who arrive by car should check whether their vehicle is allowed, and in practice it is easier to arrive on foot or by tram from the station. The area has easy access for most visitors, though the cobbles can be uneven.
The canal boat tours leave from here, the castle is a short walk away, and the Belfry and the cathedral are close, so this is the natural starting point for any walk around the old centre. The site on the Ghent tourism pages explains the history and also lists seasonal events.
What to expect
The experience
A free, self-guided stroll along both quays, with cafes, benches and boat departures.
Best time
Late afternoon into dusk, when the guild houses glow and the lights come on.
How long
Half an hour to walk it, longer if you stop for a drink.
Tips
Cross the Grasbrug for the classic photo, wear shoes for the cobbles and check whether you are allowed to drive in the low emission zone.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Photographers and anyone who wants the signature view of Ghent.
- Families
- Open space beside the water, with boats to watch and plenty of snacks.
- Couples
- A sunset stroll and a drink on a terrace, with the facades lit behind you.
- Pair with
- A canal boat tour, Gravensteen and the Belfry.
- Time needed
- About an hour including a stop.
Good questions
Is it free to visit Graslei and Korenlei?+
Yes, the quays are public and open at any hour. You only pay if you stop at a cafe or take a boat tour.
What is the best viewpoint?+
The small Grasbrug bridge near the Korenmarkt gives the classic view of the guild houses and the moored boats. Sunset and evening light are the favourites.
Can I drive there?+
The quays are inside the low emission zone, so you should check whether your car is allowed before you drive in. Walking or taking the tram from the station is easier.
How long do I need?+
Thirty minutes is enough to walk both quays. Allow an hour or more if you want to sit and watch the boats or take a cruise.
Is it worth visiting in winter?+
Yes, the crowds are small and the light is beautiful on clear days, though the terraces are quieter. Bring a warm coat and gloves.
