Belgium is a small country, but brimming with European charm and diversity. You can comfortably visit several cities in just a few days so it’s perfect for a short break.
Since I’d already been to Brussels, I focused my attention on Ghent, Bruges and Antwerp. A journey through these cities unveils a captivating tapestry of medieval architecture, surreal artistry, and a fascinating clash of old-world charm and modern delights.
Why should you stay in Ghent?
My friends and I looked at a map and noticed that Ghent was positioned between Bruges and Antwerp so it made perfect sense to use Ghent as a base from where to explore.
Before finally choosing Ghent, we still weren’t 100% sure it was the right decision. We were only in Belgium for 4 nights and debated whether or not to spent two nights in Ghent and two nights in either Bruges or Antwerp.
We thought about staying in Bruges because it’s often seen as the star attraction of Belgium. However, we went with Ghent on the basis of its location and that it appeared the least touristy of the three places.
Was Ghent the right decision?
I couldn’t be happier with our decision to stay in Ghent. It was more beautiful than I imagined. We unanimously loved it. So the short answer it yes, however, there are a few things that you should consider.
How many days to you have to play around with?
If you have more time, then I’d definitely distribute your time between the three cities.
Ghent was perfect for a 4-night stay, particularly since two of those days were spent visiting Bruges and Antwerp. However, after discovering that Antwerp is bigger than we expected, I probably would have spent a night in Antwerp. A day-trip didn’t really seem to be enough, it’s one of those cities that needs time to get to know.
Using one base also meant that we didn’t need to go through the hassle of moving our luggage around and searching for more accommodation. Bruges is only a 35-minute train journey away from Ghent, and Antwerp is 50 minutes away by train. A lot of people travel longer than that on a daily basis just to get to work!
Furthermore, there are several train stations in Ghent so it’s easy to get to where you want to go. Our accommodation was located centrally, the closest station for us to walk to was Ghent Dampoort Station, taking about 15-minutes.
You can book your train tickets online via the Trainline.
Do you have more than 3 or 4 days?
If you have more time, or simply want want to mix things up a bit, I suggest staying in Ghent as well as either Bruges or Antwerp for a night or two. If you’re looking for nightlife, then Antwerp might be the one for you. However, if you’re looking for something more romantic, then Bruges will probably be more your cup of tea. Best case scenario, stay in all three!
Exploring Ghent
Impressions of Ghent
I absolutely loved Ghent! It’s topped the list of my favourite Belgian cities. Brimming with Flemish charm, similar to Bruges but with less tourists.
It offers a fabulous blend of old and new to explore. A city where you can marvel at its historic medieval centre while relaxing in hipster cafes or browsing through fancy design shops. Like every great city, Ghent has a strong supply of museums that aren’t just there for a rainy day.
Things to do in Ghent
Gravensteen Castle: You can’t miss this medieval Castle located slap-bang in the middle of the city. It boasts battlements, turrets, winding staircases of stone and even an intact moat. Take in the sights from outside or take a tour inside for ten euros.
Saint Michael’s Bridge: The Saint Michael’s Bridge connects two sides of Ghent and it is the only place in the city you can see Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, Saint Nicholas’ Church, and the Belfry Tower at the same time. It’s a picture-perfect location!
Saint Nicholas’ Church: The medieval centre of Ghent features a number of churches with incredibly ornate architecture but St Nicholas’s Church is arguably the most impressive. With its imposing Gothic appearance, you won’t miss it, and it’s free to enter.
Panoramic view: Climb to the top of the Belfry Tower (eight Euro) for an epic view of the city.
Museums: Ghent has an abundance of museums but my favourites were S.M.A.K and Museum voor Schone Kunsten. These two art museums are located next to each other in Citadel Park. Graffiti Street: Walk through this narrow alleyway to see walls covered in graffiti and if you are feeling inspired, you can even buy a can of spray paint and add your own creation to the wall.
Canal Cruise: Explore beautiful Ghent from the water on a canal cruise. You can choose a standard 40-minute cruise or one that also includes snacks and an alcoholic beverage.
For more pre-bookable tours in Ghent, check out the ones below:
Exploring Bruges
Impressions of Bruges
I only had a day in Bruges but found it really charming with a stunning supply of fanciful building facades and cobblestone streets. When it comes to photogenic cities, Bruges probably wins the race.
However, it’s smaller than Ghent and definitely feels more touristy, which is another reason why I think Ghent provides a better base.
I haven’t read into this, but I reckon the city’s popularity also has something to do with In Bruges, the hugely-successful 2008 black comedy written by Martin McDonagh and starring Colin Farrell.
Things to do in Bruges
Rozenhoedkaai: The view from this bridge is one of the most photographed spots in Belgium (picture above). With its canals and classic buildings it really is the quintessential olde-worldy Belgium we all think of.
Belfry Tower: I really wanted to head up to the Belfry after seeing it featured in Martin McDonagh film but it was super busy (it was height of the season in summer). However, if you’re travelling out of season, don’t missed the chance to go up this medieval clock tower for panoramic views of the city and Grote Markt.
The Market Square: Also known as Grote Markt. A large square in the centre of Bruges where people flock to admire the grand architecture and festivities. Outlined by multicoloured buildings and filled with carnival games and booths, this square is truly the heart of Bruges.
Canal Tour: Bruges is often called the Venice of the North, as canals run through the whole city. Learn some history and get a great view of the neighbourhoods from the water.
Museums: There are a number of quirky museums in Bruges. Learn how chocolate is made at Choco-Story (book ticket here), taste and find out about Belgian beer at the beer museum, or indulge in traditional frites at the museum of fries (book ticket here).
For more pre-bookable tours in Bruges, check out the ones below:
Exploring Antwerp
Impressions of Antwerp
I really want to say I loved Antwerp, but I can’t say I enjoyed it as much as Ghent of Bruges. However, I think this is mainly because I simply didn’t have enough time to get to know it like I did with Ghent. Several of my friends have raved about it, so I think it’s more of a me thing. If I had managed to see more exhibitions and checked out more architecture, I’m sure my feelings would be different.
There are probably a few reasons why I wasn’t instantly won over by Antwerp. Firstly, it’s bigger and busier than Ghent so it doesn’t feel as relaxing.
Also, where Ghent is known for canals and castles; Antwerp is known for fashion stores and diamonds. And whilst I’d love a diamond (or two), my bank balance ensures I won’t be owning any anytime soon. Alas!
However, Antwerp triumphs with her museums. She has plenty of them, particularly when it comes to art.
Inside Museum Mayer van den Bergh
Things to do in Antwerp
Cathedral of our Lady: Known locally as Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal, it’s the city’s tallest building, towering at 123 meters, and is the largest Gothic structure in the Low Countries. It took 169 years (1352-1521) of labour to finish and it is listed as one of the World’s Heritage Sites! Inside, you will see paintings of Antwerp’s beloved painter, Rubens, and they are ‘The Raising of the Cross’, ‘Assumption of the Virgin Mary’ and ‘The Descent from the Cross’ .
Meir: This is the main shopping street in the city and the most expensive in the country. The most famous place on the this street is the De Stadsfeestzaal (City’s Party Hall). It contains about 40 luxurious shops, and since opening in 2007 is considered one the most beautiful shopping centre in Belgium.
Grote Markt: Belgium has some of the best Market Squares in Europe. As you probably expect, you will find a large statue surrounded by an impressive array of guild houses.
Rubenshuis: The former home and studio turned museum of Antwerp’s greatest and most famous Baroque painter, Peter Paul Rubens. You will see here a courtyard garden, Ruben’s workshops, collections, and more.
Museum Mayer van den Bergh: I love Pieter Bruegel the Elder, and this was the first museum in the world to house a single collection of the painter’s work. Today, it also contains works from the Gothic and Renaissance periods not only from Belgium but also from the Netherlands.
Museum aan de Stroom (MAS) museum – Finally if you’re looking for museums outside of art, head to MAS. The museum has an interesting collection of objects that narrates the history and culture of Antwerp. Finally, if you don’t have time to head inside (unfortunately like me), I still recommend going to check out the building designed by the Dutch architectural firm Neutelings Riedijk Architects.
For pre-bookable tours in Antwerp, click on the tours below:
Looking for more European train journeys?
Travelling by train has to be my favourite mode of transport. You can just sit back and watch the world go by. It’s also usually much less stressful than hiring car abroad, or catching a plane, and of course, much more environmentally friendly.
If you’re looking for more rail journey options, take a look at these trips I’ve taken by train below:
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