Living in Ghent means being surrounded by a city that feels both historic and refreshingly alive. Ghent is one of those places where medieval towers, lively terraces, student bars and cultural events blend together naturally. It’s compact, easy to explore on foot or by bike, and full of atmosphere at every hour of the day.
Unlike some European cities that feel like open-air museums, Ghent is very much a living city. Locals, students, travelers and creatives all share the same streets, cafés and canals. That mix is what gives Ghent its unique energy.
A Historic City You Can Actually Live In
Ghent’s skyline immediately tells its story. The medieval Gravensteen rises dramatically in the city center, reminding visitors that this was once one of the most powerful cities in Europe. Just a short walk away, the Saint Bavo’s Cathedral dominates the area with its Gothic architecture and cultural importance.
One of the most iconic places in the city is the stretch along the river Lys at Graslei and Korenlei. During the day, it’s a beautiful spot for a walk or a canal boat ride. In the evening, people gather on the steps by the water with a drink, watching the lights reflect on the historic guild houses. It’s one of those places where you don’t need a plan — just sit down and enjoy the moment.
Food in Ghent: From Flemish Classics to Modern Cuisine
Ghent has built a strong reputation as a food city, and that reputation is well deserved. Traditional Belgian dishes like waterzooi or Gentse stoverij can still be found in cozy local restaurants, especially in the charming Patershol district. At the same time, Ghent has a thriving modern food scene with creative chefs, seasonal menus and a strong focus on quality ingredients.
The city is also known for being extremely vegetarian- and vegan-friendly, with many restaurants offering plant-based versions of classic dishes or fully vegetarian menus. Whether you’re looking for fine dining, a relaxed brasserie, street food or a long lunch with friends, Ghent offers plenty of choice without ever feeling overwhelming.
Pubs, Bars and Nightlife with Character
Ghent’s nightlife is lively but relaxed, much like the city itself. Traditional pubs serving Belgian beers sit next to modern cocktail bars and student cafés. Places like Dulle Griet or Het Waterhuis aan de Bierkant are perfect for discovering local beers, while jazz clubs such as Hot Club Gent add a cultural touch to the evening.
What makes going out in Ghent special is that everything is close together. You can easily move from one place to another on foot, making spontaneous nights out part of everyday life rather than something that needs planning.
Gentse Feesten: Ghent at Its Absolute Best
Every July, Ghent transforms completely during the Gentse Feesten, one of the largest cultural festivals in Europe. For around ten days, the city center becomes a massive open-air event with concerts, street performances, comedy, theatre, food stalls and pop-up bars.
What makes the Gentse Feesten special is that it doesn’t feel like a single festival site. Instead, the entire city becomes the festival. You might stumble upon a jazz concert in a small square, a DJ set near the canals, or street theatre around the corner from a historic church. Locals and visitors mix effortlessly, and the atmosphere stays friendly and welcoming, even late into the night.
If you’re planning a visit to Ghent, July is an incredible time to experience the city’s energy — just be sure to book accommodation well in advance.
Why Ghent Is Worth Visiting
Ghent offers the charm of a historic city without the downsides of mass tourism. It’s cultural without being pretentious, lively without being chaotic, and compact without feeling small. Whether you’re interested in architecture, food, nightlife or festivals, Ghent delivers in a way that feels authentic and relaxed.
For travelers who enjoy cities with character, good food, great beer and a strong local vibe, Ghent is a destination that quietly impresses — and often makes people want to come back.
If you’d like to explore Ghent at your own pace, WanderBot can help you build a personalized itinerary, whether you’re visiting for a weekend, a festival week in July, or a longer stay in Belgium.
