Gent-Sint-Pieters Railway Station is the primary railway station in Ghent. It is the fourth-busiest railway station in Belgium and the busiest in Flanders, serving approximately 17.65 million passengers annually. Operated by the National Railway Company of Belgium, the station has a rich history dating back to 1881, when it originated as a small stop on the Ghent–Ostend line. Initially, the main station in Ghent was the South railway station, established in 1837.

In preparation for the 1913 International Exposition held in Ghent, a new and grander Gent-Sint-Pieters station was constructed. Designed by architect Louis Cloquet, the station was completed in 1912, just before the World's Fair. The building showcases an eclectic architectural style, featuring a long corridor that runs through its length, granting access to various facilities. A distinctive feature of the station is its cross-form design, facilitated by a tunnel, designed by engineer P. Grondy, which connects the entrance hall to the twelve platforms. The original waiting rooms, once designated for second and third-class passengers, now function as a buffet and restaurant area.

Gent-Sint-Pieters was officially classified as a historic building in 1995, and the station underwent renovations starting in 1996, with the western wing's interior refurbishment completed in 1998. From 1998 until March 31, 2015, the station also hosted a daily Thalys high-speed rail service to Paris.

The station is decorated with murals and ceiling paintings depicting 13 Belgian cities, including Ostend, Mechelen, Oudenaarde, Ypres, Brussels, Antwerp, Bruges, and Courtrai, among others. These artistic elements were intended to provide visitors to the 1913 World’s Fair with a visual journey through Belgium's diverse cities, enhancing the station's cultural and historical significance.

Saint Nicholas Church is one of the celebrated "Three Towers of Ghent." Building was begun in the 13th century to replace an earlier Romanesque structure. The style of construction is Scheldt Gothic. This style called for the use of blue-gray stone taken from the area of Tournai. There is a single tower above the crossing and corner turrets.

The church has had a stormy existence. During the 16th century militant iconoclasts destroyed its religious images and artifacts. Come the French revolution, the church served as a stable for horses. By the 1700s numerous shops and small houses had been built clinging to the church's outer walls.

Extensive restoration carried out in the 19th century has rescued the church from a dilapidated ending. The Scheldt Gothic style tower is above the nave and transepts instead of the main entrance. As a result, light from the tower is permitted to illuminate the transept.

The organ of the church is one of the most impressive in the country. It was built by the famous French organ maker, Aristide Canaille-Coll. The instrument is a three-manual organ with 16 pipes in front. The inauguration concert was given by Louis James Lefebure-Wely in 1856.

The church is open every day. Admission is free.

The Korenmarkt, or Wheat Market is a large square in the center of Ghent's historic district. It is called Wheat Market for the prosperous wheat trade beginning in the 10th and 11th centuries. Grain would be brought up the river Leie to Graslei (Grass Quai) and KorenLei (Wheat Quai). It then could be sold in the Wheat Market.

The Wheat Market is connected to two of Ghent's most active commercial streets, Veldstraat and Kortemunt on a north-south line. Saint Michael's Bridge reaches over the river Leie to Saint Nicholas Church on the east side. On the west side is access to the waterfront and the Grass Quai.

The picturesque buildings around the square house bars, restaurants and terraces. Alongside Saint Nicholas church there are the pubs of Klein Turkijie (Little Turky). The square was once the scene of bankruptcy auctions. The term "Little Turky" is actually a corruption of the expression "ter keie gaan", which means "hit rock bottom."

Ghent was a center of the grain and cereal trade as early as the 5th century AD. Laid out along the shores of the river Leie, in the center of Ghent, were the two main quais of Ghent, Grass Quai and Wheat Quai. Grass Quai, on the right bank, was reserved for herbs and vegetables. On the opposite bank Wheat Quai received shipments of wheat and cereals.

Ships have been docking at the quais since the 11th century. Grass Quai and Wheat Quai are lined with medieval buildings restored and rebuilt. Behind many of the restored facades there are shops and offices dedicated to modern purposes but they look as they did in the golden age of Ghent.

The stepped gables of the old guild houses have watched over the city since the 13th century. The Wheat Measure House, where wheat was first weighed in 1527 is today an accessory store.

The banks of the river are lined with terraces and cafes and wonderful places to hang out. On the renovated facade of the Mariot Hotel at Wheat Quai, two gilded swans swim in opposite directions: left for women and right for drinks. One wonders what entertainments were happening in the 16th century.

Boat rides are a popular way to take in the historic sights along the river as they appeared so many years ago.

Tip:
Make sure to climb the steps of Sint-Michielsbrug (Saint Michael's Bridge), where Grass Quai and Wheat Quai can be viewed well with the canal. Another very nice viewpoint and photo spot is directly on Wheat Quai, looking in the direction of Grass Quai. From there you can see the building guild houses as well as some of the famous landmark buildings like the Belfry in the background. Take your time to look around, perhaps with binoculars.

The Great Butcher's Hall (Groot Vleeshuis) is a historic landmark in Ghent, originally serving as a covered market and guildhall for butchers. The first mention of the Hall appears in city documents from 1332-1333, referring to a smaller, wooden structure located on the Vismarkt, now known as the Vegetable Market (Groentenmarkt). By 1407, this older building had fallen into disrepair, prompting the butchers to relocate to a larger and more robust structure.

Between 1446 and 1448, a chapel with a meeting room was added to the southwestern corner of the building. To ensure a steady supply of fish, four canals were constructed beneath the hall, allowing flat fishing boats to access the market directly from the Lys River. The vaulted passages of these canals are still visible along the riverbank today.

In 1543, the Hall expanded to include 16 tripe houses, or shops, where viscera, intestinal fat, and other animal remains, as well as poultry, could be sold-items that were previously not permitted inside the main Hall. However, by the late 19th century, the Great Butcher's Hall became vacant after the butchers moved to a new meat house near the Vismijn on Sint-Veerleplein.

As part of preparations for the 1913 World's Fair, the Great Butcher's Hall and its tripe houses were restored to their pre-1744 condition under the direction of architect Van Hamme. The revamped building took on new roles, including serving as a market for fruits and vegetables, a Post and Telegraph office, a parking garage, and a partial fish trade.

Recognized for its unique architectural and historical value, the Great Butcher's Hall has been a protected monument since 1943. A major renovation in the late 1990s transformed the building into a promotion center for East Flemish regional products. Today, visitors can explore the Hall to find an array of Belgian specialties, such as chocolates and beer, along with various local souvenirs, celebrating the rich culinary and cultural heritage of the region.

Het Waterhuis Aan De Bierkant, often simply referred to as the Water House, is a beloved pub in Ghent, renowned for its impressive selection of local Belgian beers. With over 170 different kinds of beer, including 14 on draught and unique house brews like Klokke Roeland, it boasts one of the best beer selections in the city. The pub is strategically located on the waterfront along the Leie (Lys River), offering picturesque views of the city, especially enchanting at night.

This historic venue has evolved significantly over the centuries. Originally, it served as the city's main source of clean drinking water during the plague-ridden early 1500s. Over time, it transitioned from a water house to a brothel, then a barbershop, and finally an inn, before becoming the iconic "brown bar" it is today.

The pub's ambiance is cozy, with a small interior that exudes charm, complemented by a spacious terrace that becomes a popular spot in good weather. Visitors can enjoy traditional Breughel snacks and read newspapers, adding to the café's quaint and welcoming atmosphere. For larger groups, the Water House also offers a private room that accommodates up to 60 people.

The Water House is not just a place to enjoy an extensive beer menu; it's a slice of Ghent's history, attracting both tourists and locals with its riverside location, diverse beer offerings, and rich past. Whether you're there to taste a unique brew or simply soak in the historic ambiance, it promises a memorable experience in the heart of the city.

The Old Fish Market (Oude Vismijn) is one of the oldest and most historically significant marketplaces in Ghent. Originally located on the site of today's Vegetable Market Square (Groentenmarkt), the market moved in 1689 to its current location on Sint-Veerleplein, where it was marked by the construction of a distinctive Baroque-style gatehouse and permanent open-air stables.

The gatehouse, also built in 1689, is notable for its charming Baroque architecture and was originally adorned with statues of three sea gods. However, a fire in 1872 damaged these statues, and only the statue of Neptune, which sits atop the gatehouse façade, survived. The other two statues were replaced with figures representing the rivers Scheldt and Leie.

As part of the reconstruction efforts following the fire, a covered market hall was added to accommodate meat and vegetable trading, while the open square outside continued to serve the fish trade. In preparation for the 1913 World's Fair, the building received Neo-Gothic facades, adding to its architectural significance.

Throughout the 20th century, the Old Fish Market underwent various functional changes, serving as a tire center and a bowling hall at different times. Following a period of vacancy, the city administration launched a competition to repurpose the building, leading to its redevelopment as a catering business in 2010. Since March 2012, the Old Fish Market has served as the home of the Ghent Tourism Office, blending its rich historical legacy with modern utility.

The Kraanlei district, once known as Ajuinlei or "The Onion Place," has a rich history dating back to 1354. It earned its current name, Kraanlei or "Crane Place," when a great crane based on designs by Archimedes was installed to lift cargo from barges arriving at the quay. This crane was not alone; there were multiple cranes, although today only the name survives. Onions continued to be sold at this location until the 1940s, maintaining a link to its original moniker.

Situated along the riverfront, Kraanlei is a charming area lined with small trees. It features 19th-century water fountains with basins designed at varying heights to serve birds, humans, horses, and dogs. These fountains, relics of the Belle Epoque era, are now dry but still add to the district's historic ambiance. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls along the bank of Kraanlei or take in the scenic views from a pleasure boat on the river.

Patershol is one of Ghent’s oldest medieval quarters, bordering the River Leie. Its street layout has been preserved since the Middle Ages, offering a glimpse into the city's ancient past. Originally, the area served as a military zone for the Counts of Flanders. However, when the Counts relocated to Gravensteen in the 15th century, Patershol became home to lawyers, tradesmen, and a burgeoning middle class.

By the 19th century, as industry grew, workers moved into the suburbs, and Patershol declined into a ghetto. However, a revitalization began in the 1970s, restoring the neighborhood to its former charm. Today, Patershol is a vibrant area celebrated for its annual event, the Patersholfeesten, or "Little Ghent Feasts," held on August 15th. The festivities include performances on the Kaatsspelplein, children’s activities like singing and painting, and a lively flea market on Sunday, drawing locals and tourists alike to experience the unique cultural atmosphere of this historic quarter.

Every Friday there is a market in Vrijdagmarkt, Friday Market Square. Town markets have been held in the square since 1199. There is a statue of an armed man in the square. It is not the statue of a prince or a King or a mythological hero. It is a statue of a medieval businessman. He was also a politician and a bit of a dictator.

Jacob van Artevelde was a leader of the medieval guilds at a time when textiles were the life blood of Ghent industry. When the Count of Flanders, Louis I, abandoned Flanders in 1332, Van Artevelde became in effect, the ruler of Ghent. His administration was the first real option to feudalism. He was killed in the square by an envious business rival.

The square measures 100 X 100 meters. The buildings around the square are of different periods. The Tanners' Guild has a round tower and step gables. The Toreken Tower was used by the Cloth Guild. The Cloth Measurers House, dating from 1770 is on the north side of the square. The Art Nouveau "Our House" (1902) was home the the Socialist Party of Ghent.

The Friday Market Square has quite a few restaurants and cafes, most with outdoor seating. Markets are held on Fridays and Sundays. There is also a bird market on Monday.

Why You Should Visit:
Always a cool square to check out, with plenty of opportunities to take photos and soak up the atmosphere.
On Friday mornings, you can enjoy fresh produce, seafood, as well as clothes, collectibles and some gift items.

Nestled in a cave-like cellar near Sint-Jacobs square in the heart of Ghent, Trollekelder-literally translating to "Troll Cave"-offers a unique beer-drinking experience that’s anything but ordinary. Housed in a 15th-century basement that once served as a library until the 1980s, the space now invites guests into a whimsical, troll-themed setting, inspired by the first manager's wife’s love for mythological creatures. This quirky fairy-tale atmosphere, complete with troll figurines keeping watch, defines the bar’s charm.

Trollekelder is not your typical pub; it’s a brown beer bar renowned for its impressive selection of over 300 superior Belgian specialty beers, including Trappist and Abbey varieties. The star of the menu is the bar’s brew, Trollebier, a must-try for anyone exploring their vast collection of blond and dark beers. The ambiance is cozy and intimate, making it an ideal spot for a quiet chat over a meticulously chosen brew. Just a stone’s throw away from the bustling Gentse Feesten, Trollekelder is a fun, offbeat destination that calls out to all beer enthusiasts eager to enjoy a taste of local, exceptional Belgian brews.

There are three medieval towers rising over the old city of Ghent: Saint Bavo Cathedral, Saint Nicholas' Church and the 298 foot Belfry of Ghent. The building of the Belfry tower began in 1313, following the designs of master mason Jan van Haelst. Wars, pestilence and politics slowed progress but the tower was completed in 1380.

At the peak of the tower sits the latest version of the gilded Dragon of Ghent. The original dragon, installed in 1382, was acquired by Count Baldwin IX of Flanders and brought to Bruges. It later became a war trophy of Ghent. Meant to protect charters and documents stored in the tower, the Dragon became a symbol of the city's power.

The upper reaches of the tower have been rebuilt occasionally to allow for a growing number of bells. The campanile was finished in 1771 with a spire designed by architect Louis 't Kindt. A neo-Gothic spire was installed in 1851. It was replaced in 1913 by the stone spire of today.

Historically the belfry bells were used to announce the time, sound warnings and announce victories. The great alarm bell called "Roland" was installed in 1325. After he had subdued an uprising in Ghent, Holy Roman Emperor Charles V ordered Roland removed.

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow wrote:
"...I am Roland! I am Roland!
There is victory in the land!"

Why You Should Visit:
Climbing this tower on your visit to Ghent is imperative! Not excessively high, but still allows a very pretty view of the city and of the Cathedral right next to it.

Tip:
Stick around for the chiming of the bells on the hour. You can watch how the bell mechanism works from the inside or stand outside on the corridor and just listen. The admission forms part of the CityCard Gent so if you plan to visit multiple attractions, you might save a few euros by buying a CityCard.

In 1566 the Calvanist iconoclasts were on a rampage in the Netherlands. Raiding churches, they found a target rich environment. Stained glass windows, statues, artwork, everything had to go. Three days before they got to Saint Bavo's, artwork was hidden in the crypt and Saint Bavo's was mostly spared.

Saint Bavo's Cathedral or Saint-Baafskathedraal, is a 292 foot tall Catholic cathedral in Ghent. It is built on the site of the wooden Chapel of Saint John the Baptist, founded in 942 by Transmanus, Bishop of Tournai and Noyon. Construction of a new Romanesque church began there in 1150.

In the 14th through the 16th centuries ambitious Gothic renovations were added. On top of the lower Romanesque church a high Gothic choir and an enormous vault with tall windows was built. Around the choir is an ambulatory and 14 chapels. The 292 foot tower was erected in 1534. The church became a cathedral in 1569. A new nave was added by 1590.

Among the treasures that were saved from the iconoclasts of 1566 is the Famous Ghent Altarpiece, a painted polyptych by the van Eyck brothers Jan and Hubert in 1432.

Other artists represented in the cathedral are Peter Paul Rubens and Lucas de Heere. Frans Pourbus the Elder created 14 panels of The History of Saint Andrew (1572). There are three paintings by Caspar de Crayer, including The Beheading of John the Baptist. Eleven grisailles of the Old and New Testaments adorn the choir above the stalls.

The high choir is an awesome part of the interior. It has stalls for members of the Chapter of Saint-Bavon. The Baroque High Altar, installed from 1702 to 1782, is made with black, white and red flamed marble. In the nave is a rococo pulpit from 1745.

In the crypt are reliquaries and collections of liturgical ornaments and vessels. Virtual tours of the crypt, including the altarpiece, are available. There is a basic tour and an advanced tour of at least ninety minutes. Do not miss the painting of the Mystic Lamb.

Magelein Street (Mageleinstraat) is a charming and historic street in the heart of Ghent, located near the iconic Belfry and Saint Bavo Cathedral. This lively street is one of the oldest in Ghent and is known for its bustling atmosphere and a delightful selection of small food shops. As you stroll down Magelein Street, you'll be tempted by the shop windows filled with Belgian pastries, chocolates, cheeses, and a variety of freshly baked bread.

Its central location makes Magelein Street one of the busiest shopping streets in Ghent, as it connects with other vibrant shopping areas and main roads. Historically, the street was part of the route of the Kalandeberg, running from Saint Baafsplein to the house of Jacob Van Artevelde at Kalandeberg no. 7. The origin of the street's name is debated; some believe it could be linked to the flower or spice marjoram, while others suggest it may be named after a noble lord, "Major Leyne," who supposedly lived there in 1680.

However, historian Professor Victor Fris suggests the name comes from the Magelein (or Machelins) family, prominent in Saint Bavo's Abbey area in the late twelfth century. They owned significant properties in the Kuip of Ghent and were involved in local politics and feuds, notably with the Borluut family. A Machelins' son served as alderman of the Keure in 1330 and of Gedeele in 1333.

Magelein Street also had a historical alley known as the Ganxken, located across from Bennesteeg. This alleyway led to a theatre that opened onto the courtyard of the hostel row "Het Roose Cransken" on Saint Jansstraat (now Emile Braunplein). The theatre, known as "Het Ganxken," was mentioned as early as 1666 and served various entertainment purposes from 1715 until 1737, including plays, singing performances, and later as a dance hall into the early 19th century. Magelein Street's rich history and vibrant present make it a fascinating part of Ghent's cultural tapestry.

Veld Street (Veldstraat), located in the heart of Ghent, is the city's main shopping street and one of the most significant retail destinations in the country, often compared to other famous Belgian shopping streets like Brussels' Nieuwstraat and Antwerp's Meir. Stretching approximately 400 meters, Veld Street is a bustling hub of commerce and history.

Veld Street dates back to 1164 as Platea de Velde, originally a rural path through farmland outside Ghent. By the 12th and 13th centuries, it urbanized and became one of the city's first roads, attracting wealthy citizens who built stone houses in the 14th century. The street's architecture evolved from Romanesque stone and stepped gables, though little remains today. In the 18th and 19th centuries, it became known for large hotels, hosting notable guests like Louis XVIII, Wellington, and the American delegation at the signing of the Treaty of Ghent.

Veld Street's evolution into a major shopping street began in earnest at the end of the 19th century, marked by the widening of the street and the construction of new buildings, especially on the side adjacent to the Korenmarkt. This transformation established it as the premier retail destination in Ghent. Today, Veld Street's character is defined by its 19th-century architecture, though many of these historical buildings have been altered at street level to accommodate retail spaces that contrast with their upper façades.

The modern-day Veld Street is dominated by branches of large retail chains, such as H&M, Zara, Massimo Dutti, and Esprit. Over the years, the presence of independent stores has dwindled, with many family-run businesses closing their doors.