Ghent

Ghent combines a dramatic medieval skyline with the energy of a university and cultural city. The towers of Saint Nicholas' Church, the belfry and Saint Bavo's Cathedral rise above Graslei and Korenlei, while the stone Gravensteen castle anchors a network of canals and old trading streets.

Inside Saint Bavo's Cathedral, the Ghent Altarpiece is the artistic centrepiece and benefits from advance booking. Design museums, contemporary art, street art and converted industrial buildings show that the city is more than its historic façades. Evenings around the illuminated quays feel lived-in rather than staged. Show more

The centre is compact enough to walk, with trams for the station and farther districts. Allow two days for the main monuments, museums and time beside the water. Boat tours and some attractions are seasonal; cyclists and pedestrians share many spaces, and popular timed visits should be reserved before busy weekends.