Thought Paris was beautiful? Wait until you've explored Ghent, Belgium!!
Friends! I've found a gem! Ghent (Ghent), this under-the-radar medieval city in Belgium, is the ultimate European city walk! Canals reflect Gothic spires, castles hide ancient passageways, and even the tram tracks seem like threads through time! After a full day of exploring, I've compiled the ultimate itinerary. Every photo you take will look like a scene from "Game of Thrones"!
Must-See Medieval Checklist: The "Big Three" Church Tour
- St. Bavo Cathedral: Home to the mysterious 15th-century painting, "The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb." Sunlight streams through stained-glass windows onto stone carvings, making even breathing feel sacred! Don't miss the Roman ruins in the basement.
- St. Nicholas' Church: The blue-gray stone facade is unique! Gothic spires pierce the sky, and the side door is filled with detailed carvings of biblical stories.
- Ghent Belfry: Climb 91 meters for a panoramic city view! Red brick roofs and canals intertwine like a medieval chessboard. Take the elevator to save your legs (the €3 entry fee is a steal).
A Day Trip Through the Count's Dark Castle
- Gravensteen (Castle of the Counts): Step into one of Europe's best-preserved medieval castles. The torture chamber and armory are eerily captivating. The panoramic canal view from the top is breathtaking! I recommend wearing a long, vintage dress to capture cinematic shots on the stairwells.
Romance on the "Venice" of the Canals
- Graslei (Grass Quay): Belgium's most beautiful scenery! Medieval guildhalls are reflected in the water. At dusk, the entire river surface is gilded. Take a €6 boat tour and listen to the captain recount the glorious history of the fish market.
- St. Michael's Bridge: A stone bridge with pointed church spires on both banks. Crouch low in the center of the bridge for the perfect photo op – instant medieval postcard!
Ghent's Culinary Delights
- "Hell's Kitchen"-worthy cuisine:
- De Gekroonde Hoofden: A medieval cellar restaurant! Order the mussels in white wine sauce with Belgian fries and garlic aioli. Around €20 per person for a satisfying meal.
- 't Klokhuys: A local favorite for ribs. The sweet and spicy honey glaze is addictive – you'll want to lick the bones clean!
- Dark Dessert: Visit Chocolaterie Van Hoorebeke next to St. Bavo Cathedral and try the "medieval herb chocolate." Bittersweet, like swallowing the entire Renaissance!
Friends, Ghent is Europe's hidden treasure!!