When you think of Belgium, two cities probably come to mind—Brussels and Brugge.
However, Belgium’s most interesting and beautiful city is actually neither one of these two. The highlight of Belgium for any traveler to this small Northern European country is actually the charming city of Ghent.
Ghent is located in the Dutch-speaking region of Flanders in northern Belgium, just south of the country’s border with the Netherlands. It is a lively, university city that serves as a perfect mix of architectural beauty and cultural sights.
People that visit Ghent usually remark that the city looks like the setting of a fairy tale. This is because of the medieval architecture and cobblestone streets through which visitors walk, which makes you feel that you’ve jumped inside of a time machine.
One of Ghent’s most beautiful buildings is Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, an 89-meter tall Gothic cathedral. Visitors to the cathedral can climb up the stairs to the top of its bell tower for panoramic views of the city.
While Amsterdam might get all of the love in Europe for canals, Ghent’s status as a port city means that it has its own intricate network of waterways. Visitors can take a boat ride through the city’s canals to see a different perspective of Ghent’s beauty.
Be sure to sample some of the local delicacies, including Belgian beer and waffles while in Ghent. While it might not be the best-known destination, you’ll never forget your time in Ghent if you are lucky enough to visit.
