Ghent: A Family-Friendly Adventure in Belgium
Just a short 90-minute drive from Calais, Ghent, Belgium, is a city brimming with storybook charm and rich history, offering the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation for families. Its medieval architecture, cobblestone streets, and picturesque canals create an atmosphere straight out of a fairy tale. Whether you’re exploring the city by foot, boat, or bike, Ghent provides a warm and welcoming environment that will capture the hearts of both children and adults alike.
A City Built for Exploration
Ghent is made for wandering, and much of its beauty lies in its walkability. The city’s compact size makes it easy to explore on foot, allowing you to discover its hidden gems at every turn. But for those who want to add a bit more excitement to their adventure, taking a boat tour through Ghent’s maze of canals is a must. There’s something magical about seeing the city from the water, and kids will love the novelty of floating past centuries-old buildings.
And when it comes to food, Ghent has you covered. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional Belgian waffles, hearty local fare, or indulgent sweets, there’s no shortage of kid-friendly options that will satisfy the entire family.
Top Family Activities in Ghent
Castle of the Counts
(Gravensteen Castle)
One of Ghent’s most iconic landmarks, Gravensteen Castle, transports visitors back in time to the days of knights and royalty. Located right in the heart of the city, this medieval fortress is a must-visit for families. Kids will love crossing the drawbridge and meeting the knight at the entrance, who sets the tone for an exciting adventure. You can opt for a private tour or explore at your own pace. Highlights include the fascinating torture chamber exhibit, a collection of medieval armor, and the castle walls, which offer stunning views of the city and its canals.
Ghent’s Street Art: A Concrete Canvas
For older children and teens, Ghent’s vibrant street art scene offers a creative way to explore the city. The graffiti and murals scattered throughout the city add a modern twist to Ghent’s medieval charm. The city even offers a “concrete canvas tour,” perfect for art lovers or those looking to discover a different side of Ghent. Grab a free map from the Tourist Office (St. Veerleplein, Oude Vismijn) and follow the trail by bike (8.7 miles) or on foot (4.7 miles). Ghent’s Graffiti Alley, a constantly evolving art space, is a must-see spot along the way.
Explore Ghent by Boat
For a unique perspective of Ghent, hop on a boat tour from Graslei, Korenlei, or Kraanlei. These guided tours offer a tranquil and informative journey through the city’s scenic canals, with captivating views of the medieval architecture that lines the water’s edge. For families who want to get a bit more hands-on, canoe rentals are also available for a more active exploration of Ghent’s waterways.
Food That Kids Will Love
No trip to Ghent is complete without indulging in its local culinary offerings, many of which are kid-approved.
Belgian Waffles: A must-try for any family, these waffles are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, served with everything from whipped cream to fresh berries.
Spaghetti at Kastart, Onderbergen: A family favorite, though it can get busy at lunchtime, Kastart serves up delicious spaghetti that’s sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
Balls ‘n Glory, Jacobijnenstraat: Known for its mouth-watering meatballs filled with a liquid core (which changes daily), this spot offers traditional Belgian comfort food that kids will love. The meatballs are served with either ‘stoemp’ (mashed potatoes with veggies) or a fresh salad. Be sure to try their refreshing homemade lemonade!
For a quintessential Belgian experience, be sure to grab some fries from a traditional ‘frietkot’ (vendor cart). Two of the best spots in town are the tiny stall next to the meathouse at Groentenmarkt and the old stand at Vrijdagmarkt. Enjoy your fries with mayonnaise, and for the adults, add a frikandel speciaal—a savory sausage that’s a local favorite.
Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth
No family trip would be complete without a few sweet treats along the way.
Ghent Neuzekes: These famous “purple nose” sweets are a cone-shaped candy filled with a tangy berry-flavored gel. You can find them at the Groentenmarkt, and they’re a hit with both kids and adults.
Temmerman Candy Shop (Kraanlei 79): A tiny, traditional candy shop in a charming old house, Temmerman offers an array of authentic Ghentian and Belgian candies. The shop itself is a delightful visit and gives you a taste of local history.
Ice Cream at Damass, Korenmarkt: Cool off with a scoop of ice cream from Damass. Offering a wide variety of flavors, it’s the perfect treat for kids as they take in the sights of the city.
Final Thoughts: A Family-Friendly City with Endless Charm
Ghent offers the perfect mix of history, culture, and fun for families. Its storybook architecture, canal-filled streets, and welcoming atmosphere make it an ideal destination for a family getaway. Whether your kids are climbing the castle walls at Gravensteen, exploring the city’s vibrant street art, or enjoying a cone of Belgian ice cream, Ghent has something for every member of the family to enjoy. And with its close proximity to the UK, it’s a convenient and charming European escape.
Family Friendly Accommodation
- Hotel Onderbergen
- Ghent Marriott Hotel
- Sandton Grand Hotel Reylof
- Harmony
- NH Gent Belfort
- Aparthotel Castlenou
- Hotel Gravensteen
- Ibis Gent Centrum Kathedraal
- Novotel Gent Centrum
- Hotel Orion
- Monasterium PoortAckere
- Flandria Centrum
Feature image – View from water on front of authentic houses, Ghent (c)Joost Joossen
More from Belgium
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