Ghent, a beautiful city located in the Flemish region of Belgium, boasts stunning architecture, winding canals, and a rich cultural history. For visitors to the city, there are several spots that offer breathtaking views of Ghent’s charming landscape. In this blog post, we will explore the best views of Ghent and where to find them.
The Belfry
The Belfry is a medieval tower that dates back to the 14th century and is one of Ghent’s most iconic landmarks. Visitors can climb the 91-meter tower for stunning panoramic views of the city’s historic center. From the top, visitors can see the beautiful spires of Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, the winding canals, and the colorful buildings that make up Ghent’s charming landscape. The climb to the top is not for the faint-hearted, with steep staircases and narrow passages, but the views are worth the effort.
The Graslei and Korenlei
The Graslei and Korenlei are two quays located along the river Leie and offer some of the best views of Ghent’s medieval architecture. The quays are lined with colorful buildings, many of which date back to the Middle Ages. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the quays and admire the stunning views of the river and the historic buildings that line its banks. The best time to visit is in the late afternoon, as the setting sun casts a warm glow over the buildings, creating a magical atmosphere.
The Saint Michael’s Bridge
The Saint Michael’s Bridge is one of the best spots in Ghent to take in the city’s stunning skyline. The bridge spans the river Leie and offers stunning views of the city’s historic center, including the towers of Saint Bavo’s Cathedral and the Belfry. From the bridge, visitors can also see the many beautiful canals that wind through the city, adding to its picturesque charm. The view from the bridge is particularly spectacular at night when the city is illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere.
The Castle of the Counts
The Castle of the Counts, also known as Gravensteen Castle, is another excellent spot to take in Ghent’s stunning skyline. The castle dates back to the 12th century and is an impressive example of medieval architecture. Visitors can climb the castle’s ramparts for stunning views of the city’s historic center and its many spires and rooftops. The view from the castle is particularly impressive during the autumn months when the surrounding trees are ablaze with color.
The Saint Bavo’s Cathedral
The Saint Bavo’s Cathedral is one of Ghent’s most impressive buildings, with stunning Gothic architecture and an impressive collection of art and artifacts. Visitors can climb the cathedral’s tower for breathtaking views of the city’s historic center and the surrounding landscape. From the tower, visitors can see the winding canals, the colorful buildings that make up the city’s charming skyline, and the many parks and green spaces that surround Ghent.
Conclusions
There are many great views in Ghent no matter the season. My personal favorite is the line with the two churches and the Belfry. As always a drone will give you the best perspective and there is no restricted air space above Ghent.