Ghent Travel Guide

Belgium

273K
Population
ANR
Nearest airport
$136
Daily Budget
80
Walkability
HIGH
Safety

Interactive Map

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Plan your arrival in Ghent

Arriving

  • Antwerp International Airport (Deurne) (ANR) · 54 km awayServes Antwerp
  • Brussels Airport (BRU) · 56 km awayServes Zaventem
  • Main stationsGent-Sint-Pieters

Getting online on arrival

  1. Install your Belgium eSIM at home over Wi-Fi: iPhone or Android steps.
  2. When you land at Antwerp International Airport (Deurne) (ANR), turn on the eSIM line and data roaming for it.
  3. Networks listed on our Belgium plans: Base (4G), Orange (4G) and Proximus (5G).
  4. Belgium plans currently start at $2.75, for 500MB/day over 1 day. Compare all 13 plans.

New to eSIMs? How an eSIM works · How much data you need

Landing late or with kids? Pre-book an airport transfer

Staying connected

  • Coverage4G/5G · good
  • Wi-Fiwidespread
  • Suggested dataabout 1.2 GB a day · work it out
  • Weak signalCertain areas in the outskirts
Compare eSIM plans

Useful apps

  • TransportDe Lijn and GoPass
  • Food deliveryDeliveroo and UberEats

Ghent at a glance

Region
Flemish Region
Population
272,657 (2025)
On or near
Ketelvest and Ghent–Terneuzen Canal
Currency
euro (EUR)
Plug types
C and E
Emergency numbers
Police 101 · Ambulance 100 · Fire 100
Drives on the
right
Official languages
Dutch, French and German
Calling code
+32

Sources: Wikidata and OurAirports open data, checked 29 October 2026.

Top Attractions

1
Gravensteen Castle
A medieval castle with a rich history and stunning views.
1.5h $12
2
Saint Bavo's Cathedral
Home to the famous Ghent Altarpiece.
1h $5

Best Areas to Stay

City Center
Close to main attractions and vibrant nightlife.
TouristsNightlife
Patershol
Charming streets with many restaurants.
FamiliesDining

Typical Costs (USD)

$120
Hotel/Night
$18
Meal
$3
Transport
$4
Coffee
Estimated Daily Budget (USD)
Backpacker: $60 Tourist: $136 Family: $414

* Estimated from typical costs

Local Tips

Peak Hours:8-9am, 5-6pm
Best Day:Weekdays
Custom:Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory.
Common Mistakes
  • Not trying local dishes
  • Underestimating public transport times

Food & Drink

Must Try:Waterzooi, Gentse Stoverij
Vegetarian:Medium
Tap Water:Drinkable
De GrasleiPakhuis

Getting Around

Public Transport:Good
Walkability:80/100
BusTram

Climate & Weather

Best time to visit: May, September, October

Warmest monthJul24°C average high
Coolest monthFeb1°C average low
Wettest monthDec84 mm of rain
Driest monthApr44 mm of rain
Average daily high and low (°C) Rain (mm)
Monthly figures
MonthHigh °CLow °CRain mmRainy days
Jan6.61.46812
Feb7.61.35611
Mar11.13.15311
Apr15.25.34410
May18.69.05510
Jun21.411.97010
Jul23.613.97210
Aug23.513.58010
Sep20.010.76710
Oct15.47.86811
Nov10.34.67913
Dec7.02.18414

Averages for 1991–2020, not a forecast. Source: WMO climate normals (Semmerzake, 13 km from Ghent).

Ghent travel FAQ

When is the best time to visit Ghent?

May, September and October are usually the best months to visit Ghent. Average daytime highs range from about 7°C in January to 24°C in July.

How much does a day in Ghent cost?

Plan from about US$60 a day on a backpacker budget to around US$136 for a typical visitor, covering accommodation, meals and local transport (estimates).

How do I get around Ghent?

Public transport includes bus and tram and is rated good. Walkability scores 80/100.

Which airport serves Ghent?

The nearest airport with scheduled flights is Antwerp International Airport (Deurne) (ANR), about 54 km from Ghent. The nearest larger airport is Brussels Airport (BRU), about 56 km away.

Is Ghent safe for tourists?

Overall safety is rated high. Watch for pickpocketing in crowded areas. Areas generally considered safe include Graslei and Korenlei. Check official travel advice before you go.

How do I stay connected in Ghent?

Install a Belgium eSIM before you travel and turn it on when you land at Antwerp International Airport (Deurne) (ANR). Our Belgium plans list Base (4G), Orange (4G) and Proximus (5G).

Is tap water safe to drink in Ghent?

Tap water is generally considered drinkable.

Explore more of Belgium

Belgium travel guideBelgium eSIM plans

Straight-line distances from Ghent.

Disclaimer

The information in this guide is intended for general travel planning purposes only and may change without notice. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, Graba SIM does not guarantee the completeness, reliability, or timeliness of the content. Travellers should verify entry requirements, local laws, health advice and services with official sources before and during their trip. Graba SIM is not responsible for any loss, injury, or inconvenience arising from reliance on the information provided. Always check with relevant government and health authorities for the most up-to-date travel requirements.