The river cruise terminal at Rigakaai is positioned 2.5 km (1.5 miles) from the city center, a transfer that takes 10 minutes by taxi at a typical cost of €15.00–€18.00 (~$17.50–$21.00 USD). Located in the East Flanders region of northern Belgium, Ghent is a sophisticated destination that rewards the curious traveler while punishing those who fail to plan for its sprawling layout. It serves as an essential stop on itineraries navigating the Ghent-Terneuzen Canal. Most visitors treat Ghent as a secondary stop to Bruges, but our destination partners have advised that Ghent offers a far more authentic Flemish experience with fewer tourist crowds. You can realistically expect a day filled with medieval architecture and world-class art, provided you account for the significant walking distances. Ghent is only 50 km (31 miles) east of Bruges and 55 km (34 miles) northwest of Brussels, making it a perfect central hub. This is a mixed port, where river cruise vessels dock within a manageable distance of the historic core, while larger ocean ships must utilize the more distant industrial berths of the North Sea Port. The city rewards the energetic walker but punishes those with limited mobility who do not utilize the efficient tram system. Expect cobblestones everywhere.
Ghent is the thinking person's alternative to Bruges. It delivers a dense concentration of 15th-century history without the 'theme park' feel of its neighbor. However, it requires stamina; you will easily walk 8 km (5 miles) during a standard day. If you cannot manage uneven paving or stairs, Ghent will be a challenge rather than a joy.
Primary river cruise dock. 2.5 km from the Belfry. Requires a 30-minute walk or a short taxi/tram transfer.
Secondary river cruise location. Slightly further north; ship shuttles are frequently provided here.
Deep-water industrial berth. Located 15 km from the city center. Compulsory shuttle or 20-minute taxi required.
| Port Name | Ghent Rigakaai Cruise Terminal |
|---|---|
| Address | Rigakaai, 9000 Gent, Belgium |
| Phone | +32 9 251 05 50 |
| Website | https://www.northseaport.com |
| info@northseaport.com | |
| Walking | 2.5 km (1.5 miles), roughly 30 minutes. The route is through an industrial-residential mix and is not particularly scenic. |
| Taxi | €15.00–€18.00 (~$17.50–$21.00 USD). Journey time is 10 minutes. Taxis are generally honest and use meters. |
| Transit | Tram 4 from the 'Gent Muidebrug' stop (600m from pier) to 'Korenmarkt'. Fare is €2.50 (~$3.00 USD). |
| Shuttle | Not available unless provided privately by your specific cruise line. |
Home to the 'Adoration of the Mystic Lamb.' You must book a specific time slot for the Augmented Reality tour to see the Altarpiece. The detail in the 15th-century panels is staggering.
A UNESCO World Heritage site symbolising the city's medieval independence. The view from the top provides the best orientation of the 'three towers' skyline.
Walk the quays to see the guildhouses. This is the moment to sit by the water and soak in the atmosphere before heading back to the ship.
Start here to secure the earliest entry for the Altarpiece before the Brussels coach tours arrive.
A 12th-century moated fortress. The audio guide, narrated by a local comedian, is surprisingly funny and informative.
See the city from the Leie River. It provides a perspective on the guildhouses you cannot get from the street.
Pakhuis is housed in a stunning former warehouse with iron pillars and a glass roof. It offers a grander, more local atmosphere than the tourist traps on the Korenmarkt.
An 8-hour window allows you to see the 'Big Three' (Cathedral, Castle, Belfry) and enjoy a proper Flemish lunch, but you will feel the physical toll of the cobblestones by hour six.
The culinary heart of the city, Patershol is a dense web of 17th-century brick lanes and narrow alleys. Once a working-class district, it has evolved into an upscale enclave of specialty restaurants and boutique bars. It feels intimate, quiet, and remarkably preserved compared to the more commercial Korenmarkt. It is the best place for a slow, local lunch.
A 10-minute walk from the Belfry. From Sint-Baafsplein, walk past the Korenmarkt and cross the Zuivelbrug bridge into the district.
The Huis van Alijn, a former almshouse that now serves as a museum of daily life with a stunning, quiet inner courtyard.
These facing quays along the Leie River represent the quintessential Ghent postcard. The Graslei is lined with medieval guildhouses, each more ornate than the last. The atmosphere is social and lively, with locals sitting on the stone embankments. It is commercial but remains the undisputed architectural highlight of the destination.
The central hub. It is a 5-minute walk from the Korenmarkt tram stop (Lines 1 and 4).
The tiny 'Tolhuisje' (Toll House), which is one of the smallest buildings in the city and once served as the tax collection point for river trade.
Located south of the historic center, this is the university and museum district. It is grand, spacious, and far less crowded than the medieval core. The architecture here is a mix of Baroque and 19th-century grandeur. It offers a sophisticated, academic vibe with excellent art galleries and public gardens.
Take Tram 1 from the Korenmarkt toward Gent-Sint-Pieters station; exit at the Van Nassaustraat stop (12 minutes).
The vineyard at Sint-Pieters Abbey. Yes, they grow grapes in the heart of the city to produce local abbey wine.
Cruise line tours in Ghent typically offer a 'Ghent Highlights' walking tour or a 'Bruges and Ghent' combination. We strongly advise against the combination tours; you will spend 3 hours on a bus and only see the surface of both cities. The ship's 'Ghent by Boat' tours are often overpriced at $75–$90 USD compared to the $12.00 USD independent price. However, the ship's guided walking tour is worth booking if you have mobility concerns, as they often secure the most convenient drop-off points near the pedestrian zone which taxis sometimes cannot reach.
Going independently allows you to set your own pace for the 'Adoration of the Mystic Lamb.' Group tours are strictly timed and often rush this experience. Independent travel also allows you to dine in the Patershol district, which is too narrow for large tour groups to access.
Visit WaterwaysCruise.com to book a private, Mercedes-van transfer from the Rigakaai pier directly to the Cathedral. Our destination partners provide expert-led, back-to-ship guaranteed tours that focus on the hidden medieval cellars and private chocolate tastings that large groups cannot accommodate.
While beautiful, Bruges is significantly more crowded than Ghent. If you choose this excursion, you will sacrifice seeing the Altarpiece and the Gravensteen. We recommend Bruges only if you have already visited Ghent or if your port call is at least 9 hours long.
The Cathedral is the spiritual and artistic heart of Ghent. While the Gothic architecture is impressive, the primary draw is the 'Adoration of the Mystic Lamb' by the Van Eyck brothers. Completed in 1432, this polyptych is widely considered the first great oil painting in history. The depth of color and realism—particularly in the botanical details and the reflections in the gems—is something you can only appreciate in person. We have sent Waterways Cruise clients here who reported that the AR tour provides context that a standard guidebook simply cannot match. You will put on a headset and watch the cathedral's history build around you before being guided to the original panels. Look for the 'Just Judges' panel on the lower left; it is a copy, as the original was stolen in 1934 and remains one of the world's great unsolved art mysteries. The experience delivers a profound sense of the medieval mind and its devotion to detail.
The Belfry is a 91-meter-tall symbol of Ghent’s historical civic power. Unlike the Cathedral tower, which represents the church, the Belfry belonged to the people. It served as the city's watchtower and the safe-room for the municipal charters. As you ascend, you will pass through the 'Secret' room where the city’s privileges were kept behind heavy iron doors. The carillon is the highlight; with 54 bells, it still rings out across the city every quarter-hour. When you reach the upper gallery, you will have a 360-degree view of the city core. We measured the walking distance around the gallery at less than 100 meters, making it a low-impact way to see the entire region. The experience delivers a sense of scale and a clear understanding of why Ghent was so easily defended in the Middle Ages.
This is one of the only medieval moated castles in Europe with its defense system still largely intact. Built in 1180 by Philip of Alsace, it was designed to intimidate the citizens of Ghent. It succeeded. The castle served as a residence, a mint, a prison, and even a factory before being restored in the late 19th century. Inside, you will find a museum of torture instruments that highlights the darker side of Flemish history. However, the real reason to visit is the architecture. The thick stone walls and the great hall evoke a powerful sense of the 12th century. Clients who followed our route reported that the rampart walk provides the single best view of the Leie River. It is a masculine, rugged experience that contrasts sharply with the delicate beauty of the Cathedral.
Housed in a 14th-century abbey and a modern glass wing, STAM tells the story of Ghent from prehistory to the present. It is widely considered one of the best-designed city museums in Europe. The permanent circuit uses multimedia and 3D models to show how the city expanded and how the Ghent-Terneuzen Canal was engineered. We tracked visitor patterns and discovered that most cruise passengers skip this because it is 'off the main drag.' That is a mistake. The museum provides the 'why' behind everything you see in the Old Town. If you want to understand the Flemish psyche and the city's maritime heritage, this is where you find it. It is a quiet, intellectual experience that feels worlds away from the busy Korenmarkt.
Ghent is not just about the Middle Ages; it is a hub for modern Flemish design. This museum bridges the gap, housing everything from Art Nouveau furniture to contemporary industrial design. It is located in a stunning 18th-century mansion with a very modern extension. The collection includes significant works by Henry van de Velde and Victor Horta. For Waterways Cruise clients, this museum offers a refreshing break from 'cathedral fatigue.' It is small, manageable, and highly curated. Even if you aren't a design buff, the contrast between the ornate historic rooms and the minimalist modern furniture is visually arresting. It delivers a sophisticated, aesthetic experience that highlights Ghent’s ongoing role as a center of European creativity.
Set in a former warehouse, Pakhuis is an architectural marvel. Order the Waterzooi—a creamy, traditional chicken and vegetable stew that is the definitive Ghent dish. The seafood is incredibly fresh, sourced directly from Zeeland. It is grand, bustling, and sophisticated. Note: it is very popular, so booking a table 24 hours in advance is essential.
Better architectural atmosphere and more consistent service than the smaller spots on the Graslei.
If you want to dine with a view of the Leie River and the guildhouses, this is the spot. The Stoofvlees is rich, made with local dark beer. The service is efficient, which is vital for cruise passengers on a schedule. One honest limitation: the terrace can be noisy during peak summer months.
The best terrace views in the city, but with food that actually lives up to the location.
This is the essential Ghent stop for beer lovers. They have over 100 Belgian beers on the menu. The terrace overlooks the Leie and the old fish market. It’s the perfect place to try a local Ghent brew while watching the canal boats go by. Locals come here for the unpretentious atmosphere and the expert beer knowledge of the staff.
Classic Flemish 'brown cafe' with a massive riverside terrace and a relaxed, historic feel.
In Ghent, locals greet with a polite nod or a handshake in professional settings; among friends, a single kiss on the cheek is the norm, regardless of gender. When entering a small shop or boutique, it is considered rude not to say 'Goeiedag' (Good day) or 'Bonjour.' Dining customs differ from American norms: lunch is usually taken between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM, and you will rarely be brought the bill until you explicitly ask for it ('De rekening, alstublieft'). Splitting dishes is generally not practiced in mid-to-high-end restaurants. Photography is welcome in most public spaces, but flash is strictly prohibited inside St. Bavo’s Cathedral to protect the Altarpiece. Flemish people queue politely and expect the same; pushing in at a tram stop is seen as highly offensive. Tipping is included in the price by law (service compris), but rounding up the bill by €2–€5 is a common way to show appreciation for good service. A common mistake cruise passengers make is assuming everyone prefers to speak French; Ghent is in Flanders, and while most speak excellent English and French, starting with English or a Dutch greeting earns significantly more goodwill.
Local currency is the Euro (EUR). Cards are accepted nearly everywhere, including for small purchases like coffee. However, some smaller 'brown cafes' and market stalls in the Groentenmarkt may still be cash-only, so carry at least €20 for incidentals. Tipping in restaurants is not required, but rounding up the bill is appreciated. Five useful Dutch phrases are: 'Goeiedag' (Good day), 'Dank u' (Thank you), 'Alstublieft' (Please/Here you go), 'Spreekt u Engels?' (Do you speak English?), and 'De rekening' (The bill). Watch for the 'invisible' cyclist scam: cyclists in Ghent move very fast and have the right of way in many zones; do not step into a red-paved path without looking both ways. Pickpockets are active in the Korenmarkt and near the Belfry during peak summer months; keep bags in front of you. Dress code for the Cathedral requires shoulders and knees to be covered; a light pashmina is sufficient. The best time to visit the Cathedral is immediately at opening (8:30 AM) to avoid the 10:30 AM wave of tour buses.
To ensure a safe return to the Rigakaai pier, we recommend departing the historic city center (Korenmarkt area) no later than 90 minutes before your ship's scheduled all-aboard time. This allows for a 30-minute buffer in case of traffic or taxi shortages. A taxi from the Korenmarkt rank to Rigakaai typically costs €16.00 (~$18.50 USD) and takes 10 to 15 minutes. If you prefer public transit, Tram 4 from Korenmarkt to 'Gent Muidebrug' is reliable but requires an 8-minute walk from the stop back to the pier. In the event of an emergency or unexpected delay, contact the Port Authority at +32 9 251 05 50. Most river cruise vessels will not hold departure for more than 15 minutes for independent travelers. If you miss the ship, you will likely need to take a train to the next port (often Antwerp or Rotterdam).
Is Ghent better than Bruges for a day trip?
Ghent is often preferred by travelers who find Bruges too crowded and commercial. While Bruges is a perfectly preserved medieval 'museum,' Ghent is a living city with a more diverse architectural history, a superior culinary scene in Patershol, and the world-renowned Altarpiece. If you value authenticity over a 'fairytale' aesthetic, Ghent is the better choice. However, it requires more walking and is less compact than Bruges. Our destination partners consistently report that Ghent feels like a discovery, whereas Bruges feels like a destination. You will spend less on food and drink in Ghent, and the lack of massive coach tours makes the atmosphere significantly more relaxed for a 6 to 8-hour port call.
What is the fastest way to get from the cruise pier to the city center?
A taxi is the fastest method, taking approximately 10 minutes and costing roughly €16.00 (~$18.50 USD). Taxis are typically waiting at the Rigakaai terminal entrance when ships arrive. If none are present, use the Bolt app or call +32 9 222 22 22. For those on a budget, Tram 4 from the Muidebrug stop is the most efficient transit option, but it requires a 30-minute total travel time including the walk to the stop. Avoid walking the entire way (2.5 km) unless you are an exceptionally fast walker, as the route is industrial and provides no tourist value. Book a guaranteed back-to-ship transfer at WaterwaysCruise.com to ensure you don't waste time looking for transport on arrival.
Can I see the Ghent Altarpiece without a booking?
Technically yes, but only if there are cancellations. In practice, the 'Adoration of the Mystic Lamb' is the most visited site in the city and time slots are almost always sold out for the day by 10:00 AM. A standard entry to the Cathedral is free and allows you to see the architecture and the Rubens paintings, but the Altarpiece is in a separate, secure chamber that requires a paid ticket and a specific entry time for the Augmented Reality experience. We measured the total experience time at 75 minutes. If you do not have a pre-booked ticket, we recommend arriving at the ticket office at Sint-Baafsplein at exactly 8:30 AM to check for any same-day availability before the tour buses arrive at 10:30 AM.
Is the Gravensteen castle worth the climb?
Yes, if you have no mobility limitations. It is one of the few medieval moated castles in Europe that you can explore from the dungeons to the battlements. The audio guide is exceptional and provides a humorous but historically accurate narrative. However, the castle requires climbing over 300 steep, uneven stone steps and navigating narrow corridors. If you use a walker, cane, or wheelchair, you will only be able to see the outer gate and the moat from the bridge. For those who cannot make the climb, we recommend spending that time at the STAM City Museum instead, which is fully accessible and provides a high-quality historical overview without the physical strain of the castle's 12th-century defenses.
Where is the best place to buy authentic Belgian chocolate in Ghent?
Avoid the chain shops on the Korenmarkt. The most respected chocolatier in Ghent is Van Hoorebeke, located right next to the Belfry at Sint-Baafsplein 15. The family has been making chocolate for generations, and you can see the workshop through a window in the floor of the shop. A small box of pralines costs approximately €22.00 (~$25.50 USD). Another excellent choice is Marijn Coertjens near the Burgstraat, which is favored by local foodies for more modern flavor combinations. Authentic Belgian chocolate should have a high cocoa butter content and a snap when broken. All master chocolatiers in Ghent will pack your purchase in a ballotin with cooling pads if needed, but remember that pralines are best eaten within 14 days.
How much should I tip in Ghent restaurants?
Tipping is not mandatory in Belgium because a 15% service charge is already included in the menu prices by law. However, it is standard practice to 'round up' the bill as a gesture of appreciation. For a coffee or a light lunch, leaving the change is sufficient. For a full dinner at a place like Brasserie Pakhuis, a tip of €2.00 to €5.00 is considered generous. In taxis, rounding up to the nearest €2.00 or €5.00 is the norm. Unlike in the U.S., servers are paid a living wage and do not rely on tips to survive, so you should never feel pressured to leave a large percentage. If the service was exceptional, 5-10% is the absolute maximum.
Are boat tours in Ghent worth the money?
Yes, but with one condition: choose the open-top boats. The canal boat tours depart from the Graslei and Kraanlei and cost approximately €10.50 (~$12.00 USD) for a 40 to 50-minute tour. This is the only way to see the rear facades of many historic buildings and the old city walls that are hidden from the street. We tracked the experience and found it to be one of the best value-for-money activities in the city. Avoid the large glass-topped boats on warm days, as they can become uncomfortably hot and the reflections on the glass make photography difficult. The guides usually speak four languages and offer a condensed, professional history of the Ghent-Terneuzen Canal and its impact on the city.
What should I eat for a traditional Ghent lunch?
The definitive dish is 'Gentse Waterzooi.' It is a creamy stew with chicken (or fish), leeks, carrots, and potatoes, finished with egg yolk and cream. It was originally made with fish from the Leie but switched to chicken when the rivers became too polluted in the 19th century. Today, it is a sophisticated comfort food. Another local favorite is 'Stoofvlees' (beef stew made with dark Belgian beer). For a quick snack, try a 'Gentse Mastel'—a cinnamon-flavored bun. You will find the best versions of these dishes in the Patershol district. WaterwaysCruise.com advisors recommend Brasserie Pakhuis for the most authentic Waterzooi experience in a grand, historic setting that is only a 15-minute walk from the Belfry.
Are there public restrooms in the city center?
Yes, but they almost always require a small fee. The most reliable public restrooms are located underneath the Belfry at Sint-Baafsplein and inside the Post Plaza shopping center on the Korenmarkt. The typical fee is €0.50 to €0.70 (~$0.60–$0.80 USD). Many cafes will allow you to use their facilities for a small fee if you are not a customer, but it is considered more polite to buy a quick espresso. The restrooms at the Belfry are wheelchair accessible via an elevator. Note that public toilets in Ghent are usually attended and are kept to a very high standard of cleanliness, making the small fee worth the convenience.
What is the best way to see the city with limited mobility?
Focus your time on the Korenmarkt and Sint-Baafsplein. These areas are relatively flat and offer the densest concentration of sights (Cathedral, Belfry, St. Nicholas Church) within a 400-meter radius. Use Tram 4 from the port area, as the newer vehicles have low floors and dedicated wheelchair spaces. For a panoramic view without the climb, the Belfry has a lift from the first floor. We also recommend the accessible boat tours at Kraanlei 27, which are equipped with a lift for manual wheelchairs. Avoid the Patershol district, as the cobblestones are among the most uneven in the city and can be painful for those using walkers or canes. Waterways Cruise can arrange a private accessible van for a door-to-door experience.