Ghent Cruise Port
Ghent Rigakaai Cruise Terminal
Ghent, Belgium Port
Flanders UN/LOCODE BEGNE Port of call
Ghent Cruise Port Location
| Port Details | |
|---|---|
| Country | Belgium |
| Region | Flanders |
| UN/LOCODE | BEGNE |
| Contact | |
| Address | Rigakaai, 9000 Gent, Belgium |
| Port phone | +32 9 251 05 50 |
| Website | www.northseaport.com |
| Geography | |
| Coordinates | 51.05000, 3.71667 |
| Accessibility | |
| Accessible | Limited |
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 it is worth knowing 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 — Port Overview
History
Ghent first emerged as a major economic power in the 11th century, strategically positioned at the confluence of the Leie and Scheldt rivers. By the 13th century, it was the second-largest city in Europe north of the Alps, trailing only Paris. This immense wealth was built on the back of the English wool trade and a powerful textile industry that dictated European fashion for centuries. You will still see evidence of this prosperity in the ornate guildhouses lining the Graslei. The city’s history is punctuated by a fierce spirit of independence, most notably during the revolt against Emperor Charles V, who was born here in 1500. After the city refused to pay war taxes, the Emperor famously forced its leaders to walk through the streets in their undershirts with nooses around their necks in 1540. Today, locals are still nicknamed 'Noose-bearers' (Stroppendragers). The industrial revolution in the 19th century brought the construction of the Ghent-Terneuzen Canal, which opened in 1827 and transformed the city into Belgium’s second-largest seaport. This maritime connection remains visible today as you watch modern vessels navigate the same waterways that once carried medieval wool barges to the North Sea.
The Verdict
Those who make the most of Ghent tend to be the ones who arrive with a plan for the Altarpiece and the flexibility to navigate the historic cobblestones. This guide has been fact-checked by J. Richard and the Waterways Cruise editorial team. Excursions that guarantee a return to the ship can be tailored to your mobility, interests, and pace, so missing departure is never a concern. At Waterways Cruise, no two travelers want the same day ashore, and Ghent offers enough depth to satisfy every curiosity.
Things to Do & See in Ghent
| Attraction | Type | Address | Phone | Hours | Website | Admission |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| St. Bavo's Cathedral (Ghent Altarpiece) | Cultural Site | Sint-Baafsplein, 9000 Gent | +32 9 269 20 45 | Mon-Sat 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM, Sun 1:00 PM – 5:30 PM | sintbaafskathedraal.be | EUR €12.50 |
| The Ghent Belfry | Historical Site | Sint-Baafsplein, 9000 Gent | +32 9 233 39 54 | Daily 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM | belfortgent.be | EUR €10.00 |
| Gravensteen (Castle of the Counts) | Historical Site | Sint-Veerleplein 11, 9000 Gent | +32 9 225 93 06 | Daily 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM | historischehuizen.stad.gent | EUR €13.00 |
| STAM - Ghent City Museum | Museum | Godshuizenlaan 2, 9000 Gent | +32 9 267 14 00 | Mon-Fri 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Sat-Sun 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM | stamgent.be | EUR €11.00 |
| Design Museum Gent | Museum | Jan Breydelstraat 5, 9000 Gent | +32 9 267 99 99 | Check website (currently under renovation/partial opening) | designmuseumgent.be | EUR €10.00 |
St. Bavo's Cathedral (Ghent Altarpiece) · Cultural Site
EUR €12.50The 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. Travelers often report 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. You will come away with a profound sense of the medieval mind and its devotion to detail.
Sint-Baafsplein, 9000 Gent ·+32 9 269 20 45 ·Mon-Sat 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM, Sun 1:00 PM – 5:30 PM ·www.sintbaafskathedraal.be
The Ghent Belfry · Historical Site
EUR €10.00The 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. The walking distance around the gallery is less than 100 meters, making it a low-impact way to see the entire region. This stop gives you a sense of scale and a clear understanding of why Ghent was so easily defended in the Middle Ages.
Sint-Baafsplein, 9000 Gent ·+32 9 233 39 54 ·Daily 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM ·www.belfortgent.be
Gravensteen (Castle of the Counts) · Historical Site
EUR €13.00This 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. Those who follow the rampart walk report it 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.
Sint-Veerleplein 11, 9000 Gent ·+32 9 225 93 06 ·Daily 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM ·historischehuizen.stad.gent
STAM - Ghent City Museum · Museum
EUR €11.00Housed 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. Visitor patterns suggest that most cruise passengers skip this location because it is 'off the main drag,' which may be 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.
Godshuizenlaan 2, 9000 Gent ·+32 9 267 14 00 ·Mon-Fri 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM, Sat-Sun 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM ·stamgent.be
Design Museum Gent · Museum
EUR €10.00Ghent 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.
Jan Breydelstraat 5, 9000 Gent ·+32 9 267 99 99 ·Check website (currently under renovation/partial opening) ·www.designmuseumgent.be
Eating & Drinking in Ghent
Ghent’s culinary identity is defined by the 'Waterzooi,' a rich, creamy stew made with chicken (or occasionally fish) and julienned vegetables. Unlike the heavier stews of the Ardennes, Ghent’s version is lighter and reflects its history as a wealthy trade city that could afford cream and eggs. For a drink, you must try 'Gentse Tripel' or the beers from the local Gruut brewery, which uniquely uses a medieval herb blend (gruut) instead of hops. For street food, visit the Groentenmarkt to find the 'Cuberdon' carts. These purple, cone-shaped candies are hard on the outside with a raspberry liquid center; they are a Ghent specialty. Be aware: cuberdons do not travel well as the center crystallizes after 10 days, so eat them while you are here. Tourists often expect to find 'Belgian Waffles' on every corner, but locals actually favor the 'Gentse Mastel'—a cinnamon bun that is traditionally iron-pressed until flat. You’ll find the genuine version at any traditional bakery like Himschoot in the Groentenmarkt.
| Place | Address | Phone | Hours | Website | Price range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brasserie Pakhuis | Schuurkenstraat 4, 9000 Gent | +32 9 223 55 55 | Mon-Sat 12:00 PM – 11:30 PM | pakhuis.be | €35.00–€55.00 (~$40.00–$63.00 USD) |
| De Graslei | Graslei 7, 9000 Gent | +32 9 225 11 09 | Daily 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM | degraslei.be | €30.00–€50.00 (~$34.50–$57.50 USD) |
| Het Waterhuis aan de Bierkant | Groentenmarkt 9, 9000 Gent | +32 9 225 04 19 | Daily 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM | waterhuisaandebierkant.be | €5.00–€9.00 (~$6.00–$10.50 USD) |
Brasserie Pakhuis
€35.00–€55.00 (~$40.00–$63.00 USD)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.
Schuurkenstraat 4, 9000 Gent ·+32 9 223 55 55 ·Mon-Sat 12:00 PM – 11:30 PM
De Graslei
€30.00–€50.00 (~$34.50–$57.50 USD)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.
Graslei 7, 9000 Gent ·+32 9 225 11 09 ·Daily 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM
Het Waterhuis aan de Bierkant
€5.00–€9.00 (~$6.00–$10.50 USD)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.
Groentenmarkt 9, 9000 Gent ·+32 9 225 04 19 ·Daily 11:00 AM – 1:00 AM
Getting There & Around
Once you leave the Rigakaai terminal, the primary way to navigate Ghent is via the 'De Lijn' tram network. The walk to the nearest tram stop (Muidebrug) takes about 8 minutes. Buy a 'Lijnkaart' or use contactless payment on the tram; a single journey costs €2.50 (~$3.00 USD). Uber does operate in Ghent, but local taxis are more reliable for short port-to-center transfers. The taxi wait time at the Korenmarkt takes under 4 minutes during peak hours. Bike rentals are plentiful near the Dampoort station, and Ghent’s infrastructure is exceptionally bike-friendly, featuring 'bicycle streets' where cars are legally prohibited from overtaking cyclists. One tip most guides omit: the city center is a 'Low Emission Zone' (LEZ). If you are hiring a car independently, ensure it is registered or you will face a €150 fine. For most visitors, the combination of Tram 4 and walking is the most efficient strategy.
Itineraries & Sample Walks
4-Hour Shore Excursion in Ghent
St. Bavo's Cathedral (Sint-Baafskathedraal)
9:00 AM (75 min)
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.
- Taxi from Rigakaai terminal directly to Sint-Baafsplein. (€16.00 (~$18.50 USD))
- Entry: €12.50 ($14.50)
- The AR tour is excellent, but if you're short on time, you can enter the main nave for free to see the Rubens painting on the right, which most skip.
Ghent Belfry
10:30 AM (45 min)
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.
- 1-minute walk across the square. (Free)
- Entry: €10.00 ($11.50)
- There is a lift that goes to the top floor after the first set of stairs, making this much more accessible than other medieval towers.
Graslei and Korenlei
11:30 AM (60 min)
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.
- 5-minute walk via Cataloniëstraat and the Korenmarkt. (Free)
- Entry: Free (Free)
- Look for the house at Graslei 11; it has a tilted facade designed to help winches lift grain into the loft.
Lunch Recommendation
De Vitrine (or nearby Brasserie Pakhuis)
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.
Order: Ghentse Waterzooi (creamy chicken stew), Fresh Zeeland Oysters
Schuurkenstraat 4, 9000 Gent
Cost: €45.00 (~$52.00 USD)
8-Hour Full Day Experience in Ghent
St. Bavo's Cathedral
9:00 AM (90 min)
Start here to secure the earliest entry for the Altarpiece before the Brussels coach tours arrive.
- Taxi from Rigakaai terminal. (€16.00 (~$18.50 USD))
- Entry: €12.50 ($14.50)
- Visit the crypt below the cathedral; it contains frescoes that date back to the 15th century.
Gravensteen (Castle of the Counts)
11:00 AM (90 min)
A 12th-century moated fortress. The audio guide, narrated by a local comedian, is surprisingly funny and informative.
- 10-minute walk via the Korenmarkt and Groentenmarkt. (Free)
- Entry: €13.00 ($15.00)
- The view from the battlements is superior to the Belfry because it includes the Belfry itself in the frame.
Guided Canal Boat Tour
2:30 PM (50 min)
See the city from the Leie River. It provides a perspective on the guildhouses you cannot get from the street.
- 2-minute walk from Gravensteen. (Free)
- Entry: €10.50 ($12.00)
- Avoid the larger, covered boats if the weather is clear; the open-top boats offer much better photo angles.
Getting back to the ship
To ensure a safe return to the Rigakaai pier, it is a good idea to depart 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).
Weather & Best Time to Visit Ghent
Weather & What to Pack
Cruise season: April through October
12°C to 22°C (54°F–72°F). Rainfall is common, usually as a persistent drizzle rather than heavy storms. Humidity is moderate.
What to wear: Layering is essential for Belgium. A high-quality waterproof trench coat or windbreaker are recommended. Footwear is the most critical decision: choose thick-soled, rubberized walking shoes to absorb the impact of the cobblestones. Avoid thin flats or heels, which can get stuck in the gaps between stones. Bring a small, sturdy umbrella that can withstand the wind gusts common near the Ghent-Terneuzen Canal.
Weather risks: Sudden fog on the canal can occasionally delay morning arrivals. High winds can make the upper decks of canal boats uncomfortable.
Early May offers the best balance of clear skies and manageable temperatures before the August humidity arrives.
| Season | Conditions | Hazards | Affected areas | Visitor advice |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring (March–May) | Cool and unpredictable with frequent light rain and breezy conditions near the waterways. | Wet cobblestones in the Patershol district become extremely slippery. The wind off the Ghent-Terneuzen Canal can make the open Rigakaai pier feel significantly colder than the city center. | Patershol alleys, Graslei quayside, and the exposed Rigakaai terminal area. | Wear shoes with significant rubber grip. Avoid leather soles entirely. A windproof shell is more useful than a heavy coat. |
| Summer (June–August) | Mild to warm, ranging from 18°C to 26°C (64°F–79°F). Humidity can rise during August. | The stone surfaces of the Korenmarkt and Sint-Baafsplein hold heat, creating a 'heat island' effect. Dehydration is a risk on the unshaded boat tours. | Korenmarkt, Sint-Baafsplein, and the open-top canal tour boats. | Book the morning boat tours before 11:00 AM to avoid the midday sun. Carry a refillable bottle; public fountains are sparse. |
Practical Information
Cultural etiquette
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.
Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake |
|---|
Waiting until you arrive in the city to book tickets for the Ghent Altarpiece. |
Spending the first hour of your port call walking from the Rigakaai terminal. |
Attempting to visit both Ghent and Bruges in a single day. |
Wearing thin-soled shoes or heels. |
Practical tips
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.
Cruise Lines Visiting Ghent
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FAQ — Ghent
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. Ghent often feels like a discovery, whereas Bruges feels more like a destination, according to reports. 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 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. The total experience time takes about 75 minutes. If you do not have a pre-booked ticket, you should arrive 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, it is best to spend 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. This activity is considered one of the best value-for-money options 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. Brasserie Pakhuis for the most authentic Waterzooi experience in a grand is recommended, 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. The accessible boat tours at Kraanlei 27 is recommended, 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.
Fact-checked and co-written by J. Richard, Founder, Waterways Cruise, with the Waterways Cruise Content Team.
Published May 19, 2026 · Last updated November 2, 2026
This guide is researched and reviewed by our editorial team, but prices, hours, and availability change often. Confirm current details directly with venues, excursion operators, and your cruise line before you travel.