My Photography & Travel Guide To Ghent, Belgium
We walked onto Saint Michael's Bridge at sunrise and Ghent was already in the water below us.
The three medieval towers, the Belfry, Saint Nicholas' Church, and Saint Bavo's Cathedral, reflected in the still canal as the light came in from the east and turned the guild houses gold. There was no one else there. The city was completely quiet. In that hour before the cafés open and the cyclists appear and the day starts, Ghent belongs entirely to whoever arrived early enough to deserve it.
We had been looking forward to this city for a long time. When you talk to Belgians about whether to visit Bruges or Ghent, they have strong opinions. Both are worth visiting. Bruges is more polished, more elegant, more immediately recognizable as picturesque. Ghent has more edge. It is a university city, young and creative, with graffiti around the corner from Gothic cathedrals and excellent vegetarian restaurants on the same block as brown cafés that have been serving the same beer since the 14th century.
Our hotel made the whole trip. The 1898 The Post is in the exact center of everything, a former post office converted into one of the most beautiful hotels in Belgium. Saint Nicholas' Church is fifty meters from the front door. Saint Michael's Bridge is a minute's walk. The three towers are visible from the breakfast room. The location is simply perfect for a photography visit, and two days is exactly the right amount of time to see Ghent properly.
I should also tell you about arriving at the hotel. It did not go smoothly. But that story is in the guide below, and it has a happy ending.
In this Photography Guide to Ghent, I share what two days in this city revealed: the photography locations, the hotels, the chocolate, the frites, and the specific morning light that makes Saint Michael's Bridge one of the finest photography spots in Belgium.
On Saint Michael's Bridge
So, where Is Ghent Located?
Ghent is a port city in the Flemish region of Belgium, about an hour’s drive from Brussels and 45 minutes from Bruges. It is a University town with a strong focus on students. Hence, the Hipsters!!
I would definitely try to visit Bruges and Ghent since they are not only so close together but are also very different yet charming cities.
How Long Should you stay in Ghent?
If you're wondering how long to spend in Ghent, I think two days is the perfect amount of time. If you're visiting Ghent from Brussels, you can easily book a day trip to Ghent from there as well. But I would definitely stay overnight. The best photo opportunities will be at sunrise when the city is quiet.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Ghent is during the spring (April to June) or fall (September to November). During these seasons, the weather is mild, the city is less crowded, and the light is perfect for photography. Summer is also a popular time, especially for the Ghent Festival in July, but it can be more crowded.
Where should you stay?
The Historic Center is the heart of Ghent and the best place to stay if you want to be close to the main attractions and soak in the city’s atmosphere.
The 1898 The Post
This is where we stayed, and the moment you walk in you understand the Harry Potter comparison immediately. The original post office architecture, the vaulted ceilings, the Gothic drama of the interior, all of it preserved and converted into a hotel that has no equivalent for atmosphere in Ghent. The rooms are large and beautifully designed. The location is genuinely perfect: Saint Nicholas' Church is fifty meters from the front door, Saint Michael's Bridge is a one-minute walk, and every major photography location in the city is within a five-minute walk. Our best recommendation in Ghent, without hesitation.
1898 The Post Hotel
It is a historic hotel in the middle of the city center of Ghent, with rooms that feel like a Parisian apartment. The hotel used to be a Post office before it was converted into a hotel. It is located in just ideal location where everything you want to see is just minutes away.
The only issue to keep in mind is that there is NO Parking at the hotel.
"An Amateur Travel Move"
As we drove to the hotel, Google Maps had a hard time locating it. In a pure amateur mistake, I drove into the restricted city center. I somehow ended up on a pedestrian street with huge crowds. Oops!! Fortunately, someone walking on the crowded street knocked on our car window, advised us to turn around immediately, and directed us to the hotel. There are definitely kind people everywhere!!
If you drive into the restricted areas of historic city centers in Europe, you can be fined up to 500 Euros. Luckily, we were not fined. Most hotels in Europe will take down your license number and let the police know that you are a hotel guest, so that you are not fined.
So we finally reached the hotel, a bit frustrated, and they told us to park in the public parking garage about 600 yards from the hotel. Wait What! That's a bit inconvenient.
At this point, our frustration grew so we thought of not staying. So we drove to the parking garage, dragged our suitcases over the cobblestone street, and finally made it to the hotel. Perhaps sensing our frustration with the parking situation, the hotel staff kindly upgraded our room and offered us a welcome drink. That simple gesture of kindness made a big difference.
Luxury Options
Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Reylof — A luxurious historic hotel with a stunning courtyard, wellness center, and elegant rooms. One of the finest luxury properties in Ghent outside the 1898 The Post.
Hotel Harmony — Boutique hotel directly on the Graslei Canal with picturesque views, modern amenities, and a warm atmosphere. An excellent alternative location for photographers wanting canal views from the room.
Mid-Level Options
NH Gent Belfort: Well-positioned mid-range hotel near the Town Hall with comfortable rooms and easy access to all the main photography locations.
Ghent River Hotel: A well-regarded mid-range option in a historic building with riverside access. Good value and excellent position for early morning photography along the water.
A City Made for Vegetarians & Chocolate Lovers
Biological markets all over the city offer sustainably sourced veggies, fish, and cheeses. In 2009, Ghent became the first European City to declare an official vegetarian day in a full-on effort to combat climate change.
Don't worry; there are tons of Chocolate and French Fries just in case you want to indulge
For Chocolate lovers, you will be very, very happy in Ghent. There are so many beautiful chocolate shops like Van Hoorebeke. It is a MUST to go into these shops and see and smell the wonderful chocolates. Their creativity is outstanding, and the taste is even better. We were lucky to be in Ghent for Easter, where there are so many incredible Easter Chocolates to sample.
The one other thing that you HAVE to try in Belgium is the French Fries or Frites. Belgian frites are always thick-cut, made with floury Bintje potatoes, and double-cooked. They're first pre-fried at a lower heat and then briefly deep-fried at a much higher heat just before serving.
One of the places we tried that must have had dozens of variations of Frites was Frites Atelier. They, of course, have simple fries, but they also have combinations such as Arabic Baba & Feta, Parmesan & Basil, Indo Peanut, and sauces like (Mayo, Chefs Ketchup, Deep Truffle, French Bearnaise, Lovely Andalouse, and Samurai). It is really something not to miss.
Where to Eat
Dining Options
Vrijmoed — A Michelin-starred restaurant offering innovative Belgian cuisine with a modern twist. One of the finest dining experiences in Ghent. Book well in advance.
De Graslei: Located along the canal, this restaurant offers traditional Flemish dishes and stunning views directly over the water.
The House of Eliott: Known for its seafood, especially the lobster, this wonderfully quirky restaurant is a Ghent institution. The décor is theatrical, the lobster is excellent, and the experience is memorable.
Pakhuis: A stylish brasserie and bar in a beautifully converted 19th-century warehouse. Good for lunch or dinner, with an eclectic menu and a buzzing atmosphere that captures the energy of Ghent's creative character.
De Superette: Bakery and restaurant concept on Geldmunt. Good for brunch or a casual meal. Verify current status before visiting as hours and availability can change.
Coffee Shops
Café Labath: A cozy neighborhood spot with excellent specialty coffee. One of Ghent's most consistently praised cafés among locals.
OR Coffee Bar: Known for its specialty coffee and minimalist design, it's a favorite among locals and travelers.
Simon Says: A charming café with a retro vibe, serving delicious coffee and pastries.
Getting Around Ghent
The city center is car-free, so it is tailor-made for pedestrians. Here is a walking guide to the city. I would definitely recommend staying in the city center on foot. From our hotel, you can see most of the interesting sites within a 5 to 10-minute walk. Uber and Bolt services are available, but local taxis or public transport is often more convenient and economical.
Photography Gear Recommendations
A full-frame mirrorless body: Canon EOS R5 Mark II, Sony A7R V, or Nikon Z8
A wide-angle lens of 15-35mm to be able to photograph the Churches and City Streets
A medium telephoto, such as 70-200mm. This will come in handy when you need to zoom in on the subject.
A good, sturdy tripod so you can take photos at sunrise and sunset.
Neutral-density filters (3, 6, and 10). You will be shooting near water a lot, so there are lots of opportunities for long exposures. So, having an ND filter is a good idea.
What to Photograph in Ghent
There is more to photograph in Ghent than you might think at first.
It is a very photogenic city that is easy to get around, and most of the photography locations are only a few minutes apart.
Gravensteen Medieval Castle
In the middle of Ghent, you will find the Gravensteen Castle. This is a must-see medieval fortress. Also known as the “Castle of the Count,” this 12th-century stone castle has it all, including a moat, turrets, and arrow slits. Built originally as a fortress, it has been used as a courthouse, prison, and, strangely, even a cotton factory.
Gravensteen Castle
Along the River Leie (Lys)
Ghent’s city center is located along the River Leie, and it is a charming stretch of river and between St Michael’s Bridge and Grasbrug. As we wandered around the city, we really enjoyed walking along both the River Leie and the offshoot stretch of water named River Lieve. You will also find lots of restaurants, ice cream shops, and cafes in this area.
Saint Michael’s Bridge and Saint Michael's Church
My favorite spot in Ghent is Saint Michael’s Bridge, which is 50 meters from the 1898 Post Hotel.
On the top of the bridge, you have a breath-taking cityscape of the most beautiful towers of Ghent. (Belfort, Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, and Saint Nicolas Church). I would recommend taking photos of both sunset and sunrise.
The building of St. Michael’s Church started around 1440 and continued into the 16th century. Due to religious conflicts, construction stopped until the 17th Century.
St. Nicholas' Church (Sint-Niklaaskerk)
Ghent has three towers that dominate the city skyline, and St. Nicholas’ Church is one of them. The church is located just 50 meters from our hotel, and I would highly recommend going inside as well. You will find an impressive organ built by the French organ builder Aristide Cavaillé-Coll.
Belfry of Ghent (Het Belfort van Gent)
The second of the “Three Towers” is the Belfry of Ghent, which is the middle of the three. It’s a 91-meter-tall medieval tower constructed in the 14th century. Over the years, the Belfry was used as a lookout tower and, more famously, the city’s bell tower, which kept time for the locals for many years. You can take the stairs to the top of the tower if you are adventurous.
Saint Bavo Cathedral (Sint Baafskathedraal)
Last but not least of the Three Towers is Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, which stands just two meters shorter than the Belfry of Ghent. Although construction began on this Gothic church in 1274, it was not completed until the 16th century.
Korenlei
When you descend from Saint Michael's Bridge, you end up on the Korenlei. Here, you have a perfect view of the 3 towers from a different angle.
Lievekaai
The Lievekaai is a bit more hidden in the center and is, therefore, less known among tourists. It is a charming and peaceful location where you can enjoy sitting under the majestic weeping willows on a beautiful day.
Graffiti straat – Graffiti street
If you like Graffiti, then stop by Werregaren Street in the center of Ghent. It is also known as graffiti street. This is an alley where graffiti artists let their creativity run free. You will find the most remarkable and original street art.
Final Thoughts
Ghent feels like a city that quietly surprises you. At first glance, it looks like a classic medieval postcard. Canals. Steeples. Stone guild houses lined up perfectly along the water. But the longer you stay, the more personality it reveals.
What I love about Ghent is the balance. It has the beauty of Bruges, but with more edge and energy. Street art lives comfortably beside Gothic cathedrals. Students fill the cafés. Locals bike past centuries-old buildings as if it is the most normal thing in the world.
For photographers, Ghent is about contrast and timing. Sunrise along the Graslei and Korenlei is calm and reflective. The water becomes a mirror. At night, the city transforms. Thoughtful lighting highlights towers and bridges without overwhelming them. Blue hour here is magic. Use the canal as a leading line. Frame St. Nicholas’ Church, the Belfry, and Saint Bavo’s Cathedral in one layered composition. Then move closer and focus on details, textured stone, reflections, and silhouettes on bridges.
If you enjoyed this Photography and Travel Guide to Ghent, you can explore my other Photography and Travel Guides here, including my guide to Bruges , which makes the perfect companion trip.
If you are interested in joining one of my photography workshops, you can find the details through the link. You can also follow along on Instagram, Facebook, or subscribe to my newsletter for more travel photography tips and behind-the-scenes insight.
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