Day Trip to Ghent

The Castle of the Counts is an imposing medieval castle high on a hill overlooking the city center. Graslei is a picturesque street with a group of 'townhouses' built between the 1200s and 1600s. St. Bavo's Cathedral and the Belfry are two imposing structures which give the city center its character. Don't forget about Belgian chocolate, truly the best in the world.

Quick Tips:

Don't worry about finding accomodations in Ghent. It is only a 30 min. train ride from Brussels and you'll do much better finding a hotel there.

Best Way To Get Around:

Trains leave from Brussels hourly and the journey costs around round trip. From the main train station, Gent Sint-Pieters, tram #1 will take you directly to the city center. The tram ride affords an opportunity to view modern Ghent. Once at the city center, all of the major attractions are within easy walking distance.

Excellent hotel in central Brussels. Conveniently located to attractions and subway station. Free buffet breakfast included with room which is the best I have had anywhere.

St. Bavo's Cathedral is a beautiful structure. It compares favorably to many of the great churches of Europe. In addition to the stained glass and normal church fare, it contains two significant art works. The best known is probably 'The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb' by Jan Van Eyck. The other is 'The Conversion of St. Bavo' by Rubens.

A very picturesque row of houses dating from as far back as the 1200's are located on this street. The houses are bordered by a canal in front which further adds to the visual appeal. Excellent opportunity for a memorable photograph.

Imposing medieval fortress perched high on a hill overlooking the city center dating from the late 1100's. The castle affords an excellent view of the city center. There is also a medieval torture museum located inside.