3-Day Luxury Escape to Ghent: An Epic Journey of Medieval Splendor
Ghent is a city that wears its history like a bespoke velvet cloak—rich, deep, and undeniably sophisticated. While often overshadowed by its neighbors, those on an Epic Journey recognize Ghent as the true hidden gem of Belgium, offering a more intimate and authentic Luxury Escape than the crowded streets of Bruges. This three-day journey is designed for the traveler who demands excellence, blending private access to world-renowned art with the finest culinary experiences Flanders has to offer.
From the moment you arrive via private transfer, you will be immersed in a landscape of soaring spires and shimmering canals. We have curated a selection of the most exclusive activities, ensuring that your time in this medieval masterpiece is spent in total comfort. Prepare to experience Ghent not just as a tourist, but as a guest of honor in one of Europe’s most beautifully preserved historic cities.
Day 1: Ghent, Belgium - Medieval Majesty and Private Waters
Luxury Arrival and Check-in at 1898 The Post
Begin your journey by checking into the city's most iconic boutique hotel. Housed in the former neo-Gothic post office building, the rooms offer stunning views of the Graslei and Korenlei. Start with a signature cocktail at 'The Cobbler' to toast to your arrival.
Gourmet Lunch at Belga Queen
Dine in a converted 13th-century grain storehouse. This restaurant combines architectural grandeur with contemporary Belgian cuisine. Focus on the fresh North Sea seafood and the extensive list of local craft beers served in crystal glassware.
Private Salon Boat Cruise
Escape the public tour boats and board a private, refurbished wooden salon boat. Sip on chilled Champagne as a personal guide navigates the Lys and Scheldt rivers, offering a unique vantage point of the guild houses and the Gravensteen castle.
Fine Dining at Vrijmoed
Experience the culinary artistry of Chef Michaël Vrijmoed at his two-Michelin-starred establishment. The tasting menu is a masterclass in seasonal flavors, frequently cited as one of the best dining experiences in all of Belgium.
Day 2: Ghent, Belgium - Sacred Art and Flemish Heritage
VIP Tour of the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb
Visit St. Bavo's Cathedral for a private or small-group viewing of the Ghent Altarpiece by the Van Eyck brothers. Use the augmented reality (AR) tour to see the intricate details of this 15th-century masterpiece before heading to the cathedral's crypt.
Artisan Lunch in the Patershol District
Wander into the winding cobblestone alleys of Patershol, the culinary heart of old Ghent. Enjoy a refined lunch at 'Roots', where the open kitchen serves up inventive dishes using only the highest quality local ingredients.
Museum of Fine Arts (MSK) Private Viewing
Head to the MSK, one of the oldest museums in Belgium. Arrange for a private gallery talk to explore the works of Bosch, Rubens, and Magritte without the usual museum chatter, focusing on the evolution of Flemish expressionism.
Opera Night at Vlaamse Opera Gent
Spend your evening in the opulent 19th-century opera house. Even if you don't stay for a full performance, the Lully, Foyer, and Redoute halls are architectural marvels of the French Second Empire style, perfect for a sophisticated evening out.
Day 3: Ghent, Belgium - Abbey Gardens and Boutique Curations
St. Peter’s Abbey and Secret Gardens
Explore the sprawling Sint-Pietersabdij. After touring the refectory and the library, spend a quiet hour in the abbey’s vineyard and lavender gardens—a tranquil oasis that feels miles away from the city center.
Bistro Luxury at Pakhuis
Dine in a stunning industrial-chic setting. Pakhuis is a former warehouse turned into a high-end brasserie known for its Bresse chicken and fresh oysters. It is the quintessential spot for a long, leisurely Belgian lunch.
Luxury Shopping on Brabantdam
Avoid the high-street chains and focus on the Brabantdam and Koestraat areas. Here you will find high-end Belgian designers, luxury chocolate ateliers like 'Yuzu', and curated concept stores offering bespoke home decor.
Farewell Dinner at Oak
Conclude your luxury escape at Oak, a Michelin-starred restaurant run by Chef Marcelo Ballardin. The intimate setting and global influence on Flemish ingredients provide a memorable final taste of Ghent’s vibrant food scene.
Best Time & Weather
The ideal time to visit Ghent for a luxury experience is during the late Spring (May to June) or early Autumn (September to October). During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant for boat tours and walking, and the city is less crowded than during the peak summer months. If you enjoy festive charm, December is magical as the city lights up with one of Belgium's most sophisticated winter markets, though you should prepare for crisp, chilly air.
Currency & Money
Ghent uses the Euro (€). As a luxury traveler, you will find that credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, and American Express) are widely accepted in all high-end hotels, boutiques, and Michelin-starred restaurants. Tipping is inclusive in the bill in Belgium, but for exceptional service at premium establishments, a gesture of 5-10% is customary and highly appreciated.
Getting Around
The historic center of Ghent is a large car-free zone, making it exceptionally pleasant for walking. For longer distances or transfers between districts, we recommend using the city’s efficient tram system or booking private car services. Taxis are readily available at designated stands near the Korenmarkt and Sint-Pieters Station. For a truly premium experience, most luxury hotels can arrange a private driver for your entire stay.
