6-Day Family Adventure Guide to Ghent: Classic Routes for All Ages
Ghent is a hidden gem in Belgium that strikes the perfect balance between medieval grandeur and a vibrant, modern atmosphere. For families following our Family Travel Guides style, Ghent offers a more relaxed and accessible alternative to the bustling streets of Brussels or the often-crowded canals of Bruges. With its pedestrian-friendly center and stroller-accessible paths along the water, it is an ideal destination for those traveling with little ones.
This 6-day classic route focuses on the heart of the city, ensuring you see the iconic landmarks while leaving plenty of room for playground breaks, waffle stops, and slow-paced exploration. By staying within the city’s well-connected districts, you will minimize travel fatigue and maximize quality time exploring one of Europe's most beautiful historic centers.
Day 1: Ghent, Belgium - The Medieval Heart
The Belfry of Ghent
Start your journey at this UNESCO World Heritage site. Unlike many medieval towers, the Ghent Belfry has an elevator, making it perfectly accessible for families with small children or strollers to enjoy the panoramic city views.
Lunch at Korenmarkt
Enjoy a relaxed lunch in the city's main square. The area is entirely pedestrianized, allowing kids to move around safely while you enjoy a bowl of traditional Gentse Waterzooi.
St. Bavo's Cathedral
Visit the home of the world-famous Adoration of the Mystic Lamb. The cathedral is spacious and awe-inspiring for older children, with accessible ramps for those with strollers.
Graslei and Korenlei Stroll
Finish your first day with a gentle walk along the scenic herb and corn quays. The sunset reflections on the water are magical and the flat paths are perfect for an evening pushchair stroll.
Day 2: Ghent, Belgium - Art and Green Spaces
Museum of Fine Arts (MSK)
Located on the edge of Citadelpark, this museum offers a quiet, climate-controlled environment that is very stroller-friendly. It houses a vast collection of Flemish masters and modern art.
Picnic in Citadelpark
Take a break in the city's largest park. There are several well-maintained playgrounds where kids can burn off energy while parents relax under the ancient trees.
The World of Kina: The Garden
This is a must-visit for families. It is a museum specifically designed for children, featuring a beautiful botanical garden and interactive exhibits about nature and insects.
Dinner near Sint-Pietersstation
This area offers many family-oriented bistros that are less crowded than the tourist center, providing a more local and relaxed dining experience.
Day 3: Ghent, Belgium - Knights and Waterways
Gravensteen (Castle of the Counts)
A real medieval castle right in the city center. While the upper towers have stairs, the main courtyard and lower chambers are accessible. Kids will love the armor and the "castle" atmosphere.
Guided Boat Tour
Board a covered boat near the castle for a tour of the Lys river. It is a great way to see the city's history without having to walk, and most tour operators are happy to store strollers on the dock.
Patershol District Exploration
Wander through the narrow, car-free cobblestone streets of this historic neighborhood. Stop at a local bakery for some 'Cuberdons' (Ghent noses), a traditional local candy.
Dinner at a Pancake House
Ghent has several charming pancake houses that serve both savory and sweet options, which are always a hit with the younger travelers.
Day 4: Ghent, Belgium - Industry and Lights
Industriemuseum
Housed in an old cotton mill, this museum is surprisingly engaging for kids with its old printing presses and textile machinery. The elevator makes every floor accessible.
Vrijdagmarkt Square
Visit this historic square for a casual lunch. If you visit on a Friday, you'll catch the traditional market which is great for picking up fresh local fruit and snacks.
Dulle Griet (Great Cannon)
Take a quick photo stop at this massive 15th-century red cannon. It is located in a quiet corner near the water, perfect for a short rest break.
Ghent Illumination Walk
Ghent is famous for its award-winning lighting plan. Take a short evening stroll to see the buildings glow. It’s a peaceful way to end the day before the kids' bedtime.
Day 5: Ghent, Belgium - Recreation and Flavor
Blaarmeersen Sports and Recreation Park
Located on the outskirts but easily reachable by bus, this park features a swimming lake, large sandy beaches, and several playgrounds. It is the ultimate family relaxation spot.
Lakeside Cafe Lunch
Enjoy a casual lunch at the park's cafe, which offers simple, kid-friendly meals and plenty of space for strollers.
Groot Vleeshuis (Great Butcher's Hall)
Head back to the center to this stunning 15th-century hall. It now serves as a center for local East Flemish products. You can sample Ganda ham or local cheeses in an impressive setting.
Ghent City Brewery Gruut
A family-friendly brewery where they use a medieval spice mix instead of hops. They have a spacious interior and a relaxed vibe where children are welcome.
Day 6: Ghent, Belgium - Gardens and Graffiti
St. Peter's Abbey and Gardens
Explore the quiet corridors of the abbey and its beautiful vineyard and garden behind the building. It’s a serene spot for kids to run around safely away from traffic.
Lunch in the Arts Quarter
The area around the University and the Kunstkwartier has many affordable and trendy cafes that are used to catering to diverse groups.
Werregarenstraatje (Graffiti Street)
A colorful, ever-changing pedestrian alley where street art is legal. It’s a sensory delight for children and a great backdrop for family photos.
Farewell Dinner at Het Gouden Hoofd
Celebrate your final night at this local favorite. It is known for its high-quality food and welcoming atmosphere for families.
Best Time & Weather
The best time to visit Ghent with a family is during late spring (May to June) or early autumn (September). During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant for walking, and the city's parks are in full bloom. Summer (July and August) is beautiful but can be warmer and busier. If you visit in winter, the Ghent Christmas Market in December is a magical experience for children, though you should be prepared for chilly temperatures and occasional rain.
Currency & Money
Belgium uses the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, and Maestro) are widely accepted in almost all restaurants, shops, and museums in Ghent. However, it is always a good idea to carry a small amount of cash for smaller purchases at markets or for public toilets. Tipping is not mandatory in Belgium as service is included in the bill, but it is common to leave the small change or round up the bill for exceptional service.
Getting Around
Ghent is a highly walkable city, particularly in the large car-free historic center. For longer distances, the city has an excellent tram and bus network operated by De Lijn. Trams 1 and 4 are particularly useful for tourists. If you are traveling with a stroller, the modern low-floor trams are very easy to use. For a truly Belgian experience, you can also rent a bicycle with a child seat or a cargo bike, as the city is incredibly bike-friendly with dedicated lanes and clear signage.
