Enchanting Ghent Nights: Unforgettable Experiences in Belgium’s Hidden Gem

Greetings, fellow travelers! Journeying Jack here, back with another exciting edition of Suitcase Stories. Today, we’re diving into the enchanting world of Ghent, a city that truly comes alive when the sun goes down. If you’re planning a trip to this charming Belgian gem, you’re in for a treat as I unveil my top picks for things to do in Ghent at night.

As the day turns to dusk, Ghent’s medieval architecture and picturesque canals are illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere that begs to be explored. Whether you’re a night owl, a culture vulture, or simply looking for a memorable evening, there’s no shortage of things to do in Ghent at night. So, without further ado, let’s embark on this nocturnal adventure and discover the best things to do in Ghent at night!

Discover Ghent’s Vibrant Nightlife Scene

If you’re looking for things to do in Ghent at night, you’re in luck! The city has a vibrant nightlife scene that caters to all tastes and preferences. Here are some of the top things to do in Ghent at night:

Enjoy a Night Out at the Graslei and Korenlei

The Graslei and Korenlei are two picturesque quays in the heart of Ghent that come alive at night. The area is lined with bars, restaurants, and cafes, making it the perfect place to enjoy a night out with friends or a romantic evening with your partner. You can sit outside and enjoy a drink while taking in the stunning views of the illuminated medieval buildings that line the quays.

Visit the Ghent Light Festival

If you’re lucky enough to be in Ghent during the Ghent Light Festival, you’re in for a treat. The festival takes place every three years and sees the city transformed into a magical wonderland of light installations and projections. The festival takes place at night, so it’s the perfect opportunity to explore the city after dark.

Explore the City’s Bars and Clubs

Ghent has a thriving bar and club scene that caters to all tastes and preferences. Whether you’re into live music, cocktails, or craft beer, you’re sure to find a bar or club that suits your style. Some of the top spots to check out include the Charlatan, the Hot Club de Gand, and the Trollekelder.

Take a Nighttime Canal Cruise

One of the best ways to see Ghent at night is by taking a canal cruise. The city’s canals are illuminated at night, creating a magical atmosphere that’s perfect for a romantic evening or a fun night out with friends. You can sit back and relax as you glide past the city’s stunning landmarks and historic buildings.

Enjoy a Nighttime Stroll

Finally, one of the simplest but most enjoyable things to do in Ghent at night is to take a stroll through the city’s streets. The city is safe and easy to navigate, so you can explore at your own pace. You’ll be able to take in the stunning architecture and historic landmarks that make Ghent such a special place.

Indulge in Delectable Late-Night Eats

When the sun sets in Ghent, the city comes alive with a vibrant nightlife. From cozy cafes to trendy bars, there’s no shortage of things to do in Ghent at night. But what about satisfying your late-night cravings? Fear not, because Ghent has plenty of options for foodies who want to indulge in delectable late-night eats.

Discover Ghent’s Night Markets

One of the best things to do in Ghent at night is to explore the city’s night markets. These markets offer a wide range of street food, snacks, and drinks that are perfect for satisfying your hunger pangs. The Friday Market and the Vrijdagmarkt are two popular night markets in Ghent that are open until late at night. Here, you can find everything from Belgian waffles to falafel wraps, and even local craft beers.

Savor Belgian Fries

No trip to Ghent is complete without trying the city’s famous Belgian fries. These fries are thicker and crispier than regular fries and are served with a variety of sauces. One of the best places to try Belgian fries in Ghent is Frituur Jozef, a local institution that has been serving up delicious fries since 1957. Open until midnight on weekends, this place is a must-visit for anyone looking for a late-night snack.

Enjoy a Late-Night Dinner

If you’re looking for a more substantial meal, Ghent has plenty of restaurants that are open late at night. De Frietketel is a popular spot for burgers and fries, while De Superette is a great option for pizza and pasta. For something more upscale, head to Pakhuis, a trendy restaurant that serves Belgian cuisine with a modern twist. With its cozy atmosphere and delicious food, Pakhuis is the perfect place to unwind after a long day of exploring Ghent.

In conclusion, Ghent has plenty of options for foodies who want to indulge in delectable late-night eats. Whether you’re in the mood for street food, Belgian fries, or a sit-down dinner, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. So, the next time you’re wondering what to do in Ghent at night, remember to explore the city’s night markets, savor some Belgian fries, and enjoy a late-night dinner at one of Ghent’s many restaurants.

Explore the Illuminated Historic Landmarks

One of the best things to do in Ghent at night is to explore the city’s illuminated historic landmarks. The city is known for its stunning architecture and rich history, and at night, the buildings are beautifully lit up, creating a magical atmosphere.

Gravensteen Castle

Gravensteen Castle is a must-visit landmark in Ghent, especially at night. The castle dates back to the Middle Ages and is one of the best-preserved castles in Europe. The castle is beautifully illuminated at night, making it a perfect spot for a romantic evening stroll.

Saint Bavo’s Cathedral

Saint Bavo’s Cathedral is another iconic landmark in Ghent that is worth visiting at night. The cathedral is home to several masterpieces, including the famous Ghent Altarpiece. The cathedral’s exterior is beautifully lit up at night, creating a stunning sight.

The Belfry

The Belfry is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Ghent. The tower dates back to the 14th century and offers stunning views of the city. At night, the tower is beautifully illuminated, making it a perfect spot for a nighttime photo.

Exploring the illuminated historic landmarks is one of the top things to do in Ghent at night. Don’t miss the chance to experience the city’s rich history and stunning architecture in a magical nighttime setting.

Unwind with a Moonlit Canal Cruise

If you’re looking for a romantic and relaxing way to spend your evening in Ghent, a moonlit canal cruise is a must-do activity. It’s one of the most popular things to do in Ghent at night and for good reason.

As the sun sets, the city’s canals are illuminated by the soft glow of streetlights and the moon. You’ll be able to see the city’s stunning architecture and landmarks from a unique perspective.

There are several companies that offer canal cruises, but one of the best is the Ghent Boat Tour. Their boats are small and intimate, which makes for a more personal experience. The tour lasts about 40 minutes and takes you through the city’s historic center.

As you glide along the water, you’ll be able to see the Graslei and Korenlei, two of Ghent’s most picturesque streets. You’ll also pass by the Castle of the Counts, St. Michael’s Bridge, and the impressive St. Bavo’s Cathedral.

The tour guide will provide interesting commentary about the city’s history and architecture, making it a great way to learn more about Ghent.

So, if you’re looking for a peaceful and romantic way to spend your evening, a moonlit canal cruise is one of the best things to do in Ghent at night. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning views!

Experience Ghent’s Thriving Cultural Events

Ghent is a city that never sleeps, especially at night. There are plenty of cultural events that take place in the city after dark. Here are some of the best things to do in Ghent at night:

Attend a Concert or Show

Ghent has a thriving music and theater scene, with plenty of concerts and shows taking place at night. The Vooruit is a popular venue that hosts a variety of events, from indie rock concerts to dance performances. Another great venue is the Handelsbeurs, which is known for its classical music concerts.

Visit a Museum

Many museums in Ghent stay open late on certain days of the week, giving visitors the chance to explore their collections after dark. The Museum of Fine Arts is open until 9 pm on Fridays, while the Design Museum stays open until 10 pm on Thursdays.

Take a Nighttime Walking Tour

Discover the city’s hidden gems and learn about its history on a nighttime walking tour. The Ghent by Night tour takes you through the city’s medieval streets and past its illuminated landmarks. You can also take a ghost tour to hear spooky stories about the city’s past.

Enjoy the Nightlife

Ghent has a lively nightlife scene, with plenty of bars and clubs to choose from. The Overpoortstraat area is popular with students and has a variety of bars and clubs that stay open late. The Vlasmarkt area is another great spot for nightlife, with a mix of bars and clubs playing different types of music.

No matter what your interests are, there are plenty of things to do in Ghent at night. So, put on your walking shoes and get ready to explore the city after dark!

Nighttime Shopping and Entertainment Hotspots

If you’re looking for things to do in Ghent at night, you’ll be pleased to know that the city has a vibrant nightlife scene. From shopping to entertainment, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the best nighttime hotspots to check out: