It wasn't easy to decide whether I would share this spot with you guys or not. But you will love Ghent even more if you've seen the city from the calm and quiet places, so why not.
When you're in Ghent, the chances are that you're going to visit the Gravensteen (Castle of the Counts). The castle partially surrounded by water is right in the city center, which is very unique in Europe. If you just want to see the outside, you'll have a nice view from the Sint-Veerleplein or on the bridge next to the caste. But the most amazing view is from the water. Especially now the renovation, which took several years, is almost finished.
Actually the spot I'm about to reveal to you isn't a view from the water, but from the waterside. Go to the middle of the Sint-Widostraat and you'll have access to a unique view of the castle. If you're lucky you might be all alone and the romance can grow. At night the castle is beautifully illuminated, especially now in wintertime, although the view by daylight is amazing too. I can't show you everything on the picture with this article, you'll have to see it for yourself. And enjoy.
Sint Widostraat
€
free
Explore Ghent like a local with Spotted by Locals - discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Ghent guide.
"MSK" in Ghent, or Museum voor Schone Kunsten (fine arts) doesn't look so big from the outside. For me, a walk there is the perfect Sunday afternoon...
By
"Citadelpark" in Ghent, only 800m from Sint-Pieters station, is the oldest and biggest park in the city - the perfect place for picnics and outdoor games.
By
"Chocolatier Van Hoorebeke" in Ghent is a shop run by my family that specialises in Belgian pralines, or chocolate! Do try our Brasil mix...
By
"Le Bal Infernal" in Ghent is a used book cafe where you go inside, admire the beautiful interior and switch the books with one you have already!
By
"Damberd" is the best example of that they call a 'Belgisch bruin café' in Ghent and one of its oldest bards. Very popular with the jazz crowd!
By
"Yoga-on-call" is a contemporary yoga studio in the heart of Ghent. All the teachers are enthusiastic and helpful and speak English. I'm always energized.
By
"Simon Says" in Ghent is more than a coffee bar. They offer breakfast, lunch and great cakes. I don't like coffee but it's said that theirs is the best.
By
"Rococo" in Ghent's very cozy old neighborhood Patershol is also a cozy and romantic bar. It's known among locals as 'Betty'. Have some 'liquer d'amour'...
By
"Portus Ganda" is one of the four marinas of Ghent. Its history goes back to the very basis of the city and is my favourite spot - I feel connected here...
By
"BOON" is the most beautiful lunch bar in Ghent and already my all-time favorite lunch place! It is mostly vegetarian. Try the rhubarb soda, trust me.
By
"The Virgin", a little fresco was revealed on November 18, 2014 in Ghent. I first followed the reaction of Pierre Pierlala, who called it an 'enlarged stamp'
By
112 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the crowd & travel slow 🐌
✓ 112 Insider Tips from our local Spotters