Ghent is a perfectly preserved medieval city. It there are people and tourists everywhere. But it is smallish and stunning at every turn. I recommend staying in an old building. I stayed in a hostel that was made out of an old church but unfortunately I cannot remember the name.
Ghent is also full of repurposed old churches one of my favorite is Holy Food Market which is basically a gigantic food hall with everything and anything you could possible want.
Activities:
Walk through history and see what was once the largest port.
Visit the Castle of Gravensteen 12 euros entry for adults which was used to defend the city. It has very cool weapons displays and informations inside.
Check out the Cathedral and abby with free entry and levels of beauty!
Eat in small holes in the wall.
Chocolate!
French Fries OMG so amazing!
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