Gent
General Summary
Gent (also known as Ghent or Gand) is the third largest city in Belgium. Like Bruges (Brugge), it was once a flourishing textile-producing town. With the decline of the cloth trade in the 16th century, the city survived by turning its attention to the shipping industry. Then, when industrialisation followed in the 19th century, Gent’s status as one of the most prosperous cities in Belgium was assured.
Much less frequented by tourists than Antwerp or Bruges, Gent is a small, quiet and unassuming university town. It has all the key attractions of other popular Belgian cities: cobbled streets, canals and stunning medieval buildings and towers, but the relaxed and Bohemian atmosphere and compact, pedestrianised city centre make it much more pleasing for visitors who want to enjoy Belgium without the crowds. It’s the perfect destination for a peaceful weekend break.
Much less frequented by tourists than Antwerp or Bruges, Gent is a small, quiet and unassuming university town. It has all the key attractions of other popular Belgian cities: cobbled streets, canals and stunning medieval buildings and towers, but the relaxed and Bohemian atmosphere and compact, pedestrianised city centre make it much more pleasing for visitors who want to enjoy Belgium without the crowds. It’s the perfect destination for a peaceful weekend break.