Free self-guided walk · Ghent

Three towers and the Graslei

A free self-guided walk in Ghent, past its three medieval towers and along the Graslei to the Gravensteen castle.

Distance
1 km
Walking time
14 min
Allow
About 1.5 hours with stops
Stops
5

Open the route in Google MapsGhent city guide

About this walk

This walk covers the heart of Ghent on foot.

The Graslei is liveliest on summer evenings.

  • Terrain: Flat and cobbled.
  • Best time: Late afternoon into evening.

Route map

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Route and stop positions © OpenStreetMap contributors. North is up.

The stops

  1. St Bavo's Cathedral

    Start at the cathedral of the Ghent Altarpiece.

  2. Belfry of Ghent

    The medieval bell tower.

  3. St Nicholas' Church

    The third of the three towers.

  4. Graslei

    The guildhalls along the river.

  5. Gravensteen

    Finish at the castle.

Tips

  • The Ghent Altarpiece needs a ticket.
  • St Michael's Bridge gives the classic view of the three towers.
  • The castle charges entry.

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Sources and review date

This walk was last reviewed on 2026-10-28. Distance and walking time come from OpenStreetMap's walking router and don't include time at stops. Opening hours and access change; please check before you go.