What is more beautiful, Ghent or Bruges?

To sum up Bruges vs Ghent…if you're looking for a fairytale town, picturesque water canals, cobblestoned streets, cozy restaurants with excellent Belgian cuisine, enough sights to keep you busy for one to two full days, and some incredible hotels, Bruges is the best bet for you.

Should I go to Ghent or Bruges?

The choice ultimately depends on your preferences: Ghent provides a more modern, eclectic experience, while Bruges immerses you in a timeless, romantic setting. Large crowds included.

Why is Bruges called the dead city?

Bruges became impoverished and gradually faded in importance. The symbolist novelist George Rodenbach made the city into a character in his novel Bruges-la-Morte, meaning "Bruges-the-dead", which was adapted into Erich Wolfgang Korngold's opera, Die tote Stadt (The Dead City).

Can you visit Bruges and Ghent the same day?

Although it's true that you could easily spend an entire day in each one of these cities, if your time is limited, it is possible to see the best of Bruges and Ghent in just one day. This is a great day trip from Brussels.

Is Ghent a beautiful city?

There are endless waterways lined with gorgeous buildings

If you're looking for Insta-worthy photos then Ghent has plenty of opportunities. The canals wind their way around the city and are lined with some gorgeous buildings.

Belgium BRUGES VS GHENT: Unique Differences You Need To Know

Which is bigger, Ghent or Bruges?

Although Ghent is a much bigger city than Bruges, it also has a compact historical core. It's easy to visit many sites in a loop around the city center. Venturing beyond the historical, you'll also find street art, museums, and great places to eat. This list is just a small taste of what you can expect.

What is the picturesque city in Belgium?

Dinant, located on the banks of the Meuse River, is arguably Belgium's most picturesque city. Along the riverfront, you'll discover pastel-hued houses and the Gothic-style Notre Dame de Dinant in front of a dramatic cliff face. On the clifftop, a historic citadel provides a striking contrast to the quaint city below.

What is Ghent famous for?

The Saint Nicholas Church, Belfry and Saint Bavo's Cathedral are known as the three towers of Ghent. This trio defines the skyline of this lively but cosy art city. They make for more than just a pretty picture, though. The Belfry has symbolised the city's prosperity and independence since the Middle Ages.

Is Ghent cheaper than Bruges?

Ghent is more affordable than Bruges and will feel less touristy (especially during high season... most notably the summer months). If you're still debating Ghent or Bruges, feel free to leave a comment below on what type of trip you want and I'll help you out!

How long do I need in Ghent?

After visiting Ghent a couple of times, I would recommend at least 24 hours to really soak in all the history, culture, and relaxed vibes of this gothic city. Ghent was the largest city in Europe behind Paris during the Medieval period.

Why is Jesus' blood in Bruges?

Relic of the Holy Blood

Legend has it that Count Thierry of Alsace, after an adventurous Second Crusade, brought the Holy Blood to Bruges in 1150. He received the relic as a gift from Jerusalem, as a treasure for the city and a sign of his heroism.

What famous movie was filmed in Bruges?

In Bruges is a 2008 black comedy-drama crime thriller film directed and written by Martin McDonagh in his feature-length debut. It stars Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson as two London-based Irish hitmen hiding in Bruges, with Ralph Fiennes as their boss. The film is set and was filmed in Bruges, Belgium.

Why is Bruges so famous?

Bruges is known for being one of the most beautiful cities in Belgium—if not all of Europe. The entire historic center is one big UNESCO World Heritage Site. That means you'll find strikingly pretty architecture, some of which dates back to the Middle Ages.

Where is the most picturesque part of Bruges?

Rozenhoedkaai (Rosary Quay)

Welcome to the city's most popular spot for photography, a centuries-old Instagrammable hotspot.

Is there a lot to do in Ghent?

Top Attractions in Ghent

Historic castle showcasing medieval arms and armor with entertaining audio guides, set amidst well-kept grounds and offering panoramic views. Historic waterfront promenade with cobbled streets, scenic canal views, and a lively array of cafes. Ideal for leisurely strolls and dining by the water.

Is Ghent older than Bruges?

History & Architecture

Ghent was founded in 630 AD when St Amandus constructed an abbey where the Lys and Scheldt rivers merge. Whereas Bruges was likely populated during the Ancient Roman era. However, the city's name first appears in the history books during the 9th century.

Which city is best to visit in Belgium?

Ghent. Located between Brussels and Bruges, Ghent encapsulates the best of Belgian cities: winding canals, medieval architecture, enviable museums and cobblestone alleyways filled with shops and restaurants.

What is the most picturesque country?

Should I visit Ghent or Antwerp?

In terms of population, Antwerp is twice the size of Ghent so if you are looking for a city with an intimate feel, Ghent might suit you better. Ghent is also more picturesque than Antwerp. However, if you are looking for lots of things to do and the buzz of a big city, Antwerp ticks these boxes.

Why is Ghent so famous?

In the Late Middle Ages Ghent became one of the largest and richest cities of northern Europe, with some 50,000 people in 1300. After the late 16th century Ghent became a less important city, resulting in an extremely well-preserved historic centre, making Ghent a popular tourist destination.

Is Ghent more Dutch or French?

There're two main languages in Belgium: french and dutch, but there's a small german-speaking community as well. In Ghent, people speak “flemish” which is basically dutch but with a bit different pronunciation and some other words here and there.

Is Ghent close to Bruges?

Travel from Ghent to Bruges (Brugge) by train in 22 minutes

Around 76 trains per day travel the 25 miles (40 km) between these two destinations. Direct trains are usually available every day on the route to Bruges (Brugge). Trains on this route are operated by SNCB, the national rail operator in Belgium.

Is ghent or Bruges better?

If we absolutely had to choose between Ghent and Bruges when visiting Belgium, we'd pick Bruges. The absolute beauty of the historic town center, our lovely canal ride, and our many walks through the city charmed us completely.

What not to miss in Bruges?

Why would anyone go to Bruges?

Bruges is famous for its preserved medieval architecture, winding canals, and cobblestone streets. Like some of its Dutch counterparts, Bruges is renowned for its canals. A major European trading hub from the 13th to the 15th century, the waterways have long been central to the development and connectivity of the city.