Gravensteen
Explore the imposing medieval Castle of the Counts in the heart of the historic centre.
Flanders · Belgium
Ghent Ferry &
Ghent Ferry &
Destination Guide
Explore Ghent’s medieval towers, canals and lively historic centre, using active Channel or North Sea ferry ports as practical gateways into Belgium.
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Discover Ghent
Medieval architecture, waterside guildhouses and a lively Flemish city reached easily from active ferry gateways
Ghent combines a large living city with one of Belgium’s most atmospheric historic centres. Medieval towers rise above the Leie and Scheldt rivers, while the pedestrian core is compact enough to explore comfortably on foot.
The Graslei and Korenlei quays provide the classic waterside view of old guildhouses. Nearby Saint Michael’s Bridge frames several of the city’s major landmarks in one panorama.
Gravensteen, the Castle of the Counts, brings fortress architecture into the heart of the centre, while Saint Bavo’s Cathedral is internationally important as the home of the Ghent Altarpiece.
Canal cruises provide another perspective on the historic fabric, and the city’s strong food, café and cultural scene makes Ghent easy to enjoy beyond the headline sights.
Ghent itself is not a conventional passenger-car ferry port. Travellers arriving by sea normally continue from active Channel gateways such as Dunkirk or Calais, or use the Harwich–Hook of Holland route before travelling onward through Belgium.
City highlights
What to see while you are in Ghent
Ghent’s major sights cluster around the historic riverfront, making it one of Europe’s easiest medieval cities to explore on foot.
Graslei & Korenlei
Walk the celebrated river quays lined with historic guildhouses and lively terraces.
Saint Bavo’s Cathedral
Visit the cathedral that houses the world-famous Ghent Altarpiece.
Belfry of Ghent
Climb or visit the medieval civic tower for a classic city-centre landmark and viewpoint.
Saint Michael’s Bridge
Pause for one of the best panoramas across Ghent’s towers and historic waterfront.
Canal boat tour
See the medieval city from the water and learn how the rivers shaped Ghent’s development.
Tours & experiences
Things to Do in Ghent
Browse medieval walking tours, canal cruises, food experiences and day trips in and around Ghent.
Tours and activities displayed in this section are supplied through Viator. Availability, descriptions and prices are provided by the activity supplier and can change.
Arriving or departing by ferry
Passenger-ferry gateways for Ghent
Foot passengers should compare the complete ferry-plus-rail or coach journey because Channel ferry terminals are strongly vehicle-oriented. Ghent itself has excellent national rail connections once you reach Belgium.
Dunkirk and Calais are practical Channel ferry ports for many motorists travelling from Britain to Ghent. From either port, continue by road into Belgium. The Harwich–Hook of Holland route is another useful option when a North Sea crossing suits the itinerary better.
Ghent’s inland port is commercially important, but the city is not currently served by a conventional long-distance passenger-car ferry for travellers arriving from Britain. FerryEU therefore treats Ghent as an onward destination from established passenger gateways.
Passenger gateway Dunkirk or Calais for the shortest Channel approach; Hook of Holland for a North Sea alternative
Directions to a gateway Open Dunkirk Ferry Terminal in Google Maps
Channel routes Dover–Dunkirk and Dover–Calais provide frequent short-sea options for motorists
Foot passengers Check operator acceptance and onward public transport before booking a Channel crossing
Vehicle travel Driving from a Channel ferry is often the simplest way to reach Ghent
North Sea option Harwich–Hook of Holland can suit travellers approaching Belgium from eastern England
Plan your stay
Getting around Ghent
Ghent’s historic centre is compact and pedestrian-friendly, with trams and strong rail links for longer journeys around Belgium.
Walk the historic centre
The main medieval sights, riverfront and shopping streets are close together and largely pedestrian-friendly.
Use Belgian rail services
Gent-Sint-Pieters has frequent trains to Brussels, Bruges, Antwerp and other Belgian cities.
Find Ghent rail tickets here...Use trams for outer districts
Ghent’s tram and bus network is useful between the main station, historic centre and neighbourhoods beyond walking distance.
Stay in Ghent
Find Ghent Accommodation
Stay in the historic centre or near Gent-Sint-Pieters
The historic centre is ideal for atmosphere and sightseeing; staying nearer the main station is practical for multi-city Belgian rail trips.
Common planning questions
Ghent ferry & destination FAQs
Does Ghent have a passenger ferry terminal?
No. Ghent is a major inland commercial port but is not currently a conventional long-distance passenger-car ferry gateway.
Which ferry port is best for Ghent from the UK?
Dunkirk or Calais are practical for many motorists; Harwich–Hook of Holland can suit journeys from eastern England.
How do I continue from Dunkirk or Calais to Ghent?
Motorists can drive into Belgium, while foot passengers should plan rail or coach connections as part of the complete journey.
What are the best things to do in Ghent?
Gravensteen, Graslei and Korenlei, Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, the Belfry and a canal cruise are major highlights.
Is Ghent easy to explore without a car?
Yes. The historic centre is walkable and public transport is excellent.
Can I reach Ghent by train?
Yes. Gent-Sint-Pieters has frequent services across Belgium and international connections via Brussels or Antwerp.
Is Ghent a good day trip from Bruges or Brussels?
Yes. Frequent trains make Ghent an easy day trip, although an overnight stay gives more time for the evening atmosphere.
How long should I spend in Ghent?
Two days is ideal for the main sights and museums; three days gives a more relaxed visit and time for nearby Belgian cities.
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