Ghent was one of the biggest cities in Western Europe at the end of the Middle Ages. Today it is the fourth biggest city of Belgium and one of the most beautiful ones. Nearby Bruges may be cuter, but Ghent is more of a real city, and has better museums, better nightlife and restaurants and is not that touristy.
In a unique way Gent has managed to preserve its medieval power while keeping up with the times. The city center alone is a showcase of medieval Flemish wealth and commercial success.
The tourist will not have eyes enough to admire the awesome architectural wealth, which offers a splendid combination of impressiveness and idyllic charm of the proud and (in former times) often rebellious city of Ghent.
Modern Ghent certainly cannot be overlooked either. The city has an important harbor, thanks to the canal Gent-Terneuzen which allows sea-going vessels to bring their products to the city and its industrial hinterland.
Ghent was one of the biggest cities in Western Europe at the end of the Middle Ages. Today it is the fourth biggest city of Belgium and one of the most beautiful ones. Nearby 