Ghent is a city in the East Flanders province of Belgium with a population of around 260,000 inhabitants. It was historically one of the wealthiest and most influential cities in Europe and has a rich cultural history. The city is well connected with the European mainland, with convenient rail and road links.
1. Ghent parks and places for a walk on a first date
The perfect way to get to know one another is to take a relaxed stroll and appreciate your date’s company. Ghent 41045 offers spectacular parks and sights to enjoy a romantic walk. You can visit the Graslei harbour at the banks of the Leie river or the Ter Vesten Park, a lovely green area with a number of monuments such as the 13th century Gravensteen Castle, the Belfort and St Bavo’s Cathedral. The Citadel Park is a great destination if you want to enjoy a stroll in beautiful nature, with a unique view of the city. Another lovely spot is the Bathemsestraat, a picturesque street with cobblestones and a variety of shops, cafés and restaurants.
2. Places for a coffee date in Ghent
Ghent is never short of charming cafés for a romantic coffee date. The Heilig Hartplein is the largest public space in Ghent, a place to watch the world go by with a nice cup of coffee in a chilled atmosphere. If you’re looking for a traditional Belgian café, then Café Den Kornuit is the place to go. Unwind in Café New York for a relaxing coffee date and delightful views of the Graslei Harbour. Lastly, the Patershol area is perfect for a more intimate setting, with its quaint cobblestone streets, vintage stores and small cafés that will make you feel at home.
3. Ghent galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit on a date
Ghent’s cultural attractions make it an ideal destination for a first date. You can choose to explore the construction techniques of the Middle Ages and the Renaissance at the STAM - City Museum of Ghent, visit the artistic and cultural collection at the Museum of Fine Arts, or admire the works at the SMAK - Contemporary Art Museum. The Gravensteen Castle, St Bavo’s Cathedral and the Belfry of Ghent are some of the most important historic buildings in the city. Additionally, Ghent’s many art galleries, such as the Jan De Vaerst Gallery, will excite you and your date with their interesting exhibitions.
4. Live music and entertainment to invite your date to in Ghent
Ghent offers a variety of live music and entertainment for a date night. Amongst the popular venues are the Pieter Pourbusstraat, a traditional music hall with some of the best live bands in Belgium. The Minard Theatre offers a variety of concerts and cultural events, while the I Love Techno Festival is a great option for your electronic music-loving dates. Vooruit, with its unique cabaret style setting, offers some of the best international and local shows in the city.
5. Ghent pubs, bars or restaurants for a first date drink or food
The city boasts many pubs and bars for a casual first date drink or food. The Waterhuis aan De Bierkant, located at the banks of the canal, is a great spot to relax and take in the amazing riverside views. The beer-lovers will be excited to discover the Monk, a hidden beer temple that offers some of the best craft beers in town. Café Belge, with its Belgian-style interior and outdoor terrace, is a great spot for some delicious cocktails. If you’re looking for a more vibrant atmosphere, the Graffiti Bar and Bokkedoorns are the places to go.
6. Other date ideas to try in Ghent
Ghent also offers a range of activities for a memorable first date. You can take a romantic boat ride at the Graslei harbour, chill at the dunes in the nature area of the Begijnhof or take a hot air balloon in the nearby town of Bruges. You can also cycle around the city with your date and admire Ghent’s beautiful architecture. There is no shortage of outdoor activities in the city such as hiking, climbing, Krampen Disc Golf and canoeing, to name a few.
