This is how you organize the best family activities during the autumn holiday in Ghent

One of the biggest advantages of Ghent is that almost everything can be discovered on foot. This makes the city manageable and ideal for families.

An absolute must-do activity is the Gravensteen, the medieval castle in the heart of the city. Here, children can immerse themselves in the lives of knights and damsels. The towers and secret passages complete the adventure. Choose the audio guide by Wouter Deprez or the Little Guide treasure hunt for a magical and unforgettable experience.

A visit to the STAM (City Museum) is also a must. Moreover, it is free to visit for children and young people up to the age of 18. With interactive installations and playful exhibitions, children learn more about the history of Ghent in a fun way. Read all about child-friendly activities at STAM in Ghent here.

For those who prefer to take to the water, there's the option of a boat trip via Gent Watertoerist. Various cruises on the Leie and Scheldt depart from the city center, always a hit and unforgettable for young adventurers.

Autumn is the perfect season to discover Ghent on foot. Besides the historical city center, you'll find surprisingly many green spots where autumn colors come fully into their own. Within walking distance of Van der Valk Hotel Gent lies the Liedermeerspark, a peaceful green oasis where children can freely collect chestnuts, acorns, and colorful leaves. Ideal for a relaxing walk or a playful autumn treasure hunt.

Want to explore more nature? Then the Bourgoyen-Ossemeersen nature reserve is an absolute must. This extensive nature reserve is known for its hiking trails, water birds, and stunning autumn landscapes. If you prefer to stay close to the historical center, you can visit the Koning Albertpark (Zuidpark) or the cozy Baudelopark, where you can escape the city's hustle and bustle among the colorful trees. This way, you effortlessly combine a visit to Ghent's attractions with a relaxing walk in nature.

A rain shower doesn't have to put a damper on your day in Ghent. The city offers numerous indoor activities where both children and parents can enjoy hours of fun. Discover interactive museums like The World of Kina, where children learn about nature and science in a playful way, visit the STAM to discover the history of Ghent, or go on an adventure at the Industry Museum, where activities for families are regularly organized.

Do the kids still have energy left? Then indoor playgrounds like Pretland Ghent and Kids Play Dok Noord are ideal places for them to play to their heart's content. Prefer a little relaxation? Head to one of the cozy coffee bars in the city center for a hot chocolate or enjoy a family movie at the cinema. This way, a rainy autumn day in Ghent is just as enjoyable as a sunny one.

After a day full of discoveries, enjoying dinner together is the perfect way to end the day. In Ghent's historical center, you'll find numerous child-friendly restaurants and cozy spots where the whole family is welcome. Prefer to stay close to your hotel? At Van der Valk Hotel Gent, families can enjoy a relaxed dinner at Restaurant Cocotte or Limoncello. There are child-friendly dishes, ample space for comfortable dining, and a cozy children's corner where the youngest guests can entertain themselves. This way, parents can enjoy a delicious dinner in peace, while the whole family ends the day together.

Want to make the most of your autumn getaway? Turn it into a weekend trip and enjoy a carefree stay in Ghent. After a day full of autumn walks, museum visits, and cozy moments in the city center, it's great to unwind in a comfortable and family-friendly hotel in Ghent.

At Van der Valk Hotel Gent everything is geared towards a relaxed stay for the whole family. Choose from spacious family rooms or suites, let the children play in the kids' corner, and enjoy an extensive live cooking breakfast buffet to start the day right. Thanks to easy accessibility, ample parking, and its location close to the city center, you can explore Ghent without worries, while returning to the hotel's comfort after a day full of adventure. This way, an autumn holiday in Ghent is not only fun for the children but also relaxing for the parents.

From colorful autumn walks and interactive museums to cozy restaurants and charming streets: Ghent has everything you need for a successful weekend with the whole family. Let yourself be inspired by the many activities, go out, and discover why the city is one of the best destinations in Belgium, even in autumn.

Latest version July 2026 - read our other blogs here