Summer in Ghent: 5x why the city is the place to be this summer

Topping the list, because let's be honest: who doesn't love a terrace with the city's most beautiful scenery? The Graslei and Korenlei form the heart of the Ghent summer: historic facades, passing boats, and a relaxed holiday atmosphere.

It's the perfect place for an aperitif in the sun or a long summer evening with friends. It's the spot where locals and tourists come together. Along the banks of the Graslei, you can also enjoy a lovely picnic by the water. Just relax and enjoy.

One of the most relaxing ways to discover Ghent is from the water. During a boat trip on the Leie, you see the city from a different perspective: calm, charming, and surprisingly green.

Imagine on a hot summer day: what could be better than a refreshing breeze as you sail past old trading houses, hidden gardens, and charming bridges? The pace is slow, the atmosphere is high. Ideal to experience the city in a completely different way.

Prefer something more sporty? Then rent a sup or kayak and explore the Ghent waters at your own pace.

The summer in Ghent also means: atmosphere, music, and events.

From major festivals like the Gentse Feesten to small summer bars hidden in parks and by the water, there's always something to do in Ghent. Each district has its own vibe, allowing you to constantly discover new places.

Our favorites listed:

• Gent Jazz Festival (2 – 18 July 2026): an international jazz festival with world-class performances at the Bijloke site.

• Gentse Feesten (17 – 26 July 2026): one of Europe's largest cultural public festivals with music, theater, street animation, and more. 

• Patershol Feest (14 – 16 August 2026): a cozy neighborhood party with music, food, and activities in the historic Patershol. 

• Bijloke Wonderland (20 - 30 August 2026): a summer cultural festival with sunrise concerts, summer bar concerts, theater, dance, visual arts, and tours.

Summer is also the perfect time to shop in Ghent. During the sales from 1 to 31 July 2026, you can find discounts in large chains and unique boutiques in the center.

From the Veldstraat to the smaller streets around the center: Ghent is compact, making it easy to discover everything on foot. Ideal as a change of pace on a day full of terraces and culture.

Discover here the best neighborhoods for shopping and be surprised by hidden shops and unique spots.

Last but not least: because Ghent is more than just atmosphere. In between enjoying, you can discover iconic places like the Gravensteen, Saint Bavo's Cathedral, and the Belfry tower.

The best part? Everything is within walking distance, allowing you to perfectly combine culture with relaxation on a terrace.

Want to combine these 5 things calmly in one trip? It's best to stay the night.

Hotel Gent is the ideal base to discover the city in peace. Just a 20-minute bike ride lands you in the bustling center of Ghent while enjoying comfort and relaxation just outside the city bustle. Thanks to the bike rental at the hotel, you can explore the city entirely at your own pace.

The summer atmosphere is also in full swing at the hotel itself. Enjoy dinner at Limoncello, Restaurant Cocotte or Skybar Mr. Sato, relax on one of the sunny terraces, or go for an early morning walk in the nearby park. Does the Belgian summer bring a rain shower? Then you can completely relax in the Weleda Spa. Moreover, parking is easy at the hotel, electric charging stations are available, and pets are welcome.

Turn your visit into a real city trip in Ghent with the Valk Citytrip Package. You enjoy an overnight stay in a comfortable room, an extensive breakfast buffet, a 3-course dinner at Restaurant Cocotte, a Valk disposable camera, and a discount on photo prints at HEMA. This way, your summer in Ghent becomes not just a trip, but a complete city trip experience.

Whether you come for terraces, culture, shopping, or festivals: Ghent combines it all within walking distance. It's no wonder the city is one of the most popular city trip destinations in Belgium every year.

Discover it for yourself and experience your summer in Ghent.