News
November 18, 2025
Rick Steves’ Europe: A walk through Ghent
Once one of Belgium's medieval powerhouses, Ghent today is home to one of Belgium’s biggest universities and a vibrant student population. While it has plenty of pretty canals and gables, it also enjoys a certain amount of urban grittiness, with...
Ghent, Belgium: A Blend of Medieval Grandeur and Modern Vibrancy
Ghent, a city often overshadowed by its more famous Belgian neighbors, is stepping into the spotlight thanks to travel guru Rick Steves, who highlights its unique charm in his "Rick Steves' Europe" series. Once a medieval powerhouse, rivaling even Paris in size and influence, Ghent offers visitors a captivating journey through history while pulsating with the energy of a modern, thriving city.
Steves’ exploration of Ghent focuses on its ability to seamlessly blend the old and the new. The city boasts a stunning architectural tapestry, woven with picturesque canals reflecting rows of elegant gabled houses. These waterways, once vital trade routes, now offer leisurely boat tours, providing a unique perspective on the city's historical heart.
However, Ghent is far from a museum piece. Home to one of Belgium’s largest universities, it crackles with the youthful exuberance of a vibrant student population. This influx of young minds contributes to a palpable sense of innovation and creativity, evident in its bustling cultural scene, trendy cafes, and innovative art installations that pepper the city.
According to Steves, what sets Ghent apart is its refreshing dose of "urban grittiness." Unlike some meticulously preserved historical centers, Ghent embraces its authentic character. The city doesn't shy away from its industrial past, with repurposed factories now housing creative spaces and independent businesses. This willingness to embrace its full history, both the glamorous and the gritty, gives Ghent a raw, unpretentious appeal.
Visitors can explore the Gravensteen, a formidable medieval castle that stands as a testament to Ghent's powerful past. They can also wander through the Graslei and Korenlei, the city’s iconic waterfront areas, soaking in the atmosphere and enjoying the lively street performers. But beyond the well-trodden paths, Ghent invites exploration, urging travelers to discover hidden courtyards, quirky shops, and authentic local experiences.
Rick Steves’ spotlight on Ghent is a well-deserved recognition of a city that offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and modern energy. It's a destination that appeals to those seeking a more authentic and less polished European experience, a place where medieval grandeur meets contemporary vibrancy on every corner.
Ghent, a city often overshadowed by its more famous Belgian neighbors, is stepping into the spotlight thanks to travel guru Rick Steves, who highlights its unique charm in his "Rick Steves' Europe" series. Once a medieval powerhouse, rivaling even Paris in size and influence, Ghent offers visitors a captivating journey through history while pulsating with the energy of a modern, thriving city.
Steves’ exploration of Ghent focuses on its ability to seamlessly blend the old and the new. The city boasts a stunning architectural tapestry, woven with picturesque canals reflecting rows of elegant gabled houses. These waterways, once vital trade routes, now offer leisurely boat tours, providing a unique perspective on the city's historical heart.
However, Ghent is far from a museum piece. Home to one of Belgium’s largest universities, it crackles with the youthful exuberance of a vibrant student population. This influx of young minds contributes to a palpable sense of innovation and creativity, evident in its bustling cultural scene, trendy cafes, and innovative art installations that pepper the city.
According to Steves, what sets Ghent apart is its refreshing dose of "urban grittiness." Unlike some meticulously preserved historical centers, Ghent embraces its authentic character. The city doesn't shy away from its industrial past, with repurposed factories now housing creative spaces and independent businesses. This willingness to embrace its full history, both the glamorous and the gritty, gives Ghent a raw, unpretentious appeal.
Visitors can explore the Gravensteen, a formidable medieval castle that stands as a testament to Ghent's powerful past. They can also wander through the Graslei and Korenlei, the city’s iconic waterfront areas, soaking in the atmosphere and enjoying the lively street performers. But beyond the well-trodden paths, Ghent invites exploration, urging travelers to discover hidden courtyards, quirky shops, and authentic local experiences.
Rick Steves’ spotlight on Ghent is a well-deserved recognition of a city that offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and modern energy. It's a destination that appeals to those seeking a more authentic and less polished European experience, a place where medieval grandeur meets contemporary vibrancy on every corner.
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