Top 7 Photo spots in Ghent

Ghent is a fantastic city to visit but even more fantastic to photograph. Ghent has a lot to offer From very touristic spots to the lesser known gems. As a frequent visiter of this city, I will give you my personal top 7 photo spots of Ghent.

10mm, f8.0, 1/200s and ISO160

#1 "Sint-Michiels" bridge

Probably the best known and most beautiful place in Ghent is the Sint-Michiels bridge. From this bridge you have a great view of the city of Ghent on all sides. As you might not be alone, It can sometimes be a bit of a hassle to acquire the perfect selfie for your Instagram! The bridge crosses the "Leie", on the south side of the Graslei and the Korenlei. The current monumental bridge was built in the period 1905-1909, after the creation of the post building. Both the St. Michael's Bridge and the Old Post Building are creations by architect Louis Cloquet.

18mm, f5.6, 1/240s and ISO160

#2 The "Gravensteen"

The Gravensteen, "Castle of the Counts" is a medieval castle in Ghent. The current castle dates to 1180 and was the residence of the Counts of Flanders until 1353. It was subsequently re-purposed as a court, prison, mint, and even as a cotton factory. It was restored over 1893–1903 and is now a museum and a major landmark in the city.

The castle on the outside is already wonderful to photograph, but if you go inside (10euro entrance) you will have an amazing view of Ghent. Try to go around golden hour for the most epic shots!

18mm, F8.0, 1/120s and ISO160

#3 The Belfry of Ghent

The Belfry of Ghent is a building you cannot miss, mainly because it is the highest one of three medieval towers of the medieval city centre of Ghent. On top of the tower there is a dragon, which does actually spit fire sometimes! If you are not scared of heights you should definitely go up the tower to enjoy the city views. Hesitant to climb the steps? Don't worry there is an elevator.

18mm, F8.0, 1/125s and ISO160

#4 "Appelbrugpark"

Escape the crowds in this smaller, more intimate park and enjoy the view, perhaps with a Belgian beer, as the canal boats sail past. This quiet location offers you a nice view of the "Groot Vleeshuis"(literally big meat house) in Ghent. In the Middle Ages, the sales of meat were centralized in meat halls or meat houses to ensure the quality of meat. Speaking of meat, I have spent many evenings here with friends, some delicious fries and "stoofvlees" well worth a try.

18mm, F8.0, 1/50s and ISO160

#5 Graffiti street

You will get an alternative view from Ghent in this colourful alley. This constantly changing street is a real treat for street art lovers. Ghent is a very open-minded and cultural city that gives room to different street artists. There are more beautiful graffiti spots located in the Ghent and walking tours that will guide you to them. This street is perfect for city portraiture, or the the occasional band photo.  

18mm, F8.0, 2s and ISO160

#6 Jachthaven Area

The colourful houses in the Jachthaven area are situated on the edge of the city center of Ghent. It is a beautiful harbour and I always pass when I get the chance, especially during sunrise and sunset. It is well worth a 15min walk from the center and less crowded too. During summer a lot of people chill and relax with some wine and snacks, seems like a good idea.

27mm, F2.8, 1/200s and ISO3200

#7 Stadshal

In the historic center of Ghent you will find a special building "The Stadshal of Ghent" it is a large, open building. Some people call it a big stable, but I think it is a beautiful modern building which connects with the history of the surrounding buildings in Ghent. Beatiful to photograph, especially when it lit up at night. There are often events held during the day. Also you might catch a musician practicing because of the great acoustics. Anyway, there is always something to capture with your camera. 

Everytime in Ghent I try to discover new locations and photo spots! You can follow me on Instagram and see all my new discoveries at @Ghentphotography

#Ghent #Gent #Belgium #Photography #photo #Flanders