Design Museum Gent - white and grey concrete building during daytime
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Design Museum Gent

4.1
·2k reviews·Gent, Belgium

A unique museum in a historic palace, showcasing design evolution from classic furniture to modern innovation.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing

CrowdLow
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Design Museum Gent - white and grey concrete building during daytime

Design Museum Gent

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A unique museum in a historic palace, showcasing design evolution from classic furniture to modern innovation.

4.1
(2k reviews)

"A curious mix of design and contemporary art in a fine old building."

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TIP

Check Exhibit Languages

Most exhibitions offer information in English, making it accessible even if you don't speak Flemish or French.

Allow an Hour

The museum is compact but packed with interesting pieces. Plan for about an hour to fully appreciate the collection.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Design Evolution

Design Evolution

Main Exhibition Halls

Trace the history of design through iconic furniture and housing trends across centuries. A journey through time for design enthusiasts.

Human-Animal Interaction Exhibit

Human-Animal Interaction Exhibit

Special Exhibition Space

A thought-provoking display exploring the complex relationship between humans and animals. A standout experience that sparks conversation.

Historic Palace Architecture

Historic Palace Architecture

Museum Building

Marvel at the beautiful, historic building that houses the museum, a former city palace. The architecture itself is a significant part of the visit.

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Planning Your Visit

Combine Old and New

Experience a fascinating blend of historic architecture and cutting-edge design. The museum's former city palace setting offers a unique backdrop to its modern exhibits, making it a visually striking destination for all ages. Reddit

Kid-Friendly Exploration

Engage younger visitors with interactive elements like hidden Playmobil toys to find during tours. The museum strives to keep children entertained, with specific exhibitions like robots proving popular. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
More interactive elements available
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

What should I do in one day in Gent? Interested in design, antiques, vinyls, good food/bars

Check Exhibit Languages

Most exhibitions offer information in English, making it accessible even if you don't speak Flemish or French. Reddit

Allow an Hour

The museum is compact but packed with interesting pieces. Plan for about an hour to fully appreciate the collection. Reddit

reddit.com

Tips: afternoon in Ghent

reddit.com

In Ghent/Brugges for 2 days, what are some must-sees?

Engage Kids with Playmobil

Encourage children to participate in the 'search for Playmobil' activity for an added layer of fun. Reddit

Embrace the Mix

Enjoy the unique combination of design, contemporary art, and historic architecture. It's a diverse experience. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Exhibit Languages

Most exhibitions offer information in English, making it accessible even if you don't speak Flemish or French. Reddit

Allow an Hour

The museum is compact but packed with interesting pieces. Plan for about an hour to fully appreciate the collection. Reddit

Engage Kids with Playmobil

Encourage children to participate in the 'search for Playmobil' activity for an added layer of fun. Reddit

Embrace the Mix

Enjoy the unique combination of design, contemporary art, and historic architecture. It's a diverse experience. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.1
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Design Museum Gent for its captivating blend of historic architecture and innovative design exhibits. The museum is noted for its engaging approach to making art accessible to children, with interactive elements and multilingual information. While some find the collection compact, the overall experience is often described as a beautiful and thought-provoking visit.

"There are many things to see! I was impressed by the combination of old and new and their efforts to make children not bored. And the staffs are really kind. For me, it was almost perfect but I was wondering if they should rely on leaflet for providing information"

sh lim

"I liked it a lot, but my friends had mixed opinions. It houses a curious mix of design and contemporary art in a fine old building. The exhibition focusing on the interaction of humans and animals was thought provoking and the most effective aspect of the museum."

Ian Yates

"This former city Palace has been transformed in quite a big museum with a more modern wing. The collection gives you the highlights of the evolution in design furniture and housing. And the kids have to search for some hidden playmobil toys during the tour."

Bart Eekhaut

What People Like

Historic building charm
Design evolution exhibits
Kid-friendly activities

What People Dislike

Can feel small
Leaflet reliance

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Design Museum Gent is centrally located in Ghent. It's easily accessible by public transport, with tram and bus stops nearby. If arriving by train at Gent-Sint-Pieters station, you can take a tram directly to the city center. Walking from the main historical sites is also a pleasant option. Reddit

While direct parking at the museum is limited, there are several public parking garages within walking distance in the city center. Consider using the P+R (Park and Ride) facilities on the outskirts of Ghent and taking public transport into the center to avoid city traffic and parking fees. Reddit

Absolutely! Design Museum Gent is situated in the heart of Ghent, making it easily walkable from popular landmarks like the Gravensteen Castle and St. Bavo's Cathedral. Enjoy a stroll through the charming streets. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The museum typically opens around 10 AM and closes at 6 PM, but it's always best to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours, especially for specific exhibition dates or public holidays. Reddit

Admission prices can vary depending on current exhibitions. It's recommended to check the museum's official website for the latest ticket prices and any potential discounts for students, seniors, or groups. Reddit

While not always mandatory, booking tickets online in advance is often recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons or for popular temporary exhibitions. This can help you save time and guarantee entry. Reddit

The museum may offer discounts for students, seniors, and groups. Check their website or inquire at the ticket desk for details on eligibility and required documentation. Reddit

Design Museum Gent is generally accessible, with efforts made to accommodate visitors with disabilities. However, due to the historic nature of parts of the building, it's advisable to contact the museum directly to confirm specific accessibility features. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Most visitors find that an hour is sufficient to explore the main collections and current exhibitions. However, if you're particularly interested in design history or a specific exhibit, you might want to allocate a bit more time. Reddit

The museum showcases a diverse collection ranging from historical furniture to contemporary design objects, often with a focus on Belgian designers. Rotating exhibitions explore various themes within the design world. Reddit

Yes, the museum makes an effort to be child-friendly. They often include interactive elements, like scavenger hunts for hidden toys, and have had specific exhibitions, such as one on robots, that appeal to younger audiences. Reddit

Photography policies can vary by exhibition. Generally, non-flash photography for personal use is permitted, but it's always best to check the signage within the museum or ask staff for clarification. Reddit

Exhibitions at Design Museum Gent typically provide information in multiple languages, including English, Flemish, and French, ensuring a broad audience can understand and appreciate the displays. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While the museum itself might not have a full-service restaurant, there is often a small cafe or refreshment area. For a wider selection of dining options, the surrounding city center of Ghent offers numerous cafes, bistros, and restaurants. Reddit

The museum is located in a vibrant area of Ghent, surrounded by a plethora of cafes and restaurants catering to various tastes and budgets. You'll find everything from traditional Belgian cuisine to international flavors. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The juxtaposition of the historic palace architecture with modern design pieces offers unique photographic opportunities. Look for interesting angles that highlight the contrast between old and new. The human-animal exhibit also provides visually striking elements. Reddit

Generally, flash photography is not permitted inside the museum to protect the exhibits. Always check for signage or ask museum staff if you are unsure about photography rules. Reddit

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Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Design Museum Gent is a great choice for families looking for an engaging cultural experience. The museum's efforts to include interactive elements, like the popular 'search for Playmobil' activity, are designed to keep children entertained and curious. Reddit Exhibitions are often presented with information in multiple languages, including English, making it accessible for diverse families. Consider visiting during weekday mornings to avoid larger crowds and allow children to explore at their own pace. Reddit

🎨 Art & Design Enthusiasts

For those passionate about design, the museum offers a curated journey through the evolution of furniture and housing. The unique setting within a historic palace provides a stunning backdrop for appreciating both classic and contemporary pieces. Don't miss the thought-provoking exhibition on human-animal interaction, which has been highlighted as a particularly effective aspect of the museum's offerings. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs

While primarily a design museum, the historic palace setting itself is a significant draw for history enthusiasts. Explore the beautiful architecture and imagine life within its walls centuries ago. The museum's collection often contextualizes design within historical periods, offering insights into past lifestyles and aesthetics. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Fusion of History and Modernity

Design Museum Gent is housed within a former city palace, a structure that beautifully marries historical grandeur with contemporary design. This architectural duality is a core part of the museum's appeal, offering visitors a visually rich experience. The contrast between the old building's ornate details and the sleek lines of modern design pieces creates a unique atmosphere that is both educational and aesthetically pleasing. Reddit

This blend is not just superficial; it's integral to the museum's narrative. The exhibits often explore how design has evolved within different historical contexts, making the building itself a silent, yet significant, participant in the storytelling. Visitors often remark on how the setting enhances their appreciation of the displayed works, turning a simple museum visit into a journey through time and style. Reddit

Engaging Young Minds with Design

Design Museum Gent actively works to make its exhibitions accessible and engaging for younger visitors. A popular feature is the inclusion of interactive elements, such as scavenger hunts where children can search for hidden Playmobil figures throughout the displays. This gamified approach encourages close observation and makes the learning process more enjoyable. Reddit

Beyond these playful activities, the museum has hosted specific exhibitions, like one focused on robots, which have proven to be a hit with children. The aim is to spark curiosity and demonstrate that design is not just about static objects but can be dynamic and relevant to their lives. The multilingual information also ensures that children from various backgrounds can follow along. Reddit

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