Sint-Baafsplein
The historic heart of Ghent, dominated by Saint Bavo's Cathedral and home to the awe-inspiring Ghent Altarpiece.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Sint-Baafsplein
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
The historic heart of Ghent, dominated by Saint Bavo's Cathedral and home to the awe-inspiring Ghent Altarpiece.
"Sint-Baafsplein is the perfect starting point for exploring Ghent's rich history and stunning medieval architecture."
👟 Comfortable Shoes are Key
Cobblestone streets abound! Prioritize comfort for exploring Sint-Baafsplein and beyond.
🍽️ Eat Like a Local
Venture off the main square for authentic, less touristy food experiences.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Saint Bavo's Cathedral
Sint-Baafsplein
Home to the Ghent Altarpiece, a masterpiece of art and history. Don't miss this iconic Gothic cathedral.

Ghent Altarpiece
Saint Bavo's Cathedral
The Van Eyck brothers' breathtaking polyptych. A must-see for art and history enthusiasts.

Historic Ghent Architecture
Sint-Baafsplein and surrounding streets
Marvel at the stunning medieval and Renaissance facades surrounding the square. A feast for the eyes!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Ghent Vibe
Day Trip Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Comfortable Shoes are Key
Cobblestone streets abound! Prioritize comfort for exploring Sint-Baafsplein and beyond.
🍽️ Eat Like a Local
Venture off the main square for authentic, less touristy food experiences.
📸 Capture the Charm
The architecture around Sint-Baafsplein is stunning. Visit early for fewer people and better light.
🕰️ Plan Your Cathedral Visit
Check Saint Bavo's Cathedral hours, especially for viewing the Ghent Altarpiece. Booking ahead can save time.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Comfortable Shoes are Key
Cobblestone streets abound! Prioritize comfort for exploring Sint-Baafsplein and beyond.
🍽️ Eat Like a Local
Venture off the main square for authentic, less touristy food experiences.
📸 Capture the Charm
The architecture around Sint-Baafsplein is stunning. Visit early for fewer people and better light.
🕰️ Plan Your Cathedral Visit
Check Saint Bavo's Cathedral hours, especially for viewing the Ghent Altarpiece. Booking ahead can save time.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Sint-Baafsplein as the vibrant heart of Ghent, offering stunning architecture and immediate access to the magnificent Saint Bavo's Cathedral and its world-renowned Ghent Altarpiece. The square's atmosphere is a major draw, though some find the immediate vicinity can be quite tourist-heavy.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sint-Baafsplein is centrally located in Ghent, making it easily accessible. If arriving by train at Gent-Sint-Pieters station, you can take a tram (lines 1, 3, 4, or 6) directly to the city center, usually a short ride to the Korenmarkt or Gravensteen stops, both within walking distance of the square. Many visitors find it convenient to walk from the main train station if they enjoy a stroll, which takes about 20-30 minutes. Driving is possible, but parking can be challenging and expensive in the city center.
Absolutely! Sint-Baafsplein is a fantastic starting point or hub for exploring Ghent. It's a short walk to the Gravensteen Castle, the Graslei and Korenlei quays, and the Design Museum. Most of Ghent's historical center is very pedestrian-friendly.
Walking is by far the best way to experience Ghent's charm. The historic center is compact and best explored on foot. For longer distances or tired legs, the local tram system is efficient and connects key areas. Consider downloading a map of the tram routes beforehand.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Sint-Baafsplein is a public square, so there's no entry fee to walk around and enjoy the atmosphere. However, attractions located on or around the square, like Saint Bavo's Cathedral and the Ghent Altarpiece, do have admission fees and specific visiting hours.
The cost to view the Ghent Altarpiece within Saint Bavo's Cathedral can vary. It's advisable to check the official Saint Bavo's Cathedral website for the most current ticket prices and any special exhibition fees. Booking online in advance is often recommended to secure your spot and avoid queues.
Saint Bavo's Cathedral generally has daily opening hours, but these can change due to services, events, or seasonal variations. It's crucial to check the cathedral's official website for the most up-to-date information on opening times, especially if you plan to visit the Ghent Altarpiece.
While there might not be a universal 'Sint-Baafsplein attractions' ticket, Ghent offers city cards or passes that can provide access to multiple museums and attractions, potentially saving you money if you plan to visit several sites. Research the 'Ghent City Card' or similar options to see if it fits your itinerary.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire square offers great photo opportunities, especially with Saint Bavo's Cathedral as a backdrop. For unique angles, try capturing the reflections in the surrounding buildings or the lively street scenes. The view from the canal bridges nearby also offers a picturesque perspective of the cathedral.
Photography rules inside Saint Bavo's Cathedral can vary, especially concerning the Ghent Altarpiece. Generally, non-flash photography is permitted in most areas, but it's essential to respect any signage or instructions from staff to protect the artwork and maintain the solemnity of the space.
Early mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the square's architecture without many people. Late afternoons, during the 'golden hour,' provide a warm, beautiful light that enhances the historic buildings. Evenings can be magical with the square lit up.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While Sint-Baafsplein has many restaurants, venturing a few streets away can lead to more authentic and less touristy options. Look for 'eetcafés' or smaller bistros in the side streets. Ghent is known for its 'Gentse Waterzooi' (a creamy stew) and 'cuberdons' (cone-shaped candies).
Ghent is a very vegetarian and vegan-friendly city! You'll find numerous restaurants and cafes offering plant-based dishes. Many establishments clearly mark their menus, and you can easily find dedicated vegan eateries or restaurants with extensive vegetarian choices.
Don't leave Ghent without trying 'Gentse Waterzooi,' a rich stew traditionally made with chicken or fish. Also, sample 'cuberdons' (or 'neuzekes'), a sweet, raspberry-flavored candy. For a local beer experience, try a 'Stropken' or other Belgian brews.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a treat, seek out the famous Ghent 'cuberdons' (cone-shaped candies) from a local vendor. Many cafes around the square offer kid-friendly snacks and drinks. Remember that Ghent is very walkable, but for younger children, a stroller or carrier might be useful for navigating the cobblestones. The open space of the square itself allows for a bit of freedom to move around.
🚶 Day-Trippers
To maximize your day, prioritize what you want to see. If art and history are your focus, dedicate ample time to the cathedral. For a taste of local life, find a less touristy eatery just a few blocks away from the main square. Wear comfortable shoes, as Ghent's charm is best discovered on foot. Consider purchasing a city map or using a navigation app to efficiently move between attractions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Ghent Altarpiece: A Masterpiece Unveiled
Viewing the altarpiece requires a dedicated visit to Saint Bavo's Cathedral. While the exterior panels are impressive, opening the inner wings reveals the full splendor of the work, including the central panel depicting the Adoration of the Lamb. The cathedral offers guided tours and audio guides that provide deep insights into the artwork's creation, meaning, and historical significance. Be prepared for a truly immersive art experience that has captivated viewers for generations.
Pro-tip: Consider booking your viewing slot in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure you don't miss out. The experience is often enhanced by understanding the context and symbolism, so taking advantage of the available information resources within the cathedral is highly recommended.
Exploring Sint-Baafsplein: More Than Just a Square
Beyond the cathedral, the square is a gateway to further exploration. Its central location makes it an ideal starting point for discovering Ghent's medieval core. Wander through the adjacent narrow streets to find charming cafes, independent boutiques, and hidden courtyards. The atmosphere on Sint-Baafsplein can shift from serene mornings to lively evenings, offering different perspectives throughout the day. It’s a place to soak in the ambiance, people-watch, and truly connect with the spirit of Ghent.
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