I admit that I’m not the type of traveller who likes to plan or research much.

I’ve been known to get off a plane without knowing where to go or where to stay. For me, part of the adventure is in the surprises that you find and I find so many more when I’ve done little to no research.

I was on my way to Antwerp for Flanders is a Festival but was due to spend the day in Ghent (organised by visitFlanders), I hadn’t really read up on the sights and attractions before hand. Perhaps, because it’s so easy to get real knowledgeable recommendations via social media these days that I don’t think I need to read something that may or may not be outdated?

The Ghent Tram

At Gent-Sint-Pieters train station I eventually gave up trying to figure out how to pay for the tram and boarded. Recovering in the air-con from the humid heat outside I reluctantly jumped off right in the centre. I felt a little guilty about not paying but managed to convince myself it was their own fault for not making the ticket machine obvious to clueless tourists like myself.

Stunning Architecture

I wasn’t expecting that much from Ghent, I’d heard that it was a nice place but hadn’t really had any urge to visit. From the moment I stumbled off the tram on the cobble like streets with a backpack loaded with blogger tech and a wheelie suitcase, Ghent’s beauty dawned on me. Beautiful architecture was in front, to the left and all around me as I wandered in the direction of my hotel (hotel Monasterium Poortackere). I crossed what I later realised to be St Michael’s Bridge in the blazing sunlight. On the river below, locals and tourists relaxed taking in the sun whilst watching the boats meander past, at this point I realised that I really should have dedicated a day or two to this quint and historical city.

Hotel Monasterium Poortackere

A just a short walk from St Michael’s Church, Hotel Monasterium Poortackere was my hotel for the night. The hotel is a former monastery that had been home to 6 nuns up until 1998, it is a unique place to stay whilst it Ghent. Rooms are quite basic but in keeping with being a former nunnery and it makes a change from staying in characterless hotel chains. The hotel even has its own chapel and is well located for those looking to wander to the historic centre of the city.

The Historic Centre

It takes me a while to adjust to heat and it was an especially hot humid day due to a heat wave hitting Europe, never the less I wanted to make the most of my time in Ghent so I grabbed the camera and iphone and headed to the historical centre. Strolling around this area you can discover numerous churches, museums as well as cafes and restaurants. My highlights were the belfry for its beautiful views, the Gravensteen castle and the Saint Bavo Cathedral – home of the altar painting “The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb”.

Belgian Beer

After a busy afternoon of sight-seeing around Ghent I needed to cool down and rest my weary legs. I found a seat outside Delirium bar and ordered a 7% Orval beer, it was a great spot for people watching.

Chez Leontine

Chez Leontine has excellent views situated overlooking the river and Groetenmarkt and is a great place to relax in summer. They serve typical Belgium food such as mussels, rabbit and the beer menu is so extensive that I simply asked for a recommendation to accompany my steak. Portions are substantial and the food is excellent. Highly recommended. If you’re feeling adventurous you can also wander next door to Dreupelkot where there is a large selection of jenever (gin) on offer.

Overall, Ghent is a wonderful city. The perfect place to spend a weekend leisurely wandering the streets, visiting stunning churches, museums, cafes and sampling some of the wonderful Belgian beers. I wish I had much more time to spend here but I’m sure I’ll be back in the near future.