CityBuddy
St. Bavo's Cathedral
Best time to visit
Visit early morning on weekdays to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and best photo light streaming through stained glass windows.
Budget tips
Entry to the cathedral is often free but there's a small fee to access the Ghent Altarpiece; consider a city pass for discounts on multiple sites.
Recommended for
Art lovers, History enthusiasts, Architecture fans, Cultural explorers
Plan your visit
1-2 hours
About
Quick facts: An enormous and majestic Gothic cathedral towers over the city with its intricate stonework and towering spires. The cathedral houses one of the most famous altarpieces in the world, the Ghent Altarpiece, renowned for its vibrant colors and detailed religious scenes.
Highlights: Step inside to glimpse the Ghent Altarpiece, painted by the Van Eyck brothers, featuring 12 panels with over 200 lifelike figures that seem to come alive under natural light. Don’t miss the chance to see the cathedral’s beautifully carved choir stalls and the mesmerizing soundpipe organ that fills the huge nave with powerful music.
Insider tips
- Wear comfortable shoes as the floor has uneven stones.
- Head to the side chapels to avoid crowds and find unique photo opportunities.
- Avoid weekends if you prefer a quieter visit.
- Check the chapel schedule for organ concerts to enhance the experience.
Have you heard of free walking tours?
After traveling to 30+ countries, there's one thing I wish someone had told me from day one, and it completely changed how I experience new cities.
Free walking tours. Yes, actually free. No credit card needed. No catch.
Local guide, 2-3 hours
Major sights, hidden gems, local stories
100% tip-based
Guides earn only tips, so they give their absolute best
You tip what feels right
At the end, just tip whatever you feel is right
I've done these in dozens of cities and they've been the highlight of almost every trip. If you're visiting Gent, Belgium, do this on your first day. You'll thank me later.
