STAM: Ghent's Story Unfolded
Discover Ghent's captivating story at STAM, the city museum where history comes alive through interactive exhibits, multimedia displays, and a stunning collection of artifacts, all within a historic abbey setting.
The STAM, Ghent City Museum, vividly narrates the city's evolution from its medieval roots to its modern, vibrant present. Housed on the historic Bijloke site, a former abbey and hospital, the museum seamlessly blends ancient architecture with contemporary design. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, multimedia displays, and a vast collection of artifacts that bring Ghent's rich history to life. Highlights include a walkable aerial photograph of Ghent, detailed historical models, and engaging exhibitions that explore the city's urban development and cultural identity. It's an ideal starting point for understanding Ghent's past, present, and future, offering a comprehensive and immersive experience for all ages.
A brief summary to STAM - Ghent City Museum
- Godshuizenlaan 2, Ghent, Arrondissement of Ghent, 9000, BE
- +3292671400
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Walk across the giant aerial photo of Ghent to get a unique perspective on the city's layout and historical development.
- Explore the Bijloke site beyond the museum; it's a cultural hub with a music center and other attractions.
- Visit the STAMplein, a free section of the museum, for a glimpse into contemporary Ghent through local exhibitions.
- Combine your visit to STAM with a trip to the nearby Museum of Fine Arts (MSK) for a full day of culture.
- Check the museum's website for temporary exhibitions and special events to enhance your visit.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Gent-Sint-Pieters train station, take tram lines 1, 3, or 4 to the 'Gent Bijlokehof' stop. From there, it's a short walk to STAM. Tram tickets cost around €3 per single journey. Alternatively, from Korenmarkt, tram line 1 will also take you to the 'Verlorenkost' stop, which is close to the museum. Bus lines 5, 9, and 19 also stop near the museum (Albertbrug or Koning Albertbrug stops).
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Walking
From Ghent city center (e.g., Korenmarkt), STAM is approximately a 20-minute walk. Enjoy a scenic stroll along the river Leie or through Citadelpark. Follow the signs towards the Bijloke site. Note that the Bijloke site has two entrances: Bijlokekaai 7 and Godshuizenlaan 2. The Godshuizenlaan 2 entrance is closest to STAM.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
A taxi or ride-share from Gent-Sint-Pieters train station or the city center to STAM will cost approximately €10-€15. Specify 'Godshuizenlaan 2' as your destination. Be aware of potential traffic delays during peak hours.
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Driving
If driving, be aware of Ghent's Low Emission Zone (LEZ). Check if your vehicle meets the emission standards to enter the city center. There is no parking directly at the Bijloke site. Park in the surrounding streets (orange zone, paid parking) or in one of the nearby underground parking garages such as Parking Sint-Pietersplein or Parking Gent Zuid. Parking fees typically range from €2-€3 per hour. Touring cars and buses can drop off tourists at the Bijlokesite (Godshuizenlaan).
Discover more about STAM - Ghent City Museum
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Sint-Pietersplein, Ghent
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Sint-Pietersabdij
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Wintercircus
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Hotel d'Hane-Steenhuyse
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Treaty of Ghent Marker
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Every Nation Gent
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Koning Albertpark (Zuidpark)
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Standbeeld François Laurent
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Jose Rizal Historical Marker - Ghent, Belgium
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Park memorial of war victims
1.1 km
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Sint-Michielsplein
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Ghent
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St Michael's Bridge
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Legends of Gent Free & Private Walking Tours
1.1 km
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Capitole Ghent
1.1 km
Experience the vibrant cultural scene of Ghent at Capitole Ghent, a stunning performing arts theater offering a diverse lineup of unforgettable performances.
Unmissable attractions to see
Music Center De Bijloke
0.1 km
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Book Tower
0.6 km
Explore the Book Tower in Ghent, a majestic library offering stunning views and a rich collection of literary treasures.
Leopold Barracks
0.6 km
Explore the historical significance of Leopold Barracks in Ghent, a captivating landmark reflecting the city's military heritage and architectural beauty.
Gedenkplaat Pieter Van Gent (Pedro de Gante)
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The world of Kina: the House
0.7 km
Explore the captivating World of Kina in Ghent, where nature and history intertwine through engaging exhibits and educational experiences.
SMAK - Municipal Museum of Contemporary Art
0.7 km
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Museum voor Schone Kunsten
0.8 km
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Handelsbeurs
0.8 km
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Kouter
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VIERNULVIER
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Citadelpark
0.8 km
Experience the tranquility of Citadelpark in Ghent, a lush urban park blending nature, art, and culture in the heart of the city.
Museum Arnold Vander Haeghen
0.9 km
Explore Ghent's cultural heritage at Museum Arnold Vander Haeghen, a stunning 18th-century mansion with elegant salons and literary history.
Muinkpark
0.9 km
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Universiteit Gent - Botanical Garden
1.0 km
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Mural - Jan Van Imschoot
1.0 km
A vibrant mural by Jan Van Imschoot, adding contemporary flair to Ghent's dynamic street art scene on Brabantdam. A must-see for art lovers!
Essential places to dine
Ce's Arts Bistro
0.4 km
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A LISBOETA
0.4 km
Experience authentic Portuguese cuisine at A Lisboeta in Ghent – where tradition meets flavor in every bite.
Lys d'Or
0.4 km
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Jan van den Bon
0.5 km
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Greenway Ghent
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Firenze
0.5 km
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Alix - Table & Jardin d'Amis
0.6 km
Experience delightful brunches and elegant events at Alix - Table & Jardin d'Amis in Ghent's serene setting.
Pane & Vino
0.6 km
Experience the best of Italian cuisine at Pane & Vino in Ghent – where every pizza tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Revue
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Antichi Sapori
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Le homard rouge
0.6 km
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Bonavia
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Café Theatre
0.7 km
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Joan
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Brasserie Café des Arts
0.7 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Think Twice
0.5 km
Explore sustainable fashion at Think Twice, Ghent's premier used clothing store for unique and stylish finds.
Vintage Factory Gent
0.6 km
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MIGLOT Fragrance Lab
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Flying Tiger Copenhagen Gent
0.8 km
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Axeswar Design
0.8 km
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Worlds' End Comics & Games Center
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INNO Gent
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Just Waldo BV
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MOVIES
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Bellerose
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State of Art Store Gent
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Tommy Hilfiger
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Dille & Kamille
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Juttu
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Au Bon Marché
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
De Karper
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Magique Lounge
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ONA Nederkouter
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Café Backdoor
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Bar Coda
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Masters Pub
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Bar Jan Cremer
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Rock Circus
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Patrick Foley's
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BAR CÉSAR GENT koffie-, apero- & lunchspot
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Porter House
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De Geus van Gent
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Oyster bar
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Elmo
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cocktail Hollywood
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Point Final
0.7 km
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Decadance
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Niche Club
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‘t Koerke
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Kitsch Club
1.1 km
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Crystal Bar
1.2 km
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Missy Sippy Blues & Roots Club
1.2 km
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Club Embassy
1.3 km
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Abacho
1.3 km
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CLUB VIER
1.5 km
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Club 69
1.5 km
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Charlatan
1.5 km
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Club 1847
1.7 km
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Light Club
2.0 km
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Kompass
3.7 km
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