Background

Café Den Turk: A Historic Ghent Gathering Place

4.4 (790)

Experience Ghent's oldest café, Café Den Turk, a historic gem with a cozy atmosphere and a wide selection of Belgian beers.

Café Den Turk, potentially Ghent's oldest café, offers a cozy, historic atmosphere. With roots possibly dating back to the 13th or 14th century, it features a classic 'brown café' interior, a wide selection of Belgian beers, and is a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike.

A brief summary to Café Den Turk

  • Monday 2 pm-3 am
  • Tuesday 2 pm-3 am
  • Wednesday 2 pm-3 am
  • Thursday 2 pm-4 am
  • Friday 11 am-4 am
  • Saturday 11 am-4 am
  • Sunday 11 am-3 am

Local tips

  • Try the 'uufflakke,' a traditional Flemish dish of cheese and jellied meat, for an authentic local snack.
  • Visit on a weekday afternoon to avoid the weekend crowds and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere.
  • Ask the bartender for beer recommendations; they are knowledgeable about the extensive selection.
  • Check out the framed portraits of local artists and musicians displayed on the walls.
widget icon

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Attraction

Ghent City Hall

The Majestic Ghent City Hall: A Historical Marvel
Attraction

Botermarkt

Botermarkt: Ghent's Historic Heart
Attraction

Achtersikkel

Discover the Charm of Achtersikkel: A Hidden Gem in Ghent

Unlock the Best of Café Den Turk

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Getting There

  • Walking

    From Korenmarkt, a central Ghent landmark, walk north towards the Sint-Niklaaskerk (Saint Nicholas Church). Continue past the church on your left, and Botermarkt will be the square on your right. Café Den Turk is located on the east side of the square. The walk is approximately 2-3 minutes and involves no cost.

  • Public Transport

    From Gent-Sint-Pieters railway station, take tram line 1, 2, 3, or 4 to the Korenmarkt stop. From Korenmarkt, walk north towards Sint-Niklaaskerk. Continue past the church on your left, and Botermarkt will be the square on your right. Café Den Turk is located on the east side of the square. A single tram ticket costs €3 if purchased via contactless payment on the tram. Alternatively, an M-ticket purchased via the De Lijn app or SMS costs €2.50.

  • Taxi

    From Gent-Sint-Pieters railway station, a taxi to Botermarkt will cost approximately €16 and take around 10 minutes, depending on traffic. Taxi stands are available at the station. Ride-sharing services like Uber are also available. Be aware that taxi fares may vary depending on the time of day and traffic conditions.

Discover more about Café Den Turk

Café Den Turk, located on Botermarkt in Ghent, is more than just a place to grab a drink; it's a step back in time. Reputedly the oldest café in Ghent, its history is debated, with some claiming origins as far back as 1228 or 1340. Regardless of the exact date, Den Turk has been a consistent feature of Ghent's social life for centuries. The building itself reflects Ghent's rich architectural past, with a facade constructed of sand lime, a material commonly used in prestigious 15th and 16th-century buildings. Inside, the café exudes a traditional 'brown café' ambiance, characterized by its cozy and unpretentious decor. Portraits of local artists, musicians, and city councilors adorn the walls, adding to the sense of history and local connection. The café is known for its extensive selection of Belgian beers, including Trappist ales and abbey beers, as well as a variety of whiskeys and cognacs. It's a popular spot for locals, including city council members who often gather there after meetings. One unique feature of Den Turk is the 'spaarkas,' a wooden box with numbered slots where regulars save money for future drinks. This quirky tradition adds to the café's charm and sense of community. Den Turk offers a glimpse into Ghent's past and present, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an authentic Belgian café experience.

Explore the best of what Café Den Turk has to offer

Mobile App

Your all‑in‑one travel companion app

Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.



More about Brussels

File:Grand-Place, Brussels - panorama, June 2018 (cropped).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

Discover Brussels: A blend of medieval architecture, world-famous cuisine, and vibrant arts scene. The heart of Belgium and Europe awaits your exploration.

Tell me more about Brussels
Attraction

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Vrijdagmarkt, Ghent's historic market square, brimming with local culture, delightful cuisine, and unique shopping experiences.

Vrijdagmarkt
Attraction

Experience the rich history and stunning architecture of Ghent City Hall, a must-visit landmark in Belgium's vibrant city of Ghent.

Ghent City Hall

Select Currency