Exploring the Majestic Gravensteen Castle in Ghent
Discover the enchanting Gravensteen Castle in Ghent, a historical gem that showcases medieval architecture and captivating views over the city.
Gravensteen, or the Castle of the Counts, stands as a majestic symbol of Ghent's rich medieval history. This remarkable castle, built in the late 12th century, offers a fascinating glimpse into the past with its robust stone walls and towering turrets. As you approach the castle, you will be captivated by its imposing structure and the surrounding moat, which adds to its fairy-tale charm. Inside, visitors can explore a range of exhibits that showcase the castle's historical significance, including displays of medieval weaponry and artifacts that transport you back to a time of knights and royalty. One of the highlights of a visit to Gravensteen is the panoramic view from the top of its towers, where you can gaze out over the picturesque rooftops of Ghent and the winding canals below. The ascent to the towers is a delightful experience, allowing you to appreciate the castle's architecture up close. The guided tours available provide insightful commentary on the castle's history, making it more than just a beautiful site; it is an educational adventure for tourists of all ages. Gravensteen is conveniently located in the heart of Ghent, making it an ideal stop during your exploration of this vibrant city. The castle is open daily, providing ample opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in its storied past. With its combination of historical intrigue and stunning views, Gravensteen is an essential destination for anyone visiting Ghent, offering a memorable experience that captures the essence of Belgium's rich heritage.
Local tips
- Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy a more personal experience.
- Don’t miss the exhibition on medieval torture devices in the castle.
- Bring a camera; the views from the towers are breathtaking!
- Check for special events or exhibitions that may be happening during your visit.
A brief summary to Gravensteen
- Sint-Veerleplein 11, Ghent, 9000, BE
- +3292259306
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
- Thursday 10 am-6 pm
- Friday 10 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-6 pm
Getting There
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Car
From the center of Dyle Valley, take the N2 road towards Ghent. Continue on N2 for approximately 20 kilometers until you reach the junction with the E17 motorway. Merge onto E17 towards Ghent. After about 10 kilometers, take the exit 9 towards Gent-Centrum. Continue straight onto the N9 road, following the signs for Gent-Centrum. After about 2 kilometers, turn left onto Sint-Veerleplein. Gravensteen will be on your right at Sint-Veerleplein 11, 9000 Gent. Parking is available in nearby parking garages, which may incur costs of around €2 per hour.
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Public Transportation
If you're traveling from Dyle Valley using public transportation, start by taking a local bus to the nearest train station. From there, take a train towards Ghent. The trains run frequently, with a journey time of approximately 30 minutes. Once you arrive at Ghent railway station, exit the train station and take tram line 1 or 4 towards 'Gent Dampoort'. Get off at 'Sint-Pietersstation' stop. From there, it is a 15-minute walk to Gravensteen. Follow the signs towards the city center and head towards Sint-Veerleplein. Gravensteen will be located at Sint-Veerleplein 11, 9000 Gent. Note that tram fares generally cost about €3 for a single ticket.
