East Flanders, Belgium Travel Guide

Discover East Flanders: A blend of medieval splendor, serene landscapes, and culinary delights in the heart of Belgium.

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East Flanders

East Flanders, nestled in the heart of Belgium, is a region brimming with history, culture, and natural beauty. The area is famed for its picturesque towns, rolling countryside, and vibrant cities that offer a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. Ghent, the capital of East Flanders, is a must-visit with its stunning medieval architecture, bustling markets, and lively cafes. Don't miss the Gravensteen Castle, a well-preserved fortress that offers a glimpse into the region's storied past. The region is also known for its scenic beauty, with numerous parks, rivers, and nature reserves. The Scheldt River meanders through the landscape, providing opportunities for boating, fishing, and riverside walks. The vast fields and forests are ideal for cycling, with many well-marked trails that take you through charming villages and serene landscapes. East Flanders is a gastronomic delight, offering a wide array of local delicacies. From hearty Flemish stews to exquisite chocolates and world-renowned Belgian beers, the culinary scene here is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate. The region's warm and welcoming locals add to the charm, making every visitor feel at home.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring East Flanders.

Visit Ghent early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy the city's beauty in peace.
Rent a bike to explore the countryside and small villages at your own pace.
Try local beers at one of the many cozy pubs; East Flanders is known for its rich brewing tradition.
Check out local markets for fresh produce and handmade crafts. Ghent's Friday Market is a local favorite.
Wear comfortable shoes as many of the streets are cobblestone and perfect for walking tours.

Top City Travel Guides in East Flanders

The cities of East Flanders, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Bruges

Brussels

Ghent

Ostend

Antwerp

Destinations in East Flanders

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Bruges Coast

Ostend Beach

Flemish Ardennes

Hainaut Hills

Explore East Flanders: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in East Flanders

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

VIERNULVIER

Discover the artistic heart of Ghent at VIERNULVIER, a vibrant venue for art, music, and cultural events that inspires creativity and connection.

4.4

Museum voor Schone Kunsten

Discover the rich tapestry of art history at the Museum voor Schone Kunsten in Ghent, where masterpieces from the Middle Ages to modern times await.

4.5

St. Jacob's Church

Discover the stunning Gothic architecture of St. Jacob's Church, a must-visit landmark in Ghent, Belgium, rich in history and artistic beauty.

4.4

Kasteel van Ooidonk

Explore the majestic Kasteel van Ooidonk, a historic castle in Deinze, Belgium, surrounded by beautiful gardens and rich cultural heritage.

4.4

Best landmarks in East Flanders

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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All Landmarks

Gravensteen

Explore the medieval wonder of Gravensteen in Ghent, Belgium, a captivating castle steeped in history and breathtaking views.

4.6

Tall John Abbey Tower

Discover the Tall John Abbey Tower in Middelburg: a historical landmark offering stunning views and rich cultural heritage.

4.3

Geeraard de Duivelsteen

Discover the enchanting Geeraard de Duivelsteen, a medieval fortress in Ghent, where history and architectural beauty intertwine in a captivating experience.

4.3

Belfort van Sluis

Explore the Belfort van Sluis, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and immerse yourself in the rich history and stunning architecture of this charming Dutch town.

4.4

Best restaurants in East Flanders

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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All Restaurants

De Graslei

Experience authentic Belgian cuisine at De Graslei in Ghent, where culinary tradition meets stunning canal views.

4.2

Firenze

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Firenze in Ghent—where traditional flavors meet warm hospitality.

4.5

Greenway Ghent

Discover delicious vegan fast food at Greenway Ghent—where health meets flavor in the heart of Belgium.

4.4

Restaurant Vrijmoed

Discover culinary brilliance at Restaurant Vrijmoed in Ghent - where local ingredients meet artistic flair for an unforgettable fine dining experience.

4.8

Best bars in East Flanders

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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All Bars

Het Waterhuis aan de Bierkant

Experience the best of Belgian beer culture at Het Waterhuis aan de Bierkant in Ghent, a charming beer hall by the canals offering unique local brews.

4.4

't Dreupelkot

Discover the unique flavors of jenever at 't Dreupelkot, a beloved bar in Ghent, offering over 50 exquisite varieties in a cozy atmosphere.

4.6

De Geus van Gent

Experience the authentic taste of Ghent at De Geus van Gent, a charming pub and café offering local cuisine and a vibrant atmosphere.

4.4

De Karper

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at De Karper, Ghent's beloved pub with a wide selection of drinks and delicious fare.

4.5

Best nightclubs in East Flanders

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

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All Nightclubs

Kompass

Dive into the electrifying nightlife of Ghent at Kompass, a premier night club offering unforgettable parties and a vibrant atmosphere.

4.3

Decadance

Dive into Ghent's nightlife at Decadance, where electrifying music and vibrant crowds create unforgettable experiences.

4.0

Abacho

Discover unique nightlife at Abacho, Ghent's top silent disco club offering music, drinks, and unforgettable dancing experiences.

4.3

Club 69

Club 69: Your Gateway to Ghent's Thriving Nightlife with Unforgettable Music and Dancing.

3.4

Best shops in East Flanders

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

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All Shops

Wijnegem - Shop Eat Enjoy

Explore the ultimate shopping and dining experience at Wijnegem - Shop Eat Enjoy, where style meets satisfaction in the heart of Belgium.

4.3

Waasland Shopping Center

Explore Waasland Shopping Center in Sint-Niklaas, a shopping haven featuring diverse stores, delightful dining, and family-friendly entertainment options.

4.3

Shoppingcenter Gent Zuid

Discover Shopping Center Gent Zuid: Your ultimate shopping destination in Ghent, featuring diverse shops, delicious dining, and vibrant entertainment.

3.8

Molecule Koopcenter

Explore the vibrant shopping experience at Molecule Koopcenter in Anzegem, Belgium, where diverse stores and delightful dining await every visitor.

3.9

Explore East Flanders on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in East Flanders, mapped for you.

East Flanders Essentials

East Flanders is easily accessible from various international destinations. The nearest major airport is Brussels Airport (BRU), located about 60 kilometers from Ghent, the capital of East Flanders. From the airport, you can take a direct train to Ghent, which takes approximately 1 hour. Alternatively, you can fly into Antwerp International Airport (ANR), which is about 70 kilometers away. From Antwerp, you can also take a train to Ghent, with a travel time of around 1.5 hours. If you are traveling by car, East Flanders is well-connected by highways and can be reached via the E40, E17, and E34 motorways.
Public transportation in East Flanders is efficient and reliable. The region is well-served by trains, buses, and trams. The main railway station in Ghent is Gent-Sint-Pieters, which connects to other major cities in Belgium and Europe. De Lijn operates an extensive network of buses and trams within the region. For those who prefer to drive, car rental services are available at the airports and in major cities. Biking is also a popular mode of transport, with numerous bike rental shops and dedicated cycling paths.
The official currency in Belgium is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. It is advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller towns and rural areas where card payment facilities may be limited. ATMs are readily available in cities and towns across East Flanders.
East Flanders is generally a safe region for tourists. However, it is always wise to take standard precautions. Petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas, particularly in tourist hotspots such as Ghent and Aalst. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or unfamiliar areas. Keep your belongings secure and be cautious in crowded places.
In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance from police, fire, or medical services. Hospitals and medical facilities in East Flanders are of high quality. Pharmacies are widely available, and many operate on a rotation basis for after-hours services. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest embassy or consulate of your home country.
Fashion: Do dress smart-casual when dining out and more formally for special occasions. Avoid overly casual attire in upscale restaurants. Religion: Do respect religious customs and traditions, especially when visiting churches. Cover your shoulders and knees. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding. Don't be loud or disruptive. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and make eye contact. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties and be open to new flavors. Don't leave your plate unfinished, as it can be seen as rude.
To experience East Flanders like a local, visit the weekly markets in towns such as Ghent, Aalst, and Sint-Niklaas, where you can buy fresh produce and local crafts. Explore the region's cycling routes, which offer scenic views of the countryside. Participate in local festivals and events, such as the Ghent Festivities (Gentse Feesten) in July, to immerse yourself in the local culture. Engage with locals, who are usually friendly and willing to share insights about their region.

When is the best time to visit East Flanders?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for East Flanders

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in East Flanders. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHallo
  [ha-lo]
- GoodbyeTot ziens
  [tot zeens]
- YesJa
  [ya]
- NoNee
  [nay]
- Please/You're welcomeAlstublieft
  [al-stu-bleeft]
- Thank youDank u
  [dank oo]
- Excuse me/SorryExcuseer
  [ex-ku-seer]
- How are you?Hoe gaat het?
  [hoo gaat het]
- Fine. And you?Goed. En jij?
  [hoot. en yay]
- Do you speak English?Spreekt u Engels?
  [spreekt oo en-gels]
- I don't understandIk begrijp het niet
  [ik be-graif het neet]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseIk zou graag de menukaart willen zien, alstublieft
  [ik zow grahkh de me-nu-kart wil-len zeen, al-stu-bleeft]
- I don't eat meatIk eet geen vlees
  [ik eet ghen vles]
- Cheers!Proost!
  [prohst]
- I would like to pay, pleaseIk zou graag willen betalen, alstublieft
  [ik zow grahkh wil-len be-ta-len, al-stu-bleeft]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Ga weg!
  [ga vek]
- Call the Police!Bel de politie!
  [bel de po-li-tie]
- Call a doctor!Bel een dokter!
  [bel een dok-ter]
- I'm lostIk ben verdwaald
  [ik ben ver-dwaald]
- I'm illIk ben ziek
  [ik ben zeek]
- I'd like to buy...Ik wil graag kopen...
  [ik vil grahkh ko-pen]
- I'm just lookingIk kijk gewoon rond
  [ik kayk ge-woon ront]
- How much is it?Hoeveel kost het?
  [hoo-veel kost het]
- That's too expensiveDat is te duur
  [dat is te dur]
- Can you lower the price?Kunt u de prijs verlagen?
  [kunt oo de prijs ver-la-ghen]
- What time is it?Hoe laat is het?
  [hoo laat is het]
- It's one o'clockHet is één uur
  [het is een oor]
- Half past (10)Half tien
  [half teen]
- MorningOchtend
  [okh-tend]
- AfternoonMiddag
  [mid-dahg]
- EveningAvond
  [a-vond]
- YesterdayGisteren
  [gis-te-ren]
- TodayVandaag
  [van-dahg]
- TomorrowMorgen
  [mor-ghen]
- 11
  [een]
- 22
  [twee]
- 33
  [drie]
- 44
  [vier]
- 55
  [vijf]
- 66
  [zes]
- 77
  [zeven]
- 88
  [acht]
- 99
  [negen]
- 1010
  [tien]
- Where's a/the...?Waar is een/de...?
  [vaar is een/de]
- What's the address?Wat is het adres?
  [vat is het a-dres]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Kunt u me (op de kaart) laten zien?
  [kunt oo me (op de kaart) la-ten zeen]
- When's the next (bus)?Wanneer is de volgende (bus)?
  [van-neer is de vol-gen-de (bus)]
- A ticket (to ....)Een ticket (naar ...)
  [een ti-ket (naar ...)]

History of East Flanders

East Flanders, or Oost-Vlaanderen, has its roots in the early medieval period as part of the historic County of Flanders. The region thrived under the rule of the Counts of Flanders, becoming a significant center of trade and commerce. The cities of Ghent and Aalst, in particular, flourished during this time, thanks to the wool trade and textile industries.
Ghent, the capital of East Flanders, rose to prominence in the 10th century and became one of the most important cities in Europe by the 13th century. It was a major hub for the wool and cloth industries, and its wealth was reflected in the construction of grand buildings such as the Saint Bavo's Cathedral and the Belfry of Ghent. Ghent's citizens were known for their spirit of independence, often clashing with the ruling nobility.
In the late 15th century, East Flanders became a focal point of resistance against Archduke Maximilian of Austria. The citizens of Ghent revolted in 1487, refusing to pay taxes imposed by Maximilian. This rebellion was part of a larger conflict known as the Flemish Revolt, which saw the region striving to maintain its autonomy against external rulers.
The Eighty Years' War (1568–1648) significantly impacted East Flanders. This protracted conflict between the Spanish Empire and the Dutch Republic saw numerous battles and sieges in the region. Ghent and other cities in East Flanders suffered greatly during this period, with economic decline and population loss. However, the end of the war and the Treaty of Westphalia in 1648 brought relative peace and recovery.
The Industrial Revolution in the 19th century brought significant changes to East Flanders. Ghent became a center of industrial innovation, particularly in textiles and machinery. The construction of the Ghent-Terneuzen Canal in 1827 enhanced the city's connectivity and spurred economic growth. This period also saw the rise of the socialist movement in the region, advocating for workers' rights and better living conditions.
East Flanders, like much of Belgium, was heavily affected by both World Wars. During World War I, the region was occupied by German forces, and it faced significant destruction and hardship. In World War II, East Flanders again saw occupation, and the city of Ghent was liberated by Allied forces in September 1944. Post-war reconstruction led to modern development, transforming East Flanders into a vibrant region with a mix of historical charm and contemporary innovation.
East Flanders is known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant festivals. The Ghent Festival (Gentse Feesten), held every July, is one of the largest cultural events in Europe, featuring music, theater, and street performances. The region's culinary traditions, including the famous Belgian beers and chocolates, are celebrated and enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. Architectural landmarks, such as the Gravensteen Castle and the Saint Nicholas' Church, attract history enthusiasts from around the world.