Gravensteen Castle: A Medieval Fortress in Ghent
Explore Gravensteen Castle in Ghent: A historic fortress with medieval architecture, torture museum, and panoramic city views.
Gravensteen, or the Castle of the Counts, is a well-preserved medieval fortress in the heart of Ghent, Belgium. Built in 1180 by Count Philip of Alsace, it served as the residence of the Counts of Flanders until 1353. Today, it stands as a major landmark, offering visitors a glimpse into medieval life, justice, and architecture.
A brief summary to Gravensteen
- Sint-Veerleplein 11, Ghent, 9000, BE
- Click to display
- Click to display
- 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
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Gravensteen.
- Purchase tickets online in advance to skip the line, especially during peak season.
- Allocate 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore the castle and its exhibits.
- Take advantage of the free audio guide, which is both informative and entertaining.
- Wear comfortable shoes for climbing stairs and walking on uneven surfaces.
- Combine your visit with a boat tour around the castle for a unique perspective.
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
Getting There
-
Walking
Gravensteen Castle is centrally located in Ghent, making it easily accessible on foot from many of the city's main attractions. From the Korenmarkt, walk north towards the Sint-Veerleplein, where the castle is located. The walk is short and offers views of the city's historic architecture.
-
Public Transport
If arriving by train at Gent-Sint-Pieters station, take tram line 2 to the Gravensteen/Veerleplein stop. Tram lines 1, 3, and 4 also stop within walking distance of the castle. A single tram ticket costs €2.50 if purchased from the tram driver or €3 if purchased in advance. Contactless payment is also available on trams and buses for €3 per ride.
-
Parking
Ghent's city center is largely car-free, so driving directly to Gravensteen is not possible. Several public car parks are located near the castle, including P1 at Friedok Mart, P7 at St. Michaels, and P8 at Ramen. Parking fees vary, but expect to pay around €2-3 per hour. Park and Ride facilities are available on the outskirts of the city, with tram connections to the center. Be aware of Ghent's Low Emission Zone (LEZ); register your car if it does not have a Belgian or Dutch number plate.
Discover more about Gravensteen
Explore the best of what Gravensteen has to offer
More about Fagne Famenne
Discover the serene beauty of Fagne-Famenne in Belgium, where rolling hills, lush forests, and charming villages offer a perfect blend of nature and culture.
Tell me more about Fagne Famenne
Explore the rich history and vibrant culture of Sint-Veerleplein in Ghent, a stunning medieval landmark surrounded by charming architecture.
Explore Sire van Maldegem, a historical landmark in Ghent, Belgium, rich in architectural beauty and cultural significance, perfect for history enthusiasts.
