The Book Tower: Ghent's Tower of Wisdom
Explore Ghent's iconic Book Tower: a modernist architectural marvel housing millions of books with panoramic city views from its belvedere.
The Boekentoren, or Book Tower, is a striking modernist masterpiece designed by Henry van de Velde for Ghent University. Housing over 3 million books, this 64-meter concrete structure is a prominent landmark on Ghent's skyline, offering panoramic city views from its belvedere.
A brief summary to Book Tower
- Rozier 9, Ghent, Arrondissement of Ghent, 9000, BE
- +3292643851
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-8 pm
- Thursday 8 am-8 pm
- Friday 8 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Check the official website for information on guided tours and access to the Belvedere, as it may be limited.
- Visit the Book Tower on a sunny day to fully appreciate the panoramic views of Ghent from the top.
- Explore the courtyards surrounding the Book Tower, including the Japanese courtyard, for a peaceful escape.
Getting There
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Walking
The Book Tower is located on the Blandijnberg, easily accessible from Ghent's city center. From Korenmarkt, a central square, walk southwest along the Veldstraat, then turn left onto the Voldersstraat. Continue onto the Ottogracht, then turn right onto the Sint-Pietersnieuwstraat. Turn left onto the Rozier. The Book Tower will be on your left. The walk is approximately 15 minutes. No costs are associated with walking.
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Public Transport
Ghent has an excellent public transport system. From Gent-Sint-Pieters railway station, take tram line 1 towards Korenmarkt. Get off at the Korte Meer stop. From there, walk along the Voldersstraat, continue onto the Ottogracht, then turn right onto the Sint-Pietersnieuwstraat. Turn left onto the Rozier. The Book Tower will be on your left. A single ticket costs €2.50 if purchased in advance or €3 if purchased on the tram.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Ghent. From Gent-Sint-Pieters railway station, a taxi to the Book Tower will take approximately 10 minutes, depending on traffic. Taxi stands are located at the station. The estimated fare is €14.4, with a starting price of €4.9 and €1.9 per kilometer.
Discover more about Book Tower
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