Gravensteen: Ghent's Medieval Masterpiece
Explore Gravensteen, Ghent's iconic medieval castle: a journey through Flemish history, torture exhibits, and panoramic city views.
Gravensteen, or the Castle of the Counts, is a formidable medieval castle 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 and museum, offering a glimpse into the region's rich and often turbulent history.
A brief summary to Gravensteen
- Sint-Veerleplein 11, Ghent, Arrondissement of 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
Local tips
- Purchase tickets online in advance to save time, especially during weekends and holidays.
- Allocate 1.5 to 2 hours for a thorough visit, allowing time to explore the main attractions.
- Take the boat tour around the castle for a unique perspective of Gravensteen and the medieval center of Ghent.
- Climb to the top of the keep for breathtaking panoramic views of Ghent.
- Combine your visit with other nearby attractions such as St. Bavo's Cathedral and the Graslei and Korenlei quays.
Getting There
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Walking
Gravensteen is centrally located in Ghent, making it easily accessible on foot from most points in the city center. From Korenmarkt, walk north along the Graslei, cross the bridge, and continue straight onto Sint-Veerleplein. The castle entrance will be directly in front of you. This is a short walk of approximately 5 minutes. No costs involved.
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Public Transport
If arriving by train at Gent-Sint-Pieters station, take tram lines 1, 4, or 24 towards the city center. Get off at the Gravensteen stop, which is a short walk from the castle entrance. Tram tickets cost €2.50 for a single trip when purchased in advance or via SMS. Contactless payment is also available on the tram for €3. A day pass offers unlimited travel.
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Taxi
Taxis are available throughout Ghent, including at the Gent-Sint-Pieters train station. A taxi ride from the station to Gravensteen typically costs around €14.40, based on a base fare of €4.90 and a per-kilometer charge of €1.90. Note that prices may vary depending on the taxi company and time of day.
Discover more about Gravensteen
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Kraanlei
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Patershol
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House Kraanlei 81
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Korenlei
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Graslei
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Gildenhuis van de Vrije Schippers
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Korenmarkt
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Dulle Griet
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Unmissable attractions to see
Castle of the Counts
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Sire van Maldegem
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Sint-Veerleplein
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Lievebrug
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Appelbrugparkje
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't Dreupelkot
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Mural by Strook
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Groot Vleeshuis
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Old Meat Market Hall
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Groentenmarkt
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Au bon vivant
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Design Museum Gent
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Huis van Alijn
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Grasbrug
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Essential places to dine
Maison Elza
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Otomat Gent
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Home Linen
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HEMA
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Café Damberd
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