Huis van Alijn: A Journey into 20th-Century Daily Life
Discover 20th-century Belgian life in a unique medieval almshouse. Explore daily life, traditions, and shared memories at Huis van Alijn.
Huis van Alijn, located in a former medieval children's hospital in Ghent, Belgium, offers a captivating glimpse into the daily life and culture of the 20th century. Through its exhibits, the museum explores customs, traditions, and rituals, inviting visitors to rediscover the ordinary moments that shape our lives.
A brief summary to Huis van Alijn
- Kraanlei 65, Ghent, 9000, BE
- +3292353800
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Visit on a weekday for a more peaceful experience, as weekends tend to be busier.
- Check the museum's schedule for special events and temporary exhibitions to enhance your visit.
- Don't miss the museum's charming café for a relaxing break.
Getting There
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Walking
Huis van Alijn is located in the heart of Ghent, near the Vrijdagmarkt and Gravensteen castle, making it easily accessible on foot. From Korenmarkt, walk towards the Sint-Michielsbrug bridge, cross it, and continue along Groentenmarkt street. You'll find Huis van Alijn on your left at Kraanlei 65.
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Public Transport
From Gent-Sint-Pieters train station, take tram 4 to the 'Gent Sluizeken' stop, followed by a short 350m walk to Huis van Alijn. Alternatively, take tram 1 or 3 to 'Gent Koophandelsplein' and walk 1 km. From Gent-Dampoort station, take bus 10, 11, or 12a/12b to the 'Gent Sint-Jacobs' stop, then walk 500m towards Vrijdagmarkt, cross the Zuivelbrugje bridge, and turn left onto Kraanlei. A single tram or bus fare costs approximately €3.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Ghent. A taxi ride from Gent-Sint-Pieters train station to Huis van Alijn typically costs between €14 and €27, depending on traffic and the time of day. Ride-sharing services like Uber also operate in Ghent.
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Parking
If arriving by car, be aware that Huis van Alijn is located in a pedestrian zone with limited parking. The nearest paid parking is P Vrijdagmarkt, but access may be affected by ongoing roadworks until late June 2025. Consider using a Park & Ride on the city's outskirts and taking public transport to the museum. Parking at P Vrijdagmarkt costs approximately €1.80 for 1 hour and €3.60 for 2 hours.
Discover more about Huis van Alijn
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
House Kraanlei 81
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Discover the enchanting beauty of House Kraanlei 81, a historical gem nestled along Ghent's scenic canals, rich with architectural heritage.
Kraanlei
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Kunsthal Gent
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Hof van Rijhove
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Toreken
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Werregarenstraat
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Graffiti Street
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Grasbrug
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Hoogpoort
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Wonen in klooster - Augustijnenklooster
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Design Museum Gent
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Korenmarkt
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Graslei
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Ghent City Hall
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Korenlei
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Unmissable attractions to see
Groot Kanon
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A massive, never-fired 15th-century cannon in Ghent, known as 'Mad Meg,' standing as a silent witness to the city's vibrant history.
Zuivelbrugstraat
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Patershol
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't Dreupelkot
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Discover the charm of 't Dreupelkot in Ghent, where authentic Belgian jenever meets a cozy atmosphere, perfect for tourists seeking local flavor.
Kleine Vismarkt
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Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Kleine Vismarkt in Ghent, where culinary delights and historical charm meet for an unforgettable visit.
Vrijdagmarkt
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Sint-Veerleplein
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Dulle Griet
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Jacob van Artevelde
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Sire van Maldegem
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Groentenmarkt
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Calle Langemunt
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Gravensteen
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Castle of the Counts
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Brouwbar
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Essential places to dine
Valentijn
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Souplounge
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't Klaverblad
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't Klokhuys
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De Acht Zaligheden
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Vier Tafels
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Amadeus Gent 1 (Patershol)
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Heritage
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Karel de Stoute
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Roots
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Otomat Gent
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Frites Atelier | Gent
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Godot
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Restaurant De Rave
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Uncle Babe's
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Louise & Madeleine
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Department Gent
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Vandezande - Martine
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Wunderkammer Gent
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Geschenken - Mus in een plas
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CASA Gent Korenmarkt
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Bookz&Booze Gent
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HEMA
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The Fallen Angels
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ICI PARIS XL
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C&A
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Kaat Tilley Experience Store
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Home Linen
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Houthuis Gent - Retro Shop
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tinedegroote
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Rococo
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Zoo Cafe
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Jigger's
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Het Waterhuis aan de Bierkant
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Hot Club de Gand
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't Galgenhuis
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Café Oud Patershol
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De Alchemist
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The mix
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White Cat
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Folklore
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Bar Lume
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Bar Popular
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Woody's
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De Maecht van Ghent
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