Explore the Tranquil Beauty of the Great Beguinage of Sint-Elisabeth
Discover the serene charm and rich history of the Great Beguinage of Sint-Elisabeth in Ghent, a UNESCO World Heritage gem perfect for peaceful exploration.
Nestled in the heart of Ghent, the Great Beguinage of Sint-Elisabeth is a serene UNESCO World Heritage Site that invites tourists to step back in time and wander through its picturesque cobbled streets and historic buildings. This tranquil enclave, originally established for Beguines—devout women who lived in community while maintaining their independence—offers a unique glimpse into the spiritual and social fabric of medieval life. With its charming gardens, serene atmosphere, and fascinating history, it is an essential stop for any traveler seeking to experience the rich culture of Ghent.
A brief summary to Great Beguinage of Sint-Elisabeth
- Groot Begijnhof 67, Ghent, Sint-Amandsberg, 9040, BE
- +3292282308
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-12 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-12 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-12 pm
Local tips
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience away from crowds.
- Take your time to explore the gardens and sit in the peaceful surroundings.
- Don't forget your camera; the picturesque scenery is perfect for photography.
- Check the local calendar for any special events or tours that may enhance your visit.
- Consider bringing a book to enjoy in the tranquil gardens.
Getting There
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Bus
From Knokke-Heist, walk to the nearest bus stop and take bus number 47 towards Gent. Stay on the bus for about 30 minutes until you reach the 'Gent, Zuid' bus station. From there, transfer to tram line 1 towards 'Lokeren'. After about 20 minutes, get off at the 'Gent, St. Pieters' stop. From here, take bus number 3 towards 'Gent, Zwijnaarde', and get off at 'Gent, Groot Begijnhof' stop. You will find the Great Beguinage of Sint-Elisabeth at Groot Begijnhof 67, just a short walk from the bus stop.
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Train and Tram
Head to the Knokke train station and take a train to Gent-Sint-Pieters station. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes. Once you arrive at Gent-Sint-Pieters, exit the station and walk to the tram stop nearby. Take tram line 1 towards 'Lokeren' and ride it for about 15 minutes. Disembark at 'Gent, St. Pieters' stop, then switch to bus number 3 towards 'Gent, Zwijnaarde'. Get off at 'Gent, Groot Begijnhof' stop. The Great Beguinage of Sint-Elisabeth is a short walk from there.
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Bicycle
If you prefer cycling, you can rent a bicycle in Knokke-Heist. Start by heading towards the main coastal road (Zeelaan) and follow the signs to Gent. The bike route is scenic and takes you through beautiful countryside. It will take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to reach Gent. Once you arrive in Gent, navigate to Groot Begijnhof 67 using a map or a navigation app, which is about a 15-minute ride from the city center.
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