Ghent For Couples: Complete Romantic Travel Guide (2026)

Most romantic places in Ghent

Iconic spots for couples — bridges, canals, hidden courtyards and sunset viewpoints ranked by romantic score.

Romantic date ideas in Ghent

Ready-made scenarios for couples — from sunset cruises to spa afternoons.

• 🌅

  Candlelit Dinner at De Graslei

  Enjoy a romantic dinner along the picturesque Graslei, where the ambiance is enhanced by candlelight and the glow of the canals.

• 🌳

  Picnic in Citadelpark

  Pack a picnic and enjoy a serene afternoon in Citadelpark, surrounded by lush greenery and beautiful sculptures.

• 🏰

  Explore the Castle of the Counts

  Wander through the historic Castle of the Counts, imagining tales of knights and princesses while enjoying each other's company.

• 🎨

  Art Appreciation at SMAK

  Visit SMAK for an afternoon of contemporary art, sparking conversations about creativity and inspiration.

• 🌼

  Stroll through the World of Kina Garden

  Wander hand-in-hand through the botanical wonders of the World of Kina Garden, a perfect setting for intimate moments.

• 🍷

  Wine Tasting at a Local Vineyard

  Experience a wine tasting session at a nearby vineyard, savoring local flavors while enjoying a romantic atmosphere.

• 🚤

  Evening Canal Cruise

  Take a romantic evening cruise on the canals of Ghent, soaking in the illuminated cityscape as the sun sets.

• 🕯️

  Dinner at Restaurant De Graslei

  Indulge in a fine dining experience at Restaurant De Graslei, known for its exquisite dishes and cozy atmosphere.

Sunset & viewpoints in Ghent

Ranked by sunset quality, crowd level and photo potential.

• Graslei

  A stunning riverside location where the sunset reflects beautifully on the water.

  Arrive by 20:28 in August

  Sunset rating:

  9/10

  Crowd level:

  Medium

  Photo potential:

  High

  Open in Google Maps

• Citadelpark

  A peaceful park perfect for watching the sunset while enjoying a quiet moment together.

  Arrive by 20:28 in August

  Sunset rating:

  8/10

  Crowd level:

  Low

  Photo potential:

  Medium

  Open in Google Maps

• Castle of the Counts

  The elevated position of the castle offers a breathtaking view of the city as the sun sets.

  Arrive by 20:28 in August

  Sunset rating:

  9/10

  Crowd level:

  Low

  Photo potential:

  High

  Open in Google Maps

• St Bavo's Cathedral

  The intricate architecture of the cathedral is beautifully illuminated during sunset.

  Arrive by 20:28 in August

  Sunset rating:

  8/10

  Crowd level:

  Medium

  Photo potential:

  High

  Open in Google Maps

Sunset & golden hour calendar for Ghent

Mid-month times in Europe/Brussels. Calculated from Ghent's coordinates — not copied from another guide. Longest golden hours: December, January, June.

Romantic restaurants & cafés in Ghent

Fine dining, waterfront tables, rooftops and hidden gems for date night — open in Google Maps to check hours and book.

What couples say about Ghent

Real Google reviews that mention anniversaries, proposals, honeymoons, and date nights — not invented testimonials.

• Danyela C (Eatndrinkntravel)3 months ago

  “Definitely make reservations as they were packed even on a Tuesday evening at 6:30pm, so evidently everyone else thinks their food is good also. Very friendly service, even better food. Great wine and beer list. I was looking for the Flemish beef stew and found a great one here. My partner had a beef brochette with Roquefort sauce and it was great too. Finished off with the duo of chocolate mousse paired with a framboise. So good!! We didn’t have reservations so we had to sit at the bar, but Louis took great care of us (and translated the menu.). We will go back when we return to Ghent in a few weeks.”

  't Oud Clooster

• Roberta Pace Balzan10 months ago

  “Not to be missed especially for meat lovers and maybe even for those who like but not love their meat. I dally in the second category but I must say the tenderloin I had was perfectly cooked, very juicy and tender and I enjoyed every bite. It’s served with delicious crust fries, a very tasty tomato salad, potato tart and broccoli. I shouldn’t forget the starters which were a taste of heaven. My partner and I shared the pork belly (so tender), beef croquette (crunchy on the outside but so soft and flavoursome once you cut through) and because I love my pasta paccheri with ragu (nicely cooked Al dente). The staff were polite and helpful and the ambience was a quiet and relaxing one.”

  Restaurant Gillis

• M T2 months ago

  “We stayed at this hotel for one night last week to celebrate our anniversary. We were not specifically told that our room had been upgraded, but it felt more spacious than we had expected. We were also touched by the chocolates and other thoughtful treats prepared for our anniversary. The gentleman who checked us in was incredibly friendly—I honestly would have loved to chat with him more if he hadn’t been busy with other guests. The room design is quite minimal. I wouldn’t say it is exceptionally stylish or memorable, but it is comfortable and well-appointed. What really makes this hotel stand out are the beautiful communal spaces. The restaurant creates a lively atmosphere. The gardens are spacious and lovely, and having breakfast outdoors in the garden was a good highlight. The spa is also lovely… when there are only adults around…, it feels peaceful and elegant. Although the hotel is located a little outside the city centre, it offers outstanding value for money. Overall, I found it to be an exceptionally well-balanced hotel and would happily stay here again.”

  Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Reylof

• Vishal Kondabathinia month ago

  “Van der Valk Hotel Gent is a modern, upscale hotel located in Ghent, Belgium, holding a strong reputation with a 4.6-star rating. It is known for its cosmopolitan atmosphere, blending luxury amenities with a cozy, welcoming vibe. If you are breaking up a long-distance drive across Europe or looking for a comfortable base for a family trip, it is highly accessible, featuring wheelchair-accessible entrances and parking, and reviewers frequently note that it is very family-friendly. The property features a rooftop bar with excellent views, a high-quality on-site restaurant, a dedicated spa area, and a 24-hour gym. It strikes a great balance—feeling upscale and romantic enough for couples, but casual and accommodating enough for families traveling with children.”

  Van der Valk Hotel Gent

• POOJA SUCHITHRANEdited a year ago

  “✨Citadel Park is a serene oasis that offers a tranquil escape from the chaos of city life. This beautifully maintained park is an ideal destination for individuals, families, and friends looking to spend quality time together or simply unwind in a peaceful atmosphere. One of the standout features of Citadel Park is its safety, making it a perfect spot for visitors of all ages. The park's lush greenery and nature-friendly ambiance are a treat to the senses. The picturesque ponds, home to ducks and various bird species, add to the park's charm, creating a sense of connection with nature. The sound of birds chirping and water gently lapping against the shore creates a soothing melody that calms the mind. The children's park within Citadel Park is a delightful spot for kids, with play equipment that encourages physical activity and imagination. Meanwhile, adults can relax in the designated sitting areas, enjoying the scenery and each other's company. What sets Citadel Park apart is its ability to cater to diverse needs. Whether you're looking to spend a romantic evening with your partner, a fun-filled day with family and friends, or some solo time for self-reflection, this park has something for everyone. In conclusion, Citadel Park is a must-visit destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat amidst nature. Its safety, natural beauty, and amenities make it an ideal spot for relaxation, recreation, and rejuvenation. I highly recommend adding Citadel Park to your list of favorite outdoor spots!”

  Citadelpark

• Ramdas Panicher11 months ago

  “The GUM (Ghent University Museum) and its Botanical Garden in Ghent are awesome! The museum is fun, mixing old science tools, art, and cool ideas. It’s not too big, so exploring is easy and takes about an hour. The Botanical Garden outside is beautiful, with colorful plants and a peaceful vibe. Walking through the garden feels relaxing, with lots of greenery to enjoy. The museum and garden together make a perfect combo of learning and nature. Entry is affordable, and it’s never too crowded. I loved the mix of science, art, and plants. A must-visit spot in Ghent!”

  GUM - Gents Universiteitsmuseum & Plantentuin

Common romantic trip mistakes in Ghent

Ten traps that steal intimacy — and how to avoid them.

1. 1. Dining at Tourist Trap Restaurants

   Avoid dining at heavily advertised places like 'The Old Fish Market' which often serve mediocre food at high prices.

2. 2. Staying in Noisy Areas

   Choose accommodations in quieter neighborhoods like Patershol instead of the bustling city center to ensure a peaceful stay.

3. 3. Not Booking in Advance

   Popular restaurants like Pakhuis can fill up quickly, so make reservations at least a week in advance.

4. 4. Ignoring Local Events

   Check local calendars for events like the Light Festival; missing these can mean missing out on unique experiences.

5. 5. Overlooking Weather Conditions

   Ghent can be rainy; always check the forecast and pack accordingly to avoid being caught unprepared.

6. 6. Underestimating Walking Distances

   Plan your itinerary considering walking distances; some attractions are further apart than they seem.

7. 7. Not Exploring Beyond the Main Attractions

   While places like St Bavo's Cathedral are must-sees, don't miss hidden gems in neighborhoods like Patershol.

8. 8. Forgetting to Experience the Canals

   Many couples miss the chance to take a romantic canal cruise; it's a unique way to see the city.

9. 9. Skipping the Local Cuisine

   Ghent is known for its local dishes; be sure to try specialties like Waterzooi at local restaurants.

10. 10. Not Engaging with Locals

    Engaging with locals can enhance your experience; don't hesitate to ask for recommendations or tips.

How we calculate the Ghent Romantic Score

TripByMood Romantic Score combines live Google Maps signals (ratings, 5★ share, Romantic atmosphere tags, photos) with viewpoint coverage and the city’s golden-hour length from a local solar almanac. Each component is scored 0–10 and weighted; nothing is hand-picked.

Related Ghent guides

• Ghent On a Budget↗
• Ghent Hidden Gems↗
• Ghent Culture↗
• Ghent In Rain↗

Romantic weekends near Ghent

Nearby destinations with their own couples guides — useful for a second city break.

• Brugge romantic↗
• Brussels romantic↗
• Antwerp romantic↗
• Rotterdam romantic↗

Book your romantic Ghent trip

Boutique hotels, memorable evening experiences and spa packages — affiliate links help keep this guide free.