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Priceless: the sun sets behind the Belfry, the terraces around Ghent's squares and streets fill up, the first bon vivants step into the restaurants. The city whispers, "Get ready for a genuine Ghent evening." Because Ghent offers way too much for a day. And you haven't experienced the real Ghent if you haven't experienced the night.
A true resident of Ghent stays up until the Flower Market
The signal for evening life to start? When Ghent's mood lighting comes on. Not art(ificial) light, but light art. No harsh spotlights, just great highlights. Radiant in the dark, Ghent's buildings, squares and streets really come alive. On your light walk, be sure to stop in one of Ghent's numerous cafes and bars and let a real Ghent native talk you under the table. A discussion with a few jokes along the way reflects the true art of life here.
A whole new aspect of Ghent's cultural life also wakes up as the evening descends. Want to take in a film or theatre show? Put on your most elegant attire and experience opera, or go dancing or singing. Dive into the nightlife until the sun calls you to bed or stick to an apero by the water. Whatever you do, you will never forget Ghent by night.
Stroll along the streets and through the squares of Ghent
Ghent is a true city of movement. You will discover surprising corners and hidden treasures as you walk or cycle around the city. And wherever you go, the city is bustling with life. You'll see that for yourself when you do the light walk. Perfect for an evening stroll, with or without a touch of romance. Thirsty? There is always a cafe or bar nearby, and when the sun is out, it seems like half of Ghent's residents gather around the water for an extended apero.
How about a touch of culture?
There is no shortage of cultural options. Enjoying a film, theatre performance, music or the opera at night will take you to places you can't easily access during the day. The cosy red hall of the KNS (which houses the NTGent), for example. Or enjoy the hi-tech, top-notch, state-of-the-art sound system in the concert hall in the basement of the new Winter Circus. You will also find the oldest concert hall in the world in the Bijloke Music Centre; it is unique in its shape (the roof is like an inverted ship), but is even more special because of its perfect acoustics. No matter where you sit or stand, you will enjoy every musical note.
Ghent parties until the early hours
A blanket and heart-warming conversations; that's all you need in Ghent to spend a cosy evening on a terrace, even in cooler temperatures. Ghent does not deny its Burgundian roots and is bursting with restaurants and cafes. Veggie, vegan, world food or Flemish fare - there is something for every taste, style and wallet. Some outlets are even happy to fill your stomach in the middle of the night. The range expands every day - so you'll need to come back again and again!
Events with an evening vibe
Because Ghent is passionate about the night, it hosts a range of evening events. Activities that stand out under a starry sky. From art by moonlight to exercise after bedtime, the evenings and nights in Ghent always have something magical in store.
Dive into Ghent's nightlife
The city that produced 2ManyDJs and Charlotte De Witte must surely be a good place to party. It is no secret that Ghent's nightlife is of the very highest order. The highlight (by some margin) is of course The Ghent Festivities, where day and night blend seamlessly. Students and the young-at-heart also know that Ghent is a great place to party during the rest of the year, at places like the Overpoort, Vlasmarkt and Oude Beestenmarkt.
Staying in Ghent
Ghent by night; there's just too much to see in one day. Fortunately, you'll find plenty of accommodation options both inside and outside the city centre. From classic hotel through cosy B&Bs and holiday rentals, to hostels... There is a bed for everyone's budget, group size and appetite. We have gathered some licensed accommodation options - all you have to do is search, book and dream about your unforgettable night in Ghent.
