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Your perfect Ghent itinerary for Belgium’s most underrated city

October 28, 2019 by Karen Turner 1 Comment

Despite coming to Belgium so many times, I’ve definitely fallen in love with Ghent. This charming Belgian city has so much to do and after some day trips and finally a long weekend in Ghent, I’ve created an itinerary for visiting Ghent for first-timers highlighting the best things to do in Ghent. Needless to say, I’ll be back soon and I’m disappointed for not discovering Ghent sooner!

Ghent has a fairly compact city center, so if you find reasonable accommodations in the city center, you’ll be able to walk almost everywhere that you need to go! I strongly recommend staying overnight as otherwise, you won’t be able to stay out late to experience Ghent’s nightlife with a side of Flemish fries. It’s worth the overnight stay, trust me!

On my recent trip with friends, we stayed at the recently renovated Huize Maeterlinck right near Graffitistraat. It was clean, convenient, and basic. You can also find less expensive options, including a hostel ( Hostel Uppelink ) that sits in one of the most beautiful buildings in Ghent with a view that many would kill for! On the other end, if you’re looking for something more luxurious, consider splurging on 1898 The Post for the five-star experience.

Getting to Ghent is easy from many places in Belgium and the Netherlands. Gent-Sint-Pieters is the main train station linking Ghent to Brussels , Antwerpen , and also Amsterdam . If you’re on a budget, you can take Flixbus to Ghent from the Netherlands (Amsterdam) for less than lunch each way! (I paid 9 euros on this trip!) It’s a short tram or taxi ride to the center or about a 30-minute walk.

• 1.1 “Lunch” and a waffle
• 1.2 Step into Groot Vleeshuis
• 1.3 Gravensteen
• 1.4 Watch the sunset along the river
• 1.5 Dinner in Patershol
• 1.6 Beers (or music!)
• 1.7 Frites after dark at Ghent’s best frites bar*
• 2.1 Breakfast
• 2.2 Enjoy the Ghent altarpiece without the crowds
• 2.3 Climb the Belfry of Ghent
• 2.4 Sample Gent’s world-famous noses, mustard, and artisanal chocolate
• 2.5 Enjoy Graffiti Street
• 2.6 Browse for books and fun souvenirs
• 2.7 Borrelen
• 3 Have you been to Ghent? Let me know your favorite things to do in Ghent!

One day in Ghent: Classic Ghent

“lunch” and a waffle.

Ghent is constantly changing and every trip has included stopping off at the various pop-up restaurants along Hoogpoort . This trendy street is full of many international and Belgian influenced food. We ended up stopping off at a Mexican pop-up, which did not disappoint. Mosquito Coast is a favorite among locals with its fun travel-inspired decorations and international menu.

You’ll want to save room for a Belgian waffle. Personally, I prefer the Liege-style waffle over the Brussels-style one. You have plenty of choice for waffles, but a good waffle place will be making them fresh for you. I ended up picking one up from Bakery Himschoot , one of the oldest bakeries in Gent. Next to Bakery Himschoot, you’ll find a stand selling Gentse Neuzen (Gent Noses). These sweet candies are soft with a jelly-like interior and fruit flavors. It’s five euros for a bag and they won’t last long…

Step into Groot Vleeshuis

Foodies should definitely step into the Great Butcher’s Hall ( Groot Vleeshuis ). (Vegetarians, don’t be too afraid!) This beautiful 15th-century former guild house and covered market is a delight to browse. If you’re looking for a snack or a local meal that you can’t find anywhere else, you can sample more than 175 regional products from Flanders here. Entry is free if you want to peek inside (and if you’re full!), however, you can pay for any of the food with a credit/debit card within the restaurant.

Gravensteen

This was my second time at Gravensteen. This epic medieval castle is one of my favorite castle museums in Europe and when my friends visited, I knew that they had to experience this attraction in Ghent. As you go through the castle, you get a good glimpse into the brutality of medieval life in this part of the world.

Recently, they’ve renovated the audio tour to be led by a local Gent comedian. The result is a silly tour through the castle that will make you giggle a lot. The audio tour is worth doing although it’s sometimes a bit at odds with the dark history within the castle. It’s easy to spend at least 2-3 hours within the castle and its grounds. Be sure to enjoy the stunning view of Ghent from the rooftop.

You need to be able to walk well as it’s a lot of stairs as you walk through the main route. If you’re claustrophobic, some parts of the castle will be a bit difficult as the stairways can be very narrow. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as the cobblestones can be slippery at times… Tickets with an audio guide cost 10 euros for adults. You can buy them in advance for specific time slots, which is best during weekends.

Watch the sunset along the river

Ghent is so beautiful at night. We stayed two nights in Ghent and each night, we ended up wandering down to the Leie to admire the stunning former guild houses along the riverside. Ghent was a major player in the textile trade, which brought much wealth within the medieval period. Many of these guild houses are cafes, restaurants, and hotels today. The best views are from Kraanlei . In the summer, you’ll want to grab a snack and a drink to enjoy at a picturesque spot along the river.

Dinner in Patershol

You’ll have plenty of great options for dinner in the Patershol neighborhood, which is the upcoming neighborhood of Ghent. Whether you’re craving traditional Belgian food at ‘t Klokhuys or sushi, there’s something for everyone.

Beers (or music!)

The beauty of Ghent’s nightlife scene is that there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of slightly divey neighborhood bars ( De Croone ), drinking giant beers shamelessly as a tourist ( Dulle Griet ), old-school Flemish bars filled with wood ( Trollekelder ) , a quiet night discussing books over wine ( Le Bal ), or just want to dance the night away ( Charlatan ), Ghent has something for everyone. Just be prepared that many bars are cash only . The local craft beer is Gruut, which can be found at most bars. I also am a fan of the Gentse Tripel!

As veteran beer lovers, we loved the rule of taking one shoe off to order the giant beers at Dulle Griet although you can certainly find slightly better prices at other establishments such as the Trollekelder if you’re a serious drinker. (Still, the beer selection was sublime at both!) Our favorite experience as a group was at one of the beautiful neighborhood bars that we stepped into–and didn’t leave until closing.

Frites after dark at Ghent’s best frites bar*

At the recommendation of our host, we ended up going to Frituur Sint-Jacobs for the best fries in Ghent, if not Belgium. We had fries a few other times and I was a fan of them. (Disclosure: We already had a few beers before coming here.) I liked the fries with samurai sauce, which was definitely a generous portion. They do not accept credit cards, so bring cash with you.

Second day in Ghent

Wake up early (or late) for a lazy breakfast at one of the more interesting brunch restaurants that we went to in Ghent, WASBAR . This combination of a laundromat with a brunch restaurant is a bit bizarre, but it works. The food is good and they accept credit cards.

Enjoy the Ghent altarpiece without the crowds

The Ghent Altarpiece is housed within the Saint Bavo Cathedral , a bit outside of the city center. It’s a short walk from the city center. Although the church itself is free to visit, you need to pay 4 euros in order to see the altarpiece itself. Check the hours carefully as you cannot visit while Sunday services are occurring. Photos aren’t allowed within the church (not my photo above!), however, be sure to climb the tower for beautiful views over Ghent!

The Ghent Altarpiece showcases the story of the Mystic Lamb of the Resurrection on an altarpiece. The real story of this piece of art, which is one of the most stolen art pieces in art history, is a must-read online beforehand. While you’re within the cathedral, be sure to explore this beautiful Gothic church with a Romanesque crypt.

Climb the Belfry of Ghent

Belgium’s many belfries are included within UNESCO’s World Heritage List for their important role in preserving architecture in the Roman, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. These towers are a testament to the history and pride of each city that they’re in within Belgium, including Ghent. In Ghent, the Belfry sits in the middle of the city allowing for stunning views of the historic city center. Within this 91-meter tower, you can see Ghent’s original city mascot, the dragon, displayed.

We were not lucky enough to hear one of the carillon concerts (check the schedule, but Sunday mornings are a sure bet!), however, we were still able to enjoy the inner workings of the carillon. Entry costs 8 euros for adults (2019/2020) and the site is mostly accessible to those with handicaps. Otherwise, you’ll need to climb all 350 stairs. It’s steep, but worth the trek. We spent about an hour inside of the belfry and learned quite a bit about the history of the city.

Sample Gent’s world-famous noses, mustard, and artisanal chocolate

Although people automatically associate Brussels with chocolate , Ghent has much to offer. After all, you are in Belgium. Ghent has a number of artisanal chocolate shops producing high-quality chocolate in-house. My favorites were Chocolaterie Cédric Van Hoorebeke (pictured above), Chocolaterie Luc Van Hoorebeke , and Van Hecke F Chocolatiere . You don’t need a chocolate tour to experience these. Simply, drop by and pick out a few chocolates that look good. (The staff speaks good English if you’re unsure what to pick.) This was easily my favorite activity in Ghent!

Enjoy Graffiti Street

On Werregarenstraat, you’ll find tons of the latest graffiti from local artists and more famous artists such as Roa (also seen in Doel ). It’s worth a stroll if you love street art and perfectly embodies the creative spirit of Ghent!

Browse for books and fun souvenirs

Ghent is full of cool shops and it’s clear that this Belgian city is at the forefront of design. Be sure to browse some of the cool shops around for interesting souvenirs. I especially loved the Books & Booze bookstore and liquor store. For vintage-inspired fashions with a modern take, head to SeventyOne Ghent. You’ll also find many independent bookstores with a decent selection in Dutch and English.

In this part of Belgium and also in the Netherlands, there’s a separate meal-time for drinks and snacks in the late afternoon/early evening. Stop off at a cozy bar for a cozy drink possibly accompanied by some bar snacks (such as bitterballen). We stopped off at one of the oldest bars in Ghent, Café Den Turk for a beer. The bar itself has seen so much history in Ghent and it’s incredible that you can still just drop in for a beer. It’s cash-only.

Have you been to Ghent? Let me know your favorite things to do in Ghent!

• More places not to miss in Belgium!
• Your perfect Belgian itinerary
• One day in Antwerp itinerary
• A weekend in Brussels
• Chocolate in Brussels
• Doel: Flander’s almost abandoned city

About Karen Turner

New Yorker–born and raised. Currently living in the Hague, the Netherlands after stints in Paris and Amsterdam. Lover of travel, adventure, nature, city, dresses, and cats.

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Ultimate Travel Guide to Ghent

Ghent, Belgium is a port city in the East Flanders region. It’s one of the top Belgian university towns, which means you’ll find a creative, young crowd here amongst all of the looming medieval towers.

During the Middle Ages, Ghent was one of the largest and wealthiest cities in Europe. While it’s a little more lowkey these days, it remains a fascinating and evolving place with a lot of history and architecture to appreciate. 

Read through this travel guide to find out what to do in Ghent, as well as what to eat, where to stay, and how to make your way around the city. You may even learn a few useful travel tips!

This ultimate travel guide to Ghent will show you all the most beautiful places in Ghent, what to expect when visiting, where to stay in Ghent and things to do in Ghent which will help you in planning a trip to Ghent.

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Table of Contents

How to get to Ghent

The closest airport to Ghent is Brussels Airport in Zaventem. From the airport, you can take a train straight to Ghent.

Ghent has six railway stations, though Ghent Sint-Pieters is where you’ll arrive if you’re coming from Brussels. Depending on the time of day, the trip can take 55 minutes to an hour and a half.

If you’re already within the city of Brussels , you can depart from Brussels Central Station. Arriving from a different Belgian city? The train from Bruges takes about 25 minutes, while a trip from Antwerp is just under an hour. 

What to expect in Ghent

There are many official languages in Belgium, including French, Dutch and German. Since Ghent is located in the province of Flanders, residents speak Flemish Dutch.

As a tourist, you’ll be able to get along fine only speaking English, as most locals are fluent in English as well. 

Belgium is a member of the European Union and uses the euro as its currency . A 10 to 15 per cent service charge is usually added to the bill at restaurants, so it’s not necessary to leave an extra tip. 

How to get around Ghent

You’ll be amazed at how well organised the public transport system in Ghent is. The network of buses and trams throughout the city are reliable and extensive.

If you purchase a Ghent CityCard , you can catch any tram and bus for free. To look up route maps in advance and plan your journey, head to the De Lijn website, which luckily has an English version. 

With the CityCard, you can also rent a bicycle for free for an entire day. All you have to pay is a €40 deposit, which will be refunded once you safely return your bike to the hire point.

Biking is a fun way to explore the winding streets of Ghent, particularly when you don’t have a destination in mind.

Walk as much as you can around the old town so that you can soak up the laid-back atmosphere and appreciate every bit of architecture.

The best time to visit Ghent

Tourism is at its busiest around mid-summer to early autumn, so there will be bigger crowds and increased prices during this time. June is an ideal time to visit Ghent if you want warm weather without the hordes of people. 

Mid to late December is also a busy time of year but can be a wonderful experience nonetheless. If you’re hoping to spend Christmas or New Year’s Eve in Ghent, you’ll be delighted at the abundance of festive activities and the winter wonderland vibes.

Of course, you should book in advance to avoid missing out on the best hotels or tours.

Spring is an affordable and lively time of year in Ghent too. Getting out and exploring a new city while the flowers are in bloom and the weather is beginning to warm up is always enjoyable.

Things to do in Ghent

The first thing you should do in Ghent is pick up a Ghent CityCard . As you already know, the card includes free public transport, but what else does it offer? Pay a small upfront price to get into all of the top attractions and skip the long lines.

A card valid for 48 hours costs €30, or for €5 extra you can buy the 72-hour card. It’s easy to pick one up, as they are sold at the Ghent Tourist Office, most museums, participating hotels, and all public transport sales points.

You’ll also receive a handy attractions map, which will become one of your essential travel resources on the go.

Once you’ve purchased your CityCard, what are the best things to do in Ghent ? Here are some of the top suggestions for sights to see and fun Ghent activities:

Admire Saint Bavo’s Cathedral

Saint Bavo’s Cathedral is a magnificent Gothic architectural gem in the old town. Constructed in the late 13th-century, it is the oldest parish church in Ghent and is easily identified by its 89-metre-tall tower. It is also home to an 18th-century 6,000-pipe organ, which is the largest in the Benelux.

While the exteriors are stunning, the cathedral is even more impressive inside. You’ll find yourself marvelling at the black and red flamed marble naves and the star-shaped rib-vaulted ceiling.

Visit the Mystic Lamb

The Ghent Altarpiece, commonly referred to as the Mystic Lamb, is the most stolen artwork of all time. It’s fascinating to learn about the history of this beloved piece, which was once taken by Napoleon and sought after by the Nazis.

This giant polyptych from the 15th century is made up of 12 panels, each depicting a different Catholic figure or scene.

Brothers Hubrecht and Jan van Eyck spent almost a decade completing these panels, which include Adam and Eve, the Virgin Mary, and St John the Evangelist. The panel of the Just Judges has been missing since 1934.

The Mystic Lamb is currently on display at Saint Bavo’s Cathedral and is without a doubt one of the top things to see in Ghent.

Learn about the Gravensteen Castle

One of the best things to do in Ghent is to check out the imposing Gravensteen Castle . This fortified structure was built in 1180 to house the Counts of Flanders.

Since 1353, it has been used as a court, a prison, a cotton factory, and a mint. As a result of its torturous and barbaric history, the castle was almost torn down. Ultimately, a preservation group realised its architectural significance, and it has since become a museum.

Today, you can tour the medieval castle , which is surrounded by a moat on three sides. The Arms Museum and the Museum of Judicial Objects display various weaponry from the castle’s dark past, including crossbows, spearheads, shackles, and a guillotine.

The audio guide is captivating and informative, and is available in multiple different languages. 

Explore the Belfry of Ghent

Another significant medieval structure in the city is the Ghent Belfry. The 14th-century bell tower is 91 metres tall and is a recognizable part of Ghent’s skyline.

It was originally used as a watchtower, and the bells would warn residents of incoming threats in addition to announcing the time. 

The 18th-century rotating drum in the tower plays a tune every hour. There are four different songs currently programmed, which are changed by the city carillonneur every two years.

For €8, you can climb the spiral stone staircase of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are various bells and chimes to look at on the way up, though the real reason to get to the top is for the amazing views over the old town. 

Get to know Ghent at STAM

If you’re eager to learn about Ghent and its long history, the Ghent City Museum (or STAM) is one attraction you shouldn’t miss. As one of the most thorough and modern museums in the city, STAM is best known for the Story of Ghent.

This permanent exhibit chronologically showcases Ghent’s history since the Middle Ages. This digital trip through time utilises 300 different collection pieces, and there’s an English audio guide available to enhance your experience.

See Saint Nicholas’ Church

Stop by one of Ghent’s most prominent structures, Saint Nicholas’ Church. Built during the 13th century, the blue Tournai stone structure is a great example of Scheldt Gothic architecture. Step inside and see the colourful stained glass windows, a beautiful 19th-century addition to the church.

Hop aboard the water tram

Ghent’s hop-on, hop-off water tram is a fun and different way to see the city. The water tram stops at six main locations: Veldstraat, Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, Saint Peter’s Abbey, the Museum Site, Graslei-Korenlei, and the Gravensteen Castle.

It can be a relaxing and pleasant way to rest your legs while still appreciating the beauty of the city. If you have the Ghent CityCard, it’s completely free as well.

Relax at Citadelpark

After you’ve wandered the cobblestone streets for a while, you might be looking for a little bit of nature.

During the day, this beautiful green park is a pleasant oasis shaded by ancient tall trees. Why not put together a picnic from the local market and enjoy a peaceful outdoor lunch here?

What to eat in Ghent

The people of Flanders love to get together and share a delicious meal. Fortunately, the superb restaurants and street-side eateries in Ghent make this easy. Here are some of the most well-known local dishes, as well as recommendations for where you can try them:

• Belgian waffles: The iconic dessert that Belgium is known for, made with a lighter batter and larger squares than typical American waffles. For the best in the city, stop by Brasserie Agrea , Mokabon or Max Cafe . Be sure to enjoy with strawberries, chocolate sauce, powdered sugar, whipped cream or caramelised bananas.
• Pommes frites: Potato fries, another Belgian classic! The locals love to eat their hot chips with unique sauces like andalouse, which is made with mayonnaise, tomato paste and peppers. De Frietketel and Frituur Jozef serve up some of the best pommes frites in Ghent. If you’re at a restaurant, you can also order moules frites to have your fries arrive with a side of mussels.
• Waterzooi: A stew originating from Flanders with a thick, creamy vegetable-based broth. Traditionally it is made with fish, though chicken is more commonly used these days. Vegetables and herbs such as carrots, onions, leeks, potatoes, parsley and sage can also be included in the dish. Vier Tafels and ‘t Vosken both serve a delicious and authentic version.
• Flemish hotchpotch: A meat stew with boiled vegetables, and quite different from the mashed hotchpotch you’ll find in the Netherlands. Order this warming dish at Du Progres or ‘t Klokhuys .

Where to stay in Ghent

You won’t find super cheap backpacker prices in Ghent, yet there are still some affordable places to stay that won’t break the bank. Ibis Budget Gent Centrum Dampoort is a superb option that provides incredible value for money.

The rooms are modern and clean, and there’s an open communal area to eat breakfast and socialise with fellow travellers.

The location is about a 15-minute walk away from the historic centre. However, it’s only a few hundred metres from the Gent Dampoort train station, making it a perfect spot to stay for day trips . 

If you want to spend a little more but not go crazy, Hotel Carlton is ideal. The friendly staff who will instantly remember your name will have you feeling at home in no time.

The comfortable and cosy rooms feature a relaxing bath for you to soak in after a long day of sightseeing. The hotel is only 200 metres from Ghent Saint Peter’s railway station, and the peaceful Citadelpark is right around the corner.

For the most luxurious and memorable stay, 1898 The Post is the obvious choice. An old post office is the setting of one of Ghent’s most enchanting boutique hotels.

The deep emerald green walls, dark wood floors and antique furniture create a unique atmosphere you won’t find anywhere else in the city.

If you’re visiting Belgium during the colder months, you’ll definitely appreciate the open fireplace and inviting bar. The location is perfect too, situated by the Leie River near St Michael’s Bridge.

Tours to do in Ghent

There’s no better way to see a new city than with a walking tour. Head out on a free Ghent city walk and find out what the residents truly think about their home.

As well as visiting the must-see attractions, you’ll be shown the best local spots to eat, drink and have a great night out. Hear about the urban myths and legends behind the churches and squares, and get to know what makes Ghent unique.

Aside from chocolate and waffles, Belgium is known for its beer. Have a fun night out and join a two-and-a-half-hour beer tasting tour.

You’ll visit some of the city’s best bars and sample their finest selection of local beers, all while learning about Belgian brewing history. Tasty cheeses and other snacks are also included.

Day trips from Ghent

As pointed out earlier, Ghent is close to many other great Belgian cities. You can embark on a short, impromptu day trip to Bruges even if you sleep in late!

There are a ton of fun tours to join in this picture-perfect city. A two-hour walking tour with a local guide can show you around the colourful neighbourhoods and winding canals, pointing out the best historic sites in the city.

Afterwards, stop by the local market and taste some Belgian chocolate. A private medieval tour is a must for lovers of history.

Learn about the myths of the Minnewater Park lakes and visit Burg Square while hearing about more dark folklore tales.

Want to visit Antwerp for the day instead? Don’t miss a two-hour Legends of Antwerp tour. Explore the historic centre and learn about the city’s Golden Age.

Visit the Grote Markt, the Vleeshuis, the Rubens House, the Cathedral of Our Lady, Plantin-Moretus Museum and even more. Be sure to check out our Ultimate Travel Guide to Antwerp or 22 Things to do in Antwerp articles for even more tips and recommendations. 

Recommended tours in Ghent

• 2,5h Authentic Beer Tasting Journey Ghent
• Guided Boat Trip in Ghent
• Belfort of Ghent Entrance Ticket
• Public Chocolate Tour, with a local guide!
• Experience Authentic Belgian Cuisine: Cooking Lesson and Meal with a Ghent Local

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Sam, a seasoned traveler across four continents and 49 countries, is a leading authority in travel planning. Her website, Travelling King, offers tailored itineraries and expert guides for seamless trips. Sam's expertise in luxury travel, fast travel, and destination guides keeps her at the forefront of the travel community.

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A guide to Ghent, Belgium's rebellious, unsung city

Youthful and rebellious, Ghent is stepping out of Bruges’s shadow as a Belgian canal-side classic

In the 16th century, Ghent lost it all on the wrong bet. Built around rivers and canals, it was Europe’s second-largest urban centre, falling just behind Paris. When Holy Roman Emperor Charles V, who ruled over Belgium, raised taxes to fund military action abroad, the city refused to pay out. They’d already given a fair share, locals argued, and surely Charles, who had been born in Ghent, wouldn’t turn on his home. In response, he marched into the city with his army, stripping it of its finery and parading its leaders in their undershirts, nooses around their necks.  

Today, you can find evidence of the city’s illustrious past in its historical centre, home to a UNESCO-listed belfry and the Gravensteen, a stone fortress said to have been inspired by Crusader castles. And while its heyday is now behind it, Ghentians proudly tell the story of their fall from grace as proof of their rebellious streak.  

This spirit survived, the sign of a place that’s at ease with its identity: socially conscious and full of fresh ideas. Initiatives like Nucleo are repurposing empty spaces into artists’ studios, and inviting the public to peer in once a year — in 2024, the open day is on 5 May. Meanwhile, chefs are experimenting with the earth’s pantry, casting Ghent as a European vegetarian capital. This energy is partly due to it being Flanders’ biggest university city: out of some 267,000 residents, over a quarter are students. This ensures a near endless supply of speciality-roast coffee in the Overpoort student district, and nightlife ranging from candle-lit wine bars to sweaty warehouses, reverberating with the kind of techno more often associated with Berlin.  

The city was named 2024 European Youth Capital by the European Youth Forum — and it’s no surprise. In April, it will celebrate the accolade as part of the biennial Ghent International Festival, which will feature opera as well as dancers on roller-skates. Events will continue throughout the year, with locals as young as 15 invited to contribute ideas. As for what they’ll come up with, all bets are off.

What to see and do

1. Historic quays If you’ve seen photos of Ghent before, chances are they’re of the Graslei and Korenlei. Once the city’s centre of trade, these quays remain a hub of activity, lined with cafe terraces and moorings for boat tours. They’re the gateway to the historical centre, as well as the neighbourhoods of Patershol, a former working-class district turned culinary hotspot, and Prinsenhof, a residential area that was once home to royalty.

2. The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb This altarpiece by the Van Eyck brothers is the most stolen artwork of all time — it was even robbed by Napoleon, and over the years, it’s been forged and almost destroyed. It marked the transition from Middle Ages to Renaissance in Flemish art: admire its genre-defining details at St Bavo’s Cathedral , where a VR tour leads visitors through its history.

3. Street art Ever since a historical centre passageway — now known as Graffiti Alley — was given over to street artists in the 1990s, murals have claimed Ghent like vines. Free to download, the ‘Sorry, Not Sorry’ map pinpoints some of the most famous. Pieces from homegrown talent include the rabbits by big-name ROA on Tempelhof and the foxes on Napoleon Destanbergstraat, which helped artist Kitsune make a name for herself.  

4. Dok Noord In the city’s northern reaches, an old factory complex has been turned into Dok Noord, one of Ghent’s newest leisure and office developments. Its main draw is Hal 16, a food hall in a former brick warehouse. Try barbecued dishes or Italian specialities including mafaldine pasta with octopus ragu, then quench your thirst at Dok Brewing Company. There are 30 beers on tap, but Waar is Loca, a pale ale brewed on site, is a crowd favourite.  

5. Museum of Industry Belgium was the first country in mainland Europe where the Industrial Revolution took hold. Housed inside a former cotton mill, this museum traces Ghent’s rise to textile powerhouse. The star of the collection is Belgium’s first spinning mule, a machine created to speed up yarn production: local Lieven Bauwens smuggled its components out of the UK, as export of such machinery had been banned.

Where to eat in Ghent

1. Knol & Kool The choice at this vegan cafe, a few steps from the belfry, ranges from vegetable lasagne with rocket pesto and almond parmesan to bánh mì overstuffed with tofu, pickled carrot and red cabbage. Check out the on-site vegan minimarket for hibiscus-flavoured beer, green leek miso paste and nut cheese made locally.

2. Lepelblad This modern restaurant in tranquil Onderbergen, near the historical centre, works with local farmers and small producers to celebrate the season’s bounty. The menu might change depending on the day’s supply, but expect dishes like chicory tarte tatin with onion cream and mustard salad or marinated beef with salsify, soy and herbs. Each comes with a recommended wine and beer pairing.  

3. Oak This one-Michelin-starred restaurant is celebrating its 10th anniversary with a refurbished look but has retained the minimalist, dark-toned decor that lets its menu shine. Brazilian chef Marcelo Ballardin’s multi-course menus lean into his international background with creations such as mackerel with Philippine calamansi lime or sea bass with tucupi sauce, extracted from wild manioc root in the Amazon rainforest.

Where to go shopping  

1. Home Linen This boutique on the Korenlei has been crafting its own designs since the 19th century. A lavender scent permeates the space, which sells lace tablecloths decorated with red lobsters, retro night gowns and children’s dresses embroidered with rosebuds. It’s all reasonably priced, despite Belgian linen being renowned for its softness.

2. Antiques Ghent has a seemingly endless assortment of vintage shops. Located opposite each other on central Baudelostraat, Antiek-Depot has overflowing shelves of curios, while Moca has ceilings hung with chairs and tambourines. For more precise perusing, Galerie St-John has a pedigree selection of cutlery, porcelains and Belgian paintings, all housed in a former baroque church.      

3. Sweets & condiments While Belgium is known for waffles and chocolate, Ghentians will recommend different specialities. Cuberdons are nose-shaped hard candies filled with fruit syrup; get a packet at Patershol’s Confiserie Temmerman , which dates to 1904. Even older is Tierenteyn-Verlent in the historical centre, selling a locally famous mustard made using a secret recipe.  

After hours

1. ‘t Dreupelkot It’s been over four decades since Paul Rysenaer opened this pint-sized pub a few steps from the Graslei, where barrels serve as high tables and wood cabinets display shot glasses. Head here to try jenever, a juniper-flavoured Belgian and Dutch spirit: there are some 200 varieties on the shelves, some distilled by Paul himself.

2. The Cobbler Walk up a spiral staircase and into this low-lit cocktail bar within 1898 The Post hotel , one of the city’s trendiest addresses. It’s hard to say what’s better: the location on the Graslei, overlooking gothic St Nicholas’ Church, or its signature concoctions. Try the fruity pear sonata with vodka, Cointreau, cassis and pear, or the herbal downstairs harry, a mix of rum, cognac, vermouth, Chartreuse, maple syrup and sage.

3. Jazz clubs A UNESCO Creative City of Music, Ghent has a special affinity with jazz. Every July, Gent Jazz takes over a former 13th-century hospital with performances by the likes of Gregory Porter and Norah Jones, but you’ll find sessions to jam out to all year. Hot Club Gent , an intimate bar, and Missy Sippy , a self-styled ‘modern juke joint’, are good places to start in the historical centre.    

Like a local

1. Portus Ganda Ghent’s name comes from ganda, Celtic for ‘confluence’. The city was founded where the rivers Lys and Scheldt meet; when the Graslei and Koreneli get too busy, follow the canals to this very spot, now a tranquil marina. If visiting in warm months, detour to St Bavo’s Abbey, where hornbeam bushes mark the outline of a long-lost church.  

2. The Bakery When pastry chef Joost Arijs set up a chocolate shop in SoGo — Ghent’s shopping district — in 2011, it was quickly named Belgium’s best by restaurant guide Gault & Millau. Opened down the road in 2023, his follow-up bakery was always going to draw in curious locals but, a year on, the morning queues show no sign of subsiding. Come early to have your pick of the crispiest croissants.  

3. Veggie Thursdays In 2009, Ghent was the first city in the world to introduce a weekly meat-free day — an initiative that’s since been replicated from Taipei to Los Angeles. Take part yourself at Boon , an airy, Scandi-chic vegetarian lunch bar opposite the Gravensteen. The seasonal soups, salads and slices of quiche will have you coming back for more no matter what day of the week it is.

Where to stay in Ghent

1. Ganda Rooms and Suites You’ll be hard-pressed to find better value for money than this B & B, set in an 18th-century townhouse in the historical centre. The eight rooms retain original mantelpieces and wooden beams, and the owners worked with artisans to furnish them with bespoke beds and Belgian art.

2. Pillows Grand Hotel Reylof True to its former life as a baronial residence, this four-star hotel dazzles at first sight with a sweeping staircase in its marbled, neoclassical lobby. Set in a separate building, the 157 rooms are a more pared-back affair, but with common areas including a library and a bijou spa in what was a carriage house — plus the Graslei a stone’s throw away — there’s more than enough to keep you busy.

3.   Hotel Verhaegen Frescoes, a landscaped garden, a bath house with vaulted ceilings: there’s nothing subtle about this city palace, a short walk from the historical centre. It was reimagined as a four-room guesthouse by a pair of interior designers, who combined hand-picked antiques with 21st-century touches. Splurge on the Suite des Annees ’40 — though at some 750sq ft, the term ‘suite’ hardly does it justice.  

Related Topics

• CITY GUIDES
• MODERN HISTORY
• LIVING HISTORY
• FOOD HISTORY

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

A Visit To The Charming Town Of Ghent, Belgium

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• Destinations

Would you like to visit a city as enchanting as Bruges and Amsterdam but without the crowds? Ghent, Belgium, is just the place. An easy 30- to 45-minute train ride from Brussels Midi or Central Station will whisk you to the charming city of Ghent. Located in the Flemish part of Belgium, Ghent is a canal-based city that’s larger than Bruges and more compact than Amsterdam.

Ghent’s history dates back to the 1300s, when it was the richest and largest city in northern Europe. The confluence of two rivers, the Scheldt and the Leie, made Ghent a major port city, and in the 18th and 19th centuries, the city had a thriving textile industry.

Today, luckily, much of the medieval architecture is still intact in the historic district of Ghent, thanks to the city’s preservation and restoration efforts. Here are the best things to see and do during your time in the city.

Huysman Geert / Shutterstock

Saint Bavo Cathedral

Saint Bavo Cathedral is the most significant cathedral in Ghent because of a historic masterpiece it contains. The original structure of the cathedral is from 942 A.D., but between the 14th and 16th centuries, the architecture transitioned to the gothic style that dominated most European cathedrals.

The Ghent Altarpiece, also known as the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb , was painted by brothers Hubert and Jan Van Eyck between 1420 and 1432. Consisting of 12 panels, the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb is considered to be one of the greatest religious art works in the world. It’s in the midst of a major restoration expected to be complete in October of 2020.

The Design Museum

Housed in a sumptuous palace from the 1700s with exquisite woodwork and carvings, brocade wallpaper, and a grand staircase, The Design Museum traces the history of Belgian and international design from the 1860s to the present. Art nouveau, Asian artifacts, and French art deco are some of the styles represented, and the museum contains an extensive design library.

Rudy Mareel / Shutterstock

Museum Of Fine Arts

Focusing mainly on Flemish painters, the Museum of Fine Arts has a vast collection of artworks and sculptures from the 15th century to the 20th century, ranging from the medieval period to contemporary art. A section of the museum features the works of French artists, mostly from the 20th century. Rubens, Jan de Bray, Edgard Tytgat, and Paul Delvaux are just some of the Belgian artists represented by over 600 works in the permanent collection, so allow plenty of time to view them.

Mapics / Shutterstock

Canal Boat Ride

A delightful way to take in the sites of Ghent is a boat ride through the canals. There are several companies that offer various options. A hop-on, hop-off water tram service stops at six major sites and is free if you purchase a CityCard Gent . If you want a more comprehensive cruise, Benelux Rederij has a two-story riverboat with picture windows and offers five-hour cruises with a lunch option. There are several companies that offer private boat rentals, so you can drive your own boat and see the sites at your leisure. One of the advantageous things about taking a boat ride is being able to get a glimpse of the backs of the historic buildings, many of which have canalside gardens.

Yury Dmitrienko / Shutterstock

Castle Of The Counts

One of the more popular attractions of Ghent is the Castle of the Counts , which was built in 1180. The massive castle was commissioned by Count Philip of Alsace so he could wield his power over the city, and the lookout was installed specifically so he could view battles. The Count’s son, Arnulf I, transformed it into a fortress. In later years, the castle was turned into a prison, and a collection of torture equipment still remains. An audio guide provides a comedic take on the castle’s history, with humorous anecdotes and stories by a local comedian.

Where To Eat In Ghent

Visit the oldest coffee house in Ghent, Mokabon , a markedly different experience than going to Starbucks. The moment you step into the cafe, your senses are happily assailed by the unmistakable aroma of coffee beans being roasted and by the sound of coffee grinders pulverizing the beans. There are bins filled with just-roasted coffee beans from around the globe, and an antique roaster sits in the window. The cafe is old-school all the way, with soft lighting, bentwood chairs and, of course, serious coffee aficionados.

A few doors down from Mokabon is a small shop, La Petite Normandie , a delightful cheesemonger. The vast array of fine cheeses from Belgium, France, and Switzerland can be overwhelming to choose from, but their award-winning Gouda is the one to taste for sure.

Brasserie Pakhuis , a former hardware store and warehouse from the early 1800s, is a favorite amongst locals. The sprawling space laid out on three levels was transformed into a restaurant in 1991. Elements from the hardware shop are still intact, giving it an industrial but hip vibe. The versatile, a la carte menu serves Belgian and international specialties such as house-made shrimp croquettes and goose liver pate for appetizers; char-grilled lobster with basmati rice, Flemish-style steak tartare, and roasted Bresse chicken for main courses; and for a sweet finish, there’s a triple threat: chocolate mousse made with Belgian chocolate and Belgian waffles with whipped cream and cranberry compote. A market menu, a three-course offering, has dishes prepared with the freshest foods currently available. The brasserie also has a lively bar and lounge area.

Mussels with French fries are something of a national dish in Belgium, so enjoying this meal is a must in Ghent. The best places to have mussels are Bridge Brasserie , where they serve mussels stewed in white wine in an orange, enamel pot, and De Graslei , which serves other Belgian specialties such as waterzooi stew with chicken and beef carbonnade made with beer.

Belgian Beer In Ghent

Ghent shows off the cultural pride of Belgian beer , with tempting local brews and beer pubs.

Gruut is a modern-day brewery but uses old-fashioned techniques, such as leveraging herbs to flavor their beer. Five different ales — blonde, amber, brown, inferno, and white — are offered, and you can even get a taste of all five for only 9 euros.

An alphabetical, five-page menu of over 500 beers makes De Dulle Griet a must-visit for even the hardest-to-please beer lovers. De Dulle Griet has a Trappist beer tasting served with cheese and salami.

Hotel de Flandre

Where To Stay In Ghent

Hotel de Flandre , an easy 10-minute tram ride from the train station, is a four-star hotel conveniently located close to most attractions in the old quarter. It’s part of the Historic Hotels of Belgium group, which has three other properties in Ghent. The neoclassical style edifices from the 1800s still contain original architectural details from the two five-story coach houses. Hotel de Flandre has had an impressive list of guests from the past, including Johann Strauss and French writers Chateaubriand and Lamartine, who were part of King Louis XVIII’s entourage.

If you are looking for a contemporary, luxury hotel experience, check into The Sandton Grand Hotel Reylof , the top hotel in Ghent, with 158 rooms and suites and also long-stay apartments. There’s also a spa, a pool, and a gym. The Sandton has the trendsetting Restaurant Lof, where chef Joris Korsten creates eclectic-tasting lunches and dinners and offers a special vegetarian menu.

• Trains to Ghent from Brussels Central Station and Brussels Midi leave approximately every 45 minutes. There are discounted fares for people over 65.
• Ghent can also be a day trip from Brussels if you are pressed for time.
• The old quarter of the city, where most of the above attractions are located, is easily walkable.

Editor’s Note: Don’t be surprised to see Ghent written as Gent or even Gaunt . Ghent is the contemporary English spelling, whereas Gent is the Dutch spelling and Gaunt was the traditional English spelling.

Richard Nahem is an ex-New Yorker living in Paris since 2005. A travel writer and photographer, he’s been publishing his blog Eye Prefer Paris since 2006 and also writes for publications such as Travel Agent Central, Passport Magazine, The Guardian, Bonjour Paris, and Luxury Travel Advisor. He focuses mainly on luxury travel in Europe. Richard also leads private personalized tours of Paris for clients looking to explore the off the beaten path Paris they never usually see on their own.

Luggage Storage in Ghent

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Ghent Luggage Storage Guide

The second-largest municipality in Belgium’s Flemish Region and the third-largest city in the country, Ghent (also spelt Gent) is home to more than 260,000 residents. Known in the region as ”the Historic Heart of Flanders,’ Gent is rife with culture, art, and, of course, history.

According to archaeological evidence found in the area, the first humans arrived around Ghent, Belgium, almost 60,000 years ago, during the Middle Paleolithic era. However, it wasn’t until the 4th and 5th centuries, when the Franks were invading Roman territories, that the region began to develop more permanently.

Gent truly began to flourish during the Middle Ages, transforming into an economic and religious powerhouse in Europe, despite invasions by the Vikings in 851 and 879. After the Hundred Years’ War, political and civil unrest in the country led to multiple revolts that deepened the devastation caused by the Eighty Years’ War that followed. The city’s second revival would not come until the 18th and 19th centuries, when the textile industry revitalised the economy.

Nowadays, the city is home to the Port of Ghent, a major economic hub and the third-largest port in Belgium. Celebrated across the globe for its extraordinarily well preserved medieval architecture, stunning inland waterways, and vibrant culture, Gent is the epitome of classic European charm.

Luggage Storage near Ghent’s Train Stations

Thanks to Gent’s well-organised public transport and easy to navigate streets, navigating the city is a breeze for residents and visitors alike. In addition to extensive regular bus and tram services, Ghent’s railway system connects the city to the country and the rest of Europe.

Gent – Sint – Pieters Train Station

The busiest station in Flanders, and the fourth-busiest station in Belgium, the Gent-Sint-Pieters Railway Station, sees over 17 million passengers annually. The Gent-Sint-Pieters Railway Station, located 3 kilometres (a little less than 2 miles) from the city centre, is Ghent’s primary transit station, connecting passengers with bus, tram, taxi, and bicycle rental services.

In anticipation of the 1913 World’s Fair, construction on the current station began in 1910 and finished in 1912. Today, the historic local landmark recalls its origins through fierce preservation of its features, including its ornately decorated ceiling and wall murals that depict various scenes of Belgian cities and its iconic clock tower.

Gent-Sint-Pieters Railway Station currently offers nine intercity services, two local services, two S-train services, and seven Peak Hour train services. Additionally, the station serves three lines of the Ghent Tram and connects internationally via the IC 04 and TER 19700 Lines.

Gent – Dampoort Station

Situated just 1.9 kilometres (a bit over a mile) from the city centre, the Gent-Dampoort Station is the second busiest station in Gent. The station consists of one island platform and three tracks, including one for drive through, on Lines 58, 58D, and 59.

Initially opened as the Gent-Eecloo Station in 1861, the original station building was demolished and replaced by the current station in 1973. As recently as 2008, though, Gent-Dampoort Station underwent renovations to improve the flooring, repaint the shelters, and construct a Panos Sandwich Shop within the corridor before the station platform.

Fully accessible to people of all abilities, passengers can reach the station’s platform by elevator, escalator, or fixed staircase. Gent-Dampoort Station offers three intercity services, two local services, and three S-Line services during the week, in addition to five regular weekend services.

Luggage Storage at Airports near Ghent

Do you plan on flying into the city of Ghent for your visit? If so, then it’s more than likely that you’ll be arriving at one of the three following airports: Brussels Airport, Antwerp Internationa Airport, or Lille Airport.

Brussels Airport

An international airport located 68 kilometres (around 42 miles) southeast of Gent’s city centre in Zaventem, Belgium, Brussels Airport, is used as a public and military airfield. Brussels Airport serves over 26 million passengers per year with nonstop international and domestic flights to more than 180 destinations in over 60 countries.

Brussels Airport has a long history of aviation, starting in 1940 when occupying Nazi German troops first utilised the land for the Luftwaffe as a reserve backup airfield. The Belgian government took over the site after Allied forces liberated the city in September 1944, and the airport was opened to the public as a civil aerodrome in 1948.

Now, Brussels Airport is the busiest in the country and the 24th busiest airport in Europe. As home to more than 250 companies and the home base for TUI fly Belgium and Brussels Airlines, the airport is an economic and transit hub for the entire country of Belgium. Featuring over 60 shops, restaurants, and bars for travellers to enjoy, Brussels Airport consists of a single terminal with four levels and two piers.

Antwerp International Airport

One of Belgium’s minor international airports, Antwerp International Airport, is located in the city of Antwerp, 65.3 kilometres (just over 40.5 miles) northeast of Ghent. The airport, which is frequently used for private and corporate aviation, also offers charter, seasonal, and regularly scheduled flights, in addition to general aviation services.

Antwerp International Airport, which began as a pilot training school in 1923, features a museum dedicated to its history. The Museum Stampe-Vertongen exhibits 20 aeroplanes and full-size aircraft reconstructions, some of which date back to World War I, in the same building that was initially erected at the site in 1930.

The airport serves more than ten foreign destinations, due in large part to its principal tenant, TUI fly Belgium, which operates most passenger flights. Keep in mind that Antwerp International Airport is designed with a single terminal concept and only offers limited facilities. However, travellers heading into Gent from the airport may be interested in knowing that it has a combination cafe/bar and a VIP Lounge.

Lille Airport

Also known as Lille-Lesquin Airport, or more simply, Lesquin Airport, Lille Airport sits 71 kilometres (44 miles) southwest of Ghent. Located in the city of Lesquin, in northern France, the Lille Airport is the 12th busiest airport in France, serving more than 1.5 million passengers in a typical year.

Lille Airport offers regularly scheduled, non-stop flights to more than 40 destinations, connecting travellers with eight countries worldwide, including France and Belgium. A dozen commercial airlines operate at the airport, including Air France, Ryanair, and Tui fly Belgium, providing charter and seasonal flights in addition to passenger flights.

Visitors to the Lille Airport can stop in for some duty-free shopping at the Aélia Shop and grab last-minute items before departure at the Relay Shop. Or, if you’re looking for somewhere to grab a bite while visiting the airport, head over to Jardins Pamplemousse, Salon Blériot, or Your’s Restaurant and Bar for authentic French dining.

What to do in Ghent

• Travel back in time on a riverboat cruise along the Leie, home to some of Gent’s oldest and most beautiful landmarks and buildings.
• Climb 366 steps up to the top of the Belfry of Ghent, where you can enjoy incredible views of the city alongside the copper dragon statue, the city’s faithful guardian since the 14th century.
• Visit Flander’s only remaining medieval castle with a moat, Gravensteen, ‘the Castle of the Count.’ Throughout the course of the city’s history, the castle has fulfilled a multitude of roles, including that of residence, court, prison, mint, and cotton factory.
• Catch a show at Nederlands Toneel Gent, or NTGent, as it’s often called, Ghent’s Royal Dutch Theater.
• Take a moment to snap a photo at Sint-Michielshelling (St. Michael’s Bridge, in English). As the only place in the city where you can see all three Medieval Towers of Ghent (see below), this is one Kodak moment you don’t want to miss.
• Stroll along Gent’s graffiti alley, Werregarenstraat, where the art is ever-changing and always stunning.

Ghent’s Weather

Gent has an oceanic climate due to its proximity to the North Sea and experiences four distinct seasons. While the winds in the city are generally calm, humidity in the city is often high, remaining above 60 percent relative humidity, even during its dryest month, April. On average, Gent experiences around 180 sunny days and 124 days of precipitation per year.

If you’re going to visit Ghent, locals recommend planning your stay between June and September, when rainfall is limited, and temperatures are pleasantly warm. July, in particular, is one of the warmest months in the city, with average high temperatures of around 23.9 degrees Celcius (75.1 degrees Fahrenheit) and average low temperatures above 13.9 degrees Celcius (57.1 degrees Fahrenheit) more often than not.

Fun Facts About Ghent

• Ghent is a city of many nicknames, including Fiere Stede, the Artevelde City, the Flower City, ‘the Medieval Manhattan,’ ‘a City of All Times,’ and ‘Europe’s Best-Kept Secret.’
• In commemoration of the Revolt of Ghent, Gent’s inhabitants have been known as stropdragers, Dutch for “noose bearers,” since the mid-1500s.
• Together, the towers of St. Nicholas’ Church, St. Bavo’s Cathedral, and the Belfry of Ghent make the Three Towers of Ghent collectively one of the city’s biggest tourist draws.
• The bell tower at the legendary Belfry of Ghent stands at 91 metres tall (298.5 feet) and has been known to, on occasion, chime out whimsical tunes like the theme song to the Pirates of the Caribbean.
• When a baby is born in the city’s maternity wards, the parents are given the opportunity to flash the streetlights at Sint-Veerleplein square in celebration, as part of artist Alberto Garutti’s work of art, Ai Nati Oggi (“For Those Born Today”).

Luggage Storage Locations in Belgium

Sidewalk Safari | Part-time Travel Blog

How to take yourself on a tour to find the best ghent chocolate.

Belgian Chocolate is famous the world over. Belgium's obsession with chocolate dates back to the 19th Century, when cocoa beans were shipped to Europe from The Congo, Belgium's new African colony. In 1912, Jean Neuhaus invented the praline, a chocolate shell surrounding a soft, filled centre. Neuhaus and Leonidas are two of Belgium's most famous chocolatiers. Of course, you can find both Neuhaus and Leonidas (multiple locations of each, in fact) in Ghent . However, for this post, we'll focus on Ghent's local artisanal chocolate shops. Read on and plot a course to take yourself on a self-guided walking tour to experience some of the best Ghent chocolate.

Map of Ghent Chocolate Shops

How to Sample the Best Ghent Chocolate

A Tour of Ghent's Best Chocolate Shops

Marijn coertjens, i started my self-guided tour of ghent chocolates furthest afield at marijn coertjens. it's billed as a pastry shop, but they have a fantastic array of pralines. i picked out 5 chocolates named after animals. each praline was intricately decorated in the coat of the animal it represented.  i tried the leopard (coffee), zebra (vanilla ganache), macaw (lime ganache), tiger (indian chai tea ganache), and black panther (passionfruit ganache) at marijn coertjens.  cost: 5.50 eur for 5 pralines, 1.10 eur per chocolate.

Next up, I walked to Daskalidès which takes about 15 minutes from Marijn Coertjens on foot. Here I found friendly staff and larger pralines in a wide range of flavours. I selected a single origin dark chocolate from Uganda and a speculoos chocolate (speculoos is a spicy short crust biscuit that is famous in Belgium ). In addition, I opted for a praline filled with pepper ganache, and a dark chocolate caramel.

Cost: 2.52 EUR for 4 chocolates, 0.63 EUR per chocolate

Chocolaterie Vandenbouhede

Vandenbouhede Chocolatier is literally around the corner from Daskalidès and is the logical third stop on this Ghent chocolate tour. Unique shapes and intricate decorations appeared to be their thing. I bought a skull filled with beetroot honey, a Bailey's Tiki head, an orange milk chocolate, and The Italian (dark chocolate, amaretto, coffee).

Cost: 3.70 EUR for 4 chocolates, 0.92 EUR per chocolate

Yuzu by Nicolas Vanaise and C.

It takes about 6 minutes to walk from Chocolaterie Vandenbouhede to Yuzu chocolate in Ghent. Yuzu chocolates are sold as elegant rectangles with bold and unusual flavours like Eleonora with wood and tobacco. The India Song praline was flavoured with white pepper, cardamon, and anis seed. The Temple of Heaven was inflused with Lapsang Souchong and Jasmine tea. Sana'a tasted of a mix of coffee, cinnamon, cardamom, and frankincense. The Tommaso praline took the flavour in a different direction with balsamic vinegar. I'm pretty sure the owner himself took my order!

Cost: 5.50 EUR for 6 chocolates, 0.92 EUR per chocolate

Joost Arijs

Walk another 7 minutes from Yuzu chocolate to Joost Arijs, the 5th stop on my tour of the best Ghent chocolate. Here I found a small but mighty selection! I picked out 4 half-domes including Kumquat with kumquat ganache and saffron caramel; the Trop Bon praline which was flavoured with salted peanut, vanilla, and caramel; Agrum with dark chocolate ganache, Cointreau, lemon and orange plus mandarin jelly; and Desir with Cointreau ganache and raspberry. In contrast to other Ghent chocolate shops that I've covered so far, you can only buy boxes of chocolates in multiples of 2. 

Cost: 7 EUR for 2 boxes of 2, 1.75 EUR per chocolate

Chocolatier Deduytschaever

My next Ghent chocolate stop was Chocolatier Deduytschaever. We had eyed this one a few times over the weekend, but it was closed Whit Sunday and Monday. I'm happy to say that Chocolatier Deduytschaever was open on Tuesday when I did my self-guided Ghent chocolate tour. My selection of pralines included: Sao Tome and Kumabo (I'm told it's a cross between orange and lemon). 

Cost: 3.60 EUR for 4 pieces, 0.90 EUR per chocolate

Chocolaterie Luc Van Hoorebeke

Chocolaterie luc van hoorebeke is about a 2 minute walk from st. bavos cathedral. finish your tour here if you plan to use citycard gent to book a virtual reality tour of the ghent altarpiece.  van hoorebeke pralines were definitely creative yuzu, lemongrass, and passionfruit with nut butter were a few of the highlights. cost: 4 eur for 6 pieces, 0.67 eur per chocolate, sophie's sweets and chocolates.

Time for the final stop on our self-guided Ghent chocolate tour! I tried an eclectic mix of chocolates with flavours like blueberry, caramel, orange, and a boozy marzipan all enrobed in dark Belgian chocolate. I went back to Sophie's a second time and picked up a number of pralines infused with alcohol. If you like a tipple from time to time, these chocolates are just the thing.

Cost: 3 EUR for 6 pieces, 0.50 EUR per chocolate

SIDEWALK SAFARI SPOTLIGHT:  Looking for other places to try Belgian chocolates? Make sure to try Pierre Marcolini and Elisabeth Chocolatier on a layover in Brussels and most definitely go on an extended tour of the  chocolate in Bruges .

The best chocolate in ghent.

So what's the verdict on the best chocolate you'll find on a day out in Ghent ? I think it depends on what you prioritize. My top prizes in various categories are:

• Most Creative Presentation:  Chocolaterie Vandenbouhede for the exquisite chocolate skull
• Most Unusual Flavours: Yuzu Chocolate Ghent for coming up with wood and tobacco among many other unique combinations
• Best Value for Money: Sophie's at 0.50 EUR each for delightfully boozy pralines
• Biggest Surprise:  Marijn Coertjens. I was skeptical that a pastisserie could also sell top-notch Belgian pralines, but I was proven wrong. So good!

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The 11 Best Independent Bookshops in Ghent

Even in the age of Amazon, e-books and future day drone book deliveries, Ghent has clung tight to its physical houses of literature. These 11 distinct bookshops, including one that doubles as an artist gallery and another that houses a superb typewriter collection, are where the Gentenaar goes to hold an actual book in his or her hand.

1. boekhandel walry.

From it’s split-down-the-middle website to its obscure art publications, RIOT is quite the characterful addition to Ghent’s literary scene. Part bookshop, part gallery, the plywood-rich space belongs to a growing subset of initiatives by the city’s young creatives. It settled in the affordable but increasingly attractive Dampoort neighbourhood in 2014 and has become a great underground source for art mags and events like graphic design printing workshops.

Dendermondsesteenweg 80, 9000 Ghent, Belgium , + 32 9 223 39 53

RIOT, fond of hard-to-find art mags and highlighting emerging young talent | courtesy of RIOT

3. Paard Van Troje

Helped by an eclectic event calendar that doesn’t necessarily stick to the literary field – think exhibits showcasing the works of local artists or ‘Swedish folk on a Sunday afternoon’ – and a 60-seat café serving a decent cup of joe, Paard Van Troje (‘Trojan Horse’) has become one of the best-known independents in Ghent. The spacious family-run business on the Kouter square likes a good classic (as its name would suggest), and stocks some beautiful special editions on its wooden bookshelves spread across multiple rooms. A wide selection of children’s books from toddler to YA is part of its charm, and a Kathleen Kelly quote can’t help but pop to mind: “When you read a book as a child, it becomes a part of your identity in a way that no other reading does.” Well, they organise midnight Harry Potter sales. Enough said.

Kouter 112-113, 9000 Ghent, Belgium , +32 9 330 08 83

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6. Limerick

For those who ‘prefer to read in the language of Shakespeare, Molière, Goethe, or even Strindberg,’ Limerick boasts a wide offer of English, French, German and Swedish literature alongside its Dutch-language books. Gert Brouns’ place has been profiled together with Walry as one of Ghent’s literary strongholds, going its own way in a sea of chainstores thanks to unequalled personal service. The point is emphasised by the grand typewriter collection of renowned Dutch author Willem Frederik Hermans that found a home here in 2013, and by the assortment of both nostalgic and new children’s books.

Koningin Elisabethlaan 142, 9000 Ghent, Belgium , +32 9 222 17 57

Author Willem Frederick Hermans’ exceptional typewriter collection on display at Limerick | courtesy of Boekhandel Limerick

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We are Travel Store advisors and we love to travel. Chances are, if you have questions about any destination in the world, we've been there and have all kinds of tips, advice, and access to information and services you need to get there. Get to Know The Travel Store Team

Sheri atkinson.

Travel Advisor

Located in Charlottetown, PEI

We pride ourselves that our head office is on PEI and we are here for our neighbours and fellow Islanders to work with them to see all their travel dreams and needs to fruition.

Always know where you passport is, when it is expiring, and keep it up to date. You never want to be caught without your passport when your dream trip is ready for you.

I have never met a destination that I didn't love! As far as all-inclusive destination, I would have to say that Jamaica pulls a little more on my heartstrings. From the music, the food, fabulous beaches, culture, people, adventure experiences and let's not forget those gorgeous new and amazing properties Jamaica has it all for couples, friends and families!

Groups, groups, and more groups! From destination weddings, graduation celebrations, friends gathering together, incentive groups, I love all groups!

Those special once in a lifetime trips; like a beautiful destination wedding, that first family trip with excited children on their first plane ride, the young adults branching out on their own sending them in to the world to explore. Seeing a first is very special.

I love helping and working with people to create memories and experiences they will never forget.

Jackie Arsenault

Located in Summerside, PEI

Service and Knowledge.

Mexico. It has so much to offer everyone.

All-Inclusive south and Disney.

When clients tell me they had a dream vacation.

Christine Garnhum

Corporate Travel Advisor

The Travel Store has a variety of expertise. Each agent brings knowledge and we are a great team, always willing to help each other.

Save a photo album on your phone in photos, and have a print shot of your passport, drivers license, Health card, immunizations, etc.

Florida, the Caribbean, and have cruised a few times; future plans are to explore some of Europe!

Corporate Travel.

I recently booked an elopement in Santorini with GoWay travel. The clients had an amazing time.

Building relationships with clients over time getting to know their travel preferences, and quickly learning their needs.

Danny MacGuigan

Familiarity.

Take your time, go direct if possible. If not always go with the longer connection.

For South options, Cancun/Mayan due to the amount of options and rates for families. River cruises would be next, mainly due to customer satisfaction.

I like to think after so many years I am comfortable with pretty much anywhere.

Cruises to Antarctica. Trans-Siberian rail trip from Moscow to Vladivostok (hopefully that will again be an option someday).

I have always had great co-workers.

Olena Poltoratska

We are the best team, and we complement each other well.

To respect the traditions and values of the country where you are going.

My top destinations are Maldives, Greece, Montenegro,Turkey, Egypt, and Jordan.

I have travelled a lot as a travel advisor, participating in more than 80 familiarization trips around the world. I understand what to offer clients and what to advise them on because my knowledge is from my own experience.

I think of these trips based on the most interesting itineraries and those which brought a lot of changes to the client's life. The most memorable was a month-long trip with sophisticated demands for accommodations and a big excursion program in every place, starting in Vienna ( Austria), visiting San Francisco, Las Vegas, French Polynesia, Singapore, and Bali.

To see happiness in the eyes of our travellers and hear how their trip inspired them.

Sonaz Jalali

We have reliable sources of information on must-see places and ones to avoid and based on that, we can assist our customers.

Always make copies of important documents and keep them with yourself.

Prague, Czech Republic. There are lots of things to do in the capital, but in my opinion, Prague just has so many things to offer, it is impossible to ever get bored in this city.

All-inclusive south destinations and tours in Europe.

An all-inclusive trip to Dominican Republic for a wedding anniversary.

Having customers come back from their trips with a big smile on their face and positive reviews about a destination.

Sharon Larter

Experienced staff and friendly service.

Use a travel agent and get insurance for your trip.

Grindelwald, Switzerland.

All-inclusive Southern destinations.

Meeting people and helping to make their dreams a reality.

Cicely Bethell

Personalized service tailored to your needs. With our extensive knowledge and experience, we ensure every aspect of your trip is carefully curated to exceed your expectations.

Invest in travel insurance.

Orlando for family trips and Las Vegas for couple getaways. Orlando offers fantastic family-friendly attractions, while Las Vegas boasts endless entertainment options and lots of things to do as a couple.

I specialize in all-inclusive vacations to southern destinations and the United States. I provide expert advice and personalized service for unforgettable travel experiences.

A long stay in Spain where the client got to explore off the beaten path and immerse themselves in the local culture, and a trip to Costa Rica that had many moving parts so it was great to see it come together.

It's fulfilling to know that I've contributed to creating lifelong memories and meaningful experiences for my clients.

Teresa Gogan

Located in Amherst, NS

Use a travel agent.

Cruising, because I love everything about being on a floating hotel. Unpacking once and seeing multiple destinations. The food, the entertainment and the staff.

My service.

River cruises, African safaris, family reunions and graduating high school students groups. Making memories they won't forget to keep!

The love I receive from my clients.

Linda Furze

Located in Halifax, NS

Africa. I recently went on a safari for 14 nights in Tanzania, then 5 nights at a resort on Mnemba Island off the coast of Zanzibar.

Vacation packages to the Caribbean and Europe.

Taking care of my clients. It means so much for my clients to enjoy their vacation as I respect the money they are spending and their vacation time.

Dale Turcotte

Located in Moncton, NB

Excellent service by all advisors in the company. Very knowledgeable and well-travelled.

Always do a bit of research on your own to supplement what we discuss about a destination.

Exotic Vacations.

Custom tailored vacations in Australia & Asia.

Helping customers have trips of a lifetime.

Jennifer Gould

A passion for customer service and desire to explore. Although new in this industry, I'm your person to plan an A to Z dream trip.

A leading expert on the topic of travel to Britain.

Planning the details for clients, and hearing all about their experiences when I send them on vacation.

Jennifer Moss

We work diligently to continually upgrade our knowledge. I have achieved my Certified Travel Consultant designation with the highest marks in Canada.

Britain, Iceland, Australia, Costa Rica, Italy, Mexico, Cuba, the Dominican Republic and has cruised the Western Caribbean, the Eastern Mediterranean and the Moselle and Rhine rivers.

Lani McCormack

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Friendly and knowledgeable staff excited to find the best destinations for you. Travel agents love to travel so they can recommend places to go, plus what to see and do there.

Slow down and enjoy your trip. Takes lots of pictures, keep an open mind, have an extra copy of your passport, have good footwear, and most importantly have fun!

New York City! There is just so much to see and do there. Lots of great restaurants, so manys to see, shopping, and just walking around and looking at everything.

Planning a trip with your client and waiting to hear all about it when they come back.

RN, Travel Clinic

I work in the Travel Clinic giving immunizations and providing travel consultations. People should use our service to make sure they have the most up-to-date and accurate travel information so their trip is safe, healthy and fun.

Book early so you have lots of time to make sure you are protected before it's time to go.

European destinations and anywhere warm.

Paulette Soloman

President & Owner

We are committed to getting to know you; to use our knowledge and connections to find you the perfect vacation that will bring relaxation and happy memories.

Get to know what a travel advisor can do for you. You might be surprised at what we can plan or offer.

Switzerland. It offers active adventure, fresh air, diverse landscapes so different from home, amazing food, wonderful history, friendly people, and is so organized and efficient.

Recently, a family trip to Costa Rica went over well with lots of adventure for an active family, but plenty of relax time as well. Canyoning, jungle hikes, surf lessons...there was never a dull moment.

A Christmas Markets River Cruise on the Rhine is another one that stands out. We added a week of hiking and touring pre-cruise in Switzerland, which made for a nice balance of activity and luxurious relaxation.

Hearing from clients who tell us about their trips!

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How to Become a Travel Agent—Because, Believe It or Not, the Industry Is on the Rise

By Scott Bay

There’s a reason “how to become a travel agent” has been a continuously trending search phrase on Google—it is a career path that offers a flexible work environment and schedule, ample travel opportunities, and an immersion into a supportive world-wide industry. It's a surprise to some in 2023: Once the internet became widely available, it was largely believed that needing a travel agent was obsolete. However, even though the brick-and-mortar agencies with punny names in strip malls have vanished, the career is on-the-rise .

New software options are making it easier than ever for people to make money planning trips, either as a side hustle or as a full-time business. That’s why Cherikonda, India-based stay-at-home mother, Maya Kapoor-Miller, decided to enter the professional world as a travel agent this year, at 31. “I knew nothing about the travel industry prior to signing up,” says Kapoor-Miller, who decided to use San Francisco-based booking platform Dreamport to establish her online travel advisor business. “It is my first business in life, and the only one that you can start with no investment.”

But there's also a rise in demand. When people ventured back into the world after the pandemic, travel agents saw an overwhelming amount of business . And that momentum hasn’t stopped—when travel is complicated, like it was in 2020 and 2021, travelers turned to professional trip planners to create a seamless vacation. For better or worse, traveling has remained complicated and chaotic, with new rules being implemented (like Americans needing to pay a fee to visit Europe in 2024 ) and airline strikes and staffing issues. Offloading all of the nitty-gritty details to someone else is more appealing than ever.

For those entering the field, there's also the age-old motivator: a love of travel. 

Shelton Ellis, who is based in North Carolina, recently saw these opportunities and left behind more than 20 years in public relations and global advertising to turn his passion into a career. “I was born with a wanderlust that would wear Rick Steves out,” Ellis says. “I decided to take the leap and follow that lifelong yearning. Transitioning into this role was really about learning how to monetize what I'm passionate about.”

Whether you are looking for a new career path or a lucrative side-hustle—or simply curious about those taking the plunge—here’s how to become a travel agent, from the qualifications and education required, to anticipated earnings, according to those who have made the shift in the past year. 

What exactly does a travel agent do?

Travel agents, or travel advisors (the term is mostly interchangeable), manage everything that goes into a trip for their clients: the flights, car transfers, accommodations, restaurant reservations, and more—they even inspire the itinerary. The reason people turn to travel agents, aside from having a helping hand during any travel chaos , is also to tap into the travel agent’s first-hand knowledge of destinations, and their industry partnerships, which often lead to perks such as hotel upgrades, ideal airplane seats, and experiences that can’t be found on a search engine.

“You have to remember that as a travel agent, you will be a guide for people during their happiest moments—family reunions, weddings , baptisms, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences that people have dreamt of,” says Kapoor-Miller. “It has been one of the most rewarding aspects of being a travel agent. You navigate people, inform them, and help them choose.”

So, how do you become a travel agent?

There are many ways to become a travel agent, from joining an existing travel agency , to starting an independent business from the ground up. Others are opting for one of the buzziest start-ups in the travel industry, Fora . When it launched in 2021, the software company, which trains and provides search engine-optimized profile pages to advisors—at one point had a waitlist of over 30,000 people eager to begin a part-time gig. Travel photographer and Condé Nast Traveler contributor Amanda Villarosa is currently in the process of joining.

“I'm the person that friends and family come to for travel recommendations, tips and tricks, and general travel advice,” says Villarosa. “After discovering Fora and looking into it, I realized that it could be the perfect side-hustle, considering I'm already so involved in the industry.”

With additional flexibility, Villarosa was able to move from New York City to splitting her time between Denver and Los Angeles . She says that the sign-up was quite straightforward. “You're given a dedicated Fora email and have access to advising tools and fellow Fora advisors,” she says. “The training is in the form of Zoom meetings and videos, which you have the option to watch at your own pace. Once completed, you take a certification quiz and you're on your way to advising.”

The other ways in are slightly more involved. To begin an independent practice, you go about it like many other businesses. You will have to create an LLC, establish a business name, cultivate marketing materials, build a website, find clientele, and more.

Ellis found something in the middle, choosing to connect with an established travel agency. “Don't be afraid to reach out to an agency looking to take on new advisors and is willing to mentor," says Ellis. "I was fortunate to learn so much from Annie Chambers, the owner of Crafted Escapes , who has seven years in the business.” He now knows the ropes on everything from using itinerary-building software to destination-specific training, to the sales and marketing aspects of the trade.

Is there required education or qualifications?

Ellis says that there's no certification, per se, required to become a travel advisor, but there are countless training courses available like Departure Lounge ’s classes on navigating the industry through hotels and tour operators. He said it’s also important to stay on top of travel trends. Ellis recently completed travel agent training programs provided by premier cruise lines such as Virgin Voyages , Ritz-Carlton Yachts , and Cunard to help agents sell their products more accurately.

How much does a travel agent make?

What a travel agent earns depends on how many trips they successfully book for their clients. The entire model is commission-based, meaning agents earn a percentage of the total cost of the vacation they orchestrate. Many travel advisors choose to charge a flat-rate planning fee in addition to their commission, but balance is key—if you charge a high planning fee, it could lead to potential clients going elsewhere.

Olivia Morelli

Caitlin Morton

Stacey Lastoe

Fora ’s website states that “some of our full-time, expert advisors earn well into the six figures (or beyond).” So a lucrative career may be on the horizon, for those who are able to build a robust client base and excellent industry connections.

How much you make can also depend on where you live around the world. “I am being paid in dollars,” says India-based Kapoor-Miller. “So the currency fluctuations of the local exchange rate are not something I am worried about.”

What are the key skills required to become a travel agent?

“Travel agents need a mix of customer service, communication, destination knowledge, organizational, and problem-solving skills,” says Kapoor-Miller. “But I would say that adaptability, flexibility, curiosity, and cultural sensitivity top them all—you have to put yourself in other's shoes, and understand the requirements, hopes, and expectations of your clients along with any worries and questions they may have.”

It’s vital to have a passion for traveling, even the aspects of the process that aren’t as exciting, such as learning about new airline routes, train schedule updates, and industry news. “It can be an information-heavy hustle, and I believe it's important to be excited about it as that energy definitely transfers to your clients and partners,” Villarosa says.

Should travel advisors choose a specialization?

Many travel advisors have found success through becoming an expert in a few types of travel and destinations. “It's important to become an authority and learn as much as you can through personal experiences and continuing education,” says Ellis. “As a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community , an avid snow skier, and scuba diver, I know not only the popular destinations but others that are off the beaten path, equally safe and adventurous for all travelers.” This helps travel agents establish a competitive edge, and hopefully convince potential clients to choose them for their expertise.

What are the benefits of being a travel agent?

“Flexibility tops them all,” says Kapoor-Miller. “And the ability to start without industry knowledge. If you worry that you are too old for this job, the good news is that this is a job you can enter and enjoy at any age.”

Another great perk is the "Familiarization trip,” says Ellis. “Tourism boards and hotels invite agents to visit and familiarize themselves with a particular country and its properties. After all, any accomplished salesperson should learn everything they can about their products first-hand...even if they're in Bora Bora.” It's hard work, but someone's got to do it. 

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Now's Your Last Chance to Get Amazon's Top-selling Solar Eclipse Glasses in Time for Monday's Total Eclipse

Shoppers say they'll give you a "perfect, crystal-clear" view of solar eclipse 2024.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Tyler Roeland

We’re days away from one of the most exciting celestial events of the year: the total solar eclipse . That’s right, on Monday, April 8, the moon will block the sun’s light across Texas to Maine, revealing a few moments of near-complete darkness. As spectacular as this event is, like anything else, it's important to take the proper precautions in order to safely enjoy this rare treat, starting with a pair of solar eclipse glasses . 

Having a reliable pair of eclipse glasses is not an optional accessory, nor is it solely for aiding in your viewing pleasure, but rather, it's an essential health requirement to safeguard your retinas as looking directly into the sun while it's in this state can pose serious health risks. Not sure where to find the best pair? The testing team at Travel + Leisure praised the Lunt Solar Eclipse Glasses as an AAS-approved , and CE- and ISO-certified option for any watchparty plans that you have next week. Even better, the best-selling glasses come in a pack of five, only cost $20, and will arrive before Monday thanks to Amazon’s reliable and fast shipping ( Prime members can get them even faster). 

Lunt Solar Eclipse Glasses 5-pack

As per the National Aeronautics and Space Administration , or NASA, observing the sun during an eclipse using a telescope, binoculars, or even with the naked eye “will instantly cause severe eye injury.” Hence, it is crucial to have handheld solar viewers or solar eclipse glasses to safely spectate this extraordinary phenomenon. Since the entire event is projected to be about two hours long, with only a few minutes to view the total eclipse at its peak, it is essential to use a certified safety pair when spectating the partial phases with your eyes — before and after totality. 

And according to T+L editors, “The lenses are made to filter out 100 percent of ultra-violet and infrared rays as well as 99 percent of intense visible light. These sunglasses also come in a fun orange and black design that is easy to spot at a viewing party,” making them not only a safe option for your gazing pleasure, but a stylish one as well.  

Even more, these eclipse glasses are easy to pack up if you'll be traveling to see the solar eclipse 2024, and have earned thousands of five-star ratings from shoppers. Many of these reviewers have praised them for delivering a "perfect crystal-clear view" of past eclipses. In fact, one buyer , who watched the 2023 solar eclipse with his family, was happy to report that "no harm done to our eyes thanks to these glasses," and another shopper added that "since they come five to a pack, I was able to outfit several neighbors who forgot to get some." Having extras also came in handy for this eclipse spectator , who was able "to get a photo of [the 2023 solar eclipse] by rigging up a pair to go over my camera lens, it turned out pretty good." 

Aside from their very safe and effective design, if you’re worried about the glasses' cardboard construction, don’t fret because reviewers say that they “ fit everyone comfortably ,” including children and adults, proving to be an easy-to-wear option for next week's total eclipse. And, despite their disposable design, the glasses can easily be saved for the next big solar or lunar eclipse. 

The Lunt Solar Eclipse Glasses are an affordable choice that won't sacrifice quality, and they come in a convenient pack of five to spectate this rare astronomical affair with your family or group of friends. Best of all, they'll arrive just in time for Monday's big event.

But if you’re keeping your options open, keep reading for more top-rated safety eclipse glasses.

More Solar Eclipse Glasses at Amazon:

Soluna store solar eclipse glasses 2-pack, medical king solar eclipse glasses 10-pack, medoptics solar eclipse glasses 10-pack, medical king solar eclipse glasses set.

At the time of publishing, the price started at $20. 

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Our Favorite Compact Water Flosser Is 30 Percent Off

When it comes to water flossers , I prefer compact models. They take up much less countertop space and are easy to travel with, but you still get all the plaque-busting benefits. That’s why my personal favorite is the Waterpik Cordless Advanced Water Flosser, which happens to be on sale today at Amazon for just $70. It has three pressure settings ranging from 45 to 75 psi, which I find is plenty for keeping my teeth and gums clean . Because it’s cordless, I conveniently use it while showering and can easily fill up the tank with shower water if it runs low. When I’m done using it, I store it under my sink (the Waterpik’s base is just three inches), completely freeing up my bathroom counter space. And if you’re still on the fence, three dentists I spoke to recommend it, including Dr. Greg Grobmyer , who says its battery life is one of the best on the market.

The Strategist is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best acne treatments , rolling luggage , pillows for side sleepers , natural anxiety remedies , and bath towels . We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.

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