Graslei and Korenlei face each other on the River Leie and are united by St. Michael’s Bridge. This is prime European strolling territory, with streets, houses, and historic buildings straight from a postcard. The best way to explore is on foot; history-focused walking tours reveal the Flemish Baroque architecture, and former customs houses, and point out canal-side restaurants. This district is also a departure point for scenic boat tours. Audio tours let you learn about local history while wandering at your own pace.
Wear comfortable shoes for navigating the sometimes-uneven streets and climbing on and off boat tours.
Cobblestones can present some difficulty for wheelchairs and strollers, though ramps are often available as alternatives to stairs.
Quayside patios are ideal for relaxing over a local beer and watching the city stroll by.
Located in the historic center of Ghent, Graslei, and Korenlei are easy to reach on foot when exploring this pedestrian-friendly city. Visitors arriving with a car will find convenient nearby parking in a garage at Sint-Michiels. The area is also well-serviced by public transport; nearby stops on both sides of the river include Gent Korenmarkt Perron 3 and Gent Gravensteen. The city also offers a bikeshare program with plentiful stations.
June through October is the most popular time of year to visit Ghent, especially for those seeking warmer temperatures. By day, this district has a buzzy atmosphere from its quayside cafés; that buzz turns up the volume by night with a vibrant restaurant and bar scene. Students bring an extra spirit to the atmosphere when college is in session.
After admiring the river from a quayside café, it’s time to get in a boat. Ghent offers a wide range of ways to enjoy the water, from boat tours exploring the city’s long history to evening tours that reveal Ghent’s nighttime glow. Learn about local architecture, food, and culture during a boat tour.
