Fun Things to Do in Ghent

Ghent is a medieval city with a massive student population and a famously progressive, sociable spirit — canals, car-free streets, and one of Europe’s best summer festivals.

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Happening this week in Ghent

New plans in Ghent drop on Waypoint every week — hikes, trivia nights, dinners, and more. Join the app to see what's on near you and tap to come along.

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Best ways to meet people in Ghent

Food & Markets

Canalside drinks at Graslei

Sitting along the historic Graslei waterfront is the classic Ghent social spot.

Best for: Sunny evenings

Festivals

Ghent Festival (Gentse Feesten)

The ten-day summer festival turns the whole city into a free, joyful social event.

Best for: Summer crowds

Nightlife

Student nightlife & quizzes

A huge university keeps the bars and pub quizzes lively and welcoming.

Best for: Small groups

Fitness & Outdoors

Cycling & canal walks

Car-free and flat, Ghent is made for casual group rides and walks.

Best for: Showing up solo

Community

Veggie food culture

Ghent is famously veggie-friendly — shared meals and markets are sociable by nature.

Best for: First-time meetups

Where to go in Ghent

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Patershol

Cobbled medieval lanes packed with restaurants

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Prinsenhof

Quiet historic streets and a local feel

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University Quarter

Student bars, cheap eats, and energy

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City Centre

Canalside squares, towers, and lively terraces

Ghent FAQ

What are fun things to do in Ghent to meet people?

Canalside drinks at Graslei, the summer Gentse Feesten, student nightlife, cycling, and shared meals are the Ghent staples.

How do I find things to do in Ghent this weekend?

Head to the Graslei or Patershol and join people already out. Waypoint makes it tap-to-join.

Is Ghent a good city to make friends?

Yes — its big student population and progressive, festival-loving culture make it remarkably social.

Ready to actually do something in Ghent?

Join Waypoint, find a plan, and just show up.

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