Citadelpark
Ghent's expansive green lung, blending historic citadel remnants with serene ponds, gardens, and world-class art museums.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blossoms and fewer crowds
Citadelpark
Best Time
Blossoms and fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ghent's expansive green lung, blending historic citadel remnants with serene ponds, gardens, and world-class art museums.
"A peaceful escape with beautiful gardens and a touch of history, perfect for a relaxed day."
🚶♀️ Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast Citadelpark, so comfy shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
🧺 Picnic Perfection
Pack a picnic basket and blanket for a delightful afternoon amidst the greenery. :sandwich:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Citadel's Historic Grounds
Central area
Wander through the remnants of the 19th-century citadel, offering a glimpse into Ghent's past.

MSK & S.M.A.K. Museums
Adjacent to the park
Explore world-class art at the Museum of Fine Arts and the Municipal Museum of Contemporary Art.

Serene Ponds and Gardens
Various locations within the park
Discover tranquil water features and beautifully maintained gardens, ideal for a peaceful moment.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Green Heart of Ghent
Best Footwear for Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
What's a Gent "life hack" everybody living here should know?
🚶♀️ Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast Citadelpark, so comfy shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
🧺 Picnic Perfection
Pack a picnic basket and blanket for a delightful afternoon amidst the greenery. :sandwich:
Cool parks to walk in Ghent? I just know citadelpark
🖼️ Art Lover's Paradise
Don't miss the adjacent MSK and S.M.A.K. museums for a dose of culture. :museum:
🗺️ Explore Beyond the Center
While central, Citadelpark is large; consider it a great spot for a longer walk or date. :couplewithheart:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast Citadelpark, so comfy shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
🧺 Picnic Perfection
Pack a picnic basket and blanket for a delightful afternoon amidst the greenery. :sandwich:
🖼️ Art Lover's Paradise
Don't miss the adjacent MSK and S.M.A.K. museums for a dose of culture. :museum:
🗺️ Explore Beyond the Center
While central, Citadelpark is large; consider it a great spot for a longer walk or date. :couplewithheart:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Citadelpark is widely appreciated as a beautiful and expansive green space in Ghent, offering a peaceful retreat with its serene ponds and gardens. Visitors enjoy the proximity to major art museums and the historical remnants of the citadel. While generally well-maintained, some find the park's vastness can feel a bit empty at times, and parking can be a challenge.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Citadelpark is conveniently located near Ghent's city center. You can easily reach it by tram or bus from the city's main transport hubs. Many visitors also find it a pleasant walk from the historic center. :bus: :tram: :walking:
Limited street parking is available around the park, but it can be challenging to find a spot, especially during peak hours. Public transport is generally recommended. :car: :noentrysign:
Yes, cycling is a great option! Ghent is a very bike-friendly city, and there are usually bike racks available near the park entrances. :bicycle:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Citadelpark is a public park and is free to enter and explore. Enjoy the green spaces without any cost! :moneywithwings:
Citadelpark is generally open from dawn until dusk. The adjacent museums have their own specific opening hours. :clock1:
There's no need to book tickets for Citadelpark itself, as it's a public space. Tickets are only required for entry into the MSK and S.M.A.K. museums. :ticket:
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Citadelpark offers a variety of activities, including leisurely walks, picnicking, enjoying the ponds and gardens, and visiting the nearby art museums. It's a great spot for relaxation and recreation. :park_park:
While Citadelpark is a beautiful space for all ages, it doesn't have dedicated large playgrounds. However, its open spaces are perfect for children to run and play freely. :child:
Absolutely! Citadelpark is a popular spot for picnics. Find a nice grassy area and enjoy your meal surrounded by nature. :food_picnic:
The main paths in Citadelpark are generally well-maintained and accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, making it a pleasant experience for most visitors. :wheelchair:
📸 📸 Photography
The serene ponds, the historic citadel remnants, and the lush gardens offer beautiful backdrops. The architecture of the MSK and S.M.A.K. museums also provides unique photographic opportunities. :camera:
Drone usage is typically restricted in public parks and near cultural institutions. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone in the area. :noentrysign: :drone:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider combining a park visit with a stroll around the ponds or a brief exploration of the historic citadel remnants, which can spark children's imaginations. The adjacent museums, MSK and S.M.A.K., might be more suited for older children or those with a keen interest in art, but the park itself is a universally appealing destination for family fun and relaxation.
❤️ Couples and Day-Trippers
Day-trippers to Ghent will find Citadelpark an easily accessible and rewarding escape. It offers a chance to experience a different side of the city – its green heart. Combine a visit with the nearby art museums for a well-rounded cultural experience, or simply use it as a peaceful break between sightseeing activities.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Stroll Through History and Art
Adjacent to the park are two significant cultural institutions: the Museum of Fine Arts (MSK) and the Municipal Museum of Contemporary Art (S.M.A.K.). The MSK houses an impressive collection spanning from the Middle Ages to the 20th century, while S.M.A.K. focuses on contemporary art. Visiting these museums can easily turn a park visit into a full day of cultural immersion.
Many visitors find the combination of natural beauty and artistic treasures to be a major draw. The park's layout encourages leisurely exploration, with winding paths leading to tranquil ponds and well-maintained gardens. It's a place where you can enjoy a peaceful walk, a picnic, or simply sit and admire the surroundings, all while being in close proximity to world-class art.
Planning Your Citadelpark Experience
Comfortable footwear is highly recommended, as the park is quite expansive and best explored on foot. If you plan on picnicking, bringing a blanket is a great idea. For those interested in art, dedicating time to visit the MSK and S.M.A.K. museums is a must. Check their respective websites for opening hours and any special exhibitions.
While Citadelpark is a large park, it's also noted as a good spot for a relaxed date or a longer walk, suggesting its suitability for extended visits. The park's accessibility from the city center makes it an easy addition to any Ghent itinerary, offering a peaceful counterpoint to the bustling city streets.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit