Graslei & Korenlei - brown and white concrete building near body of water during nighttime
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Graslei & Korenlei

4.8
·361 reviews·Gent, Belgium

Ghent's historic twin quays, Graslei and Korenlei, boast stunning medieval architecture and a lively waterfront atmosphere.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, serene views

CrowdLow
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Graslei & Korenlei - brown and white concrete building near body of water during nighttime

Graslei & Korenlei

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, serene views

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Ghent's historic twin quays, Graslei and Korenlei, boast stunning medieval architecture and a lively waterfront atmosphere.

4.8
(361 reviews)

"A very charming street along the water in the heart of Ghent, with a cozy atmosphere that makes it well worth a visit."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Easy Access to Water Platforms

Platforms at Korenlei and Graslei are open access. No tickets or reservations needed, just walk on! :party_popper:

📸 Capture the Views

The medieval buildings and waterfront offer stunning photo opportunities, especially during golden hour. :camerawithflash:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Medieval Quayside Charm

Medieval Quayside Charm

Stroll along the historic Graslei and Korenlei, soaking in the stunning medieval architecture and vibrant waterfront.

Lively Cafe Culture

Lively Cafe Culture

Along the quays

Enjoy a coffee or meal at one of the many cafes with patios, offering great views and a cozy ambiance.

Scenic Boat Tours

Scenic Boat Tours

Experience the city center from the water with a boat tour, offering unique perspectives of churches, castles, and bridges.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Atmosphere

Graslei and Korenlei offer a medieval charm with lively cafes. Expect crowds, especially during peak hours, but the cozy atmosphere makes it worthwhile. Consider visiting during off-peak times for a more relaxed experience.

Getting Around Ghent

While centrally located, reaching Graslei and Korenlei from the train station can be a bit of a walk. Public transport or a short taxi ride might be more convenient if you prefer to save your energy for exploring the quays.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, serene views
Crowd
Low
When
Evening
Why
Magical ambiance, lively cafes
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Going to the Parties at Korenlei

🚶‍♀️ Easy Access to Water Platforms

Platforms at Korenlei and Graslei are open access. No tickets or reservations needed, just walk on! :party_popper: Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

The medieval buildings and waterfront offer stunning photo opportunities, especially during golden hour. :camerawithflash: Instagram

🧇 Treat Yourself

Don't miss trying a delicious waffle while enjoying the picturesque surroundings. :icecream: TikTok

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the quays and surrounding areas. :athletic_shoe:

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Easy Access to Water Platforms

Platforms at Korenlei and Graslei are open access. No tickets or reservations needed, just walk on! :party_popper: Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

The medieval buildings and waterfront offer stunning photo opportunities, especially during golden hour. :camerawithflash: Instagram

🧇 Treat Yourself

Don't miss trying a delicious waffle while enjoying the picturesque surroundings. :icecream: TikTok

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the quays and surrounding areas. :athletic_shoe:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(361 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Graslei and Korenlei for their stunning medieval architecture and vibrant waterfront atmosphere. The lively cafes and scenic boat tours are highlights, offering a charming experience of Ghent's historic heart. Some find it can get crowded, and reaching it from the train station requires a bit of a walk.

"The medieval and well protected atmosphere was definitely worth to visit! If you reach here from the train station, it could be a little difficult by foot!"

Işıl

"A very charming street along the water in the heart of Ghent. Lined with plenty of restaurants and small shops, it’s understandably crowded but with a cozy atmosphere that makes it well worth a visit."

Alexandra

"Amazing place with great view of historic buildings, lots of great cafe’ and restaurants. Must visit for tourists."

Deo Worachat

What People Like

Beautiful medieval architecture
Lively waterfront cafes
Scenic boat tours

What People Dislike

Can be crowded
Walk from train station

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

From Ghent-Sint-Pieters station, you can take a tram (lines 1, 3, 4, or 6) towards the city center and get off at the 'Gravensteen' stop, which is a short walk from the quays. Alternatively, a taxi or ride-sharing service is available. Walking is possible but can take around 25-30 minutes. Reddit

Parking in the immediate vicinity of Graslei and Korenlei is limited and can be expensive. It's recommended to use public transport or park in a designated parking garage like 'St-Pietersplein' or 'Ramen' and walk to the quays. TikTok

Yes, several tram lines stop near the city center, making Graslei and Korenlei easily accessible by public transport. Look for stops like 'Gravensteen' or 'Korenmarkt'. Instagram

The quays themselves are pedestrian-friendly, but the cobblestone streets in Ghent can be uneven. Comfortable footwear is recommended for exploring the area. Reddit

Yes, Ghent has a good public bike-sharing system (Velo) and several private rental shops are located in the city center, making it easy to cycle to the quays. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Graslei and Korenlei are public quays and are free to access at any time. You only need to pay if you choose to enter specific buildings or take a boat tour. Reddit

The quays are always open as they are public spaces. However, the cafes and restaurants along the waterfront have their own operating hours, typically from morning until late evening. Instagram

There are no entrance fees to walk along Graslei and Korenlei. The beauty of these historic sites is freely accessible to everyone. TikTok

Yes, the platforms on the water at Korenlei and Graslei are generally accessible without tickets or reservations. You can simply walk onto them. Reddit

To avoid the largest crowds, aim for weekday mornings. Evenings can be lively with cafes, but also busier. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The entire length of both quays offers fantastic photo opportunities. For iconic shots, stand on the opposite quay (Korenlei for Graslei views, and vice versa) or from one of the bridges. The reflections in the water are particularly beautiful. Instagram

Golden hour, just after sunrise and before sunset, offers the most magical light for photography. Evenings also provide a lovely ambiance with the buildings lit up. TikTok

Drone usage is generally restricted in city centers due to privacy and safety regulations. It's best to check local ordinances before flying a drone in Ghent. Reddit

The historic guild houses lining Graslei, with their ornate facades, are particularly photogenic. The St. Michael's Church in the background also adds to the picturesque scene. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views of the quays and buildings. A tripod can be useful for low-light photography in the evening. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

You'll find a wide variety of dining options, from traditional Belgian cuisine (mussels, fries, stews) to international dishes. Many cafes offer snacks, pastries, and light meals. TikTok

Absolutely! Many restaurants and cafes along Graslei and Korenlei have outdoor seating or large windows offering direct views of the historic buildings and the water. Instagram

Don't miss trying Belgian waffles, chocolate, fries (frites), and local beers. Stews like 'stoofvlees' (beef stew) are also popular. TikTok

While restaurants directly on the quays can be pricier, you can find more affordable options by walking a few streets inland. Look for 'fritkots' (fry shops) or smaller cafes. Reddit

Many restaurants are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan options. It's always a good idea to check menus or ask your server. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Graslei and Korenlei are a fantastic spot for families. The open quays provide space for kids to move around, and the boat tours are usually a big hit with children, offering an exciting way to see the city. TikTok Many cafes offer kid-friendly snacks like waffles and ice cream, making it easy to keep little ones happy. Instagram

While the historical buildings are impressive, focus on the lively atmosphere and the chance to see boats on the water. Consider a shorter boat tour to keep younger attention spans engaged. The area is generally safe for walking, but always keep an eye on children near the water's edge. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Graslei and Korenlei are free to explore, making them a budget traveler's dream! You can enjoy the stunning views and vibrant atmosphere without spending a euro. Reddit Pack a picnic to enjoy by the water, or grab affordable Belgian fries from a 'fritkot' just a short walk from the main quays. TikTok

While boat tours and waterfront restaurants can add up, simply strolling along the quays and soaking in the ambiance is a rewarding experience in itself. Look for cafes slightly off the main drag for more reasonably priced coffee or snacks. Instagram

❤️ Couples

The romantic ambiance of Graslei and Korenlei makes it an ideal spot for couples. Enjoy a leisurely stroll hand-in-hand along the historic quays, taking in the beautiful medieval architecture. Instagram Consider a sunset boat tour for a truly memorable experience, or find a cozy cafe with outdoor seating to share a drink and watch the world go by. TikTok

In the evening, the illuminated buildings create a magical setting for a romantic dinner at one of the many restaurants overlooking the water. It's a perfect place for a picturesque walk after a meal or a delightful spot to simply relax and enjoy each other's company. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into Ghent's History

Graslei and Korenlei are not just beautiful; they are the historical heart of Ghent. These twin quays were once the bustling center of trade and commerce for the city during the Middle Ages. The magnificent guild houses that line Graslei stand as testaments to the wealth and power of the merchants who lived and worked here. Each facade tells a story of a bygone era, showcasing intricate architectural details that have been remarkably preserved. Instagram

Korenlei, meaning 'Corn Quay,' was historically where grain was traded, while Graslei, or 'Grass Quay,' was associated with the shipping of goods. Together, they formed the vibrant economic engine of Ghent. Today, they serve as a picturesque reminder of the city's rich past, offering visitors a tangible connection to its medieval heritage. The area has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2000, highlighting its global significance. TikTok

Walking along these quays feels like stepping back in time. The atmosphere is often lively, with cafes and restaurants spilling out onto the waterfront, but the historical weight of the place is undeniable. It's a place where history, culture, and daily life converge beautifully. Reddit

Experiencing Graslei & Korenlei by Boat

Taking a boat tour is a highly recommended way to experience Graslei and Korenlei, offering a unique perspective of Ghent's historic center. These tours typically depart from various points along the quays and provide a narrated journey through the city's waterways. TikTok

From the water, you get a stunning view of the medieval guild houses lining Graslei and Korenlei, as well as other significant landmarks like the Gravensteen Castle and St. Michael's Church. The guides often share fascinating historical anecdotes and local insights, bringing the city's past to life. It's a relaxing way to see many of the city's highlights without extensive walking. Instagram

Several companies offer boat tours, with options ranging from short introductory trips to longer excursions. Some tours even operate in the evening, providing a magical view of the illuminated buildings. Booking in advance is often a good idea, especially during peak tourist season. Reddit

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