A medieval city with a contemporary heart

With its perfect blend of the old and the new, Ghent is breath-taking, full of light and life. An undiscovered gem, small enough to be cosy, but large enough to stay vibrant. Historical without being provincial, and lively without being boisterous, Ghent has a reputation for doing things its own way.

The city has a modern, bustling commercial centre and is the cultural capital of East Flanders. The university’s 60,000 students give the city a young feel.

Ghent offers your association or PCO unique historic venues for an inspirational conference. This compact city prides itself on its sustainable approach to living: most of the venues and accommodations are situated within the largest pedestrian-friendly historic city centre of Belgium.

Who are your guides in this video?

Prof Dr Andreas Niehaus is professor of Japanology at the University of Ghent. He is originally from Koblenz, but lost his heart to Ghent. He lives near the Prinsenhof, the birthplace of Emperor Charles V.

Ioannis Pallas is Association Manager at ESAE. He was pleasantly surprised by Ghent's versatility as a conference city. Or as he puts it in the video: "Ghent is vree wijs" ("very nice" in Ghent dialect).

Clara Calis is a MICE consultant at Gent Congres. Her favourite place in Ghent is Portus Ganda, the city's yacht harbour. She recommends your delegates to taste waterzooi, the local speciality.

Map Flanders Train distances Ghent

Ghent is just 50 minutes by train from Brussels Airport, an airport accessible for delegates from all over the world.

Flanders Heritage Venues in Ghent

Fancy a conference in one of these magnificent venues?

VISITFLANDERS Convention Bureau will be happy to give you all the information you need, and offer your association or PCO free support, no strings attached.

Your contact person

Local partners at your service

The City of Ghent and its official convention bureau welcome your conference with open arms.

Visit Gent

Gent Congres

Inspirational stories