At its heart lies Ghent. A city where grand towers, waterways and lively squares come together. Its medieval streets are filled with cafés, small shops and student life. Giving the city a relaxed energy from morning to night.
Beyond Ghent, East Flanders reveals a softer side. The Lys Valley is known for its scenic riverside villages that once inspired famous painters. Towns like Deinze, Sint-Martens-Latem and Ooidonk bring together waterways, art history and walking paths. The region’s rural areas are filled with farms, mills, and gentle hills. Ideal for cycling or scenic driving routes.
East Flanders also has a rich taste profile. Local breweries, small chocolate makers and traditional restaurants give visitors plenty to try. Markets and food festivals add even more color to the experience.
East Flanders has a pleasant mix of culture and countryside. It is the kind of province where you can explore a lot in a single day.
East Flanders highlights
- Ghent’s Historic Center Walk through one of Europe’s most atmospheric medieval cities. Explore Gravensteen Castle, St. Bavo’s Cathedral with the famous Ghent Altarpiece and the lively Graslei. Don't miss the Korenlei along the waterfront.
- Flemish Ardennes A paradise for outdoor lovers. This landscape of hills, forests and winding roads is famous for its cycling routes used in the Tour of Flanders. Perfect for scenic drives or relaxed countryside walks.
- Oudenaarde Charming town known for its town hall, tapestries and warm cycling culture. It sits at the edge of the Flemish Ardennes and makes a great stop for travelers driving through the region.
- Aalst Known for its lively carnival, one of the oldest in the world. The town also offers pleasant squares, local breweries and a relaxed atmosphere away from larger cities.
- Geraardsbergen and the Muur Visit the famous Muur van Geraardsbergen, a steep cobbled climb with dramatic views. The town is also home to the Mattentaart. It's a traditional pastry with protected status.
The local Four
History of East Flanders
Its story begins along the Scheldt and Leie rivers, where early settlements grew into trading hubs. By the 10th century, Ghent had already become a major center of power under the Counts of Flanders.
During the Middle Ages, East Flanders flourished. Ghent became one of Europe’s largest cities, famous for its cloth production and influential guilds. The construction of landmarks like the Gravensteen, St. Nicholas’ Church, and St. Bavo’s Cathedral reflects the wealth and ambition of this era. Cities such as Aalst, Oudenaarde and Dendermonde also grew as craft centers. Known for tapestry, brewing and trade.
The 18th and 19th centuries brought industrial change. Ghent became an early textile powerhouse, fueled by new waterways and rail connections. You can explore fortified squares, medieval streets and countryside shaped by the same waterways that shaped this province through time.