A soaring 14th-century bell tower crowned by a golden dragon, once the symbol of Ghent's civic independence.
A UNESCO World Heritage Bell Tower
A 14th-century symbol of Ghent's civic independence.
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About Belfry of Ghent
The Belfry of Ghent, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a 91-metre medieval bell tower built in the 14th century as a symbol of the city's civic power and independence from feudal and church authority. Historically, the tower housed the city's charters, seal and treasury in a secure room, along with a set of bells used to sound alarms, announce curfews and mark important civic events.
The tower is topped by a gilded copper dragon, a symbol closely associated with Ghent, and a glass lift now carries visitors most of the way up, with a final short climb leading to an observation platform offering sweeping views over the city's rooftops, canals and neighbouring Saint Bavo's Cathedral and Saint Nicholas' Church.
Why Visit Belfry of Ghent?
Local story
Good to Know
The Belfry suits families, couples, groups and history lovers, for a visit of 1 to 1.5 hours. A glass lift carries visitors most of the way up, with a short final stretch of stairs to the observation platform.
The tower is one of three landmark towers forming Ghent's well-known historic skyline, alongside Saint Bavo's Cathedral and Saint Nicholas' Church, all within easy walking distance of each other.
How to Reach Belfry of Ghent
- 01
Pakistan to Brussels
Fly from Islamabad, Lahore or Karachi to Brussels, usually with one connection through a European or Gulf hub. Check current routes and book early.
- 02
Brussels to Ghent
Take a direct train from Brussels-Central to Ghent-Sint-Pieters, about 40 minutes.
- 03
Station to the Belfry
Take a tram or taxi, or walk about 25 minutes, into the historic centre.
- 04
Explore
Take the lift up the tower and climb the final steps to the observation platform.
Things to Do in Belfry of Ghent
Best Time to Visit Belfry of Ghent
Excellent
Spring
April to May
Mild weather and good visibility from the observation platform.
Recommended season
Excellent
Summer
June to August
Warm weather and the longest daylight hours for views.
Recommended season
Good
Autumn
September
Cooler and quieter, still good for sightseeing.
Good time to visit
Good
Winter
November to March
Cold, with shorter visiting hours and occasional closures.
Good time to visit
Travel smart
Travel Tips for Belfry of Ghent
A few useful things to know before you go there.
Buy a Combined Ticket
Some tickets bundle the Belfry with other Ghent historic sites.
Check the Weather
Clear days offer the best views from the observation platform.
Allow Time for the Final Climb
A short stretch of stairs follows the lift ride.
Combine with the Three Towers Walk
Pair your visit with the nearby cathedral and church.
Visit Earlier in the Day
Helps avoid queues for the lift during busier periods.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The historic centre around the tower involves cobbled streets.
Carry Small Cash
Useful for tickets and nearby cafes.
Nearby Attractions
Location
Find Us on the Map
Explore Belfry of Ghent in Belgium and get directions easily.
Belfry of Ghent
Belgium
Frequently Asked Questions
It is a UNESCO-listed 14th-century bell tower in Ghent, historically a symbol of the city's civic independence.
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