Family outings in Gand
Ghent is a city of water and stone, with a medieval castle, quays lined with old houses and a largely pedestrian centre. For kids, the Gravensteen, boat rides and big parks are enough to fill a weekend. Bikes rule, and short distances are easy on foot or by tram. The climate is oceanic, with showers possible in any season, so a light raincoat helps. In spring and summer, the café terraces along the quays are full of life. Pedestrian streets and quays let you give kids a little freedom to walk ahead, with plenty of peace of mind.
Must-do activities
Gravensteen Castle
A medieval fortress in the heart of the city, with ramparts, armouries and a view over the rooftops. Kids love climbing the narrow stairs.
Graslei and Korenlei
The quays with historic façades are the heart of Ghent, with boats passing by. Free, perfect for an ice-cream break.
Canal Boat Ride
A gentle way to see the city from the water, with departures from the centre. Ideal with young children and on tired days.
Citadelpark
A large landscaped park near the centre, with lawns, ponds and play areas. Free, surrounded by museums so you can combine outings.
STAM, the City Museum
A modern museum telling Ghent's story with models and screens in a pleasant setting. A good refuge on rainy days.
Blaarmeersen Park
A leisure area with a lake, a sandy beach, trails and play areas, a few minutes from the centre. Free to enjoy, lovely in summer.
Free parks and playgrounds near Gand
- 📚 De Krook
- 🌳 Maaseikplein
- 🛝 Buitenspeeltuin Bijgaardepark
- 🏖️ Surfstrand
- 🌲 Malemmeersen
- 💦 WakePark Gent
- 📚 Faculteitsbibliotheek Letteren & Wijsbegeerte
- 🌳 Koning Albertpark
- 🛝 Speeltuin Godshammeke
- 🏖️ Sportstrand
- 🌲 Sneppemeersen
- 📚 Boekentoren
Making the most of Gand as a family
Whether you live in Gand or are just visiting for the weekend, there is no shortage of family outings: parks, playgrounds, libraries, museums and seasonal events are often free or low cost. FamiSwipe gathers these ideas in one place so you can stop searching.
To choose well, think about your children's ages, the weather and the travel time. A park with a splash pad suits hot days, while a library or community centre saves rainy or freezing ones. Pack a snack, water and a change of clothes.
Tip: swipe through the suggestions in the app, keep your favourites and share the shortlist with the other parent. Free activities are perfect for trying something new without pressure, and short trips close to home spare everyone a long car ride.
Bookable activities in Gand
Tours, attractions and tickets in and around Gand, often with free cancellation.
See activities on GetYourGuide →See experiences on Viator →
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Family outings not to miss
→ Discover activities in Gand on FamiSwipe
FAQ
What can kids do in Ghent when it rains?
The STAM, the museums in the centre and the covered rooms of the Gravensteen keep you dry. A chocolate or waffle stop also works wonders.
What are the free family activities in Ghent?
The Graslei and Korenlei quays, the Citadelpark, Blaarmeersen park and the old town cost nothing. FamiSwipe shows parks and playgrounds around you with the real distance.
Is Ghent stroller-friendly?
The centre is flat and partly pedestrian, but the cobbles are bumpy. A sturdy stroller is more comfortable than a light one.
How many days do you need in Ghent with kids?
Two days cover the centre, a park and a museum. Add a day if you want a trip to Bruges, which is well linked by train.