Chasing Memories: A Family Travel Blog.

Ghent with Kids: A Family-Friendly Guide to Adventure, Waffles, and Whimsical Memories

Cover Image for Ghent with Kids: A Family-Friendly Guide to Adventure, Waffles, and Whimsical Memories
Audrey Rose
Audrey Rose

Exploring Ghent, Belgium: A Family Adventure Filled with Laughs and Lessons

Hey there, fellow travel enthusiasts! Audrey here, and I'm thrilled to share our recent adventure in the enchanting city of Ghent, Belgium! This trip was bursting with charming canals, mouth-watering waffles, and, yes, a few toddler tantrums (because what's a family trip without those?). So buckle up, because I'm about to take you through the highlights, challenges, and tips for visiting Ghent with your little ones!

Highlights of Our Ghent Getaway

If you love history, you'll swoon over Ghent's medieval architecture. The centerpiece, Gravensteen Castle, was basically our Hogwarts for the day. Leo, our two-year-old, was utterly entranced by the idea of knights and dragons (and honestly, Noah and I were too!). We even managed to convince our five-year-old, Max, that he was a brave knight – a perfect excuse to unleash his inner hero! A wide-angle landscape photograph of Gravensteen Castle in Ghent, surrounded by lush greenery under a vibrant blue sky, with soft morning light illuminating the castle's stone walls and gardens, showcasing the charm of medieval architecture.

But let's not forget about the stunning St. Bavo's Cathedral, home to the famous Ghent Altarpiece. When I say this masterpiece left me speechless, I mean it—prompting the usual 'Whoa!' from the boys. Pro tip: make sure to bring a good snack and a few toys for the kiddos. You know, to keep their ‘art appreciation' from turning into a wiggle war!

Challenges We Faced (And How We Survived)

Traveling with kids is like a game of Whac-A-Mole. One moment, something's going right, and the next, there's a meltdown in the middle of a cobblestone street. For us, the most memorable challenge was the weather. We encountered a surprise rainstorm on our second day, which sent us scrambling for cover. Enter: the lovely cafe, Cafe de Pakhuis, where we indulged in hot chocolate that looked like it was made by chocolate angels. Another pro tip? Layer clothing for those unpredictable Belgian weather swings!

And let's not skip over the ‘lost shoe' incident. Max decided he was a pirate and jumped off a low wall next to a canal – resulting in one soggy sneaker. Life lesson learned: waterproof shoes for kids are a must, even when they look like they belong to a fashionable mermaid.

Top Recommendations for Family-Friendly Fun

If you're venturing into Ghent, here are my top recommendations that your family will love:

  1. Boat Tour on the Canals: A boat tour provides a stunning view of the city, and it's fully stroller-friendly! Kids can spot ducks, and parents can kick back with a local beer—win-win!

  2. Museum for the History of Science: This quirky museum is perfect for curious little minds. There are interactive exhibits, and even a few areas that will make your toddlers giggle uncontrollably (thank you, button that lights up the whole room!).

  3. Korenmarkt Square: This is the heart of Ghent, and it's a fantastic spot to grab a Belgian waffle while the kids run around (just be ready for the inevitable “I dropped my waffle!” incident). A medium shot of Korenmarkt Square bustling with families savoring Belgian fries with mayo, historic buildings in the background under golden afternoon light, creating a vibrant and warm atmosphere.

Must-Try Local Delights

You MUST indulge in the local delicacies! Here's a shortlist of what you simply can't leave without tasting:

  • Belgian Waffles: Seriously, they are life-changing. I recommend Chez Albert for the crispy variety topped with whipped cream and strawberries—parental guilt-free snack because you'll share, obviously! Close-up shot of a crispy Belgian waffle topped with fluffy whipped cream and fresh strawberries, captured at Chez Albert. The image showcases the waffle's delicious texture with soft highlights and shadows in natural light, evoking a sense of indulgence and delight.

  • Fries and Mayonnaise: Yup, Belgium is known for their fries, and no trip is complete without a fry cone from Frituur 1. Pro tip: pair your fries with mayo (trust me, it sounds odd, but your taste buds will thank you!).

  • Praline Chocolates: Visit Neuhaus Chocolate to bring home a sweet souvenir. It even inspired Max's first “Noah, this one is the best one!” moment.

Cultural Customs and Etiquette

While the Belgian people were more than friendly, it's always a good idea to brush up on a few cultural customs before you go. For instance, a friendly “Bonjour!” or “Merci!” will go a long way with the locals. And when dining out, tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. Just a polite nod to show appreciation does wonders.

Final Thoughts

Despite the hiccups, Ghent captivated our hearts with its family-friendly charm. Watching Max's eyes light up at every corner, from the whirring bicycles to the majestic buildings, was a reminder that travel is less about perfect moments and more about memories made together. A joyful 5-year-old boy named Max enjoying a Belgian waffle, captured in a candid portrait that highlights his cheerful expression. The soft-focused café background enhances the warm, inviting ambiance, reflecting a cozy indoor atmosphere. The photograph evokes feelings of happiness and innocence.

So, whether you're adventuring through the cobblestone streets of Ghent or any city on your bucket list, embrace the chaos and laughter that comes with traveling as a family! Until next time, happy travels, and don't forget to pack those snacks!