The Gravensteen ('Castle of the Counts') is a moated 12th-century medieval fortress built in 1180 by Philip of Alsace, Count of Flanders, on Sint-Veerleplein in the heart of Ghent. It served as the counts' residence until 1353 and was later reused as a courthouse, prison, mint and cotton mill before a late-19th-century restoration turned it into a museum; today it is one of the best-preserved lowland castles in Europe and a signature Ghent landmark, displaying armour, weapons and instruments of justice. As of 2026 the castle has entered the long-term 'Time Castle' works programme (2026–2031), with restoration of the northern annex and a scenography refresh underway, though visits inside the walls continue as normal. It is best framed as a compact but atmospheric walk up onto the ramparts for panoramic medieval-city views.
Climbing the central keep (donjon) for a rooftop panorama over Ghent's spires and rooftops
Walking the ramparts and battlements lined with 24 small turrets (échauguettes), plus the moat and gatehouse that ring the oval castle
The collection of medieval arms and armour, and the museum of judicial instruments including a guillotine — the castle's darker history
Well-preserved stone interiors such as the count's residence and great hall, showing the influence of crusader castles
Included audio guides in several versions (the comedy tour, the 'Big Five' character tour, and a family version) that turn the visit into storytelling
Good to know
SafetyThe interior spiral staircases are narrow, steep and medieval, with uneven step heights. Wear comfortable non-slip shoes and use the handrail; the stone floors and rampart walks are especially slippery after rain.
SafetyPickpockets can operate in the crowds around Korenmarkt, on trams and near the castle, so wear your bag in front and keep it zipped.
SeasonBelgian weather is wet and windy year-round, so pack an umbrella or rain jacket. The thick stone interior and exposed ramparts stay cool even in summer and are quite cold in winter.
RulesThe castle is open daily 10:00–18:00 (last admission around 16:40) and closed on 24, 25, 31 December and 1 January. The audio guide is included in the ticket, and the keep has no lift so wheelchair access is limited while renovation continues; confirm current hours, prices and any works-related changes on the official site.
MannersSome stairs and passages are single-file, so keep moving rather than blocking the way for photos, and keep your voice down in the exhibition rooms.
CautionBuy tickets on the official Historische Huizen Gent site to avoid mark-ups from third-party resellers, and pay for the tram with the De Lijn app or contactless, which is cheaper than buying on board.
Practical info
From Gent-Sint-Pieters station, take tram 1 or 4 to the Korenmarkt/Gravensteen stop and walk about five minutes to the castle gate on Sint-Veerleplein (trams may be diverted due to roadworks). It opens daily 10:00–18:00 (last admission around 16:40); adult entry is about €15 with the audio guide included and youth tickets are discounted, but always confirm the latest hours, prices and any renovation-related route changes on the official site before visiting.
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