Local rhythm
Shops 10:00–18:00, many kitchens close at 21:00, and several museums shut on Mondays.
Getting around
Entirely walkable. The station sits 15 minutes south of the Markt; trains to Brussels and Ghent run twice an hour.
Practical tips
01Belfry tickets are timed
366 steps, one narrow staircase, limited numbers. Reserve the earliest slot to avoid the queue in the square.
02Cash still helps
Small chocolate shops and market stalls may have card minimums. Keep €20 in coins and notes.
03One canal boat is enough
All operators follow the same 30-minute loop and close in bad weather. Treat it as a flexible slot, not a fixed booking.
Useful words
- Dank u
- Thank you
- Smakelijk
- Enjoy your meal