Weekend in Ghent
This itinerary focuses on a mix of engaging free activities and popular ticketed attractions in Ghent that are perfect for families with young children. We've balanced exploration, play, and learning, keeping budget and kid-friendly timings in mind. While specific event schedules for November 2025 are still developing, these venues are well-known for their family offerings. We recommend checking their official websites closer to the dates for any special exhibitions or workshops. Transport options are generally good in Ghent, with many areas accessible on foot or by public transport, and parking available at major attractions.
Friday Evening - Kids Adventure Start
Friday, November 14Gravensteen Castle Visit
Step back in time at Gravensteen Castle, a medieval fortress right in the heart of Ghent.
Kids will love exploring the towers, ramparts, and dungeons, imagining knights and princesses. The castle offers a family-friendly audio guide that brings the history to life in an engaging way.
Perfect for energetic kids aged 5-12 who enjoy exploring. The audio guide is highly recommended for families. Restrooms are available. Stroller access might be challenging in some parts of the castle due to stairs and uneven surfaces, so a carrier for younger children is advised. Duration: 1.5 - 2 hours. This is a great indoor option if the weather is cool or rainy.
The castle is located in the pedestrianized city center. Parking is available at nearby underground car parks like Parking Vrijdagmarkt or Parking Ramen, about a 5-10 minute walk away. Public transport (trams, buses) stops frequently near the center.
Family Pizza Night
Enjoy a relaxed and delicious family pizza dinner at one of Ghent's many family-friendly pizzerias.
Pizzeria Hawaii is known for its casual atmosphere and crowd-pleasing menu, perfect for winding down after exploring the castle.
Pizzerias are always a hit with kids, offering familiar and tasty options. They often have high chairs and space for families. Early timing ensures kids aren't up too late. Great for all ages.
Pizzeria Hawaii is a short walk from Gravensteen Castle, making it convenient. It's in the city center, accessible on foot. If coming by car, use the same parking garages as for Gravensteen.
Saturday - Family Adventure Day
Saturday, November 15Interactive Industriemuseum
Explore the fascinating world of industry at the Industriemuseum (Industrial Museum).
This museum is highly interactive and engaging for children, with plenty of hands-on exhibits that bring the city's industrial past to life. Kids can discover old machines, printing presses, and learn about the evolution of work in a fun way.
Ideal for children aged 6-12 due to the interactive nature of the exhibits. There are restrooms, and the museum is stroller-friendly with elevators. Duration: 2-3 hours. A great indoor activity, especially if the weather is not cooperating.
Located a short walk from the city center. Public parking is available at Parking Vrijdagmarkt or Parking Zuid. Several tram and bus lines stop nearby.
Park Picnic & Play
Head to Citadelpark, Ghent's largest park, for a picnic lunch amidst nature.
Afterwards, let the kids burn off some energy at one of its well-equipped playgrounds. It's a perfect spot for relaxation and active play.
Pack a delicious, budget-friendly picnic or grab some sandwiches from a local bakery. The park has multiple playgrounds suitable for various ages, plenty of green space to run around, and restrooms available. Ideal for all ages. Duration: 1.5 - 2 hours.
Citadelpark is easily accessible by tram (e.g., lines 1, 10, 11, 12) from the city center, stopping at 'Gent Sint-Pietersstation' or 'Gent Citadelpark'. If driving, there's limited street parking around the park, or use Parking Sint-Pietersplein nearby.
Blaarmeersen Indoor Fun
If weather permits, continue enjoying the outdoors at Blaarmeersen Sports and Recreation Park.
If it's rainy or cold, head to the Speeltuin Blaarmeersen, a large indoor playground within the park. It features various slides, climbing frames, and soft play areas suitable for younger children and toddlers, offering hours of fun.
This is an excellent option for active kids aged 3-10 to run, jump, and climb, especially good for burning energy on a chilly or wet day. Parents can relax while kids play in a safe environment. Restrooms and a small cafeteria are available. Socks are usually required for play areas. Duration: 2-3 hours.
Blaarmeersen is located just outside the city center. It's easily reachable by car with ample free parking. Public transport is available with bus lines (e.g., 6) going directly to the park. The park is stroller-friendly.
Fries & Waffles Treat
Conclude your adventurous Saturday with a classic Belgian treat: frites (fries) from a 'fritkot' and delicious Belgian waffles. Head to a popular frites stand like Frituur Sint-Jakobs for a quick, affordable, and satisfying early dinner, followed by waffles with toppings.
A quintessential Belgian experience that kids absolutely love! It's a casual, budget-friendly early dinner. Waffles are a perfect sweet ending. Suitable for all ages.
Frituur Sint-Jakobs is centrally located near the Sint-Jacobskerk, a walkable distance from many city center locations. Public parking is available at Parking Vrijdagmarkt.
Sunday - Relaxed Family Day
Sunday, November 16Krook Library Story Time
Spend a relaxing Sunday morning at De Krook, Ghent's modern and impressive public library.
They often host free story times or creative workshops for children on weekends, offering a quiet yet engaging activity. Check their website closer to the date for the specific schedule for November 2025.
Ideal for younger children (3-8) for story time, and older kids can enjoy browsing the extensive children's book section. The library is very modern, stroller-friendly, and has excellent facilities including restrooms and a cafe. Duration: 1-1.5 hours.
De Krook is easily accessible by public transport (trams 1, 2, 4, 24 stop nearby). It's also a pleasant walk from the city center. Underground parking is available at Parking De Krook.
STAM City Museum Visit
Discover the story of Ghent at STAM, the Ghent City Museum.
While focusing on history, STAM offers interactive elements and often has family-friendly trails or activities designed to engage children with the city's past and present. The museum is housed in a beautiful blend of old and new architecture.
Great for families with children aged 6-12 who have an interest in history and exploring. The museum is spacious, stroller-friendly, and has restrooms and a café. Check their website for any specific family workshops or guided tours on the weekend. Duration: 2 hours.
STAM is located a bit outside the immediate city center but is well-connected by public transport (trams 2, 4, 24). Parking is available at Parking P10 Gent Sint-Pietersplein, which is adjacent to the museum.
Playground Wind-Down
Enjoy a final playtime at one of Ghent's many smaller, local playgrounds before heading home.
The playground at Koning Albertpark, near STAM, offers a simple but fun space for kids to enjoy some fresh air and burn off any remaining energy.
A perfect, free way to wind down the weekend. Kids can play freely, and parents can relax. Simple facilities, but good for a quick play session before dinner and bedtime. Suitable for all ages. Duration: 1 hour.
Located right next to STAM, making it convenient after the museum visit. Easily accessible by foot from the museum or via public transport/parking as mentioned for STAM.
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