Gravensteen Castle Ghent: Tickets, Tips & What to Expect

Planning to visit Gravensteen Castle in Ghent? Here’s my honest review of the Castle of the Counts, including tickets, price, opening hours, how long you need and what it’s actually like inside, from someone who’s been!

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It took me two trips to Ghent to go inside Gravensteen Castle, and oh, am I glad I did.

On my first trip, I admired the moat from afar, took an obligatory photo and carried on exploring the city.

Eight years later, I returned, finally bought a ticket and realised the inside is what makes this one of Ghent’s best attractions.

So, is Gravensteen Castle worth visiting? I’d say yes—especially if it’s your first trip to Ghent.

Here’s all to know before you go.

Shall we?

About the Author

Hi, I’m Candace — a London-based travel writer and content creator who traded the East Coast of the US for the charm of the UK back in 2016. London’s been my home ever since.

On this blog, you’ll find hundreds of thoughtfully crafted London, UK, Europe and Worldwide travel guides alongside lots of insider London tips, honest hotel and restaurant reviews and advice for content creators.

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Quick Overview: Visiting Gravensteen Castle in Ghent

Is Gravensteen Castle Worth Visiting?

I’d say yes! Especially if it’s your first visit to Ghent.

The Castle of the Counts already looks the part from outside, with its moat, thick grey walls, battlements and gatehouse in the middle of the city.

But the reason I’d pay to go in is that you’ll be actually be able to move through the castle rather than a string of polished museum rooms whilst you’re here.

Inside, you’ll climb tight stone stairs, pass through its former court and prison spaces, walk along the battlements and finish with views across Ghent’s rooftops.

Not to mention, the audio guide gives excellent—and very, very funny—context to everything you’re seeing as you explore.

Personally, I’d prioritise it on a one-day Ghent itinerary, alongside the Ghent Altarpiece and the historic centre. If you have longer, it also fits easily into my two-day Ghent itinerary.

A Very Short History of Gravensteen Castle

Before you visit Ghent’s most famous castle, it’s worth knowing a bit of history.

The Gravensteen Castle you see today was built in 1180 for Philip of Alsace, Count of Flanders.

At the time, Ghent had become extremely wealthy through its wool trade, and its merchants were unashamedly showing that wealth through grand stone houses.

So Philip built a much more imposing castle.

With its 30-metre central keep, moat, gatehouse and ring of watchtowers, it was not exactly a subtle reminder of who held the power.

After the Counts of Flanders stopped using it, Gravensteen became a court, prison and eventually an industrial complex with cotton mills and workers’ housing inside its walls.

By the 19th century, the castle was in poor condition and nearly demolished before the city bought and restored it. It opened to the public in 1907 and slowly but surely became one of the best things to do in Ghent.

How to Get to Gravensteen Castle

Lucky for you, Gravensteen Castle sits right in Ghent’s historic centre, so getting here is super straightforward.

It’s an easy walk from Korenmarkt and Graslei and Korenlei, and just a short tram from Gent-Sint-Pieters station.

And if you’re coming from Brussels to Ghent , it makes a perfect first stop for a day trip.

Looking for a Place to Stay Near Gravensteen Castle?

I highly recommend NH Collection Gent. It’s in the historic centre, with stylish rooms and an excellent location for exploring Gravensteen Castle and the rest of central Ghent.

check rooms & availability for nh collection gent

What’s Inside Gravensteen Castle?

Gravensteen feels more like a fortress you’re exploring than a conventional museum, with a route that takes you through the gatehouse, central keep, former courtrooms, count’s residence and battlements.

There’s also a collection of judicial objects and torture equipment from the castle’s later life as a court and prison. It’s one of the darker parts of the visit, but it doesn’t take over the entire experience.

My favourite part was the climb towards the top.

The stairs are steep and occasionally awkward, but you’re rewarded with a brilliant view over Ghent’s towers, tightly packed roofs and the city stretching beyond the historic centre.

Of course, don’t forget to take some photos!

Don’t Skip the Gravensteen Audio Guide

Completely unexpectedly, the comedy audio guide here is one of the main reasons I enjoyed Gravensteen far more than I expected.

It’s narrated by Flemish comedian Wouter Deprez and covers Philip of Alsace, the Counts of Flanders, courtly life and the castle’s less glamorous years.

It’s deliriously funny and adds a lot to the castle experience, with the option of a 90-minute route—which I recommend—or the shorter “Big Five”, which takes roughly an hour.

Both are included with your ticket and available in English.

Gravensteen Castle Tickets, Price and Opening Hours

In terms of costs at the time of writing, a standard adult ticket for Gravensteen Castle is €15.

Visitors aged 19–25 pay €7.50, children aged 13–18 pay €3 and children aged 12 and under enter free and the audio guide is included in the price.

The castle is normally open every day from 10:00 to 18:00, with last admission at 16:40. It closes on 24, 25 and 31 December and 1 January.

Personally, I’d book Gravensteen Castle tickets online if you’re visiting at the weekend, during school holidays or simply want a specific entry time.

You can also buy one on the day if tickets are still available, but given I’m a Capricorn who reeks a long queue, I would urge a bit of planning.

P.S. – Gravensteen is included with the CityCard Gent, which can be worth it if you’re also visiting places like the Ghent Belfry and a few other paid attractions during your Ghent trip.

How Long Does Gravensteen Castle Take?

I’d personally allow around 60–90 minutes for Gravensteen Castle.

An hour works if you choose the shorter audio route, but 90 minutes is better if you want the full guide, time on the battlements and a visit that doesn’t feel rushed.

I also wouldn’t book it immediately before a fixed lunch reservation at one of Ghent’s restaurants, as you might spend longer than intended here—which is a good thing.

What to Do Near Gravensteen Castle

Once you’ve finished oohing and ahhing at the grandeur and horrors of Gravensteen Castle, you can walk into the calm and cool Patershol neighbourhood or start exploring some more unusual things to do in Ghent.

You could also grab a read and dessert at Le Bal Infernal, visit the House of Alijn or settle in for wine and sharing plates at Bar Terroir.

If you’re peckish or thirsty, have a look at my best restaurants in Ghent guide or best cafés in Ghent guide to choose your next stop.

And if your legs have had enough of the castle stairs, take a 50-minute guided Ghent boat trip to see Gravensteen Castle from the water.

My Ghent boat tour guide explains the different options in more detail.

Kids, Stairs and Accessibility at Gravensteen Castle

For kids, this is probably one of Ghent’s easiest historical attractions to make exciting.

There’s a real moat, battlements, tower stairs and a free “Little Guide” at reception to keep them entertained.

Just bear in mind that the stairs are tall, narrow and uneven, so keep an eye on them!

Accessibility-wise, the castle is unfortunately not wheelchair accessible. There’s more than 480 steps, including four narrow spiral staircases, and the visitable rooms and cellars are not on the ground floor.

A companion supporting a visitor with a disability can enter free. There’s also a really helpful visio guide in Flemish or international sign language for deaf and hearing-impaired visitors, included with admission but best reserved in advance. Check the official Gravensteen accessibility information before your visit.

My Top Gravensteen Castle Tips

• Book a timed ticket: especially at weekends or during the holidays.
• Plan 60–90 minutes for your visit: and don’t forget to do the audio guide!
• Wear comfortable shoes: there’s a lot of narrow stone stairs—you’ll thank me later.
• Go at opening or later in the afternoon: if you’re anything like me and prefer fewer crowds at tourist attractions.
• Don’t bring lots of luggage: there’s no cloakroom or lockers at the castle. Storage in the stables is only available if there’s room and is at your own risk, so I’d recommend using the luggage lockers at Gent-Sint-Pieters station if you’re not staying overnight in Ghent.
• Don’t forget to explore Ghent afterwards: whether that’s a potter through Patershol, a Ghent restaurant, a drink or a last-minute boat trip before heading home.

Final Thoughts: Is Gravensteen Castle Worth It?

Gravensteen Castle is worth visiting for more than a quick photo beside the moat.

There’s the city views, battlements and darker parts of its history, well balanced by the very funny audio guide.

Although I skipped going inside on my first visit, after finally doing it on my second, I wouldn’t make that choice again.

All in all, book your ticket, give yourself around 90 minutes and prepare for quite a few stairs.

And once you’re done, it’ll be time to get on with the rest of the best things to do in Ghent.

Have the best trip!

Happy travels,

Candace x

FAQ: Gravensteen Castle Ghent

What is Gravensteen Castle?

Gravensteen is a medieval fortress in central Ghent, Belgium. Its English name is the Castle of the Counts, referring to the Counts of Flanders who built and used it as a symbol of their power.

Is Gravensteen Castle worth visiting?

Yes, I’d say so. Inside, you can see the keep, former courtrooms, battlements, judicial collections and rooftop views over Ghent. There’s also a comedy audio guide included with your ticket that makes the visit incredibly engaging.

How much are Gravensteen Castle tickets?

At the time of writing, a standard adult ticket costs €15. Visitors aged 19–25 pay €7.50, children aged 13–18 pay €3 and children aged 12 and under enter free. Check the official Gravensteen ticket information before your visit in case prices change.

Should I Buy Gravensteen Castle Tickets Online?

I would if you’re visiting at the weekend, during school holidays or want a particular time. You can book Gravensteen Castle tickets here.

How Long Does Gravensteen Castle Take?

I’d allow around 60–90 minutes. The shorter audio route takes around an hour, while the full comedy tour is better with 90 minutes.

What Are the Gravensteen Castle Opening Hours?

Gravensteen is normally open daily from 10:00 to 18:00, with last admission at 16:40. It closes on 24, 25 and 31 December and 1 January.

Is the Gravensteen Audio Guide Included?

Yes. The audio guide is included with your ticket and available in English, Dutch, French, German and Spanish.

Can You See Gravensteen Castle Without Paying?

You can walk around the exterior, moat and Sint-Veerleplein for free. But you’ll need a ticket for the keep, rooms, battlements and rooftop route. Read my free things to do in Ghent guide if you’d like to skip paid attractions in the city.

Is Gravensteen Castle Included With CityCard Gent?

Yes. Entry to Gravensteen is included with the CityCard Gent, and CityCard holders don’t need to reserve a time slot to see the castle.

What Else Should I See Near Gravensteen?

Walk through Patershol, visit the House of Alijn, browse Le Bal Infernal or continue towards Graslei and Korenlei.

Plan the rest of your Ghent trip

Still planning? Here’s more of my Ghent guides to help you decide where to stay, what to book and how to make the most of your trip.

Before you book

• Is Ghent Worth Visiting? My Honest Review After Visiting
• Bruges or Ghent? My Honest Comparison After Visiting Both

Ghent itineraries

• One Day in Ghent: My Perfect Ghent Day Trip Itinerary
• My Ghent Weekend Itinerary: How I’d Spend 2 Days in the City
• Brussels to Ghent by Train: My Experience, Ticket Tips & Day Trip Guide
• Bruges and Ghent Itinerary: How to Visit Both in One Belgium Trip

Where to stay and what to book

• The Best Places to Stay in Ghent, Belgium: My Favourite Areas & Hotels for a First Trip
• Gravensteen Castle Ghent: Tickets, Tips & What to Expect
• Best Boat Tours in Ghent, Belgium: My Honest Guide to Choosing the Best One for Your Trip

What to do and where to eat

• The Best Things to Do in Ghent, Belgium: My Favourite Sights, Food Stops & Local Gems
• Unusual Things to Do in Ghent, Belgium: My Favourite Finds
• Free Things to Do in Ghent, Belgium: My Favourite Sights & Local Finds
• 5 of the Best Restaurants in Ghent, Belgium: My Favourite Places to Eat
• Ghent Cafés: My Favourite 7 from My Trip
• 5 Best Chocolate Shops in Ghent, Belgium: My Favourite Finds