East Flanders

East Flanders

At its heart lies Ghent. A city where grand towers, waterways and lively squares come together. Its medieval streets are filled with cafés, small shops and student life. Giving the city a relaxed energy from morning to night. Beyond Ghent, East Flanders reveals a softer side. The Lys Valley is known for its scenic riverside villages that once inspired famous painters. Towns like Deinze, Sint-Martens-Latem and Ooidonk bring together waterways, art history and walking paths. The region’s rural areas are filled with farms, mills, and gentle hills. Ideal for cycling or scenic driving routes. East Flanders also has a rich taste profile. Local breweries, small chocolate makers and traditional restaurants give visitors plenty to try. Markets and food festivals add even more color to the experience. East Flanders has a pleasant mix of culture and countryside. It is the kind of province where you can explore a lot in a single day.

East Flanders highlights

Part of these road trips

Follow the routes that cross this destination

The Scenic Route
The Heritage Drive
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History of East Flanders

Its story begins along the Scheldt and Leie rivers, where early settlements grew into trading hubs. By the 10th century, Ghent had already become a major center of power under the Counts of Flanders. During the Middle Ages, East Flanders flourished. Ghent became one of Europe’s largest cities, famous for its cloth production and influential guilds. The construction of landmarks like the Gravensteen, St. Nicholas’ Church, and St. Bavo’s Cathedral reflects the wealth and ambition of this era. Cities such as Aalst, Oudenaarde and Dendermonde also grew as craft centers. Known for tapestry, brewing and trade. The 18th and 19th centuries brought industrial change. Ghent became an early textile powerhouse, fueled by new waterways and rail connections. You can explore fortified squares, medieval streets and countryside shaped by the same waterways that shaped this province through time.
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