Ghent is a beautiful city in Belgium. It’s known for its canals, castles, and student life. Many people visit Ghent to explore its history and culture.

Getting around the city is simple. You don’t need a car. Ghent has good public transportation. It’s cheap, fast, and easy to use.

In this article, I’ll show you how to use public transportation in Ghent. You’ll learn about trams, buses, bikes, and walking. This guide will help you travel like a local.

Overview of Ghent’s Public Transportation System

Public transport in Ghent is run by a company called De Lijn. You will see their name on trams and buses.

There are two main ways to travel:

• Trams (like small trains that run on tracks)
• Buses

Both go to many places in the city. They run often, especially during the day.

You can buy one ticket and use it for both tram and bus. You don’t need a different ticket for each.

There is also a bike-sharing system if you want to cycle. And the city center is great for walking.

Public transport is a good way to explore Ghent. It’s simple, safe, and helps you avoid traffic.

Trams – The Heart of Urban Mobility

Trams are one of the best ways to travel in Ghent. They are fast and easy to use.

The most useful tram lines for tourists are:

• Tram 1 – It goes from the train station (Sint-Pieters) to the city center. It stops near many sights.
• Tram 4 – It goes through different parts of the city, including shopping streets.

Trams come often, especially during the day. At night, they come less often.

To ride a tram:

1. Buy a ticket before you get on.
2. Validate your ticket when you board (using the yellow machine).
3. Watch the screen or listen for your stop.

Trams are clean and usually on time. They are also easy to use if you don’t speak Dutch. Stops are clearly marked.

If you want to see the main sights without walking too much, trams are a great choice of public transportation in Ghent.

Buses – Connecting the City and Beyond

Buses in Ghent go to places where trams don’t. They are good if you want to visit areas outside the city center.

You can use the same ticket for buses and trams. That makes it easy to switch if you need to.

Bus stops are found all over the city. Look for the yellow De Lijn sign. There is a map and schedule at most stops.

Buses run often during the day. In the evening, they come less often. At night, there are some night buses, but not many. Check the times before you go out late.

You can also take a bus to nearby towns or to parts of Ghent that are further away.

If you’re staying outside the center, the bus is a helpful option.

Tickets & Travel Passes

You need a ticket to ride the tram or bus in Ghent. One ticket works for both.

Here are the main ticket options:

• Single ticket – Good for one trip. It lasts 60 minutes.
• Day pass – Ride as much as you want for one day.
• 10-ride card – Good for 10 trips. You can share it with someone else.
• Lijn card – A prepaid card you can load with money.

You can buy tickets:

• At ticket machines (near tram stops)
• In some shops (look for the De Lijn sign)
• On the De Lijn app (easy if you have internet)
• In the bus by tapping your card

You can also tap your credit or debit card on the ticket machine inside the bus or tram. The system will charge €2.10 from your card. That’s the price of a single ride. It’s quick and easy.

Always validate your ticket when you board. Use the yellow machine or tap your card.

Biking in Ghent

Ghent is a bike-friendly city, and cycling is a popular way to explore it. However, the city center has cobblestone streets and can be crowded, especially on weekends. If you’re not comfortable navigating through busy areas or uneven surfaces, it might be better to walk in the center.​

For exploring areas outside the city center, biking is an excellent option. You can ride to places like Blaarmeersen park, Dok Noord, or along the canals.​

Bike Rental Options:

De Fietsambassade Gent: This city-run service offers various types of bikes for rent, including basic bikes, comfort bikes, and folding bikes. It’s suitable for longer rentals and provides strong locks to prevent theft.

Donkey Republic: This bike-sharing service offers orange bikes available at various locations throughout Ghent. You can rent a bike 24/7 using the Donkey Republic app. Simply find a bike on the map, unlock it with your phone, and start riding. When you’re done, return it to a designated drop-off location.

Blue-bike: Available at stations like Gent-Sint-Pieters and Gent-Dampoort, Blue-bike offers bikes for rent via their app. It’s a convenient option if you’re arriving by train and want to continue your journey by bike. ​

Guided Urban Mountain Bike Tour in Ghent

For a unique and active way to explore Ghent, consider joining the Guided Urban Mountain Bike Tour. This 2.5-hour tour takes you beyond the typical tourist spots, allowing you to discover hidden gems and vibrant street art through the eyes of a local guide.​

Highlights of the tour:

• Ride through both historic landmarks and lesser-known areas of Ghent.
• Enjoy insights and stories from an enthusiastic local guide.
• Experience the city’s dynamic suburbs and artistic neighborhoods.
• Receive a complimentary drinking bottle and a Polaroid picture as souvenirs.
• Benefit from a small group setting, ensuring a personalized experience.​

The tour includes mountain bike and helmet rental, and is suitable for participants aged 16 to 75 who are comfortable cycling. It’s a great option for those looking to see a different side of Ghent while staying active

Walking in Ghent

Walking is one of the best ways to explore Ghent. The city center is compact, and many sights are close to each other.

Most of the center is a car-free zone. That means it’s quiet and safe for walking. You can enjoy the streets without traffic noise.

You’ll find lots of cobblestone paths, so wear comfortable shoes. Some areas can be a bit uneven.

Good places to walk:

• Graslei and Korenlei – beautiful views by the water
• Patershol – a small, old neighborhood with charm
• Castle of the Counts – right in the middle of town
• Vrijdagmarkt and Kouter – lively city squares

Walking lets you stop at cafés, shops, and museums whenever you like. Like these 10 best spots for breakfast in Ghent. You’ll see small details you might miss on a tram or bike.

Ghent’s Commitment to Sustainability

Ghent cares a lot about the environment. The city wants to reduce traffic and pollution.

That’s why much of the center is a Low Emission Zone (LEZ). Old, polluting cars are not allowed. If you drive one, you’ll have to pay a fee or leave it outside the city.

Instead, Ghent encourages people to walk, bike, or use public transport. This makes the air cleaner and the streets safer.

There are also many green spaces and bike lanes. The city is working to become even more eco-friendly in the future.

As a visitor, you can help too. Use the tram or bus. Walk when you can. Rent a bike to go further. It’s good for the planet — and a great way to enjoy the city.

Tips for Tourists

Here are a few simple tips to help you travel smoothly in Ghent:

• Use apps like the De Lijn app, Google Maps, or Citymapper to plan your trips. They show tram and bus times and routes.
• Buy your ticket before you get on the tram or bus. It’s cheaper that way.
• If you forget, you can tap your bank card on the machine inside. It costs €2.10 for one ride.
• Validate your ticket every time you board. Use the yellow machine or the tap system.
• Avoid rush hour if you can (early mornings and late afternoons on weekdays). It’s less crowded at other times.
• Watch for bikes and trams when walking. They can be very quiet.
• Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Many people in Ghent speak English and are happy to assist.
• Always check the last tram or bus time, especially if you’re out late.

Final Thoughts

Getting around Ghent is simple. You don’t need a car. Trams, buses, bikes, and walking can take you everywhere you want to go.

Public transport is affordable, easy to use, and better for the planet. Biking lets you explore more, and walking helps you take in the details.

Whether you’re here for a weekend or a longer stay, Ghent makes it easy to travel like a local. So hop on a tram, rent a bike, or just take a walk — and enjoy the ride.