BELGIUM - Europe by Eurail 2015: Touring Europe by Train - page 77

Ghent is one of the true Flemish water towns. Three rivers—the Schelde, the Lys,
the Lieve—plus a canal flow through it. This accounts for its more than 100 bridges
and its Celtic name, “Ganda,” meaning a place of confluence. In the 14th century,
Ghent was the second-largest city north of the Alps after Paris. In 1827 the cut-
ting of the Terneuzen canal made Ghent the second-largest seaport in Belgium. In
more modern times, Ghent has become world famous for its flower show and the
International Ghent Fair. Both are held in the Flanders Expo, a trade fair complex
a few kilometers from the center of Ghent.
Brussels (Bruxelles)—Ghent (Gent)
At least three trains per hour depart Midi/Zuid at 05, 26, and 59 minutes after the
hour; journey time approximately 30 minutes. Trains depart first from Nord, then
Central, and then Midi/Zuid.
Returning trains (at least three each hour) depart Ghent at 04, 16, and 25 minutes
after the hour; journey time approximately 30 minutes. Trains arrive first at Midi/
Zuid, then Central, and then Nord.
Distance: 40 miles (64 km)
Ask for the free brochure All Information for Tourists at the tourist office. The bro-
chure includes a map with different walking tours. Each is color-coded, and places
of interest are indicated. During the summer season, guided walking tours for indi-
viduals start at the tourist office every day. Or what about enjoying a carriage trip
or a boat excursion?
A museum pass is available from the tourist office, which at €35 for 72 hours
provides free admission to 15 museums and monuments, as well as free city bus
and tram use.
Saint Michael's Bridge, in the heart of the city, is a good place to begin your
walking tour. The view from here is impressive, with church towers and guild
houses rimming the skyline. In the distance you can see the CastleoftheCounts,
one of the most imposing feudal fortresses in Europe today. It played a prominent
role in Ghent's history during feudal times. The tradespeople had united in a num-
ber of strong guilds and could offer armed resistance against their feudal lords, the
counts, when said gentry came to collect the rent. The town hall and the Belfry,