Pet-Friendly Attractions in Ghent

The 12th-century Castle of the Counts — Gravensteen — is Ghent's most dramatic landmark and one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Northern Europe. Dogs are not allowed inside the castle, but the exterior and the surrounding Sint-Veerleplein square are fully dog-friendly. The canal views from the bridge in front of the castle are spectacular and among the most photographed spots in Belgium.

Ghent's historic Friday Market square — the political heart of the medieval city. The square is fully outdoor and dog-friendly, surrounded by café terraces that welcome dogs. On Fridays, a general market is held here. The surrounding streets of the Patershol neighbourhood radiate outward from this square — making it a perfect base for a dog-friendly morning walk through the city's most atmospheric district.

The Sint-Baafsplein is Ghent's grandest square — home to the Cathedral of Saint Bavo, the city's opera house, and surrounded by historic buildings. Dogs are welcome in the square and around the cathedral exterior. The Mystic Lamb altarpiece (inside the cathedral) is not accessible with dogs, but the outdoor setting with the cathedral's Gothic façade and the Belfry nearby is spectacular.