Lonely Planet named the Graslei / Kornlei area of Gent as one of the “Top 7 Places To Sit and Have a Beer.” I can certainly see why. This picturesque spot in medieval Gent, Belgium is a beautiful place to sit and imbibe.
I saw all the impressive, old architecture I’d expected to. It was not unlike Bruges – another hot spot for tourists, but Gent was less crowded and thereby more appealing to me.
I took the obligatory postcard shots of beautiful old buildings. Though elegant and awe-inspiring, they began to blur together. Then, amidst the architectural gems, I saw a few things that surprised me.
This message rests outside a produce and crafts market, but I never learned why. It didn’t really matter; it intrigued me all the same.
Then, I veered off down an alley that was very modern in its street art graffiti and was a vast playground of shiny color in this otherwise austere town.
Which appeals to you more? European architecture or street art?
Browsing The Atlas 
This is a fun post. I always like to veer off the track and go into less traveled areas to find things exactly like this! Walking is such a great way to find these details, no?
Absolutely! I just hope I can find it again next time.
Had to think a bit about my answer, but EU architecture catching my attention more.
Luckily, we don’t really have to pick just one. 😉
I can’t believe I missed Gent when I was in Belgium! I’m big, no wait scratch that, OBSESSED with street art, so I would have totally loved this place!
Go back next time. But I have to tell you, I completely stumbled upon it by accident. A lucky accident, but an accident all the same. I wrote down that it was on Werregaren Straat.
I love Belgium full stop but Gent in particular was somewhere I really liked.
I did too, Spencer. But to be honest, I didn’t find anyplace in Belgium that I didn’t like. 🙂
We explored Ghent two springs ago, and loved its architecture, friendly people and the strawberries and cream. A delightful spot. Did you get a chance to climb the belltower?
I didn’t, though I plan to next time. I was content to sit and stare over the water after I wandered around until I couldn’t wander anymore.