Overview
St. Nicholas' Church is a 13th-century Scheldt Gothic church and one of Ghent's oldest. Built from distinctive blue-grey Tournai limestone, its central tower is a key part of Ghent's three-tower skyline. Inside, soaring Gothic ceilings and stained glass impress, along with ornate decorations that reflect the wealth of medieval merchants. The Korenmarkt square in front of the church is a central tram stop and the city's main meeting point.
Opening Hours
Mon-Fri 10:00-17:00, Sat 10:00-15:30 (Sun: Mass times only).
Travel Tips
Enter directly from Korenmarkt. Admission is free, so step inside without hesitation. During Ghent's Light Festival, beautiful projections illuminate the church exterior.
Hotels near St. Nicholas' Church
Hotels and guesthouses in Ghent, Korenmarkt, Ghent
Other attractions in Ghent
St. Bavo's Cathedral
Belgium's signature cathedral, home of the Van Eyck brothers' Ghent Altarpiece.
Gravensteen Castle
The medieval Castle of the Counts of Flanders, standing right in the city center.
Graslei
Ghent's most beautiful canal-side street, lined with medieval guild houses.
St Michael's Bridge
The photo spot where you can see Ghent's three towers (St. Bavo's, the Belfry, and St. Nicholas) in one view.
Belfry of Ghent
A 91m UNESCO World Heritage belfry — an elevator takes you to the observation deck.
Patershol
Ghent's most charming old quarter, with narrow cobblestone streets and medieval buildings.
Design Museum Gent
A museum in an 18th-century mansion exploring Belgian design history and contemporary design.