Ah, Ghent—a city where medieval charm and modern romance collide in the most photogenic way possible. If you’re planning a wedding here, you’re in for a treat! With its fairytale castles, dreamy riversides, and charming cobbled streets, Ghent is a paradise for wedding photography. But where exactly should you go to capture those once-in-a-lifetime moments? Let’s take a journey through the 10 best wedding photoshoot locations in Ghent, with some insider tips to make your photos unforgettable.
1. Gravensteen Castle – A Royal Fairytale Backdrop
If you’ve ever dreamed of feeling like royalty on your wedding day, Gravensteen Castle (official site) is your perfect setting. Built in the 12th century, this medieval fortress boasts stone towers, grand halls, and breathtaking city views—basically, a photographer’s dream.
Pro tip: Come early in the morning or at sunset for dramatic lighting and fewer tourists. If you want a cinematic feel, go for black-and-white shots—they look absolutely regal here!
2. St. Michael’s Bridge – The Iconic Ghent Shot
If there’s one shot that must be in your wedding album, it’s the one from St. Michael’s Bridge. From here, you get a picture-perfect view of Ghent’s famous “three towers”—St. Nicholas’ Church, the Belfry, and St. Bavo’s Cathedral.
Best time for photos: Just before sunset, when the golden light reflects off the canal, creating a fairytale glow. Bonus points if you catch a boat in the background!
3. Graslei & Korenlei – A Riverside Romance
The historic waterfront of Graslei and Korenlei (official site) is one of Ghent’s most romantic and scenic locations. The medieval guild houses, the shimmering water, and the charming boats passing by—it’s like stepping into a painting.
Photography tip: The best shots here are taken from across the river, capturing the couple with the stunning buildings reflected in the water. Also, evening shots with city lights can look absolutely magical.
4. Patershol – The Secret Fairytale Streets
Want a hidden-gem location with old-world charm? Patershol (more info) is a maze of narrow cobbled streets and colorful facades that create an intimate and cozy backdrop for wedding photos.
Why it’s perfect: The soft light filtering through the alleyways makes for beautifully romantic and moody portraits. Plus, fewer crowds = more intimate shots!
5. Citadel Park – A Natural Escape in the City
If you want some greenery in your wedding photos, Citadel Park is your go-to spot. It’s home to majestic trees, charming pathways, and picturesque fountains—ideal for soft, dreamy shots.
Pro tip: The golden hour (just before sunset) is absolutely magical here. If you’re lucky, you might even get some autumn leaves or spring cherry blossoms for an extra pop of color!
6. Graffiti Street (Werregarenstraat) – Bold & Unique
Not all wedding photos have to be soft and romantic! If you want something fun, vibrant, and modern, Graffiti Street (location info) is a colorful, ever-changing canvas that will make your photos pop.
Why couples love it: It adds an urban, edgy vibe to your wedding album, and it’s a great contrast to traditional castle or church shots. Plus, it’s always changing—so your photos will be truly one of a kind!
7. Belfry of Ghent – A Towering Love Story
Standing 91 meters tall, the Belfry of Ghent (official site) is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. Its majestic gothic architecture adds grandeur to your wedding portraits.
Pro tip: You can take romantic wide-angle shots with the tower in the background, or go inside and capture stunning views of the city from above.
8. St. Bavo’s Cathedral – A Divine Backdrop
Home to the world-famous Ghent Altarpiece, St. Bavo’s Cathedral (more info) is a symbol of elegance and history.
Why it’s amazing: Whether you want a traditional church wedding feel or just an elegant, gothic-style backdrop, this cathedral delivers. The stained glass windows and grand arches make for breathtaking portraits.
9. Korenmarkt – The Heart of Ghent
If you want to capture the lively spirit of Ghent, Korenmarkt is a fantastic place for dynamic and joyful wedding shots. The historic buildings, charming cafes, and bustling atmosphere add a unique, energetic touch to your photos.
Pro tip: Enjoy a candid moment—maybe sipping champagne at a terrace, walking hand in hand through the square, or sharing a spontaneous laugh. The natural, storytelling-style shots here are unbeatable!
10. Botanical Garden – A Floral Wonderland
For a fairytale garden setting, Ghent’s Botanical Garden (info) is a dream come true. Lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and enchanting little paths create a soft, romantic atmosphere for your wedding portraits.
Best season for photos: Spring and summer bring the most colorful flowers, but autumn adds golden hues that look just as magical.
Bonus: The Perfect Wedding Photoshoot Route
💡 Want to hit multiple spots in one shoot? Try this route:
1️⃣ Start early morning at Gravensteen Castle for epic, quiet shots.
2️⃣ Wander through Patershol for intimate, hidden-street moments.
3️⃣ Head to Graslei & Korenlei for those iconic riverside reflections.
4️⃣ Capture the sunset at St. Michael’s Bridge for a golden, cinematic ending.
Make Your Ghent Wedding Photos Truly Unforgettable
Your wedding photos deserve to be as breathtaking as your love story. And as a professional destination wedding photographer, I know exactly how to capture the magic of Ghent in every frame.
✨ Want to see how your wedding photos could look? Check out my portfolio here.
📷 Curious about my photography packages? Find all the details here.
💌 Ready to create something unforgettable together? Let’s chat here.
Because your love story deserves nothing less than the most magical, timeless photos. ❤️
