Ah, Ghent! A city where history whispers through cobbled streets, where medieval towers stretch towards the sky, and where love stories have unfolded for centuries. If you’re dreaming of a fairy-tale wedding with grand halls, candlelit courtyards, and the romance of centuries past, then a castle wedding in Ghent might just be your perfect match.
But let’s be honest – choosing the right castle isn’t just about aesthetics. You want the magic without the medieval plumbing issues, the grandeur without the ghost of a 14th-century duke photobombing your pictures. Fear not! I’ve done the research, so you don’t have to. Here are the top 10 most romantic castle wedding venues in Ghent, complete with practical tips, secret gems, and a touch of humor.
1. Gravensteen Castle – The Ultimate Medieval Fairytale
📍 Location: Sint-Veerleplein 11, 9000 Ghent | Website
Imagine saying your vows in a 12th-century fortress with towering stone walls and panoramic views over Ghent. Gravensteen Castle, also known as the Castle of the Counts, is the city’s most famous medieval landmark – and yes, you can have your wedding here!
✨ Why you’ll love it:
✔ Epic medieval atmosphere (think “Game of Thrones” but with better catering).
✔ Stunning rooftop views for breathtaking wedding photos.
✔ A dramatic entrance – you and your guests walk over a stone bridge above the moat.
💡 Pro tip: This castle is perfect for smaller, intimate weddings due to its historical structure. Check availability early, as it’s a major tourist attraction!
2. Ooidonk Castle – A Flemish Renaissance Dream
📍 Location: Deinze, 15 km from Ghent | Website
If you’re looking for a storybook chateau with French elegance, Ooidonk Castle is a showstopper. This 16th-century Flemish Renaissance masterpiece sits gracefully by the River Leie, surrounded by lush gardens and serene water reflections.
✨ Why you’ll love it:
✔ Grand halls filled with art, antiques, and chandeliers.
✔ Romantic gardens for outdoor ceremonies.
✔ A rich history – this castle once belonged to Spanish nobility!
💡 Pro tip: You can rent out parts of the castle for receptions, and there’s a guesthouse on-site for you and your closest loved ones.
3. Laarne Castle – The Moat-Surrounded Marvel
📍 Location: Laarne, 11 km from Ghent | Website
Ever dreamed of crossing a drawbridge to meet your beloved at the altar? Laarne Castle is one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Belgium, complete with a fairy-tale moat, tapestry-filled halls, and candlelit salons.
✨ Why you’ll love it:
✔ A stunning courtyard for a romantic outdoor reception.
✔ A mix of medieval charm and art-filled interiors.
✔ One of the most exclusive wedding venues near Ghent.
💡 Pro tip: This venue is perfect for couples who want a private, intimate wedding with a royal feel.
4. Castle of Zwijnaarde – An Elegant Hidden Gem
📍 Location: Zwijnaarde, Ghent | Website
If you’re searching for aristocratic elegance, Castle of Zwijnaarde is a hidden gem just a short drive from Ghent’s city center. Surrounded by a lush park, this castle feels both romantic and exclusive.
✨ Why you’ll love it:
✔ Stunning winter garden overlooking a tranquil pond.
✔ Private, serene atmosphere.
✔ Perfect for both intimate weddings and grand celebrations.
💡 Pro tip: The castle has multiple salons that can be customized to match your wedding vision.
5. Blauwendael Castle – Neo-Renaissance Beauty
📍 Location: Waasmunster, 30 km from Ghent | Website
For those who love a mix of history and elegance, Blauwendael Castle offers a Neo-Renaissance setting with fairy-tale turrets, lush gardens, and stunning interiors.
✨ Why you’ll love it:
✔ Beautiful glass-roofed hall for receptions.
✔ A romantic setting with fountains and flower gardens.
✔ Conveniently located between Ghent and Antwerp.
💡 Pro tip: This venue allows for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies, making it perfect for all seasons.
6. Monasterium PoortAckere – A Gothic Monastery Turned Wedding Venue
📍 Location: Ghent | Website
Not a castle, but still a magical historic venue, Monasterium PoortAckere is a former Neo-Gothic monastery with stunning arched halls and a secluded garden.
✨ Why you’ll love it:
✔ Unique chapel and gothic ambiance.
✔ A peaceful inner courtyard for a romantic reception.
✔ Historic charm without the drafty castle walls.
💡 Pro tip: Ideal for couples who love historical architecture but prefer a more cozy setting.
7. The Oude Vismijn – A Historic Market Turned Wedding Venue
📍 Location: Ghent | Website
For a historic yet urban vibe, the Oude Vismijn (Old Fish Market) is a surprising but stunning alternative to a castle.
✨ Why you’ll love it:
✔ Central location with a view of Gravensteen Castle.
✔ A spacious, elegant hall with exposed beams.
✔ A mix of history and modern comfort.
💡 Pro tip: This venue is perfect for large weddings in the heart of Ghent!
Final Thoughts: Which Castle Will Host Your Love Story?
From medieval fortresses to Renaissance chateaus, Ghent offers some of the most breathtaking wedding venues in Belgium. Whether you envision a grand celebration in Ooidonk Castle, an intimate gathering in Laarne Castle, or a historic city wedding at the Oude Vismijn, there’s a perfect spot waiting for you.
But here’s the thing – your venue is just the beginning. The right wedding photographer (that’s me! 😉) will turn your castle wedding into a timeless fairy tale.
📷 Let’s make magic together! Explore my wedding photography portfolio here, check out my photo packages here, and let’s chat about capturing your love story here.
💍 Because every love story deserves to be told beautifully – and what better way than in a castle? 🏰✨
