Introduction: The E17 Corridor
The E17 highway connecting Antwerp to Ghent follows a route established during the Roman era, when it served as part of the road linking Bavay in France to the North Sea. Today, this 57-kilometer stretch passes through the heart of Flanders' industrial and agricultural zones, with the Port of Antwerp's influence visible in the container terminals and logistics parks along the initial segment. The drive typically takes 45-60 minutes without stops, but the region between these two historic cities offers numerous reasons to extend your journey. This guide provides practical information for those considering whether to drive between Antwerp and Ghent, including specific road details, timing estimates, and worthwhile detours that transform a simple transit into a multi-day exploration of Flemish culture and landscape.
Recommended Intermediary Locations
For those wondering about things to do between Antwerp and Ghent, several locations merit consideration. Sint-Niklaas, approximately 25 kilometers from Antwerp (exit 15 on E17), features the largest market square in Belgium at 3.19 hectares, surrounded by 19th-century architecture. The town's beguinage, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers quiet courtyards contrasting with the commercial activity of the Grote Markt. Dendermonde, accessible via exit 20, presents a different character with its restored town hall dating from 1337 and the Béguinage Church containing woodcarvings by local artist Jan Boecksent. The Dender River waterfront provides walking paths with views of the city's defensive structures. For automotive enthusiasts, the how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities approach applies particularly well to discovering smaller attractions like the Bugatti Museum in Sint-Truiden (a 30-minute detour south via E40), which houses five original Bugatti vehicles in a converted farmhouse. Closer to the highway, the village of Wetteren offers the Mola textile museum documenting the region's industrial heritage, while the castle of Laarne, visible from the E17 near exit 13, represents 14th-century military architecture with moats and circular towers.
Three-Day Exploration Plan
An Antwerp to Ghent itinerary spanning three days allows thorough examination of both cities and their intermediate territory. Day one begins in Antwerp with morning visits to the Cathedral of Our Lady (construction began 1352) and the Plantin-Moretus Museum, the only UNESCO-listed printing museum worldwide. After lunch featuring local dishes like paling in 't groen (eel in green sauce) at a traditional establishment such as De Groote Witte Arend, drive 30 minutes to Sint-Niklaas for overnight accommodation. Day two includes Sint-Niklaas' Saturday market (7:00 AM-1:00 PM) followed by a 20-minute drive to Dendermonde for afternoon exploration of the town hall and beguinage. Continue to Ghent (30 minutes) for evening arrival, dining along the Graslei waterfront. Day three in Ghent focuses on the Castle of the Counts (Gravensteen), completed in 1180, and the Ghent Altarpiece at St. Bavo's Cathedral, with optional boat tours along the Leie River. This schedule provides approximately 6-8 hours of driving total, distributed across multiple segments to minimize fatigue while maximizing cultural exposure. Accommodation options range from boutique hotels in historic buildings to modern chain properties near highway exits, with average rates of €80-€140 per night depending on season and location.
Route Logistics and Practical Details
| Route Option | Distance | Driving Time | Key Roads | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Direct Highway | 57 km | 45-60 min | E17 (A14) | Toll-free, 2-3 lanes each direction |
| Scenic Alternative | 65-80 km | 90-120 min | N70, N16, local roads | Passes through smaller towns |
| With Major Stops | 70-100 km | Full day | Combination | Includes Sint-Niklaas, Dendermonde |
The most efficient route follows the E17 highway (also designated A14 in Belgium), which runs directly between Antwerp and Ghent. From Antwerp's city center, take the Ring R1 to exit 7 for the E17 toward Ghent/Kortrijk. The highway maintains a 120 km/h speed limit outside urban areas, reducing to 70-90 km/h near exits. Traffic congestion typically occurs weekdays 7:30-9:00 AM and 4:30-6:30 PM, particularly around the Antwerp ring road and approaching Ghent. Alternative routes using the N70 through Sint-Niklaas or N16 through Dendermonde offer more varied scenery but add 20-40 minutes to travel time. Parking in both cities requires planning: Antwerp's underground parking at Groenplaats costs approximately €3.50 per hour, while Ghent's P+R (Park and Ride) facilities at Sint-Pieters station offer €5 daily rates with tram access to the historic center.
Continue Your Adventure
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to drive from Antwerp to Ghent?
The direct drive via E17 highway typically requires 45-60 minutes without traffic, covering 57 kilometers. During peak congestion periods (weekday mornings and evenings), this can extend to 75-90 minutes. Alternative scenic routes through smaller towns add 20-40 minutes to travel time.
What are the best stops between Antwerp and Ghent?
Sint-Niklaas offers Belgium's largest market square and a UNESCO-listed beguinage. Dendermonde features a 14th-century town hall and riverfront walking paths. The Bugatti Museum in Sint-Truiden (30-minute detour) displays vintage automobiles. Laarne Castle near exit 13 presents medieval architecture visible from the highway.
Is driving from Antwerp to Ghent worth it compared to taking the train?
Driving provides flexibility for intermediate stops and carries advantages for travelers with luggage or those visiting multiple locations. The train journey takes approximately 50 minutes with frequent departures, but requires transfers for intermediary towns. For exploring beyond city centers or traveling in groups, driving often proves more practical despite parking considerations.
What should I include in a 3-day Antwerp to Ghent itinerary?
Day 1: Antwerp's cathedral and Plantin-Moretus Museum, then drive to Sint-Niklaas. Day 2: Sint-Niklaas market, Dendermonde historic sites, evening arrival in Ghent. Day 3: Ghent's Gravensteen castle and St. Bavo's Cathedral. This distributes driving across multiple short segments while allowing substantial time at each location.
What are notable things to do between Antwerp and Ghent?
Visit Sint-Niklaas' Grote Markt on Saturday mornings, explore Dendermonde's beguinage and town hall, view Laarne Castle from the highway or visit its grounds, examine textile history at Wetteren's Mola museum, or detour to the Bugatti Museum in Sint-Truiden for automotive exhibits.
Your voluntary support keeps the project running and fuels our future development
