The 5 smartest cocktail bars in Ghent

Jigger’s is a mysterious hidden cocktail bar on the edge of the ancient Patershol district. It has a relaxed Ghent vibe with a bar that feels like a private club and a terrace looking out on the river. The smartly-attired bartenders add to the mood with quirky cocktails made from seasonal produce and foraged flavours. There’s also some food available.

Here is a fun cocktail bar with a striking new interior inspired by the cult science fiction film Tron. It attracts a younger crowd with its quirky cocktails.

This lively night cafe near the university creates a tropical mood on dark winter nights with its painted bar stools, metal signs and African beats. It opens its doors in the early evening, serving tequila cocktails, Belgian beers and tapas dishes. Every year during the Gentse Feesten, the cafe organises the vibrant Polé Polé festival on the Leie waterfront.

This is a stylish cocktail bar on two floors with dark brown chairs and little round tables. It opens in the morning to serve coffee, but mainly exists to shake up exotic cocktails until deep into the night. Don’t miss the toilets in the basement, which are decorated in the style of Turkish baths with marble benches, red cushions and tiled basins. Men use the door marked Gazou.

This relaxed bohemian spot sets out to attract global travellers with its exotic interior and sophisticated cocktails. You sit on old armchairs surrounded by maps, travel posters and guidebooks. Or you might manage to find a table outside in the shady back garden.