Wandering around Ghent: Experience the ritual of a cup of coffee and croissants in the ancient Belgian city

The three o'clock afternoon sun shone obliquely on Ghent's canal, dyeing the water surface into broken gold. I dragged my luggage across the Saint-Michel Bridge. Under the bridge, a cruise ship was slowly passing by carrying smiling tourists. The tour guide's commentary mixed with the church bells echoed softly in the air. A mix of sunlight and shadow Afternoon is the best time to appreciate Ghent's architecture. Sunlight filtered through the spires of the Gothic buildings, casting geometric spots of light on the cobblestone road. The shadow of St. Bavo's Cathedral lies obliquely across the square, while the town hall on the other side is coated with a warm golden color. I sat on the steps in front of the church and watched tourists take turns taking photos with Jan van Eyck's poster of "The Love of the Mystic Lamb" - the original was in the church behind me, but at this moment I was enjoying the warmth of the sun on my back more. Ghent in the afternoon seemed to be under a spell. The mist on the canal had not yet dissipated, and the spires of the Gothic buildings were looming in the morning light. I walked aimlessly along the cobblestone path near Gravensteen Castle until the aroma of coffee drew me into a low-key cafe: Wayspecial This coffee shop hidden in the old town has a low-key facade that is almost missed, but the moment you push open the door, the aroma of coffee in the air immediately makes you wake up. The space inside the store is not big, but it is full of warmth. I ordered a latte and two croissants. The picture of milk foam and espresso blending together makes me happy just by looking at it. The ultimate croissant: crispy, fluffy and buttery. If you come to Ghent, don't just pass by. Find a morning, let a cup of good coffee and a perfect croissant take you to experience the most charming daily life of this city. In Ghent, history echoes with every step you take.