The historic core of Ghent is small enough to walk, and most of the major sights are within a comfortable 20-minute circuit of the Belfry. The canal streets can be confusing at first — the medieval layout doesn't follow a grid — but getting deliberately lost in the lanes between the Graslei and the Vrijdagmarkt is one of the pleasures of the city.
Ghent has four tram lines (T1, T2, T3, T4) and an extensive bus network operated by De Lijn. Trams connect the Sint-Pieters train station to the city centre and to the university areas. Day passes are available and represent good value if you're staying more than one day.
The city is flat and cycling is the local choice for getting around. Bikes can be hired from the Blue-bike system (linked to the railway) and from several independent hire shops. The cycling infrastructure is generally good.