Paul de Smet de Naeyer Park

About

Paul de Smet de Naeyer Park is a charming neighbourhood park in Ghent, offering a peaceful green escape just steps from the lively streets of the city’s south side. Named after the Belgian statesman Paul de Smet de Naeyer, the park blends gentle landscaping with a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Its winding paths, mature trees and open lawns create an inviting setting for quiet walks, casual picnics or simply enjoying a moment of calm. A small pond adds to the park’s tranquil character, attracting birds and reflecting the surrounding greenery. Though modest in size, the park plays an important role in daily community life, providing a refreshing pocket of nature for residents, students and visitors alike. Paul de Smet de Naeyer Park remains a beloved local retreat, valued for its simplicity, accessibility and soothing natural charm.

Ghent Belgium

Location

Paul de Smet de Naeyer Park is located at Paul de Smet de Naeyerplein 13 in Ghent’s upscale Millionaires’ Quarter (Miljoenenkwartier), a protected historic area in the Sint-Pieters-Aalst neighborhood southeast of the city center. This oval-shaped green space, originally the central site of the 1913 World Exhibition, features gravel paths, mature chestnut trees, statues including a bust of the park’s namesake former prime minister, and recent expansions with play areas and speelnatuur for families. Nearby, elegant villas in Art Deco and modernist styles line the streets, while a short walk or tram ride connects to Sint-Pietersabdij abbey, Ghent University’s Boekentoren library tower, Museum of Fine Arts (MSK), SMAK contemporary art museum, Vooruit arts center, and the historic core with Gravensteen Castle, Belfry, and Graslei waterfront.