If you’re wondering where to stay in Ghent, Belgium, you’ve come to the right place. Ghent is one of the most charming cities in Belgium, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and delicious cuisine. Whether you’re planning a trip to Belgium for the first time or returning to explore more of this beautiful city, deciding where to stay is crucial for a comfortable and memorable experience. Ghent is located in the heart of Belgium, making it an easily accessible destination with a variety of accommodations to suit every traveler’s needs.
Quick travel guide of the best accommodation in Ghent: 🏩
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Reylof
- ✨ Unique Stay: 1898 The Post
- 🏨 4-Star: Yalo Urban Boutique Hotel Gent
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Ibis Gent Centrum St. Baafs Kathedraal
- 💸 Cheap: De Draecke Hostel
- 🏢 Apartment: Smartflats Design - River View
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Hostel Uppelink
- 🏩 For Couples: The House of Edward
The Best Places to Stay in Ghent: Quick Guide 📙
- 🏨 For First-Time Visitors: City Center
- 🎉 For History and Nightlife: Patershol
- 🏡 For Local Atmosphere: Prinsenhof
- 🚉 For Convenience: Sint-Pietersnieuwstraat
- 🍴 For Foodies: Hoogstraat
1. Historic City Center – Where to Stay in Ghent for Sightseeing 🏙️
🌟 Must-stay spot: The city centre of Ghent is a must-stay destination for sightseeing enthusiasts. This compact and walkable area is packed with top attractions, delicious restaurants, and charming cafes. I recommend staying here to make the most of your Ghent experience.
Top Attractions:
- 🏰 Gravensteen Castle: Explore the medieval fortress and its fascinating history.
- ⛪ St. Bavo’s Cathedral: Marvel at the stunning architecture and the famous Ghent Altarpiece.
- 🔔 The Belfry: Climb to the top for panoramic views of the city.
- 🌊 Graslei and Korenlei Canals: Admire the picturesque views and historic buildings along these scenic canals.
- 🛍️ Old Market Area: Visit the bustling square and explore the surrounding streets for unique shops and eateries.
🚶 Walkable area: The city centre is easily navigable on foot, with most attractions within walking distance. If you need to travel further, the city’s tram and bus lines are efficient and convenient. For a unique perspective, take a river boat tour along the Leie River.
🍽️ Traditional cuisine: De Waterreus offers traditional Belgian cuisine in a cozy setting, perfect for those looking to enjoy local flavors. For a taste of modern Flemish dishes, Pakhuis is an excellent choice, housed in a beautifully restored warehouse. If you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, head to Barrazza, a laid-back cafe overlooking the river where you can unwind with a drink. Lastly, for beer enthusiasts, Dulle Griet boasts the city’s largest selection of Belgian beers in a lively atmosphere.
🏛️ Historic charm: Ghent’s historic city centre is steeped in history and culture. The city’s medieval architecture, picturesque canals, and world-renowned art treasures like the Ghent Altarpiece make it a must-visit destination. Take time to appreciate the city’s rich heritage and soak up the unique atmosphere.
🌅 Sunset stroll: One of my favorite experiences in Ghent was taking a sunset stroll along the Graslei and Korenlei Canals. The picturesque views, charming atmosphere, and historic buildings made for an unforgettable evening. I suggest doing the same to make the most of your Ghent experience.
Best Hotels in Ghent, Historic City Centre 🏩
⭐ Best luxury hotels in Ghent City Centre
- Hotel Harmony This luxurious family-run hotel in the city center offers rooms with warm décor, a Nespresso machine, and modern bathrooms. Guests can enjoy a heated swimming pool and a daily buffet breakfast with a variety of options.
- Yalo Urban Boutique Hotel Gent This 4-star hotel in Ghent features air-conditioned rooms with modern amenities, including a coffee machine and flat-screen TV. It also offers a terrace, a restaurant, and bike rental services for exploring the city.
- Vakantielogies Cathedral This hotel offers comfortable rooms with LED TVs and private or hallway bathrooms, located just 984 feet from Ghent’s historical center. Guests can enjoy free WiFi, private parking, and a delicious breakfast served in the nearby Hotel Cathedral.turism
🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels
- Place 2 Stay This property provides modern apartments with fully equipped kitchens, ideal for longer stays. Guests can enjoy free WiFi and easy access to local attractions and public transport.
- Flandria Hotel This budget-friendly hotel offers simple, comfortable rooms with free WiFi and a shared lounge area. It is a great option for travelers looking for affordable accommodation in the city.
- B&B Faja Lobi B&B Faja Lobi provides cozy accommodations with a warm, welcoming atmosphere and modern amenities. Guests appreciate the friendly staff, comfortable rooms, and convenient location close to Ghent’s main attractions.
🛏️ Best Ghent Hotels on a budget
- Getaway Studios Gent These modern studios offer a kitchenette, flat-screen TV, and free WiFi, making them perfect for extended stays. The property also provides a convenient location for exploring the city’s attractions.
- Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Reylof Ghent This luxurious hotel combines modern design with an elegant Louis XIV interior, offering comfortable rooms with high-quality linens and beautiful artwork. Guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant, spa, and gym facilities.
- Residence Inn Ghent This extended-stay hotel offers spacious apartment suites with fully equipped kitchens and a complimentary grocery delivery service. Guests can start their day with a free breakfast buffet and enjoy the pet-friendly environment.
2. Patershol – Best Neighborhood to Stay for History and Nightlife 🎉
🌟 Perfect stay: Patershol is the best neighborhood in Ghent for history buffs and nightlife lovers. This charming area is a blend of medieval streets, trendy bars, and cozy restaurants. I suggest staying here to experience the vibrant atmosphere of Ghent city.
Top Attractions in Patershol:
- 🏰 Gravensteen Castle: Visit the medieval fortress and dive into its rich history.
- 🏛️ House of Alijn: Explore this museum to get a glimpse of daily life in the past.
- 🐟 Old Fish Market: Discover Ghent’s trading history at this historic market.
- 🍻 Trendy Bars: Enjoy a night out at one of the many trendy bars in the area.
- 🛍️ Boutique Shops: Wander through the picturesque streets filled with unique shops and cafes.
🚶 Walkable area: Patershol is a pedestrian-friendly neighborhood, making it easy to explore on foot. The narrow, cobblestone streets are perfect for a leisurely stroll. If you need to venture further, Ghent’s efficient tram and bus lines are readily available. For a different perspective, consider a guided walking tour to uncover hidden gems.
🍽️ Culinary delights: Patershol is a food lover’s paradise. For traditional Belgian fare, head to De Graslei where you can enjoy hearty dishes in a historic setting. If you’re in the mood for something modern, De Graslei offers contemporary Flemish cuisine in a stylish atmosphere. For a relaxed vibe, Het Waterhuis aan de Bierkant is the perfect spot to sip on local beers by the river. And for those who love a lively scene, Charlatan is a must-visit for its vibrant nightlife and extensive beer selection.
🏛️ Historic charm: Patershol is steeped in history and culture. The medieval architecture, narrow streets, and historic buildings transport you back in time. Take a moment to appreciate the unique blend of old and new, as trendy bars and restaurants sit alongside centuries-old structures.
Ghent Hotels in Patershol 🏩
⭐ Best hotels
- Snooz Ap Holiday & Business Flats These modern flats offer spacious accommodations with fully equipped kitchens, making them ideal for both business and leisure travelers. Guests can enjoy free WiFi, a comfortable living area, and easy access to local attractions.
- Margriet Apart-Suites Margriet Apart-Suites provides stylish, well-appointed suites with modern amenities, including a kitchenette and flat-screen TV. The property offers free WiFi and is praised for its cleanliness and friendly staff.
- Touristflat Dewulf This cozy apartment features a fully equipped kitchen, comfortable beds, and a private bathroom, making it a great choice for a home-like stay. Guests appreciate the friendly hosts, quiet location, and convenient access to the heart of the city.
3. Prinsenhof – Best Area to Stay in Ghent for Charming Atmosphere 🏠
🌟 Historic haven: Prinsenhof is the perfect area in Ghent for those seeking a charming and tranquil atmosphere. This picturesque area boasts a rich royal history and peaceful canals. I recommend staying here to experience the quieter side of Ghent city.
Top Attractions in Prinsenhof:
- 🏰 Prinsenhof Palace ruins: Explore the birthplace of Emperor Charles V and soak in its royal history.
- 🚪 Donkere Poort: Admire this well-preserved medieval gate, a remnant of the original palace complex.
- 🌳 Lievekaai: Take a serene stroll along this beautiful stretch of canal.
- 🏘️ 17th-century houses: Marvel at the beautifully preserved historic architecture lining the streets.
- ☕ Cozy cafes: Enjoy a relaxing coffee break at one of the many quaint local cafes.
🚶 Quiet exploration: Prinsenhof is best discovered on foot or by bike. Its narrow cobblestone streets and hidden corners invite leisurely exploration. The neighborhood’s calm atmosphere makes it ideal for cycling, offering a unique way to take in the sights. For those wanting to venture further, Ghent’s efficient public transport is easily accessible.
🍽️ Local flavors: Prinsenhof offers a delightful culinary scene. For a taste of homemade sweets, visit Julie’s House, known for its delectable cakes and pastries. Café Théo serves up traditional Flemish dishes in a cozy setting. For a historic drinking experience, head to ‘t Galgenhuisje, one of Ghent’s oldest pubs. If you’re in the mood for a trendy brunch, Alice is the perfect spot with its Instagram-worthy decor and delicious menu.
🏛️ Royal legacy: Prinsenhof’s history is deeply intertwined with Ghent’s royal past. Once a grand palace complex home to the Counts of Flanders, the area has transformed into a charming residential neighborhood. This evolution offers visitors a unique glimpse into Ghent’s rich heritage, with remnants of its royal past still visible among the quaint streets and canals.
Top Hotels in Prinsenhof? 🏩
⭐ Best hotels
- B&B Petit Prince Gent This charming luxury bed & breakfast offers cozy, elegantly decorated rooms with a home-away-from-home feeling. Guests can enjoy a healthy and varied breakfast, a shared garden, and a cozy fireplace.
- Comic Art Hotel This unique hotel blends modern luxury with the charm of Belgian comic art, offering stylish rooms in a renovated historical building. Guests can unwind at the cozy bar and enjoy a fresh breakfast buffet each morning.
- Gloria Loft Gent This spacious loft apartment features modern amenities, including a fully equipped kitchen and air conditioning. Guests can enjoy the convenience of nearby restaurants and easy access to local attractions.
🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels
- Baeten's Bed and Breakfast This cozy bed and breakfast offers comfortable rooms with a personal touch and a welcoming atmosphere. Guests can start their day with a delicious breakfast and explore the nearby historic sites.
- Erasmus Hotel This historic hotel is set in a 16th-century building and offers charming rooms with antique furnishings. Guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast and the hotel’s beautiful garden.
🛏️ Best Cheap Hotels
- De Draecke Hostel This budget-friendly hostel in Ghent offers clean, simple accommodations with shared facilities and a friendly atmosphere. It’s a great option for travelers looking to explore Ghent on a budget.
- The Mansion This boutique hotel features elegantly decorated rooms with modern amenities and a luxurious feel. Guests can enjoy the on-site bar and the hotel’s convenient location for exploring Ghent.
- Hostel Uppelink This hostel located in Ghent offers dormitory and private rooms with stunning views of the city. Guests can take advantage of the communal kitchen, free WiFi, and organized activities like walking tours.
4. Sint-Pietersnieuwstraat – Best Area in Ghent for Convenience 🚂
🌟 Transport hub: Sint-Pietersnieuwstraat is the perfect area for travelers seeking easy access to transportation. Located near Ghent’s main train station, Gent-Sint-Pieters, this neighborhood offers unparalleled convenience for day trips and exploring Belgium. I recommend staying here if you plan to visit other cities or need quick access to trains.
Top Attractions in Sint-Pietersnieuwstraat:
- 🚉 Gent-Sint-Pieters Station: The city’s main railway hub, perfect for day trips to Brussels, Bruges, and beyond.
- 🏛️ STAM (Ghent City Museum): Explore Ghent’s rich history through interactive exhibits.
- 🎨 Museum of Fine Arts (MSK): Admire an impressive collection of paintings from the Middle Ages to the 20th century.
- 🌳 Citadel Park: Enjoy a peaceful stroll in this expansive green space, home to several museums.
- 🏫 Ghent University buildings: Marvel at the impressive architecture of the university campus.
🚶 Easy exploration: While not in the historic heart of Ghent, Sint-Pietersnieuwstraat offers excellent public transport connections. Trams and buses can quickly take you to the city center. For those who enjoy walking, it’s about a 20-minute stroll to the main attractions. Renting a bike is also a great option to explore like a local.
🍽️ Student vibe: The area has a lively atmosphere thanks to its proximity to Ghent University. You’ll find plenty of affordable cafes, bars, and restaurants catering to students and budget-conscious travelers. Try De Vooruit, a cultural center with a great cafe, or grab a quick bite at one of the many food spots along Sint-Pietersnieuwstraat.
Where to stay in Sint-Pietersnieuwstraat ? 🏩
⭐ Best hotels
- One Two Four - Hotel & Spa This boutique hotel offers a luxurious experience with only 14 rooms, ensuring personalized service and comfort. Guests can relax in the on-site spa, which includes a Finnish sauna, hammam, and heated lounge chairs.
- The Hide The Hide offers spacious, fully equipped luxury studios and apartments with contemporary design and modern amenities. Guests can enjoy private terraces, a garden, and easy access to local restaurants and shops.
- Ibis Gent Centrum St. Baafs Kathedraal This 3-star hotel in Ghent provides comfortable, air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi and a 24-hour front desk. Its central location makes it ideal for exploring Ghent’s main attractions, including St. Bavo’s Cathedral.
🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels
- The Librarian This boutique hotel features stylish, book-themed rooms with modern amenities and a cozy atmosphere. Guests can enjoy a unique stay with easy access to nearby cafes and shops.
- Smartflats Design - River View These modern apartments offer stunning river views, fully equipped kitchens, and spacious living areas. Guests can enjoy free WiFi and convenient access to Ghent’s attractions and public transport.
🛏️ Best Budget Hotels
- Foley's Foley’s offers comfortable accommodations with a cozy atmosphere, featuring well-appointed rooms and modern amenities. Guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant and bar, as well as easy access to attractions in Ghent.
- Quartier Leonard This bed and breakfast offers themed rooms inspired by famous artists, providing a unique and artistic stay. Guests can enjoy a garden view, a fully equipped kitchen, and private parking on-site.
5. Hoogstraat – Best Area to Stay in Ghent for Foodies 🍴
🌟 Culinary hotspot: Hoogstraat is a food lover’s paradise in Ghent. This vibrant street is lined with an impressive array of restaurants, cafes, and bars, offering everything from traditional Belgian cuisine to innovative international fare. I recommend staying here if you want to be at the epicenter of Ghent’s culinary scene.
Top Attractions in Hoogstraat:
- 🍽️ Oak: A Michelin-starred restaurant offering exquisite tasting menus in a warm, approachable atmosphere.
- ☕ Julie’s House: Indulge in homemade cakes and pastries at this charming tea room.
- 🍺 ‘t Galgenhuisje: Experience one of Ghent’s oldest pubs with an authentic Belgian beer selection.
- 🍳 Alice: Enjoy a trendy brunch spot with Instagram-worthy decor and delicious menu options.
- 🍖 Olivier Le Petit Bistro: Savor French-inspired cuisine in a 17th-century mansion with a beautiful garden.
🚶 Foodie exploration: Hoogstraat is perfect for a culinary walking tour. Stroll along the street and discover hidden gems, from cozy bistros to upscale dining establishments. The area is also within walking distance of other popular Ghent neighborhoods, making it easy to explore more of the city’s food scene.
🍽️ Diverse dining: Hoogstraat offers a diverse range of dining experiences. For fine dining, book a table at Oak for an unforgettable Michelin-starred meal. If you’re in the mood for something more casual, try Olivier Le Petit Bistro for French-inspired dishes in a charming setting. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample traditional Belgian beers at ‘t Galgenhuisje, one of the city’s oldest pubs.
🏛️ Historic charm: While indulging in Hoogstraat’s culinary delights, you’ll also be surrounded by Ghent’s rich history. The street is home to beautiful historic buildings, including the 17th-century mansion that houses Olivier Le Petit Bistro. This blend of gastronomic excellence and historical ambiance creates a unique dining experience that’s quintessentially Ghent.
Where to stay in Hoogstraat? 🏩
⭐ Best hotels
- Hotel de Flandre This charming hotel is set in an authentic 18th-century mansion, offering elegantly decorated rooms with modern amenities. Guests can enjoy a daily breakfast buffet and a cozy lounge area.
- Monasterium PoortAckere This unique hotel is housed in a former monastery, blending historical charm with modern comforts. Guests can relax in the tranquil garden and enjoy the serene atmosphere of this historic building.
- Fred & Breakfast This bed and breakfast offers colorful, individually decorated rooms with modern amenities and free WiFi. Guests can start their day with a delicious breakfast and explore the nearby historic sites.
🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels
- 1898 The Post This luxurious boutique hotel is set in a former post office, featuring elegantly decorated rooms with unique historical details. Guests can enjoy a homemade breakfast, an in-house cocktail bar, and excellent service.
- De Draecke Hostel This budget-friendly hostel offers clean, simple accommodations with shared facilities and a friendly atmosphere. It’s a great option for travelers looking to explore Ghent on a budget.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Foley's Foley’s offers comfortable accommodations with a cozy atmosphere, featuring well-appointed rooms and modern amenities. Guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant and bar, as well as easy access to local attractions.
- The House of Edward This stylish guesthouse offers beautifully decorated rooms with modern amenities and a welcoming atmosphere. Guests can enjoy the convenient location and personalized service.
FAQs About Trips to Ghent ❔
What part of Ghent should I stay in?
The historic city center is the best area to stay in Ghent for sightseeing and experiencing the city’s medieval charm. Patershol is another great option, known for its historic atmosphere, trendy bars, and excellent restaurants.
Is it better to stay in Bruges or Ghent?
Ghent offers a more authentic and less touristy experience with a vibrant atmosphere and rich cultural scene. Bruges is more picturesque and romantic, but can be crowded with tourists, so the choice depends on your preferences for atmosphere and activities.
What is Ghent famous for?
Ghent is famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture, including St. Bavo’s Cathedral with the famous Ghent Altarpiece. It’s also known for its vibrant cultural scene, excellent food, and being a university city with a youthful atmosphere.
How many days do you need in Bruges and Ghent?
You can see the main sights of Bruges in 1-2 days, while Ghent deserves at least 2-3 days to fully explore. A combined trip to both cities could be comfortably done in 4-5 days, allowing time to experience the unique character of each place.
Is it expensive to live in Ghent Belgium?
While not the cheapest city in Belgium, Ghent is generally considered more affordable than Brussels or Antwerp. The cost of living in Ghent is moderate by Western European standards, with reasonable prices for accommodation, food, and entertainment compared to other major Belgian cities.
