Top reasons to visit Ghent
- Historic Sites: Explore stunning landmarks like the Ghent Cathedral and the famous Ghent Altarpiece, rich in history and art.
- Enchanting City Center: Stroll through picturesque streets filled with charming piazzas and historic buildings.
- Vibrant Local Culture: Immerse yourself in local festivities, enjoy the lively nightlife, and savor delicious cuisine.
- Family-Friendly Activities: With a variety of attractions, Ghent is perfect for families looking for fun and learning experiences.
- Diverse Accommodation: Choose from modern hotels, cozy B&Bs, and family-friendly suites to suit your travel needs.
Find great hotels in Ghent
Discover the charm of Ghent with a variety of accommodation options tailored to every type of traveler. Whether you're seeking a modern hotel equipped for business needs, a cozy bed and breakfast, or family-friendly suites, Ghent has it all. Enjoy pet-friendly services while exploring the historic city and nearby Ghent University. Your perfect stay awaits in this vibrant Flemish city.
- Residence Inn by Marriott Ghent: Nestled in the heart of Ghent, Residence Inn by Marriott offers a cozy yet modern atmosphere perfect for families and business travelers alike. This 3.5-star hotel features family-friendly amenities such as free cribs and safety window guards, ensuring a comfortable stay for those with children. Pet lovers will appreciate the pet-friendly policy, which includes food and water bowls and a welcoming environment for service animals. With a focus on extended stays, the hotel provides well-equipped rooms that make you feel at home while enjoying the vibrant culture of Ghent.
- ibis budget Gent Centrum Dampoort: A great choice for eco-conscious travelers, ibis budget Gent Centrum Dampoort is a welcoming hotel that prioritizes sustainability while offering a comfortable stay. This property is eco-certified and LGBTQIA-friendly, making it perfect for those who value inclusivity and environmental awareness. The hotel's budget-friendly approach does not compromise on comfort, providing essential amenities for a pleasant visit to Ghent. With its central location, guests can easily explore the city's attractions while enjoying a green stay.
- Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Reylof Ghent: Experience luxury and relaxation at Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Reylof Ghent, a 4.5-star gem that combines elegance with a spa-themed atmosphere. This LGBTQIA-friendly hotel is renowned for its full-service spa, offering a range of treatments including massages, body scrubs, and facials, all designed to rejuvenate your spirit. The stunning architecture and serene ambiance make it an ideal retreat after a day of exploring Ghent. Guests rave about the attentive service and opulent surroundings, ensuring a memorable getaway.
Where to stay in Ghent
Ghent, a vibrant city in Belgium, offers an unforgettable travel experience for culture enthusiasts and families alike. Visitors can explore the enchanting city center, rich in history and romance, while enjoying the friendly atmosphere of the locals. Nearby neighborhoods provide opportunities for excursions and budget-friendly adventures, making Ghent the perfect city getaway. Whether you're wandering through its charming streets or indulging in local cuisine, Ghent promises a delightful blend of culture and exploration.
- Ghent City Centre: The heart of Ghent, this vibrant neighborhood is rich in culture and history. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through its picturesque streets, discovering local markets and historic landmarks like the iconic piazza square and various monuments. The City Centre is particularly lively from July to September, making it a popular time for families and culture enthusiasts to explore its array of entertainment facilities. With numerous cafes and restaurants, it's the perfect spot for a family outing or cultural immersion.
- Wondelgem: Nestled within the Ghent area, Wondelgem is a charming village that offers a cozy atmosphere. Known for its cultural experiences, visitors are drawn here throughout the year, especially in February, April, and September. The village features various venues, including an opera house and market, ideal for a family day out. Attractions like historic sites and conventions centers further enrich the experience, making Wondelgem a delightful escape from the busier city life.
- Sint-Amandsberg: This district is a hidden gem in Ghent, offering a blend of urban and outdoor experiences. Visitors flock to Sint-Amandsberg for its family-friendly activities, with playgrounds and sports facilities readily available. The area's peak travel months—February, June, and September—highlight its appeal to both culture seekers and city explorers. Close to historic places and a convention center, Sint-Amandsberg is an excellent base for discovering the vibrant life of Ghent while enjoying its local charm.
Things to do in and around Ghent
Ghent is a vibrant city perfect for culture enthusiasts and families alike, offering a mix of entertainment, education, and bustling markets. Visitors can enjoy local festivities, explore a variety of restaurants, and experience the lively nightlife. With its rich history and charming atmosphere, Ghent promises a memorable stay for all travelers seeking a city-themed vacation.
Shopping
In Ghent, you can shop at Langemunt Shopping Center and Ghent South Shopping Center, both offering a vibrant mix of shops and entertainment. If you're up for a drive, visit The Cottage, located 6.4km away, for unique gifts and souvenirs.
Recreation
At Ghelamco Arena, immerse yourself in the vibrant sports atmosphere while enjoying various recreational activities. Visit Pretland Gent, a family-friendly playground perfect for outdoor fun and bonding. For relaxation, the Van Eyck Swimming Pool offers a refreshing swim in a family-oriented setting, ideal for all ages.
Adventure
Experience the beauty of nature by cycling along the Brooks and Meanders Trail in Ghent, where outdoor vibes abound. For a more challenging ride, explore Rodeland Bicycle Trail 1, located 6.4km away, or venture 12.9km to Rodeland Bicycle Trail 2, both offering stunning landscapes and adventure.
Nightlife
The nightlife in Ghent is vibrant and filled with cultural experiences. Enjoy a captivating performance at Capitole Theatre, immerse yourself in the arts at Royal Dutch Theatre, or catch a show at Arca Theatre. Each venue offers a romantic and entertaining atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Ghent
To save money on your trip to Ghent, consider visiting from January to March when accommodation prices are lower. Take advantage of free attractions like Ghent Town Hall and Blaarmeersen Recreation Area. Use public transport options like trams and buses, or walk and bike to explore the city affordably. Book your hotel about a month in advance, ideally for a Monday stay, as Saturday is the most expensive. Look for package deals on Expedia that combine flights, hotels, and activities for the best rates.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Ghent are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to June and September, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel in Ghent about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Ghent is Monday. The most expensive day to stay in Ghent is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to tailor your preferences, such as budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Ghent with your flights and activities by booking a package through Expedia.
Find the best attractions in Ghent
Ghent is a fantastic destination for culture enthusiasts and families alike, offering a rich tapestry of historic sites and vibrant city life. Key attractions include the stunning Ghent Cathedral, the renowned Ghent Altarpiece, and the impressive Ghent Town Hall. Visitors can explore the charming piazzas and historic buildings, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a memorable cultural and family experience.
- Flanders Expo: Experience a vibrant hub of entertainment in Ghent, where family-friendly events and exhibitions bring the community together. Flanders Expo is perfect for those looking to enjoy lively activities and immerse themselves in local culture.
- Gravensteen Castle: Step back in time at Gravensteen Castle, a majestic fortress steeped in history and romance. Explore its impressive architecture and intriguing tales of medieval life, making it a perfect spot for history buffs and couples alike.
- Saint Bavo Cathedral: Marvel at the stunning architecture and rich artistry of Saint Bavo Cathedral. This magnificent structure is not only a place of worship but also a treasure trove of cultural heritage, featuring remarkable art and history.
Best time to go to Ghent
The best time to visit Ghent is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Ghent
Traveling to Ghent, Belgium, is convenient with several major airports nearby. BRUssels Airport (BRU) is approximately 56.3km away, with excellent hotel options like Le Louise Hotel Brussels - MGallery and Steigenberger Icon Wiltcher's, both 11.3km from the airport, offering accessible airport shuttle services. Charleroi Airport (CRL) is around 83.7km from Ghent, with Novotel Charleroi Centre and Van Der Valk Hotel Charleroi Airport as notable 4-star hotels, just 2 to 4.8km from the airport. LILle Airport (LIL) is about 44.8km away, featuring luxurious stays like L'Hermitage Gantois, only 6.4km from the airport, with shuttle services available for easy access.