About Ghent

Considering Ghent's numerous charms, it doesn't attract a huge number of visitors. This curious fact is in your favour if you visit soon as surely everyone's going to catch onto this pretty, cosy, interesting city in no time?

The fact that Ghent is less popular than say Bruges means that you'll find some of the best places to stay in Ghent are actually great value, as well as being beautiful and luxurious.

Ghent's beautiful, canal side architecture is romantic by day and night. In the evening the restaurants and bars offer buzz, but also privacy - Ghent really feels like a proper, lived-in city, so the people you see out at night are the people who live here. The wealth of this port has made its public, and religious, buildings wonderful, and everywhere you turn there's something lovely to look at.

Not To Miss

Ghent's medieval centre has plenty if charming spots, including:

  • St Bavo's Cathedral, with fine stained glass, a collection of Van Eycks and a soaring 14th Century belfry.
  • Gravensteen, an impressive 12th Century castle - complete with a moat as well as armaments and torture instrument displays.
  • If you're into your museums then be sure to check out STAM Ghent City Museum, the Museum of Fine Arts Ghent or the Museum Dr. Guislain. These are all fascinating spots to spend an hour or two.

Ghent is small enough to get around easily, almost everything is within walking distance from the centre of town - the best places to stay in Ghent have easy access to public transport which is cheap and efficient.

Best places to stay in Ghent

For a city break

  • Only a five minute riverside walk from the town centre, the Hotel Onderbergen is a comfortable, well designed base. There are 12 rooms, some with nice period features, like murals and freestanding baths. And rooms start at less than £100 a night.
  • Just around the corner from Castle Gravensteen and St. Bavo Cathedral, Hotel Harmony is also right on the canal. Rooms are large and modern, with the top floor offering the most stunning outlook.

For romance

  • With only four gorgeous rooms in an 18th century mansion house, Hotel Verhaegen is romantic and intimate. It's run as a private mansion by two interior designers, so the restoration has been done with care. It's close to restaurants, shops and the buzziest riverside bars, but its courtyard is still quiet and peaceful.
  • Set in an elegant 18th century property, Pillows Grand Hotel Reylof combines original design features (think high ceilings and large windows) with contemporary interiors - all to great effect. There's also a luxurious spa in which to unwind after a day out sightseeing. A truly magnificent couples' city break.

On a budget

  • The Charme Hotel Hancelot offers very reasonably priced period charms from as little as £81 per night. Built in the 18th century, this townhouse has retained a lot of its best features and has been decorated to compliment - though the bathrooms are modern, as is the small gym and sauna.
  • Quirkily converted from a 13th century monastery, Monasterium PoortAckere has a more varied range of rooms (and prices) than most hotels. The nun's quarters are surprisingly comfortable, but the best deals are to be found in the former Chaplain house. They also have special deals for children.

For an apartment

If you think you'd prefer the privacy of a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety on offer with our partner Booking.com.

Travel information

  • Ghent's nicest weather wise in the summer, with the average temperature rising to 18°C in July and August. As this is peak season though expect it to be fairly busy and expensive.
  • Visiting in the spring or summer are cheaper and quieter alternatives, alternatively consider coming during the festive period when there's a wonderfully atmospheric Christmas Market.
  • International visitors can fly into Brussels Airport before heading on a half an hour train ride to Ghent.
  • There are a number of direct flights each day to Brussels from a variety of UK destinations.
  • For car hire prices, we recommend you visit our online partner Rentalcars.

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The best hotels in Ghent

Charme Hotel Hancelot

Ghent

Once the home of a wealthy Baron, this C18th townhouse has been beautifully restored to exhibit the original period decor. High ceilings, glistening chandeliers and ornate fire places. Breakfast is served in a light airy room with views to the quiet street below. Comfortable, spacious bedrooms.

  • City Style - A wonderful way to slip back to Ghent's glory days at this elegant townhouse, lovingly restored to maintain its aristocratic air
  • Less £ - With room prices starting from under €100 a night this is extremely good value
  • Romantic Break - With its beautifully styled rooms, this is perfect for a romantic tryst
  • Kayaking - For an interesting way to view the city try taking a kayak tour along the canals that criss cross the city.
from $95 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
B&B Kwaadham 52

Ghent

Five impeccably styled rooms situated above a piano store in the heart of Ghent. Spacious rooms feature parquet flooring, crisp white linen, large sash windows, and luxury bathrooms. Breakfasts are cooked on the aga and piano concerts are held in the courtyard. A stylish B&B.

  • City Style - Stylish rooms above a piano shop with hard wood floors, crisp linen and Aga cooked breakfast — seriously cool European style
  • Local exploring - A superb location overlooking the cathedral means that most of the city highlights are very close by
  • Short break - This little B&B is perfect for a short city break with its central location and great price tag
  • Sights nearby - Literally overlooking Ghent's famed Saint Bavo's Cathedral, the city's main place of worship for over 1,000 years.
from $99 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Hotel Onderbergen

Ghent

Modern boutique hotel set in a 19th century townhouse. Light rooms decorated in soft hues with splashes of colour coming from feature wallpaper and contemporary art. With an Irish bar and restaurant, just a short walk from the centre. Ideal for business stays.

  • Groups - Perfect for group trips, close to city centre with family rooms sleeping 6, without compromising on style or comfort.
  • Local exploring - A well located hotel, on the Leie River in the heart of the medieval town, but tucked away from the bustle.
  • Less £ - This is a great value option for anyone who appreciates chic design but can't afford a five star stay
  • Local markets - Just a 2 minute walk from the Veldstraat shopping area, a vibrant pedestrianised street worth checking out.
from $100 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Merveilleux

Ghent

A quaint guesthouse located in the heart of historic Ghent. The six traditionally dressed rooms are compact but perfectly formed with wooden floors, sash windows, marble bathrooms and coffee-making machines. Downstairs is an outdoor seating area and a superb bakery. A perfect city crashpad.

  • Less £ - With rooms offered at very reasonable rates this is a great central location for anyone on a tight budget
  • Local exploring - Perfectly located for exploring the historic city centre, just a short walk from St. Nicholas' Church.
  • Local markets - During the winter months nearby Ghent Christmas Market is a real must visit
  • Sights nearby - Within walking distance of Castle of Gerald the Devil, a must see 13th century fortress.
from $105 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Snooz Inn

Ghent

Hidden behind a historic facade, this chic little boutique B&B is anything but traditional. Glass-fronted rooms overlook a hidden courtyard. Interiors are minimalist and the best have enormous in-room showers. A bright breakfast room is complete with a full kitchen. A smart and intimate city base.

  • City Style - The historic exterior opens up onto an utterly contemporary space with plenty of glass and chic minimalist design, a hidden gem.
  • Local exploring - Well placed for a trip to Ghent; located a short stroll from the Portus Ganda and the city's historical centre
  • Local markets - A short walk from Korenmarkt, Ghent's buzzy square filled with pubs, restaurants, shops and historic buildings.
  • Great walks - Take a stroll along the nearby Graslei, a historic quay on the right bank of the Leie river.
from $105 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
B&B Petit Prince

Ghent

A boutique B&B perfectly located in the historic Prinsenhof area. Chic rooms have a distinctly Scandinavian feel with pastel hues, minimalist furniture, and natural details. The best have french doors leading onto the garden. Healthy breakfasts are served and the hosts are ever helpful.

  • Local exploring - Well located in the historic 'Prinsenhof' neighbourhood, surrounded by canals, historic sights, and eateries
  • Sights nearby - Within walking distance of the medieval castle of Gravensteen, a must see for any visitor
  • Boutique - A traditional house beautifully renovated in a hip Scandi-chic style
  • City Style - Elegant yet cosy rooms offer a seriously smart home-from-home vibe
from $120 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
B&B Great

Ghent

Stylish 3-room B&B situated in Ghent's historic centre. Owned by an interiors architect, the 18th century building has been lovingly converted into a chic, intimate and pared-back property full of character. The location is unbeatable; the city's culinary and cultural highlights are on the doorstep.

  • Close to nightlife - The property is located within the Prinsenhof district, the very centre of the city, with numerous lively bars and restaurants.
  • Local exploring - Stay here to be in the heart of the action; you are surrounded by Ghent's best shops, restaurants and cultural sites.
  • Sights nearby - The Gravensteen, a 12th centiury medieval castle known as 'The Castle of the Counts' is less than 100 metres away.
  • Short break - Ghent is a 45 minute drive from Brussels airport, making it an easily-accessible option for a weekend break.
from $137 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Door 10

Ghent

A 17th century house set in Béguinage of Ghent, right in the heart of the historic city. The three rooms are jam packed with character. Expect criss-crossing beams, potted plants, and wooden floors. A charming breakfast room feels like a country house kitchen. Homely yet chic - city perfection.

  • Local exploring - Well located in historic area of Béguinage of Ghent - explore the city by foot or on one of the bicycles provided.
  • Hideaway - An intimate and homely stay that feels more like a country home than a house in the heart of the city.
  • Full of character - You'll find plenty of period features including exposed beams, wooden floors and fireplaces
  • Sights nearby - Don't miss Het Gravensteen, a Medieval castle dating back to 1180.
from $137 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Ganda Rooms & Suites

Ghent

A chic little boutique right in the heart of the Old Town. The historic building has been beautifully renovated keeping the building's original features, such as exposed beams, but adding bright modern artwork and simple modern furniture. Breakfasts are indulgent and the sights are a stroll away.

  • Sights nearby - Right across from Sint-Jacobskerk, a monumental church featuring 12th-century Romanesque towers & a 13th-century Gothic spire.
  • Local exploring - Set in the Ghent's Old Town, this characterful townhouse is the perfect base for exploring the city on foot.
  • Families - Combining two of the suites on the upper floor is a great option for families or groups of friends
  • Boutique - A historic building renovated with chic contemporary style - offering the best of both worlds.
from $137 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Yalo

Ghent (Flemish Region)

A vibrant boutique hotel in the heart of Ghent, blending urban energy with a sleek, contemporary feel. There are striking design touches throughout, from the chic cocktail bar to a cosy rooftop with sweeping views. With top-tier dining, lively bars, and unique meeting spaces, it’s pure city style.

  • Museums - Dive into Ghent’s vibrant art scene, just a short walk from Yalo, where museums and galleries bring Belgium’s culture to life
  • Local exploring - Perfect for exploring Ghent by bike, with cosy rooms, a buzzing bar, and local flavours just steps from the city’s highlights
  • City Style - Experience Ghent’s vibrant heart from chic rooms with skyline views, a lively rooftop bar, and a top-notch foodie restaurant
  • Other Activities - Head to nearby Boudewijn Seapark for a fun family day, with thrilling rides, dolphin shows, and interactive marine exhibits
from $142 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Villa Emma

Ghent (Sint-Amandsberg)

A traditional property set in expansive gardens located in a residential area near the city centre. The 2 rooms have been beautifully renovated with the building's original features remaining but the furniture is simple and chic. One room has a mezzanine and sleeps up to 3. A tranquil city base.

  • Sights nearby - Make a trip to visit the impressive Château de Gérard le Diable, a spectacular example of 13th century gothic architecture.
  • Families - A family suite and a large garden for children to run around in, this is a great choice for those travelling with kids.
  • Groups - With just two rooms (sleeping up to 7) this is a perfect choice for small groups looking for a private space.
  • Cycling - Guests should use one of the hotel's bicycles to explore the city on two wheels without the carbon guilt!
from $142 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Maison Margo

Ghent

A chic boutique guesthouse set in the heart of historic Ghent. The three characterful rooms are all decorated in different pastel palettes. Bathrooms are modern with luxury products. Downstairs a sophisticated wine bar serves small bites while the city's attractions are just a stroll away.

  • Sights nearby - Take in some of the architectural sights of Ghent at nearby St. Nicholas' Church or the Castle of Gerald the Devil.
  • Groups - The quadruple room which has two single beds on a mezzanine, makes this a great choice for small groups
  • Short break - Perfect for a short break with all the major sights, plus bars and restaurants very close at hand
  • City Style - With a hip wine bar and chic contemporary design, this small urban guesthouse is a stylish choice
from $147 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
1898 The Post

Ghent

1898 The Post is a stellar hotel, right in the heart of Ghent. An intelligently converted gothic style post office, awash with heritage & charm. The chic rooms have an old world sophistication & almost film set style to them. The Cobbler cocktail bar oozes decadence & the breakfast is excellent.

  • Sights nearby - A wonderfully central hotel, within two minutes walk of St Michael's Church, St. Nicholas' Church and Great Butchers' Hall.
  • City Style - A historic and unique hotel where you can step back through the years to a time when leisure was a full time occupation.
  • Close to nightlife - If you can peel yourself away from Cobbler Bar, you are perfectly placed to check out the city's finest night spots.
  • Local markets - Visit the amazing nearby Bloemenmarkt, open on Sundays and a wonderful way to pass the morning.
from $190 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Design B&B Logid'enri

Ghent

A small design B&B set in the heart of historic Ghent. Spacious rooms are individually styled with a cool Scandi-chic feel. The best have in-room bathtubs set beside modern fireplaces while projectors to watch movies are a very nice touch. A smart choice for travellers or business visitors.

  • Local exploring - Positioned between the Art district and the historic quarter, making this a great base for exploring the city on foot.
  • City Style - A beautifully renovated B&B offering on-point Scandi-chic design, insider tips, and a fantastic breakfast.
  • Sights nearby - Stroll down to the magnificent Saint Bavo's Cathedral to check out the famed Adoration of the Mystic Lamb art piece.
  • Romantic - In-room bathtubs (large enough for two) set beside contemporary fireplaces
from $161 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Hotel Harmony

Ghent

A modern and stylish hotel housed in a beautifully restored 19th century town house, in a great central location. The pretty courtyard garden has a heated pool. The bar has a wide range of top end drinks and the breakfast is excellent. Top floor rooms offer great views over the ancient city.

  • Foodies - Housed in Ghent's Patershol district, which has become famed as its culinary centre- take your pick of fabulous eateries.
  • Swimming Pool - Enjoy a lazy afternoon beside the putdoor pool in the wonderfully peaceful central counrtyard, an oasis of calm
  • Sights nearby - Just around the corner from Gravensteen Castle and St. Bavo's Cathedral, both must see sights.
  • Views - Some rooms have views over the canal or the Gravensteen Castle
from $166 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Pillows Grand Hotel Reylof

Ghent

A luxury hotel occupying a quiet area minutes from the centre of Ghent. Beautifully designed interiors have that perfect mix of old and new. Rooms are palatial with high ceilings, sash windows, and minimalist style. A fine dining restaurant is curated by a Michelin starred chef. Very chic.

  • City Style - A grand Louis XIV-style property oozing sophistication — sweeping staircases, high ceilinged salons and chic modern interiors.
  • Foodies - Michelin-starred Dutch chef Ron Blaauw designed the in house menu, and the bar upstairs serves a mean cocktail.
  • Total relaxation - Bliss, whether you are reading poetry in your window side freestanding tub or heading down to the spa.
  • Spa - Spa Reylof is located in the property's former carriage house and provides a range of treatments plus sauna & wellness pool
from $174 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
B&B Achilles

Ghent

A contemporary little boutique B&B set in historic Ghent. Each of the six rooms have a Scandinavian influence to their design. Luxurious bathrooms are separated with frosted glass windows and boast large rain showers. Breakfasts are healthy yet indulgent. A smart urban choice.

  • City Style - A luxury B&B housed in a beautiful art nouveau house, offering modern urban style in the heart of the city.
  • Local exploring - A five minute walk to St Peter's Abbey from where you can catch the boat into the town centre
  • Boutique - The six guest rooms offers stylish contemporary design which sits seamlessly alongside original period features
  • Sights nearby - Just a few minutes walk from the Booktower, a modernistic masterpiece by Belgian architect Henry van de Velde.
from $184 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
B&B de Waterzooi

Ghent

A charming historic townhouse located in the medieval part of the city. With just three rooms this is an intimate choice. Pick the suite for two-storey accommodation complete with wonderfully uneven beams & a cosy sitting area. Breakfasts are an indulgent affair & the city views are breathtaking.

  • Local exploring - Perfectly located in the heart of the Mediaevel city overlooking the Gravensteen castle and within easy reach of sights.
  • Cycling - Use one of the hotel's bikes to explore the city on your own steam, a healthy and eco friendly way to explore.
  • Hotel boats for hire - Hop on the hotel's speed boat and explore the city from the canal, a unique and interesting way to explore.
  • Other Activities - Your friendly hosts will be happy to share all their tips for sights and shops in Ghent.
from $187 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Monasterium PoortAckere

Ghent

A characterful and good value hotel offers a range of rooms, in a Neo-Gothic monastery. Multiple beds in some rooms as well as a number of awe inducing venue halls set in the old church, make this an ideal choice for groups or families. Well positioned near the historic centre.

  • Local exploring - Located in a historic building in the heart of the medieval town, perfect for soaking up Ghent's rich history
  • Families - There is a great value dorm style option or family suites which can sleep up to six
  • Historic - The building was originally a neo-Gothic monastery built in the mid 19th century
  • City Style - Historic monastery on the outside, chic modern designer finish on the inside
from $188 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
The Hide

Ghent

A collection of seven seriously stylish studio apartments set in the trendy Arts Quarter, each equipped with a large kitchenette. The design is unique and modern, one room has a hanging bed and another a sunken bath. Complete with social areas where regular events are held. Urban perfection.

  • City Style - Urban chic design in the 7 studio apartments - offering everything the modern dweller may require in a stylish compact space.
  • Self catering - Each studio is equipped with a kitchenette, and the larger units are ideal for longer stays
  • Sights nearby - Well placed within easy reach of the Castle of Counts and the Justice Palace.
  • Restaurant - The Vault serves what they describe as "casual gastronomy"
from $217 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
B&B The Verhaegen

Ghent

Small interior-designed 18th century mansion-house B&B, with a distinctive mix of period features and modern design. The unique bedrooms feature crystal chandeliers, sumptuous fabrics, original art and indulgent bathrooms. Enjoy an excellent breakfast on the terrace or in the opulent dining room.

  • City Style - A stunning maison d'hôtes, with indulgent fabrics, crystal chandeliers, 250-year-old murals and marble fireplaces
  • Great walks - Take a wander down the canal to the Graslei, a busy medieval port filled woth restaurants and specialised old merchant shops.
  • Sights nearby - Ask your lovely hosts about the private guided tours of the Flemish architecture of the historic centre.
  • Local markets - Scour for classics in the second-hand book market of Ajuinlei, just five minutes walk from the B&B.
from $221 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Rooms with a View

Ghent

A characterful restaurant with rooms overlooking the canal in the centre of historic Ghent. The three charming rooms have a traditional feel with exposed beams, parquet flooring, and sash windows. Downstairs, there's a fine dining restaurant and bar. A classic choice, perfect for city exploring.

  • Views - All the rooms boast views over the Korenlei, the Graslei, the Leie, the Old Fishmarket, the Old Meat House & the towers of Ghent
  • Local exploring - Located on the canal right beside the Old Fish Market - the perfect position for exploring the historic centre by foot.
  • Romantic Break - Individually designed rooms, great views, restaurant downstairs and no children allowed!
  • Restaurant - Serving classic Belgian cuisine
from $231 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Maison d'Artiste

Ghent

A stately home, turned grand boutique, right in the heart of Ghent. The three large rooms keep their original features, with splashes of modernity — high ceilings, fireplaces and polished wood floors meet vibrant wallpaper and contemporary art. A luxury city crashpad with a fantastic breakfast.

  • City Style - A breath of fresh air — three spacious rooms with traditional elegance and exuberant modern flare.
  • Sights nearby - For a crash course in Ghent's architecture visit Ghent City Hall , Castle of Gerald the Devil and Gravensteen Castle.
  • Full of character - Opulent interiors evoke the grandeur of days gone by without compromising on modern luxuries
  • Great walks - Head down to Citadel Park and explore one of the most popular green spaces in Ghent.
from $316 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees