Book a hotel in Ghent

Planning a trip to Ghent? Finding the right place to stay is key to experiencing this captivating city like a local, from its historic heart to its trendy design district. To help you settle in, eDreams has rounded up everything you need to know about booking accommodation, ensuring you find the perfect spot for your adventure.

Wander through time in Ghent, where medieval architecture meets a lively modern pulse. This captivating city, often overlooked, offers a delightful escape with its intricate canals, cobbled streets, and towering belfries. You can explore the imposing Gravensteen Castle, a moated fortress right in the city centre, or marvel at the intricate details of the Ghent Altarpiece by the Van Eyck brothers, housed within Saint Bavo’s Cathedral. The three medieval towers – Saint Bavo's, Saint Nicholas's Church, and the Belfry – define the skyline and offer incredible views.

Ghent is famous for its student-driven energy, rich history, and delicious local specialities like _waterzooi_ and Ghent noses (cuberdons). Stroll along the Graslei and Korenlei quays, admire the guild houses, or take a boat trip for a different perspective. Finding suitable accommodation in Ghent, whether you’re looking for a comfortable stay or a luxurious retreat, is easy, with options ranging from boutique hotels to guesthouses. Plan your visit to discover the charm of this Belgian gem.

When booking a hotel in Ghent, many visitors prefer to stay in the Historic Centre. This area offers the most direct access to many attractions, making it a convenient base for exploring on foot.

The Historic Centre is where you will find the city’s mediaeval heart, with many buildings reflecting its rich past. Accommodation here often includes boutique hotels in historic buildings and guesthouses. Key landmarks such as the Ghent Belfry, St Bavo’s Cathedral, and the Gravensteen Castle are all within easy reach. The Korenmarkt and Graslei are also popular spots in this area, known for their picturesque views along the canal.

Just south of the historic core is the Citadelpark area, offering a greener, more relaxed atmosphere. Here, you will find larger hotels, often with modern amenities, suitable for both business and leisure travellers. The area is home to the SMAK (Museum of Contemporary Art) and the Museum of Fine Arts, both located within or adjacent to the park. It also provides good access to the Ghent-Sint-Pieters railway station.

Further out, areas like Patershol offer a different charm. While very close to the Historic Centre, it retains a distinct character with its narrow cobbled streets and historic houses, often housing smaller, more intimate guesthouses or bed and breakfasts.

Ghent has a comprehensive tram and bus network, making it easy to travel between areas, especially if your hotel is not in the immediate centre. For arrivals, Ghent-Sint-Pieters railway station is the main hub, well-connected to public transport. The closest airports are Brussels Airport (BRU) and Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL), both offering direct train or bus connections to Ghent, which should be considered when selecting your hotel location for ease of transfer.

To find cheaper hotel deals in Ghent, consider visiting during the off-peak season, such as late autumn or winter, avoiding major festivals like the Ghent Festivities in July. Booking your accommodation well in advance can often secure better rates, especially for popular areas near the Gravensteen Castle or the Graslei. Look for hotels slightly outside the historic city centre; Ghent’s compact size means you are never far from the main attractions, and public transport is efficient.

Alternatively, consider staying in a guesthouse or a bed and breakfast, which often provide more budget-friendly options and a local feel. Many offer excellent value without compromising on comfort or convenience. For a unique Ghent experience, look for accommodation that might offer discounts for those visiting the Ghent Altarpiece at St Bavo's Cathedral during quieter hours.

Book your next hotel stay in Ghent with eDreams and enjoy great savings.