From the medieval buildings, DELICIOUS chocolate and vibrant music – Ghent is a unique town in Belgium that should be firmly on your bucket list.
This small Belgium town combines the old with the new with flawless ease. It has a warm, welcoming vibe to it that draws people in. It’s filled with incredible medieval buildings, offers some of the best food you’ll ever taste, and it also has vibrant music and art scenes.
Ghent is a cool place in Belgium to visit if you’re up for getting away from the crowds and experiencing a more local town. There are loads of little nooks that you can find in Ghent that will give you a unique, local experience.
The one problem with visiting this city is that not many tourists go there. So, you may have a little trouble finding where to stay in Ghent when you arrive.
But don’t you worry about a thing! I’ve compiled the best areas and places to stay in Ghent to make your planning a hell of a lot easier. From budget apartments to luxury hotels, I’ve got you covered.
Let’s jump in and find out where is best for you!
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Ghent.
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Charming Old Center Apartment | Best Airbnb in Ghent
When you stay in Ghent, you want the perfect mix of history and modern life, and that’s exactly what you’ll get with this apartment. It’s a great choice when you’re deciding where to stay in Ghent for nightlife or for easy access to the city’s best eats!
The 18th-century apartment is suitable for 2 people and has been newly renovated so it contains everything you’ll need for a comfortable stay.
Ecohostel Andromeda | Best Hostel in Ghent
This hostel in Ghent is ideal if you’re on a budget but still want to be close to everything. It’s set up to allow you to socialize with your fellow travelers with a lovely outdoor terrace and BBQ so you can make lots of new friends.
The hostel is located within walking distance of the city center and offers private and dorm rooms.
Novotel Gent Centrum | Best Hotel in Ghent
This hotel in Ghent is perfectly positioned so that you can explore the city and return to a comfortable home base. It’s right in the city center and offers a sauna, outdoor pool, and a rooftop terrace where you can end a long day having a quiet drink or talking with fellow travelers.
The rooms are spacious and comfortable and offers private bathrooms with all the amenities.
Patershol
Patershol is the best area in Ghent to stay in if you want to experience the city’s historic heart. This is where you’ll find most of the city’s best attractions as well as pedestrian lanes that are filled with quirky shops and cafes.
Sint-Pietersnieuwstraat
If you want to get out of the city center but still be close then this is the best neighborhood to stay in Ghent. It’s based around the street of the same name which has become one of the city’s central veins.
Prinsenhof
Prinsenhof is technically in the city’s center but is a mostly ignored area. This is a shame because it’s also the best neighborhood in Ghent to stay in if you enjoy a charming atmosphere with lots of history.
Sint-Amandsberg
When you’re deciding where to stay in Ghent with kids, then you need somewhere accessible to the city center but a little quieter. And that’s exactly what you’ll get when you stay in suburban Sint-Amandsberg.
A big part of Ghent’s charm is its distinctive neighborhoods. You can walk from one to another and feel as if you’ve walked into a completely different city.
They range from medieval streets to hip streets that are lined with bars, and each of them has their own charm and attractions.
When you’re looking for Ghent accommodation, Patershol is the best place to start. This is where you’ll find the widest range of accommodation options as well as the best places to eat and spend time as a tourist.
But if you’re trying to decide where to stay in Ghent on a budget, then try Ledeberg. This is the city’s student area and it has a bright, vibrant vibe as well as cheaper accommodation and restaurants.
If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Ghent for nightlife, then try Sint-Pietersnieuwstraat. This area has been booming with life lately and is home to lots of bars and budget accommodation options.
It’s also close enough to the city center that you can get in there any time you want.
Prinsenhof is one of Ghent’s best-kept secrets. It’s just as charming as the city center but rarely sees any tourists. So, you get the best of both worlds with medieval surroundings in relative peace and quiet.
And if you’re trying to decide where to stay in Ghent for families, then check out Sint-Amandsberg. This is a quiet suburban area that’s still within easy reach of the city center so you can explore and have a peaceful home base at the same time.
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5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Ghent
Whether you’re trying to decide where to stay in Ghent for one night or for a longer trip, these are the areas you should be checking out.
#1 Patershol – Where to Stay in Ghent First Time
Patershol is the best area in Ghent to stay in if you want to experience the city’s historic heart. This is where you’ll find most of the city’s best attractions as well as pedestrian lanes that are filled with quirky shops and cafes.
Most of the city’s best budget accommodation options are also in this part of the city, as well as some more expensive options.
Eating is one of the best things to do when you’re staying in this part of the city. There are small restaurants nearly hidden everywhere throughout the cobbled alleys, and many of them serve treats that will tantalize your tastebuds.
Patershol is also popular during festivals, during which locals and tourists alike fill the streets to drink and celebrate. So, if you can, then make sure you time your trip for one of these celebrations.
Place 2 Stay | Best Hotel in Patershol
This is one of the coolest places to stay in Ghent. It’s within a short walk of Ghent’s most popular tourist areas and offers free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel.
The apartments include a kitchenette and come in a range of sizes to suit every size travel group. And just to make it even more convenient, there are cafes, restaurants and shops on the doorstep in every direction. If you’re interested in going further afield, have a look at the best hostels in Brussels, just a 45-minute drive from Ghent!
Cozy Studio Next to the Water | Best Airbnb in Patershol
This apartment is in the best area in Ghent to stay in for easy access to everything. It’s located right in the city center and you’ll enjoy having the entire space to yourself during your trip.
There are lots of restaurants and bars close by and the space is suitable for up to 2 people.
The Cover Hostel | Best Hostel in Patershol
This hostel in Ghent is located right in the heart of the ancient center. It’s brand new and located close to all the top buildings, markets, and shopping areas in the city. There’s a great attached bar as well as lots of common areas where you can sit and trade stories with your fellow travelers.
Things to See and Do in Patershop:
- Explore the medieval castle at Gravensteen.
- Head down to the docks at Graslei and Korenlei.
- Wander the pedestrian lanes and look for treasure.
- Do some people watching from the comfort of a local café.
- Explore the 10th century Saint Bavo’s Cathedral.
- Make sure you eat at as many of the quirky, half-hidden restaurants dotted throughout the area as you can.
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View on Osprey View on REI#2 Ledeberg – Where to Stay in Ghent on a Budget
Ledeberg is one of the best places in Ghent to stay if you’re looking for budget accommodation and food. This is to the south of the center of the city, near one of Ghent’s universities, and it’s set up for students who don’t have a lot of spare cash.
So, you’ll find lots of cheap places to eat, stay, and be entertained in this area.
Ledeberg is about 30 minutes’ walk from the center of the city, so you could easily make the walk if you want to work off some of the holiday food. But if you prefer to take the faster route, then there are regular trams that will get you there much faster.
Private Room in Townhouse | Best Airbnb in Ledeberg
Whether you’re trying to decide where to stay in Ghent for your first time or on a return trip, this is a good budget choice. It’s suitable for 3 guests and includes a large, airy room and a smaller attached room with another bed.
You’ll also have your own bathroom, so you can enjoy complete privacy when you stay in this townhouse or spend the time getting to know your hosts. The furnishings are all modern and sparkling clean and include a fridge, kettle and central heating.
B&B A la Bonne Heure | Best Hotel in Ledeberg
This is a great choice when you’re trying to decide where to stay in Ghent on a budget. It offers a swimming pool, free Wi-Fi, and two well-appointed rooms that include all the essential amenities.
There are eateries close by and the train station is within walking distance so you can explore the rest of the city.
Ghent’s Guesthouses | Best Hotel in Ledeberg
Whether you’re trying to decide where to stay in Ghent for one night or for a longer trip, this is a good choice. It’s within walking distance of the university and offers a lift, free Wi-Fi, and comfortable rooms with all the amenities.
Things to See and Do in Ledeberg:
- Explore Citadel Park, where you’ll find a huge green space as well as several popular museums.
- Head into the city for a day of sightseeing and people watching.
- Grab some friends and head out to explore the city’s local nightlife.
- Take advantage of the cheap local eats to stretch your budget even further.
#3 Sint-Pietersnieuwstraat – Best Area to Stay in Ghent for Nightlife
If you want to get out of the city center but still be close then this is the best neighborhood to stay in Ghent. It’s based around the street of the same name which has become one of the city’s central veins.
You’ll find lots of things to do and see in this part of the city, from funky restaurants to quirky bars and music venues.
It’s an easy walk from this area to the center of the city where you’ll find all the best historic sites. But what this area offers is much more modern attractions.
This is where you’ll find a concentration of the famous Ghent warmth and fun as you wander from concerts to dance classes, chocolate bars, and student pubs.
Ibis Gent Centrum Opera | Best Hotel in Sint-Pietersnieuwstraat
Located in one of Ghent’s best neighborhoods, this hotel is ideal if you want easy access everywhere. It offers free Wi-Fi, babysitting services, meeting rooms, and a business center as well as close proximity to Ghent’s entertainment area.
The rooms are cozy and modern and include private bathrooms with all the usual amenities.
Cozy Bohemian Flat | Best Airbnb in Sint-Pietersnieuwstraat
If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Ghent for your first time, this is a great quirky choice. The apartment has a deliberately homey feel that will welcome you to the city.
It’s well lit and well equipped for travelers with lots of plants to make the air sweet. The apartment is within easy walking distance of the center of the city and is suitable for up to 2 guests.
13 O’clock Hostel | Best Hostel in Sint-Pietersnieuwstraat
Located in one of the best areas to stay in Ghent, this hostel is brand new and offers clean, comfortable surroundings. The hostel offers rooms that include a private bathroom and kitchenette and comes in a range of sizes to suit every travel group.
Best of all, the hostel is surrounded by shops and restaurants to keep you happy and full of food throughout your stay.
Things to See and Do in Sint-Pietersnieuwstraat:
- Head into Mayana, the area’s famous chocolate bar.
- Grab your friends and explore the local student bars for cheap drinks and a great atmosphere.
- Spend some time explore and people-watching in St. Peter’s Square.
- Head to De Vooruit, once a socialist hall turned cultural temple where you’ll find everything from concerts to film screenings.
- Head up to have a drink or cup of coffee on one of Ghent’s famous floating terraces and watch the world go by.
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Grab an eSIM!#4 Prinsenhof – Coolest Place to Stay in Ghent
Prinsenhof is technically in the city’s center but is a mostly ignored area. This is a shame because it’s also the best neighborhood in Ghent to stay in if you enjoy a charming atmosphere with lots of history.
It radiates a kind of peaceful beauty, with cobbled lanes, empty stretches of canal, and 17th-century houses.
You’ll be able to explore in relative peace and quiet in this part of the city as there are few tourists who venture this far. It’s a residential area that’s within a few minutes’ walk of the main tourist center and has its own historic and modern attractions and sites.
If you’re looking for quiet accommodation options as well as convenience, this is the best neighborhood in Ghent to stay in.
Stylish Rooftop Apartment with Fireplace | Best Airbnb in Prinsenhof
Whether you’re trying to decide where to stay in Ghent for nightlife or for access to all of the city’s history, this is a great choice. It’s suitable for 2 guests and only a few minutes’ walk from the famous Gravensteen Castle.
The apartment has a fully furnished kitchen and bathroom and all the amenities you’ll need for a short or long stay.
Guesthouse PoortAckere | Best Hostel in Prinsenhof
If you’re looking for comfort, convenience, and a good price, this hostel is definitely for you. It’s close to the city center, in one of the best areas to stay in Ghent if you want convenience and peace and quiet at the same time.
Located in a centuries-old, neo-gothic building, this hostel is an oasis of calm. You can sleep in monastery cells to get the full experience and enjoy the common spaces with your fellow travelers.
Atlas B&B | Best Hotel in Prinsenhof
This is hands down one of the coolest places to stay in Ghent. The rooms are conveniently modern but have lots of historic touches that give them a real drama and atmosphere.
The hotel offers a swimming pool, free Wi-Fi, and babysitting services as well as an on-site bar where you can have a quiet drink after a long time. And the B&B is surrounded by restaurants and bars so you can have easy access to the city’s amazing food.
Things to See and Do in Prisenhof:
- Wander the deserted lanes and look for hidden gems.
- If you enjoy 17th-century architecture, you’ll find plenty of it in this part of the city.
- Head over to the medieval gate, which is all that remains of the court where Emperor Charles V was born in 1500.
- Relax in cafes amongst the locals.
- Head into the city center to experience the crush of tourists and return with a deeper appreciation of your quiet surroundings.
#5 Sint-Amandsberg – Best Neighborhood in Ghent for Families
When you’re deciding where to stay in Ghent with kids, then you need somewhere accessible to the city center but a little quieter. And that’s exactly what you’ll get when you stay in suburban Sint-Amandsberg.
This area carries the perfect mix of historic and modern homes, so you’ll enjoy the combination of atmosphere and convenience when you stay in this area.
Sint-Amandsberg doesn’t have as many big hotel chains. This is a local area where you can get to know the city’s people and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere.
But there are still some great guesthouses and B&Bs to stay in, just don’t expect to see any big chains or towering skyscrapers.
B&B Villa Emma | Best Hotel in Sint-Amandsberg
This hotel is a good choice when you’re deciding where to stay in Ghent for families or with friends. It offers a lovely garden where you can relax after a busy day of sightseeing as well as a swimming pool, terrace, and free parking.
There are two rooms available that contain all the equipment you’ll need for your visit.
Private, Modern Studio in Authentic Neighborhood | Best Airbnb in Sint-Amandsberg
This apartment offers the best of both worlds. It’s located in the best neighborhood to stay in Ghent for a quiet residential feel away from the noisy center while still being close enough to offer easy access.
The center is 5-10 minutes away by bus and the space includes a private bedroom, living room, and bathroom away from the owner’s part of the house.
B&B A Place To Be | Best Hotel in Sint-Amandsberg
This B&B offers the perfect combination of comfort and convenience. It’s located slow to the railway stay and has 2 rooms that have private bathrooms as well as in-room heating and cooling.
There’s a restaurant on site for quick and easy meals at the end of long days.
Things to See and Do in Sint-Amandsberg:
- Explore the elaborate tombs of the Campo Santo Cemetery and dream of the city’s sometimes dark past.
- Take day trips out of the city from the nearby train station.
- Get to know the local cafes and watering holes and make sure that you eat where the locals eat.
- Take a bus ride into the city center to explore the city’s biggest attractions.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Ghent
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Ghent and where to stay.
What To Pack For Ghent
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
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Sea To Summit Micro Towel
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Final Thoughts on the Best Places to Stay in Ghent
People who spend time in Ghent tend to fall in love with it. The city has a unique vibe that draws you in, like a warm hug, and doesn’t let you go.
And at the same time, it has a unique history and vibe to make it a fascinating place to visit. When you travel to this city, you’ll want to stay somewhere that matches its fascinating vibe.
And you’ll find it must easier if you use this Ghent neighborhood guide. So, get booking and experience a side of Belgium that few travelers ever see.
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Belgium.
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- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for Europe.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Europe backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
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