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Accommodation Guide

Accommodation Guide

Flanders, Belgium

Accommodation Types

Hostels

  • Budget-friendly options

    Typically dormitory-style rooms, private rooms sometimes available. Popular with backpackers and solo travelers seeking a social setting. Hostel Uppelink provides a central spot with river views.

  • Guesthouses & B&Bs

    Charming, often family-run establishments offering a more personal feel. Many situated in renovated historic buildings, a glimpse into traditional Flemish architecture. Breakfast included, a cozy, local experience.

  • Mid-range Hotels

    This category covers international hotel chains and independent boutique hotels. They offer standard amenities, comfort, balancing price and service. Designs range from modern to classic.

  • Luxury Hotels

    High-end establishments with premium services, elegant rooms, often in historic settings or with contemporary design. A refined experience with amenities like fine dining, spas, or concierge service. Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Reylof and 1898 The Post are examples.

Specialty Stays

  • Unique Local Accommodation Types

    Many guesthouses and B&Bs in Ghent reside in beautifully restored historic buildings, some centuries old. They often show unique architectural details and a truly immersive experience of the city’s past. Some even present themed rooms.

  • Vacation Rentals and Apartment Options

    Platforms like Airbnb and local agencies offer apartments, houses, or individual rooms for rent. These work well for families, groups, or longer stays, often including kitchen facilities, for more space and flexibility. Find vacation rentals on Vrbo.

  • Homestay and Community-based Tourism Opportunities
  • Camping and Outdoor Accommodation

    No direct camping sites exist within the immediate city center. Options available on the outskirts or in nearby natural areas, accessible by public transport or car. For those preferring an outdoor experience.

Neighborhood Guide

Ghent's neighborhoods each have a distinct character. Where you stay shapes your experience.

Proximity & Transport

Good connections
  • City Center: Minutes walk to landmarks.
  • Patershol: Steps from major attractions.
  • Sint-Pieters: Excellent transport hub.
  • Portus Ganda/Byloke: Easily reachable by tram.
Less convenient connections
  • Patershol: Limited public transport within.
  • Prinsenhof/Rabot: Slightly further from tourist core.
  • Sint-Pieters: Further from main tourist sights.
  • Portus Ganda/Byloke: A bit further from main historic center.

Safety

Very Safe
  • City Center
  • Patershol
  • Prinsenhof/Rabot
  • Portus Ganda/Byloke
  • Sint-Pieters
Potentially busyness/noise
  • Sint-Pieters: Can be busy.
  • City Center: Lively atmosphere.
  • No specific safety concerns for these areas.
  • All listed neighborhoods are generally safe.

Noise Levels

Lower Noise
  • Patershol: Quiet alleys.
  • Prinsenhof/Rabot: Peaceful.
  • Portus Ganda/Byloke: Quieter evenings.
  • Generally tranquil.
Higher Noise
  • City Center: Lively atmosphere, especially at night.
  • Sint-Pieters: Can be busy.
  • Patershol: Moderate during peak restaurant hours.
  • Portus Ganda/Byloke: Moderate near developing areas.

Neighborhood Spotlights

City Center:

Directly amidst Ghent's iconic landmarks. Walk to Gravensteen, Belfry, Graslei, and Korenlei. Bustling with activity, many restaurants, cafes, shops. Higher accommodation prices and a lively atmosphere. Good for first-time visitors seeking convenience.

Patershol:

Beautifully preserved medieval quarter. Narrow, cobbled streets, charm. Intimate, quiet feel, steps from major attractions like Gravensteen. Known for gourmet restaurants. Accommodation often in charming B&Bs or boutique guesthouses.

Booking Strategies

Advance booking secures your preferred accommodation at a good price.

Advance Booking Recommendations by Season

  • High Season (Summer, Gentse Feesten in July, Christmas markets in December): Book 3-6 months beforehand. Limited availability during these periods, prices often higher. For Gentse Feesten, book even earlier.
  • Shoulder Season (April-May, September-October): Book 1-3 months beforehand for selections and prices. More flexibility.
  • Low Season (November-March, excluding December): Book closer to your travel date (a few weeks beforehand). For popular properties, booking a month out remains advisable for your preferred choice.
  • Negotiation Customs for Walk-in Rates: Negotiating walk-in rates is not common for established hotels in Ghent. Small B&Bs might offer a slight discount for cash payments if vacancies exist, but this is not an expectation. Online booking in advance is usually more cost-effective.

Trusted Booking Platforms and Policies

  • International Platforms: Use sites like Booking.com, Expedia, and Agoda for a wide selection and user reviews.
  • Vacation Rentals: Airbnb and Vrbo are options for apartments or longer stays. TrustedHousesitters for unique exchanges.
  • Directly with Hotels: Always check the hotel's official website. Sometimes, they present better rates or specific perks (like free breakfast or upgrades) for direct bookings. Consider chains like IHG Hotels.
  • Ghent Tourist Office: The official Visit Ghent website (visit.gent/en/) often lists local B&Bs and guesthouses, a good resource for unique, local options. Hostelworld for budget stays.

Important Considerations

Deposit and Cancellation Policies
  • Policies vary by property. Check specific deposit requirements and cancellation terms before confirming.
  • Many platforms and hotels feature free cancellation up to a certain date, providing flexibility.
  • Pay attention to non-refundable rates, which are often cheaper but offer no flexibility.
Seasonal Price Fluctuations
  • Expect price increases during major events like Gentse Feesten (July) and around Christmas and New Year.
  • Weekends generally have higher prices than weekdays.

Pricing Insight

Budget Estimate:

Hostels: €25-€50 per night (dorm), €50-€80 (private).

Mid-Range Estimate:

Hotels/B&Bs: €80-€150 per night.

Luxury Estimate:

Luxury Hotels: €150+ per night.

Accommodation Recommendations

Here are some top picks for various traveler profiles.

Top Picks by Budget

Budget Options

Value stays without compromise on location or comfort.

  • Hostel Uppelink: Central, lively, river views. Popular for backpackers.
  • Backstay Hostel Ghent: Modern, near Dampoort station, comfortable dorms and private rooms.
Mid-range Options

A balance of comfort and service.

  • NH Gent Belfort: Reliable chain hotel, excellent location near the Belfry, comfortable rooms.
  • Hotel Gravensteen: Historic hotel across from the castle, traditional charm, unique setting.

Luxury Options

Upscale Stays

Premium services and elegant surroundings.

  • 1898 The Post: In a stunning former post office, elegant design, high ceilings, central.
  • Hotel Harmony: Beautiful boutique hotel along canals, heated outdoor pool (seasonal), stylish rooms.
Family-Friendly

More space and kitchen convenience.

  • Apartment rentals (via Airbnb/Vrbo) offer more space and kitchen facilities for families.
  • Some hotels provide family rooms or connecting rooms (e.g., Novotel Gent Centrum). Look for hotels with pools or kid-friendly amenities.

Solo Traveler Recommendations

  • Social Environments

    Hostels like Hostel Uppelink or Backstay Hostel provide social settings and meeting opportunities with other travelers.

  • Private Rooms

    Well-located smaller hotels or B&Bs offer comfort and security for those preferring private rooms.

  • Long-Stay Accommodations

    Serviced apartments or vacation rentals suit stays exceeding a week. They feature home-like amenities, including kitchens and laundry facilities, making extended visits comfortable.

Exceptional Cultural or Historical Significance

  • Hotel Gravensteen

    Its location directly opposite the castle makes it an unique historical stay.

  • 1898 The Post

    Staying in a meticulously restored historic post office building presents a blend of luxury and heritage.

  • Patershol B&Bs

    Many charming B&Bs in historic buildings within Patershol create an authentic atmosphere and a sense of stepping back in time.

Unique Accommodation Considerations

House Sitting

For a longer, immersive stay, consider house or pet sitting. This involves caring for a home and pets in exchange for free accommodation.

  • Check platforms like TrustedHousesitters for opportunities in or near Ghent.
  • A unique way to experience local life and save on lodging.
  • Requires commitment to pet care and home responsibilities.
Boat Accommodations

Some unique stays include houseboats or barges converted into guest accommodations on Ghent's canals.

  • Check specialized booking sites or direct listings for availability.
  • Offers a distinct perspective of the city's waterways.
  • Can be a tranquil and memorable experience.

Before You Book

Read Reviews

Always check recent guest reviews for insights into cleanliness, service, and location.

Location

Consider your travel style (walking, public transport) when choosing a neighborhood.

Accessibility

If needed, confirm accessibility features (elevators, ramps) directly with the property.