Gent is a compact Belgian city of canals, medieval towers and a large student population, which gives it a lively but manageable feel for a visitor on foot. Most of what you will want to see sits within a walkable core, with the river Leie and its tributaries threading through the middle.
For a visitor, the practical question is whether to base yourself in the historic centre, near the main transport hubs, or slightly outside the busiest streets. This guide covers the areas the sources identify as useful bases, then sets out what each level of accommodation looks like and which area works best for a first visit.
Best areas to stay in Gent
1. The historic centre around Sint-Michielsplein and the Design Museum
This is the most scenic part of the city, with the old centre, the river and the main towers within easy reach. It suits first-time visitors and anyone who wants to step out of their accommodation straight into the sights.
You find hostels and small guest-house style rooms here, including places on Sint-Michielsplein and Jan Breydelstraat. Expect some noise in the busiest spots, but everything is walkable and you are close to the river Leie.
2. Around the cathedral and the old city centre
The area around Limburgstraat, the Botermarkt and the Hoogpoort puts you right among the historic quarter and near the towers. It suits visitors who want to be in the middle of things and are happy to pay for the location.
This is where you find larger hotels and more comfortable rooms, some with views over the old centre and the river. It is central and convenient, though the most popular streets can be busy and parking should be booked ahead at peak times.
3. Near Gent Dampoort station
Dampoort is the practical choice if you are arriving by train and want a straightforward base without staying in the thick of the old centre. It suits budget travellers and those passing through.
You find budget hotels and guest-house rooms within a short walk of the station. It is a short walk from the centre for some addresses, so check the distance before booking if walking everywhere matters to you.
4. West of the city centre, around Blaarmeersen
This area sits a couple of miles west of the centre and is the option for campers and anyone travelling with a tent, motorhome or bike. It suits those who want space and a lower-cost stay rather than a central location.
You find a campsite here with pitches, a shop, a cafe and free Wi-Fi. It is outside the centre, so you will need to plan how you get in and out.
Where to stay on a budget, mid-range or splurge
- Budget: hostels, a hostel-on-a-boat, guest-house rooms with shared bathrooms, and budget hotels, often near Dampoort or slightly outside the busiest streets.
- Mid-range: standard chain-style hotels in the centre, with private rooms and predictable comforts.
- Splurge: larger historic and luxury hotels in the old centre, some with river views, spas, pools or fine dining, and higher prices to match.
Best area for a first visit
For a first visit, base yourself in the historic centre around Sint-Michielsplein and the Design Museum. It puts you in the most scenic part of the city and within walking distance of the main sights, the river and the old centre. You will find a range of places to stay there, from budget to comfortable, which makes it easy to match the area to your budget.
Frequently asked questions
Which area is best if I am arriving by train?
The area near Gent Dampoort station is the most practical, with budget hotels and guest-house rooms within a short walk of the station.
Where can I stay if I am travelling with a tent or motorhome?
The campsite west of the city centre, around Blaarmeersen, takes tents, motorhomes and bikes and has a shop, a cafe and free Wi-Fi.
Is the historic centre walkable?
Yes. The old centre, the river and the main towers are close together, and several hostels and guest-house rooms sit right in the middle of the most scenic part of the city.
Where do I find the more comfortable hotels?
The historic quarter and the old city centre have the larger and more comfortable hotels, some with river views and higher prices.
Compare live prices for the area you choose with the booking tools on this page.