Hand-picked selections based on real experiences and local expertise — Updated 2026

Backpacker’s Guide to Ghent — Hostels & Social Areas

Unlock Ghent's vibrant backpacker scene with local hostels and social spots.

The picturesque canal and skyline view in Ghent
At a Glance
Country Belgium
City Ghent
Day / Night 23° / 15°
Local Time 8:13
July — Now Peak season
Best Months Jun · May

Discover Ghent, a haven for backpackers with its affordable hostels and dynamic social areas. This guide provides insights on where to stay and mingle, ensuring you fully embrace Ghent's unique backpacker atmosphere.

Top Ghent Stays for Backpacker Hostels & Social Spots

Best overall
9.2
Ghent by the water

Ghent by the water

Set along the tranquil riverbank in the heart of Coupure, this welcoming hostel offers backpackers serene surroundings and easy access to Ghent’s vibrant city life.

Top pick
8
ibis budget Gent Centrum Dampoort

ibis budget Gent Centrum Dampoort

Catering to budget travelers, this ibis offers no-frills comfort with essential amenities, conveniently located for exploring the eclectic Muide neighborhood.

Top pick
8.5
Adagio Access Gent Centrum Dampoort

Adagio Access Gent Centrum Dampoort

Stay in style at this modern aparthotel, featuring spacious units and chic decor. Ideal for travelers with flexible plans, enjoy the freedom of self-catering options.

Find Your Ideal Ghent Backpacker Hostels

Use our guide to find your perfect hostel match.

Best choice: Coupure

Ideal for visitors who prefer a Socializing atmosphere.

Best choice: Dampoort

Ideal for visitors who prefer a Culinary advent atmosphere.

Best choice: Muide-Meulestede-Afrikalaan

Ideal for visitors who prefer a Arts and cultur atmosphere.

Best choice: Ledeberg

Ideal for visitors who prefer a Peaceful stays atmosphere.

Best Hotels in Ghent for Backpacker Hostels & Social Spots

Explore our curated list of Ghent's best backpacker-friendly hostels, each offering free-cancellation for flexible travel plans.

ibis budget Gent Centrum Dampoort
Top pick
8 Very Good
8972 reviews

ibis budget Gent Centrum Dampoort

Muide • Budget • Free WiFi

Catering to budget travelers, this ibis offers no-frills comfort with essential amenities, conveniently located for exploring the eclectic Muide neighborhood.

  • Economical rates
  • WiFi included
  • Accessible location
Adagio Access Gent Centrum Dampoort
Top pick
8.5 Excellent
2673 reviews

Adagio Access Gent Centrum Dampoort

Muide • Chic • Comfortable stay

Stay in style at this modern aparthotel, featuring spacious units and chic decor. Ideal for travelers with flexible plans, enjoy the freedom of self-catering options.

  • Stylish decor
  • Spacious living areas
  • Flexible booking options
ibis budget Gent Centrum Dampoort
Smart choice
8 Very Good
8972 reviews

ibis budget Gent Centrum Dampoort

Muide • Budget • Free WiFi

Catering to budget travelers, this ibis offers no-frills comfort with essential amenities, conveniently located for exploring the eclectic Muide neighborhood.

  • Economical rates
  • WiFi included
  • Accessible location
Adagio Access Gent Centrum Dampoort
Central location
8.5 Excellent
2673 reviews

Adagio Access Gent Centrum Dampoort

Muide • Chic • Comfortable stay

Stay in style at this modern aparthotel, featuring spacious units and chic decor. Ideal for travelers with flexible plans, enjoy the freedom of self-catering options.

  • Stylish decor
  • Spacious living areas
  • Flexible booking options
Boat & Breakfast Bellevue
Hidden gem
9.2 Outstanding
151 reviews

Boat & Breakfast Bellevue

Ledeberg • Unique • Waterstay

Experience Ghent from a unique perspective on this charming houseboat. Nestled in Ledeberg, it’s perfect for those looking to enjoy the city from a serene setting on the water.

  • Unique houseboat living
  • Quiet waterside location
  • Unforgettable experience
Cosy apartment in Ghent
Boutique stay
9.1 Outstanding
45 reviews

Cosy apartment in Ghent

Ledeberg • Homey • Quiet

Enjoy a homely atmosphere at this cozy apartment. Located in the charming area of Ledeberg, it offers a peaceful retreat after a day exploring the lively city.

  • Comfortable apartment
  • Peaceful retreat
  • Self-contained

Our Hostel Selection Process

We review local insights, traveler ratings, and budget-friendly options to find top hostels in Ghent.

Explore Ghent for Backpacker Hostels & Social Spots

Discover the best areas in Ghent for backpackers seeking hostels and vibrant social scenes.

Coupure

Imagine meandering along a scenic canal, surrounded by the vibrant hum of student life — welcome to Coupure. Nestled close to Ghent's universities, Coupure offers an alluring mix of affordability and social vibrancy that makes it a prime spot for backpackers. The canal-side streets are lined with charming hostel options, many of which provide cozy common areas perfect for making new friends. It's not uncommon to stumble upon impromptu parties or meetups organized by fellow travelers eager to explore what Ghent has to offer.

The atmosphere here is lively yet laid-back, offering the ideal environment for young adventurers who crave both connection and relaxation. With cafes and bars aplenty, the social scene is rich with opportunities to engage with locals and other travelers alike. The ever-present student population enhances the area's youthful energy, making it an irresistible destination for anyone looking to experience authentic local life. Whether you're planning a short stay or using it as a home base to explore the broader region, Coupure is a backpacker's haven with its mix of culture, accessibility, and vibrancy.

Best for Socializing
Walking route 7 stops · Solid walk
Few stops8+ stops
Price level Budget
BudgetLuxury
Crowds · Now (July) 91/100 · Peak season
QuietPeak
Hotels here 1
Avg guest rating ★ 9.2 · 31 reviews
Coupure Canal Built in 1751 The canal was constructed to connect with Bruges, aiding commerce.
Architect Vaerwyck's Influence Louis Cloquet Vaerwyck shaped modern Ghent with architectural designs.
Secret Garden on Coupure Hidden behind row houses, it's a serene spot for locals and visitors.
Coupure

Self-guided walking tour Coupure — Backpacker Hostels & Social Spots (Ghent, Belgium)

~1.3 km · ~17 min · 7 stops
≈1,700 steps ≈64 kcal 3 h 2 min w/ visits
Open in Google Maps
Castle of the Counts Gravensteen (Gent)
4.6★★★★★★★★★★(35.3k)
🏰 Castle
Medieval fortress with moats and ramparts
⏱ ~45 min
1
Korenlei
4.8★★★★★★★★★★(1.1k)
🗿 Monument
Scenic Korenlei riverside frontage and views
⏱ ~15 min
2
Saint Michael's Church Sint-Michielskerk
4.6★★★★★★★★★★(1.1k)
Church
Admire interior of Saint Michael's Church
🏛 1440 · ⏱ ~20 min · 🕐 Mo-Su 11:00-01:00 ·
3
St Michael's Bridge Sint-Michielsbrug
4.8★★★★★★★★★★(4.5k)
🌉 Bridge
St Michael's Bridge for classic city panoramas
⏱ ~15 min · 🕐 Mo-Su 11:00-01:00 ·
4
St Nicholas' Church | Gent Sint-Niklaaskerk (Gent)
4.6★★★★★★★★★★(2.9k)
Church
Stately church anchoring the old center
⏱ ~15 min
5
Belfry of Gent Mammelokker
4.6★★★★★★★★★★(8.5k)
🗼 Tower
Gothic bell tower and city panorama icon
⏱ ~25 min · 🕐 Mo-Tu,Fr-Su 10:30-18:00; We-Th off
6
St Bavo's Cathedral Sint-Baafskathedraal
4.7★★★★★★★★★★(14.1k)
Church
Impressive cathedral with rich interior treasures
⏱ ~30 min · 🕐 09:00-18:00
7

Dampoort

For backpackers with an adventurous palate, Dampoort is a treasure trove of multicultural experiences. This up-and-coming area is a melting pot of cultures, where budget-friendly hostels stand side by side with a plethora of international eateries. Whether you're craving authentic Turkish kebabs or Ethiopian injera, Dampoort delivers a culinary journey on a budget. Its lively streets are bustling with diverse faces and flavors, creating an atmosphere that is both welcoming and exhilarating.

Wander through Dampoort and you'll find a blend of old and new, with traditional Belgian architecture mingling with modern establishments. This contrast is mirrored in the area's hostel offerings, where historical buildings house modern amenities. As a lesser-known spot, Dampoort provides a more authentic glimpse into local life, away from the tourist-heavy areas. It's a gateway to both Ghent's hidden gems and its more urban offerings, making it a fantastic choice for backpackers eager to experience a dynamic, evolving landscape.

Best for Culinary advent
Walking route 7 stops · Solid walk
Few stops8+ stops
Price level Budget
BudgetLuxury
Crowds · Now (July) 91/100 · Peak season
QuietPeak
Hotels here 2
Avg guest rating ★ 8.3 · 11.6k reviews
Dampoort's Industrial Dawn Once a hub of industry, Dampoort thrived in the 19th century.
Former Rail Gate of Ghent Dampoort Station was the main arrival point before St. Pieters Station.
Weekly Local Market Buzz Every Sunday, lively markets offer local produce and crafts.
Dampoort

Self-guided walking tour Dampoort — Backpacker Hostels & Social Spots (Ghent, Belgium)

~2.7 km · ~37 min · 7 stops
≈3,600 steps ≈137 kcal 3 h 27 min w/ visits
Open in Google Maps
Dampoort Dampoortwijk
3.5★★★★★★★★★★(81)
🗿 Monument
Historical gateway, mark of Dampoort area
⏱ ~10 min ·
1
Saint Bavo's Abbey Museum voor Stenen Voorwerpen
4.5★★★★★★★★★★(378)
📍 Landmark
Saint Bavo's Abbey, romantic ruins and gardens
⏱ ~40 min
2
St Bavo's Cathedral Sint-Baafskathedraal
4.7★★★★★★★★★★(14.1k)
Church
Impressive cathedral with rich interior treasures
⏱ ~30 min · 🕐 09:00-18:00
3
Graffiti street | Gent Hof van Rijhove
4.2★★★★★★★★★★(3.7k)
🎡 Attraction
Colorful alley of street art and murals
⏱ ~15 min
4
Castle of the Counts Gravensteen (Gent)
4.6★★★★★★★★★★(35.3k)
🏰 Castle
Medieval fortress with moats and ramparts
⏱ ~45 min
5
View point promenade Korenlei
4.8★★★★★★★★★★(63)
🔭 Viewpoint
Panoramic views of the city from promenade
⏱ ~15 min
6
St Michael's Bridge Sint-Michielsbrug
4.8★★★★★★★★★★(4.5k)
🌉 Bridge
St Michael's Bridge for classic city panoramas
⏱ ~15 min · 🕐 Mo-Su 11:00-01:00 ·
7

Muide-Meulestede-Afrikalaan

A vibrant hub for the creative spirit, Muide-Meulestede-Afrikalaan offers an artistic escape unlike any other in Ghent. Known for its artistic vibe, this neighborhood attracts backpackers who are drawn to its innovative spaces and cultural dynamism. Local galleries and street art installations infuse the area with a bohemian charm, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in the arts.

The community's welcoming nature means that travelers can easily connect with both residents and fellow explorers. Unique hostels abound, often featuring quirky designs that mirror the neighborhood's avant-garde ethos. The area’s creative events frequently invite community participation, offering a chance to immerse oneself in the local art scene. Whether attending an open-air concert or joining a local workshop, there's never a dull moment here. For backpackers eager to engage with Ghent’s creative community, Muide-Meulestede-Afrikalaan is a distinct, unmissable destination.

Best for Arts and cultur
Walking route 6 stops · Solid walk
Few stops8+ stops
Price level Budget
BudgetLuxury
Crowds · Now (July) 91/100 · Peak season
QuietPeak
Hotels here 2
Avg guest rating ★ 8.3 · 11.6k reviews
Afrikalaan's Exotic Naming Named to evoke colonial connections in the Belgian Congo era.
Transformation from Shipyards Once thriving shipyards, now a vibrant residential zone.
Art Installations Dotting Streets Street art and installations create an urban gallery experience.
Muide-Meulestede-Afrikalaan

Self-guided walking tour Muide-Meulestede-Afrikalaan — Backpacker Hostels & Social Spots (Ghent, Belgium)

~1.9 km · ~25 min · 6 stops
≈2,500 steps ≈94 kcal 3 h 15 min w/ visits
Open in Google Maps
Saint Bavo's Abbey Museum voor Stenen Voorwerpen
4.5★★★★★★★★★★(378)
📍 Landmark
Saint Bavo's Abbey, romantic ruins and gardens
⏱ ~40 min
1
St Bavo's Cathedral Sint-Baafskathedraal
4.7★★★★★★★★★★(14.1k)
Church
Impressive cathedral with rich interior treasures
⏱ ~30 min · 🕐 09:00-18:00
2
Belfry of Gent Mammelokker
4.6★★★★★★★★★★(8.5k)
🗼 Tower
Gothic bell tower and city panorama icon
⏱ ~25 min · 🕐 Mo-Tu,Fr-Su 10:30-18:00; We-Th off
3
St Nicholas' Church | Gent Sint-Niklaaskerk (Gent)
4.6★★★★★★★★★★(2.9k)
Church
Stately church anchoring the old center
⏱ ~15 min
4
St Michael's Bridge Sint-Michielsbrug
4.8★★★★★★★★★★(4.5k)
🌉 Bridge
St Michael's Bridge for classic city panoramas
⏱ ~15 min · 🕐 Mo-Su 11:00-01:00 ·
5
Castle of the Counts Gravensteen (Gent)
4.6★★★★★★★★★★(35.3k)
🏰 Castle
Medieval fortress with moats and ramparts
⏱ ~45 min
6

Ledeberg

A tranquil residential enclave, Ledeberg provides a perfect escape from the bustling city center while still offering easy access to all of Ghent's highlights. Often overlooked by typical tourists, Ledeberg is celebrated for its peaceful ambiance and charming houses. It's an ideal base for those who prefer to unwind in a relaxed setting at the end of a day packed with exploration.

Accommodations here are both affordable and comfortable, catering to budget-conscious backpackers who don't want to sacrifice quality for cost. The community feel is strong, with local markets and friendly neighborhoods that encourage a genuine exchange between travelers and locals. Close connectivity to the heart of Ghent allows for easy excursions and day trips, while returning to this soothing haven. For those seeking a quiet night's rest after hitting the vibrant city, Ledeberg strikes a perfect balance of accessibility and tranquility.

Best for Peaceful stays
Walking route 8 stops · Packed itinerary
Few stops8+ stops
Price level Budget
BudgetLuxury
Crowds · Now (July) 91/100 · Peak season
QuietPeak
Hotels here 2
Avg guest rating ★ 9.1 · 196 reviews
Annexed by Ghent in 1870 Ledeberg was an independent municipality before joining Ghent.
Politician Van Cromphout's Legacy He was instrumental in Ledeberg's development during his tenure.
Bohemia Pleinpark's Hidden Gem A small yet charming park offering a peaceful retreat for residents.
Ledeberg

Self-guided walking tour Ledeberg — Backpacker Hostels & Social Spots (Ghent, Belgium)

~4.7 km · ~1 h 4 min · 8 stops
≈6,200 steps ≈237 kcal 5 h 24 min w/ visits
Open in Google Maps
Citadelpark
4.2★★★★★★★★★★(6.4k)
🌳 Park
Romantic strolls in Citadelpark's lush greenery
⏱ ~40 min
1
STAM - Ghent City Museum Gent
4.5★★★★★★★★★★(2k)
🏛️ Museum
Discover Ghent's history at STAM Museum
⏱ ~45 min
2
St Michael's Bridge Sint-Michielsbrug
4.8★★★★★★★★★★(4.5k)
🌉 Bridge
St Michael's Bridge for classic city panoramas
⏱ ~15 min · 🕐 Mo-Su 11:00-01:00 ·
3
Castle of the Counts Gravensteen (Gent)
4.6★★★★★★★★★★(35.3k)
🏰 Castle
Medieval fortress with moats and ramparts
⏱ ~45 min
4
Korenmarkt
4.7★★★★★★★★★★(524)
Square
Korenmarkt, central historic square and hub
⏱ ~20 min ·
5
Belfry of Gent Mammelokker
4.6★★★★★★★★★★(8.5k)
🗼 Tower
Gothic bell tower and city panorama icon
⏱ ~25 min · 🕐 Mo-Tu,Fr-Su 10:30-18:00; We-Th off
6
St Bavo's Cathedral Sint-Baafskathedraal
4.7★★★★★★★★★★(14.1k)
Church
Impressive cathedral with rich interior treasures
⏱ ~30 min · 🕐 09:00-18:00
7
Saint Bavo's Abbey Museum voor Stenen Voorwerpen
4.5★★★★★★★★★★(378)
📍 Landmark
Saint Bavo's Abbey, romantic ruins and gardens
⏱ ~40 min
8

Best time to visit Ghent (Belgium)

Now (July) avg: 19°C, mostly dry, full season — expect crowds. Best months to walk: Jun & May.

Live Temp
~Day / Night Temp 23°C / 15°C
Sunrise / Sunset 5:45 / 21:56
Local time 8:13
Best Months Jun & May
J Jan F Feb M Mar A Apr M May best month J Jun best month J Jul this month A Aug S Sep O Oct N Nov D Dec
Check Ghent hotels
Temperature Average night-low temperature, month by month. Zero line marks freezing point.
Crowds How busy it gets — traveller interest by month.
Rainfall Rainy days to expect each month.
Sunshine Hours of sun per day, by month.
Ghent guides →

Best Hotels in Ghent for Backpacker Hostels & Social Spots

Explore our curated list of Ghent's best backpacker-friendly hostels, each offering free-cancellation for flexible travel plans.
Ghent by the water
Best overall
9.2 Outstanding
31 reviews

Ghent by the water

Set along the tranquil riverbank in the heart of Coupure, this welcoming hostel offers backpackers serene surroundings and easy access to Ghent’s vibrant city life.

Ideal for: Travelers seeking tranquility
ibis budget Gent Centrum Dampoort
Top pick
8 Very Good
8972 reviews

ibis budget Gent Centrum Dampoort

Catering to budget travelers, this ibis offers no-frills comfort with essential amenities, conveniently located for exploring the eclectic Muide neighborhood.

Ideal for: Frugal explorers
Adagio Access Gent Centrum Dampoort
Top pick
8.5 Excellent
2673 reviews

Adagio Access Gent Centrum Dampoort

Stay in style at this modern aparthotel, featuring spacious units and chic decor. Ideal for travelers with flexible plans, enjoy the freedom of self-catering options.

Ideal for: Stylish travelers
ibis budget Gent Centrum Dampoort
Smart choice
8 Very Good
8972 reviews

ibis budget Gent Centrum Dampoort

Catering to budget travelers, this ibis offers no-frills comfort with essential amenities, conveniently located for exploring the eclectic Muide neighborhood.

Ideal for: Frugal explorers
Adagio Access Gent Centrum Dampoort
Central location
8.5 Excellent
2673 reviews

Adagio Access Gent Centrum Dampoort

Stay in style at this modern aparthotel, featuring spacious units and chic decor. Ideal for travelers with flexible plans, enjoy the freedom of self-catering options.

Ideal for: Stylish travelers
Boat & Breakfast Bellevue
Hidden gem
9.2 Outstanding
151 reviews

Boat & Breakfast Bellevue

Experience Ghent from a unique perspective on this charming houseboat. Nestled in Ledeberg, it’s perfect for those looking to enjoy the city from a serene setting on the water.

Ideal for: Uniquely minded backpackers
Cosy apartment in Ghent
Boutique stay
9.1 Outstanding
45 reviews

Cosy apartment in Ghent

Enjoy a homely atmosphere at this cozy apartment. Located in the charming area of Ledeberg, it offers a peaceful retreat after a day exploring the lively city.

Ideal for: Backpackers craving comfort

Book Your Ghent Hostel Now

Rooms fill up fast in Ghent—secure your spot today to enjoy your adventure!

Compare Ghent Hostels for Backpackers

See top hostels side by side to find your ideal stay.
ibis budget Gent Centrum Dampoort
Top pick
8 Very Good
8972 reviews

ibis budget Gent Centrum Dampoort

Muide • Budget • Free WiFi
Affordable access to Muide
Budget Friendly
Economical pricing
Public Transport
Close to transit
Soundproof Rooms
Quiet sleep guaranteed
Adagio Access Gent Centrum Dampoort
Top pick
8.5 Excellent
2673 reviews

Adagio Access Gent Centrum Dampoort

Muide • Chic • Comfortable stay
Chic base for urban explorers
Modern Design
Contemporary look
Kitchenette
Complete home setups
Reception 24h
24-hour service

Traditional Local Food Ghent (Belgium)

Local Flavours of Ghent — Explore recipes, history, our unique food flavour DNA graph and more.

🥦
Dessert Vegetarian

Appelbol

AH-pel-bol

A pastry-encased baked apple, often filled with sugar and raisins.

🥦
Starter Vegetarian

Flemish Asparagus

Asperges op Vlaamse Wijze
ahs-PAIR-jehz awp VLAHMS-uh VAY-zuh

White asparagus garnished with hard-boiled eggs and butter.

🥩
Snack Meat

Gentse Kop

Kopvlees
HENTS-uh KOP

A head cheese made from various parts of pork jelly.

Starter Meat

Gentse Kopvlees

GHENTS-keh KOP-vles

A savory meat jelly made from the head of a pig.

Gentse Stoverij
Main course Meat

Gentse Stoverij

GENT-suh STOH-vuh-ree

A Flemish beef stew slow-cooked in dark beer.

🌱
Condiment Vegan

Gentse Tierenteyn Mustard

Gentse Tierenteyn
tee-ren-TAIN

A spicy artisan mustard unique to Ghent.

🥦
Dessert Vegetarian

Ghent Mustard Stroopwafels

Gentse Mosterd Stroopwafels
GENT-suh MO-sturt STRAW-pvaah-fuhls

A crispy waffle biscuit with a unique mustard-infused syrup filling.

Main course Meat

Ghent Waterzooi

Gentse Waterzooi
GHENT-suh WA-ter-zoy

A creamy stew made with chicken or fish and vegetables.

🥦
Soup Vegetarian

Ghent mustard soup

Gentse Mosterdsoep
GENST moss-terd-soep

A creamy soup infused with the sharp flavor of mustard, typical of Ghent.

Main course Meat

Hutsepot

HOOT-se-pott

A traditional Flemish stew with mixed vegetables and meats.

Snack Vegetarian

Neuzekes

NU-zuh-kehs

Cone-shaped jelly candies with a raspberry flavor.

Main course Fish & Seafood

Paling in 't Groen

PAH-ling in T groon

Eel stewed in a vibrant green herb sauce.

🥩
Main course Meat

Rabbit with Prunes

Konijn met Pruimen
koh-NAYN met PROW-men

A slow-cooked rabbit stew with a sweet prune sauce.

🌱
Condiment Vegan

Tierenteyn Mustard

Tierenteynmosterd
TIER-en-tain MOHS-terd

A traditional, spicy mustard from Ghent, often used as a condiment.

Main course Fish & Seafood

Waterzooi

Gentse Waterzooi
Vah-ter-zoy

A creamy stew made with fish or chicken, vegetables, and eggs.

Activities & Experiences

Things to Do in Ghent

Top-rated tours, day trips and local experiences — book in advance to secure your spot.

City & Country Data Belgium (Ghent)

Key travel data for Ghent — cost of living, safety, healthcare, local currency and essentials, curated by Triplandio.

Cost 💰 MID
Safety 🔒 86
Health 🏥 94
Lifestyle 73
Infra 🏗️ 87
Rank 🎯 #13
Score 📊 67
Tourists ✈️ 2.6M/y
GDP/cap 💵 $60.8k
Life Exp ❤️ 82.3 yrs
Population 👥 11.9M
Currency 💱 EUR €
Language 🗣️ Dutch
Payments 💳 Cashless
Emergency 🆘 112
Coffee $3.86
Beer 🍺 $5.00
Lunch 🍽️ $20.00
Groceries 🛒 $327.05/w
Taxi/km 🚕 $2.00
Transit 🚇 $3.86
Fuel $1.10/l
Internet 📡 $50.00/m
Salary 💵 $2,000/m

Ghent stay tips for Backpacker Hostels & Social Spots

Budget-friendly tram rides

Save euros by purchasing a 10-ride Lijn card at local shops. Trams 1 and 4 take you to major attractions efficiently and cheaply.

Tip: Save with Lijn tram card

Meet travelers at Hostel 47

Situated in the historic city center, Hostel 47 is famous for its communal kitchen and welcoming common area, making it easy to meet fellow backpackers.

Tip: Communal vibe in city center

Relax at Zuidpark

Unwind at Zuidpark for a picnic or meet locals and travelers alike. The park is a short walk from the center and offers free Wi-Fi, a rarity in public spaces.

Tip: Free Wi-Fi and chill vibes

Sample street food at Korenmarkt

For budget eats, visit Korenmarkt where delicious Belgian fries and hearty waffles await. It's the go-to spot for affordable street food near major sights.

Tip: Street food haven near sights

Ghent for Backpacker Hostels & Social Spots: FAQ

When is the best time to visit Ghent?

The best time to visit Ghent is June and May — fewer crowds, comfortable temperatures, less rain and more sunshine. Compare every month in the seasonal chart above.

What are the top-rated social hostels in Ghent?

Boutique Hostel Upbeat and Hostel Uppelink are top choices known for their lively atmospheres. They host regular events perfect for meeting other backpackers.

How can I get around Ghent on a backpacker's budget?

Biking is ideal and cheap. Rent from local shops or use a shared bike service. The city's compact design makes this a cost-effective option.

Where's the best area to stay for socializing in Ghent?

Staying around the Overpoortstraat area offers an energetic vibe with numerous cafes, bars, and hostels that cater to social backpackers.

Which hostel in Ghent offers frequent social events?

Hostel Uppelink is renowned for its varied social events, including movie nights and pub crawls, offering plenty of chances to mingle with fellow travelers.

Are there budget-friendly food options for backpackers in Ghent?

Yes, areas like Dampoort offer numerous budget-friendly eateries and food stalls where you can enjoy local cuisine without breaking the bank.

Backpacker Hostels & Social Spots in Ghent

Best Backpacker Areas
Discover Ghent, a haven for backpackers with its affordable hostels and dynamic social areas. This guide provides insights on where to stay and mingle, ensuring you fully embrace Ghent's unique backpacker atmosphere.
  • Handpicked hostels
  • Social hotspots
  • Free cancellation
  • Updated 2026
EuropeBelgiumGhentBackpacker’s Guide to Ghent — Hostels & Social Areas
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