Visit Ghent

Ghent

The City of King Charles of Spain

Ghent is a quintessential element to understand the history of Belgium. In medieval times, Ghent, together with Bruges, was the pivotal economical and cultural city in the County of Flanders. Belgians often speak of the Artevelde city. Johan van Artevelde was an important 15th century reactionary in Ghent and Flanders . His statue is situated on the big Friday Square in the historical heart of Ghent. About 100 years later, Charles V was born in the Prinsenhof district. Charles V was Holy Roman Emperor and the first King Charles of Spain. Today, Ghent is famous for its numerous events all year long. High point is the annual ‘Gentse Feesten’. A ten day festival outdoor and indoor in the whole city of Ghent, visited every year by 2 million people.

Ghent is not as known as Bruges, but in fact that is an advantage for the tourists. Ghent, unlike Bruges, is never overcrowded with tourists. Consequently, it is always possible to quietly saunter the uncountable cosy alleys and squares of Ghent. There are all sorts of hotels Ghent. In fact, it is a must to spend the night in Ghent, as a night out in the city’s dazzling entertainment centre is one you’ll never forget. It is advisable to book a hotel in Ghent in advance.

From Ghent to where ?

For example, Belgian’s capital city Brussels is just half an hour away from Ghent. Brussels is much more than the political centre of the European Union. Just like Ghent, it has a stunningly beautiful historical centre and quite a lot of museums, eg. the Comic Book Museum. It is certainly recommended to visit Brussels in more than one day. Stay at a hotel Brussels to taste the neverending and multicultural bustle of the city. If you are looking for some calm in the middle of the big city, you can stay at the Hotel St. Nicolas. Perfectly located in the centre of Brussels is the Centrale Hotel. Lastly, the brand new Hotel Marivaux offers a central location at reasonable prices.

Also 30 minutes away from Ghent, but in the other direction, is Bruges. Bruges is without a doubt the best-known city of Belgium. That is not a suprise. The beauty of the medieval centre is unseen in the whole world. Therefore, it is a unique experience to spend your night in one of the many hotels Brugge. For example, the recently renovated Hotel Aragon is a nice hotel situated in the heart of medieval Bruges.

Certainly worth visiting is Sint-Martens-Latem, a picturesque village just outside Ghent. In Sint-Martens-Latem, you can find the ultimate relaxation at the river Lys, surrounded by a wide area of green, suited for beautiful walks or cycling tours. You can spend your night in Auberge du Pêcheur, that looks out on the peaceful Lys.

Hotels in Ghent

Ghent River Hotel looks out over the Lys, which used to be the border of Ghent in the Middle Ages. River Hotel Gent can be reached by boat, which is quite a unique feature for a hotel in Ghent. The Ghent River Hotel offers fax, photocopy and WiFi at charge, laundry services and room service.

Hotel Gravensteen Gent is located nearby the massive Castle of Counts. If you are looking for a relaxed citytrip, Hotel Gravensteen will be an ideal acommodation. Visitors of Hotel Gravensteen are offered private parking space, WiFi, bar, sauna and fitness accomodations.

Hotel Chamade is a hotel that suits businessmen and leisure people. Being close to both St. Pieters railway station and the city’s historical heart, Hotel Chamade is a very practical accomodation for its visitors. All hotelrooms in Hotel Chamade are fully equipped with tv, telephone, minibar and bathroom.