Kaag(Netherlands) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Ghent, the top boutique hotel with historic charm is Hotel van Cleef, housed in a former 19th-century bank building near St. Bavo's Cathedral. It preserves original marble columns and iron ceilings while blending modern luxury with Flemish aesthetics. Another standout is De Vrije School, a converted school where classrooms now serve as art-filled guest rooms, offering a unique cultural immersion. Both properties provide intimate, personalized service and are steps away from Gravenplein and the canal district, ideal for travelers seeking authenticity and architectural beauty.

The city center of Ghent, especially around Gravenplein and St. Bavo’s Cathedral, is the most convenient area for first-time visitors. It’s within walking distance of major attractions like Gravensteen Castle, the Old Market, and the canal district. The area buzzes with cafés, boutiques, and local eateries, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Many hotels here offer free bikes and shuttle services to the train station, making exploration easy. Staying here ensures you’re at the heart of Ghent’s medieval charm and daily life.

Tourists should not miss the Candlelight Festival in December, when thousands of candles illuminate the city, turning St. Bavo’s Cathedral square into a magical scene. Another must-try is visiting the Museum of Fine Arts Ghent (MSK), home to masterpieces by Rubens and other Flemish artists. For hands-on culture, join a traditional Flemish bread baking workshop—learn to make Rozemarijn cake using local recipes. These immersive experiences offer deep insight into Ghent’s artistic and culinary heritage.

Hotels in Ghent are strategically located for easy access: most city-center hotels are within a 5-minute walk of St. Bavo’s Cathedral and a 10-minute walk to Gravensteen Castle. Electric trams and bike-sharing services make it simple to reach the canal district or Botanical Garden in under 15 minutes. Top hotels like Hotel van Cleef offer complimentary bicycles and shuttle services to Ghent-Sint-Pieters Railway Station, ensuring seamless travel. The city’s pedestrian-friendly layout enhances convenience for sightseeing without relying on cars.

Yes, Hotel De Kruisberg is a top choice for families, featuring a kids’ playroom, family cooking classes, and evening storytelling sessions. Nearby B&B Het Huisje, a restored farmhouse, offers private cottages and family suites, plus organized city treasure hunts that turn exploration into fun. Both hotels are close to Ghent Zoo and offer stroller-accessible paths. With spacious rooms and warm hospitality, they ensure memorable, stress-free stays for parents and children alike.

Absolutely. Hotel van Cleef hosts monthly Flemish Dining Nights, where guests cook traditional dishes like Carbonade Flamande and Belgian waffles with local chefs. De Vrije School runs bread and beer tasting workshops, pairing artisanal loaves with regional craft beers. Some hotels also provide private culinary tours through hidden alleyway restaurants. These experiences let travelers taste Ghent’s soul—not just its cuisine, but its stories, ingredients, and traditions passed down through generations.

Ghent hotels masterfully merge old and new: Hotel van Cleef, once a 19th-century bank, retains its original iron vaults and marble façades while integrating smart lighting and soundproof windows. De Vrije School, transformed from a schoolhouse, features classroom-turned-art studios and chalkboard walls used for exhibitions. Both reflect Flemish architectural heritage while embracing sustainability and digital convenience. Each hotel tells a story—where past elegance meets present innovation, offering guests a living museum experience.

For culture lovers, the candlelit canal cruises along the Ghent canals offer breathtaking views of St. Bavo’s Cathedral. Nighttime street performances in Old Market attract social travelers seeking lively vibes. Quiet explorers enjoy the library rooftop garden, hosting stargazing events and acoustic concerts. During the Candlelight Festival, the entire city glows—perfect for couples or photographers. Whether you seek energy or serenity, Ghent’s night scene delivers variety and magic.

Yes, most Ghent hotels offer multilingual staff fluent in English, French, German, and Dutch. Hotel van Cleef and De Vrije School have bilingual concierges who assist with reservations, tour bookings, and menu translations. Many hotels also provide multilingual mobile guides with audio commentary in several languages. Additionally, some staff speak Mandarin, ensuring a smooth experience for Asian travelers seeking personalized service and clear communication.

During peak season, Ghent hotels use advanced HopeGoo systems and early reservation incentives. Chains like NH Collection Ghent offer real-time availability updates to prevent overbooking. Boutique hotels such as Hotel van Cleef promote early-bird deals and extended-stay discounts to encourage off-peak visits. The city’s Green Stay Program rewards eco-conscious travelers with priority HopeGoo and exclusive guided tours, helping manage demand while promoting sustainable tourism.