Ghent, a true hidden gem of Belgium. Not being as popular as Brussels or Antwerp makes it all the more appealing for following two reasons: not as crowded, and reasonable prices. Also being a student friendly city, you are sure to get a better bang for your buck with some great deals be it on accommodations or even dining options. Stay tuned as we share with you our pick for one of the best and budget friendly hostel in Ghent.
This picturesque city is a must visit. With its cobbled paths, bricked architecture in the colorful tones of red, orange and brown, with its flowing canals and the belfry giving it a medieval charm, it is sure to make a special place in your heart. The best place to truly soak in the magic of Ghent would be to stay in the city centre with easy access to all the top sites from the castles to cathedrals and other historical sites.
The Best Budget Friendly Hostel in Ghent: Hostel Uppelink
Nestled right in between the medieval architecture and over the water, is this classic budget friendly hostel called Hostel Uppelink. The ambience and location of this hostel will make you feel like you’re actually in Hogwarts. Hogsmeade to be more precise for all you Potter heads. The vibe is laid back, calm, and mystical. Other than being in a charming spot, the location really is a big advantage. Easy access to all the main points of interest not only makes it convenient, but also saves you a whole lot of time as well. Safety is top notch too, in addition to super clean facilities and friendly service. Each guest gets access to their own lockers. You can check the bedding/room options available here.
One unwritten hostel rule: Highly recommended to purchase your own padlock prior to your trip as the lock and key are not provided by majority hostels and need to be your own. Here’s the one that worked well for us in majority of the hostels across Europe.
Who is Hostel Uppelink for?
Not just for backpackers, but even for solo travelers, couples on a tight budget, or anyone really who wants to see more, and spend on experiences (maybe even those countless Belgian beers because why not) rather than accommodation.
Perks of staying at Hostel Uppelink
In addition to being affordable, safe, clean and located in the heart of Ghent, other aspects that add more value to money are the fun activities and services provided to the guests.
- Breakfast – Buffet breakfast for a nominal 6-7 euros.
- Free walking tours – Complimentary walking tours around Ghent to introduce you to the history, legends and countless stories to help you get to know the place better and in a fun way. Best part, this tour is multilingual and offered in English, Spanish & French. Besides, you can even put in a request for any other available language you might be comfortable with and they will try their best to accommodate you. A great way to explore the magical town of Ghent through this complimentary 2 hour tour.
- Kayaking: If exploring on foot is too much for you and you’d rather float on these rivers and canals that flow through this town and view Ghent and its gems from a different perspective, you can even opt for the 3 hour Kayaking tours leaving everyday every 30 minutes provided by the hostel for a reasonable price of about 13-15 Euros per person.
- Beer tastings: You cannot visit Belgium and its magical towns and not indulge on those world-renowned Belgian beers. A brewery or beer tasting tours are a must to partake in and learn about the countless varieties of drafts brewed here. Another great part about Hostel Uppelink, if you are tired to step out but not tired to sip on some cold beer, you get to enjoy 7 different types and learn about them right at the Beer tasting offered by the Hostel thrice a week.
Our verdict of this best budget friendly hostel in Ghent
In our opinion and based on our stay here, Hostel Uppelink is a 10/10 as it checks all the boxes and more when it comes to budget travel stays. Great pricing, fun activities to get to know Ghent better and learn about everything from its history to its beers, the safety, and comfort make it a perfect choice for soaking in the charm of this city.
Plus, Ghent is so picturesque that you wouldn’t want to pull yourself away from it’s beauty even for a minute. Hostel Uppelink being right in the centre of all the magic is what makes it the best place to stay in Ghent.
Find best prices for Hostel Uppelink and get ready to explore this hidden gem of Belgium called Ghent!
I lived in Belgium for six years and just loved it. Ghent is great. I plan on going back eventually as an adult!
That is the most beautiful affordable hostel I have ever seen! I would love to go there and be surrounded by such beauty. I would have loved to see the inside.
I’ve been to Belgium a couple of times but never made it to Ghent. It is such a beautiful city! Will go there next time I am in Belgium for sure.
Oh this sounds absolutely lovely. I would love to be able to travel there and check this out!
This looks amazing, I would love to live aboard one day.
Oh wow it looks so beautiful there! I would love to stay there! Great tips!
The free walking tours are a nice draw for this hostel. I think I would love one of their kayak tours.
Ghent looks like a lovely place and the hostel looks really great and affordable too!
This hotel seems really interesting and I also love how it’s budget friendly! I would love to visit this sometime, I’m glad you got to share this with us! Thank you!
This looks and sounds like an amazing place to stay!
This sounds really an amazing hotel and all..glad you shared this with us..great work though..sounds lovely..
I have never been to a hostel. I feel like they must be a great way to save though, they have been around forever!! 🙂
I never been to Belgium but it is on my wish list. Thank you for the heads up.
I love love Ghent! It’s so charming and cute and I prefer it over Brugges and Brussels! I live in the NL so it’s not too far away.
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