Why Ghent is a Top Choice for Digital Nomads
Ghent stands out in the crowded European landscape. It’s Belgium's third-largest city, but it feels more like a discovery than a tourist trap. Its history is one of rebellion and attitude, a spirit that lives on in its vibrant population and ever-changing public art.
Strategic Location: Nestled in the heart of Europe and the Schengen Area, Ghent is under an hour from Brussels Airport (BRU) with seamless train connections to Paris, Amsterdam, and Cologne. This makes it an ideal launchpad for exploring the continent.
Unbeatable Vibe: Forget sterile business districts. Ghent thrives with an underground music scene, pioneering sustainable projects, and a palpable creative energy. It’s a city that inspires.
High Quality of Life: From its scenic canals to its world-renowned vegetarian food scene, Ghent prioritizes well-being. It's a city you can truly live in, not just visit.
Ease of Navigation: The city is compact and incredibly bike-friendly, allowing you to live like a local and ditch expensive transport.
Getting Your Bearings: Logistics for the Location-Independent
Setting up in a new city is seamless when the infrastructure is right. Ghent nails the basics, making your arrival and stay frictionless.
Arrival and Transport
Fly into Brussels Airport (BRU) and take a direct train; you'll be in Ghent in less than an hour. Once there, the city is your oyster. Public transport is efficient, but the best way to operate is by bike. Hostels like Treck Hostel offer rentals for as little as €5 a day, giving you the freedom to explore every corner. For a bit more style, consider a Vespa rental to cruise along the River Leie.
Practical Info for Nomads
Visa: As part of the EU and Schengen visa area, Belgium allows for straightforward short-term stays for many nationalities, fitting perfectly into the perpetual traveler model of spending less than 183 days per country.
Currency: Euro (€).
Language: The official language is Flemish (Dutch), but English is spoken fluently by almost everyone, especially in hospitality and among the younger population. You'll have no issues communicating.
The Nomad's Guide to Ghent: Work, Play, and Connect
A great nomad base needs more than good Wi-Fi; it needs soul. Ghent delivers with a perfect blend of inspiring work environments and enriching downtime activities.
Work & Eat: The Fuel for Your Hustle
Ghent is celebrated as the "vegetarian capital of the world," and this translates to an abundance of healthy, affordable, and delicious food perfect for a nomad's budget. The city even champions "Meatless Thursday."
Komkommertidj: A pay-by-weight buffet with a relaxed, cantina-style atmosphere. Perfect for a quick, healthy, and budget-friendly lunch.
Le Petit Botanique: Sourcing ingredients from city farms, this spot offers fresh, ethical food.
Plus+: Known for its fabulous bowls of exuberant salads and hearty soups—an ideal work lunch.
Explore: Decompress and Find Inspiration
Log off and immerse yourself in Ghent's unique culture. From its canals to its castles, the city is a living museum.
See the City from the Water: Take a boat tour or, for the more adventurous, rent a kayak. An evening torchlight kayak tour offers a magical perspective of the historic center.
Embrace the Art Scene: Ghent's streets are a gallery. Look for the ever-changing public art installations and explore the vibrant street art around Sleepstraat and Grawpoort. For a more formal experience, visit the contemporary art museum, S.M.A.K.
Uncover a Gory Past: Visit the 12th-century Gravensteen (Castle of the Counts), complete with a torture museum. At St Bavo’s Cathedral, marvel at the famous "Mystic Lamb" altarpiece. And don't miss ’t Galgenhuis (The Gallows House), a tiny bar whose noose decor tells a story of civic rebellion.
Connect: Nightlife and Festivals
Combat nomad loneliness by diving into Ghent's social scene. In July, the entire city becomes a stage for the Gentse Feesten, a massive ten-day festival of music and theatre. Year-round, you can connect with locals and fellow travelers.
For Beer Lovers: You're in Belgium, after all. Dulle Griet offers one of the widest beer selections, while Het Waterhuis aan de Bierkant provides stunning canal-side views.
For Music Aficionados: Squeeze into Hot Club de Gand for live jazz and folk in a cozy alleyway setting, or check out Missy Sippy Blues and Roots for authentic delta blues.
For Craft Cocktails: Jiggers has a speakeasy vibe and serves inventive cocktails made with foraged, local ingredients.
Where to Stay: Your Nomad Home Base in Ghent
Ghent offers accommodation for every type of remote worker, from the budget-conscious backpacker to the luxury-seeking entrepreneur.
Budget-Friendly & Social
Treck Hostel: With a happy vibe, themed caravans for rooms, and ample common areas, it's perfect for meeting other travelers.
Hostel Uppelink: Located in the historic heart of the city, it blends a modern interior with an old-world exterior, offering a great social lounge.
Mid-Range Comfort
Ganda Rooms and Suites: A modern hotel in a historic building with a beautiful sunroom lounge that feels like a set from an Agatha Christie novel—perfect for a quiet afternoon of work.
Aparthotel Castelnou: Located in a quiet residential area, these non-smoking rooms are ideal for longer stays, offering apartment-style living with hotel services.
Luxury & Style
1898 The Post: A stunning, 5-star former post office that is pure Instagram gold. The service is exceptional, and it’s centrally located next to all major landmarks.
Sandton Grand Hotel Reylof: An elegant 18th-century property with modern, eco-friendly credentials, a spa center, and a gourmet restaurant for when you want to indulge.
