A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ghent vs. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc for Nightlife, Couples, Food, and Families

Should you visit Ghent or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Ghent and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Ghent

Ghent is a under-rated, youthful, and high energy city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a awe-inspiring, epic, and majestic mountain town. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for skiing, nightlife, and food.

Ghent and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ghent or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. Although Ghent and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc are popular destinations, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc has more sights and attractions for tourists. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is very popular for its skiing, resorts, and hiking, while Ghent attracts visitors for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is more touristy than Ghent and is popular for its world famous skiing, stunning natural beauty, and access to Mont Blanc. It is also well known for Mont Blanc. Ghent is famous for its medieval buildings, large squares, and weekly markets

Mont Blanc

How is Ghent different from Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Ghent. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Ghent or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Skiing?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a world-class destination for snow skiing. However, Ghent is not a skiing destination.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a top destination for snow skiing, and it attracts visitors from around the world. It is one of the most famous and best ski areas in the world. There are 5 ski resorts in the area (Grands Montets, Les Houches, Le Tour/Balme, La Flegere and Le Brevent) and many options for expert skiers. You can take the Aiguille du Midi cable car from the middle of town to the top of the 3840 meter peak.

Ghent is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ghent or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Ghent is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Ghent. The city has many different sights that are concentrated in a compact area. Make sure you check out the Cathedral of St. Bavo, The Fortress of Gravensteen, and The Belfry. The audio tour at Gravensteen really brings the history to life and makes for an enjoyable activity.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Ghent or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Ghent and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc both to be excellent destinations.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Ghent makes for a great culinary experience. The food scene is diverse and international, but there are also many local dishes and flavors that you should try. Pas de Rouge is a local cheese and mastel is a local bread. Ganda ham is also a popular meat that is dried and salted. In additional to traditional restaurants, you'll find almost any international cuisine that you could want.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Regional food is wonderful and hearty, making for a great energy boost for all of your hiking or skiing. Dishes often include a lot of cream and cheese as well as local meats and potatoes. Local specialties include Crozets (buckwheat pasta), Fondue, and Galette des Rois (cake).

Is Ghent or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Nightlife?

Ghent is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Ghent is a must-see party destination. With its young student population, you'll find plenty of lively bars and clubs around town. There are many places where you can party or dance into the early hours of the morning and some of the best places are around Oude Beestenmarkt, De Overpoort, and De Vlasmarkt. There's also the famous Ghent Festival every July.

The people in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc know how to have a good time. The town offers a great après-ski scene with many places to grab a drink or listen to live music. It's a tourist area with many young and adventurous vacationers who are out to have a good time.

Is Ghent or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Resorts?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Ghent is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Chamonix-Mont-Blanc for its luxury resorts. The region has 5 ski resorts (Grands Montets, Les Houches, Le Tour/Balme, La Flegere and Le Brevent), making it an excellent ski destination.

Ghent is not a resort destination.

Is Ghent or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for its Old Town?

Ghent is an excellent place to visit for its old town. However, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Ghent. The medieval old town follows along the canal and offers great architecture and a unique atmosphere.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc does not have a historic old town.

Is Ghent or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Hiking?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Ghent is not a hiking destination.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Filled with panoramic views and breathtaking natural scenes, the hiking is among the best in the world. Some of the best hikes in the area include Plan de l'Aiguille - Montenvers Train Mer de Glace, Aiguilles Rouges Nature Reserve Hiking, and any of the "Glacier Views" Hikes.

Ghent is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ghent or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Ghent is an excellent place to visit for its shopping opportunities. However, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Ghent is well-known for its shopping. The city has the largest pedestrian shopping area in Belgium, making it a great place to explore on foot. The city has several different shopping areas which each have their own style and personality. You'll find everything from major European brands to local boutiques and street markets.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Ghent or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Families?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a very family-friendly place to visit. The mountains are the perfect playground for families. Kids will love the gondolas, chairlifts, and kid-friendly hikes that take them over rocks and to spectacular viewpoints. This is the perfect addition to a European family vacation.

Ghent is a family-friendly city. The city has a fun atmosphere with kid-friendly restaurants and a number of attractions that appeal to all ages. Kids and adults alike will enjoy exploring Gravensteen, which is the "Castle of Counts". You can also take a boat tour, rent bikes, or head to one of the town's playgrounds so the kids can burn off some energy.

Is Ghent or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Couples?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Nature-lovers, skiers, and outdoor enthusiasts will love a couples vacation to Chamonix. The setting is romantic and filled with adventures for thrill-seekers.

Ghent makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It makes a great weekend getaway with a diverse restaurant scene, nice hotels, and plenty of historic attractions that you can explore.

Is Ghent or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. You'll find a nice selection of hostels with affordable dorms and fun atmospheres.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Ghent. The city has a number of hostels to choose from as well as a young vibe with a large student population. Many people overlook Ghent, but it feels more genuine than nearby Bruges, which attracts the larger tourist crowds.

Is Ghent or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Students?

Ghent is terrific for its student-friendly activities. However, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not popular with students.

Ghent is a very popular place to visit for students. The city is very popular with international students so it has a young and energetic vibe with plenty to do throughout the year.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not popular with students.

Is Ghent or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Both Ghent and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc offer terrific public transit options.

With a huge network, the transit system in Ghent can get you around easily. Buses and trams travel to most parts of the city and are convenient and efficient.

Visitors in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. It's easy to explore the region by public transport. There are buses and trains available, most of which are free with a local transport card.

Is Ghent or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc a more walkable city?

Ghent and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Ghent is very walkable. The area's with the most tourist attractions are generally walkable.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a very walkable city. It's generally walkable and there are plenty of walking trails outside of town.

For even more information, also check out Is Ghent Worth Visiting? and Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Ghent?

How long in Ghent or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Both Ghent and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc than in Ghent. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Ghent, and 4-7 days is enough time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc.

Families should spend more time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc than Ghent. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc than Ghent. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc than Ghent if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc.

One day in Ghent or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

In Ghent, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Lots of people come for the nightlife. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

In Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, many people enjoy the skiing and nightlife that this spectacular destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This mountain town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Ghent or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Many people visit Ghent for a weekend. Lots of people come for the nightlife. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Ghent, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Ghent or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

The beautiful destination of Ghent offers shopping and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a fun place to experience. In Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, many people enjoy the food and skiing that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Ghent or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Ghent. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers something for everyone. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

In Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, many people enjoy the skiing and nightlife that this spectacular destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium, The Best Contiki Tours to France, and The Best G Adventures Tours to France.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Ghent and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, we can see that Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is more expensive. And not only is Ghent much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Ghent would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Ghent and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc than you might in Ghent.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Ghent Expensive? and Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Ghent or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Ghent has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. When comparing the sizes of Ghent and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.