A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ghent vs. Koblenz for Nightlife, Attractions, Food, and Old Town

Should you visit Ghent or Koblenz?

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 Koblenz. 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. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Koblenz

Koblenz is a charming, vibrant, and dynamic city. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums.

Ghent and Koblenz: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Ghent or Koblenz?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Ghent than Koblenz. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Ghent is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Koblenz attracts visitors for its small town charm. Koblenz is more touristy than Ghent and is known for its location at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers, its popularity with river cruises, and its many nearby vineyards. Ghent is famous for its medieval buildings, large squares, and weekly markets It is also well known for The Fortress of Gravensteen.

How is Ghent different from Koblenz?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ghent or Koblenz?

Ghent
Koblenz

Ghent is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Koblenz is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Koblenz. Most visitors head to the historic Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, which can be reached by chairlift. Also make sure you visit the Forum Confluentes, the State Museum, the Romanticum, and the Koblenz Sparkling Wine Museum.


Is the Food Better in Ghent or Koblenz? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ghent
Koblenz

Ghent is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Koblenz is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Ghent. 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.

Koblenz is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The city is large enough to have a diversity of restaurants that serve everything from local German specialties to other European dishes. If you want to enjoy some regional cuisine, try the Rheinischer Sauerbraten (marinated beef), Döppekooche (potato cakes), or locally brewed beer.

Is Ghent or Koblenz Better for Nightlife?

Ghent
Koblenz

Ghent is an amazing city to visit for nightlife and partying. However, Koblenz is not particularly known for its evening party scene.

Ghent has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Koblenz doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It's a smaller city, but there are still pubs around town that attract a crowd. Enjoy the local beer and chat with the locals on a relaxing night out.

Is Ghent or Koblenz Better for its Old Town?

Ghent
Koblenz

Ghent is well known for its old town. Also, Koblenz is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

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.

Koblenz has an old town worth visiting. The old town is fun to explore with its beautiful churches and quaint ice cream shops.


Is the Shopping Better in Ghent or Koblenz?

Ghent
Koblenz

Ghent is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Koblenz is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Ghent is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Koblenz has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of clothing shops in the old town where you can find a deal or splurge on a new outfit.

Is Ghent or Koblenz Better for Families?

Ghent
Koblenz

Ghent is a good destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Koblenz is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Ghent. 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.

For families, Koblenz is not always the best place to visit. Kids will enjoy the chairlift across the river that leads to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. It's also fun to take a stroll along the river, grab ice cream in old town, and play at one of the parks around town.

Is Ghent or Koblenz Better for Couples?

Ghent
Koblenz

Ghent and Koblenz both excellent destinations for a couple.

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

Koblenz makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Seeped in romantic walks and historic buildings, couples will enjoy visiting this beautiful German town. Sip Reisling at one of the many restaurants or wander through the quaint old town.


Is Ghent or Koblenz Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ghent
Koblenz

Both Ghent and Koblenz are nice destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Koblenz. There are a few affordable accommodation options around town. Food is reasonably priced as well so backpackers can enjoy a visit without breaking the bank.

Is Ghent or Koblenz Better for Students?

Ghent
Koblenz

Ghent is an amazing city to visit for students. However, Koblenz 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.

Koblenz is not popular with students.

Is Ghent or Koblenz Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Ghent
Koblenz

Ghent is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. Also, Koblenz is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Ghent is top-notch. Buses and trams travel to most parts of the city and are convenient and efficient.

While Koblenz offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses that travel the major routes around town. There's also a cable car that takes you up to the fortress.


Is Ghent or Koblenz a more walkable city?

Ghent
Koblenz

Ghent is well known for its high level of walkability. Also, Koblenz is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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

Koblenz is a somewhat walkable city. If you stay in the old town, you'll have no trouble walking around, but the train station is a good distance from the old town.

For even more information, also check out Is Ghent Worth Visiting? and Is Koblenz Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Koblenz or Ghent?

How long in Ghent or Koblenz?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Ghent or Koblenz to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Ghent than Koblenz because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Ghent, and 1-2 days is enough time in Koblenz.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ghent than Koblenz 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 Ghent.


  • How many days in Ghent or Koblenz? Ideal Length of Stay
    Ghent 1-3 
    Koblenz 1-2

One day in Ghent or Koblenz?

In Ghent, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Koblenz, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this charming destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Ghent or Koblenz?

In Ghent, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Ghent has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Koblenz. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


Five days in Ghent or Koblenz?

Ghent is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Koblenz is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Koblenz. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Ghent or Koblenz?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ghent. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Ghent. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find food and shopping around the accessible destination of Koblenz. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Munich, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin.


Which place is cheaper, Koblenz or Ghent?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Ghent is €118, while the average daily cost in Koblenz is €124. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Ghent and Koblenz in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ghent 72
    Koblenz 67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ghent 144
    Koblenz 134
Compare Hotels in Ghent and Koblenz

Looking for a hotel in Ghent or Koblenz? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Ghent


Hotels in Koblenz


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Ghent Hotel Prices and Koblenz Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ghent 19
    Koblenz 42

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ghent

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Ghent:

  • Departure Private Transfer from Ghent City to Brussels Airport by Business Car: $147
  • Departure Private Transfer from Ghent City to Brussels Airport by Luxury Van: $166
  • Ghent <-> Amsterdam Shuttle Transfer (1 to 8 Seats): $229
  • Ostend <-> Luxembourg transfer (1 to 8 places): $233
  • Ostend Bruges Airport(OST) to Bruges- Round-Trip Private Transfer: $63

Is it cheaper to fly into Ghent or Koblenz?

Prices for flights to both Koblenz and Ghent change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Ghent 35
    Koblenz 28

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Ghent

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Ghent.

  • Walking food tour: Introduction to Ghent through food: $102
  • Small-Group Food Tour in Ghent by Bike: $158

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Ghent 8.64
    Koblenz 30

Tours and Activities in Ghent

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Ghent are as follows:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Gastronomic Walking Tour of Gent - Tasters included: $3.26
  • Historical Walking Tour: Legends of Gent: $3.26
  • Ghent city tour: audio guide in your smartphone: $5.35
  • Self Guided City Audio Tour in Ghent: $5.45
  • Hidden A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Escape Game and Tour: $6.95
  • Ghent Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $7.08
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour: $8.02
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $8.02
  • Medieval Center Guided Boat Tour: $11
  • 40-Minute Historical Boat Tour of City Center: $11

Tours and Activities in Koblenz

Here are a few actual costs in Koblenz for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $8.02
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
  • Old Town Sightseeing Cruise along the Rhine: $15
  • Cochem 1-Hour Sightseeing Cruise: $15
  • Sightseeing Shippingtour around Koblenz: $16
  • Rhine Valley Castles and Palaces Boat Tour: $19
  • Panoramic Cruise on Moselle River to Winningen: $20
  • 2-Hour Sightseeing Cruise on the Rhine: $20
  • Historical Sparkling Wine Museum Guided Tour: $20
  • Christmas Boat Tour with Mulled Wine: $21
  • Cochem Evening Panorama Cruise : $27
  • Private city tour VW Bulli meets mining museum in Bochum: $71

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Ghent 18
    Koblenz 7.79

Sample the Local Flavors in Ghent

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Ghent:

  • Ghent Pub Trail : Pub crawl with interactive online game: $12
  • Private Ghent Beer & Brewery Tour by a young local: $245

Sample the Local Flavors in Koblenz

Also in Koblenz, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Private wine tasting meets Bulli in the Ruhr area: $75


When comparing the travel costs between Ghent and Koblenz, we can see that Koblenz is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Ghent or Koblenz?

Ghent has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Koblenz. When comparing the sizes of Ghent and Koblenz, 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.


When is the best time to visit Ghent or Koblenz?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Ghent or Koblenz in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Ghent and Koblenz. The summer months attract visitors to Ghent because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Koblenz this time of year.

In the summer, Ghent is around the same temperature as Koblenz. Typically, the summer temperatures in Ghent in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Koblenz averages at about 19°C (66°F).

In Ghent, it's very sunny this time of the year. Ghent usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Koblenz during summer. Ghent gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Koblenz receives 191 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Ghent usually receives less rain than Koblenz. Ghent gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Koblenz receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Ghent 17°C (63°F) 
    Koblenz 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Ghent or Koblenz in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Ghent as well as Koblenz. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Ghent this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Koblenz for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

In October, Ghent is generally around the same temperature as Koblenz. Daily temperatures in Ghent average around 12°C (54°F), and Koblenz fluctuates around 12°C (53°F).

In the autumn, Ghent often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Koblenz. Ghent gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koblenz receives 109 hours of full sun.

Ghent usually gets more rain in October than Koblenz. Ghent gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Koblenz receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Ghent 12°C (54°F) 
    Koblenz 12°C (53°F)

Should I visit Ghent or Koblenz in the Winter?

Both Koblenz and Ghent are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Ghent for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Koblenz in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Koblenz can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Ghent. Ghent is a little warmer than Koblenz in the winter. The daily temperature in Ghent averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Koblenz fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

Ghent usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Koblenz during winter. Ghent gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Koblenz receives 45 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Ghent usually receives more rain than Koblenz. Ghent gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Koblenz receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Ghent 3°C (38°F) 
    Koblenz 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Ghent or Koblenz in the Spring?

Both Koblenz and Ghent during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Ghent in the spring for the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Koblenz for the small town charm during these months.

In the spring, Ghent is cooler than Koblenz. Typically, the spring temperatures in Ghent in April average around 8°C (47°F), and Koblenz averages at about 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Ghent often gets more sunshine than Koblenz. Ghent gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Koblenz receives 145 hours of full sun.

Ghent usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Koblenz. Ghent gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Koblenz receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Ghent 8°C (47°F) 
    Koblenz 10°C (50°F)

Typical Weather for Koblenz and Ghent

Ghent Koblenz
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 4°C (39°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 6°C (42°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 8°C (47°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 10°C (50°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 14°C (58°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 17°C (63°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 19°C (66°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 19°C (66°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 16°C (61°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 12°C (54°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 12°C (53°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 75 mm (2.9 in) 7°C (44°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)