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

Should you visit Ghent or Leipzig?

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 Leipzig. 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 cultural, historic, and under-rated city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Leipzig

Leipzig is a historic, growing, and dynamic city. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Ghent and Leipzig: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ghent or Leipzig?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Ghent than Leipzig. While Leipzig is larger than Ghent, Ghent has more sights and attractions for tourists. Ghent is more popular for its food, nightlife, historical sights, and impressive beauty, while Leipzig is known for its quaint atmosphere. Ghent is popular for its medieval buildings, large squares, and weekly markets It is also home to The Fortress of Gravensteen. Leipzig is popular for being the home of several great musicians such as Bach and Richard Wagner.

How is Ghent different from Leipzig?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Leipzig 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 Leipzig?

Both Ghent and Leipzig have great landmarks and museums for visitors.

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.

Leipzig offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are many historic landmarks like Old City Hall, St. Thomas Church, St. Nicholas Church, and the Battle of the Nations Monument.

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

Ghent is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Leipzig. Coffee houses and cellar restaurants offer an unique atmosphere where you can enjoy local specialties. Sample beef roulade or Saxon dumplings while you soak up the cozy ambiance.

Is Ghent or Leipzig Better for Nightlife?

Ghent is terrific for nightlife. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Leipzig. Nightlife in town centers around live theater, cultural centers, and live entertainment.

Is Ghent or Leipzig Better for its Old Town?

Ghent is great for its historic old town. However, Leipzig does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Ghent to see the historical old town. The medieval old town follows along the canal and offers great architecture and a unique atmosphere.

Leipzig does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Ghent or Leipzig?

Both Ghent and Leipzig are great shopping destinations.

Ghent is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Leipzig is well-known for its shopping. The city center has most of the best shopping areas. There are pedestrian streets and squares like Petersstraße and Marktplatz, as well as large shopping malls like Promenaden Hauptbahnhof Leipzig and Petersbogen.

Is Ghent or Leipzig Better for Families?

Both Ghent and Leipzig are good family-friendly destinations.

Ghent is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Leipzig is a family-friendly city. Head to Belantis, which is an amusement park with rides, or take the kids to one of the many parks like Clara-Zetkin Park where they can unwind. The Leipzig Zoo makes a nice outing as well or Maya Mare is a fun waterpark. There are also several good museums like the Leipzig Panometer.

Is Ghent or Leipzig Better for Couples?

Ghent is great for romance. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Ghent is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. It makes a great weekend getaway with a diverse restaurant scene, nice hotels, and plenty of historic attractions that you can explore.

Leipzig makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many beautiful outdoor parks and natural areas where couples can enjoy this beautiful city.

Is Ghent or Leipzig Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Ghent and Leipzig are good 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 Leipzig. Many backpackers overlook this city, but there are a few hostels and some nice areas to explore for those who make their way here.

Is Ghent or Leipzig Better for Students?

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

Ghent is a great destination 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.

Leipzig is not popular with students.

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

Ghent is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Ghent can take you anywhere. Buses and trams travel to most parts of the city and are convenient and efficient.

Public transit in Leipzig can get you to some places easily. The city has 61 bus lines and 13 tram lines that connect Leizpig to elsewhere in the region.

Is Ghent or Leipzig a more walkable city?

Ghent is great for its walkability. Also, Leipzig is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of walkability.

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

Leipzig is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of Leizpig are more walkable than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Leipzig or Ghent?

How long in Ghent or Leipzig?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Ghent and Leipzig. In our opinion, Ghent has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Ghent than Leipzig. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Ghent than Leipzig. 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 Leipzig. 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 Leipzig 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.

One day in Ghent or Leipzig?

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 Leipzig, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this cultural 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 Leipzig?

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 Leipzig. 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 Leipzig?

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.

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

A week in Ghent or Leipzig?

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 growing destination of Leipzig. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Germany, and The Best Walking Tours in Germany.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Ghent and Leipzig, we can see that Leipzig 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 Leipzig would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Leipzig 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 Leipzig Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Ghent or Leipzig?

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

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Ghent or Leipzig in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Ghent as well as Leipzig. Many visitors come to Ghent in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Leipzig for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Ghent is cooler than Leipzig in the summer. The daily temperature in Ghent averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Leipzig fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Leipzig. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Ghent this time of the year. In the summer, Ghent often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Leipzig. Ghent gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Leipzig receives 206 hours of full sun.

Ghent usually gets more rain in July than Leipzig. Ghent gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 52 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ghent or Leipzig in the Autumn?

Both Leipzig and Ghent are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Ghent for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Leipzig because of the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Ghent is around the same temperature as Leipzig. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Ghent in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Leipzig averages at about 11°C (52°F).

Ghent usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Leipzig during autumn. Ghent gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Leipzig receives 107 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Ghent usually receives more rain than Leipzig. Ghent gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Ghent or Leipzig in the Winter?

Both Leipzig and Ghent during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Ghent because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Leipzig this time of year.

It's quite cold in Leipzig in the winter. The weather in Ghent can be very cold. In January, Ghent is generally much warmer than Leipzig. Daily temperatures in Ghent average around 3°C (38°F), and Leipzig fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).

In the winter, Ghent often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Leipzig. Ghent gets 47 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Leipzig receives 45 hours of full sun.

Ghent usually gets more rain in January than Leipzig. Ghent gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ghent or Leipzig in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Ghent and Leipzig. The natural beauty are the main draw to Ghent this time of year.

Ghent is cooler than Leipzig in the spring. The daily temperature in Ghent averages around 8°C (47°F) in April, and Leipzig fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Ghent usually receives more sunshine than Leipzig during spring. Ghent gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Leipzig receives 143 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Ghent usually receives less rain than Leipzig. Ghent gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Leipzig receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Leipzig and Ghent