A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Inner Hebrides vs. Ghent for Food, Couples, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Inner Hebrides or Ghent?

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

Should I visit Inner Hebrides or Ghent? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Inner Hebrides

Inner Hebrides is a stunning, natural, and peaceful islands. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking.

Ghent

Ghent is a youthful, high energy, and cultural city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Inner Hebrides and Ghent: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Inner Hebrides or Ghent?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Ghent. Although Inner Hebrides and Ghent are both popular with visitors, Ghent has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Ghent is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Inner Hebrides is known for its beaches and hiking. Ghent is more touristy than Inner Hebrides and is popular for its medieval buildings, large squares, and weekly markets It is also home to The Fortress of Gravensteen. Inner Hebrides is popular for its rugged landscape, beautiful coastline, and local whisky.

How is Inner Hebrides different from Ghent?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Inner Hebrides or Ghent?

Inner Hebrides
Ghent

Ghent is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Inner Hebrides does not have museums and landmarks.

Ghent offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Inner Hebrides does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Inner Hebrides
Ghent

Ghent is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Inner Hebrides is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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 Inner Hebrides. It wasn't long ago that there was a limited selection of restaurants on the islands, but these days you shouldn't have much trouble finding some Scottish classics. The area continues to grow its restaurant scene, which highlights regional ingredients and the local whisky distilleries.

Is Inner Hebrides or Ghent Better for Nightlife?

Inner Hebrides
Ghent

Ghent is an unbeatable place for nightlife. However, Inner Hebrides is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

The nightlife in Ghent is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

Inner Hebrides is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Inner Hebrides or Ghent Better for Beaches?

Inner Hebrides
Ghent

Inner Hebrides is a well-known place for its beaches. However, Ghent is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Inner Hebrides for it's beautiful beaches. The islands offer a truly unexpected sight, with white sand beaches and blue waters. Some of the best beaches to visit include Calgary Beach on the Isle of Mull, Machir Bay on the Isle of Islay, and Coral Beach on the Isle of Skye.

Ghent is not a beach destination.


Is Inner Hebrides or Ghent Better for its Old Town?

Inner Hebrides
Ghent

Ghent is a very popular place for its historic old town. However, Inner Hebrides does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Ghent. The medieval old town follows along the canal and offers great architecture and a unique atmosphere.

Inner Hebrides does not have a historic old town.

Is Inner Hebrides or Ghent Better for Hiking?

Inner Hebrides
Ghent

Inner Hebrides is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Ghent is not a hiking destination.

Inner Hebrides is a popular spot for hiking. To fully experience the area's natural beauty, you really should go on a few hikes. The hikes are varied in landscape, length, and skill level. Some of the favorites include Beinn an Òir, Coire Dubh, and Ben More.

Ghent is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Inner Hebrides or Ghent?

Inner Hebrides
Ghent

Ghent is a very popular place for shopping. However, Inner Hebrides is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Ghent. 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.

Inner Hebrides is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Inner Hebrides or Ghent Better for Families?

Inner Hebrides
Ghent

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Inner Hebrides or Ghent.

Inner Hebrides is a family-friendly islands. Beaches, wildlife spotting, and boat tours all make for a fun adventure for the whole family. These islands offer a unique and truly rewarding experience that is fun for everyone.

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.

Is Inner Hebrides or Ghent Better for Couples?

Inner Hebrides
Ghent

With fun activities for couples, both Inner Hebrides and Ghent make for a superb place to visit.

Inner Hebrides makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who want to move at a slower pace and soak up natural beauty will appreciate these islands. There are sandy beaches, welcoming communities, and spectacular views that offer both romance and a little adventure.

Couples visit Ghent frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It makes a great weekend getaway with a diverse restaurant scene, nice hotels, and plenty of historic attractions that you can explore.

Is Inner Hebrides or Ghent Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Inner Hebrides
Ghent

Inner Hebrides and Ghent are both good destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Inner Hebrides. The islands have some campsites that let you fully enjoy the area's stunning natural beauty.

Ghent is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. 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 Inner Hebrides or Ghent Better for Students?

Inner Hebrides
Ghent

Ghent is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Inner Hebrides is not popular with students.

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

Inner Hebrides is not popular with students.

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

Inner Hebrides
Ghent

Ghent is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. However, Inner Hebrides is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Visitors in Ghent can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. Buses and trams travel to most parts of the city and are convenient and efficient.

Public transit is generally limited in Inner Hebrides. Ferries and some local buses are available. It's also possible to find there-and-back day cruises to the islands.

Is Inner Hebrides or Ghent a more walkable city?

Inner Hebrides
Ghent

Ghent is a very popular place for its walkability. However, Inner Hebrides is not a walkable destination.

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

Inner Hebrides is not a walkable destination.


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

Should I spend more time in Ghent or Inner Hebrides?

How long in Inner Hebrides or Ghent?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Inner Hebrides and Ghent. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Inner Hebrides than in Ghent. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Inner Hebrides, and 1-3 days is enough time in Ghent.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ghent than Inner Hebrides 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 Inner Hebrides or Ghent? Ideal Length of Stay
    Inner Hebrides 3-5 
    Ghent 1-3

One day in Inner Hebrides or Ghent?

In Inner Hebrides, many people enjoy the food that this natural destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This islands 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.

In Ghent, you'll find museums and nightlife. Visiting the old town is also a must. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A weekend in Inner Hebrides or Ghent?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Inner Hebrides. 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.

Ghent is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Inner Hebrides or Ghent?

Inner Hebrides is a fun place to experience. In Inner Hebrides, many people enjoy the food that this destination offers. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ghent. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. It offers something for everyone. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Inner Hebrides or Ghent?

You'll find food around the tranquil destination of Inner Hebrides. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the city of Ghent. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh, The Best 10-Day Tours from London, The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, and The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium.


Which place is cheaper, Ghent or Inner Hebrides?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Inner Hebrides is £142, while the average daily cost in Ghent is £101. 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 Inner Hebrides and Ghent in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Inner Hebrides £67
    Ghent £61
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Inner Hebrides £134
    Ghent £122
Compare Hotels in Inner Hebrides and Ghent

Looking for a hotel in Inner Hebrides or Ghent? 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 Inner Hebrides


Hotels in Ghent


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Inner Hebrides £76
    Ghent £16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ghent

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Ghent:

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Inner Hebrides or Ghent?

Prices for flights to both Ghent and Inner Hebrides 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
    Inner Hebrides £31
    Ghent £30

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.
    Inner Hebrides £22
    Ghent £7.39

Tours and Activities in Ghent

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

  • Bicycle tour in historic Ghent: $49
  • Christmas Experience in Ghent - Walking Tour: $491
  • Discover Ghent with a self-guided Outside Escape city game tour!: $22
  • Experience Christmas in Mons - Walking Tour: $247
  • Exquisite Sites of Ghent - Family Tour: $187
  • Exquisite Sites of Ghent - Family Tour: $384
  • From Brussels: Private Tour of Bruges, Ghent and Flanders: $620
  • Gastronomic Walking Tour of Gent - Tasters included: $3.26
  • Ghent Beer Guided Walking Tour: $49
  • Ghent Beer and Sightseeing Adventure: $97
  • Ghent Bike Tour Off-the-beaten-track: $52
  • Ghent City Highlights Walking Tour with Light Meal: $75

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Inner Hebrides £7.71
    Ghent £15

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


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