A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Isle of Skye vs. Ghent for Food, Couples, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Isle of Skye or Ghent?

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 Isle of Skye and Ghent. 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.

Isle of Skye

Isle of Skye is a diverse, dramatic, and scenic island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking.

Ghent

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

Isle of Skye and Ghent: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Isle of Skye or Ghent?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Ghent. Although Isle of Skye and Ghent are both popular with visitors, Ghent has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Ghent is more popular for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and shopping, while Isle of Skye is known for its beaches and hiking. Isle of Skye is more touristy than Ghent and is popular for its quaint fishing villages, scenic landscapes, and historic castles. Ghent is popular for its medieval buildings, large squares, and weekly markets It is also home to The Fortress of Gravensteen.

How is Isle of Skye different from Ghent?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Isle of Skye or Ghent?

Ghent is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Isle of Skye 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.

Isle of Skye does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Isle of Skye or Ghent? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Isle of Skye and Ghent.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Isle of Skye. Foodies will appreciate the seasonal local ingredients that many restaurants use. Both the land and sea offer ingredients that inspire delicious dishes. You can choose from Michelin star restaurants, local cafes, and cozy inns. The food is fresh and well made.

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.

Is Isle of Skye or Ghent Better for Nightlife?

Ghent is terrific for nightlife. However, Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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.

Isle of Skye is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Isle of Skye or Ghent Better for Beaches?

Isle of Skye is a well-known place for its beaches. However, Ghent is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Isle of Skye for it's beautiful beaches. Some of the best beaches in Scotland are found on the Isle of Skye. The rugged coastline feels pristine and undiscovered. Some of the best beaches include Coral Beach, Talisker Bay Beach, Rubha Shlèite Beach, and Camasunary Bay.

Ghent is not a beach destination.

Is Isle of Skye or Ghent Better for its Old Town?

Ghent is a very popular place for its historic old town. However, Isle of Skye 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.

Isle of Skye does not have a historic old town.

Is Isle of Skye or Ghent Better for Hiking?

Isle of Skye is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Ghent is not a hiking destination.

Isle of Skye is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Hikes on the island range from family-friendly to some of the most challenging in Scotland. The setting is dramatic and beautiful and the hikes are a varied as the landscape. Some of the most popular hikes include the Fairy Pools, the Old Man of Storr, Neist Point Lighthouse, and the Quiraing.

Ghent is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Isle of Skye or Ghent?

Ghent is a very popular place for shopping. However, Isle of Skye 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.

Isle of Skye is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Isle of Skye or Ghent Better for Families?

Both Isle of Skye and Ghent are good family-friendly destinations.

Isle of Skye is a family-friendly island. Kids who love the outdoors will enjoy many of the kid-friendly hikes in the area. Favorites include the Old Man of Storr Hike and the Brother’s Point Hike. Other fun family-friendly places to visit include the Isle of Skye Fairy Glen, the Fairy Pools, and Slipway Beach.

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 Isle of Skye or Ghent Better for Couples?

Isle of Skye and Ghent both excellent destinations for a couple.

Isle of Skye makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With beautiful hikes and impressive castles, this island makes a stunning romantic getaway. There are beautiful viewpoints and coastal backdrops that make for a perfect couples getaway.

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 Isle of Skye or Ghent Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye. There are many beautiful places to camp, so backpackers will enjoy hiking during the day and sleeping under the stars at night.

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 Isle of Skye or Ghent Better for Students?

Ghent is terrific for its student-friendly activities. However, Isle of Skye 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.

Isle of Skye is not popular with students.

Is Isle of Skye or Ghent 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. However, Isle of Skye is lacking in good options 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 is limited or non-existant in Isle of Skye. There are local bus routes on the island that are operated by Stagecoach.

Is Isle of Skye or Ghent a more walkable city?

Ghent is a very popular place for its walkability. However, Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

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

Isle of Skye is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Isle of Skye Worth Visiting? and Is Ghent Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ghent or Isle of Skye?

How long in Isle of Skye or Ghent?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Isle of Skye and Ghent. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Isle of Skye than in Ghent. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Isle of Skye, and 1-3 days is enough time in Ghent.

Families should spend more time in Ghent than Isle of Skye. 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 Isle of Skye. 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 Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye or Ghent?

In Isle of Skye, many people enjoy the food that this stunning destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. Lots of people come for the hiking. This island 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, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this under-rated city offers. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this city.

A weekend in Isle of Skye or Ghent?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Isle of Skye. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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.

Ghent is a fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the nightlife. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Isle of Skye or Ghent?

Isle of Skye is a fun place to experience. In Isle of Skye, many people enjoy the food that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the hiking. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the high energy destination of Ghent. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Isle of Skye or Ghent?

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

Ghent is a popular place to visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best 3-Day Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, and The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium.

When comparing the travel costs between Isle of Skye and Ghent, we can see that Isle of Skye 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 Isle of Skye Expensive? and Is Ghent Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Isle of Skye or Ghent?

Ghent has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Isle of Skye. When comparing the sizes of Isle of Skye and Ghent, 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 Isle of Skye or Ghent?

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 Isle of Skye or Ghent in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Isle of Skye as well as Ghent. The summer months attract visitors to Isle of Skye because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Ghent this time of year.

Isle of Skye is cooler than Ghent in the summer. The daily temperature in Isle of Skye averages around 13°C (55°F) in July, and Ghent fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Ghent. In the summer, Isle of Skye often gets less sunshine than Ghent. Isle of Skye gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ghent receives 202 hours of full sun.

Isle of Skye usually gets more rain in July than Ghent. Isle of Skye gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Ghent in the Autumn?

Both Ghent and Isle of Skye are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Isle of Skye this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Ghent for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Isle of Skye is cooler than Ghent. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Isle of Skye in October average around 9°C (49°F), and Ghent averages at about 12°C (54°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives less sunshine than Ghent during autumn. Isle of Skye gets 82 hours of sunny skies, while Ghent receives 105 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Isle of Skye. In October, Isle of Skye usually receives more rain than Ghent. Isle of Skye gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Ghent in the Winter?

Both Ghent and Isle of Skye during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Isle of Skye for the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Ghent in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Ghent can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Isle of Skye. In January, Isle of Skye is generally a little warmer than Ghent. Daily temperatures in Isle of Skye average around 4°C (40°F), and Ghent fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Isle of Skye often gets less sunshine than Ghent. Isle of Skye gets 41 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ghent receives 47 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Isle of Skye. Isle of Skye usually gets more rain in January than Ghent. Isle of Skye gets 127 mm (5 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Isle of Skye or Ghent in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Isle of Skye and Ghent. Many visitors come to Isle of Skye in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Ghent for the natural beauty during these months.

Isle of Skye is cooler than Ghent in the spring. The daily temperature in Isle of Skye averages around 7°C (44°F) in April, and Ghent fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Isle of Skye usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Ghent during spring. Isle of Skye gets 168 hours of sunny skies, while Ghent receives 158 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Isle of Skye usually receives more rain than Ghent. Isle of Skye gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Ghent and Isle of Skye