A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Loch Lomond National Park vs. Ghent for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Loch Lomond National Park or Ghent?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Loch Lomond National Park and Ghent can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Loch Lomond National Park

Loch Lomond National Park is a peaceful, relaxing, and scenic national park. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for hiking.

Ghent

Ghent is a historic, under-rated, and youthful city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Loch Lomond National Park and Ghent: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • 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 Loch Lomond National Park or Ghent?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Ghent than Loch Lomond National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Ghent is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Loch Lomond National Park is more popular for its hiking. Ghent is more touristy than Loch Lomond National Park and is popular for its medieval buildings, large squares, and weekly markets Also, Ghent is famous for The Fortress of Gravensteen. Loch Lomond National Park is well known for becoming the first designated national park in Scotland in 2002.

How is Loch Lomond National Park different from Ghent?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Loch Lomond National Park or Ghent?

Loch Lomond National Park
Ghent

Ghent is a great city for its historical sights. However, Loch Lomond National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.

Loch Lomond National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Loch Lomond National Park or Ghent? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Loch Lomond National Park
Ghent

Ghent is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Loch Lomond National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Ghent has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

Loch Lomond National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. You'll find some traditional Scottish food to sample but in general for the best food, head to one of the nicer hotels in the area.

Is Loch Lomond National Park or Ghent Better for Nightlife?

Loch Lomond National Park
Ghent

Ghent is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. However, Loch Lomond National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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.

Loch Lomond National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Loch Lomond National Park or Ghent Better for its Old Town?

Loch Lomond National Park
Ghent

Ghent is a great city for its historic old town charm. However, Loch Lomond National Park does not have a historic old town.

Ghent is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The medieval old town follows along the canal and offers great architecture and a unique atmosphere.

Loch Lomond National Park does not have a historic old town.


Is Loch Lomond National Park or Ghent Better for Hiking?

Loch Lomond National Park
Ghent

Loch Lomond National Park is a good destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Ghent is not a hiking destination.

Loch Lomond National Park offers some nice hiking trails. You can choose from relaxing walks or more strenuous hikes and options run along the shoreline or into the surrounding hills and forests. Some of the more popular hikes in the area include Ben Lomond, Conic Hill, and Callander Crags.

Ghent is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Loch Lomond National Park or Ghent?

Loch Lomond National Park
Ghent

Ghent is a great city for its shopping areas. However, Loch Lomond National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in 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.

Loch Lomond National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Loch Lomond National Park or Ghent Better for Families?

Loch Lomond National Park
Ghent

Loch Lomond National Park 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.

Loch Lomond National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. You'll find a wide range of diverse activities for kids around the park. They can explore the maze at the Lodge Forest Visitor Center, get up close with animals at Loch Lomond Bird of Prey Centre, Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park, or Loch Lomond Pony Trekking, or have an adventure at Doune Castle. Other highlights for the kids include Wellsfield Farm and the Maid of the Loch Paddle Steamer.

Ghent is a family-friendly national park. 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 Loch Lomond National Park or Ghent Better for Couples?

Loch Lomond National Park
Ghent

Both Loch Lomond National Park and Ghent are very good destinations for a couple's getaway.

Loch Lomond National Park is a great national park if you're traveling as a couple. There are many waterfront accommodation options that make for a beautiful and peaceful couples retreat. The nature and serenity is perfect for couples who want to get away from it all.

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.

Is Loch Lomond National Park or Ghent Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Loch Lomond National Park
Ghent

For backpackers, both Loch Lomond National Park and Ghent are notable places to visit.

Loch Lomond National Park is a good national park to visit for backpackers. There are some camping options available for backpackers and those who want to experience nature in its fullest.

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.

Is Loch Lomond National Park or Ghent Better for Students?

Loch Lomond National Park
Ghent

Ghent is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Loch Lomond National Park is not popular with students.

Ghent is a very popular city 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.

Loch Lomond National Park is not popular with students.


Is Loch Lomond National Park or Ghent Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Loch Lomond National Park
Ghent

Ghent is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Loch Lomond National Park is not known for its public transit.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Loch Lomond National Park. You can reach the park by train, but transportation option within the area are generally limited.

Is Loch Lomond National Park or Ghent a more walkable city?

Loch Lomond National Park
Ghent

Ghent is a great city for its ease of walking around. However, Loch Lomond National Park is not a walkable destination.

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

Loch Lomond National Park is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Loch Lomond National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Ghent Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ghent or Loch Lomond National Park?

How long in Loch Lomond National Park or Ghent?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Loch Lomond National Park and Ghent. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Loch Lomond National Park than in Ghent. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Loch Lomond National Park, and 1-3 days is enough time in Ghent.

Couples should spend more time in Ghent than Loch Lomond National Park. 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 Loch Lomond National Park 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 Loch Lomond National Park or Ghent? Ideal Length of Stay
    Loch Lomond National Park 2-4 
    Ghent 1-3

One day in Loch Lomond National Park or Ghent?

In Loch Lomond National Park, many people enjoy the that this serene destination offers. This national park 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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the under-rated city of Ghent. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.


A weekend in Loch Lomond National Park or Ghent?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Loch Lomond National Park. 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.

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Ghent. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. Most people visit for the nightlife. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Loch Lomond National Park or Ghent?

Loch Lomond National Park is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Loch Lomond National Park. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Ghent is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. It offers something for everyone.

A week in Loch Lomond National Park or Ghent?

You'll find around the peaceful destination of Loch Lomond National Park. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Ghent is a popular choice for travelers. Most people visit for the nightlife. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United Kingdom, The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, and The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium.


Which place is cheaper, Ghent or Loch Lomond National Park?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Loch Lomond National Park is £61, 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 Loch Lomond National Park and Ghent in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Loch Lomond National Park £31
    Ghent £61
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Loch Lomond National Park £62
    Ghent £122
Compare Hotels in Loch Lomond National Park and Ghent

Looking for a hotel in Loch Lomond National Park 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 Loch Lomond National Park


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.
    Loch Lomond National Park £20
    Ghent £16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ghent

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Ghent:

  • 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
  • Ostend Bruges Airport(OST) to Bruges- Round-Trip Private Transfer: $63

Is it cheaper to fly into Loch Lomond National Park or Ghent?

Prices for flights to both Ghent and Loch Lomond National Park 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
    Loch Lomond National Park £15
    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.
    Loch Lomond National Park £16
    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
    Loch Lomond National Park £3.93
    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 Loch Lomond National Park and Ghent, we can see that Ghent is more expensive. And not only is Loch Lomond National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Loch Lomond National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Loch Lomond National Park 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 Ghent would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Ghent than you might in Loch Lomond National Park.

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