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

Should you visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Ghent?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Newcastle upon Tyne and Ghent can help you decide which place is right for you.

Newcastle upon Tyne

Newcastle upon Tyne is a historical, vibrant, and high energy port city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Ghent

Ghent is a high energy, cultural, and historic city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Newcastle upon Tyne and Ghent: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Newcastle upon Tyne or Ghent?

You'll generally find more things to do in Ghent than Newcastle upon Tyne. Ghent is bigger than Newcastle upon Tyne, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Newcastle upon Tyne is well known for its compact and livable atmosphere as well as its active nightlife scene. Ghent is well known for its medieval buildings, large squares, and weekly markets Also, Ghent is famous for The Fortress of Gravensteen.

How is Newcastle upon Tyne different from Ghent?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Ghent?

You'll find a number of high quality museums and attractions in both Ghent and Newcastle upon Tyne.

Many visitors head to Newcastle upon Tyne specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are many historic and cultural sights around town. Some of the most interesting include the Historic Tyne Bridges, the Millennium Bridge, the Castle, Newcastle Cathedral, and the Great North Museum: Hancock.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Ghent can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

Is the Food Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Ghent? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Newcastle upon Tyne and Ghent can be difficult as they are each high quality in their own way.

Newcastle upon Tyne has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city is known for its food and there are some interesting local flavors that you should try. For something unique, try the singing hinny (sweet bread), pan haggerty (similar to potato gratin), stottie cake (bread) or craster kippers (smoked herring). You'll also find a diversity of cosmopolitan restaurants around town.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Ghent makes for a great culinary experience. 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Ghent Better for Nightlife?

Ghent is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for 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.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. Because of the large student population, you'll find a very active nightlife scene. There are several party districts in the city that you should check out including Quayside, the Gate, the Diamond Strip, Bigg Market, and Dean Street.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Ghent Better for its Old Town?

Newcastle upon Tyne and Ghent are both popular destinations with charming historical areas.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Newcastle upon Tyne. Known as Grainger Town, the city's historic commercial center is famous for its Georgian and Victorian buildings.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Newcastle upon Tyne or Ghent?

Shoppers can find a variety of high quality stores in both Newcastle upon Tyne and Ghent.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Newcastle upon Tyne. The city has boutique shops as well as major shopping malls. Some of the best shopping areas include the pedestrian shopping street of Northumberland Street, the historic Grey Street, and Grainger Market.

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.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Ghent Better for Families?

You'll find notable kid-friendly activities in either Newcastle upon Tyne or Ghent.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a family-friendly port city. Kids will love visiting the Newcastle Castle, but there are also ropes courses and the Victoria Tunnel Tours. Museum lovers will enjoy a visit to Discovery Museum, the Life Science Center, or Beamish, the Living Museum of the North.

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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Ghent Better for Couples?

Ghent is a very popular place for couples. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

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

Newcastle upon Tyne is a nice destination for couples. The city boasts many romantic walks as well as fine dining restaurants and interesting entertainment options. It's not hard to enjoy a fun date night out on the town.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Ghent Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Newcastle upon Tyne and Ghent are both notable destinations for backpackers.

Newcastle upon Tyne is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a number of hostels to choose from and plenty of entertainment choices so you shouldn't have much trouble meeting other people.

It's common for backpackers to 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Ghent Better for Students?

Ghent is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Ghent. The city is very popular with international students so it has a young and energetic vibe with plenty to do throughout the year.

Newcastle upon Tyne is a great port city to visit as a student. The city has a large student population and a lively nightlife scene, so it's a fun place for students to spend a semester or more.

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

Ghent is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Newcastle upon Tyne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Newcastle upon Tyne. There are bus, ferry, and light rail services in the city.

Is Newcastle upon Tyne or Ghent a more walkable city?

Newcastle upon Tyne is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Newcastle upon Tyne on foot. The city is one of the most walkable in the UK.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Newcastle upon Tyne Worth Visiting? and Is Ghent Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ghent or Newcastle upon Tyne?

How long in Newcastle upon Tyne or Ghent?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Newcastle upon Tyne and Ghent. In our opinion, Ghent has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Ghent than Newcastle upon Tyne. In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Newcastle upon Tyne, and 1-3 days is enough time in Ghent.

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

Couples should spend more time in Ghent than Newcastle upon Tyne. 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 Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Ghent?

In Newcastle upon Tyne, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this high energy destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This port city 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 nightlife and food that this destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Lots of people come for the nightlife. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Newcastle upon Tyne or Ghent?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Newcastle upon Tyne. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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.

Many people visit Ghent for a weekend. Lots of people come for the nightlife. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Ghent, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Newcastle upon Tyne or Ghent?

Newcastle upon Tyne is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Newcastle upon Tyne. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

The beautiful destination of Ghent offers shopping and museums. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Newcastle upon Tyne or Ghent?

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural destination of Newcastle upon Tyne. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Ghent. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers something for everyone. 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 Hiking & Trekking Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Historical Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, and The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium.

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

Which is Bigger, Newcastle upon Tyne or Ghent?

Ghent has a larger population, and is about 20% larger than the population of Newcastle upon Tyne. When comparing the sizes of Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne 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 Newcastle upon Tyne or Ghent in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Newcastle upon Tyne is cooler than Ghent. Typically, the summer temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne in July average around 15°C (59°F), and Ghent averages at about 17°C (63°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Ghent. In the summer, Newcastle upon Tyne often gets less sunshine than Ghent. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ghent receives 202 hours of full sun.

Newcastle upon Tyne usually gets more rain in July than Ghent. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Ghent in the Autumn?

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

In October, Newcastle upon Tyne is generally cooler than Ghent. Daily temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne average around 10°C (49°F), and Ghent fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives less sunshine than Ghent during autumn. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 69 hours of sunny skies, while Ghent receives 105 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Newcastle upon Tyne. In October, Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives more rain than Ghent. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Ghent in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Ghent in the winter. The weather in Newcastle upon Tyne can be very cold. Newcastle upon Tyne is around the same temperature as Ghent in the winter. The daily temperature in Newcastle upon Tyne averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Ghent fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Newcastle upon Tyne often gets less sunshine than Ghent. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 40 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 Newcastle upon Tyne. Newcastle upon Tyne usually gets more rain in January than Ghent. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Newcastle upon Tyne or Ghent in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Newcastle upon Tyne and Ghent. Also, many travelers come to Ghent for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Newcastle upon Tyne is cooler than Ghent. Typically, the spring temperatures in Newcastle upon Tyne in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Ghent averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives less sunshine than Ghent during spring. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Ghent receives 158 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Newcastle upon Tyne usually receives more rain than Ghent. Newcastle upon Tyne gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Ghent and Newcastle upon Tyne