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

Should you visit Odense 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 Odense 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.

Odense

It's also known for food.

Ghent

Ghent is a under-rated, youthful, and high energy city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and shopping.

Odense and Ghent: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less popular for students
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 Odense or Ghent?

You'll generally find more things to do in Ghent than Odense. Ghent is bigger than Odense, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Ghent is more touristy than Odense and is known for its medieval buildings, large squares, and weekly markets Also, Ghent is famous for The Fortress of Gravensteen. Odense is well known for

How is Odense different from Ghent?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Odense or Ghent?

Odense
Ghent

Ghent is notable for its sights and museums. However, Odense 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.

Odense does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Odense
Ghent

Ghent is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Odense is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Ghent is an experience not to be missed. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Odense. You'll find local restaurants serving local favorites such as smoked salmon. You'll also find burger joints and international options such as sushi.

Is Odense or Ghent Better for Nightlife?

Odense
Ghent

Ghent is terrific for its evening party scene. However, Odense 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.

Odense is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Odense or Ghent Better for its Old Town?

Odense
Ghent

Ghent is notable for its historic old town charm. However, Odense 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.

Odense does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Odense or Ghent?

Odense
Ghent

Ghent is notable for its shopping areas. However, Odense is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Odense is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Odense or Ghent Better for Families?

Odense
Ghent

Odense 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.

Odense is a very family-friendly place to visit. As the home of Hans Christian Andersen, this town is a child's playhouse. You can visit the H.C. Andersen House, which will bring his fairytale mind to life. The city also has more than 200 playgrounds, an amazing zoo, and the Funen Village, which is an open air museum. There's also a castle to explore and paddle boating on the water.

Ghent is a family-friendly city. 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 Odense or Ghent Better for Couples?

Odense
Ghent

Ghent is notable for couples. However, Odense is a mediocre city for romance.

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.

Odense is not the best destination for a couple to visit. It's a charming city with a lot of green space and paddle boating on the water, but it lacks some of the romance that you find in many European cities.


Is Odense or Ghent Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Odense
Ghent

Ghent is a good destination for backpackers. However, Odense is a mediocre city for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Odense is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There's a hostel or two in town, but most backpackers don't make the time to visit this off-the-beaten-path destination.

Is Odense or Ghent Better for Students?

Odense
Ghent

Ghent is terrific for students. Also, Odense is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Plenty of students visit Odense. It's a charming and friendly city that makes a fun place to learn and live. There's a fascinating culture and a number of things to do.

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

Odense
Ghent

Ghent is terrific for its public transit. However, Odense does not have 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.

Odense does not have public transit.


Is Odense or Ghent a more walkable city?

Odense
Ghent

Ghent is notable for its ease of walking around. However, Odense is not a walkable destination.

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

Odense is not a walkable destination.

Should I spend more time in Ghent or Odense?

How long in Odense or Ghent?

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

Couples should spend more time in Ghent than Odense. 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 Odense 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 Odense or Ghent? Ideal Length of Stay
    Odense 2-3 
    Ghent 1-3

One day in Odense or Ghent?

In Odense, many people enjoy the food that this destination offers. This 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Ghent. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Odense or Ghent?

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

Ghent is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in Odense or Ghent?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ghent. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Odense or Ghent?

You'll find food around the destination of Odense. 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 cultural destination of Ghent. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Copenhagen, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Denmark, The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, and The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium.


Which place is cheaper, Ghent or Odense?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Odense is $160, while the average daily cost in Ghent is $127. 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 Odense and Ghent in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Odense $80
    Ghent $77
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Odense $160
    Ghent $154
Compare Hotels in Odense and Ghent

Looking for a hotel in Odense 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 Odense


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: Odense Hotel Prices and Ghent Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Odense $44
    Ghent $20

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Odense or Ghent?

Prices for flights to both Ghent and Odense 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
    Odense $51
    Ghent $37

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.
    Odense $29
    Ghent $9.26

Tours and Activities in Odense

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

  • Copenhagen Audio Tour: Following Hans Christian Andersen: $9.99
  • River Cruise on the Odense River: $16
  • GoBoat Self-drive Boat Tour: $57
  • Inspiring Odense - Walking Tour for Couples: $480
  • Christmas Charms in Odense - Walking Tour: $587

Tours and Activities in Ghent

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Gastronomic Walking Tour of Gent - Tasters included: $3.26
  • Historical Walking Tour: Legends of Gent: $3.26
  • Ghent city tour: audio guide in your smartphone: $5.35
  • Self Guided City Audio Tour in Ghent: $5.45
  • Hidden A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Escape Game and Tour: $6.95
  • Ghent Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $7.08
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour: $8.02
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $8.02
  • Medieval Center Guided Boat Tour: $11
  • 40-Minute Historical Boat Tour of City Center: $11

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Odense $22
    Ghent $19

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 Odense and Ghent, we can see that Odense 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 Odense would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Odense 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 Odense Expensive? and Is Ghent Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Odense or Ghent?

Ghent has a larger population, and is about 59% larger than the population of Odense. When comparing the sizes of Odense 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.