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

Should you visit Warsaw 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 Warsaw 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.

Warsaw

Warsaw is a cultural, historical, and under-rated city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Ghent

Ghent is a historic, under-rated, and youthful city. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Warsaw and Ghent: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Warsaw or Ghent?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Warsaw than Ghent, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Warsaw is more popular for its big city activities, while Ghent is known for its food, nightlife, shopping, and impressive beauty. Ghent is more touristy than Warsaw and is popular for its medieval buildings, large squares, and weekly markets Warsaw is popular for its historical position as a cultural and political center. It is also home to The Old Town Market Square.

How is Warsaw different from Ghent?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Spend time exploring the very good sights and museums in either Warsaw or Ghent.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Warsaw. There are a number of landmarks and interesting museums around town. Many of the museums focus on the area's history, including the Warsaw Rising Museum, POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews, and the Museum of Warsaw. Other notable sights include the Royal Castle, Łazienki Królewskie Park, and Wilanów Palace Museum and Park.

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.

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

Ghent is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Warsaw is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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 Warsaw. The city's restaurants are diverse with a combination of international flavors, Michelin Star restaurants, and Soviet era "milk bars". Traditional dishes are hearty with many soups, dumplings, and desserts to choose from. Some of the most famous dishes include pierogis (dumplings), zurek (soup), and borsch (beetroot soup).

Is Warsaw or Ghent Better for Nightlife?

Ghent is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Warsaw is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

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.

Warsaw offers plenty to do in the evening. The city has an active nightlife scene with many bars and clubs spread out in a number of different areas. Many locals dress for the occasion, so depending on your hangout spot of choice, you may want to dress to impress.

Is Warsaw or Ghent Better for its Old Town?

Both Warsaw and Ghent have very good historic old towns worth visiting.

Warsaw is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. While many buildings have been rebuilt following World War II, there are still some historical gems to explore. St. John's Archcathedral dates back to the 14th century and Rynek Starego Miasta is the square at the heart of the 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Warsaw or Ghent?

Ghent is a great city for shopping. Also, Warsaw is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

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.

Warsaw offers some nice shopping areas. The city has malls, shopping streets, flea markets and boutiques to explore. There are both global brands and local items to choose from. For the best deals you should head to an outlet mall.

Is Warsaw or Ghent Better for Families?

Both Warsaw and Ghent are good to visit with kids.

Warsaw offers lots of family activities. The city has many museums that are dedicated to the area's history. These museums may, at times, cover difficult topics for young children, but there are also science and technology museums that are perfect for young minds. Make sure you check out the Copernicus Science Center. There's also a city zoo and many parks that are fun to explore.

Ghent is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Warsaw or Ghent Better for Couples?

Ghent is a great city for romance. Also, Warsaw is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

Ghent is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. It makes a great weekend getaway with a diverse restaurant scene, nice hotels, and plenty of historic attractions that you can explore.

Warsaw makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. While many of the city's historical buildings were destroyed during the war, there are a few gems that remain. Couples will enjoy visiting the Wilanów Palace and the Palace of Culture and Science. There are also many parks and gardens where you can wander or enjoy a picnic. And, of course, the old town is a beautiful way to pass the time.

Is Warsaw or Ghent Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Warsaw and Ghent are good places to visit.

Warsaw is a good city to visit for backpackers. While it's not as popular as many other city's in the area, this city remains affordable and fascinating for those who pass through. There are a few hostels around town as well as cheap places to grab a bite to eat.

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 Warsaw or Ghent Better for Students?

Ghent is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Warsaw is not as popular, but is still a nice city for 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.

Many students visit Warsaw. The city's long history and current standing as a cultural and economic hub make it appealing to international students. The prices are reasonable and the opportunities for students are abundant.

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

Ghent is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Warsaw is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

The public transit in Warsaw can get you around easily. There are buses, trams, and a metro available.

Is Warsaw or Ghent a more walkable city?

Ghent is a great city for its walkability. However, Warsaw is not known for its high level of walkability.

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

Warsaw is generally not very walkable. Many sights are spread out, so walking between attractions isn't always the best option.

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

Should I spend more time in Ghent or Warsaw?

How long in Warsaw or Ghent?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Warsaw and Ghent. In our opinion, Ghent has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Ghent than Warsaw. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Ghent than Warsaw. 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 Warsaw. 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 Warsaw 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 Warsaw or Ghent?

In Warsaw, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this diverse destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

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 Warsaw or Ghent?

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

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 Warsaw or Ghent?

Warsaw is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Warsaw. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Warsaw or Ghent?

You'll find food and shopping around the diverse destination of Warsaw. 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.

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 Sightseeing Tours in Poland, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Krakow, The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, and The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Warsaw and Ghent, we can see that Ghent is more expensive. And not only is Warsaw much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Warsaw would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Warsaw 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 Warsaw.

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

Which is Bigger, Warsaw or Ghent?

Warsaw has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Ghent. When comparing the sizes of Warsaw 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 Warsaw 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 Warsaw or Ghent in the Summer?

Both Ghent and Warsaw during the summer are popular places to visit. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Warsaw this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Ghent for the family-friendly experiences.

Warsaw is around the same temperature as Ghent in the summer. The daily temperature in Warsaw averages around 19°C (65°F) in July, and Ghent fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

In Ghent, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Warsaw. In the summer, Warsaw often gets more sunshine than Ghent. Warsaw gets 353 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ghent receives 202 hours of full sun.

Warsaw usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Ghent. Warsaw gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Warsaw or Ghent in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Warsaw and Ghent. Many travelers come to Warsaw for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Ghent in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

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

Warsaw usually receives more sunshine than Ghent during autumn. Warsaw gets 135 hours of sunny skies, while Ghent receives 105 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Warsaw usually receives less rain than Ghent. Warsaw gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Warsaw or Ghent in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Warsaw as well as Ghent. Many visitors come to Warsaw in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Ghent for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Ghent can be very cold during winter. Warsaw can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Warsaw is generally much colder than Ghent. Daily temperatures in Warsaw average around -3°C (27°F), and Ghent fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Warsaw often gets less sunshine than Ghent. Warsaw gets 35 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Ghent receives 47 hours of full sun.

Warsaw usually gets less rain in January than Ghent. Warsaw gets 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Warsaw or Ghent in the Spring?

Both Ghent and Warsaw are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Warsaw for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Ghent because of the natural beauty.

Warsaw is around the same temperature as Ghent in the spring. The daily temperature in Warsaw averages around 9°C (47°F) in April, and Ghent fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Warsaw. Warsaw usually receives more sunshine than Ghent during spring. Warsaw gets 247 hours of sunny skies, while Ghent receives 158 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Warsaw usually receives less rain than Ghent. Warsaw gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Ghent receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Ghent and Warsaw