13 Oclock Hostel

Even though it’s central, it wasn’t too noisy, and the staff actually enforce the quiet-at-night rule, which I appreciated. The hostel was clean, affordable, and felt secure. Late checkout is available, and the private rooms have ensuite bathrooms and towels.

The price felt high for a hostel, though I suppose that’s the city. Our double room was narrow but adequate, with a kitchen, coffee machine, and what we needed to make something simple. The toilet was very basic, just okay. The bed was a problem: it was partly broken and had been patched with wooden slats from another bed.

The kitchen is well equipped, the rooms are clean, and most Gent attractions and the city centre are an easy walk away. It’s good value. There’s only one elevator, and staff use it to service rooms too, so if stairs aren’t an option, you may end up waiting a while.

I expected something different from a hostel, but this worked out well. I asked for a double room and got one proper double bed, not two singles pushed together. The kitchenette is basic but does the job. It’s fairly central, though a fair way from the station, and Ghent has good transport. I’d recommend staying here.