Experience in Gent, Belgium by Lauren

What is it like to live in Ghent? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

It's a real student city! I've been studying in Ghent for 3 years now and the city always has something new to offer. Ghent has great nightlife for students and great food at student prices. The city center is quite small so you can do everything by foot or by tram.

What is the student lifestyle like in Ghent?

Students in Ghent love to hang out in the city after class, having a drink in their favorite bar. Especially at night! Nightlife is a big thing for students.

How much does it cost to live in Ghent?

A room in Ghent usually costs about 320. But you can go as crazy as you like. Most students spend about 50 euros a week for food and going out.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Ghent? Is there any advice you can give?

I don't know, I don't have a room in Ghent. But a lot of my friends do, if you don't wait too long you van find really good rooms. Ghent is full of students rooms all over the city.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

French fries! An absolute favorite among students. Also the spaghetti of Kastart and the spare ribs of Amadeus are dishes you must have had before you die!

What places would you recommend visiting in Ghent?

Next to the above restaurants, "de graslei" a beautiful picturesque place by the canal to hang out with friends on a sunny day (with a bottle of wine.) Then the "overpoortstraat" or just "overpoort" is a street full of bars where you have parties every night!

Is it good to eat out in Ghent? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

Kastart for the best spaghetti, Amadeus for spare ribs, Frituur Julien for the best fries, prima donna for cheap and fresh pizza,... All of them are very cheap!

Is the nightlife good in Ghent? Where is good to go?

Overpoort, definitely! Also Sint Jacobs-plein (a square with bars)

What advice would you give future students heading to Ghent?

Just have a great great time!!