Belgium's Hidden Gem Is Better with a Car
Ghent is often overshadowed by Bruges and Brussels, which is a shame because it might be Belgium's most complete city. It has the medieval architecture of Bruges, the energy of a university town, and a food scene that rivals anywhere in the country. The historic centre is stunning, but the real advantage of Ghent is its location. Sitting between Brussels and Bruges, Ghent is perfectly positioned for exploring East Flanders and beyond. Rent a car here and you can reach the coast, the Netherlands, and multiple Belgian cities without backtracking. The motorways are direct, the scenery is pleasant, and the city itself is far less crowded than Bruges.
Most rental cars in Ghent are collected from offices near Gent-Sint-Pieters railway station or from city centre locations. The station is south of the historic core and easy to reach by tram or taxi. Some providers offer hotel delivery, which is convenient if you want to explore Ghent on foot before taking longer trips. The city centre has a low-emission zone, so check whether your rental vehicle qualifies if you plan to drive into the historic core. Most modern cars are fine, but older diesels may be restricted. Parking is available at car parks on the edge of the centre, and many hotels offer spaces for guests.
East Flanders, Belgium
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Gent-Sint-Pieters station area
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Medieval cities, coast, Netherlands
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Bruges, Brussels, Antwerp, coast
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Station Collection
Gent-Sint-Pieters railway station is the main pickup point for rental cars in Ghent. The station is a short tram or taxi ride from the historic centre, and several rental companies have offices nearby. This is the most practical option if you are arriving by train.
Explore the Region
With a rental car from Ghent, the whole of Flanders is within reach. Bruges is close to the west, Antwerp to the north, and Brussels to the southeast. The coast is an easy drive, and the Dutch border is not far. The motorways are excellent and the distances are short.
Plan the handover, price and first drive
Ghent was one of the largest and richest cities in Europe during the Middle Ages. Its merchants traded wool and cloth across the continent, and the wealth they generated funded the stunning buildings that still dominate the skyline. The cathedral, the belfry, and the Graslei waterfront all date from this golden age.
Unlike Bruges, Ghent never became a museum piece. It is a university city, a tech hub, and a centre for contemporary music and art. The medieval buildings are still there, but they sit alongside modern architecture, busy cafes, and street art. The result is a city that feels historic and current at the same time.
The surrounding region of East Flanders is flat, green, and dotted with small towns that most tourists never visit. A rental car lets you see this quieter side of Belgium, with its windmills, cycling paths, and family-run restaurants serving classic Flemish dishes.
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Deposit and payment card
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Excess and cover
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Fuel policy
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Mileage and territory
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Extras and return
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Choose for people, bags and roads
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- Compact: convenient for couples and tighter parking.
- Intermediate: more room for bags and longer journeys.
- Family or SUV category: useful only when the required capacity justifies it.
- Transmission: select automatic explicitly if manual is unsuitable.
Practical planning before departure
Low Emission Zone
Ghent's historic centre has a low-emission zone. Check whether your rental vehicle meets the requirements before driving into the core. Most modern cars qualify, but some older diesels and vans may be restricted.
Parking
Street parking in the historic centre is limited. Use the car parks on the ring road and walk into the centre. Many hotels offer parking for guests. Confirm availability when you book your accommodation.
Documents
You will need your driving licence, a credit card in the main driver's name, and your booking confirmation. An International Driving Permit may be required for non-Latin licences. Check with your rental company before travel.
Local access, road and operating conditions can change. Check current signs, your supplier instructions and the linked source before travelling: Visit Ghent.
Build a realistic first journey
Bruges
Bruges is one of Belgium's most famous cities, known for its canals, cobbled streets, and medieval architecture. The drive from Ghent is quick and direct. Visit early to avoid the crowds.
The Belgian Coast
The North Sea coast is easily reachable from Ghent. Ostend is the largest resort, with beaches and seafood restaurants. Knokke is more exclusive, and smaller towns like De Haan have a quieter, traditional atmosphere.
Antwerp
Antwerp is Belgium's fashion and diamond capital, with a stunning historic port and excellent museums. The drive from Ghent is straightforward, and the city makes an excellent day trip or overnight stop.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a car in Ghent?
Not for the city centre, which is best explored on foot. But if you want to see the coast, other Belgian cities, or the Netherlands, a rental car is far more practical than public transport.
Where should I pick up a rental car in Ghent?
Gent-Sint-Pieters station is the most convenient collection point. City centre offices are available but traffic and parking make station collection less stressful for most visitors.
Can I drive from Ghent to the Netherlands?
Yes, the Dutch border is close and easily reachable by car. Most rental agreements allow travel to the Netherlands and other EU countries. Confirm cross-border policy with your provider.
Is Ghent less crowded than Bruges?
Yes, Ghent receives fewer tourists than Bruges despite having equally impressive medieval architecture. The atmosphere is more relaxed, and the city feels more like a real, living place.
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