7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Ghent

Ghent, is a charming city known for its medieval architecture, vibrant culture, and dynamic community of digital nomads. While the city itself offers plenty to explore, sometimes a change of scenery is needed. Whether you're looking for a quick day trip or a relaxing weekend getaway, there are plenty of options within easy reach. From popular tourist spots to hidden gems, here are seven destinations that are perfect for when you need a break from your laptop screen.

Bruges

Just a short train ride away from Ghent, Bruges is like stepping into a medieval fairytale. Known for its picturesque canals, cobblestone streets, and well-preserved architecture, it's a must-visit for anyone in the region. Spend your weekend meandering through the Markt square, climbing the Belfry for panoramic views, or indulging in some of the finest Belgian chocolates and waffles.

How to Get There: The best way to get to Bruges from Ghent is by train, with frequent services taking around 25 minutes.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to take a boat tour along the canals for a unique perspective of the city's beauty.

Where to Stay: Hotel De Orangerie offers a luxurious stay with views of the canal, while the Pand Hotel is known for its charming atmosphere.

Where to Eat: For a memorable meal, visit Bistro De Schilder, known for its traditional Flemish dishes and cozy ambiance.

Antwerp

Antwerp is a hub of fashion, art, and diamonds. Spend your weekend exploring the Royal Museum of Fine Arts, shopping on the Meir, or learning about the city's diamond trade at the Diamond District. The stunning Cathedral of Our Lady and the Plantin-Moretus Museum are also not to be missed.

How to Get There: Antwerp is easily accessible from Ghent by train, with the journey taking approximately 1 hour.

Travel Tip: Check out the view from the top of the MAS Museum, which is free to access and offers a stunning panorama of the city.

Where to Stay: The Hotel Julien features a rooftop terrace and stylish rooms, while the Hotel Rubens-Grote Markt has a prime location near the cathedral.

Where to Eat: Fiskebar is renowned for its fresh seafood and modern Nordic-inspired dishes.

Leuven

Leuven is a vibrant university town with a youthful spirit. The weekend is the perfect time to explore the Old Market Square, which is lined with lively bars and cafes. The stunning Gothic Town Hall and the University Library with its bell tower are architectural marvels that shouldn't be missed. Leuven is also home to the oldest Catholic university in the world and the birthplace of Stella Artois, so a brewery tour is in order.

How to Get There: Leuven is a quick train ride from Ghent, taking about 1 hour and 10 minutes.

Travel Tip: Visit the M-Museum Leuven for contemporary art exhibitions in a striking modern building.

Where to Stay: The pentahotel Leuven offers a trendy stay with a lively bar scene, while the Begijnhof Hotel provides a tranquil retreat.

Where to Eat: Domus serves traditional Belgian fare with house-brewed beers in a cozy setting.

De Haan

For a seaside escape, De Haan is a charming coastal town with a Belle Époque vibe. Its expansive beaches, dune forests, and quaint tram that runs along the coast make for a perfect relaxing weekend. Take a stroll along the promenade, relax on the beach, or explore the scenic De Haan-Centrum.

How to Get There: De Haan can be reached by taking a train to Ostend and then hopping on the coastal tram, with the whole journey taking around 1.5 hours from Ghent.

Travel Tip: Rent a bike and explore the picturesque countryside surrounding De Haan.

Where to Stay: Grand Hotel Belle Vue exudes historic charm, while Hotel Astoria offers a more modern stay.

Where to Eat: Bistro Villa Julia is known for its fresh seafood and elegant atmosphere.

Lier

Lier is a hidden gem often overlooked by tourists, making it an ideal off-the-beaten-path destination. This small town boasts a beautiful beguinage, the Zimmer Tower with its unique astronomical clock, and peaceful riverside walks. Lier is also famous for its lace-making tradition, so be sure to visit the Lace Museum.

How to Get There: Reach Lier from Ghent by train in approximately 1.5 hours.

Travel Tip: Try the local specialty, Lierse vlaaikes, a delicious spiced pastry that's unique to the town.

Where to Stay: Hof van Aragon is a cozy hotel located in the heart of Lier, offering easy access to local attractions.

Where to Eat: Het Looks offers a delightful dining experience with a menu that highlights local ingredients.

Doel

Doel is an intriguing ghost town near the Port of Antwerp, known for its street art and abandoned buildings. It's a fascinating place for photographers and urban explorers. While the future of Doel is uncertain due to the expansion of the port, it remains a unique destination for a day trip.

How to Get There: The journey to Doel from Ghent involves a combination of train and bus travel, taking around 1.5 to 2 hours.

Travel Tip: Bring your camera to capture the haunting beauty of the street art and desolate landscapes.

Where to Stay: As Doel is mostly abandoned, it's best to stay in nearby Antwerp, where you can find a range of accommodations like the modern Hotel Banks.

Where to Eat: While dining options in Doel are limited, you can enjoy a meal at one of Antwerp's many restaurants, such as the popular De Pottekijker, known for its Belgian cuisine.

Villers-la-Ville Abbey

The ruins of Villers-la-Ville Abbey, located in the Walloon Brabant province, offer a peaceful retreat into history and nature. The impressive Cistercian abbey dates back to the 12th century and provides a picturesque setting for a day of exploration. Surrounded by woodlands, it's also a great spot for hiking and photography.

How to Get There: To get to Villers-la-Ville Abbey from Ghent, take a train to Charleroi and then a bus, with the total travel time being around 2 hours.

Travel Tip: Check the abbey's calendar for special events, including open-air theatre performances and concerts.

Where to Stay: Nearby, Martin's Klooster in Leuven offers a comfortable stay in a former convent, complete with modern amenities.

Where to Eat: L'Atelier de Bossimé is a short drive away and offers a farm-to-table dining experience with a focus on sustainability and local produce.

Whether you're seeking a cultural city break, a relaxing coastal retreat, or an unusual adventure, these weekend getaways from Ghent provide a diverse range of experiences for digital nomads looking to recharge and explore.