Hostel Uppelink

Hostel Uppelink is Ghent's highest-rated hostel, occupying a historic building at Sint-Michielsplein 21 — the square overlooking Sint-Michielsbrug, one of Ghent's most photographed viewpoints, with panoramic sight lines across the medieval towers of Sint-Niklaaskerk, the Belfry, and Sint-Baafskathedraal. The hostel's position places the entire historic centre of Ghent within walking distance, with the Graslei and Korenlei canal quays, Gravensteen castle, and the Patershol restaurant district all reachable in under ten minutes on foot.

The property offers a mixture of dormitory beds in shared rooms — available in mixed and female-only configurations — and a smaller number of private rooms for couples or individuals preferring more privacy. Dormitory rooms range from four-bed to larger configurations; all beds are equipped with individual reading lights, power sockets, and personal locker space. Private rooms are simply furnished but well-maintained and share bathroom facilities on each floor.

A communal kitchen provides full cooking facilities including hobs, a microwave, refrigerator, and basic cookware, allowing guests to self-cater and manage food costs during longer stays. Ghent's many excellent restaurants offer an alternative for those who prefer to eat out, with the Vrijdagmarkt and Patershol neighbourhood offering everything from traditional waterzooi to international cuisine across a range of price points. The hostel's common room provides a relaxed setting for travellers to socialise and exchange itinerary recommendations.

Hostel Uppelink's staff are known for their knowledgeable approach to guiding visitors around Ghent's attractions and lesser-known corners. Bike rental is available, and staff can advise on cycling routes along the River Leie and the broader East Flanders network. Luggage storage is provided for guests arriving before check-in or departing after check-out, allowing flexible exploration of the city on travel days.

The hostel suits independent travellers, solo visitors, and small groups visiting Ghent for its cultural calendar. The annual Ghent Festivities in July draw hundreds of thousands of visitors, and Uppelink's central location and modest prices make it a popular base during this period. Early booking is strongly recommended for summer visits.