Expat Transport Guide: Getting Around Ghent

Transportation Overview

Ghent scores 4.0/5 for public transportation, with a cost of living rating of 3.0/5. Budget for approximately 18 transportation-related costs including transit passes and vehicle expenses.

Ghent offers a well-developed, sustainable transportation network that prioritizes cycling and public transit over cars. The city has transformed its mobility approach with a Circulation Plan implemented in 2017, dividing the city center into six sectors and a car-free zone. This has significantly reduced car traffic while enhancing public transportation efficiency and cycling infrastructure.

Quick Stats

Transport Score

4.0 /5

Cost of Living

3.0 /5

Weather Score

3.0 /5

Cost Items

Estimated Costs

One-Time Costs

$6,130

Monthly Costs

$1,373/mo

Sample Costs

Full Breakdown →

One-Time

Driving License Conversion $45

Driving License New $850

International Driving Permit $20

Monthly

Public Transport Pass Adult $58/mo

Public Transport Pass Child $35/mo

Car Rental Monthly $650/mo

Showing 6 of 18 costs — sign up to see all

Want to See Your Numbers?

Get personalized transportation costs, timelines, and checklists for your family in Ghent.

Free to start. No credit card required.

Practical Tips

Buy De Lijn bus passes at Press Shop stores

they often have shorter queues than official points and same prices

Use Blue-bike sharing from Sint-Pieters station

cheaper than city bikes and more reliable availability

Park at Park & Ride Gentbrugge during weekdays

offers free parking and frequent tram connections to center

Download the 4411 parking app

most used in Ghent and offers better rates than other parking apps

Useful Links

De Lijn - Flanders Public Transport

Official public transportation company for Ghent and Flanders with routes, timetables, ticket information, and mobile apps for navigation.

›

City of Ghent - Mobility

Municipal mobility portal with information on cycling infrastructure, pedestrian zones, public transport, and Ghent's circulation plan.

›

Belgian Rail (NMBS/SNCB)

National railway service with train schedules, ticket purchasing, and information about connections between Ghent and other Belgian cities.

›

Federal Mobility Department - Driving License

Official government site with information on driving license requirements, exchanging foreign licenses, and traffic regulations in Belgium.

›

Ghent-Sint-Pieters Station

Information about Ghent's main railway station, including facilities, connections, and transportation links to other parts of the city.

›

Explore Other Guides

Immigration Guide Housing Guide Education Guide Healthcare Guide Finance Guide Pets Guide

Transportation Guides in Belgium

Antwerp

Bruges

Brussels

View all 140+ city guides →

Frequently Asked Questions

Public transportation in Ghent includes buses, metro, trams, and other transit options. Coverage and frequency vary by neighborhood. Use ReloPlanner to see detailed transport scores for each area.

Whether you need a car in Ghent depends on your neighborhood and lifestyle. Create a free ReloPlanner account to compare transportation costs and options for your specific situation.

There are approximately 18 transportation-related costs to consider when moving to Ghent, including both one-time and recurring expenses. Create a free ReloPlanner account to see the full personalized cost breakdown.

Plan Your Entire Move to Ghent

Access step-by-step guides, personalized budgets, and expert tips for transportation and 6 other relocation categories across 140+ cities.

Free to start. No credit card required.

Data verified: March 2026

This was the general picture

Your move to Ghent looks nothing like this

This guide covers Ghent for everyone. Your plan covers your origin country, your kids' ages, your budget, your dog — with real costs, a sequenced task list, and the things most families don't find out until it's too late.

Build your personalised plan — free →

Takes 2 minutes to set up