Erasmus Hotel

We wanted to stay somewhere 'traditional' for our two days in Ghent. The Erasmus Hotel certainly embodied much of what we were looking for. The house retains many of its original features and is full of antiques and paintings of interest. Prominent among these is an early printed text of work by the eponymous Dutch humanist. Peter, whom we understood to be the nephew of the owner, is a refined, intelligent and courteous host who is happy to explain the provenance of the house and all that is in it. The breakfasts are great!

Recently stayed for two nights. Hotel full of character and genuine period features. Peter your host and owner extremely helpful. Calm and discrete presence in the hotel. I will stay in those amazing double bedrooms at the rear next time. Excellent location minutes from old town. Carpark 3 minutes walk. Competitive price.

Overall, this hotel disappointed me greatly. I had chosen it partly because it was advertised as being convenient to public transit. Not so. The #1 tram, which my reservation confirmation mentioned as an easy way to reach the hotel, has been out of service for a while now and will remain so for the next four years while the city renovates the route. Yet the hotel's final communication with me, just before my arrival, failed to mention this. This caused me no end of trouble. But it was also typical; I never felt that I was in a hospitable hotel where anyone cared about my comfort or convenience or even whether I enjoyed my stay. The proprietor, who does everything from making the beds to setting out the breakfast to staffing the office, gave the impression that beyond his considerable responsibilities, he had no time or energy for anything but the absolute minimum. Luckily, the people of Ghent welcome visitors, and it was thanks to them that I enjoyed the city at all. Despite the physical signs of wear and tear, the Erasmus Hotel has some charm. One afternoon, I was returning from a museum visit and heard someone play the antique organ on the premises, and someone singing lieder to it. I've also never eaten breakfast in the shadow of a suit of armor. Nevertheless, I wish I'd stayed somewhere else.

This hotel is an historic experience of its own in the wonderful city of Ghent. Alternative to one of the usual generic hotels - simply oozes character with the old internal wood / features and dining room. Note - Would image access may be an issue for the less physically able The proprietor was supper helpful and friendly. Location is perfect with bars restaurants and sights either adjacent or a few minutes walk. Stayed during a motorcycle trip around Europe with a friend but will definitely return with my wife.

As other have already stated this is a place where you step back in time. We found out this the hotel was originally a trader’s house and in it’s more recent history owned by an antiques dealer; hence the abundance of antique furniture and artifacts. We had I believe the largest room which was lovely. If you are looking for modern, this is not the place for you, if you are looking for a place that is interesting and with character, this is a place for you. A great central location to allow you to explore Ghent that is also quiet. We really enjoyed our stay here.