Hotel Carlton

Housed in a six-story building that resembles an apartment complex, the Hotel Carlton has the look and vibe of a small boutique property. It’s surrounded by a relatively quiet residential neighborhood with cars parked on both sides of the tree-lined street immediately outside the hotel. Entering the hotel is like walking into a cozy private living room. A small, three-stool bar sits adjacent to a colorful striped couch and coffee table under the large, floor-to-ceiling window that looks out onto the street. The natural light streaming from the window allows the lobby’s many potted plants to flourish. Cut flowers also brighten the darkly decorated space, as does colorful modern artwork. The narrow hall with dark hardwood floors leads past a small, modest check-in area to a tasteful dining area where dark brown leather chairs and white linen tablecloths, china and silverware adorn the tables. An adjacent elevator and utility-type interior staircase lead up to the guest rooms. Everything on the street level is in a compact, intimate area that encourages friendly interaction between guests and staff. Being away from the bustle of tourists in Old Town makes it a quiet oasis.

Ghent’s main railway hub, the Ghent-Sint-Pieters station, is a two-minute walk from the Hotel Carlton, as is the tram stop that provides service to the city’s historic Old Town, where popular attractions like Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, Belfry Tower and the Castle of the Counts reside. The tram takes about five minutes to Old Town, which is a 15- to 20-minute walk from the hotel. Ghent’s Museum of Modern Art and Museum of Fine Art are less than a 10-minute walk, as are the ICC Convention Centre and Citadelpark. Various shops, cafes and restaurants surround the hotel. The Ghent Airport is about a 12-minute drive away, depending on traffic.

Rooms are clean, quiet, and spacious by European standards with big windows that open and offer views of residential rooftops. Standard Double and Triple Rooms have the same decor and layout, with the Triple having a third bed wedged next to the desk under the window. Dark-wood furniture and headboards accent the cream-colored walls, giving the rooms a contemporary feel, though some furnishings look slightly worn. High-end amenities include large closets, terrycloth robes, 22-inch flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, bottled water, minibars, media plug-ins, and coffeemakers. Tiled bathrooms have shower/tub combos with a glazed, partial shower door plus hairdryers, toiletries, and attractive vessel sinks. 

The Deluxe Double Rooms on the top floor really stand out, with living and bedroom areas separated by a partial, curved wall. Both spaces have large flat-screen TVs recessed into the wall. It also includes an outdoor terrace that offers lounge chairs, a table with an umbrella, potted plants, and excellent city views. The beautiful bathroom is highlighted by a tub perched on a white marble platform below a large window with a shower separated by a frosted glass wall. Pet rooms are available. There is no air-conditioning but fans are provided.

Secure, off-street parking is offered in a garage under the hotel, and there's free parking on the street outside the hotel for those who can find it. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property. The full breakfast with cooked-to-order eggs and freshly baked pastries is a hit with guests, but it’s not included in the room rate. The hotel also can provide a lunch to go upon request. The small lobby bar is well stocked and offers drinks throughout the day. Tram tickets for service to Old Town can be obtained at the hotel, which offers guests a safe deposit box that’s located in the lobby.