House of Alijn
A visit to Ghent is not complete without the House of Alijn, a museum that takes you back to everyday life in the 20th century. In the heart of the city, on Kraanlei, you will find this special place where memories come to life. Housed in a former children's hospital, the museum is now the place where young and old relive the past through interactive exhibitions, authentic objects and atmospheric rooms.
Whether you are travelling with the family or on a cultural city trip with your partner, the House of Alijn offers a unique experience full of nostalgia, recognition and wonder. Van der Valk Hotel Gent is the ideal base for a visit to this charming museum: comfortable accommodation, stylish dining and a short distance from the historic city centre.
What is the House of Alijn?
The House of Alijn is not a classical museum, but a lively place where everyday life of the past is central. In this city museum, you will discover how people lived, worked, celebrated and mourned in the twentieth century. Via authentic objects, sound fragments, short films and personal stories, you are taken through themes such as family, school, leisure and traditions.
This makes the museum particularly accessible and recognisable for all ages. Whether you are reminiscing about your own childhood or introducing your children to the lives of their grandparents, the House of Alijn brings the past to life in a warm and human way. The answer to the question ‘What is the House of Alijn?’ is therefore simple: a place full of stories that touch and connect.
House of Alijn in Ghent: an experience for young and old
The House of Alijn in Ghent captivates young and old in a unique way. Children explore colourful rooms, listen to old songs and discover games from the past. Thanks to interactive elements and a child-friendly audio tour, a museum visit becomes an educational and enjoyable experience for the whole family.
For parents and grandparents, on the other hand, the museum offers a touch of nostalgia - a look back at everyday customs, toys, television programmes and holidays that were once taken for granted. Moreover, there are regular temporary exhibitions, workshops and family activities that add an extra dimension to the visit. This makes the House of Alijn not just a cultural outing, but a true family activity in Ghent that connects and amazes.
Opening hours and practical info
The House of Alijn is located in the heart of the historic centre of Ghent, on the picturesque Kraanlei. This makes the museum easily accessible on foot or by public transport. For those coming by car, Van der Valk Hotel Gent offers an ideal base with ample parking. The museum is usually open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. Mondays the museum is closed.
For the most up-to-date House of Alijn opening hours, it is recommended to check the official website in advance. Tickets can be easily booked online or purchased on site. The museum offers various rates, including advantageous family packages and free entry for children under a certain age. Planning a visit during weekends or school holidays? If so, it is advisable to book your House of Alijn tickets early to ensure you have access.
Spend the night near the House of Alijn in Ghent
After an inspiring visit to the House of Alijn, it is great to come home to Van der Valk Hotel Gent. Our modern and child-friendly hotel is just 10 minutes from the historic city centre, making it the ideal base for your cultural excursion. Families enjoy spacious family rooms equipped with every comfort, while couples can retreat to stylish and relaxing rooms with city views.
Thanks to facilities such as an extensive breakfast buffet, atmospheric restaurants with children's menus and relaxation options such as sauna and fitness, you will effortlessly combine culture with comfort. After a day at the House of Alijn in Ghent, enjoy a relaxing evening and a refreshing night's sleep, ready for new discoveries in this vibrant city.