zone 1 city zone 2 perimeter
The best alternative offcourse is to find accommodation in the city center of Ghent. Unfortunately this will be hard to find for big groups. Below you can find the available options, if you don't fear hostels, B&B's, ... also check out the alternatives. Some accommodations are close to the city center but not easy to reach by public transport, if your group has their own cars these accommodations are perfect!
You want to stay in Ghent but don't need all comforts of a hotel? The city can offer you plenty alternatives. In this list you find campings, airBnB's, Bed and breakfasts, youth hostels, ...
Just outside the city center but within a range of 20K there are some nice sleeping accommodations, own transportation however is recommended since these accommodations are not easy to reach by public transport.