The conference will take place in Ghent, Belgium. As can be found on Tripadvisor “Ghent's city center is a pedestrian area that is like a museum to early Flemish architecture and a testament to the city's medieval might. Impressive Gothic sites, such as dramatic St. Bavo's Cathedral and the Castle of the Counts, inspire awe.” Not convinced? Read what you can do in 48 hours in Ghent in this article.

In order to encourage networking and lively discussions, we aim only at in person presentations (i.e. no possibility to join online). 

The RILEM Spring Convention 2026 will take place across two Ghent University campuses. 

1 Technologiepark Zwijnaarde – Faculty of Engineering and Architecture

The first two days of the conference are dedicated to RILEM Technical Committee meetings and will take place at the Faculty of Engineering and Architecture on the Technologiepark Zwijnaarde campus.

This modern campus offers state-of-the-art lecture halls, excellent technical facilities, and a green, open environment just outside the historic city center.

Address:
Faculty of Engineering and Architecture – Ghent University
Technologiepark-Zwijnaarde 60
9052 Ghent, Belgium

2 Tweekerken Campus – Ghent City Center

The remaining three days of the conference, including the main scientific program and keynote lectures, will be held at the Tweekerken Campus in the historic city center of Ghent.

This campus is located in a restored heritage complex and is within walking distance of major landmarks, hotels, restaurants, and cultural attractions.

Address:
Tweekerkenstraat 2
9000 Ghent, Belgium

 

 How to Get There

 By Air

  • Brussels Airport (BRU) – approx. 65 km
    Ghent can be reached by train from the airport in about 1 hour.
  • Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL) – approx. 90 km
    Train connection to Ghent via Brussels.

By Train

Gent-Sint-Pieters is the main railway station of Ghent and offers direct connections from Brussels, Antwerp, Bruges, and international high-speed train services via Brussels.

From Gent-Sint-Pieters station:

  • To Technologiepark Zwijnaarde: tram or bus, or taxi (approx. 15 minutes)
  • To Tweekerken Campus: tram or bus to the city center (approx. 10 minutes)

Public Transport in Ghent

The Technology Park Zwijnaarde is easily accessible by public transport from Ghent St Peter’s railway station, the city’s main transport hub.

By bus

From Ghent St Peter’s Station, several De Lijn bus services offer a direct connection to Technology Park Zwijnaarde. The most convenient options are:

  • Bus 48 and Bus 49 – direct services with frequent departures, stopping at Zwijnaarde Technologiepark / Campus
  • Bus 50 – direction Zwijnaarde Technologiepark
  • Bus 70 – direction Zwijnaarde Technologiepark (stops directly at the campus)

All these buses depart from platforms 6 or 7 at Ghent St Peter’s Station and stop within walking distance of the Technology Park. Typical travel time is 10–15 minutes, depending on the line and stop. 

By tram

  • Tram T3 departs from platform 17 at Ghent St Peter’s Station and stops at Zwijnaarde Molen.
    From there, the Technology Park can be reached on foot or by a short bus ride.

Campus Tweekerken is located close to the city centre of Ghent and is very easily accessible from Ghent St Peter’s railway station.

On foot

Campus Tweekerken is at walking distance from the railway station.

  • Walking time: approximately 10–15 minutes
  • A straightforward route via Sint-Pietersnieuwstraat

This is often the fastest and most convenient option.

By bus

Several De Lijn bus lines connect Ghent St Peter’s Station with stops along Sint-Pietersnieuwstraat and Overpoortstraat, both within a short walking distance of Campus Tweekerken.

Buses depart frequently from the station, with a typical travel time of 5–10 minutes, depending on traffic and the chosen stop.

Practical tips

  • Tickets for bus and tram are interchangeable within the De Lijn network.
  • For real-time timetables and route planning, we recommend using the De Lijn app or website.

By Car & Parking

Technologiepark Zwijnaarde

  • Accessible via the E40 and E17 motorways
  • On-site paying parking available on campus

Tweekerken Campus

  • Located in the historic city center of Ghent
  • Nearest carpark: Sint-Pieters-plein
  • Public transport or walking is strongly recommended

Low Emission Zone (LEZ):
The city center of Ghent, including the Tweekerken Campus, is located within a Low Emission Zone. Visitors arriving by car should check access regulations in advance.

Accessibility

Both conference venues provide:

  • Step-free access to main buildings
  • Elevators in multi-storey buildings
  • Accessible restrooms

Participants with specific accessibility needs are encouraged to contact the local organizing committee in advance.