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. 

1️⃣ 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

2️⃣ 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

Ghent has an extensive and reliable tram and bus network, operated by De Lijn.

  • Both conference venues are easily accessible by public transport
  • Frequent connections between Gent-Sint-Pieters station, the city center, and Technologiepark Zwijnaarde
  • Route planning is available via the De Lijn website or mobile app

🚗 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.