BeerWalk Ghent (English guide)

Explore Ghent’s Beer Heritage with a Guided Tour and Tastings

The BeerWalk Ghent tour offers a flavorful journey through Belgium’s storied beer culture, lasting approximately 3 hours for $53.47 per person. Led by an English-speaking guide, this small-group experience is limited to 15 participants, ensuring a personal and engaging atmosphere. With a rating of 5.0 based on 26 reviews, it’s a highly recommended way to discover local breweries and cherished beer cafes that many travelers often overlook.

Perfect for beer enthusiasts or curious travelers, this tour combines history, sampling, and local insights in a seamless way. The tour departs from The Glengarry and circles through some of Ghent’s most beloved spots, all while providing a generous number of tastings included in the price. While the tour is walker-friendly and accessible, it’s best suited for those who enjoy sampling craft beers and learning about Ghent’s brewing traditions firsthand.

Key Points

• Small-group experience with a maximum of 15 guests for a more personal vibe
• Includes a variety of beer tastings and visits to local breweries and cafes
• Guided by knowledgeable English-speaking hosts who share Ghent’s brewing stories
• Visits five distinct stops: from whisky bars to beer cafes and breweries
• Booking typically happens 46 days in advance at an affordable price of $53.47
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour

Starting Point at The Glengarry and the First Beer Stop

The tour begins at The Glengarry on Sint-Baafsplein 32. This spot is a genuine whisky bar with an impressive beer list, creating a warm, welcoming start to your beer journey. Here, participants enjoy meeting the guide and sampling their first craft beer, setting the tone for the rest of the tour.

The initial 25-minute stop offers free admission and an opportunity to relax while trying a delicious craft beer. The atmosphere is casual, making it easy to get comfortable with the group and prepare for the exploration ahead.

Visiting Huis van Alijn’s Scenic Terrace and Museum Cafe

Next, the tour moves to the Huis van Alijn, a historic museum with a charming interior garden and arguably one of Ghent’s best terraces. This 25-minute stop includes free admission and provides a scenic setting for a beer tasting. The ambiance here is authentic, emphasizing Ghent’s local charm and making it a highlight for visitors seeking a relaxed, picturesque setting.

This stop also offers a chance to enjoy one of the many tastings included, paired with the beautiful surroundings. It’s an ideal spot to soak in Ghent’s everyday life while savoring a local beer.

Sampling Special Beers at Barrazza Café

The third highlight is the Barrazza Café, a peaceful oasis right in Ghent’s center. In this 25-minute visit, the focus is on tasting speciality beers in a calm atmosphere. The café’s central location makes it accessible and perfect for sampling unique brews that showcase Ghent’s brewing creativity.

This stop enhances the tour’s relaxed pace while offering an opportunity to try beers that stand out for their craftsmanship. The setting encourages conversation and appreciation of Ghent’s beer scene beyond the usual options.

Touring Artevelde Brewery’s Production Space

Participants then visit the Artevelde Brewery, where they get a glimpse into local beer production. This 25-minute stop is free of charge, allowing for an up-close view of the brewing process. The guide shares insights into Ghent’s brewing traditions and what makes this brewery special.

While detailed specifics about the brewery’s operations are limited, this visit underscores Ghent’s commitment to craft beer and local production. It’s an authentic look into the city’s brewing heritage, appreciated by those interested in how beer is made.

Enjoying Beers at Aperotheek

The final stop is the Aperotheek, a venue dedicated to beer and aperitifs. Here, the group spends 25 minutes tasting more craft beers in a lively, inviting environment. It’s an ideal setting to enjoy the last tasting of the tour, often featuring local specialties.

This venue’s relaxed vibe leaves a lasting impression, reinforcing Ghent’s reputation for creative beer offerings. The guide may share tips on pairing or local favorites, making this a fitting conclusion to the tour.

All-Inclusive Beverages and No Hidden Fees

One of the tour’s strongest points is that all beverages, taxes, fees, and handling charges are included** in the price. Participants can enjoy a variety of beers, both at the stops and during tastings, without worrying about additional costs. This straightforward approach offers great value and transparency.

Since no extra expenses are expected, travelers can focus entirely on savoring Ghent’s beers and enjoying the stories behind each brew.

Practical Details: Meeting Point and Group Size

The meeting point at The Glengarry is easily accessible, located in the heart of Ghent. The tour is designed for most travelers, with a minimum drinking age of 18. It’s near public transportation, making it convenient to reach from different parts of the city.

With a maximum of 15 travelers, the small-group setting fosters friendly interaction and personalized attention from the guide. The tour concludes back at the starting point, leaving participants free to explore Ghent further or continue enjoying its vibrant beer culture.

Tour Flexibility and Cancellation Policy

Booking is flexible; free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, offering peace of mind. If plans change, travelers can cancel without penalty, provided they do so within the deadline. This makes the tour accessible for those with uncertain schedules.

Since the tour is popular—often booked 46 days in advance—early reservation is recommended to secure a spot on this well-regarded experience.

The Experience of the Guides and their Knowledge

Reviews highlight the engaging and welcoming nature of guides like Ariël Meeusen and Patric, who share in-depth knowledge about Ghent and its beer scene. Their storytelling and enthusiasm enhance the experience, making each stop more than just tasting but also learning about local brewing traditions.

Guests particularly appreciate how guides shift between venues seamlessly even when some spots are crowded, maintaining a lively and informative pace.

Unique Features That Set This Tour Apart

What truly distinguishes this BeerWalk Ghent is its focus on local favorites many travelers miss, including hidden cafes and small breweries. The tour balances beer tastings with cultural insights, providing a well-rounded experience for anyone interested in Ghent’s beer culture.

On top of that, the small group size and quality of stops make this tour stand out compared to larger, more generic beer tours. The inclusion of all beverages and no hidden costs provides excellent value for money.

Who Will Most Appreciate This Tour?

This experience suits beer lovers, history buffs, and local culture enthusiasts who want an authentic taste of Ghent’s brewing scene. It’s a great fit for those seeking a relaxed pace, in-depth stories from guides, and a chance to try rare or specialty beers.

However, it’s mainly geared toward adults over 18 who enjoy sampling alcohol and learning about beer craftsmanship. The tour’s duration and walking distance are manageable for most, but those with mobility concerns should consider this.

Final Thoughts on the Ghent BeerWalk

The BeerWalk Ghent offers an engaging, informative tour with a focus on local beer culture and craftsmanship. The small-group format and inclusive tastings make it a cost-effective and friendly way to explore Ghent’s breweries and cafes.

While it provides a rich beer experience, it remains accessible and flexible, with easy logistics and free cancellation. Perfect for those looking to enjoy Ghent’s beer in a relaxed, social setting with guides who know their stuff.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the BeerWalk Ghent tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours.

How much does the tour cost?
The price is $53.47 per person, including all tastings and fees.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at The Glengarry at Sint-Baafsplein 32 and ends back at the same location.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, the minimum drinking age is 18 years.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour involves walking between stops, but specific accessibility details are not provided.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

What types of beers are included?
The tour features a variety of craft beers, specialty brews, and local favorites.

Are the stops crowded or intimate?
The small-group size ensures a more personal and engaging experience.

Is food included in this tour?
No, food is not included; the tour focuses on beer tastings.

Do I need to make advance reservations?
Yes, booking is recommended, as the tour is often booked 46 days in advance.