Ghent: Beer and Sightseeing Adventure

Discover Ghent on a 4-Hour Beer and Sightseeing Tour for $101

The Ghent: Beer and Sightseeing Adventure is a 4-hour guided experience that combines the best of Ghent’s culture, history, and local drinks. Priced at $101 per person, this tour offers a deep dive into the city’s authentic atmosphere through a mix of walking, tastings, and visits to key sites. The tour departs from Saint Bavo’s Cathedral at 2PM, making it an ideal afternoon activity for travelers eager to explore without feeling rushed.

Led by a knowledgeable guide, the tour includes two beer tastings at Stadsbrewery, three additional beers at hidden taverns, a chocolate tasting at Chocolaterie Vanhoverbeke, and a gin tasting of Geneva gin. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a blend of culinary delights, history, and local secrets, though it does not include hotel transfers or large luggage.

We like how this tour balances cultural sightseeing with flavorful local experiences, making it ideal for visitors who want an authentic taste of Ghent’s famous beers, chocolates, and spirits. Keep in mind, the tour involves walking and standing, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Those interested in a leisurely, in-depth exploration of Ghent’s hidden taverns and off-the-beaten-path spots will find this especially rewarding.

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Key Points

• Price: $101 per person, covering 4 hours of guided activities.
• Highlights: Includes 2 beer tastings at Stadsbrewery, 3 beers at local taverns, a chocolate tasting, and a gin tasting.
• Location: Starts and ends at Saint Bavo’s Cathedral in Ghent’s historic center.
• Guide: Led by Eddy, known for providing engaging, factual commentary with humor.
• Unique Features: Visits authentic taverns hidden within Ghent’s streets, offering a local experience beyond typical tourist spots.

Starting at Saint Bavo’s Cathedral in Ghent’s Heart

The tour begins right in front of Saint Bavo’s Cathedral at 2PM, with guides easily recognizable by their black or blue jackets bearing the company’s logo. This central meeting point makes it simple to join from nearby accommodations or other city explorations. The cathedral itself, famed for the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb painting, sets a fitting scene for the start of this cultural journey.

From this prime location, the guide Eddy provides an overview of Ghent’s theater and Belfry Tower, setting the scene for the city’s rich history and architecture. The initial walk through this lively part of town introduces visitors to Ghent’s enduring local character despite its popularity among travelers.

Chocolate Tasting at Chocolaterie Vanhoverbeke

One of the first stops is Chocolaterie Vanhoverbeke, where three chocolates made from Peruvian and Madagascan cacao beans await. This chocolate tasting offers a delicious introduction to Ghent’s sweet side and its appreciation for high-quality confections. The chocolates are crafted with top cacao beans, ensuring a rich flavor experience that pairs well with the upcoming beer tastings.

This visit provides a chance to learn about the craftsmanship behind Belgian chocolates, making it a favorite for visitors who enjoy culinary culture. The chocolates are a good way to pause and savor before moving on to the city’s beer scene.

Visiting Ghent’s Local Breweries and the Stadsbrewery

Ghent hosts two breweries in the city center, known for using gruut instead of traditional hops, which gives their beers a distinctive twist. The tour includes an introduction to the brewing process at Stadsbrewery, where two beer tastings are offered alongside snacks.

This part of the tour is especially appealing for beer enthusiasts interested in the difference that gruut makes in flavor profiles. The guide ensures factual explanations and makes the experience accessible and engaging. The brewery visit highlights Ghent’s local brewing traditions and offers a taste of the city’s craft beer scene.

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Exploring Ghent’s Old Port and Castle of the Counts

After the brewery visit, the tour proceeds to the old port of Ghent, a scenic area lined with gilded houses and the Castle of the Counts of Flanders. This spot provides picturesque views and a chance to appreciate Ghent’s medieval architecture. The port’s waterside atmosphere contrasts nicely with the lively brewery scenes, offering a peaceful setting to absorb the city’s history.

The castle itself adds a layer of historical intrigue, anchoring the walk in Ghent’s long-standing significance as a trading and political hub. This stop enriches the tour with visual storytelling about Ghent’s past.

Sampling Geneva Gin in a Waterside Tavern

A highlight of the adventure is a visit to one of Ghent’s small, waterside taverns, where Geneva gin is sampled. This spirit, less commonly featured in typical tourist itineraries, provides a unique local flavor paired with snacks. The tavern’s setting along the water’s edge makes it a charming stop for relaxing and taking in Ghent’s quiet side.

The guide’s expertise ensures everyone understands the nuances of Geneva gin, adding depth to the tasting experience. This visit illustrates Ghent’s diverse beverage culture, extending beyond beer and chocolate.

Visiting Hidden Taverns for More Local Beers

The final part of the tour features three additional beers served at underground or lesser-known taverns scattered across the city’s center. These establishments are typically off-limits to casual travelers, offering an authentic look at Ghent’s local drinking spots. Each beer is paired with local snacks, enhancing the tasting experience.

The taverns’ secretive nature makes this segment especially appealing for those wanting to discover Ghent’s hidden nightlife. The guide ensures the group’s experience remains engaging and informative, emphasizing local customs and behind-the-scenes stories.

Practicalities and Group Experience

The tour is designed for comfortable walking, with meeting and ending points at Saint Bavo’s Cathedral. The group size tends to be moderate, with up to 13 participants, allowing for personalized attention. Eddy, the guide, is praised for balancing humor and factual knowledge, making the experience both informative and entertaining.

Since there’s no hotel pickup or large luggage accommodation, travelers should wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a fair amount of walking. The tour operates in English and Dutch, with a focus on clear communication for all participants.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour the Most?

This experience appeals to beer lovers, chocolate enthusiasts, and history buffs looking for an authentic taste of Ghent’s local spirit. Visitors who appreciate hidden spots and small taverns will find this tour especially rewarding. The 4-hour duration makes it manageable for most travelers, although those sensitive to walking should prepare accordingly.

While the tour is rich in culinary and cultural highlights, it’s not suited for travelers seeking a more relaxed or wheelchair-accessible experience, as it involves walking and standing.

Final Thoughts on the Ghent Beer and Sightseeing Adventure

The Ghent tour offers a well-rounded exploration of the city’s beers, chocolates, and historic sites in just four hours. Its strength lies in authentic visits to hidden taverns and local breweries, combined with engaging storytelling from guide Eddy. The quality of tastings, from chocolates to Genever gin, elevates the experience beyond typical city tours.

The $101 price covers a broad range of delicious experiences and insightful commentary, making it a good value for those interested in Ghent’s culinary scene. The tour’s focus on local establishments and off-the-beaten-path spots ensures a genuine, immersive visit to this captivating Belgian city.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include transportation between stops?
No, the tour is a walking experience beginning and ending at Saint Bavo’s Cathedral.

Are the tastings suitable for children?
The tour features alcoholic beverages and is designed for adults. It’s best for travelers 21 and over.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Since it involves walking and standing, it may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.

What should I wear for the tour?
Comfortable shoes are recommended due to the walking involved. No luggage or large bags are allowed.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance. Bookings are flexible with the pay later option.

Is the guide available in languages other than English?
Yes, the tour is offered in English and Dutch.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby