Ghent: Discover Belgium’s Beer World with a Young Local

Ghent: Discover Belgium’s Beer World with a Young Local

Imagine wandering through the medieval streets of Ghent, stopping at lively bars and hidden gems, all while learning about Belgium’s revered brewing traditions. For $73 per person, this 3-hour beer tasting tour offers a chance to explore a city famous for its rich beer culture and vibrant social scene. Led by a passionate local guide, you’ll sample a variety of beers—ranging from well-known brands to crafty small-batch brews—while soaking up the authentic atmosphere of Ghent’s historic bars.

What we love about this experience is its interactive approach: tasting different beers, discovering their flavors, and pairing them with artisan chocolates and local delicacies. The tour also includes a fun beer game that guarantees laughs and shared moments. Plus, the chance to walk through Ghent’s medieval streets and visit bars that range from modern trendsetters to traditional taverns really captures the city’s diverse beer culture.

A potential consideration is the group size and pace—the tour can include up to 15 people, which might feel a little busy for some, especially if you prefer a more intimate experience. Also, since the tour is focused on beer and food, it might not be ideal for those under 18 or with mobility issues, as it’s not wheelchair accessible and involves some walking between bars.

This tour is perfect for beer enthusiasts, food lovers, and travelers eager to understand Ghent’s local tavern culture. If you enjoy pairing drinks with local flavors and hearing entertaining stories from guides who know their city well, you’ll find this a worthwhile addition to your visit.

Key Points

• Authentic Experiences: Visits to hidden bars and traditional Belgian taverns.
• Food & Drink Pairings: Chocolate, local delicacies, and artisan treats complement the beers.
• Learn & Laugh: Engaging guide with stories about Belgium’s beer history and a fun beer game.
• Variety of Beers: From malty and hoppy to sour and tripel, offering something for every palate.
• Special Beers: End with Trappist and Lambic brews, paired with chocolates.
• Flexible & Informative: Brief history of Ghent’s landmarks along the way, perfect for first-time visitors.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive Into the Ghent Beer Tour Experience

The Beginning: Meeting Your Guide and Setting Off

Your tour starts at OOOST, a well-loved shop on Goudenleeuwplein. From there, your guide—who has a genuine passion for Belgian beer—leads you on a walk through Ghent’s charming streets. We appreciated how the guide seamlessly combined beer facts with stories about the city’s history, making the walk both entertaining and educational.

Chocolate and Beer: A Perfect Pairing

Before hopping into the first bar, you’ll stop at a favorite chocolate shop. This isn’t just about tasting sweets—it’s about understanding how Belgian chocolates and beers are meant to complement each other. We loved the mini chocolate pairing, which enhanced the beer tasting and revealed how different flavors interact. One reviewer noted that this pairing was a “nice touch,” adding depth to the tasting experience.

Bar-Hopping Through Ghent’s Diverse Venues

The tour hits three bars, each with its own unique vibe. The first is one of Ghent’s most popular, buzzing with locals and travelers alike. Here, the group sampled their initial beer and exchanged impressions—an informal, convivial start. The guide’s knowledge shines here, as you learn about the different styles and brewing techniques behind each glass.

Next, you visit a local favorite, known only to those in-the-know. These bars span from trendy modern venues to medieval-style taverns, offering a genuine feel of Ghent’s diverse beer culture. We loved the variety, especially the chance to try craft beers alongside larger brands. One guest shared, “The selected bars were good, and the guide’s knowledge was impressive,” which echoes the overall positive feedback.

More Great Tours Nearby

Tasting the Flavors: Malty, Hoppy, Sour, and More

Throughout the tour, you’ll sample five (or six, if you opt for the extra Ghent option) 15cl beers, covering a spectrum of styles. From malty and fruity brews to sour Lambics and Tripels, there’s a wide range of flavors to explore. The last stop usually offers a tasting of Trappist and Lambic beers, which are highly prized in Belgium. These are paired with Belgian chocolates and local delicacies, giving a full sensory experience.

The Fun Beer Game and Final Tips

One highlight that makes this tour memorable is the beer game, which guarantees laughs and friendly competition. It’s a lighthearted way to deepen your appreciation for the different beer styles. The guide wraps up the experience with some recommendations on where to continue bar-hopping, helping you make the most of your time in Ghent.

What’s the Value?

At roughly $73—considering the tastings, visits, and local insights—this tour offers solid value. Reviews mention that some found it a tad expensive, especially with a larger group. However, the quality of the guide, the authentic venues, and the pairing experiences justify the cost for many. It’s a chance to enjoy Ghent’s beer scene without the hassle of figuring out where to go on your own.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience suits beer lovers and curious travelers eager to learn about Belgian brewing traditions. If you enjoy tasting and pairing local flavors, and want a behind-the-scenes look at Ghent’s bar culture, you’ll find plenty to enjoy. The tour is also perfect for those who appreciate guided insights and lively social atmospheres.

However, if you’re seeking a very private or slow-paced experience, or if you have mobility restrictions, you might prefer other options. Also, note that the tour is not suitable for children under 18 and is not wheelchair accessible, due to the nature of venues and walking involved.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For anyone interested in Belgian beer, local cuisine, and Ghent’s lively bar culture, this tour offers a well-rounded and engaging experience. You’ll learn about Belgium’s beer history in a relaxed, friendly setting, enjoying tastings that cover a wide range of flavors. The guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge shine through, making it more than just a tasting—it’s a culture.

The chance to visit hidden bars and traditional taverns ensures you see a side of Ghent that many visitors miss. Plus, the pairing of chocolates and local delicacies adds a memorable touch, appealing to foodies and casual drinkers alike.

If you’re after an authentic, fun, and educational way to spend part of your day in Ghent, this beer tour could be just the ticket. It’s a fantastic way to connect with the city’s social fabric, learn about its brewing traditions, and enjoy some excellent drinks along the way.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, with multiple stops for tastings and exploration.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins in front of OOOST at Goudenleeuwplein 3 and finishes back at the same meeting point.

Are there options for private groups?
Yes, private group tours are available, ideal for larger parties or those seeking a more personalized experience.

What languages are available?
Guides speak English, Dutch, and French. The tour will be in English unless only Dutch speakers are present.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it is not suitable for guests under 18 years.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off; you meet directly at the designated starting point.

In short, this Ghent beer tour combines local flavor, lively social settings, and educational insights into Belgium’s beloved brewing heritage. It’s perfect for those wanting to taste their way through Ghent’s best bars, learn about beer, and enjoy the city’s warm, convivial spirit.

You can check availability for your dates here: