Taste of Ghent: A Private Chocolate Walking Tour

Taste of Ghent: A Private Chocolate Walking Tour is a delightful way to spend a couple of hours soaking in the city’s sweet reputation. For $453 per group (up to two people), you’ll explore Ghent’s historic center while sampling some of Belgium’s finest chocolates. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, this tour combines culinary indulgence with sightseeing, making it ideal for those with a sweet tooth and an interest in authentic Belgian treats.

What we particularly love about this experience is how it balances quality visits to renowned chocolate artisans—like Chocolatier Deduytschaever and Chocolaterie Vandenbouhede—with a relaxed walk through Ghent’s picturesque streets. The stops at Frituur Vrijdagmarkt for Belgian fries and Confiserie Temmerman also add a savory touch to the otherwise sweet journey. The tour’s intimate private setting ensures personalized attention and an unhurried pace, perfect for those who prefer a more tailored experience.

One possible consideration is the price point, which might seem high for some travelers, especially when compared to group tours. However, the private nature and curated visits to multiple chocolate shops provide a significant sense of exclusivity.

This experience is best suited for food lovers who want a taste of Ghent’s culinary culture, couples celebrating a special occasion, or travelers seeking an authentic, relaxed way to explore the city’s chocolate heritage. If you enjoy hands-on tasting experiences paired with sightseeing, this tour offers a memorable way to enjoy Ghent.

Key Points

• Exclusive private tour with a knowledgeable local guide
• Visits to top chocolatiers including Deduytschaever and Vandenbouhede
• Tasting a variety of Belgian chocolates along the way
• Includes savory bites like Belgian fries at Frituur Vrijdagmarkt
• 2-hour walking experience through Ghent’s charming city center
• Flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Chocolate Tour Experience

Starting Point and Overall Vibe

The tour begins at Chocolatier Deduytschaever, a renowned local shop where we meet our guide in front of the storefront. From the start, the focus is on personalized service—a private group makes a big difference in how relaxed and engaged the experience feels. The atmosphere is friendly and informal, setting the tone for an enjoyable journey through Ghent’s sweet spots.

Visiting Ghent’s Top Chocolatiers

The heart of this experience lies in the visits to local chocolate artisans. The guide arranges a guided tour at Vandenbouhede—just 10 minutes—where you get a behind-the-scenes look at the craftsmanship involved in creating Belgian chocolates. According to reviews, the guide’s insights and stories about the chocolatier’s history and techniques add depth to the tasting experience.

Next, you’ll stop at Chocolaterie Luc Van Hoorebeke, another family-run hotel known for its handmade chocolates. Here, the guide ensures you savor the distinct flavors and textures, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions or simply admire the artistry involved.

Sampling and Tasting

The main attraction of this tour is undoubtedly the chocolate tastings. You’ll sample an array of exquisite Belgian chocolates, from classic pralines to more innovative confections. The guide’s expertise helps you understand what makes Belgian chocolates famous—like their high-quality ingredients and precise production methods.

One aspect that reviewers mention positively is how the samples are generous, allowing you to really appreciate the craftsmanship. It’s a genuine treat for the palate, especially considering the variety of flavors from each chocolatier.

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Savory and Traditional Belgian Sweets

Adding variety, the tour stops at Frituur Vrijdagmarkt for some crispy Belgian fries—an authentic and savory contrast to the sweet tastings. The guide describes how fries are a Belgian staple, and while it’s a quick stop, it provides a satisfying break and a taste of local street food culture.

At Confiserie Temmerman, you’ll sample traditional confections, offering a different kind of sweet experience. This not only broadens your understanding of Belgian sweets but also highlights the diversity of local treats beyond chocolates.

Exploring Ghent’s City Center and Atmosphere

The last part of the tour takes you through Kraanlei and Ghent’s historic center, where you can enjoy your sweet discoveries amid charming canals, medieval buildings, and vibrant streets. The guide provides contextual commentary on Ghent’s history and architecture, making it a well-rounded cultural experience.

What the Reviews Say

Travelers appreciate the personalized attention of a private guide and the quality of the chocolate samples. One reviewer mentions, “We loved the way the guide explained the differences between chocolates and took us to artisan shops.” Others highlight the balance of walking, tasting, and sightseeing as ideal for a short visit.

Practical Details

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, with a flexible starting time based on availability. It’s designed for small, private groups, ensuring a more intimate experience. The meeting point is conveniently located in front of the initial chocolatier, and the tour ends back at the starting location, making logistics straightforward.

Is It Worth the Cost?

While $453 for a two-hour private experience may seem steep, consider what’s included: personalized guiding, visits to top local chocolatiers, and generous tastings. If you value quality over quantity and prefer a private, curated experience, many find this price justified. It’s a chance to indulge without the crowds, learning about Belgian chocolates from passionate artisans.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for couples, small groups, and those who want an exclusive, relaxed way to explore Ghent. It’s especially suited for foodies eager to learn about Belgian chocolate craftsmanship firsthand. If you’re looking for a romantic experience or a culinary highlight during your trip, this is a tasty way to do it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Since the tour involves tasting chocolates and possibly some walking, children who enjoy sweets and are comfortable walking should find it enjoyable. However, it’s primarily geared toward adults.

How long is the walking portion?
The tour is approximately 2 hours total, with the walking mainly happening between stops around Ghent’s city center.

Are the chocolate samples included in the price?
Yes, all tastings are included as part of the tour. You’ll sample a variety of Belgian chocolates at multiple stops.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as there’s walking involved in exploring Ghent’s streets and visiting multiple shops.

Does the tour operate in languages other than English?
The guide speaks English, which is specified in the activity details.

Is it suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
The tour focuses on traditional chocolates and sweets, so if you have allergies or dietary restrictions, it’s best to inquire directly.

Is this a group or private experience?
It’s a private tour for your group, ensuring a personalized experience.

How many stops are there?
There are seven stops: including chocolate shops, a street food stop, and a scenic walk through the city.

What happens if I need to cancel last minute?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If canceling within that window, refunds won’t apply.

In brief, this Taste of Ghent private chocolate tour offers a sweet, engaging way to explore the city’s culinary and historic charms. It’s best suited for those who appreciate quality, craftsmanship, and a personalized touch. While the price is on the higher side, many find it well worth the experience—especially if their goal is a memorable, indulgent taste of Ghent’s chocolate heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: