Discover the rich tradition of Belgian brewing in Ghent, where a wide choice of tastings and tours offer an authentic flavour of the nation’s centuries-old beer culture.
(Photo: BeerSecret / Courtesy GetYourGuide)
There are few more quintessential Belgian experiences than a beer tasting and brewery tour, offering visitors the chance to immerse themselves in the country’s world-famous brewing heritage. Typically, these tours include stops at local bars and beer halls, as well as visits to renowned breweries, with tastings often featuring a selection of signature Belgian brews, from rich Trappist ales to refreshing saisons. Below are three great hand-picked tours, including the chance to explore Ghent’s beer scene with a local guide, make Belgian waffles washed down with carefully selected beers, and a look around an acclaimed brewery with expert insights and tastings.
Discover Belgium’s Beer World with a Young Local
Embark on a 3-hour beer tour through Ghent with a young local guide for company. Starting mid-afternoon at the Korenmarkt historic market square, the small-group tour takes you to some of the city’s best beer spots. At each one, you’ll enjoy tastings of various Belgian beers while learning about their history and production from your knowledgeable guide. The tour includes visits to local pubs, microbreweries, and historic locations. The price covers all beer tastings, and the experience concludes at a popular local bar, where you are free to stay on at your leisure or head off into the city. From $68 per person.
Belgian Waffle-Making Workshop with Beer Tasting
(Photo: Waffles ‘n Beer / Courtesy GetYourGuide)
Join a fun and interactive 2.5-hour waffle-making workshop with beer tasting. Kicking off mid-morning, the experience begins at a cosy local kitchen, where you’ll learn to craft authentic Belgian waffles from scratch under the guidance of an expert tutor. After preparing and tasting your waffles, you’ll be introduced to an enticing selection of local beers, each thoughtfully chosen to complement the sweet, sugary treats you’ve just created with your own fair hands. The session concludes at the workshop location, leaving you with new skills and a taste of two time-honoured Belgian culinary traditions. The price includes your hands-on waffle-making, beer tastings, and all ingredients needed for the class. From $40 per person.
Dok Brewing Company Tour & Tasting
Explore one of Ghent’s most acclaimed breweries during this 2-hour tour including a full tasting session. After meting at the brewery entrance, you’ll be introduced to your friendly guide who – as you’ll soon discover – is a font of all knowledge when it comes to beer. Regaling you with insights and stories as you go, the guide will walk you through the facility, showing you at close quarters how the brewing process works and unveiling the secrets behind the brewery’s signature beers. Afterward, you’ll indulge in a curated tasting experience, sampling a variety of Dok’s finest brews. You can then stay at the brewery to enjoy the atmosphere and try more of the home produce (own expense), or head on your way. The price includes your guide and all beer tastings taken during the duration of the tour. From $19 per person.