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

Ghent is one of the most important beer cities in the world and it’s only natural that visitors, especially those who enjoy an evening pint, should explore the city in search of its many beer-related attractions. From beer-tastings and pub crawls to world-renowned beer-houses and breweries, there’s something for everyone here. So, if you’re looking for an unforgettable beer-filled evening, join a young local guide for an intimate adventure through the city’s breweries and pubs. This guide will help you make the most out of your exciting beer experience in Ghent.

History of Beer Culture in Ghent

For centuries, Ghent has been known as one of Europe’s top beer cities. Located in the southeast of Belgium near the Dutch border, Ghent is an important hub of beer production and culture. It was home to some of the most renowned Belgian beers and breweries, such as Brouwerij Jan de Lichte and Brouwerij Roman.

In the 17th century, the city was home to more beerhouses than any other city in Europe. This trend continued into the 19th century, when the city’s famous Brouwerij Jan de Lichte became the largest and most popular beer producer in Belgium. Today, Ghent is still known for its rich history of beer and brewing, and is home to some of the best breweries and bars in the country.

Ghent’s Breweries & Bars

When it comes to beer in Ghent, there is no shortage of places to visit. From small beer-houses to world-renowned breweries and pubs, there’s something to satisfy every palate.

Breweries & Bars

The most popular destinations include traditional pubs like Brouwerij Jan de Lichte, Brouwerij Roman, De Halve Maan, Pils van Gent, and De Garre. These pubs offer a wide range of beers and ales, as well as traditional Belgian snacks such as frites (fries) and boulets (meatballs).

Breweries & Pubs

Ghent is also home to many smaller breweries and pubs where locals congregate to experience some of the city’s best beers. Some of the best places to visit include Bokrijk Brouwerij, Ploeg Repic Brouwerij, Hof Ter Beke Brouwerij, De Struise Brouwerij and many more. Enjoy a range of ales and India Pale Ales, or stick with a classic Belgian wheat beer like Wittekerke.

Beer Tours & Tastings

If you’re looking for a more intimate experience on your trip to Ghent, consider signing up for a guided beer tour or tasting. Led by a knowledgeable tour guide, these tours take you through the city’s best breweries, pubs and bars to get an up-close look at the brewing process and taste some of the city’s favorite beers.

If you’re up for a challenge, join a 25-hour small group beer tasting tour with GetYourGuide, which takes you on a trip through some of Ghent’s best pubs and beer houses and explores the history of beer culture in the city. Sample local beers while learning about Belgian history and culture from your local guide. To find out more information about this unique tour, simply follow this link.

Food & Drink Specials

When exploring Ghent’s many bars and breweries, be sure to take advantage of its food and drink specials. From happy hours to weekly food specials (Schnitzel Wednesday anyone?), there’s something for everyone at any budget. You can grab burgers or fries from local pubs or food trucks, or try some of Ghent’s traditional dish of waterzooi stew with chicken and vegetables in a cream sauce. Enjoy food specials with a side of history while exploring the city’s numerous breweries.

Shopping & Souvenirs

At a beer bar or brewery in Ghent, be sure to stock up on souvenirs to take home with you. Look out for bottles of local beer or speciality glassware like tulip glasses or ceramic mugs featuring traditional Belgian designs. If you’re looking for snacks or speciality food items like candy, cookies or chocolates you’ll find plenty of shops at Ghent’s historic centre filled with tasty treats.

Whether you’re looking for a daytrip or an evening excursion, Ghent is brimming with attractions for even the most passionate beer connoisseur. From pub crawls to brewery tours and traditional Belgian snacks, join a young local guide for an intimate adventure through the city’s best bars and breweries and explore Belgium’s unique beer culture like never before.

Ghent: An Insider’s Guide to Belgium’s Beer World

Belgium is known worldwide for its rich brewing tradition, and there’s no better place in the country to immerse yourself in beer culture than Ghent. Located in the Flemish region, Ghent is a picturesque city with a charming medieval center that blends seamlessly with the contemporary city landscape. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or not, there’s plenty to discover in Ghent beyond its famous brews.

Local Attractions

Ghent is a city full of surprises, with hidden gems that only locals know about. One such place is the Geeraard de Duivelsteen, an imposing castle dating back to the 13th century that was once the residence of the Counts of Flanders. Nowadays, the castle is open to visitors and hosts various exhibitions and events.

Another must-see attraction in Ghent is Graffiti Street, a colorful alleyway that showcases the city’s street art scene. Local artists have covered every inch of the walls from top to bottom with their stunning artwork, making it a feast for the eyes.

Dining Spots

Ghent has a reputation for being a foodie heaven, and it’s not hard to see why. From traditional Flemish dishes to international cuisine, Ghent’s culinary scene is diverse and flavorful. A must-try dish is the famous waterzooi, a creamy stew made with fish or chicken, vegetables, and herbs. You can find it in many restaurants across the city, but if you want to taste the most authentic version, head to De Stoverij.

For a local beer experience, visit the Dulle Griet pub that boasts over 500 types of beer, including their famous ‘Max’ beer, served in a boot-shaped glass that requires a deposit of one of your shoes!

Cultural Experiences

Ghent comes alive during festivals, and if you’re lucky enough to be there during one, don’t miss out on the fun. The Ghent Festival is the largest cultural festival in Belgium, and it takes place every July. For ten days, the city becomes an open-air party with music, dance, theater, and street performances. It’s an excellent opportunity to mingle with locals and celebrate life.

Another cultural experience that should be on any visitor’s list is visiting the Museum of Fine Arts (MSK). The museum hosts a vast collection of Flemish art from the medieval period to the present day, including works by renowned artists such as Jan van Eyck and Peter Paul Rubens.

Local History

Ghent has a rich history dating back to the Roman times, and there are many stories to uncover. For instance, did you know that Ghent was once one of the most prominent cloth-making centers in Europe during the Middle Ages? The city’s wealth and power can be seen in the beautiful guildhalls that still stand today along the Graslei and Korenlei canals.

Another fascinating piece of history is Gravensteen, the castle of the Counts of Flanders. The castle was built in the 12th century and has had many purposes over the years, including serving as a courthouse and a prison. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of the city’s heritage.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For a unique and memorable experience in Ghent, take a boat tour along its picturesque canals. You’ll get to see the city from a different perspective and hear fascinating stories from a local guide.

If you’re up for some adventure, head to the Blaarmeersen Recreational Park located on the outskirts of Ghent. It’s a perfect place to relax, go kayaking, swim, or play miniature golf. There are various activities available for both adults and children, making it an ideal family outing.

In conclusion, Ghent has so much to offer beyond its world-famous beer. From hidden gems to local cuisine, cultural experiences to rich history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions, it’s a city that caters to all types of travelers. So, grab a pint of beer, and get ready to discover Ghent – Belgium’s beer world gem.