Charlie’s famous Chocolate Tour (Ghent)

If you’re heading to Ghent and love chocolate, this tour might just be the treat you’re looking for. We’ve read plenty of reviews and details about Charlie’s famous Chocolate Tour, and it seems like a solid pick for anyone wanting to sample the city’s finest chocolates while catching some of Ghent’s highlights. It’s a cozy, small-group experience, around two hours long, and packed with tastings, stories, and a relaxed vibe.

What really drew our attention is how much travelers rave about the guide’s knowledge and personality—many say that the tour isn’t just about chocolate but also about Ghent’s charm and history. Plus, with a minimum of eight chocolate tastings, you definitely get your sugar fix. That said, it’s also worth noting that at $52.25 per person, it’s a good value for the quality and depth of experience, especially if you love chocolate and city sightseeing combined.

One thing to consider is that you might want to come hungry, as the tour offers a lot of sweet treats, and some reviews mention craving more chocolate or less candy. It’s also quite walking-heavy, so comfortable shoes are recommended. This tour seems best suited for chocolate lovers, curious travelers, and those who enjoy a relaxed pace with fun stories about Ghent and its sweet spots.

Key Points

• Taste at least eight different chocolates and candies, with a variety ranging from pralines to experimental flavors.
• Learn about Ghent’s landmarks and history between chocolate stops, making the experience both tasty and educational.
• Enjoy a small, friendly group that allows for personalized interaction and easier shopping at each shop.
• Excellent guide: many reviews praise guides for being knowledgeable, funny, and engaging.
• Great for a quick, fun introduction to Ghent’s culinary and cultural scene, especially if you’re short on time.
• Price reflects quality: for around $52, you get multiple tastings, stories, and sightseeing in a well-organized tour.

If your trip to Ghent includes a love for chocolate—or even just a curiosity about Belgian confections—this tour checks many boxes. It’s designed to be an enjoyable, informative walk through Ghent’s medieval streets, combined with an indulgent tasting experience. The fact that it’s a small group—usually capped at 15—means you get a more intimate, relaxed vibe, and your guide can tailor the experience a bit more than in larger groups.

What’s the Tour All About?

Starting at the lively Vrijdagmarkt, the tour kicks off with a stop at Chocolatier Deduytschaever, renowned as the “best chocolatier of Flanders” by Gault Millau. Here, you’ll get to taste some of their pralines and peek into their atelier, meeting the owners behind the sweets. Many reviews highlight this as a top-notch introduction to Ghent’s chocolate scene, with one reviewer calling the chocolates “the best of the best.” It’s a fantastic way to see how high-quality Belgian chocolates are made and get a sense of local craftsmanship from passionate chocolatiers.

Next, the tour heads to Chocolaterie Vandenbouhede, where the owners?

are eager to introduce you to their experimental creations. This stop is especially fun for those who enjoy surprises. You might try chocolates infused with mustard, chili, bacon, or even tomato. Expect the unexpected, and be prepared for a few bold flavors that challenge your palate.

From there, the group visits what’s considered the most popular chocolate shop in Belgium, for a taste of their signature products. This stop is a highlight for many, who comment in reviews about how much they enjoyed sampling Belgian chocolates in their purest form. It’s a chance to compare the chocolates you’ve tasted so far and get insights into what makes Belgian chocolate so famous.

Candy and Sweets: A Little Nostalgia

As the tour continues, you’ll visit Confiserie Temmerman, the oldest candy shop in Ghent, family-run since 1904. Here, candy with a story awaits, and many reviewers enjoy the chance to sample traditional sweets that have been crafted through generations. It’s a nostalgic moment and a reminder of how deep the city’s candy history runs.

Then, at Chocolaterie Van Hoorebeke, you’ll indulge in chocolates filled with passion fruit—a flavor explosion that many say is unforgettable. It’s a good example of how Ghent’s chocolatiers push boundaries and craft unique flavors.

A Taste of Home & Local Bakes

The next stop is Kraanlei, where Julie’s homemade red velvet brownies beckon. Many reviews mention how these brownies are a personal touch—home-baked and rich—that adds a cozy, homemade feel to the tour.

Finally, the tour wraps up in Ghent’s city center, where your guide shares stories, interesting facts, and sights of Ghent’s landmarks. The 30-minute segment is a perfect way to soak in the atmosphere, learn a bit about the city’s past, and get some ideas for further exploring on your own.

What’s Included & What to Expect

For the price of about $52.25, you receive a guided tour with at least nine tastings (chocolates and sweets), along with storytelling and sightseeing. The tastings have earned many raves—reviews describe the chocolates as “delicious,” “amazing,” and “spot-on.” Visitors appreciate the variety, from classic pralines to inventive flavors, and mention that their guide’s explanations help distinguish the different chocolates’ qualities.

The tour is designed to be fun and accessible, with most travelers finding it suitable for all ages and interests. It’s also worth noting that snacks and all fees are included, but you might want to bring bottled water if you prefer.

The Guide & Group Size

A recurring theme in reviews is how much guests enjoy their guides. Many say guides like Debbie, Valerie, Sarah, or Vera are knowledgeable, funny, and friendly. They’re passionate about Ghent and chocolates, which adds a genuine warmth to the experience. The small group size enhances this personal touch—guides can share stories, answer questions, and accommodate shopping or tasting preferences.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you enjoy sweet treats and want an engaging way to experience Ghent’s vibrant streets, this tour is ideal. It’s perfect for chocolate lovers, curious travelers who like a mix of history and fun stories, and those who prefer a leisurely, walk-and-taste experience. Families and all generations seem to have a good time, especially given the playful and interactive stops.

However, if you’re more into historical or art-focused tours, or if you prefer a more intense sightseeing schedule, this might feel a bit light on actual history. Also, since it’s quite walk-heavy, comfortable shoes are a must.

For those looking to combine Ghent sightseeing with a seriously tasty sampling of Belgian chocolates, Charlie’s Chocolate Tour hits the sweet spot. The small-group format and knowledgeable guides make it more than just a tasting—it’s a fun, relaxed way to get to know some of Ghent’s best chocolatiers and landmarks.

The variety of chocolates, the engaging stories, and the warm, friendly atmosphere make this a memorable experience. It’s especially well-suited for dessert fans who want to indulge while learning about the city they’re visiting. The price is reasonable considering the quality and amount of tastings, and most reviews agree it’s a highlight of their trip.

If you’re visiting Ghent and want to add a fun, flavorful twist to your day, this tour is a solid choice. Just come with an appetite and an open mind for some bold flavors and sweet surprises.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but the focus on chocolate and candy might be more enjoyable for those with a sweet tooth. Kids who love sweets will likely have a good time, but keep in mind it’s a walking tour, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 2 hours, which makes it a quick yet satisfying experience. Perfect if you’re short on time but want a taste of Ghent’s chocolate scene.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Vrijdagmarkt and concludes near Saint Bavo’s Cathedral in Ghent’s city center.

What is included in the price?
All fees, taxes, and at least 8-9 different chocolates and sweets are included. No need to worry about extra costs for tastings.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
It’s mostly outdoors and walking-based, so check the weather forecast. In rain, you might want an umbrella or raincoat, but the tour can generally go on rain or shine.

If you’re after a flavorful way to explore Ghent and enjoy some of the city’s best chocolates, this tour is definitely worth considering. It combines fun, flavor, and a touch of local history—all in a relaxed, friendly setting.