Ghent stands out as one of Belgium’s most delicious cities, blending historic charm with a lively food scene. Its compact size makes it perfect for exploring on foot, and its abundance of small eateries and local specialties means every bite feels authentic. For anyone visiting, a food tour isn’t just about eating; it’s about experiencing the city’s soul through its flavors. Whether you’re drawn to a relaxed pace that combines sightseeing and tastings or want a deeper dive into Ghent’s hidden culinary treasures, these tours deliver. We particularly appreciate tours that cover iconic sights like Ghent Cathedral or the Castle of the Counts, offering a rich mix of history and bites. For instance, the Introduction to Ghent through food is a standout for how it combines top landmarks with Belgian specialties, making it a top pick for first-timers.
In this guide, we’ve selected two top-rated Ghent food tours—each with its own style and focus. One leans toward a longer, more comprehensive culinary experience with a balance of sightseeing and tastings, while the other offers a more intimate, small-group walk focusing on hidden gems and local eateries. Both are rated 5 stars, promising quality and memorable flavors. Let’s explore what each has to offer.
1. Walking food tour: Introduction to Ghent through food
This walking food tour: Introduction to Ghent through food is an excellent choice for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Ghent without missing out on its sights. For around $110, you’ll spend approximately 2 to 2.5 hours meandering through the city’s most photogenic spots like Ghent Cathedral, Vrijdagsmarkt, and Graffiti Street. The tour cleverly combines sightseeing and food tastings, so you won’t need to pay at each stop. Instead, tastings such as chocolate, cheese, beer, and charcuterie are included, making this a filling experience.
What sets this tour apart is its flexible route that hits major landmarks while allowing for photo stops and storytelling. The guide, Sophie, is praised for her pride in Ghent and her engaging commentary. Visitors note that the food lineup varies, ensuring each tour feels fresh, but always features Belgian staples like waffles, coffee, and local cheeses. Because the tastings are included, you can relax and enjoy the leisurely pace without worrying about extra costs.
This tour is perfect for those who want to maximize their limited time while still sampling a wide array of Ghent’s food scene. The reviews consistently highlight the knowledgeable guide and the delicious samples as major highlights, with visitors feeling they gained both culinary insight and cultural knowledge.
Bottom Line: Highly recommended for first-time visitors who want a relaxed, all-in-one introduction to Ghent’s sights and flavors.
2. Walking Food Tour in Ghent
At number 2, the Walking Food Tour in Ghent offers an intimate look at the city’s local food scene. For about $89, expect a 2 to 3-hour walk through some of Ghent’s lesser-known eateries and historic areas. This tour focuses less on iconic landmarks and more on small businesses, local specialties, and authentic bites. It’s perfect if you prefer exploring off the beaten path with a small group of no more than 10 people.
Starting at the Artevelde statue in Friday Market, the tour guides you through historic streets with stops at charming shops and eateries. Typical tastings include beef stew with fries, vegan cheese, Belgian waffles, and fine chocolates. The guide is praised for storytelling that reveals Ghent’s hidden culinary gems, making even seasoned travelers feel like locals discovering secret spots.
Guests love the personalized experience, especially when the guide adapts to dietary needs, as one reviewer appreciated how the guide tailored the tour for her specific diet. The inclusion of tastings means you get a good sense of Ghent’s diverse flavors without the hassle of paying at each venue. The small group setting fosters a friendly atmosphere, making it easy to ask questions and soak up local tips.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a more focused, local experience with a smaller group and a deeper dive into Ghent’s hidden culinary treasures.
How to Choose the Right Food Tour in Ghent
Picking between these two options depends on what kind of experience you’re after. If your priority is seeing Ghent’s main sights while enjoying a variety of tasty bites, the Introduction to Ghent through food offers a well-rounded approach with a generous sampling lineup. It’s especially suitable if you want a relaxed tour with commentary on both food and landmarks.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more intimate walk that focuses on local eateries and hidden culinary spots, the Walking Food Tour in Ghent emphasizes small-group interaction and discovering Ghent’s lesser-known food secrets. This is perfect for travelers who love exploring small businesses and authentic local flavors.
Budget-wise, the second tour is slightly less expensive and offers a more personalized experience, which can be worth considering if you enjoy smaller groups. Timing-wise, both tours work well in the morning or early afternoon, but booking early is advisable, especially in high season.
Final Thoughts
Ghent offers a delightful range of food tour options that suit different interests. For a comprehensive introduction blending sightseeing with tastings, the Introduction to Ghent through food is hard to beat. If you prefer small-group intimacy and discovering hidden gems, the Walking Food Tour in Ghent is a fantastic choice.
Both tours promise a fun, flavorful experience that will deepen your appreciation of Ghent’s culinary culture. Be sure to book early, especially during peak travel months, to secure your spot on these popular tours. Whether you’re a foodie, a history lover, or just hungry for a new adventure, Ghent’s food scene won’t disappoint—so go ahead, indulge!