The 5 best offbeat tours in Ghent

One of the world’s great cycling cities, Ghent is the perfect place to get around by bike. The city has developed a network of dedicated cycle routes, along with bridges and tunnels to separate bikes from cars. You can rent city bikes, electric bikes and cargo bikes that carry a couple of kids at three Fietspunt bike hubs, including one below the city library De Krook.

You can spend a summer day exploring the waterways of Ghent on your own little motor boat. The boat can be picked up at a small harbour office near the Kouter for a little trip of a couple of hours, or a full day messing around on the River Leie. The helpful staff tell you everything you need to know about navigating the local waterways.

Ghent local Christophe De Smet organises mountain bike tours that take you to unexpected corners of the city. Beginning on the main square, he heads to hidden places on the urban edge, including industrial areas with eclectic street art. Christophe also organises urban walking tours that focus on street art, unusual spots and local food.

Beer expert Jasper Pollet organises guided tours through Ghent that cover local history as well as the craft beer scene. His walks take in adventurous breweries, beer shops and his favourite local bars. He also organises craft beer tastings and edits a beer blog.

Nick Vandecasteele ran a local bar called Charlie before he decided to launch guided tours of his home town. He now
heads an enthusiastic team who take small groups on walking tours lasting a couple of hours. His Chocolate Tour takes you to some of the city’s best chocolate shops, where you meet the makers and get to taste their chocolates.