The Ultimate Pub Crawl Guide in Gent
Famous for its charming canals, beautiful architecture and lively nightlife, Gent, Belgium is known to be. Having a pub crawl is your way to explore the city no matter how local or visitor, because it is a really wonderful way to breathe the special atmosphere and to taste some of the best beers of the world. Further in this guide, you will accompany us on our sentimental pub crawl through the streets of Gent, visiting the most popular pubs and giving tips about the ones to visit!
What is a Pub Crawl?
Pub crawl describes a pub or a bar where you go and visit several pubs or bars in a single night and may even be led or organized by a group or a tour. Organizers try to create a social activity wherein people can drink, chill and experience the local nightlife. Belgium has a lots of pubs from traditional Belgian pubs to modern trendy bars, so getting a long drink in Gent is easy.
Planning for a pub crawl in Gent
- Choose Your Date and Time
First of all, set the time on when you wish to go for your pub crawl. Pubs are crowded, but weekends have a livelier atmosphere. Alternatively, there may be a nice relaxed experience over a weeknight. Makes the best decision depending on the occasion, the group’s preference and the opening hours of the pub.
- Research Popular Pubs
Look up some of the pubs you’d like included on your crawl to do some research. If you have the time, we recommend choosing 4 to 6 places to visit during each scouring. Some important pubs to name here are:
- They are famous for the extensive beer menu including the famous “Maxi Beer”, served in its custom glass.
- A cozy pub with medieval-themed decoration and a wide selection of Belgian beers.
- Straight from the bat, another pub not to skip visiting for those who are lovers of good beer is De Trollekelder: An excellent ambience packed with local and international brews.
- ‘t Galgenhuisje: A historical pub dating back to the 18th century, offering a wide selection of Belgian beers and spirits.
- Create a Route
When you have identified your pubs and conceived the route to cover as many of them as possible during your pub crawl. List the pubs with their distance from where you are staying / meeting point, first to the end, the furthest away and then the closest. In this manner you will be saving extra time doing unnecessary time going back track or commuting among venues. A planned route will make the pub crawl a smoother, enjoyable one for everyone.
- Pace Yourself and Stay Hydrated
Pace yourself while partaking in the drinks. Belgium is known for their strong and flavored beers, but take your time and enjoy each one. Staying hydrated between drinks is good for keeping you hydrated and reducing the amount of intoxicated you get. So you should enjoy the evening responsibly and take care of yourself.
Tips for a Successful Pub Crawl in Gent
- Start Early
Take your pub crawl to an early evening start so you can visit each pub without rushing. In addition, it’s easier to find seating and chat to the locals—before the night gets busier.
- Embrace the Local Culture
Being a beer paradise, Belgium needs to be tried for different local brews on your way to the pub crawl. Learn about the unique characteristics in the beer and ask bartenders for recommendations. An excellent occasion for you to sink into Belgium’s beer culture.
- Enjoy the Bar Snacks
Gent is full of great pubs and for most of them you will be offered bar snacks to go with your drink. And don’t forget to try some classic Belgian items, bitter ballen, fries, cheese croquettes or local sausages. It makes crawlers more appealing.
- Meet New People
The opportunity to meet other participants and locals is one of the best things of a pub crawl. Involve yourselves in conversation, raise a toast and make some new friends as you go along. Believe it or not, the residents of Gent actually turn out to be friendly and hospitable people – don’t be shy to mingle.
- Consider a Guided Tour
If you have doubts about planning a pub crawl, have a guided group join you. It takes away all the ambiguity of deciding pubs, logistics, etc. With a knowledgeable guide, you will be taken on a trip through the city’s best bars, hear some fascinating stories, and you will have one of the most unforgettable trips.
Conclusion
Beer fans and folks on the prowl for a rousing night on the town are in for something special with Gent’s pub crawl. The city has a rich brewing tradition, and a wide bar selection to sate your night, and you’ll get a great time traversing the town’s nightlife. Keep in mind to prepare your route, share the pace and get immersed with the local culture. A pub crawl in Gent is somewhere you will definitely not want to miss, unless you are a part of the guide group.
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