Ghent , Belgium

Chocolate history workshop Ghent

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(32 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Ever wanted to make your own chocolate? In this hands-on workshop, you’ll grind cacao beans into chocolate, just like the Maya and Aztecs once did. Create your own chocolate bar and discover the pure flavours of cacao. As you work, you’ll also dive into the fascinating history of Belgian chocolate - from ancient chocolate drinks to the first bonbons.

During this workshop, you’ll:
• Taste a chocolate drink recipe dating back 5,000 years
• Transform cacao beans into chocolate yourself
• Recreate a 17th-century hot chocolate recipe
• Indulge in chocolate delicacies enjoyed by historical figures across centuries
• Discover chocolate’s origins as medicine
• Enjoy chocolate bonbons, including the iconic seashells

Please note: This is not a chocolate-making class focused on techniques like tempering, melting, or shaping chocolate into truffles or bonbons. Instead, participants will create chocolate from scratch by grinding cacao beans.

Available options

ENGLISH

language

What's included

English guide is licensed/certified

Hot chocolate with recipe

water

cacao products

Belgian artisanal chocolates from different chocolate makers

Chocolate bar crafted by yourself from cacao beans

What's not included

transportation

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

28 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Due to the fact that our shop is located in a historical building, it is not easily accessible by wheelchair. If you use a wheelchair or you have any other support needs, contact us beforehand so we can look together what we can do to make this experience accessible for you.

This activity takes place in a chocolate shop. The tasting room temperature is around 18°C to maintain the quality of the chocolate. We would advise to bring a sweater if you are easily cold.

Meeting point

Chocolade Ambassade: just around the corner of the Gravensteen castle , look for the tallest traditional Flemish "stairs" house. Please make sure to arrive in time, preferably 10 minutes before the start of the activity.

About Ghent

Ghent is a picturesque medieval city in the Flemish region of Belgium, known for its well-preserved architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and rich history. The city is a blend of historical charm and modern dynamism, offering visitors a unique experience with its canals, castles, and lively student population.

Top Attractions

Gravensteen Castle

A well-preserved medieval castle that offers a glimpse into Ghent's history. The castle houses a museum with various exhibits.

Historical 1-2 hours €12

St. Bavo's Cathedral

A stunning example of Gothic architecture, this cathedral is home to the famous Ghent Altarpiece.

Religious 1 hour Free (€4 for the Ghent Altarpiece)

Ghent-Brugge Canal

A scenic canal that connects Ghent to Bruges, offering beautiful views and boat tours.

Nature 1-2 hours for a boat tour €10-€15

Ghent University

One of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Europe, known for its beautiful campus and historic buildings.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free (some exhibitions may have a fee)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Gentse Waterzooi

A traditional Flemish stew made with chicken or fish, potatoes, and vegetables, cooked in a creamy broth.

Dinner Contains dairy and meat

Gentse Neus

A local sausage made with a blend of beef and pork, flavored with spices and served with mustard.

Snack Contains meat

Liège Waffles

A type of Belgian waffle that is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, often served with toppings like whipped cream, chocolate, or fruit.

Dessert Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Popular Activities

Biking Hiking Boat tours Visiting parks and gardens Visiting museums and historic sites Attending festivals and events Kayaking Ice skating

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season in Ghent, with warm weather and numerous festivals and events. The city is bustling with activities, and the outdoor cafes and terraces are particularly enjoyable.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Dutch
Widely spoken: English, French
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Ghent is a generally safe city, but like any tourist destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep your belongings secure
• Be cautious when using ATMs
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services

Getting there

By air

Brussels Airport • 50 km from Ghent
Antwerp International Airport • 60 km from Ghent

By train

Ghent-Sint-Pieters Station

By bus

Ghent Central Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The tram network in Ghent is efficient and covers most of the city. It's a convenient way to get around.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Heetch

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Patershol Sint-Pietersnieuwstraat Graslei and Korenlei

Day trips

Bruges

45 km • Full day

A picturesque medieval city known for its canals, cobblestone streets, and historic architecture.

Brussels

50 km • Full day

The capital of Belgium, known for its grand architecture, museums, and the famous Grand Place.

Antwerp

60 km • Full day

A vibrant city known for its fashion scene, historic sites, and the famous Antwerp Diamond District.

Festivals

Ghent Light Festival • January Gentse Feesten • July Ghent World Music Festival • September

Pro tips

Visit the Gravensteen Castle early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the best views.
Explore the Patershol district for a taste of medieval Ghent and some of the city's best restaurants.
Take a boat tour along the Ghent-Brugge Canal for a unique perspective on the city's architecture and history.
Try local beers and dishes at traditional Flemish pubs and restaurants.
Visit the Ghent World Music Festival for a diverse range of international artists and cultural experiences.