The Ultimate Craft Beer Adventure in Amsterdam!

If you’re keen on exploring Amsterdam beyond its iconic canals and museums, a craft beer tour offers a fantastic way to experience the city’s local flavor. This 3.5-hour guided journey takes you into the heart of the city’s thriving microbrewery scene, with stops at historic pubs and modern breweries, all accompanied by Dutch snacks and stories from knowledgeable guides. Our review is based on glowing traveler feedback and in-depth details from the tour provider, helping you decide if this beer-focused experience fits your Amsterdam itinerary.

What we love about this tour is its blend of culture, history, and taste. From visiting centuries-old bars like De Drie Fleschjes to tasting innovative craft brews at Brouwerij de Prael, every moment offers something memorable. We also appreciate how accessible it is, with a small-group setting that ensures personalized attention and a friendly vibe. The inclusion of Dutch snacks adds a delicious touch, helping balance the different beer styles. A potential consideration is that this tour doesn’t include lunch or extra drinks, so if you’re a bigger drinker or hungry, you might want to plan accordingly. Overall, it’s ideal for beer enthusiasts, curious travelers, or anyone wanting a relaxed, authentic taste of Amsterdam.

Good To Know

• Authentic Experiences: Visits to historic bars and microbreweries with stories behind each location
• Diverse Beer Selection: From traditional Dutch spirits to award-winning craft beers
• Cultural Insights: Insightful commentary from guides about Amsterdam’s beer scene and local stories
• Snacks Included: Dutch cheeses and snacks perfectly paired with drinks
• Small Group: Intimate atmosphere with a maximum of 10 travelers
• Flexible Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

Exploring the Itinerary: What to Expect

Meeting at Dam Square

The tour kicks off at Dam Square, a central and recognizable spot in Amsterdam. It’s a convenient meeting point, perfect for travelers arriving by public transport. The guide, whose name is not specified but praised for their expertise and engaging storytelling, will walk you through the day’s plan, setting expectations and sharing some initial local insights. Starting here means you get a feel for the city’s vibrancy before stepping into its beer culture.

Stop 1: Nieuwe Kerk

Just a quick five-minute walk from Dam Square, you’ll meet in front of Nieuwe Kerk, a historic church with a striking Gothic façade. Although admission isn’t included, the church’s impressive architecture and its significance in Dutch history make it worth a quick glance if you’re into historic sites. This initial stop sets the tone for the cultural richness intertwined with the beer journey.

Stop 2: De Drie Fleschjes

Next up is De Drie Fleschjes, an hotel with over 300 years of history. Here, you’ll experience a traditional jenever tasting, a Dutch spirit often called “Dutch gin,” beloved by locals and once favored by Rembrandt himself. The guide shares stories about its history and significance, adding depth to the tasting. Visitors have described this stop as “timeless,” and the experience of doing it like locals do is a highlight. Since tickets are free, this part offers a genuine peek into the Dutch drinking culture.

Walk Through the Canals to Singel

From there, a scenic walk along Amsterdam’s picturesque canals takes you to the next stop. The canal views allow you to acclimate to the city’s unique aesthetic, making the experience feel more intimate and relaxed. The guide often points out interesting facts about the city’s architecture and history during this stroll.

Stop 3: Proeflokaal Arendsnest

This stop is a true gem—Proeflokaal Arendsnest, a bar recognized as one of the “Best Bars” in 2019 by RateBeer. It boasts an impressive 52 Dutch craft beers on tap, making it a paradise for beer lovers. The guide shares the story behind the bar’s journey and how it became a hub of Dutch craft brewing. You’ll sample a variety of award-winning beers alongside Dutch cheeses, creating a perfect pairing experience. Guests mention that the bar’s lively yet cozy environment makes it easy to relax and enjoy the taste exploration.

Stop 4: In de Wildeman

Another RateBeer award winner, In de Wildeman is renowned for its historic brown café ambiance and a globally admired craft beer selection. The atmosphere here is described as “craft beer heaven,” attracting brewers, sommeliers, and enthusiasts alike. The guide explains the significance of this historic venue while you sample local beers and munch on Dutch bar snacks. Reviewers talk about the welcoming vibe and how this stop exemplifies Amsterdam’s love for craft beer.

Walk Through the Red Light District to Brouwerij de Prael

The tour then takes a leisurely walk through the famous Red Light District, giving you a glimpse of one of Amsterdam’s most iconic neighborhoods. This walk isn’t just scenic—it’s also a chance to see the city’s contrasts, from historic pubs to lively nightlife. The guide will share stories and details about the district’s history, adding an extra layer of context.

Stop 5: Brouwerij de Prael

Finally, you visit Brouwerij de Prael, one of Amsterdam’s first five microbreweries, with a story as intriguing as its beers. Here, you’ll sample some of the brewery’s best brews and enjoy home-cooked Dutch snacks. This brewery is highly praised for its authentic craft beers, and many reviewers have noted that tasting at the source offers a deeper appreciation of the brewing process. The guide shares insights into the brewery’s journey, making this a fitting conclusion to your tasting adventure.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers a curated selection of Dutch craft beers and spirits, along with Dutch snacks, primarily cheeses. The inclusion of these local delicacies enhances the tasting experience, giving you a real sense of Dutch flavor. The tour also provides a helpful list of additional recommendations for exploring more of Amsterdam’s food, drink, and cultural sites.

However, lunch isn’t included, nor are additional drinks or snacks you may wish to purchase during the tour. Travelers should plan to eat beforehand or bring extra euros if they want to extend their tasting experience. The tour costs $125.61 per person, which, considering the quality of the venues, the guide’s expertise, and the included tastings, offers good value for an immersive experience.

The Experience: Atmosphere, Group, and Logistics

This tour is designed to be intimate, with a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring plenty of personal attention and a friendly atmosphere. The guide, Michael, is praised for being knowledgeable and engaging, making everyone feel comfortable whether they’re solo, with friends, or part of a small group.

Starting at 3:00 pm, it’s a perfect afternoon activity, ending in the Red Light District or at the brewery itself. The total duration of roughly 3.5 hours strikes a nice balance—long enough to explore thoroughly but not so long that it becomes overwhelming. The tour is accessible via public transportation, and service animals are permitted, making it suitable for most travelers.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This craft beer tour offers a well-rounded taste of Amsterdam’s brewing culture, mixing history, local stories, and delicious samples. For beer lovers, it’s an ideal way to discover both traditional spirits and innovative brews, all within a cozy, small-group setting. The inclusion of Dutch snacks and the walk through iconic neighborhoods add layers of local flavor beyond just drinking.

If you’re after a relaxed, engaging, and authentic experience that connects you with Amsterdam’s craft beer scene, this tour delivers. The knowledgeable guides and carefully curated venues make it a standout choice, especially for those eager to deepen their appreciation for Dutch brewing.

However, if your focus is on full meals or extensive beer tastings, you might want to supplement this tour with additional outings. The price is reasonable given the quality and variety, making it a worthwhile splurge for a fun, informative afternoon.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, many reviews mention traveling solo and enjoying the company of other beer enthusiasts. The small-group format encourages socializing.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch isn’t included. You’ll want to eat beforehand or plan to buy additional snacks or drinks during the tour if desired.

Are the stops crowded?
The tour’s small size (max 10 people) ensures a more intimate experience, even in popular neighborhoods like the Red Light District.

Is the tour accessible via public transportation?
Yes, the meeting point is near public transit options and easy to reach.

Who leads the tour?
While the guide’s name isn’t specified in the reviews, Michael is praised for his knowledge and storytelling.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance and receive a full refund.

Are children allowed?
While not explicitly stated, most travelers should be able to enjoy the tour unless underage drinking laws apply.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves walking through historic neighborhoods.

How much do drinks cost on the tour?
All included in the ticket price—so you get a curated selection of Dutch spirits and beers without additional charge during the tour.

In short, this Amsterdam craft beer adventure provides a friendly, comprehensive, and tasty introduction to the city’s brewing culture. It’s perfect for curious travelers, beer lovers, or anyone wanting a different side of Amsterdam—one full of stories, flavor, and local charm.