Amsterdam Craft Beer Tour – Discover the Tastiest Dutch Brews!

If you’re someone who loves trying new drinks or simply enjoys a good story behind your beer, the Amsterdam Craft Beer Tour by Bespoke Amsterdam Experiences offers a flavorful journey through the city’s best microbreweries and historic bars. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, the reviews and itinerary paint a picture of a lively, educational, and highly enjoyable experience.

What immediately draws us in are three standout features: the chance to sample a variety of top Dutch craft beers, the visit to Amsterdam’s oldest bar, and the opportunity to explore famous local neighborhoods like the Red Light District with a knowledgeable guide. Plus, the inclusion of delicious Dutch snacks makes this more than just a tasting—it’s a cultural experience.

One thing to consider is that this tour is limited to 10 people, which means a more intimate and engaging atmosphere. However, it’s designed for adults 18+, so if you’re traveling with younger companions, this wouldn’t be suitable. It’s perfect for beer lovers, curious travelers, or anyone wanting to uncover Amsterdam’s hidden drinking gems.

Good To Know

• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Luis and local insiders bring the history, stories, and secrets of Amsterdam’s beer scene to life.
• Authentic Experiences: Visit historic bars like De Drie Fleschjes and Het Elfde Gebod, places that have been serving locals for generations.
• Diverse Tasting: Multiple craft beers from Dutch microbreweries, including the bar with the most on draft, plus Dutch snacks for pairing.
• Cultural Journey: Pass through famous landmarks like Dam Square and Nieuwe Kerk, blending sightseeing with tasting.
• Small Group Vibe: Limited to just 10 people, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Flexible Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, ideal for flexible travel plans.

Exploring the Itinerary: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

Starting at Nieuwe Kerk and Dam Square: Setting the Scene

The tour kicks off at the Nieuwe Kerk, a beautiful historic church in the heart of Amsterdam. From there, it’s a quick walk to Dam Square, where the bustling city spirit immediately hits you. These landmarks aren’t just the starting points—they provide a glimpse of Amsterdam’s vibrant history and culture, setting a perfect backdrop for the beer adventure ahead.

Visiting De Drie Fleschjes: The Oldest Bar in Amsterdam

Next, the group heads to De Drie Fleschjes, which claims to be Amsterdam’s oldest bar and has been serving drinks since last year, officially. The guide shares stories about the bar’s past while you sip on traditional Dutch liquors, paired with local snacks. Reviewers describe the experience as “very engaging”, highlighting the warm, cozy atmosphere and the guide’s storytelling skills.

Sampling Dutch Beers at Proeflokaal Arendsnest

The tour continues at Proeflokaal Arendsnest, a bar boasting the largest selection of Dutch beers on draft. Here, you’ll taste several brews, each offering a different facet of Dutch brewing craftsmanship. The guide’s insights help you appreciate the nuances, from crisp IPAs to darker, more complex styles. We’re told that some guests enjoy trying the beers with traditional snacks, enhancing the flavors and creating a true gezelligheid (Dutch coziness).

Walking Through the Red Light District to Brouwerij de Prael

The group then strolls through the famous Red Light District, gaining a glimpse of one of Amsterdam’s most iconic neighborhoods. This walk isn’t just about the scenery; it’s also a chance to soak in the unique vibe of the city while heading to Brouwerij de Prael. This microbrewery is notable not just for its beers but also for its history and character. Guests have shared that they learned a lot about the brewery’s background and its role in the local community, making each sip more meaningful.

Final Stop at Het Elfde Gebod

The tour concludes at Het Elfde Gebod, a traditional brown bar known for its friendly atmosphere and historic ambiance. The review mentions this as a “fantastic ending”, offering a perfect spot to reflect on the day’s tasting and stories, perhaps with one last local brew.

What You’ll Experience: The Real Value

The Craft Beer Selection

You’ll sample several Dutch craft beers, which means you get to taste a variety of flavors—something that’s often missing from typical pub visits. The guide is praised for his knowledge and enthusiasm, making each tasting educational. Guests mention that some of the beers are so unique they wouldn’t have discovered them on their own, highlighting the value of guided expertise.

The Atmosphere and Group Size

With just up to 10 guests, this tour fosters an intimate environment where you can ask questions freely and share your impressions. The small group size is especially appreciated by reviewers, who say it allows for more personalized storytelling and interaction.

The Inclusion of Dutch Snacks

Snacks are thoughtfully paired with the beers, often local specialties, making the tasting experience even more authentic. Reviewers note the snacks complement the beers perfectly, accentuating the flavors and heightening the tasting pleasure.

The Guide and Local Insights

Guests consistently praise guides like Luis for their stories, local knowledge, and genuine enthusiasm. One reviewer mentions that the guide was very approachable and answered many questions, making the experience both fun and informative.

Tour Duration and Timing

Spanning approximately 3.5 hours starting at 3:00 pm, the tour fits well into an afternoon plan or as a delightful way to start an evening in Amsterdam. The timing also allows for exploration afterward—perhaps more sightseeing or dinner.

Price and Value

At $103.03 per person, this experience offers a solid value if you’re interested in craft beer, local history, and authentic taverns. Considering the quality of venues and the guidance, many find the price fair, especially since it includes tastings, snacks, and the company of a knowledgeable guide.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

One reviewer recounts having “so much fun” during a tour with Luis, emphasizing how much they learned about Dutch beer and the local bars they wouldn’t have found alone. Another highlights the “knowledgeable guide” and the delicious Dutch snacks, making the experience feel both educational and satisfying.

A German-speaking guest appreciated the “abwechslungsreich und authentisch” (varied and authentic) tour through the Jordaan neighborhood, praising the guide’s familiarity with the area and enthusiasm.

Practical Tips for the Tour

• Meet at Gravenstraat 21 at 3:00 pm – be punctual to make the most of the experience.
• The tour is near public transportation, so it’s easy to access from different parts of the city.
• Since the tour is 18+ only, it’s suitable for adult travelers looking to indulge responsibly.
• Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before, so you can plan your day with flexibility.
• Dress comfortably and be prepared for some walking through lively neighborhoods.

The Sum Up

This Amsterdam Craft Beer Tour is a fantastic choice for anyone who wants to combine cultural sightseeing with beer tasting. The small group setting, expert guidance, and authentic venues make it stand out. Whether you’re a serious beer enthusiast or a curious traveler craving local stories, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

The inclusion of local snacks and visits to historic bars adds layers of flavor—literally and figuratively—to the experience. The tour is best suited for those who appreciate quality guidance, are interested in Dutch brewing, and want an intimate look at Amsterdam’s iconic neighborhoods.

For travelers seeking an engaging, friendly, and taste-rich adventure, this tour offers real value—delivering more than just drinks, but stories that will stay with you as part of your Amsterdam journey.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-beer drinkers?
Since the tour involves tasting multiple beers, it’s best suited for those who enjoy beer. However, if you’re open to trying new flavors and learning about Dutch brewing, you’ll still find it enjoyable.

What is the group size?
The tour is designed for a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a cozy and personalized experience.

Are snacks included?
Yes, Dutch snacks are served alongside the beer tastings, enhancing the flavors and adding to the gezelligheid.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, starting at 3:00 pm.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Gravenstraat 21 and finishes at Het Elfde Gebod on Zeedijk.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you may cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start.

Is the tour accessible via public transportation?
Yes, the meeting points are near public transit options, making it easy to reach.

Is the tour family-friendly?
No, this experience is for adults 18+ only.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking through lively neighborhoods is recommended.

This guided journey through Amsterdam’s craft beer scene promises more than just drinks—it’s a lively, social, and tasty way to explore the city’s historic taverns and modern microbreweries. Perfect for those wanting a blend of culture, conversation, and quality brews.