Exploring Barcelona’s Craft Beer Scene: A Genuine Look at the Beer Tour Experience
If you’ve ever wondered what makes Barcelona’s craft beer scene tick, this tour offers a perfect blend of behind-the-scenes insights and lively bar hopping. While we haven’t personally taken it, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s an authentic and engaging way for beer lovers to dive into local brewing culture.
What sets this experience apart? Firstly, the personalized approach—with group sizes capped at 10, you’re guaranteed plenty of interaction and personalized attention. Secondly, the opportunity to meet local brewers—an exclusive peek into the brewing process that’s often hidden from the casual drinker. Thirdly, the generous tastings—not just small samples, but large glasses that make every sip worth savoring.
One possible consideration is that this tour is relatively short, around 2 to 3 hours, so those looking for a more extensive brewery crawl might want to supplement this with other activities. Still, for anyone curious about craft beer, or seeking a fun, social outing in Barcelona, this tour hits the right notes.
This experience is ideal for beer enthusiasts, travelers keen to learn about local brewing, or those who enjoy small-group tours with plenty of interaction and authentic insight.
Good To Know
- Intimate Group Setting: Small groups of no more than 10 make for engaging conversations and personalized attention.
- Behind-the-Scenes Access: Meet local brewers and learn about the brewing process directly from those who craft the beers.
- Tastings & Glass Sizes: Expect a variety of samples plus three large glasses of beer during the bar visits.
- Authentic Local Experience: The tour emphasizes independent, local craft breweries and bars, giving a real taste of Barcelona’s craft scene.
- Knowledgeable Guides: Reviewers praise guides like Kiki for their friendliness and deep knowledge of the local beer landscape.
- Flexible & Convenient: Starts at BlackLab Brewhouse & Kitchen with a tour that ends at the same meeting point, making it easy to plan the rest of your day.
The Itinerary in Detail
Enjoying the local flavors? More Barcelona food experiences we've written about
Stop 1: BlackLab Brewhouse & Kitchen
The tour kicks off at BlackLab Brewhouse & Kitchen, where you’ll be introduced to the craft beer scene with a behind-the-scenes tour led by the head brewer, Matt. Known for being personable and knowledgeable, Matt’s detailed explanations make the brewing process accessible and interesting for all levels of beer lovers. As one reviewer, Greg, mentions, “Matt gave us a detailed tour of the facility, explaining the process from start to finish,” which adds a layer of appreciation for what goes into each pint.
This stop is more than just a tasting; it’s an educational experience that allows you to see the equipment, learn about ingredients, and understand the craft behind each brew. The inclusion of a professional brewery tour makes this segment stand out, transforming a simple tasting into a learning session.
Bar Hopping: Three Local Craft Beer Bars
After the brewery visit, the tour moves on to three separate craft beer bars, each with its own vibe and specialty brews. These venues are carefully selected to showcase Barcelona’s diverse and growing craft beer scene. Expect to enjoy a large glass of beer in each venue, which adds value and ensures you get a true tasting experience.
Reviewers like Tina highlight this aspect: “Tasted four beers and learned a lot about the brewing process,” emphasizing how the visits to these bars aren’t just about drinking but also about gaining knowledge. The bars are lively, welcoming, and packed with local character—perfect for those who love discovering new hangouts.
The Experience with Kiki
Many reviewers mention guide Kiki’s personable nature and extensive knowledge. Simon describes her as “a warm and friendly person who knows the city well,” and she makes the tour both fun and informative. Her knack for keeping great conversation going, combined with her ability to share insider tips, elevates the experience. Plus, she’s available on WhatsApp after the tour, maintaining contact and answering questions—something that adds a personal touch many travelers appreciate.
The Value of the Tour
At $56.17 per person, this tour offers a solid value, especially considering the personalized brewery tour, the three large beer glasses, and the intimate group size. The price covers not just the drinks but also an educational component and access to local artisans, making it more than just a pub crawl.
While it doesn’t include breakfast or additional meals, the focus on craft beer and the opportunity to learn about local brewing trends makes it a worthwhile experience for beer aficionados. The tour’s small-group setup also ensures you won’t feel lost in the crowd, fostering genuine conversations and shared discoveries.
Like the nightlife scene? More after-dark Barcelona activities we've covered
- Barcelona: New Year’s Eve Night Out With 90-Minute Open Bar
- Barcelona: Catalan Nightlife Pub Crawl Tour & VIP Club Entry
- Barcelona Pub Crawl With Free Shots and Free Club Entry
- Nightlife Tour – Barcelona Bar Crawl With Flamingos
- Barcelona: Original Pub Crawl
- Barcelona Pub Crawl With Free Shots and Free Club Entry
Duration & Practicalities
At about 2 to 3 hours, the tour is a perfect length for those with a busy schedule or who want a relaxed experience rather than an all-day affair. The start and end point are conveniently located at BlackLab Brewhouse & Kitchen, near public transportation, which simplifies logistics.
Booking & Cancellation
Most travelers book about a month in advance, indicating good popularity and a desire for planning. The tour can be canceled free of charge up to 24 hours beforehand, providing peace of mind if your plans change unexpectedly.
Why This Tour Works Well
This experience is a fantastic choice for those who want to gain authentic insights into Barcelona’s craft beer scene without just sampling pints blindly. The combination of educational stops, personal interaction with brewers, and well-chosen bar visits makes it more meaningful than a typical pub crawl.
It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate small group dynamics, want to learn about the brewing process, or simply enjoy trying new beers in a lively, friendly environment. The knowledgeable guides, like Kiki and Matt, make the experience approachable regardless of your prior familiarity with craft beer.
The Bottom Line
This Barcelona craft beer tour offers a perfect balance between learning and fun, wrapped up in an intimate group setting. For around $56, you get a behind-the-scenes look at a local brewery, three sizable tastings, and the chance to explore the city’s vibrant craft beer scene.
If you’re a beer lover seeking an authentic, engaging, and educational experience, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s also excellent for those who enjoy meeting passionate locals and discovering hidden gems in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.
While it’s not a lengthy tour, its depth and personalized approach make it a worthwhile addition to any Barcelona itinerary—especially if you’re eager to understand and appreciate the city’s brewing culture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes a behind-the-scenes brewery tour at BlackLab Brewhouse, visits to three local craft beer bars, and three large glasses of beer at each venue.
How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 to 3 hours, making it a manageable activity that fits well into a day of sightseeing.
What is the group size?
Groups are limited to 10 participants, ensuring an intimate experience with plenty of interaction.
Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. The tour is designed for those interested in craft beer and local culture.
Do I need to book in advance?
It’s recommended to book about 28 days in advance, as it tends to fill up quickly.
Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends at BlackLab Brewhouse & Kitchen near Ciutat Vella, which is accessible via public transportation.
Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.
Are there any food options included?
No, breakfast or food is not included in the tour. It focuses on beer tasting and education.
Who is the guide?
The tour is led by knowledgeable guides like Kiki, known for their friendliness, city knowledge, and ability to make the experience engaging.
Is transportation provided between stops?
No, transportation isn’t provided between stops, but all venues are within walking distance or easily accessible.
More Food & Drink Tours in Barcelona
- A vegan food tour in Barcelona
- Tarragona: History & Olive Oil tasting from Barcelona
- Tapas Tasting Bike/E-Bike Tour in Barcelona
- Sailing and Wine Tasting Experience Small Group in Barcelona
- From Barcelona Wine Tasting in 2 Priorat Wineries and Food
- From Barcelona: Wine Tasting & Tapas + MARIMURTRA Garden + Blanes
More Tours in Barcelona
More Tour Reviews in Barcelona
Looking for something different? Other Barcelona activities we've written about
- Welcome to Barcelona Segway and eScooter Tour
- Barcelona: Skyline sailing tour with music and drink
- Barcelona 1-hour Boat Trip with Cava and Snacks
- Visit Casa Batlló by Gaudí all included
- A vegan food tour in Barcelona
- Eixample Unwrapped A Vegan Tour in Barcelona
- Catalonia Private Tour with Medieval Towns and Montserrat with Transport
- Lights and Shadows of the Sagrada Familia With Ticket And Guide
- The Wine Casino
- The most complete & tailored Montserrat: beyond the monastery
- Barcelona Old Town Walking Tour & Panoramic Views
- Barcelona Airport Departure Transfers