Budapest: Brewery Tour at “First Craft Beer” & Beer Tasting

Budapest: Brewery Tour at “First Craft Beer” & Beer Tasting — A Complete Guide

Exploring Budapest’s vibrant craft beer scene is a must for beer lovers, and the First Craft Beer Brewery Tour offers an engaging way to do just that. This tour combines a visit to one of Budapest’s most modern breweries with tasting sessions and educational insights that go beyond just sipping beers.

What makes this experience stand out? We love the chance to see state-of-the-art brewing equipment, learn about unique beer styles, and taste a variety of beers, from classic IPAs to inventive sour beers. We also appreciate the personal stories from staff who often guide the tour, making it more authentic.

That said, a potential consideration is the duration—at just 60 minutes, it’s a quick overview, which might leave some wanting more detail or tasting options. Still, this tour is best suited for those curious about brewing, eager to sample fresh craft beers, and wanting a behind-the-scenes look at Budapest’s burgeoning craft beer scene.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Authentic brewery experience in one of Budapest’s most modern craft breweries.
• Educational insights into ingredients, brewing process, and beer styles.
• Tastings include four different beers, allowing you to compare styles and flavors.
• Interactive tour led by brewery staff, often including a brewer or staff member.
• Small group setting for a more personalized experience.
• Ideal for beer enthusiasts, those interested in brewing, or travelers seeking local authentic experiences.

Why This Tour Works for Travelers

This brewery tour offers a well-rounded taste of Budapest’s craft beer world, perfect for those who want more than just a tasting session. You’ll come away with a better understanding of beer styles like IPAs and sour beers, plus insights into ingredients such as malted barley and hops. It’s especially appealing if you’re curious about how modern breweries operate—seeing the machines and technologies firsthand adds an educational layer to the fun.

The guided aspect means you get to ask questions directly to the staff, which often includes brewers or other brewery team members—something many tours lack. Plus, the four tastings (each 2 deciliters) give a good sample without becoming overwhelming. The tasting of ingredients like malted barley and hops helps to demystify what goes into your favorite beers, adding depth to your drinking experience.

Detailed Breakdown of the Tour Experience

Meeting Point and Start

The tour begins inside the SelfStore courtyard at Váci út 83, specifically in the FIRST Taproom. The meeting spot is easy to access—just enter via the car entrance to the courtyard, which is convenient if you’re already in Budapest. The guide is usually someone working at the brewery, like a brewer or sales team member, which adds a layer of authenticity and makes the conversation more engaging.

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Duration and Schedule

With a one-hour session, you get a concise but rundown. Tours are available in Hungarian and English, with specific start times after 18:00 on weekdays and after 14:00 on Saturdays, making it flexible for evening or weekend plans. Note that minimum group size is three, so it’s best suited for small groups or private bookings.

The Tour Itself

As you step into the brewery, you’ll be introduced to the machinery and brewing process, including explanations about the equipment used to brew and the significance of various ingredients like hops and malted barley. The guide will take you around each station, explaining how the beer is made from start to finish.

A highlight is the opportunity to try malted barley and hops—a rare chance to taste ingredients that usually stay hidden behind the scenes. This sensory experience helps you appreciate the complexity and craftsmanship behind each brew.

The Beers You’ll Taste

The tasting includes four 2-deciliter beers, giving you a generous amount of samples to enjoy. You might find yourself sipping on India Pale Ales (IPAs), known for their hoppy bitterness and aromatic profile, or sampling fruited sour beers that offer a tart, refreshing twist. The brewery’s Small Batch range—beers brewed only once—adds an exciting element of exclusivity and discovery.

Many reviewers praise the variety, noting that the tastings are well curated and showcase the brewery’s creativity. One reviewer mentioned, “The IPAs were punchy and aromatic, and the sour beers had a beautiful balance of fruitiness and acidity.”

Behind the Scenes

The tour also offers insights into technological innovations like canning and brewing automation. While not all equipment is accessible to visitors, you’ll get a good understanding of how a modern craft brewery operates.

The brewery’s history—since opening in 2017 and brewing over 3 million liters—adds a layer of credibility and showcases Budapest’s thriving craft beer scene. Learning about their Small Batch beers is especially interesting, as these are made only once in a lifetime—perfect for beer aficionados eager for unique experiences.

The Value of the Experience

While the price point might seem modest, the value is evident in the educational component, personalized tour, and quality tastings. Unlike larger beer tours, this one emphasizes quality over quantity, giving you a deeper understanding of each beer style. The inclusion of ingredient tastings and insights into brewing technologies elevates the experience beyond just drinking.

For those who cherish authentic, small-scale craftsmanship, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suitable if you’re interested in learning about craft beer production rather than just sampling beer in a bar.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for beer enthusiasts, foodies, or anyone curious about how craft beers are made. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a personalized experience and a glimpse into Budapest’s local craft scene. Since it’s limited to private groups, you’ll enjoy a more intimate setting, allowing questions and interactions with staff.

However, it’s not suitable for unaccompanied minors, pregnant women, or those under 18, as it involves tasting alcohol. The tour is also not recommended for people over 70, unless they are comfortable with the physical aspects of the visit.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: 1 hour, suitable for those with limited time.
• Availability: Tours run after 18:00 on weekdays and after 14:00 on Saturdays.
• Group Size: Private groups with a minimum of 3 people.
• Language: Tours are available in Hungarian and English.
• Cost: The experience includes guided tour, four tastings, and ingredient insights, offering good value for beer lovers.
• Booking: Reserve in advance, and you can cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund.
• Accessibility: The meeting point is straightforward, but check for any mobility restrictions if necessary.

The Sum Up

The Budapest Brewery Tour at First Craft Beer offers a wonderfully balanced mix of education, authentic local culture, and tasty experiences. It’s best suited for travelers who want to understand the craft behind their beers and enjoy a personalized, behind-the-scenes look at a thriving Budapest brewery.

If you’re a beer lover eager to discover the nuances of different styles or simply want an authentic local experience, this tour provides excellent value. The small group setting, guided insights, and focus on ingredients and brewing technology distinguish it from larger, more superficial beer tastings.

For anyone wanting to add a craft beer focus to their Budapest trip, this tour will deepen your appreciation for Hungarian brewing ingenuity while giving you some delicious samples to enjoy during your stay.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-English speakers?
Yes, tours are available in both Hungarian and English, so language shouldn’t be a barrier.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 60 minutes, making it a quick yet comprehensive experience.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, unaccompanied minors, pregnant women, children under 18, and people over 70 are not suitable for this tour.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes a guided visit to the brewery, four 2-dl beer tastings, and a tasting of malted barley and hops.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, the experience is designed for private groups, offering a more personalized feel.

What types of beers will I taste?
You’ll sample a variety including IPAs, fruited sour beers, and possibly some special limited-range brews.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
The provided details don’t specify accessibility features; it’s best to inquire directly for specific needs.

How many people are typically in a group?
Since it’s a private group experience, the group size depends on your reservation, but it requires a minimum of three.

Do I need to prepare anything before the tour?
Just arrive at the meeting point on time! No special preparation needed, but consider arriving a few minutes early to settle in.

Embark on this craft beer journey in Budapest for a taste of local ingenuity and brewing expertise. Cheers!

You can check if your dates are available here: