Lisbon: Craft Beer Tasting

Discover the Flavors of Portugal with a Craft Beer Tasting in Lisbon

Our review covers an experience that’s perfect for anyone interested in uncovering Portugal’s burgeoning brewing scene. While we haven’t personally tasted it, this craft beer tour promises a relaxed, engaging way to sample some of the country’s most intriguing local brews.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the incredible selection of Portuguese craft beers. Each visit offers a different lineup, with barrels changing daily so you can always expect something new and surprising. Second, the knowledgeable beer experts provide engaging explanations about each label, making the tasting both educational and fun. Third, the casual atmosphere makes it a great outing for friends or curious travelers wanting to learn more about Portugal’s craft beer evolution.

One potential consideration is the absence of food included in the tasting, which could be a drawback for those hoping for a full meal experience. However, the offering of a separate tasting menu at nearby Taverna das Marias means you can easily complement your drinks with delicious Portuguese dishes afterward.

This tour is best suited for beer lovers, foodies, or anyone eager to explore Lisbon’s culinary and beverage scene in a laid-back environment. It’s particularly appealing for travelers who enjoy discovering local brands and hearing stories behind each brew.

Good To Know

• Variety and freshness: Beers change daily, ensuring a different experience each time.
• Educational insights: Passionate beer experts share the stories behind each label.
• Authentic local brews: Focus on Portuguese craft beers, including award-winning options.
• Relaxed setting: Perfect for enjoying with friends in a casual atmosphere.
• Sampling experience: 10cl portions offer a perfect way to savor aromas and flavors.
• Additional food options: Nearby tasting menu available for pairing with beers.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An Introduction to Lisbon’s Craft Beer Scene

Portugal’s craft beer scene has been quietly growing over the last decade, and Lisbon is now home to a vibrant, diverse brewing community. This tour offers a window into that world, showcasing the creativity and craftsmanship of local brewers. For travelers who appreciate good beer and want to learn more about its production, this is a great way to get introduced.

The experience begins at the cozy Gastrobar Taverna das Marias, located conveniently near Campo das Cebolas and Terreiro do Paço. The meeting point is easily accessible via metro, and the activity concludes back at the starting location, making it easy to continue exploring the city afterward.

What to Expect on the Tour

The highlight of this experience is sampling five different Portuguese craft beers, each served in 10cl portions. This size is ideal for savoring aromas and flavors without feeling overwhelmed—a perfect way to explore variety without overindulgence.

The beers offered are a mix of styles, from light lagers to bold stouts and fruity sours. For example, the American Lager (8a Colina) is described as a crisp, dry, and slightly fruity brew, ideal for those who prefer a refreshing drink. The Zen Happy Lager balances citrus with bitterness and has an award-winning reputation, making it a crowd favorite. For more adventurous palates, the InConcert IPL offers a hybrid experience—a lager with the soul of an IPA, resinous and citrusy with a notable 50 IBU bitterness.

Fans of sour beers will enjoy the Raspberry Sour (HopSin), which combines the tartness of raspberries with a crisp acidity. Meanwhile, the Dry Stout (Cerveja Canil) offers a full-bodied, roasted profile, with toasted coffee and cocoa notes that make it both sophisticated and satisfying.

The barrels are always changing, so repeat visits will yield different labels and flavor profiles, keeping the experience fresh and engaging.

Why This Tour Is a Value

While the cost might seem modest, the value lies in the variety of beers, the expert guidance, and the chance to learn about Portuguese brewing. Each beer is carefully selected, with some having received awards or notable recognition (like the InConcert IPL, voted the best lager in Brazil). The tasting sessions are designed to be relaxed but informative, making it suitable for both casual drinkers and those wanting to deepen their appreciation of craft beers.

The tour includes five 10cl samples, enough to enjoy the complexity of each brew and appreciate the differences among styles. Plus, the opportunity to chat with passionate beer experts adds a layer of authenticity, giving you a richer understanding of the local brewing scene.

If you’re hungry after the tasting, the nearby Taverna das Marias offers a delicious tasting menu, perfect for pairing with your beers or simply enjoying some traditional Portuguese food.

The Experience in Detail

Starting at the Gastrobar Taverna das Marias, the experience is led by friendly, knowledgeable guides who speak both English and Portuguese. They’ll introduce each beer, sharing insights into the brewing process, ingredients, and what makes each label special. The staff’s enthusiasm helps create a laid-back atmosphere, ideal for relaxing and soaking in the flavors.

The barrel selection is a highlight, with constantly rotating choices that reflect the best of what Portuguese breweries have to offer. Guests have reported that the beers are always changing, which means returning travelers or locals can enjoy different labels on different visits.

One reviewer, Charles, noted, “I did not realize the craft beer scene that has been brewing here in Portugal, and this tasting helped me see some of it.” Such comments underline how this experience can be eye-opening for those unfamiliar with Portugal’s craft brewing efforts.

The timing is flexible, with starting times available throughout the day (check availability). The duration is designed to be relaxed—enough time to savor each sip and engage with the guides—making it a perfect afternoon activity.

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Additional Tips for Visitors

• Arrive early or on time to get the full experience, especially since the barrels change daily.
• Send an email confirming your arrival time when booking, as the guides prepare accordingly.
• If you’re hungry, plan to visit the Taverna das Marias afterward for a full Portuguese meal—it’s not included in the tasting but highly recommended.
• The price is reasonable considering the quality and variety of beers, along with the expertise provided.
• This tour is suitable for both beer novices and connoisseurs—the explanations are accessible yet informative.

The Sum Up

This craft beer tasting in Lisbon offers a fantastic way to explore Portugal’s emerging brewing scene in a relaxed, friendly setting. The variety of award-winning and surprise labels, combined with insightful commentary from passionate guides, makes it a memorable experience for beer lovers and curious travelers alike.

Ideal for those who enjoy discovering new flavors or want to learn more about Portuguese craftsmanship, the tour provides impressive value for its price. The informal atmosphere means you’ll feel comfortable asking questions and savoring each sip, making it a perfect addition to your Lisbon itinerary.

While it doesn’t include food, nearby options allow you to turn this tasting into a full meal, pairing perfectly with Portuguese tapas or traditional dishes. Whether you’re a craft beer novice or a seasoned enthusiast, this experience promises a flavorful journey through Lisbon’s brewing landscape.

FAQs

What’s included in the tour?
You’ll taste five Portuguese craft beers, each served in 10cl portions, selected to showcase a variety of styles and flavors. The experience is guided by passionate beer experts.

Is food included?
No, food isn’t part of the tasting session. However, a nearby tasting menu at Taverna das Marias offers delicious Portuguese dishes to enjoy afterward.

How do I confirm my booking?
When booking, it’s recommended to send an email confirming your preferred arrival time so the guides can prepare accordingly.

Can I join the tour if I don’t drink alcohol?
This tour is focused on craft beer tasting, so it’s best suited for those who are comfortable sampling beer. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, you might want to look for other experiences.

What is the duration of the experience?
The tasting typically lasts long enough to enjoy each of the five beers comfortably, with the start times flexible across the day—check availability when booking.

Are the beers always the same?
No, the barrels change daily, so each visit can offer a different selection. This keeps the experience fresh even for repeat visitors.

Is the tour suitable for a group?
Yes, the relaxed atmosphere makes it ideal for groups of friends or couples seeking a fun, sociable experience.

This craft beer tasting in Lisbon offers an authentic taste of Portugal’s brewing advances, presented in a friendly, approachable way. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or simply curious about local flavors, it provides both education and enjoyment in one relaxed session.

You can check if your dates are available here: