Amsterdam: Guided Craft Beer Brewery Bus Tour with Tastings

Amsterdam is famous for its canals, art, and vibrant culture, but for beer lovers, its growing craft beer scene is a hidden gem worth exploring. For a practical and fun way to sample the city’s best brews, the Guided Craft Beer Brewery Bus Tour offers a three-hour journey through three local breweries, with tastings at each stop and an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at one of them. Priced at around $68 per person, this tour combines the ease of transportation with the expertise of a knowledgeable guide, making it a fantastic experience for those wanting to dive into authentic Amsterdam brewing.

What we love about this tour is the chance to visit distinctive microbreweries that each have their own character — from innovative new spots to established favorites. The beer tastings are well curated, giving you a real sense of the variety and quality of Amsterdam’s craft scene. Plus, the local guide’s expertise keeps the experience engaging and informative — you’ll leave with more than just a full belly. On the flip side, a possible consideration is that the tour is not wheelchair accessible, so it’s worth noting if you have mobility concerns.

This experience suits beer enthusiasts eager to learn about local brews, groups of friends looking for a relaxed social outing, or anyone wanting a taste of Amsterdam’s craft scene without the hassle of navigating bars or breweries on your own. If you enjoy lively stories, authentic flavors, and a bit of behind-the-scenes access, this tour might just become a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Authentic Local Breweries: Visit three different microbreweries, each with its own unique style.
• Expert Guidance: A knowledgeable beer guide enhances the experience with fun facts and insights.
• Inclusive Tastings: Nine total beer tastings across the stops, allowing you to compare and find favorites.
• Convenient Transport: Comfortable bus transfers make it easy to hop between breweries without worry.
• Exclusive Tour: One brewery offers an inside look, providing a rare behind-the-scenes perspective.
• Flexible & Easy: All-inclusive, with a duration of just three hours, perfect for a relaxed afternoon or early evening.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting from Overhoeksplein, just behind Amsterdam’s Central Station, the tour kicks off with an easy walk or quick ferry ride. This central location makes it simple to join if you’re already exploring the city. From there, you’ll hop on a bus that whisks you between three carefully selected breweries — each chosen for their quality, creativity, and local flavor.

First Stop: Oedipus Brewing — a well-respected microbrewery known for bold, inventive beers. Expect a 45-minute visit where you’ll sample some of their most popular brews. Visitors often comment on the well-curated selection and the friendly atmosphere. As one reviewer noted, “since I brew myself, I would have liked a little more information about the brewing process,” indicating that the tour strikes a good balance between education and enjoyment.

Second Stop: Craft Beer Brewery — this visit includes a guided tour, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at their brewing techniques and equipment. This is a real highlight for those interested in how the magic happens, with the added bonus of tasting some excellent beers. The 45-minute stop is carefully timed to keep things moving smoothly.

Final Stop: Breugem Beer — a cozy spot that offers a final tasting session, often praised for its local charm and quality brews. The 15-minute visit might be shorter, but it leaves you with a last impression of Amsterdam’s diverse craft beer offerings.

Throughout these stops, the bus transportation ensures a relaxed pace, with 15-minute transfers between breweries. The tour wraps up back at Overhoeksplein, making it convenient for those heading to dinner or other evening plans.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

What truly sets this tour apart is the combination of immersive brewery visits and expert guidance. The guide’s professional yet friendly approach, as highlighted by guests, makes the experience both educational and fun. For example, one traveler raved that “the guide was very professional, shared some fun facts, and it was such a fun trip.” These stories add context to each brewery’s history, brewing techniques, and the personalities behind the brands.

Another key feature is the exclusivity at one brewery — a rare chance to see the process up close, which many craft beer fans find fascinating. The wide variety of beers ensures that everyone finds something to enjoy, whether it’s a hoppy IPA, a smooth lager, or a seasonal special.

Tasting Experience and Value

The nine tastings spread across three breweries give you an excellent opportunity to compare flavors, styles, and brewing philosophies. Guests often mention the quality of the beers and the care taken in selecting the tastings, making this tour a worthwhile investment for beer lovers. While food isn’t included, you might find local bars or eateries nearby to complement your tasting adventure.

For the Curious and the Connoisseur

Reviews echo that this tour is ideal for those who enjoy a relaxed, social atmosphere — “excellent fun, great hosts, and guides,” as one guest put it. It’s perfect if you’re looking to learn more about craft beer without committing to a full brewery tour on your own. The tour is particularly suitable for groups of friends, couples, or solo travelers wanting a taste of Amsterdam’s brewing creativity.

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Practical Tips for Travelers

• Meeting Point: The bus departs from Overhoeksplein, easily accessible behind Central Station via the free ferry to Buiksloterweg. Look for the guide in a yellow shirt — easy to spot.
• Duration & Timing: The tour lasts about three hours, so plan accordingly if you’re on a tight schedule.
• Price & Value: At $68, the cost includes transportation, three brewery visits, nine tastings, and an expert guide — a solid deal for a curated craft beer experience.
• Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchair users, so consider this if mobility is a concern.
• Age Restrictions: Not suitable for those under 18, which is standard for alcohol-related tours.
• Cancellation & Flexibility: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance provides some peace of mind.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This brewery bus tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable experience for anyone interested in Amsterdam’s craft beer scene. The combination of local brewery visits, tastings, and behind-the-scenes insight makes it ideal for curious travelers wanting to deepen their appreciation of Dutch brewing. It’s especially good for small groups or friends who enjoy tasting, chatting about flavors, and discovering new favorites in a relaxed setting.

If you’re someone who appreciates the stories behind the beer, prefers an easy-paced day, and wants to visit multiple breweries without the hassle of organizing transport yourself, this tour delivers excellent value. Just remember, if mobility is an issue, you might need to look for alternative options.

This is a lively, engaging way to spend an afternoon in Amsterdam — one that offers both education and enjoyment, wrapped in a conveniently organized package. Whether you’re a craft beer aficionado or a casual drinker, you’ll likely find something to love in this well-curated tour experience.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 18 years due to alcohol consumption requirements.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately three hours, including transportation and visits to three breweries.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Overhoeksplein behind Central Station and returns to the same location at the end of the tour.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
No, the bus is not accessible for wheelchair users, so consider this if you have mobility needs.

Are food and snacks included?
No, the tour price covers only transportation, brewery visits, tastings, and guides. You can explore local eateries afterward.

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

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended, especially since you’ll be moving between breweries and on the bus.

This guided brewery bus tour combines the best of Amsterdam’s craft beer with the convenience of organized transportation and expert guidance. It’s a lively, authentic way to sample the city’s brewing craftsmanship and meet fellow beer enthusiasts. Whether you’re here for a short visit or a special weekend, it’s a memorable addition to your Amsterdam itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: