The Ultimate Craft Beer Adventure in Amsterdam!

Experience the Best of Amsterdam’s Craft Beer Scene in Just Over Three Hours

Imagine strolling through Amsterdam’s historic streets, from the iconic Dam Square to the lively Red Light District, all while tasting some of the finest Dutch craft beers. This tour, priced at approximately $125.61 per person, lasts roughly 3 hours and 30 minutes, making it a perfect afternoon activity for beer enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. Led by knowledgeable guides, this experience offers a well-balanced mix of history, local culture, and beer tasting that can appeal to both seasoned drinkers and newcomers to craft beer.

Two things we particularly love about this tour are its careful selection of stops—ranging from century-old bars to modern microbreweries—and the tastings of award-winning Dutch beers that are not readily available elsewhere. The inclusion of Dutch snacks alongside beers enhances the experience, giving you a taste of local flavors. However, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour does not include lunch, so you might want to arrive with a light appetite or plan to supplement your experience afterward.

This tour is perfect for those who enjoy learning local stories and want a relaxed, social atmosphere. If you’re a beer lover looking to deepen your appreciation of Dutch brewing craftsmanship while exploring Amsterdam’s charming streets, this experience offers genuine value and authentic moments. It’s also an excellent choice for solo travelers or small groups seeking a friendly, intimate setting with a maximum of ten participants.

Key Points

• Authentic Local Experience: Visit historic bars and modern microbreweries in Amsterdam’s most vibrant neighborhoods.
• Expert-guided Tour: Knowledgeable guides share fascinating stories and insights into Dutch beer culture.
• Tastings & Snacks: Sample award-winning craft beers and Dutch snacks that complement each other well.
• Flexible & Convenient: 3.5-hour tour with a mobile ticket, starting at Dam Square and ending in the Red Light District.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups ensure a personalized experience, with a maximum of 10 travelers.
• Free Cancellation: Full refund available if canceled 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind.

A Detailed Look at the Amsterdam Craft Beer Tour

Starting Point: Dam Square and the Nieuwe Kerk

Your journey begins at Dam Square, a central hub of activity and history. The guide introduces the day’s plan, setting a relaxed tone. Just a short walk away, you’ll visit Nieuwe Kerk, a stunning historic church (though admission isn’t included). Here, you get a quick taste of Amsterdam’s architectural charm and the significance of these old landmarks.

Visiting De Drie Fleschjes: A 300-Year-Old Jenever House

Next, you step into De Drie Fleschjes, a charming bar with over 300 years of history. This spot is special—here, you get to taste Dutch jenever, the traditional spirit that was a favorite of Rembrandt himself. The atmosphere is cozy and full of stories, where you can learn about local drinking customs and enjoy timeless tales that have kept this bar thriving through centuries.

This stop is free to enter, and the experience of tasting authentic Dutch spirits along with storytelling makes it an eye-opener—something you might not find on every tourist circuit.

Strolling the Canals to Singel

From there, you’ll walk along Amsterdam’s iconic canals, taking in the stunning views that have made this city famous worldwide. The walk itself is a delightful way to appreciate the city’s architecture and vibe, and it sets the scene for the next stops, which focus on showcasing Dutch craft beers.

Proeflokaal Arendsnest: A Beer Destination

Your next stop is Proeflokaal Arendsnest, a beloved Dutch beer bar recognized by RateBeer as one of the “Best Bars” in 2019. Here, you’ll find 52 local craft beers on tap, a true paradise for beer enthusiasts. The owner’s story reveals the passion behind the bar’s success, and you’ll enjoy tasting some of the best Dutch brews paired with cheeses, enhancing the flavors.

Guests rave about this spot, with one reviewer mentioning that the award-winning Dutch craft beers made for an unforgettable experience. It’s a place where you can appreciate the craftsmanship and dedication that goes into each brew.

Visiting In de Wildeman: A Historic Brown Cafe

The tour continues at In de Wildeman, another RateBeer award winner and a true craft beer temple. This historic brown cafe offers an authentic Dutch pub atmosphere, where you can sample local craft beers and enjoy classic Dutch bar snacks. The setting is laid-back but vibrant, often filled with beer connoisseurs and locals alike.

Guests have noted that the delicious local beers and the relaxed ambiance make this stop a highlight. The owner’s focus on local brews makes it a great place to deepen your appreciation of Dutch beer culture.

Microbrewery Brouwerij de Prael

The tour then takes you through Amsterdam’s most famous neighborhood, the Red Light District, to reach Brouwerij de Prael, one of the city’s first microbreweries. This stop is especially meaningful because you’re visiting a locally loved, independent brewery that has a story—blending tradition with innovation.

Here, you’ll taste a selection of craft beers crafted on-site, along with home-cooked Dutch snacks. You’ll see how small-scale brewing can produce high-quality, distinctive beers that often win awards. This microbrewery is a perfect culmination to the tour, offering insights into the brewing process and a taste of real craftsmanship.

Final Notes on the Experience

Throughout the tour, guides like Michael (mentioned in reviews) provide engaging commentary, sharing insights into Dutch beer history and culture. The small group size ensures that conversations are lively and personalized, and the walk through vibrant neighborhoods makes the experience both educational and visually appealing.

The tour ends either at the brewery or the Zeedijk in the Red Light District, giving you plenty of options to continue exploring or to relax with your new favorite beers.

What Travelers Say

One reviewer summed it up beautifully: “Michael was a fantastic guide and shared some great info about the city and the stops along the way.” They appreciated the diverse group of people and the friendly atmosphere. The combination of history, stories, and excellent beer clearly resonates with participants.

Another highlight from reviews is the quality of the tastings—awarding Dutch beers that many hadn’t tried before, and pairing them with Dutch snacks, made the experience feel both authentic and delicious. The stops are well-chosen, balancing historic ambiance with modern craft brewing.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who enjoys craft beer, local stories, and small-group experiences, this tour is a real winner. It’s especially suitable if you want to combine sightseeing with tasting in a relaxed environment. The focus on Dutch beers and snacks provides a genuine taste of Amsterdam’s brewing culture, making it ideal for foodies, beer aficionados, or travelers seeking authentic experiences.

While the tour offers a rundown of Amsterdam’s beer scene, it’s best suited for those with a moderate interest in beer—not necessarily connoisseurs, but anyone eager to learn and taste some excellent brews in a lively setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beer beginners?
Yes, the tour is great for all levels. Guides explain the beers and culture, making it accessible for those new to craft beer.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, including walks and tastings.

What’s included in the price?
You’ll enjoy a curated selection of Dutch spirits and 5–6 award-winning beers, plus Dutch snacks.

Are there any additional costs?
No, the tour does not include lunch or extra drinks, but you can purchase additional items during stops.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Dam Square and ends in the Red Light District, either at Brouwerij de Prael or Zeedijk.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, on average, this tour is booked about 42 days in advance to secure a spot.

Is the tour suitable for children or non-drinkers?
It’s primarily designed for adults interested in beer tasting, but non-drinkers can still enjoy the sights and stories.

What’s the maximum group size?
A small group of up to 10 travelers ensures a personalized experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.

Is this tour accessible via public transportation?
Yes, it’s near public transit options, making it easy to reach from most parts of the city.

Final Thoughts

This craft beer adventure in Amsterdam offers a friendly and flavorful immersion into the city’s brewing culture. From historic bars to innovative microbreweries, the stops are thoughtfully chosen to showcase both tradition and innovation. The small group size and expert guides make the experience enriching and engaging, perfect for those wanting to explore Dutch culture through its beers.

If you’re a traveler who enjoys tasting local beverages while exploring vibrant neighborhoods, this tour will satisfy both your curiosity and your palate. It’s a fun, relaxed way to connect with Amsterdam’s lively spirit, learning stories and sipping some of the best beers the city has to offer.

Whether you’re visiting solo, with a partner, or in a small group of friends, this tour promises a memorable, authentic experience that highlights the best of what Amsterdam’s craft beer scene has to offer.