Bruges is a city that beautifully combines remarkable medieval charm with a lively, beer-loving culture. Its well-preserved historic center offers a perfect backdrop for drinking tours that range from brewery visits to chocolate and waffle workshops. Whether you’re into sampling local brews, learning how to make Belgian waffles, or pairing chocolate with beer, Bruges has options that suit all tastes. We’re particularly fond of tours that mix cultural insights with tasty treats, like the Bruges: Guided Tour & Boat Ride with Optional Beer Tasting, which combines sightseeing, a canal cruise, and a beer tasting for a well-rounded experience.
If you’re looking for a fun, hands-on activity, the Belgian Waffle-Making Workshop with Beer Tasting offers a chance to learn the art of waffle-making while tasting some of Belgium’s finest brews. For those who enjoy more in-depth exploration, the Bourgogne des Flandres Brewery and Distillery Visit provides insight into brewing and distillation processes with plenty of samples. With options like these, Bruges promises a memorable tasting experience that combines history, craftsmanship, and fun.
Quick Overview
Bruges is packed with tours that focus on beer, chocolate, and waffles, some with guided visits to breweries and others with interactive workshops. Highlights include self-guided brewery tours, chocolate and beer pairing classes, and private beer and chocolate tastings. Prices range from budget-friendly options like the Bourgogne des Flandres Brewery at $18, to more immersive experiences such as the Private Beer & Chocolate Tour for $295. The list below details some of the best options for every type of traveler.
1. Bruges: Guided Tour & Boat Ride with Optional Beer Tasting
This tour offers a wonderful introduction to Bruges’ medieval beauty combined with a scenic canal cruise. Starting with a guided walk through the UNESCO World Heritage Site, you’ll explore landmarks like the Church of Our Lady and Walplein Square. Afterward, enjoy a boat ride along the canals, where the city’s old-world charm is best appreciated from the water. For an extra dose of local flavor, you can add an optional beer tasting at the end, making it perfect for those wanting a balanced mix of sightseeing and tasting. With a 4.4/5 rating based on over 3,400 reviews and a reasonable price of $43, it offers great value for a 2.5-3 hour experience.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of history, scenic views, and flavor—plus the flexibility to tailor your experience with the beer tasting. It’s best suited for travelers who want a rundown of Bruges with a light tasting component. A potential downside is the itinerary’s busy schedule, which might feel rushed if you prefer slow-paced explorations. Bottom line: a solid choice for first-time visitors wanting it all in one tour.
2. Bruges: Belgian Waffle-Making Workshop with Beer Tasting
For around $60, this interactive workshop combines the joys of baking with sampling Belgian beers. You’ll learn how to prepare waffle batter, cook them in authentic waffle irons, and top your creations with toppings of your choice. The experience includes tasting three Belgian beers, with a focus on understanding their unique characteristics. The small-group format ensures plenty of personal attention, and you get to take home your own waffle recipe.
The reviews highlight how friendly and engaging the host is, making this activity both fun and educational. It’s perfect if you want a hands-on experience and enjoy sweet treats paired with beer. The duration of 1.5 hours makes it easy to fit into a day of sightseeing. The only potential downside is that if you prefer a guided city tour rather than a culinary activity, this might not be the best fit. Bottom line: a fun, tasty experience ideal for food lovers and craft enthusiasts.
3. The Waffles ‘n Beer Workshop in Bruges Centre
This waffle and beer tasting session offers a deep dive into Belgium’s culinary traditions. Starting with a Belgian beer tasting of three local brews, you’ll then learn to make waffles from scratch with a Belgian expert. Afterward, you’ll sample your freshly made waffles with toppings and more beer, all in a cozy setting. The small group size ensures personalized attention, and you leave with your own waffle recipe.
Guests rave about the enthusiastic host and the blend of learning and tasting. At just 1.5 hours, it’s a quick yet satisfying way to indulge in Bruges’ famous beer and waffle culture. The experience is perfect for those wanting a culinary hands-on activity and who enjoy local flavor. A potential drawback could be the limited duration for those looking for a more extensive workshop. Bottom line: an excellent choice for foodies eager to learn and taste.
4. Bruges: Bourgogne des Flandres Brewery and Distillery Visit
This self-guided audio tour provides insight into the Bourgogne des Flandres Brewery, where you’ll see live brewing in action and learn about the ingredients and process. After exploring the brewery, you can enjoy a taste of their beer or genever at their bar, with views overlooking Bruges’ canals. The tour costs only $18 for all-day access, making it budget-friendly.
Guests praise the interactive audio guide for its fun, accessible info, and the beers are described as quite unique. It’s ideal for those who prefer a flexible, independent experience without a tour guide. The view from the canal terrace adds a special touch. The main limitation is that it’s a self-guided experience, which may lack the personal touch some prefer. Bottom line: great for budget-conscious travelers wanting an authentic brewing insight.
5. Bruges: History, Chocolate and Beer Walking Tour
This 3.5-hour tour combines Bruges’ historic sights with visits to a chocolate shop and a local brewery. Led by an experienced local guide, you’ll see landmarks like the Beguinage and Burg Square while hearing stories that bring the city alive. Afterward, indulge in a chocolate tasting and tour a scenic brewery with beer samples.
Reviewers commend the personalized guide and the insider tips on where to eat afterward. This tour is perfect for travelers who want a balance of history, culture, and tasting. Its detailed itinerary makes it a good value at $62, especially for those who appreciate storytelling. The potential downside is the longer duration, which may not suit travelers with tight schedules. Bottom line: a comprehensive experience blending education and indulgence.
6. Bruges: Belgian Chocolate Making Workshop with Beer Tasting
For chocolate lovers, this 2-hour workshop offers a chance to make Belgian pralines from scratch, with guidance from a local host. The experience also includes tasting various Belgian beers and, of course, sampling your own chocolates. You’ll learn secrets of chocolate making and leave with your handmade chocolates.
Guests describe the host as knowledgeable, friendly, and funny, which makes the activity both educational and fun. It’s best suited for those who want a creative and tasty activity, not just a tasting. The price of $56 is reasonable considering you leave with your own chocolates and new skills. A downside could be the relatively short duration if you’re looking for an extended workshop. Bottom line: perfect for chocolate aficionados seeking a hands-on class.
7. Guided tour of Bruges and Boat Tour (+ beer tasting opt)
This 3.5-hour guided tour explores the city on foot, visiting Minnewater Lake, the Beguinage, and the Market Square, with a scenic boat ride as the highlight. You can add an optional beer tasting at the end. The guide, Maria, is praised for her humor and knowledge, making the city’s hidden corners come alive.
The tour costs about $41.27 and suits travelers who want a thorough city exploration with canal views. While some reviews mention that the guide rushed through parts of the tour, the overall experience offers great value. Best for those wanting a rundown with some relaxing water views. Bottom line: a well-rounded option blending culture and scenery with the chance for beer tasting.
8. Bruges Beer Tasting Experience (with cheese!)
Ideal for social drinkers, this beer tasting session features 6 Belgian beers paired with cheese and salami. Held at a cozy local venue, it lasts about 1.5 hours and is praised for its fun stories and friendly guide. It’s a great way to sample a variety of beers while enjoying some snacks.
With a rating of 4.9/5 and a price of $44, it offers excellent value for a relaxed, social experience. It’s perfect if you want to try different beers in a casual setting. The only potential downside is the limited duration, which might leave you wanting more. Bottom line: a fun, flavorful way to enjoy Belgian beer culture with food.
9. Bruges: Belgian Beer Tour with Chocolate Pairing
This 2.5-3 hour tour combines beer tasting with a chocolate pairing, led by a passionate local guide. You’ll visit a hidden brewery, participate in a beer game, and learn about Belgian brewing traditions while tasting artisan chocolates.
Guests mention how engaging and informative the guide is, making it an interactive experience. The value of $73 is balanced by the quality of tastings and local insights. It’s well suited for beer and chocolate lovers who want a deeper understanding of Belgian traditions. The slightly higher price might be a concern for budget travelers. Bottom line: a great choice for those seeking pairings and stories.
10. Bruges Beer Experience Entrance Ticket
This interactive museum offers a self-guided exploration of Belgian beer’s history, with exhibits on monks, brewing, and food pairing. For just $16.26, you get access to a high-tech audio guide, a bar with more than a dozen beers, and a kid-friendly non-alcoholic tour.
The museum is praised for its engaging displays and variety of beers, making it good value for the price. It’s ideal for those wanting a flexible, educational experience without a guide. The main drawback is that it’s self-guided, which may lack the personal touch some prefer. Bottom line: an affordable, enriching stop for beer enthusiasts.
11. Bruges Beer Tour with chocolate pairing by a young local
This small-group walking tour lasts about 2.5 hours and features several beer tastings with artisan chocolates. Led by a passionate local, you’ll visit unique venues and learn about Bruges’ beer scene, including local beers, trappist ales, and Lambics.
Rated 5.0/5 with just 9 reviews, guests love the personalized attention and off-the-beaten-path locations. It’s perfect for beer fans wanting an intimate, behind-the-scenes experience. At $63.05, it’s slightly more premium, but the quality of guidance and tastings justifies the cost. Bottom line: an excellent choice for beer connoisseurs seeking a more personal experience.
12. Bruges: 3-Hour Beer and Chocolate Tasting Private Tour
For a luxury experience, this private 3-hour tour combines visits to the Choco-Story Museum, a famous brewery, and a three-course lunch. It offers personalized attention with an expert guide leading the way, ideal for a special occasion or a gift.
Guests find the tour professional and interesting, with ample tastings and cultural insights. It’s priced at $295 per person, reflecting its exclusivity. Best suited for travelers seeking a premium, private experience. The main consideration is the cost, which might be prohibitive for some. Bottom line: perfect for special trips or those wanting a tailored, comprehensive experience.
13. Private: Discover Bruges beers & brewery with chocolate pairing by a young local
This personalized private tour offers a 3-hour exploration of Bruges’ top beer venues, including a local brewery and legendary beer bars. You’ll try four different beers, including Trappist and Lambic, with local chocolate pairings.
Rated 5.0/5, guides customize the experience based on your interests, making it highly tailored. The $300.98 price reflects its exclusive nature, perfect for beer aficionados wanting a luxury, private experience. The main downside is the price, but it’s well worth it for personalized attention. Bottom line: an outstanding choice for serious beer lovers wanting a private, in-depth experience.
14. Bruges Beer and Chocolate Walking Tour
This 4-hour guided walk combines Bruges’ iconic beer and chocolate traditions. The tour includes a visit to Straffe Hendrick Brewery with three tastings and three chocolate samples. The walk passes by major sights and offers a taste of local life.
Guests mention the friendly guide and the balance of sightseeing and tasting. It’s a solid pick for those wanting a longer, comprehensive tour at $101. Its main appeal is the combination of beer and chocolate in a relaxed setting. The only drawback might be the duration if you prefer shorter experiences. Bottom line: ideal for culinary explorers and fans of both beer and chocolate.
15. Evening Delights: Bruges Tour with Beer & Chocolate
This 2-hour evening stroll offers a magical experience of Bruges at night, with stops at illuminated landmarks, bars, and pubs. You’ll sample three Belgian beers and a seasonal chocolate treat. Led by a friendly guide, this tour creates a relaxing way to end a day.
Rated 3.4/5, it’s best for travelers wanting a romantic, scenic experience rather than in-depth tasting. The price of $45 makes it a budget-friendly option, especially for those wanting a nighttime view of Bruges. Some reviews note it’s a bit rushed, but overall it offers charm and flavor. Bottom line: a good pick for an evening in Bruges.
$45 per person
16. Bruges: Belgian Beer Tasting with Quiz & Chocolate Pairing
This one-hour session combines beer tasting, a fun quiz about Belgian beer history, and chocolate pairing. It’s a playful way to learn about beer and indulge at the same time. Hosted in a relaxed setting, it’s perfect for short visits or as an add-on.
Guests note the entertaining format and delicious pairings, making it a small, engaging experience. The modest cost and duration make it appealing for introductory taste of Bruges’ beer culture. The main downside is the limited time, which may not satisfy serious enthusiasts. Bottom line: a quick, fun way to learn and taste in Bruges.
How to Choose Your Perfect Drinking Tour in Bruges
When selecting the right tour, consider your budget, interests, and schedule. If you prefer an all-in-one experience with sightseeing and tasting, the Guided Tour & Boat Ride offers a good balance. For hands-on fun, the Waffle & Beer Workshop and Chocolate & Beer Workshop stand out.
Budget travelers will appreciate the Bourgogne des Flandres Brewery or the Beer Experience Entrance Ticket. For a more personalized journey, the private tours are unmatched but come at a premium. Think about whether you want a guided group or a tailored experience.
Book early, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred dates and times. Many activities fill up quickly, and Bruges’ small size makes popular tours very popular. Check availability and pick the experience that matches your curiosity and appetite for Belgian beer, chocolate, and waffles.
Bruges offers a delightful array of drinking tours that cater to lovers of history, craft, and culinary adventures. Whether you opt for a guided city tour with a boat ride, a workshop learning to make waffles, or a private tasting of local brews and chocolates, you’ll find something memorable. For most travelers, combining a scenic cruise with tastings provides a well-rounded experience, but don’t overlook the rich hands-on workshops if you enjoy cooking and crafting. Whatever you choose, booking in advance is wise—these popular tours fill up fast in this charming Belgian city.