Amsterdam Craft Beer Tour – Discover the Tastiest Dutch Brews!

If you’re curious about Dutch craft beer and want to experience Amsterdam like a local, this 3 hours 30 minutes tour offers a lively, flavorful journey through some of the city’s best microbreweries and historic pubs. Starting at the Nieuwe Kerk and winding through iconic sites like Dam Square and the Red Light District, you’ll visit De Drie Fleschjes, Amsterdam’s oldest bar, and Brouwerij de Prael, a brewery with a storied past. Priced at around $103, this tour is a great value for those eager to combine sightseeing with beer tasting, guided by knowledgeable locals who love sharing their city’s secrets.

Two things we really appreciate are the small group size (max 10) which keeps it personal and lively, and the local stories that add a warm, authentic touch to each stop. Plus, the inclusion of Dutch snacks paired with the beers offers a true taste of gezelligheid (Dutch coziness). A potential consideration might be the price, which is on the higher side for a casual beer tasting, but the curated experience and insider access make it worthwhile. This tour suits beer lovers, history buffs, and first-time visitors who want a mix of culture, great drinks, and local ambiance.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Visits to historic bars and microbreweries in central Amsterdam.
• Local Insights: Knowledgeable guides share stories and tips that you won’t find in guidebooks.
• Tasty Pairings: Dutch snacks complement the craft beers, enhancing the tasting experience.
• Compact Groups: Small tour size ensures personalized attention and a convivial atmosphere.
• Convenient Itinerary: Combines sightseeing, culture, and beer tasting in a relaxed 3.5-hour format.
• Flexible Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

A Guide to the Amsterdam Craft Beer Tour

When we think about Amsterdam, images of canals, historic buildings, and vibrant neighborhoods come to mind. But for those who enjoy a good beer, this tour adds a flavorful dimension to your visit. It’s a well-balanced walk through the city’s core, with stops at key sites and cozy bars, where every pint has a story.

Starting at Nieuwe Kerk and Dam Square

Your adventure begins at the Nieuwe Kerk, a stunning Gothic church that dates back to the 15th century. It’s a perfect spot to gather and get introduced to the tour’s vibe — historic yet lively. We loved how the guide set the tone here, blending local history with a warm, welcoming attitude.

Just a short walk takes you to Dam Square, the heart of Amsterdam. Standing amidst street performers, cafes, and historic buildings, you immediately feel the pulse of the city. This central location makes it easy to meet up and start exploring.

Visiting De Drie Fleschjes: The Oldest Bar in Town

Next, you’ll step into De Drie Fleschjes, which officially earned its status as Amsterdam’s oldest bar last year. The charm here is palpable — a cozy, traditional brown bar with wooden beams and a storied past. The guide will introduce you to the local ‘kopstoot’ tradition — a classic way to enjoy Dutch gin with a beer chaser.

Reviewers rave about this stop for its authentic atmosphere and the stories shared by guides like Luis, who clearly enjoy their work. One said, “We learned so much about Dutch beer, its history and got to visit the most interesting local bars.” It’s a nice break from the more touristy spots, with a history that adds depth to your tasting.

Proeflokaal Arendsnest: The Dutch Beer Haven

The next highlight is Proeflokaal Arendsnest, home to the most Dutch beers on draft in Amsterdam. Here, you’ll taste several brews, each with unique flavors. The bar’s focus on Dutch craft beer means you’ll get a real sense of local brewing styles — from crisp IPAs to rich stouts.

You might also enjoy a snack here, which pairs beautifully with your drinks. The guide will tell stories about the beers and their makers, making each sip more meaningful. Several reviews mention how the guide’s knowledgeable commentary makes the experience richer and more enjoyable.

Passing Through the Red Light District to Brouwerij de Prael

From Arendsnest, a short walk takes you past the famous Red Light District — a must-see for first-timers. It’s fascinating to see this neighborhood’s lively, open atmosphere as you stroll to Brouwerij de Prael.

This brewery, located right in the heart of the Red Light District, is a highlight for many. It’s not just about the beer; it’s about the story of the place. The guide shares insights into its history, making it more than just a tasting stop. The brewery’s atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with a sense of community.

Finishing at Het Elfde Gebod

Your tour ends at Het Elfde Gebod, a renowned brown bar with an inviting vibe. Many reviewers mention how this cozy spot is perfect for winding down, with friendly staff and a good selection of local beers. It’s a fitting place to reflect on what you’ve experienced over the last few hours.

Practical Details That Matter

The tour begins at 3:00 pm at Gravenstraat 21 and ends near Zeedijk, making it easy to continue exploring or grab dinner afterward. Small groups of no more than 10 people ensure you get personal attention and the chance to ask questions.

The price of just over $100 covers several tastings, snacks, and insider stories. While it’s slightly more expensive than a casual pub crawl, the curated experience and the opportunity to visit historic and local spots make it a solid value. Plus, the free cancellation policy offers flexibility if your plans change.

The tour is suitable for 18+ travelers, and service animals are allowed, making it accessible for most.

Authentic Reviews from Fellow Travelers

One reviewer described it as “Very highly recommend this experience,” emphasizing how guides like Luis make the tour engaging with their knowledge and enthusiasm. Another praised the variety of the stops, highlighting how some of the places they visited wouldn’t have been found on their own.

Many mention the delicious Dutch snacks and the quality of beers, which enhance the tasting experience and add a cozy, local touch. The small group size keeps the atmosphere relaxed, making it easy to chat and learn.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for beer enthusiasts eager to explore Dutch brews beyond the standard options. It’s also perfect for history lovers, who appreciate the stories behind the places and drinks. If you enjoy small, intimate group experiences with a mix of culture, food, and drink, you’ll find this tour rewarding.

Travelers interested in the local scene and authentic spots will appreciate the stops at historic bars and the microbrewery. It’s especially suitable if you want a guided, relaxed way to get acquainted with Amsterdam’s craft beer culture.

The Sum Up

The Amsterdam Craft Beer Tour offers a relaxed, engaging way to discover the city’s brewing scene while soaking in its historic streets. The combination of small group size, local stories, and delicious tastings creates a memorable experience that goes beyond just drinking beer. It’s perfect for those who want to combine cultural sightseeing with a taste of local flavor.

While the price might seem high, the curated stops, insider access, and quality of the beers and snacks make it a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to deepen their appreciation of Amsterdam’s vibrant craft scene. Whether you’re a die-hard beer lover or simply curious about Dutch culture, this tour gives you a genuine, flavorful taste of what makes this city special.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, giving you ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Gravenstraat 21 and concludes near Zeedijk, close to the final bar, Het Elfde Gebod.

Is the tour suitable for non-Dutch speakers?
While not explicitly stated, most guided tours in Amsterdam cater to English speakers, and guides are typically fluent.

What is included in the price?
You’ll get several beer tastings, Dutch snacks, and a guided experience with insights into the local beer culture.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there is free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, offering flexibility.

Is the tour family-friendly?
No, it’s for 18+ only, due to alcohol consumption.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, as the tour involves walking outdoors.

Will I visit any famous landmarks?
Yes, the tour passes sites like Dam Square and the Red Light District, but the focus is on beer and local stories.

Is this tour good for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Small groups foster a friendly environment for meeting fellow travelers.

This review aims to give you a clear picture of what to expect and how to make the most of your time exploring Amsterdam’s craft beer scene. Cheers to discovering new flavors and authentic local spots — prost!