Bruges: Bourgogne des Flandres Brewery and Distillery Visit

Discover Bruges’ Bourgogne des Flandres Brewery and Distillery Tour

Imagine wandering through the charming streets of Bruges, then stepping into a lively brewery with a centuries-old brewing tradition. For just $18 per person, you get a self-guided audio tour that takes you behind the scenes of Bourgogne des Flandres, one of Belgium’s beloved beer brands. Starting at the brewery’s ticket office, this experience lasts about an hour and offers an engaging way to learn about beer and genever while soaking up fantastic views over Bruges’ iconic skyline.

What makes this tour stand out is how flexible and accessible it is — you set your own pace with an audio guide in your preferred language, from Dutch to Chinese. Plus, the chance to meet the brewer at work and see live brewing in action adds an authentic touch most tourist attractions miss. We particularly appreciated the canalside terrace, perfect for sipping your included beer and appreciating the scenic beauty of Bruges.

A small word of caution: the tour involves navigating a few stairs (42 up and 41 down), though an elevator is available if needed. For anyone with mobility issues, this is worth considering. Also, food and drinks are not allowed during the tour, but the bar offers a nice selection of Bourgogne des Flandres and other beers, making it a suitable spot for a relaxing conclusion.

This experience suits beer enthusiasts, history buffs, and travelers seeking a laid-back, informative activity. If you like to see how local products are made and enjoy authentic beer tasting in a scenic setting, you’ll find plenty to love here.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Authentic brewing experience: See the brewer at work and understand the brewing and distilling process.
Flexible self-guided tour: Use a multi-language audio guide to explore at your own pace.
Beautiful views: Enjoy vistas of Bruges’ famous landmarks from the brewery’s canalside terrace.
Value for money: For just $18, you get a detailed tour and a complimentary beer.
Accessible options: Elevator available upon request for those with mobility concerns.
Educational and fun: The tour combines science, history, and beer tasting in an engaging way.

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An In-Depth Look at the Bourgogne des Flandres Brewery and Distillery Visit

Location and Setting

Situated in Flanders, the Bourgogne des Flandres Brewery offers a cozy yet scenic stop in Bruges. The brewery’s proximity to Bruges’ canals and historic architecture means that you’ll enjoy impressive views throughout your visit. The canalside terrace is especially worth noting; it’s a perfect spot to unwind with your included 25cl glass of Bourgogne des Flandres after the tour, soaking in the sights of the Belfry and Saint Anna’s Church.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Your journey begins at the ticket office, where you’ll receive a multi-language audio guide. The self-guided format is praised for its ease of use and flexibility — you can pause, replay, and explore at your own pace. The tour is designed to introduce visitors to the ingredients—mainly hops and malt—and the brewing process, with plenty of visual cues to understand what’s happening in the brew house.

Next, you’ll be taken to see live brewing in action, with beer fermenting in open vessels — a rare sight that emphasizes the craft involved. The guide shares insights into fermentation, distillation of genever, and the history of the brewery. As Fiona notes in her review, “the audio guide system was simple and very clever… the information was fun, accessible, and included some good science.” It’s clear that this tour is designed to be both educational and entertaining.

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The Brewer at Work and the Brewing Process

One of the highlights is observing the brewer in action, especially the aroma of the brewing process. This connection to authentic craftsmanship makes the experience much more meaningful than just reading about it. You’ll learn about ingredients like hops and malt, and how they contribute to the flavor profile of the beer.

The open fermenters give you a tangible sense of the brewing’s tradition and craftsmanship, and the guide explains how fermentation occurs, resulting in the unique taste of Bourgogne des Flandres. The distillery section offers a peek into genever production, providing a broader understanding of Belgian spirits.

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Tasting and The Final Toast

After exploring the brewery, it’s time for the best part: sampling some Belgian beer. The tour concludes in the lovely bar, where you can enjoy a free glass of Bourgogne des Flandres or another tap beer, or opt for a soft drink. The reviews consistently mention how much travelers appreciated the quality of the beer and the value — at just $18, you get an informative tour plus a refreshing drink.

Several visitors, like Rosalind, appreciated that the included beer was “the first beer I could comfortably drink,” which is a nice touch for those less familiar with Belgian brews. Others took advantage of the photo opportunity, printing a picture on a bottle for about $10 — a fun souvenir and an unexpected bonus.

Views and Atmosphere

What sets this experience apart is the scenic setting. The brewery’s location offers panoramic views of Bruges’ iconic belfry, churches, and canals. You’ll enjoy a moment of calm and beauty, especially while sipping your beer on the terrace. The reviews highlight how beautiful and relaxing this spot is, making it more than just a brewery visit — it’s a chance to savor Bruges’ atmosphere.

Accessibility and Practical Details

The tour involves navigating 42 steps up and 41 down, which may pose a challenge for some. However, an elevator is available if you request it. The experience is wheelchair accessible, ensuring that most visitors can enjoy it. No food or drinks are allowed during the tour, but the bar offers plenty of options afterward.

The validity for this experience is one day, so check availability for your preferred time. You can reserve with the option to pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund — flexible for travelers with unpredictable plans.

Authenticity and Value

This tour earns its reputation for authenticity. Watching the brewer at work and seeing real fermentation create a sense of connection to Bruges’ brewing traditions. The audio guide delivers well-informed, accessible explanations that suit both beer enthusiasts and casual visitors.

In terms of value, reviews highlight how reasonable the price is, especially considering the quality of information and experience offered. Many find the included drink and photo extras to be worthwhile upgrades.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for beer lovers, history fans, and those seeking a relaxed, educational activity in Bruges. If you’re curious about how beer is made or want a scenic spot for a drink, you’ll appreciate the combination of craftsmanship, views, and tasting. It also works well for families or couples looking for a light, engaging activity that offers insight into Belgian traditions without feeling like a stuffy museum visit.

It’s especially appealing to those who value authentic craftsmanship over touristy gimmicks and prefer flexible, self-paced exploration. The scenic setting and informative content make it a memorable part of your Bruges trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, an elevator is available upon request, but note that the tour involves some stairs. If stairs are a concern, ask when booking to ensure accessibility.

How long does the tour typically last?
The self-guided experience usually takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your pace.

Are there options for non-drinkers or children?
Yes, soft drinks are available as an alternative to beer, making it suitable for non-drinkers and younger visitors.

What languages are supported by the audio guide?
The audio tour is available in Dutch, English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, Chinese, and Japanese.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility to adapt your plans.

Is there any food included?
No, food isn’t part of this experience, but you’re welcome to enjoy snacks or a meal in the brewery bar after the tour.

Can I buy souvenirs?
Yes, there’s a gift shop where you can purchase bottles, printed photos, and other memorabilia.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Most definitely, especially if your family enjoys beer and scenic views. Just keep in mind the stairs and age restrictions for alcohol.

Final Thoughts

The Bruges: Bourgogne des Flandres Brewery and Distillery Visit delivers a blend of authentic brewing insight, scenic beauty, and relaxed tasting — all for a reasonable price. The self-guided audio approach allows you to tailor the experience to your interests and pace, making it ideal for curious travelers who enjoy learning about local traditions.

If you’re a beer enthusiast, a history lover, or simply want a charming activity with a fantastic view, this tour hits the right notes. The friendly atmosphere, high-quality beer, and scenic setting make it a memorable part of your Bruges adventure. Just be prepared for some stairs, and you’ll be well rewarded with a taste of genuine Belgian brewing craftsmanship.

Whether you’re stopping by for a quick visit or planning a leisurely afternoon, this brewery tour offers a genuine taste of Bruges’ beer culture in a lovely, scenic atmosphere that’s perfect for relaxing and soaking up the local charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: