Curacao Willemstad Distilleries and Brewery Tour

Experience the heart of Curacao’s spirits and flavors with the Willemstad Distilleries and Brewery Tour. For $109 per person, you get about four and a half hours of discovering the island’s iconic Blue Curaçao, sampling local rums, tasting craft beers, and exploring a lively local market. What sets this tour apart is the intimate group size (max 8 travelers), guided by knowledgeable locals like Tino, whose enthusiasm and expertise make each stop memorable. We loved the chance to see the original Chobolobo Mansion, where the bright blue liqueur was born, and the lively atmosphere at Netto Bar, famed for the island’s Green Rum.

Two standout features make this tour a real gem: first, the well-curated visits to key distilleries and breweries, which offer more than just tastings—they reveal the stories behind each spirit. Second, the local market visit, which introduces you to the island’s street food scene—an authentic flavor of Curaçao that you can explore at your own expense.

A possible consideration is that the tour involves a fair amount of walking and standing, so travelers with limited mobility should be prepared. Also, food isn’t included, so if you’re hungry after all those tastings, you’ll want to budget for some bites at the market. This experience is perfect for curious travelers who enjoy discovering local flavors, learning the craft behind spirits, and appreciate small-group, personalized tours.

Key Points

• Authentic Curacao spirits: See where Blue Curaçao and local rums are made, with guided tastings.
• Small-group intimacy: Up to 8 travelers ensures personalized attention and a relaxed pace.
• Local culture and flavor: Explore a vibrant street food market at your own expense.
• Diverse stops: From distilleries to breweries to the legendary Netto Bar, each spot offers a unique taste of the island.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides like Tino bring stories and history to life.
• Value for price: Tasting flights, entrance fees, and a well-rounded experience make this tour a good deal.

A Deep Dive into the Curacao Willemstad Distilleries and Brewery Tour

Starting Point and Duration
We begin at the centrally located Starbucks near the Renaissance Curacao Hotel at 9:00 am. The tour lasts about 4 hours and 30 minutes, making it a manageable half-day adventure. The small group, capped at 8, keeps the experience intimate and engaging—perfect for those who prefer personalized attention and a relaxed vibe.

First Stop: Netto Bar
The tour kicks off at the legendary Netto Bar, renowned as the birthplace of Curaçao’s famous Green Rum. Here, you get a complimentary tasting that sets the tone for the day. The atmosphere is lively—locals gather here, and it’s a genuine slice of island life. We loved that this spot offers a chance to soak in the local scene before heading into the more structured distillery visits. As one reviewer put it, “the Netto Bar was so much fun—I loved the local flavor!”

Second Stop: Queen Emma Pontoon Bridge and Craft Beer
Next, you’ll hop over to the Queen Emma Pontoon Bridge, a symbol of Willemstad, and then to a local craft brewery. This stop is a delightful surprise for beer enthusiasts. Sampling a flight of inventive, flavorful brews from Curaçao’s budding craft scene, you’ll hear stories behind each pour. The 20-minute stop allows enough time to appreciate the diversity of local beer styles—something you might not expect from a Caribbean island. Reviewers mention the “great stories” shared by guides, which add context and flavor to each sip.

Third Stop: Curaçao Liqueur Distillery
The heart of the tour is the Chobolobo Mansion, home of Blue Curaçao. This historic site is where the iconic blue liqueur is crafted. During the 40-minute visit, you’ll learn about the distillation process, the history of the liqueur, and the secret ingredients that give it its vibrant color. We loved the behind-the-scenes look at how this famous spirit is made, and the chance to sample it in various forms—whether neat or as part of a cocktail you can purchase afterward.

Fourth Stop: Annabay Club Rum
Next, a guided tasting at the Anna Bay Rum Distillery reveals Curaçao’s rum-making traditions. Smelling oak barrels, tasting spices, and hearing about the island’s rum history adds depth to your appreciation of this Caribbean staple. The 40-minute visit is a deep dive into local craftsmanship, appreciated by those who love spirits with a story.

Fifth Stop: The Local Food Market
Following the spirits, you’ll explore the bustling Old Market, a feast for the senses. Colorful stalls filled with sizzling street food and fresh local bites await. While food isn’t included, the market offers plenty of tempting options at your own expense. This stop gives you a chance to experience Curaçao’s culinary culture firsthand—whether you want spicy snacks, fresh seafood, or sweet treats.

Final Stop: End at Netto Bar
The tour wraps up back at Netto Bar, where you’ll get a final complimentary tasting of their Green Rum. It’s the perfect way to toast a memorable day and reflect on the island’s drinking traditions. From reviews, we know many travelers found this a fun and authentic way to conclude their experience.

Why This Tour Delivers Value

Compared to other experiences, this tour combines education, tasting, and culture in a way that feels genuine and fun. The entrance fees to each distillery and brewery are included, and bottled water is provided. While you’ll need to pay for your own meals, the core of the experience—the guided visits and tastings—is well worth the price. The small size and personal approach of guides like Tino truly enhance the experience, allowing for questions and stories that make the spirits come alive.

The tour’s pacing is well thought out, giving enough time at each site without feeling rushed. The diversity of stops—from Blue Curaçao to craft beers—ensures variety and keeps interest high. If you’re a spirit lover, a curious traveler, or simply want a fun, authentic look at Curaçao’s beverage scene, this tour ticks all those boxes.

Authentic experiences are what make this tour stand out. It’s not just about tasting; it’s about understanding the island’s craftsmanship, its history, and its lively culture. Plus, the guide’s knowledge makes each stop informative and engaging.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for adventurous spirits enthusiasts eager to learn about local drinks and enjoy tasting flights in a relaxed setting. It’s also perfect for small groups wanting a more personal, less commercial experience. If you appreciate local stories, unique flavors, and a glimpse into Curaçao’s heritage, this tour will suit you well.

Travelers who enjoy small-group tours and authentic cultural encounters will find this experience particularly rewarding. It’s also a great option for those who want a manageable half-day activity that combines history, local flavor, and lively ambiance.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
Approximately four hours and thirty minutes, starting at 9:00 am from the Starbucks near the Renaissance Curacao Hotel.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes guided visits to the distilleries and brewery, entrance fees, bottled water, and complimentary tastings at Netto Bar. Food is not included.

Is the tour suitable for all physical fitness levels?
The tour requires a moderate level of physical activity, mainly walking and standing during the visits, so travelers with mobility issues should consider this.

Can I buy spirits or cocktails during the tour?
Yes, you can purchase cocktails after visiting the Blue Curaçao distillery and at the Netto Bar.

Where does the tour end?
The tour concludes back at the starting point, the Starbucks by the Renaissance Curacao Hotel.

How far in advance should I book?
The tour is typically booked about 41 days in advance, so early reservations are recommended to secure your spot.

To sum it up, the Willemstad Distilleries and Brewery Tour offers a balanced, authentic peek into Curaçao’s spirited side. It’s a perfect choice for those who love local drinks, lively markets, and stories behind the flavors. With knowledgeable guides, a small group setting, and a variety of tasting opportunities, this tour delivers excellent value for the price.

Whether you’re a spirits connoisseur, a curious traveler, or someone who simply wants to enjoy a relaxed, flavorful day exploring Curaçao’s cultural heart, this experience is likely to leave you with a new appreciation for the island’s craftsmanship—and perhaps a new favorite drink or two.