Antwerp, with its centuries-old brewing tradition and lively pub scene, is a top destination for anyone who appreciates good beer and authentic local drinking experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or just looking to enjoy a casual drink in historic surroundings, Antwerp offers something special. We’re particularly fond of the interactive brewery tour at De Koninck, which combines self-guided exploration with tastings, making it fun and engaging. Plus, the pub crawl through the old town offers a chance to soak up Antwerp’s bar culture with a knowledgeable guide. If you want a more curated experience, the guided beer tasting with an expert is perfect for understanding the nuances of Belgian brews.
Any of these experiences will give you a taste of Antwerp’s rich brewing scene, but they each appeal to different interests. For a relaxed, DIY adventure, the City Brewery De Koninck Interactive Tour is a real hit, while serious beer aficionados will appreciate the depth of the Guided Beer Tasting Tour. Looking for a lively evening? The Antwerp Pub Crawl offers a spirited way to explore multiple historic pubs.
Quick Overview
Our list features a variety of drinking tours that suit different tastes and schedules. You’ll find interactive brewery experiences that blend digital exhibits and hands-on activities, private beer tastings led by experts, lively pub crawls with local guides, and comprehensive guided tours combining sightseeing and beer tasting. Each offers a unique window into Antwerp’s beer culture. Now, let’s explore each in detail.
1. Antwerp: City Brewery De Koninck Interactive Tour
At number 1, the Antwerp: City Brewery De Koninck Interactive Tour offers a fun, self-guided look at one of Antwerp’s most famous breweries, founded in 1833. This tour combines the charm of a historic brewery with modern digital and audiovisual exhibits for an engaging experience. You start with a beer to set the mood, then explore the brewery at your own pace, testing your beer tapping skills and walking high above the brewing process to see how the magic happens.
What makes this tour stand out is its interactive nature. You’ll pour your own beer, take quizzes, and learn about the brewery’s long-standing tradition in a relaxed setting. The highlight is the ability to enjoy multiple beers and browse the shop afterward. Guests love the informal, personalized approach—one reviewer called it “very creative and great fun.” The cost is quite reasonable at $20 per person, making it accessible for a wide range of travelers.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect for those who want a mix of history, hands-on activities, and beer tasting without a guided group. It’s great for families, couples, or anyone who enjoys a relaxed, independent experience.
2. Antwerp Private Beer Tour
For a more personalized look at Antwerp’s beers, the Antwerp Private Beer Tour is a top choice. Limited to small groups or private sessions, this three-hour tour introduces you to local beer varieties in authentic city bars. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll visit spots favored by locals, starting at a tasting of Abbey No 8, a local champagne-style beer, and ending with a visit to De Ware Jacob.
The tour’s strength lies in its tailored approach. Your guide will explain what makes each brew unique—covering flavor profiles, brewing traditions, and regional differences—so you’ll gain a clear understanding of Antwerp’s beer scene. Reviews praise guide Flip for his engaging and flexible style, with many noting how his deep knowledge and charisma made the experience memorable. The price of around $224 per person reflects the private, in-depth nature of this experience.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal for serious beer enthusiasts or travelers who want a customized experience with expert insights. It’s less suitable for budget travelers due to its price but offers excellent value for those seeking depth.
3. Antwerp Pub Crawl
If you’re looking for a lively, social evening, the Antwerp Pub Crawl is a perfect pick. Lasting about two hours, this guided walk takes you through historic pubs in the old town, including stops at places like De Engel on Grote Markt and the cozy, artistic Hoogstraat. The guide provides insights into Belgian beer styles, local brewing secrets, and the stories behind each pub.
What makes this tour stand out is its pace and atmosphere. You’ll sample different types of beer—hoppy, sour, fruity, and mildly sweet—while enjoying live music and local ambiance. Guests rave about guide Flip’s knowledge and engaging style, noting how he personalized the experience when the group was small. The $68.78 price includes multiple stops and tastings, making it a fun, affordable way to explore Antwerp’s nightlife.
Bottom line: This tour suits travelers wanting a mix of history, local culture, and social drinking in a relaxed setting. It’s flexible and intimate, perfect for those who enjoy storytelling and discovering hidden bars.
4. Antwerp: Pub Crawl in the Historical City
The Antwerp: Pub Crawl in the Historical City offers a structured but comfortable way to explore Antwerp’s beer culture over two hours. Led by passionate guides, the walk covers the main sights and includes visits to traditional brown cafés. The tour is accessible for wheelchairs and available in both English and Dutch, making it inclusive for diverse travelers.
While details on exact stops are limited, reviews highlight the guide’s entertaining and knowledgeable style, emphasizing the lively storytelling aspect. Price-wise, the tour is just $102 for the entire group, making it a good choice for those who prefer a guided experience but still want to explore many pubs in a short time.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers interested in a guided introduction to Antwerp’s pub scene with a focus on storytelling and local culture. It’s a good pick if you prefer a group setting with historical context.
5. Antwerp: Guided Beer Tasting Tour with Beer Expert
At number 5, the Guided Beer Tasting Tour with a Beer Expert offers a focused, insider look at three iconic Antwerp cafes. Led by a passionate guide, Hans, this two-hour experience includes tasting three different beers, learning about the brewing process, and the regional styles that make Belgian beer famous.
What sets this tour apart is its educational angle. Hans’s enthusiasm and expertise deepen your appreciation for Belgian beers, making it especially appealing to those who want to understand what makes each brew special. The reviews mention how Hans’s lively storytelling and selection of beers made it enjoyable even for someone who isn’t a big beer drinker. Costing $470 for a group of up to six, it’s a premium experience, but the quality and depth of knowledge justify the price.
Bottom line: This experience appeals most to curious drinkers who want a detailed, guided tasting and are willing to invest in a more immersive, educational tour.
6. Antwerp Beer Tour
The Antwerp Beer Tour is a four-hour guided excursion that combines sightseeing with tasting. For about $96 per person, you’ll visit main sights like the Cathedral, the port, and the Meathalls, while sampling five local beers paired with small snacks, including street food dishes. The tour also features a geneva gin tasting, adding a twist to your beverage journey.
This tour is excellent for travelers who want a well-rounded experience—combining cultural sights with multiple beer tastings, all led by a guide who’s knowledgeable about Antwerp’s history and brewing traditions. Guests say it’s a fun, relaxed way to spend an afternoon, with plenty of opportunities to chat and learn. It’s ideal for those who want a balance of sightseeing and tasting, with a bit of local flavor.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who appreciate a rundown of Antwerp’s main sights along with tastings of local beers and gin, especially if you want to sample several in one outing.
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider your budget, time, and what specifically interests you. If you prefer a self-guided, budget-friendly experience with beer tastings, the City Brewery De Koninck Interactive Tour offers great value. For a personalized, in-depth look at local beers, the Private Beer Tour is best suited. If you’re after a lively social night, the Pub Crawl provides a fun way to explore multiple pubs with a guide.
For those interested in a more educational experience, the Guided Beer Tasting is a solid choice, especially if you’re willing to pay a bit more. Lastly, travelers craving a comprehensive day combining sights and tastings might enjoy the Antwerp Beer Tour, which blends local culture with beer indulgence.
Booking early is recommended, especially for private and guided tours, which can fill up quickly during peak seasons. Consider your fitness level, too—some tours involve walking, but most are manageable for most travelers.
Antwerp’s drinking scene is diverse, lively, and deeply rooted in tradition. Whether you want to explore independently or join a guided experience, these tours offer a great way to deepen your appreciation of Belgian beer and local culture. With so many options, you’re sure to find a tour that suits your style and curiosity. Cheers to discovering the best of Antwerp’s brews!