Düsseldorf is a city that takes its beer seriously—so seriously that exploring its brewing scene should be on every beer enthusiast’s list. The city’s legendary Altbier and lively pub culture make it ideal for guided drinking tours. Whether you’re a seasoned beer connoisseur or just looking to enjoy a fun night out, Dusseldorf’s tours blend history, local flavor, and a good dose of humor. Our favorites include a cozy brewery experience, a lively beer walking tour, and even a private pub crawl that’s perfect for groups. Each offers a different taste of the city’s rich beer culture.
For those wanting to learn about Dusseldorf’s brewing traditions firsthand, the Brewery Tour with Alt Beer Tastings provides an engaging, small-group experience. If you prefer hopping from microbrewery to microbrewery, the Altbier-Safari Beer Walking Tour is perfect for sampling a variety of local brews. And for an insider’s night out, the Private pub crawl with insider-guide & shots offers a fun, personalized way to explore Dusseldorf’s vibrant nightlife. Below, you’ll find a detailed look at each tour to help you choose the best fit for your trip.
1. Düsseldorf: Brewery Tour with Alt Beer Tastings
At number 1 on our list, this guided brewery tour dives into Dusseldorf’s most iconic beer culture. For just $31 per person, you’ll spend about 2 hours exploring local breweries and tasting the city’s famous Altbier—a dark, top-fermented beer unique to the region. This tour is highly rated (4.6/5 from nearly 1,200 reviews), which speaks to its quality and popularity.
The tour kicks off at one of two convenient locations—Burgpl. 21 or Löwenhaus—and includes engaging stories about the city’s funny, weird, and sometimes bizarre legends. Guides like Cristina and Ly are praised for their knowledge and humor, making the experience both educational and entertaining. Visitors often mention how intimate small groups are, allowing for more personal interaction. The tastings are generous, and the tour’s relaxed pace encourages conversation and camaraderie among fellow beer lovers.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on Dusseldorf’s brewing traditions combined with storytelling, making it ideal for travelers who want a deeper understanding of the local Altbier scene. The 40-minute extension some guests enjoyed shows its flexibility. The top reviews highlight how much fun and how informative the experience is—an excellent choice for first-time visitors wanting a taste (literally) of Dusseldorf’s brewing spirit.
Bottom Line: If you’re looking for an authentic, small-group brewery experience that combines history, humor, and great beer, this tour is hard to beat.
2. Düsseldorf: Altbier-Safari Beer Walking Tour
Number 2 on our list is the Altbier-Safari Beer Walking Tour, which offers a lively 2-hour stroll through Dusseldorf’s brewing heart. For $39 per person, you’ll visit all five microbreweries in the city, tasting different styles of Altbier along the way. This tour is rated 4.4/5 with nearly 1,000 reviews, showing it’s a popular choice, especially among those who want to explore multiple breweries in one go.
This walking tour takes you to well-known spots like Im Füchschen-Ratinger StraÃe and Brauerei Uerige, with visits to Brauerei Kürzer and Brauerei Schumacher. The guide will walk you through the beer-making process and share fascinating stories about each brewery’s history and quirks. Guests repeatedly mention the guide Tim’s passion and knowledge, which enhances the experience. The tour not only tastes great beers but also provides insights into the different microbrewery atmospheres.
The value here is significant—trying five breweries for less than $40 with expert guidance makes it a smart option. Plus, guests often mention the social aspect, connecting with fellow travelers and feeling like part of a local tradition. If you want a comprehensive beer tasting adventure, this walking tour is a fantastic pick.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want to sample a wide variety of Altbier and learn about Dusseldorf’s brewing craft in a fun, social setting.
3. Düsseldorf: Sushi, Sake & Japanese Lifestyle Tour
At number 3, this tour offers a refreshing change from beer—an exploration of Dusseldorf’s Little Tokyo. For $36, you get a 2-hour guided walk through Japanese shops, bakeries, and cultural spots, including tastings of delicious sushi and insights into Japanese manga. Rated 4.5/5 from nearly 400 reviews, it’s well-loved by those interested in Japanese cuisine and culture beyond the drinking scene.
This experience is ideal for travelers who want a cultural break—sampling authentic sushi and exploring Japanese bookstores and bakeries. The guide will introduce you to traditional Japanese foods and traditions, making it a good choice if you’re seeking a varied experience that combines food, culture, and a touch of Dusseldorf’s international flavor.
While not a drinking tour per se, it offers a different kind of social experience—tasting and learning in a relaxed atmosphere. It’s an excellent choice for those who enjoy culinary culture or are traveling with friends who prefer a more laid-back, cultural outing.
Bottom Line: A unique chance to explore Dusseldorf’s Japanese side, perfect for cultural enthusiasts or those seeking a break from beer.
4. Düsseldorf: Guided Old Town Tour with Beer Break
Number 4 is a walking tour of Dusseldorf’s charming Old Town, rated 4.9/5 from 29 reviews, at only $26 per person. It lasts about 2 hours and offers a perfect blend of sightseeing, local stories, and a beer break. Starting from Königsallee, the tour guides you through historic streets and along the Rhine, sharing anecdotes about local pubs and restaurants.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on the Old Town’s ambiance and insider tips—these are the spots locals love. The included beer break lets you relax and soak in the atmosphere. Guests appreciate the small-group format, which makes it easy to chat and ask questions. The guide provides suggestions for dinner and nightlife options, turning a sightseeing walk into an evening plan.
This tour is especially suited for travelers who want a taste of Dusseldorf’s local life without a heavy focus on brewery visits. It’s a good balance of history, culture, and casual drinking—perfect for first-timers or those on a tight schedule.
Bottom Line: A friendly, relaxed way to explore Dusseldorf’s Old Town with insider tips and a refreshing beer break.
5. Brewery Tour Dusseldorf in English (inc. 3 beer)
Coming in at number 5, this small-group brewery tour offers a comprehensive look at Dusseldorf’s beer scene. For around $32.59, you visit three breweries in about 2 hours, with a beer tasting at each location. Guests rave about the knowledgeable guides like Alisa and the variety of beers sampled—some returning to breweries afterward for dinner and more drinks.
The tour chooses breweries to best suit the group’s preferences, ensuring a tailored experience. Reviews highlight how much participants learn about Altbier and the local brewing culture, with some mentioning the guide’s enthusiasm and storytelling skills. The moderate price and included beers make this a good value for beer enthusiasts who want a structured, yet flexible experience.
This tour is best suited for travelers who want a structured beer tasting experience with in-depth stories and a casual atmosphere. The intimate size encourages conversation and connections among participants.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a guided, educational dive into Dusseldorf’s breweries without sacrificing social fun.
6. Beer tour with tasting in Dusseldorf
Number 6 is a highly personalized beer journey rated 5.0/5 from only 9 reviews, making it exceptionally tailored. For $35.71, this 2.5 to 3-hour tour takes you to four different locations, tasting various styles of beer and hearing hilarious stories about Dusseldorf’s beer history. The tour includes visits to notable spots like the Schlossturm and Uerige, with the guide sharing insider stories about the Rhine and local legends.
This tour’s strength lies in its personalized approach and the opportunity to experience multiple beer styles in a relaxed environment. Guests love the storytelling, the lively atmosphere, and the chance to learn about Dusseldorf’s best-kept secrets. The tour’s duration offers enough time to enjoy drinks without feeling rushed.
It’s perfect for travelers who want a more intimate, story-rich experience and are interested in local lore along with their beer tastings. The only caveat is the limited reviews, but the high rating suggests it’s worth considering.
Bottom Line: Great for those who want a personalized, storytelling-heavy beer experience that balances drinking with entertainment.
7. Düsseldorf: Private pub crawl with insider-guide & shots
Finally, for groups seeking a customized night out, this private pub crawl is perfect. Costing $409 for up to 12 people, it lasts around 4 hours and explores 3-4 bars. The tour includes free shots, drinking games, and an insider guide who shares fun facts about Dusseldorf’s nightlife.
This experience is ideal for bachelor parties, group celebrations, or corporate outings. Guests praise the lively atmosphere created by the guide Lina and Emily, mentioning how well the night was organized and how much fun they had. The reserved entry and drink offers add to the value, easing the hassle of planning a night out.
While not suited for solo travelers or small groups, it’s the top option for anyone wanting a private, stress-free night with friends and guaranteed fun. It’s a more expensive option but offers a guaranteed memorable experience.
Bottom Line: Best for groups wanting an exclusive, lively night out with drinks, games, and insider tips.
How to Choose the Right Drinking Tour in Dusseldorf
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, interests, and group size. If you want an immersive, authentic brewery experience, the Brewery Tour with Alt Beer Tastings is a top choice. For those eager to sample multiple breweries and learn about microbrewery culture, the Altbier-Safari provides great variety. If you’re looking for a cultural break, the Sushi and Japanese Lifestyle Tour offers a unique contrast.
For travelers who prefer a relaxed city walk with a beer break, the Old Town Tour is ideal. Groups wanting a guided, educational experience should look into the English Brewery Tour, while those seeking personalized nightlife fun will love the private pub crawl.
Remember to check availability in advance, especially for popular tours, and consider the length, price, and focus to match your trip style. Booking early is wise during peak seasons or holidays.
Final Thoughts
Dusseldorf offers a diverse range of drinking experiences, from traditional Altbier brewery visits to lively pub crawls and cultural explorations. For beer lovers, the Brewery Tour with Alt Beer Tastings and the Altbier-Safari stand out for their authenticity and variety. Meanwhile, those interested in a more personalized or private experience have excellent options in the private pub crawl.
Whether you want to learn about Dusseldorf’s brewing traditions, enjoy a fun group night, or explore local culture in other ways, there’s a tour to suit your style. Be sure to book early, especially during busy times, and prepare to enjoy some of the best beer experiences Dusseldorf has to offer.