Rotterdam is a city that loves its craft beers, lively pubs, and scenic waterways, making it an ideal destination for those interested in exploring its boozy side. Unlike many other cities, Rotterdam combines modern brewing innovation with historic waterfronts and a vibrant nightlife. Whether you’re a beer connoisseur or just looking to enjoy a fun evening, you’ll find plenty of options. For instance, the Rotterdam: Stadshaven Brewery Tour with Beer Tastings offers an engaging peek into the brewing process along with tastings in a historic building. We particularly like how it blends culture, sustainability, and flavor—all in about an hour and a half.
Another favorite is the Boat & Beer Walking Tour, which combines exploring Rotterdam’s waterfront, visiting several breweries, and enjoying craft beers and snacks in a relaxed setting. It’s perfect for those who want both sightseeing and tasting in one smooth experience. These tours highlight Rotterdam’s unique charm—its modern breweries, bustling pub scene, and scenic waterways—making it a city well worth exploring through its drinks.
Quick Overview
Our list includes a mix of beer-focused brewery tours, water taxi and boat cruises, and pub crawls—each offering a different way to experience Rotterdam’s lively drinking scene. Whether you prefer tasting local beers at a brewery, cruising on the Maas river, or hopping between the city’s coolest bars, there’s an option here for you. Dive into the details below to find your perfect match.
1. Rotterdam: Stadshaven Brewery Tour with Beer Tastings
At number 1, this Stadshaven Brewery Tour stands out for its focus on modern beer brewing and sustainability. Over roughly 1 to 1.5 hours, you’ll tour an impressive former fruit storehouse, now home to one of Rotterdam’s most innovative breweries. The guide explains the brewing process and how the brewery is pushing for eco-friendly practices, which adds a meaningful layer to the experience.
What makes this tour special is the chance to taste a selection of delicious local beers. Reviewers love the balance of education and enjoyment, with many noting the beers are both high-quality and accessible. The guide, Dennis, is praised for clear explanations and friendliness, making it feel like a visit with a knowledgeable friend. The brewery’s location in a historic building adds to the charm, and vegan snacks are available for those interested.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for those curious about sustainable brewing innovations and wanting a relaxed, informative experience with a generous tasting. It’s great value at $13 per person, especially if you enjoy learning how beer is crafted.
2. Rotterdam: Beer Brewery ‘Noordt’ Beer Tasting
For a quick, no-fuss introduction to Rotterdam’s brewing scene, the Noordt Beer Tasting offers a 30-minute session with a focus on smooth, straightforward beers. This brewery prides itself on no-nonsense, quality brews, and the tasting includes three flights you can enjoy on their terrace or inside the tasting room.
During this experience, you’ll choose between Belgian classics or a selection of IPAs, giving you a chance to sample different styles in a casual setting. With a 4.7-star rating from 22 reviews, visitors find this tour a solid value, especially at just $9. It’s ideal if you’re pressed for time but still want a taste of Rotterdam’s craft scene.
Bottom Line: Perfect for beer newbies or those on a budget, this tasting offers a quick peek at local brewing without sacrificing flavor or atmosphere.
3. Rotterdam: Breweries and Water Taxi Tour
At number 3, the Breweries and Water Taxi Tour combines beer tasting with scenic water taxi rides—a true Rotterdam experience. Over four hours, you’ll visit the city’s oldest, newest, and biggest breweries, sampling local beers and enjoying snacks along the way.
The real highlight is the spectacular views of Rotterdam’s skyline and harbor from the water. The boat rides offer a unique perspective of the city, from the historic docks to modern architecture. Your guide shares stories about the breweries and the city’s maritime history, adding depth to each sip. Guests love the mix of city exploration and cultural insights.
This tour is priced at $108, which might seem steep, but the combination of tastings, scenic cruises, and expert narration provides excellent value for a full afternoon adventure. It’s best suited for beer lovers who enjoy sightseeing and storytelling.
Bottom Line: An immersive way to experience Rotterdam’s beer culture and waterways in one package, perfect for those who want a comprehensive and scenic outing.
4. Boat & Beer Walking Tour
Holding a perfect 5-star rating, the Boat & Beer Walking Tour offers an elegant blend of city exploration, water rides, and beer tastings across four hours. Starting at Rotterdam Centraal Station, this tour takes you to four breweries, each offering their unique style and snacks.
What sets this tour apart is the use of water taxis to move efficiently between locations, providing a relaxed pace and fantastic views of the Maas River. Your guide shares insights into Rotterdam’s brewing scene and city history, making this more than just a drink-fest—it’s an education wrapped in fun. Guests rave about the friendly guides and the well-chosen breweries.
For $109.90, this experience offers good value considering the included tastings, transportation, and insider knowledge. It’s suited for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with craft beer and don’t mind a bit of walking.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice if you want to see Rotterdam from the water and enjoy local craft beers at a relaxed, guided pace.
5. Rotterdam: Pub Cruise with Drinks and Bites
The Pub Cruise offers a 2-hour journey along Rotterdam’s river with unlimited beer, wine, and soda, plus Dutch fried snacks. For $60 per person, it’s an affordable way to enjoy Rotterdam’s skyline, harbor, and river life all at once.
You’ll cruise on the classic ship Uncle Aad, built in 1898, which adds a historic touch. The open bar means you can relax and sip as you soak in the city’s sights, making it ideal for those who want a laid-back, social experience. Tour reviewers appreciate the casual, friendly atmosphere and the opportunity to meet fellow travelers.
This cruise is perfect if you’re after a fun, informal evening with drinks and scenic views, especially if you want a bit of history along with your beverages.
Bottom Line: A smart pick for cheap, cheerful river views and unlimited drinks in a historic boat setting.
$60 per person
6. The Ultimate Rotterdam Bar Crawl Experience
For those who love nightlife and socializing, the Ultimate Rotterdam Bar Crawl is a 3-hour tour through the hottest bars with a local guide. Starting with a welcome shot, you’ll visit 3-4 bars, including some hidden gems.
At $41, it’s a lively, affordable way to experience Rotterdam’s night scene. The guide helps you meet fellow travelers and shows you places you might miss on your own. Many reviews mention the fun atmosphere and the chance to try different drinks—ranging from craft beers to cocktails.
This tour is best suited for night owls and those who want a social, energetic experience in a compact timeframe. It’s a good way to start or end a night out in Rotterdam.
Bottom Line: Ideal for party seekers wanting a guided, social night with plenty of drinks and local tips.
7. Rotterdam: Brewery Noordt Tour Including Two Beers
This Brewery Noordt Tour is a short, 30-minute visit focusing on learning about the brewing process in a cozy, no-nonsense brewery. For just $20, you get to taste two beers of your choice and see how local brews are made.
The brewery emphasizes smooth, approachable beers and offers a relaxed atmosphere. It’s a good stop if you’re curious about craft beer production but don’t want a lengthy tour. The reviews highlight the informative guide and the quality of the beers.
This experience appeals most to beer enthusiasts interested in the brewing process or those with limited time. It’s less about drinking large quantities and more about gaining insight.
Bottom Line: A quick, educational stop for beer lovers who want to understand the craft behind Rotterdam’s local brews.
$20 per person
8. Rotterdam: Ludwig’s Original Pub Crawl with VIP Club Entry
Ludwig’s pub crawl (includes VIP club entry) is a 4-hour journey through Rotterdam’s top bars, with free shots at each stop and all entry fees included. For around $40, this tour offers a comprehensive nightlife experience with a local guide.
Participants love the insider access to the city’s best bars, from historic pubs to modern cocktail lounges. The guide shares fun facts and helps you meet new people, making it a social highlight. The inclusion of VIP club tickets at the end adds a touch of exclusivity.
Ideal for nightlife enthusiasts and those wanting a full night out with a knowledgeable guide and guaranteed fun.
Bottom Line: A dependable choice for nightlife exploration with insider tips and a bit of VIP treatment.
9. Rotterdam: Ludwig’s Private Pub Crawl with VIP Club Entry
Similar to the previous, this Private Pub Crawl offers a more personalized experience. Over four hours, you and your group visit five top bars, with free shots and all entry fees included.
Guests praise the customized approach and the friendly, local guide who tailors the experience to your preferences. The VIP club ticket ensures a seamless transition into Rotterdam’s lively after-hours scene. It’s well suited for small groups or couples looking for an intimate night out.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers seeking a personalized, exclusive nightlife tour with insider access.
10. Rotterdam: Pub Crawl with Local Guide
Finally, the Pub Crawl is designed for those wanting a short, social introduction to Rotterdam’s pub scene. In about two hours, your local guide will take you to three cozy pubs, where you’ll play a pub game and learn about the city’s culture and history.
Rated 4.3 out of 5, the tour is a fun way to mix sightseeing and socializing. The focus on local pubs and engaging activities makes it appealing for casual travelers or those short on time.
Bottom Line: Great for a quick, social experience that combines city insights and fun games.
How to Choose Your Drinking Tour in Rotterdam
When selecting a drinking tour, think about your budget, time, and what kind of experience you want. For a deep dive into brewing, the Stadshaven Brewery Tour offers a relaxed, educational experience. If scenic views are your thing, the Breweries and Water Taxi Tour combines sightseeing with tasting.
For a night out, the Ultimate Rotterdam Bar Crawl and Ludwig’s Pub Crawl provide guided socializing, while the Pub Cruise is perfect if you want to relax on the water with unlimited drinks.
Consider your interest in history, scenery, or social scene—all options are flexible. Book early during peak seasons, especially for popular tours like the pub crawls or the boat and brewery combination.
Final thoughts
Rotterdam offers a diverse range of drinking experiences—from brewery visits and scenic water tours to lively pub crawls. The best choice depends on what kind of adventure you’re after: if you’re interested in learning about craft brewing, the Stadshaven Brewery Tour is a top option. For those wanting a fun night out, the Ultimate Rotterdam Bar Crawl will give you a lively taste of the city’s nightlife.
No matter which tour you pick, booking early ensures you’ll secure your spot in Rotterdam’s vibrant drinking scene. Cheers to discovering this dynamic Dutch city—one sip at a time!