Antwerp Pub Crawl

Are you looking for a fun, authentic way to experience Antwerp’s lively drinking scene? The Antwerp Pub Crawl offers an engaging two-hour journey through some of the city’s most historic and lively pubs, guided by local experts who know their beers and their city inside out. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or simply eager to soak up Antwerp’s vibrant atmosphere, this tour promises a blend of history, culture, and tastings that can’t be matched by simply wandering alone.

One of the standout features of this experience is the knowledgeable guides, like Flip, who bring a wealth of local insight and charisma to every stop. They don’t just point out bars—they tell stories, share tips, and even customize the experience based on your interests. However, a possible consideration is that the tour is relatively short, so if you’re after a deep dive into Belgian brewing, you might want to add extra tastings or extend your visit.

This tour appeals most to travelers who enjoy socializing, discovering local drinks, and exploring city centers with a personal touch. Whether you’re solo, a couple, or small group, this private experience feels tailored and intimate. Just keep in mind that it’s not suited for bachelor parties, and all participants should be prepared to treat their guide to a drink at each stop.

Key Points

• Authentic Local Experience: Visit historic pubs and get insider stories about Antwerp’s drinking culture.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like Flip are praised for their charisma and deep beer knowledge.
• Flexible & Personalized: The tour can be customized, especially if you’re the only two participants.
• Diverse Drinking Options: From Belgian classics to local drinks, there’s a variety of styles to taste.
• Convenient & Compact: Just 2 hours long, fitting easily into a day of sightseeing.
• Group Friendly & Private: Only your group participates, making it more intimate and flexible.

An In-Depth Look at the Antwerp Pub Crawl

Why Choose This Tour?

This pub crawl stands out by blending a guided tasting experience with a walk through Antwerp’s historic old town. For just under $70 per person, you get roughly two hours of exploring, tasting, and learning—all with a guide who is both knowledgeable and engaging. The tour’s small-group or private setup ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the walking format makes it easy to see the city while sampling its drinks.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point: Grote Markt
Your journey begins at the iconic Grote Markt, home to De Engel pub. This spot is a must-visit in Antwerp, and locals swear every native has a memory of having a drink here. It’s a quick 15-minute stop where you can soak in the lively square’s atmosphere. The guide often shares anecdotes about the city’s history, setting the tone for the adventure ahead.

Hoogstraat & Artistic Vibes
Next, you head to Hoogstraat 59, a cozy pub with a surprisingly rich artistic past. Reviewers mention how this tiny spot hosts live music on Sundays, creating an intimate vibe that’s hard to find elsewhere. Here, you might try a local beer while enjoying the friendly, artsy environment.

Kaasrui & Live Performances
The third stop is Café Cabron at Kaasrui 1, known for its live performances and DJ sets over the weekend. The atmosphere is lively, with some visitors noting parties and DJ nights that add to the experience. It’s a good spot to enjoy a different style of drink and maybe mingle with locals or other travelers.

Oude Koornmarkt & Relaxation
Afterward, the group visits Oude Koornmarkt 38, a place considered ideal for relaxing after a busy day. The selection of drinks is praised, and at night, you can find it bustling with party-goers. This stop offers a chance to unwind in a friendly environment with great refreshment options.

Bordeauxstraat & Live Music
Moving to Bordeauxstraat 7A, Djinngel Djangel is renowned for hosting live performances, especially as it’s close to Antwerp’s docklands and Mas Museum. It’s a lively, culturally rich environment where you might sample local brews or cocktails, enjoying the music in a spirited setting.

The Highlander & Whisky & Beer
This stop earns particular praise from reviewers for its Anglo-Saxon pub atmosphere. Located at Stadswaag 21, the Highlander offers a chance to explore Belgian beers as well as whisky. The guide often shares insights about the different drinks, making this stop both educational and fun. Expect a longer session here—about 30 minutes—so you’ll have time to truly savor your drinks and chat.

Bier Central & Final Stop
Finally, the tour wraps up at De Keyserlei’s Bier Central near Central Station. It’s an ideal spot to finish your tasting adventure, giving you a chance to compare different Belgian brews and reflect on your experience. Many reviews highlight how this final stop is perfect for those wanting a comprehensive taste of Belgian beer culture.

What to Expect During the Tour

Taste Variety:
From hoppy IPAs to fruity sour ales and mildly sweet brews, the tour showcases Belgium’s diverse beer styles. Each pub offers a different selection, and your guide or pub owner will recommend options aligned with your taste.

Educational Insights:
Beyond just drinking, you’ll learn about Belgian brewing traditions, the secrets behind high-quality beer, and local drinking customs. Reviewers like Kathleen mention how Flip, the guide, is so knowledgeable and charismatic, making the experience informative without feeling like a lecture.

Authentic Atmospheres:
Each pub has its own vibe, from artsy and intimate to lively and bustling—reflecting Antwerp’s diversity. The tour provides a genuine feel of the local scene, not just tourist traps.

Flexible and Personalized:
If you’re lucky, you may find yourself the only participants, allowing the guide to tailor the experience even more. As Suzanne notes, this can lead to a more customized and relaxed experience, with the guide adjusting stops based on your interests.

Unbeatable Local Knowledge:
Multiple reviews mention how Flip and other guides are extremely engaging, often sharing stories about Antwerp’s history and culture that add context to each drink.

Pricing & Value

At $68.78 per person, this tour offers solid value considering it includes all fees and taxes. The price grants access to multiple pubs, tasting different drinks, and receiving personal insights—all in just two hours. Plus, the tour’s private setup means you’ll avoid large crowds and get attention tailored to your interests.

While the tour doesn’t include additional drinks beyond what the guide and pub owner offer, reviewers agree that the quality and authenticity of the experience far outweigh the cost. You get a curated, social introduction to Antwerp’s drinking scene, which you’ll likely remember much longer than just the drinks.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for beer lovers, history buffs, and social travelers wanting a relaxed, yet engaging, way to spend an afternoon. The intimate setting, knowledgeable guides, and diverse pub stops make it ideal for couples, small groups, or solo travelers seeking a customized experience.

However, it’s not suited for bachelor parties or large groups, as it’s designed to be a more personal, flexible tour. If you’re after a wild party or a long night out, you might find this two-hour crawl a bit tame—though you can always extend your evening afterward.

Final Thoughts

The Antwerp Pub Crawl offers a genuine taste of local life, combining history, culture, and Belgian beer in a warm, approachable package. The guides—especially Flip—bring a mix of humor, knowledge, and adaptability that makes the experience unforgettable. The stops are well-chosen, offering a mix of historic, artistic, and lively venues, each delivering something unique.

For travelers who want to explore Antwerp’s drinking culture without the hassle of figuring out where to go, this tour is a smart choice. It’s a combination of education, entertainment, and authentic local flavor—all wrapped into one memorable mini-adventure.

If you’re after a fun, relaxed way to learn about Belgian beers, meet fellow travelers, and enjoy Antwerp’s lively pub scene, this is one experience you shouldn’t miss.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers? Yes, the tour is private and can be tailored to solo travelers, providing a personalized experience and opportunities to meet other guests if desired.

How long does the pub crawl last? It lasts approximately 2 hours, making it easy to fit into a day of sightseeing or an afternoon activity.

What is included in the price? All fees and taxes are included. You’ll also enjoy visits to multiple pubs, with tastings and recommendations from your guide.

Can I choose where the tour starts and ends? The tour begins at Grote Markt and can be customized to end at your preferred location in Antwerp, based on your schedule.

Are drinks included in the tour? Not explicitly; at each pub visit, it’s customary that the customer treats the guide to a drink. The tour provides guidance and tastings, but the cost of additional drinks is usually on you.

Is this experience suitable for large groups or bachelor parties? No, this tour is designed for small groups or private sessions and isn’t recommended for bachelor parties.

Do I need to book in advance? Yes, the tour is typically booked about 38 days in advance, and securing your spot early ensures availability.

Are there any age restrictions? While not explicitly stated, the tour involves drinking, so participants should be of legal drinking age in Belgium.

In summary, the Antwerp Pub Crawl offers an engaging, authentic way to experience the city’s lively pub scene, guided by passionate locals who love sharing their knowledge and stories. Whether you’re a beer connoisseur or just looking for a fun afternoon, this tour combines history, culture, and great drinks in a way that makes your Antwerp visit truly memorable.