BEER WAY Ljubljana: Boat & Craft Beer Tasting Tour

Imagine cruising along the Ljubljanica River, surrounded by Ljubljana’s iconic bridges and architecture, all while sipping on some of the city’s finest craft beers. This experience combines a scenic boat ride with the chance to taste four different microbrew styles, each from a different local brewer — a perfect way to relax and soak in the city’s atmosphere.

What truly makes this tour stand out is the intimate setting on a cozy boat, paired with the opportunity to learn directly from brewers who personally introduce their creations. It’s an experience that invites you to slow down, enjoy authentic flavors, and see Ljubljana from a fresh, waterside perspective.

While the price of $52 per person isn’t the cheapest around, the combination of sightseeing, local storytelling, and craft beer tasting offers a good value for those eager to blend cultural exploration with a bit of fun. One thing to consider is that the tour lasts about an hour, so it’s a quick, laid-back activity rather than an all-day event. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate small-group experiences, local flavors, and a relaxed pace.

If you love discovering local breweries, enjoy scenic waterways, or want to add a unique twist to your Ljubljana trip, this boat and beer tour checks many boxes. It’s particularly appealing for adults looking for a casual, memorable way to end the week or start a weekend.

Key Points

• Unique combination of boat cruise and craft beer tasting
• Expert local guides and brewers enhance the experience
• Iconic Ljubljana landmarks like the Triple Bridge and Dragon Bridge are featured
• Small group, intimate setting perfect for relaxed enjoyment
• One-hour duration makes it an easy addition to your itinerary
• Inclusive of four beer styles from four microbrewers for authentic local flavor

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Scenic Boat Ride on the Ljubljanica River

This tour begins at the riverfront, where you’ll meet your guide and hop aboard a small, cushioned boat — think of it as floating in your comfy living room with great views. The boat’s size lends a cozy, intimate atmosphere, perfect for chatting with your guide and fellow travelers.

Expect a gentle cruise through the heart of Ljubljana, offering a different perspective on the city’s famous landmarks. From the water, you’ll get a front-row seat to sights like the Triple Bridge, with its elegant arches and lively atmosphere, and the Dragon Bridge, with its iconic mythical sculptures.

Personal Stories and Local Insights

What makes this tour particularly engaging is the storytelling aspect. The guide — who may also serve as your beer host — shares interesting tidbits about Ljubljana’s past and present, making history feel alive. One reviewer noted that the guide’s narration added depth to the experience, making the sights more meaningful.

Craft Beer Tasting from Microbrewers

The core of the activity is sampling four different craft beer styles, each from a different microbrewery in Ljubljana. Each beer is introduced personally by the brewer, which adds a layer of authenticity and passion you can’t get from just visiting a bar.

From the reviews, we know that the beers vary, and some brewers are more involved than others. One guest mentioned that the brewer took the time to personally introduce their beer, which makes the tasting feel special.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Beers and Their Flavors

While specific styles aren’t listed, you can expect to taste a variety that shows off Ljubljana’s brewing scene. This could include anything from hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts or refreshing lagers — all crafted locally. The experience allows you to appreciate the nuances of each style and understand what makes Ljubljana’s craft scene unique.

The Value of the Experience

When you consider the cost of $52, it covers the boat ride, local guiding, and four tastings. Compared to a typical pub crawl or brewery visit, this is a more relaxed and scenic way to enjoy Ljubljana’s craft scene. Plus, the inclusion of a guided commentary makes it feel more like a cultural activity than just drinking.

One review simply states, “Fitted,” which indicates that the experience strikes a good balance for most visitors — not overly long, but enough to savor the beers and the views.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: BOBERMARINE

Your journey begins at BOBERMARINE, the designated meeting point, which is conveniently located on the river. From here, the boat departs for a one-hour cruise.

The Cruise

As you glide along, you’ll pass Prešeren Square with its Triple Bridge, renowned for its architectural elegance. The pink church nearby adds a splash of color to the skyline. The boat offers an unobstructed view of the Plenik’s Covered Market, a lively hub of local produce and crafts.

Further along, the Dragon Bridge with its impressive statues looms over the river, making for fantastic photo opportunities. You also pass the Cobblers Bridge, one of Ljubljana’s oldest bridges, which adds to the charm of your waterside tour.

The Return

After an hour of sightseeing and tasting, you’ll return to BOBERMARINE, ending your relaxing trip. The tour’s short duration makes it easy to slot into a busy sightseeing day or as a delightful evening activity.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:

• The boat tour itself, with a guide providing commentary
• Craft beer tastings from four microbrewers
• Sightseeing through Ljubljana’s scenic waterways

Not included:

• Food — so plan to have a meal before or after
• Transportation to/from the activity — it’s located at the riverfront and easy to reach

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: Approximately 1 hour — ideal for fitting into an afternoon or evening
• Price: $52 per person — offers good value considering the guided experience and four local beers
• Languages: The tour offers guides in multiple languages, including English, German, French, Spanish, Italian, and Slovenian, making it accessible for many travelers
• Age restriction: Participants must be at least 18 years old to enjoy the beer tastings. If traveling with younger companions, they can still enjoy the scenic cruise.
• Availability & Booking: Be sure to check for specific start times and availability, as these can vary. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons.
• Cancellation policy: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexible planning.

Authentic Reviews and Insights

One reviewer called the experience “Fitted,” which suggests that it hits the mark for many. The guide’s storytelling, combined with personal introductions from brewers, adds a layer of authenticity and makes each tasting session feel special.

Another review highlights the comfortable boat setting and the relaxing pace — perfect for winding down after a day of sightseeing or kicking off a fun evening.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This activity is ideal for adults who enjoy craft beer and want to discover Ljubljana’s local brewing scene in a relaxed, scenic setting. It’s perfect if you prefer small-group experiences that offer personal interaction and insider knowledge.

It’s also great for those who want a taste of the city’s architecture and landmarks without extensive walking or daytime commitments. If you’re after a unique, culturally-rich experience that combines scenery, storytelling, and local flavors, this fits the bill.

However, if you’re not a fan of beer or don’t like boat rides, this might not be your best choice. Also, since it’s a short tour, it works best as part of a broader exploration of Ljubljana.

Final Thoughts

The BEER WAY Ljubljana boat & craft beer tasting tour offers a relaxed, authentic way to see the city from a different angle while sampling some of Slovenia’s best microbrews. The intimate boat ride, paired with local guides and brewers, makes for a memorable experience — whether you’re a beer enthusiast or just looking for a fun, cultural activity.

While it’s not a comprehensive city tour, it provides a delightful mix of scenic views and flavorful discoveries. Its value lies in the combination of sights, stories, and tastes, all packed into a compact, accessible package perfect for all kinds of travelers.

If you’re seeking a laid-back, authentic Ljubljana experience with a focus on local craft beer, this tour is a charming choice and will leave you with lasting memories of the city’s waterside charm and brewing talent.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers or under 18s?
No, since the craft beer tastings are only for guests aged 18 and over, but the boat cruise itself is a scenic activity that non-drinkers can still enjoy.

How long does the tour last?
The boat ride lasts about one hour, making it a quick and easy addition to your day in Ljubljana.

What beers will I taste?
You’ll sample four different craft beer styles from four Ljubljana microbrewers, each personally introduced by the brewer, showcasing local talent.

Can I book a private group?
Yes, private groups are available, which offers a more personalized and intimate experience.

Are guides available in multiple languages?
Absolutely. The tour offers guides in Czech, English, French, Slovenian, Spanish, German, and Italian.

Do I need to bring anything?
Just yourself and an appetite for good scenery and local beer. The boat provides seating and a comfortable environment.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for the weather, and consider bringing a light jacket if it’s cool or breezy on the water.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your travel plans.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby