Lisbon: Craft Beer Tasting

If you’re heading to Lisbon and have a taste for discovering new flavors, the Lisbon: Craft Beer Tasting tour offers a fantastic peek into Portugal’s emerging craft beer scene. Hosted by the friendly team at Taverna das Marias, this experience combines a relaxed atmosphere with expertly curated beers, making it ideal for curious beer lovers or anyone wanting a local, authentic treat.

What really stands out is the dynamic selection of Portuguese craft beers—each visit promises a different lineup, thanks to the daily-changing barrels. Plus, the passionate guides do a wonderful job explaining each label’s story, adding layers of appreciation to each sip. On the flip side, this experience doesn’t include food, so if you’re hungry, you’ll want to plan for some snacks or a meal afterward. Overall, it’s a perfect outing for those interested in local brews or looking for a chilled, educational activity in Lisbon’s vibrant city center.

Key Points

• Variety & Freshness: Beers change daily, offering new surprises with every visit.
• Expert Guidance: Passionate beer specialists explain the stories and details behind each label.
• Authentic Experience: Focus on Portuguese craft beers, not mass-produced options.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: A friendly setting ideal for groups, friends, or solo travelers.
• Inclusive & Flexible: Book in advance, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
• No Food Included: For snacks or meals, consider the nearby tasting menu at Taverna das Marias.

An In-Depth Look at the Lisbon Craft Beer Tasting Experience

Starting Point & Location

The tour begins at the Gastrobar Taverna das Marias, conveniently located just beside Campo das Cebolas and Terreiro do Paço, near the metro. This prime spot in Lisbon’s historic center makes it easy to combine with other sightseeing. The meeting point is friendly and welcoming, setting the tone for a laid-back yet engaging tasting session.

What to Expect During the Tour

This experience is designed to be a sensory journey, where you’ll taste five different Portuguese craft beers in 10cl portions. The focus is on quality, creativity, and storytelling, making each sip more meaningful. The beers are served at a relaxed pace, allowing ample time to explore the flavors and aromas.

The Beers Tasted

The selection showcases a diverse range of styles, starting with American Lager (8a Colina), which offers a crisp, refreshing profile with a fruity touch—perfect for those who appreciate lighter beers. Next, the Zen Happy Lager from Cerveja Avós impresses with its citrus aroma and well-balanced bitterness, a great introduction to Portuguese craft brewing’s vibrant side.

For those seeking more intensity, the InConcert IPL combines that satisfying lager body with bold IPA-inspired flavors—resinous, citrusy, and winning a silver medal in Brazil. The Raspberry Sour from HopSin adds a fruity punch with its refreshing acidity and vivid raspberry flavor, ideal for hot days or those who love a bit of tartness.

Finally, the Dry Stout from Cerveja Canil rounds out the tasting with its full-bodied, toasted coffee notes, offering a more sophisticated and indulgent experience. Each of these beers reflects the creativity and quality brewing happening right in Portugal, defying the common misconception that the country only makes wine.

Why We Loved the Experience

One of the biggest highlights is the constant rotation of barrels—meaning no two visits are the same. The expert guides, often passionate beer enthusiasts, share insights into each label and brewing process, transforming a simple tasting into a mini beer course. The informal setup makes it easy to ask questions or just relax with friends.

Charles, one of the reviewers, even mentioned, “I did not realize the craft beer scene that has been brewing here in Portugal, and this tasting helped me see some of it.” The guide’s knowledge and storytelling turn each beer into a story, making the tasting not just about flavor but about understanding the local brewing culture.

Practical Details & Value

The cost covers five 10cl pours, giving enough to savor each beer without feeling overwhelmed. This format is excellent for appreciating the aromas and flavors, especially if you’re a true enthusiast. The session typically lasts long enough to enjoy a few beers and have a chat about the brewing process.

Booking is flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it easy to adapt your plans. The tour is conducted in English and Portuguese, ensuring clear communication for international visitors.

While the tour doesn’t include food, the team recommends pairing your beers with snacks or their own tasting menu at Taverna das Marias, which promises a delicious exploration of Portuguese flavors.

What’s Missing & Who Should Consider This

Since food isn’t included, travelers who want a full meal with their drinks might prefer to arrange that separately. The tasting is best suited for adults with an interest in beer, local culture, or simply trying something different in Lisbon. It’s also perfect for travelers who appreciate a relaxed atmosphere and storytelling, rather than high-energy pub crawls.

The experience’s small group setting often feels intimate, making it easy to engage with guides and fellow travelers. If you love to learn about the stories behind your drinks and enjoy discovering hidden gems, this tour hits the mark.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re curious about Portugal’s craft beer scene or want to experience a local, authentic beverage in a friendly setting, this tasting is a winner. It’s especially good for those who enjoy learning from passionate guides and trying different styles of beer—from light lagers to bold stouts.

Travelers who appreciate flexibility and changing options will enjoy the daily variation in barrels, ensuring each visit offers something new. It’s also a great activity for groups of friends, solo explorers, or couples wanting a relaxed, informative experience.

If you’re also a foodie, pairing these beers with a tasting menu or local snacks later at Taverna das Marias will elevate the experience even further.

Final Thoughts

The Lisbon Craft Beer Tasting by Taverna das Marias offers much more than just a sip of beer. It’s a chance to discover Portugal’s emerging craft brewing scene, learn about local labels, and enjoy a friendly, informal setting. The variety of styles ensures there’s something for all—whether you prefer crisp lagers, fruity sours, or dark stouts.

The fact that the beers are always changing keeps the experience fresh, making it an excellent repeat activity if you’re in Lisbon for a few days. The knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with their stories and passion, transforming a simple tasting into an engaging cultural encounter.

For those who value authentic experiences, quality drinks, and a relaxed atmosphere, this tour offers fantastic value for money. It’s especially suited for beer enthusiasts or curious travelers looking to add a unique twist to their Lisbon visit.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers or minors?
No, this is a beer tasting experience designed for adults. Non-drinkers or minors won’t be able to participate, but their companions can enjoy the atmosphere at Taverna das Marias.

How many beers will I taste during the session?
You will sample five Portuguese craft beers, each served in 10cl portions—enough to enjoy the aromas and flavors without feeling overly full.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Yes, provided there’s availability, you can reserve your spot close to the date. Booking is flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours before.

What languages are available during the tour?
The tour is conducted in both English and Portuguese, ensuring clear communication regardless of your language preference.

Is food included in the tasting?
No, food isn’t part of the tasting. However, visitors are encouraged to enjoy the tasting menu at Taverna das Marias afterwards, which offers delicious Portuguese dishes.

What’s the best way to get to the meeting point?
The meeting point is easy to reach via Lisbon’s metro, located next to Campo das Cebolas and Terreiro do Paço. It’s situated in a lively area perfect for exploring before or after your tour.

Can I bring friends or family who aren’t drinking?
Yes, friends and family who aren’t drinking can join you at the venue but won’t participate in the tasting. They can relax and enjoy the ambiance while you sample the beers.

In summary, the Lisbon craft beer tasting at Taverna das Marias offers a friendly, authentic, and engaging way to explore Portugal’s burgeoning brewing scene. With changing barrels, passionate guides, and a relaxed setting, it’s ideal for beer lovers, curious travelers, or anyone wanting a genuine taste of Lisbon’s local flavors.