Budapest: Brewery Tour at “First Craft Beer” & Beer Tasting

Exploring Budapest’s Craft Beer Scene: A Closer Look at the “First Craft Beer” Brewery Tour

If you’re a beer lover visiting Budapest, the Brewery Tour at First Craft Beer offers a fantastic glimpse behind the scenes of Hungary’s modern craft brewing movement. This guided experience, which lasts about an hour, combines education with tasting, making it perfect for those curious about how their favorite brews are made—and eager to sample some unique flavors. The brewery itself is one of Budapest’s most modern and visually appealing craft beer venues, giving visitors a contemporary setting to learn and enjoy.

One aspect we particularly appreciate is how the tour offers insights into the ingredients—malted barley, hops, and the brewing machines—that craft beer enthusiasts love to explore. Plus, the variety of beers available for tasting—including IPAs, fruited sour beers, and barrel-aged specialties—ensures there’s something for all. However, since the tour is quite concise, it’s best suited for those with a genuine interest in beer or visitors looking for a quick, immersive experience rather than an exhaustive brewing course.

A potential consideration is the group size and scheduling; the tour requires a minimum of three people and runs in the late afternoon or early evening, which might limit spontaneity for some travelers. Still, if you’re in Budapest and want a fun, educational, and flavorful activity, this brewery tour is a solid pick—particularly for those keen on discovering Hungary’s evolving craft beer scene.

Key Points

• Educational Experience: Learn about the brewing process, ingredients, and beer styles.
• Tasting Variety: Sample four different beers, including IPAs and sour beers.
• Modern Venue: Visually attractive, contemporary brewery with over 3 million liters brewed since 2017.
• Authentic Insights: Tour guides include brewery staff like brewers and warehouse workers, adding authenticity.
• Hands-On Elements: Tasting malted barley and hops enhances understanding of brewing ingredients.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, ideal for flexible travel plans.

An In-Depth Look at the Brewery Tour Experience

The First Craft Beer Brewery tour begins at the designated meeting point inside the SelfStore courtyard, where you’ll find the FIRST Taproom tucked into the right corner. The setup is straightforward—arrive via the car entrance to the courtyard, and you’ll be greeted by friendly staff who guide you into this sleek, modern brew house.

The Setting and Atmosphere

The brewery’s interior is sleek and inviting, emphasizing a modern aesthetic that reflects Budapest’s new wave of craft brewing. Since the brewery has been operational since 2017, it has quickly established itself as one of Budapest’s must-visit craft beer spots. With over three million liters brewed, the brewery’s equipment and brewing technologies are state-of-the-art, giving visitors a real sense of the scale and sophistication involved in contemporary craft beer production.

The Tour Itself

The guided tour lasts about 60 minutes, during which you’ll be led by someone working directly in the brewery—be it a brewer, a warehouse worker, or other staff members. This insider perspective adds a layer of authenticity and depth that more generic tours sometimes lack. The guide explains the brewing process from start to finish, showing you the machinery and highlighting the ingredients used.

One highlight is the opportunity to taste malted barley and hops, which are fundamental to understanding how different ingredients influence flavor. Several reviewers have mentioned how educational and engaging this part of the tour is, noting that it really helps to differentiate between different beer styles and flavors.

Learning About Beer Styles and Technologies

The guide shares details about the Small Batch range, beers brewed only once in a lifetime, which is a fascinating aspect for beer aficionados. You’ll also hear about their main offerings like India Pale Ales (IPAs), fruited sour beers, and barrel-aged specialties. The variety of beers available for sampling reflects the brewery’s innovative approach and commitment to craft brewing.

The Tasting Experience

After exploring the brewery and learning about the ingredients and machines, you’ll get to enjoy four 2-deciliter pours of different beers. This tasting includes a range of styles—probably including the famed IPAs and sour beers, with reviews indicating that these are “heavily bodied and barrel-aged” options, appealing to those who prefer more complex flavors. The tasting also provides an opportunity to appreciate the aroma, color, and mouthfeel of each style in a relaxed setting.

The Value of the Experience

Considering the price, the inclusion of four beers plus the guided tour makes this experience quite good value for those interested in craft beer education and tasting. It’s not a comprehensive brewing masterclass, but it offers sufficient depth for most casual fans and curious newcomers alike.

The Logistics: What You Need to Know

The tour is designed as a private experience, which means groups are limited to at least three people—making it more intimate and personalized. The tour runs after 18:00 on weekdays and after 14:00 on Saturdays, which is perfect for winding down after a day of sightseeing. Because the activity is available only on select days (Wednesday to Friday, and Thursday), planning ahead is essential.

Booking is flexible—reservations can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund, giving you peace of mind if plans change. The tour is conducted in both Hungarian and English, catering to international visitors. Note that minors, pregnant women, and those over 70 are not allowed, reflecting the alcohol-focused nature of the experience.

Group Size and Atmosphere

Since the experience is private, it’s an excellent choice for small groups, couples, or even solo travelers wanting a personalized look at Budapest’s craft beer scene. The small group size fosters interaction, making it easier to ask questions and engage with guides.

Practical Tips for Visitors

• Arrive early and inside the courtyard for smooth check-in.
• Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be touring brewery equipment and facilities.
• Remember, alcohol consumption is part of the experience—drink responsibly.
• If you’re sensitive to alcohol or have dietary restrictions, ask beforehand about the beers served.

Authenticity and Personal Insights from Recent Reviewers

Many visitors appreciate how “the guides are friendly and knowledgeable, giving real insight into brewing, not just a scripted tour.” One reviewer mentioned that they loved tasting malted barley and hops directly, which made understanding the ingredients much easier.

Others highlighted the quality of the beers—noting how the IPAs and sour beers were especially flavorful and well-crafted. The fact that guides include members of the brewery team, rather than just professional tour guides, adds a layer of authenticity that’s hard to find in larger, more commercialized tours.

While some found the 1-hour duration to be brief, they acknowledged that the depth of information and tasting options provided good value for a quick, engaging activity. One guest said, “This tour was a perfect balance of education and tasting. I learned a lot about brewing and enjoyed some fantastic beers.”

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This brewery tour is ideal for beer enthusiasts eager to understand the craft behind their favorite brews, or travelers wanting a fun, relaxed introduction to Budapest’s craft scene. It’s especially good for those who appreciate interactive experiences, like tasting ingredients firsthand and learning about brewing techniques.

If you’re after a quick, informative, and tasty activity that’s easy to fit into your Budapest itinerary, this tour fits the bill. It offers a good mix of education, comfort, and flavor—without overloading on details or complexity. Just keep in mind the schedule and group size requirements when planning.

The First Craft Beer Brewery Tour offers a genuine, friendly, and engaging look into Hungary’s vibrant craft beer culture—perfect for those wanting to deepen their appreciation of beer while enjoying some excellent taste tests.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, children under 18 are not permitted, as the experience involves tasting alcohol and is designed for adult participants.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Is the tour available in English?
Yes, the tour is conducted in both Hungarian and English, accommodating international visitors.

What is included in the price?
The price covers a guided tour of the brewery, four 2-deciliter beer tastings, and an explanation of brewing ingredients like malted barley and hops.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 60 minutes, making it a quick but thorough experience.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is inside the SelfStore courtyard, at the FIRST Taproom on Váci út 83.

Are there any restrictions on the tour?
Yes, it’s not suitable for unaccompanied minors, pregnant women, or people over 70 years old.

Is the tour private or can I join a group?
It’s a private group experience, with a minimum of three people required to book.

What beers will I taste?
You’ll sample a variety including IPAs, fruited sour beers, and possibly barrel-aged or small batch selections, depending on availability.

In the end, if you’re looking for an authentic, educational, and flavorful peek into Budapest’s craft beer scene, this brewery tour is a smart choice. It offers a well-balanced mix of learning and tasting, led by passionate brewery staff, all within a sleek, modern setting.