Discover our Brussels craft breweries with a local, passionate, young guide

If you’re a beer lover heading to Brussels, you’ll find plenty of tours promising a taste of Belgium’s legendary brews. But this particular experience stands out because it’s led by a young, passionate local guide who truly knows the ins and outs of the city’s craft beer scene. Over approximately three hours, you’ll visit a mix of hidden gems and popular spots, taste exclusive beers, and learn about Belgian brewing traditions—and all without the fuss of doing the research yourself.

What really catches our eye is the chance to explore a brewery not typically open to the public, giving you access behind the scenes and a chance to chat directly with the brewers. Plus, the tour combines fun activities like games and quizzes, making it both engaging and educational. One small caveat? With a focus on craft and boutique breweries, this tour might not satisfy those seeking a more traditional or commercial beer experience, but it’s perfect for curious travelers eager to see the local side of Brussels’ beer scene.

This tour is best suited for those who genuinely want to deepen their understanding of Belgian craft beers, enjoy tasting a variety of small-batch brews, and appreciate authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned beer enthusiast or a curious traveler, this tour offers a well-balanced mix of learning, tasting, and fun.

Key Points

• Insider Access: Visit a private brewery often closed to the public, with direct insight from passionate brewers.
• Authentic Experience: Focus on small, local breweries that showcase Brussels’ innovative craft scene.
• Tastings & Tips: Sample six high-quality, unusual beers including IPAs and black porters, with expert recommendations.
• Interactive Fun: Engage with games and quizzes about beer styles, adding an entertaining layer to your tasting journey.
• Expert Guides: Led by knowledgeable, enthusiastic young guides who share fascinating behind-the-scenes stories.
• Value for Money: At around $85, the tour offers a comprehensive experience with private transport and diverse tastings.

A Deep Dive into the Brussels Craft Beer Tour

The Overview

This three-hour tour from BeerSecret is designed for those eager to explore Brussels’ burgeoning craft beer scene beyond the familiar bars. It combines visits to three distinct spots—each offering unique insights and tastings—making it an ideal way to understand local brewing artistry and taste some of the finest, lesser-known beers.

What’s particularly compelling is that the tour is guided by a local, passionate young guide—a factor that adds authenticity and insider knowledge. They don’t just show you around; they share their personal recommendations, brewing secrets, and stories that you simply won’t find in guidebooks.

The Itinerary: Step by Step

Stop 1: La Bourse de Bruxelles
The tour kicks off in the heart of Brussels at the historic La Bourse. Here, you’re introduced to Lambic beer, one of Brussels’ oldest styles. The highlight is tasting exclusive lambic beers straight from a local Brussels brown bar, giving you a genuine taste of traditional Belgian brewing. The advantage of this stop is the free-flowing, authentic experience—you’re drinking in the very ambiance where locals gather.

The review from a recent guest, Zhouchen, shares: “The brewers at L’Annexe are very passionate and knowledgeable about making saison,” which hints at the dedication and expertise you’ll encounter. The 50-minute stop is perfect for soaking in the city’s historical vibe while enjoying your first sip.

Stop 2: Hidden Microbrewery
Next, you head to Brussels’ youngest brewery—a startup run by enthusiastic entrepreneurs eager to share their craft. Expect a warm welcome, lively presentation, and plenty of humor. This stop is a real highlight because you get to ask questions directly to the brewers.

Guests have the chance to sample their new monthly creations or even unfinished beers from the brew kettles—a rare peek behind the curtain. Plus, you might get to bottle a custom beer to take home, making this experience quite personal. A reviewer, StenRoger_K, exclaimed: “Great experienced beer tour guide, tasted a lot of good beers, and had a private tour in a local brewery.” It’s clear that the guides excel at creating a friendly, informative atmosphere.

Stop 3: Trendy Bar in Brussels’ Young District
The tour wraps up at a popular bar known for its vibrant atmosphere and young crowd. Here, you’ll taste two more beer styles tailored to your preferences, whether you’re into lighter or darker brews. It’s a relaxed way to reflect on the day, enjoy some local delicacies, and really savor the flavors.

Before saying goodbye, there’s a fun quiz to crown the top beer expert among your group—winning teams get an extra tasting. Guests are often delighted by this interactive, social element, which adds a memorable touch to the experience.

What’s Included and What to Expect

For $85 per person, the tour covers six tastings of high-quality, often unusual, local beers—including specialty IPAs and black porters—plus snacks to pair with your drinks. Transport is private, ensuring smooth transitions between stops, and the visits include one exclusive brewery not accessible to the public.

The guide’s passion and knowledge shine through, creating a lively, educational environment. Many reviewers comment on the guides’ enthusiasm and ability to share beer facts in an engaging way. Zhouchen notes: “They are very knowledgeable about all the micro brewers in Brussels,” which reassures first-time craft beer explorers.

The Value Proposition

While $85 might seem steep compared to regular bar hops, the value lies in the curated experience, exclusive access, and expert insights. You’re not only tasting beers but learning about Belgian brewing techniques, styles, and local customs. Plus, the opportunity to bottle your own beer or taste unfinished brews adds a personal touch that makes this tour worth the price.

The Experience for Different Travelers

This tour is ideal for beer aficionados who want to go beyond the typical pub crawl and get an authentic look at Brussels’ craft scene. It’s also perfect for those who enjoy learning and tasting in a relaxed, interactive setting. Families with older children, groups of friends, or couples will all find value, especially if they love trying new flavors and hearing stories from passionate locals.

However, if you’re more interested in visiting historic sites or prefer a more traditional beer experience, this tour might feel a bit niche. It’s very focused on craft and microbreweries, which means it’s best suited for those eager to explore the innovative side of Belgian brewing.

The Sum Up

This Brussels craft beer tour delivers a rich, authentic experience that combines tasting, learning, and fun. Led by a knowledgeable and enthusiastic guide, you’ll visit a private brewery, sample exclusive beers, and gain insights into what makes Belgian craft brews so special. The interactive elements, including quizzes and the chance to bottle your own beer, make it engaging without feeling touristy or superficial.

It’s a fantastic choice for travelers who want to go beyond the surface of Belgian beer, uncover hidden gems, and enjoy genuine conversations with passionate brewers. The small group size and private transportation ensure a comfortable, personalized experience that feels more like hanging out with friends than a guided tour.

For anyone keen to expand their beer palate and learn the stories behind each brew, this tour offers genuine value—packed with flavor, knowledge, and memorable moments.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a quick yet comprehensive experience.

What is the price per person?
It’s around $85.38, which covers six beer tastings, snacks, private transport, and exclusive access to a private brewery.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, guests frequently praise the guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge, especially about local microbreweries and beer styles.

Can I taste special or limited edition beers?
Absolutely. The tour includes tastings of limited edition beers, such as IPAs and black porters, often not found elsewhere.

Is the tour suitable for non-English speakers?
Yes, an English-language tour is offered, and more languages are available on request on the website.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but since it involves alcohol testing, it’s suitable for those of legal drinking age.

What’s included in the tour?
You get six tastings of high-quality, local beers, snacks, private transportation, and access to a private brewery.

Is there an option for a custom tour?
Yes, if you’re interested in visiting extra bars or other attractions like chocolateries, you can book a private, customized experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

Can I get a refund if I change my mind?
Yes, if you cancel more than 24 hours before the tour, you’ll receive a full refund.

This tour is a delightful way to dive into Brussels’ craft beer scene while enjoying a fun, educational, and authentic experience. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or just curious about Belgian brewing, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation—and probably a few new favorites.