Düsseldorf: Düsseldorfs Altbier – & Craftbeer-Tour

If you’re into beer, history, or just curious about local traditions, the Düsseldorf Altbier & Craft Beer Tour might catch your eye. While we haven’t personally joined this tour, a detailed look at what it offers suggests it’s a well-rounded way to get to know the city’s beer heritage while sampling some excellent brews. It’s particularly appealing if you appreciate a mix of storytelling, authentic local spots, and a bit of hearty food along the way.

What we really like about this experience is the focus on Düsseldorf’s famous Altbier, which is recognized as a craft beer before craft beers became a worldwide trend. Plus, the behind-the-scenes visits to breweries and pubs promise a genuine look at how this tradition is kept alive today. However, keep in mind that this tour lasts around 3 hours, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy a relaxed pace and are comfortable walking through historic streets. It’s a great fit for beer lovers, history buffs, or anyone wanting a taste of local culture in a lively old town setting.

One consideration might be the tour’s language — it’s conducted in German, which is perfect if you’re fluent or eager to practice. Also, it’s not suited for children under 16 or pregnant women, so if you’re traveling with younger kids or expecting, this one’s probably not for you. Overall, if you’re after an engaging, beer-focused experience in Düsseldorf, this tour seems like a solid choice. It’s especially worthwhile for those wanting more than just a tasting but an insight into the city’s brewing soul.

Key Points

• Authentic focus on Düsseldorfs Altbier with behind-the-scenes brewery visits
• Engaging guide sharing both technical details and fun anecdotes
• Tastings included at multiple stops, including local breweries and bars
• Culinary highlight with a hearty pork roll at a traditional snack stand
• Accessible and flexible booking options with free cancellation
• Not suitable for children under 16 or pregnant women

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect from the Tour

This 3-hour guided walk through Düsseldorf’s Old Town (Altstadt) gives you a chance to explore more than just the usual sightseeing. The focus is on the city’s famous Altbier, a style that pre-dates many modern craft beers, which locals have been brewing and enjoying for generations. The tour kicks off at the Uerige Brewery, a well-loved spot where you get to sample some of their signature beers. The small tastings here are a perfect way to start, giving you a real taste of tradition.

From there, the journey continues to the Brauhaus Zum Schlüssel, a historic brewery where water from the own spring still plays a role in brewing. The guide will likely share stories about how the roasted malt used here has been a secret passed from one generation to the next. This stop is a highlight for those interested in brewing techniques and local secrets that give Düsseldorfs Altbier its distinct character.

Next, the experience moves to the Holy Craft Bar, where you’ll meet beerkeepers—local staff who are passionate about their craft. Here, the tastings become more varied, often including newer craft styles alongside the traditional Altbier. You’ll get to see how modern trends are influencing a centuries-old tradition, making this a spot where history and contemporary brewing meet.

Behind the Scenes & Tasting Experience

What makes this tour particularly valuable is the behind-the-scenes access. Seeing ingredients, hearing about brewing processes, and chatting with beer experts provide a more meaningful connection to what you’re drinking. As one reviewer said, the guide was “very competent” and able to answer all questions, which adds a lot to the experience.

You’ll also get some context about how Altbier compares to microbreweries across Germany and the world. It’s fascinating to learn that Düsseldorfs craft beer was ahead of its time—craftsmanship rooted in tradition but still evolving with new trends.

The Food Stop and Final Taste

When the tour nears its end, a stop at HamHam bei Josef is usually included. Here, a hearty pork roll awaits, providing the perfect fuel after a few beer tastings. This classic snack complements the beer perfectly and leaves you full and satisfied. Based on reviews, this snack is definitely a highlight—”the Schweinebrötchen was very tasty,” as one guest put it.

Group Size, Pacing, and Atmosphere

Groups are generally a manageable size, which means you’ll get a more personalized experience. The tour is paced comfortably, with plenty of time for questions and socializing. The walking itself is easy, mainly around the historic streets of Old Town, so it doesn’t require strenuous effort.

Most reviews praise the guide’s knowledge and humor, making the experience both educational and fun. The tour is conducted in German, which adds an authentic flavor, but this might be a consideration if your German isn’t fluent.

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Price & Value

While the exact cost isn’t provided here, reviews suggest that many find the tour offers excellent value—combining tastings, behind-the-scenes access, and local food all in just three hours. If you’re a beer enthusiast or history lover, this is a well-rounded, immersive experience worth the price.

Practical Tips for Participants

• Arrive early at the meeting point, the Tourist-Information “Visit Düsseldorf” at Rheintraße 3, to ensure a smooth start.
• Wear comfortable shoes for walking in the old town’s cobblestone streets.
• Be prepared for the tour’s language being German; some familiarity will help you get more from the experience.
• Keep in mind that children under 16 and pregnant women are not suited for this tour.
• If you’re someone who enjoys learning the story behind your drinks, this tour will satisfy that curiosity.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you love beer, enjoy discovering local traditions, or want to understand Düsseldorf’s unique brewing culture, this tour is a great pick. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate a good story, good company, and a relaxed pace. Because of the focus on beer and the short duration, it suits travelers looking for a fun, immersive activity without a huge time commitment.

This Düsseldorf Altbier & Craft Beer Tour offers a well-balanced mix of history, taste, and behind-the-scenes insights. Many reviewers have praised the guide’s friendliness and knowledge, making it an engaging way to explore the city’s beer culture. The tastings, combined with the storytelling, help bring the old town alive, giving you a deeper appreciation for what makes Düsseldorfs Altbier so special.

For those who want a true taste of local tradition, along with some fun facts and hearty snacks, this tour delivers. Keep in mind it’s not ideal if you’re traveling with very young children or need an English-speaking guide, but for beer lovers and curious travelers, it’s a solid choice that will leave you with both knowledge and a few new favorite brews.

Is the tour conducted in English?
No, the tour is run in German, so some familiarity with the language will enhance your experience.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 3 hours, making it a manageable activity for an afternoon or early evening.

What stops are included in the tour?
It starts at Uerige Brewery, continues to Zum Schlüssel, then Holy Craft Bar, and concludes with a snack at HamHam bei Josef.

Are tastings included?
Yes, samples of local beers are provided at several stops, giving you a real taste of Düsseldorf’s brewing tradition.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible.

Are children under 16 allowed?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 16.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking around the old town’s cobblestone streets.

Is the price worth it?
Most reviews suggest the tour offers good value, considering the tastings, behind-the-scenes access, and local food.

Would this be a good activity if I like craft beers?
Absolutely. It highlights the tradition and modern trends of Düsseldorfs brewing scene, making it ideal for craft beer fans.

If you’re headed to Düsseldorf and want a relaxed, engaging way to learn about its beer culture, this tour could be just what you’re looking for. Just prepare for some German, pace yourself, and enjoy the stories and flavors of this lively old town.

You can check availability for your dates here: