BeerWalk Brussels (English guide)

If you’re considering adding a beer-focused activity to your Brussels trip, the BeerWalk Brussels might just fit the bill. This tour promises not only a chance to taste some of Belgium’s finest brews but also an opportunity to walk through the city’s historic streets, discovering landmarks along the way. While I haven’t done this tour myself, the reviews and details paint a pretty appealing picture for beer lovers and curious travelers alike.

What really catches our eye about this experience is the balance between beer tasting and sightseeing. First, the tour’s price point of around $52 per person feels reasonable considering the inclusion of multiple drinks and the guided experience. Second, the knowledgeable guide, who is also a brewer, seems to elevate the tour from just a pub crawl to an engaging, educational outing.

One aspect to consider is the group size, which caps at 20 people, ensuring a more intimate experience, but it also means booking well in advance—around 3 weeks on average. It’s a perfect choice if you’re eager for a relaxed, informative tour led by someone who truly appreciates Belgium’s brewing heritage. Basically, if you love beer, enjoy walking, and want to learn more about Brussels’ landmarks without it feeling rushed or touristy, this tour could be a good fit.

Key Points

• Expert Guidance: Led by a beer expert who is also a brewer, providing authentic insights.
• Variety of Settings: Visits range from well-known pubs to hidden local spots.
• Landmark Highlights: Includes sights like Manneken Pis and historic market halls.
• Inclusive Tastings: Multiple beers are sampled, with plenty of context provided.
• Duration & Group Size: About 3 hours, with small groups of up to 20 travelers.
• Cost & Value: Around $52, including all taxes, fees, and beverages, offering solid value for a guided, all-inclusive experience.

Starting Point at Les Brasseurs

Your first stop is Les Brasseurs, a cozy folk pub with a history-rich setting and a carefully curated beer list. Here, you’ll kick off with your first specialty beer, setting the tone for the rest of the tour. The casual vibe makes it a welcoming intro, where you can get comfortable and ask questions about Belgian brewing traditions.

The Iconic Manneken Pis Pub

Next, the group moves to a pub right across from the renowned Manneken Pis statue. This site is a Brussels must-see, and the pub adds a local flavor to the experience. Here, you’ll taste a fine example of Belgian beer and maybe snap a few photos of the sculpture. Reviewers mention how this stop offers a chance to enjoy good beer in a fun, lively atmosphere.

La Fleur en Papier Dore

This pub is famous among locals and artists, giving you a taste of Brussels’ bohemian side. It’s a favorite among literary and artistic crowds, and you’ll understand why once you soak in the ambiance. Here, you’ll sample a craft beer, learning about what makes Belgian brews unique. One reviewer called the guide’s choice of locations “quite individual,” which helps you experience the city like a local.

La Mort Subite

The elegant Art Déco design of La Mort Subite offers an atmospheric setting for tasting more Belgian beer. This pub is celebrated for its heritage and selection of Brussels specialties. A reviewer appreciated the “beautiful Art Déco pub,” emphasizing how this stop elevates the tour’s aesthetic and cultural feel.

Place St. Gery and Final Tasting

Your final stop is the historic Place St. Gery, an architectural marvel that’s now a lively hub for culture and heritage. You’ll taste your last beer here, with the chance to reflect on what you’ve learned and experienced. The UNESCO-listed status of Belgian beer adds an interesting layer, and the setting offers a nice contrast to the earlier pubs.

Why This Tour Stands Out

Authentic Local Spots: The inclusion of pubs that locals favor means you’re likely to encounter a more genuine side of Brussels’ beer culture. Several reviews highlight how the guide’s choices helped them discover places they wouldn’t have found on their own.

Educational Angle: The guide’s expertise shines through, making the experience more than just drinking. You learn about Belgian brewing traditions, the history behind the beers, and the city’s landmarks, deepening your appreciation.

Diverse Environments: From casual pubs to art déco elegance, the variety keeps the walk engaging and visually interesting. The walking element also means you get to see some of Brussels’ top sights.

All-Inclusive Pricing: The fee covers all beverages, taxes, water, and even coffee or tea, so there are no surprises. The reviews repeatedly mention the good quality of the beers tasted and the friendly, knowledgeable guidance.

What Could Be Better?

A potential downside is that the tour lasts approximately three hours, which might be a bit long if you’re not a super fan of beer or if you prefer more structured sightseeing. Also, bookings need to be made in advance, as the tour is popular and booked about 23 days ahead on average. Lastly, while the stops are carefully chosen, some travelers might wish for more variety or specific types of beer, depending on their tastes.

Is It Worth the Price?

At about $52 per person, the tour offers good value considering the multiple tastings, guided insights, and included taxes and fees. For beer lovers who want a relaxed, social experience rather than a frantic pub crawl, this is a solid investment. Plus, being led by a guide who’s also a brewer adds authenticity and educational depth you might not get on your own.

This experience is best suited for travelers who:

• Appreciate good beer and want to learn more about Belgian brewing.
• Prefer small-group, guided experiences for a more personal touch.
• Are interested in combining sightseeing with tasting rather than doing separate activities.
• Enjoy walking and exploring city landmarks as part of their cultural experience.
• Want a relaxed, fun outing that balances education, taste, and scenic views.

It’s not ideal if you’re a non-drinker or looking for a fast-paced, party-style pub crawl. Also, if you’re on a strict budget, you might find other ways to sample Belgian beers, but this tour’s value lies in its guided storytelling and variety of spots.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
No, the minimum drinking age is 18, so it’s geared toward adults. It’s perfect if you’re of legal drinking age and interested in beer.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for about 3 hours, giving enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Are beverages included?
Yes, all beverages are included, covering beers, bottled water, and coffee or tea.

What’s the meeting point?
The tour starts at Les Brasseurs, Bd Anspach 77, in Brussels, and finishes back at the same location.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour. Just be sure to cancel in time to get a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Since it involves walking around different pubs and landmarks, it’s best suited for those who can comfortably walk for a few hours.

Are the spots crowded?
Given the group size is limited to 20 travelers, it’s not likely to be overly crowded. Booking well in advance helps secure your spot.

If you’re after a relaxed, informative, and genuinely enjoyable way to experience Brussels’ beer culture, the BeerWalk Brussels offers a well-rounded package. The guided visits to diverse pubs, combined with scenic city highlights and tastings, make it a memorable outing. The knowledgeable guide’s personal touch, along with the variety of locations, keeps things interesting from start to finish.

While it’s not for everyone—especially if you’re not into beer or walking—it’s particularly suited for those who want to deepen their understanding of Belgium’s brewing traditions while soaking in the city’s charm. The price is fair for what you get, especially considering all the included drinks and insights.

Ultimately, this tour strikes a good balance of education, taste, and sightseeing, making it a worthwhile addition to your Brussels itinerary if you love beer or want to experience the city from a different angle.