Rotterdam is a city that’s proud of its innovative spirit and its craft beer scene. Unlike many tourist hotspots, Rotterdam offers a lively mix of historic breweries and cutting-edge brewing innovations, all set against a backdrop of striking architecture and harbor views. We particularly enjoy tours like the Rotterdam: Stadshaven Brewery Tour with Beer Tastings for its fascinating look at sustainable brewing practices and the chance to sample a variety of local beers. If you’re into trying a quick but memorable experience, the Noordt Beer Tasting offers a smooth, no-nonsense sampling of Rotterdam’s classic brews. And for those who want a bit of everything—beers, city views, and a water taxi ride—the Breweries and Water Taxi Tour turns a simple brewery visit into a full-day adventure.
Each of these tours offers something different, whether it’s a deep dive into local brewing, a quick tasting, or a scenic combination of city views and craft beer. If you’re wondering which one suits your style, keep reading. We’ll break down what makes each experience unique, and help you pick the best option for your trip.
Overview of the Best Brewery Tours in Rotterdam
For a well-rounded look at Rotterdam’s beer scene, our list includes a variety of tours: from detailed brewery visits to short tastings, and even combined city and water taxi excursions. The options are designed to fit different schedules, budgets, and interests. Whether you want to learn about sustainable brewing practices, enjoy local beers on a terrace, or explore the city from the water while sipping craft brews, Rotterdam has a tour for you.
Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each experience, including what’s included, what makes them stand out, and practical tips to help you decide which to book.
1. Rotterdam: Stadshaven Brewery Tour with Beer Tastings
At number one on our list is the Rotterdam: Stadshaven Brewery Tour with Beer Tastings. This 1-hour to 1-hour 40-minute tour offers a deep dive into one of Rotterdam’s most impressive breweries. The Stadshaven Brewery is housed in a former fruit storehouse—one of the largest in the world—making the setting as fascinating as the beers themselves. During the tour, you’ll learn about modern brewing innovations and the brewery’s commitment to sustainability, which is increasingly important in today’s craft beer scene.
What makes this tour stand out is the opportunity to taste several locally brewed beers while learning about the brewery’s goals and methods. Reviewers highlight the friendly guides and quality beers, with one noting, “Tour was interesting and easy to understand. The quality of all the beers on offer was really nice and enjoyable.” It’s a great choice for those who want to combine education with tasting, all at a budget-friendly price of around $13 per person.
Bottom Line: If you’re curious about how beer is made and want to sample quality local brews in a historic setting, this tour offers excellent value and a memorable experience.
2. Rotterdam: Beer Brewery ‘Noordt’ Beer Tasting
Next on our list is the Noordt Beer Tasting. For only around $9, this 30-minute experience provides a quick but insightful look into a typical Rotterdam brewery. Noordt specializes in no-nonsense, smooth beers, offering a set of three beer flights that you can enjoy on their terrace or inside the tasting room.
The tour emphasizes local beer craftsmanship, with options like traditional Belgian classics or a selection of craft IPAs. The intimate setting and friendly staff make this a favorite for travelers seeking a relaxed, authentic beer experience without a big time commitment. Reviewers appreciate the quality of the beers and the chance to try different styles in a short period—perfect for those with limited time.
Bottom Line: If your goal is a quick, casual intro to Rotterdam’s brewing scene, Noordt’s tasting provides a good balance of variety and local flavor for a reasonable price.
3. Rotterdam: Breweries and Water Taxi Tour
For a more comprehensive experience, the Breweries and Water Taxi Tour offers a 4-hour exploration of Rotterdam’s brewing world combined with scenic city views. This guided tour visits the oldest, newest, and largest breweries in town, giving you a broad perspective on Rotterdam’s brewing diversity. Along the way, you’ll enjoy tastings of local beers and snacks, making it a well-rounded experience.
What makes this tour special is the inclusion of two water taxi rides. These rides provide a chance to see Rotterdam from the water, with the skyline as your backdrop. The tour is perfect for those who love combining city sightseeing with beer tasting. Visitors rave about the stories told about each brewery and the city’s history, alongside the tasty local beers. The price point of about $108 reflects the extensive experience and included amenities.
Bottom Line: Ideal for beer lovers who also want a taste of Rotterdam’s architecture and harbor views, this tour balances culture, scenery, and craft beer into one package.
4. Rotterdam: Brewery Noordt Tour Including Two Beers
Rounding out our list is the Brewery Noordt Tour Including Two Beers. This is a short, 30-minute tasting experience that combines a behind-the-scenes look at the brewery with the chance to enjoy two beers of your choice. It’s perfect for those who want a quick introduction to Rotterdam’s brewing scene without a large time investment or a big price tag—around $20 per person.
During the tour, you’ll learn about the brewing process at Noordt, known for its smooth, no-nonsense beers. The setting is friendly and informal, making it a good fit for travelers who prefer a relaxed experience. The reviews note the knowledgeable staff and the pleasure of savoring well-crafted local beers during the visit. It’s best suited for beer enthusiasts who want a concise, quality experience.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a brief but authentic taste of Rotterdam’s breweries, this tour offers good value and a personal touch.
How to Choose the Right Brewery Tour in Rotterdam
Choosing between these tours depends on your time, budget, and interests. For budget-friendly options, the Noordt Beer Tasting offers a quick introduction, while the Stadshaven Brewery Tour provides more depth and insight into sustainable brewing practices. If you want a full-day experience that combines sightseeing with beer, the Breweries and Water Taxi Tour is hard to beat.
Consider your interests: if you love learning about brewing methods and exploring historic buildings, the Stadshaven tour is ideal. For a casual tasting session, Noordt’s experience is perfect. If you’re after scenic views and city stories along with your beers, the water taxi tour suits you best.
Booking early is wise, especially in summer or during weekends, when Rotterdam’s brewery scene is lively and tours fill quickly. Check availability and start times ahead of your trip to ensure a seamless experience.
Final Thoughts
Rotterdam’s brewery scene offers a variety of ways to enjoy its craft beers, from educational tours in historic buildings to quick tastings in lively taprooms and scenic water taxi excursions. For a deep dive into sustainable brewing, the Stadshaven Brewery tour is a standout. If you’re pressed for time but still want a quality local experience, Noordt’s tasting is a smart choice. And for a full-day adventure that combines beer, views, and city stories, the combination of breweries with a water taxi ride is hard to beat.
No matter your style, these tours are a great way to explore Rotterdam’s innovative spirit through its beer. Remember to book early, and you’ll be all set to enjoy some of the best local brews in a city that’s proud of its craftsmanship and creativity. Cheers to discovering Rotterdam’s beer scene!
