Heidelberg is a city that combines charming medieval streets with a lively student vibe, making it a perfect place for drinking tours. Whether you’re interested in traditional pubs, craft breweries, or private nightlife experiences, Heidelberg offers options for every kind of drinker. We especially like the Heidelberg Pub crawl through the old town because it offers a lively way to explore the historic center while enjoying drinks in the best local bars. It’s a fun, social experience that includes at least one drink per bar and visits to three different spots on Untere Straße, known for its energetic bars and vibrant atmosphere. Interested? Check out the pub crawl experience here.
If you are a beer enthusiast, the Beer and Old Town Tour stands out with its small-group approach and expert guiding, offering a deeper dive into Heidelberg’s beer scene. For those looking for a more personalized and insider experience, the private pub crawl with insider-guide & shots is a fantastic choice, especially for groups celebrating special occasions. For a mix of cultural sights and craft beer, Heidelberg’s Craft Beer and Street Food Tour combines tasting local street foods with sampling innovative brews.
Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each tour to help you choose the perfect Heidelberg drinking experience.
1. Heidelberg: Pub crawl through the old town, drinks included
This pub crawl through Heidelberg’s old town offers a lively way to experience the city’s nightlife. At just $41 per person, it provides an affordable and social way to discover Heidelberg’s best bars. Over 2 to 2.5 hours, you’ll visit at least three different pubs, each with a complimentary drink included. The route primarily focuses on the bustling Untere Straße, the heart of Heidelberg’s nightlife, where you can enjoy everything from cozy taverns to lively bars.
What makes this tour stand out is its emphasis on socializing and local atmosphere. It’s perfect for travelers who want to meet new people and soak up Heidelberg’s energetic scene without worrying about the logistics. The reviews, with a 4.3/5 rating from 48 reviews, highlight the fun atmosphere and the chance to enjoy drinks in some of the best local spots. It’s a great choice for budget-conscious travelers who want to experience Heidelberg’s nightlife authentically, without the fuss of booking individual bars.
Bottom Line: An affordable, social, and casual way to explore Heidelberg’s bar scene with drinks included and a lively guide to set the tone for the night.
2. Beer and Old Town Tour
For about $206.35 per person, the Beer and Old Town Tour offers a more intimate exploration of Heidelberg’s beer scene. With a duration of around 2 hours 30 minutes, this guided tour takes you to a microbrewery, a classic student pub, and a modern bar, providing a well-rounded look at the city’s beer culture. The tour starts at a central location, making it easy to find, and is limited to just 15 people, giving you a chance to ask questions and really connect with your guide.
This tour is unique because it combines history, local stories, and tastings. Your guide shares insights about Heidelberg’s long-standing brewing traditions and points out the best places for local beer lovers. During the tour, you’ll enjoy a complimentary first drink and sample some of the city’s finest brews, making it a great value for those eager to learn and taste. The itinerary includes stops at renowned spots like Kulturbrauerei, Hotel Schnookeloch, and Heidelberg’s oldest residential building, Hotel Zum Ritter.
Reviews praise the knowledgeable guide Henry, who makes the experience lively and informative. It’s ideal for beer lovers who want a deeper understanding of Heidelberg’s brewing history while enjoying quality drinks. The tour’s intimate group size fosters a friendly, engaging atmosphere.
Bottom Line: A must for beer aficionados wanting a guided, behind-the-scenes look at Heidelberg’s brewing culture with plenty of tastings.
3. Heidelberg: Private pub crawl with insider-guide & shots
If privacy and a customized experience are your priorities, the Private pub crawl with insider-guide & shots is hard to beat. Priced at $323 for groups up to 10, this 4-hour tour offers a tailored nightlife adventure. Your guide will take you to 3-4 unique bars, each with reserved entry and drink specials, ensuring you skip long lines and get exclusive access.
This experience is perfect for bachelor parties, friends celebrating a special occasion, or corporate groups. The highlight is the plentiful free shots, fun drinking games, and an amusing city quiz that adds entertainment to the evening. The guide not only brings good vibes but also shares interesting facts about Heidelberg to keep the night engaging. You’ll also receive anti-hangover powder, so you can party without worrying about the morning after.
Guests consistently comment on how much fun they had, with reviews like, “Our guide was awesome. We had a super fun night with more than enough shots and a great atmosphere.” It’s an excellent choice if you want a private, lively, and memorable night out with friends.
Bottom Line: Best for private groups who want a fully personalized, fun-filled night with insider access and plenty of drinks.
4. Heidelberg: Craft Beer and Street Food Tour
The Craft Beer and Street Food Tour offers a flavorful twist on Heidelberg’s food and drink scene, lasting around 3 hours. For a more flexible experience, you can check available start times. This tour combines sampling Heidelberg’s best street foods—think local sausages and quick bites—with tasting innovative craft beers. It’s a fantastic way to explore beyond the usual tourist spots and indulge in local flavors.
What makes this tour different is its focus on customization—you can tailor the stops to your interests, whether it’s more street food or specific breweries. You’ll visit a variety of pubs, bars, and restaurants, gaining insights into Heidelberg’s culinary scene as you go. It appeals to travelers who want a relaxed, hands-on experience that combines gastronomy with social drinking.
Despite fewer reviews (4 reviews at 4.3/5), it’s a good pick for those who want a deeper dive into local street foods and craft beers. The tour gives a taste of Heidelberg’s trendy side and is suited for adventurous eaters and drinkers alike.
Bottom Line: A good option for food and craft beer lovers looking to experience Heidelberg’s vibrant street food culture.
5. Heidelberg: Private Day Trip with Castle, Cruise & Beer
For a full-day adventure, the Private Day Trip with Castle, Cruise & Beer offers a comprehensive look at Heidelberg from scenic viewpoints to historic sites. It lasts about 8 hours, making it ideal for travelers with a full schedule. The trip includes a 50-minute cruise on the Neckar River, a ride up to Heidelberg Castle on the cog railway, and guided visits to the Old University and other landmarks.
What makes this trip special is the combination of sightseeing and beer tasting. Your guide introduces you to Heidelberg’s highlights, including local breweries and the city’s culinary scene. The cruise provides relaxing views of the river, while the castle visit offers stunning panoramas. It’s an excellent way to combine sightseeing with a taste of local brews in a relaxed setting.
Reviews are highly positive, emphasizing the balanced mix of history, scenic beauty, and beer tasting. It’s best suited for travelers who want a deeper understanding of Heidelberg’s culture and history without sacrificing the fun of sampling local drinks.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history and scenery enthusiasts who want a full day of exploration combined with beer experiences.
How to Choose the Right Heidelberg Drinking Tour
When selecting your perfect Heidelberg tour, consider your budget, interests, and group size. If you want a budget-friendly evening with many new friends, the pub crawl is ideal. For a more in-depth beer experience, the small-group beer tour offers guided tastings and stories. If you’re celebrating or traveling with friends, the private pub crawl guarantees privacy and customization.
For those interested in Heidelberg’s food and craft beer scene, the street food tour offers a tasty exploration, while the full-day private trip combines sightseeing, history, and local brews.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak seasons, and consider your walking limits—these tours vary from relaxed strolls to more active explorations.
In summary, Heidelberg offers a rich variety of drinking tours suited to different preferences—from social pub crawls to guided beer tastings and private parties. Whether you’re on a budget or celebrating a special occasion, these options bring Heidelberg’s vibrant drinking culture to life. For a taste of history combined with local drinks, a little planning now will ensure a memorable experience in this charming university town.