Amsterdam: Guided Craft Beer Tasting with cheese and snacks

If you’re looking for a relaxed, engaging way to get a taste of Amsterdam’s thriving craft beer culture, this guided beer tasting might be just the ticket. While I haven’t personally tried it (but trust me, I’ve seen enough to get a good sense of it), I can tell you that it’s a popular choice for visitors wanting to combine some local flavor with a fun social activity. It’s organized by Brew Bus Amsterdam B.V., and from the reviews and details, it seems to hit a lot of the right notes — especially for those curious about small breweries and unique brews.

What I love about this experience is how it balances informative guidance with a laid-back vibe. You get to sample five different beers, learn about the breweries behind them, and snack on Dutch cheese, sausage, and nuts. Plus, it’s conveniently located inside ClinkNOORD, just behind Amsterdam Central Station, making it easy to find and accessible even if you’re not familiar with the city. The downside? It’s only an hour long, which might leave those craving a deeper dive wanting more. Still, it’s a solid choice for a quick, social, and tasty introduction to Amsterdam’s craft brewing scene.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy beer, are curious about local brews, or just want a fun way to meet new people in a lively setting. Keep in mind, it’s not suitable for children under 18, so if you’re traveling with younger family members, you might want to look elsewhere. Also, booking is flexible, with a “reserve now, pay later” policy that makes planning easy.

Key Points

• Location & Accessibility: Conveniently based behind Amsterdam Central Station inside ClinkNOORD.
• Experience & Duration: A lively 1-hour tasting with a friendly guide, perfect for a quick break in your sightseeing day.
• Brew Selection: You’ll taste five different craft beers from local breweries, with stories behind each brew.
• Food & Snacks: Enjoy Dutch cheese, sausage, and nuts, which pair nicely with the beers.
• Guides & Atmosphere: Led by an enthusiastic beer guide who makes the tasting both fun and informative.
• Booking & Cancellation: Flexible reservation options, including free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect from the Beer Tasting Experience

Imagine stepping into ClinkNOORD, just behind the bustling heart of Amsterdam, and being greeted by an enthusiastic guide ready to take you on a mini journey through Dutch craft beer. The atmosphere here is lively but welcoming, perfect for those who enjoy a social setting. The guide will share interesting stories about the beers and breweries, adding context that elevates the tasting beyond just drinking.

The tasting itself involves five beer samples, each in its own glass, allowing you to compare flavors, aromas, and styles. Since this is a mystery beer event, you’ll be encouraged to guess what you’re drinking — a fun challenge that keeps everyone engaged. The bites of Dutch cheese, sausage, and nuts aren’t just snacks; they’re chosen to complement the beers, making each sip more satisfying.

What makes this tour stand out is its combination of entertainment and education. The guide’s enthusiasm shines through, and from the review by Esther, we know it’s “a great beer tasting!” The small group size keeps things intimate, so you’re never just a face in the crowd. Plus, the setting inside ClinkNOORD offers a modern, relaxed vibe that’s perfect for unwinding after sightseeing.

The Breakdown of the Itinerary

Since this is a one-hour experience, the schedule is straightforward but packed with flavor. You start inside ClinkNOORD, where the guide will introduce the event and give a quick overview of Amsterdam’s craft beer culture. Then, the tasting begins, with each of the five beers served one after the other.

Throughout the hour, you’ll learn about the different breweries, what makes Dutch craft beers unique, and the brewing process in a way that’s accessible and engaging. The guide will likely share stories that make the beers more memorable, and you’ll have ample opportunity to ask questions or just enjoy the convivial atmosphere.

The snacks are integrated into the tasting experience, providing relief between sips and enhancing flavors. The ending point is back at the same location, so you can decide whether to stay and chat or continue exploring the neighborhood.

The Beers & Snacks

The focus here is on local craft beers from small breweries — a great way to support local producers while discovering new flavors. Since the beers are packaged as tasters, you’ll get a sense of variety without overdoing it. Expect to sample different styles and perhaps find a new favorite.

The snacks — Dutch cheese, sausage, and nuts — aren’t just filler. They’re thoughtfully selected to pair with the beer, highlighting regional flavors and making the tasting more well-rounded. If you’re into cheese or cured meats, you’ll appreciate this added touch.

The Value of the Experience

At roughly an hour, this tour offers a quick but meaningful glimpse into Amsterdam’s craft beer scene. Considering the guide is enthusiastic and knowledgeable, and the included snacks add value, it’s a solid option for beer lovers or anyone wanting a relaxed activity with a local flavor. The fact that you get five beers, plus snacks, makes the price seem reasonable — especially given the central location and the engaging guide.

For those who want something more in-depth, this is just a taste (literally), but it’s perfect for a short break or a first introduction to Dutch craft beers. Plus, the ability to book flexibly and cancel 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience appeals most to adults who enjoy beer, are curious about local brews, or simply want a fun, social activity in the city. It’s especially good if you’re keen to learn more about Dutch craft breweries without committing to a longer tour. If you’re traveling with children under 18, you’ll need to look elsewhere, as this isn’t suitable for minors. Likewise, if you prefer a more intense or extensive tasting, this hour-long session might leave you wanting more.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s designed for adults over 18 as it involves alcohol tasting.

How long does the tour last?
The tasting runs for about 1 hour, making it a quick but satisfying experience.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins inside ClinkNOORD, behind Amsterdam Central Station, and ends back at the same location.

Can I cancel the booking if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there a guide, and what languages are available?
Yes, the tour is led by an enthusiastic guide and is available in Dutch and English.

What’s included in the price?
You get five beer tasters, snacks (Dutch cheese, sausage, nuts), and a friendly guide.

Is the experience suitable for beer novices?
Absolutely — the guide keeps things fun and accessible, and the tasting caters to all levels of familiarity.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, to secure your spot, especially during peak times. The reservation is flexible with the option to pay later.

What if I want a more extensive beer experience?
This tour is ideal for a quick introduction. For more in-depth explorations, consider other options listed on the site.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a relaxed, sociable way to sample Amsterdam’s craft breweries, this guided beer tasting offers a lot of value. The friendly guide, the variety of beers, and the regional snacks make it a well-rounded experience that’s enjoyable without feeling rushed. It’s perfect for a quick afternoon activity or for anyone curious about Dutch brewing traditions.

While it’s not a deep dive into every style or brewery, it’s an honest, fun introduction that suits many travelers looking for an informal, tasty activity. Just remember: it’s an adult experience, and if you’re not a big beer drinker, you might want to look for a different activity. But for beer lovers and curious newcomers alike, this tour provides an easy, engaging way to toast to your Amsterdam adventure.

Happy tasting, and here’s to discovering some excellent local brews!

You can check availability for your dates here: