Antwerp Pub Crawl

Exploring Antwerp through its pubs: a detailed look at the Antwerp Pub Crawl

If you’re thinking about adding a taste of Antwerp’s lively drinking culture to your trip, the Antwerp Pub Crawl might just be worth considering. Based on reviews and tour details, this experience offers a relaxed way to explore the city’s historic pubs while sampling some of its best local drinks. It’s particularly appealing if you enjoy learning about beer, soaking in local vibes, and having a guide who really knows their stuff.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the focus on Belgian beer and local drinks means you’ll get a taste of what Antwerp’s bar scene has to offer, from hoppy brews to fruity or mildly sweet options. And second, the knowledgeable guide—noted for their charisma and depth of beer expertise—really elevates the experience. On the flip side, some might find the 2-hour duration a bit quick to really soak everything in, especially if you’re a slow sipper or want more time at each stop.

This tour feels best suited for travelers who love beer, enjoy discovering local spots with a guide, and are okay with a relatively short, focused experience. It might not be ideal for those who prefer a more extensive pub experience or plan to stay at a single venue longer. But if you’re looking for a lively, informative, and casual way to get to know Antwerp’s pub scene, this could hit the spot.

Key Points

• Expert Guide: The guide, Flip, is praised for his knowledge, charisma, and local insights, making the experience engaging and educational.
• Varied Pubs: The stops include a mix of historic, artistic, and lively venues, offering a well-rounded taste of Antwerp’s bar culture.
• Flexible Experience: The tour is private, so it can be customized, and the starting point is central — near the Grote Markt.
• Affordable Price: At around $68.78 per person, the cost covers visits to multiple pubs, a guided experience, and all taxes, making it quite good value.
• Duration & Size: Lasting approximately 2 hours, the tour is short enough to fit into a busy day but packed with enough highlights.
• Group & Payment: Group discounts are available, and the experience is mobile-ticket friendly, adding convenience.

A Detailed Look at the Antwerp Pub Crawl

What to Expect from the Tour Itinerary

The Antwerp Pub Crawl is designed as a relaxed stroll through the city’s old town, stopping at a selection of unique venues that embody different aspects of Antwerp’s social and cultural life. Starting at the famous Grote Markt with De Engel, you’ll get a feel for the historic heart of the city. This spot is a natural choice to kick off because it’s so iconic, and the fact that it’s a free stop means you can appreciate the atmosphere without feeling pressured.

Next, the tour moves to Hoogstraat, at the cozy Soeke venue, which has an artistic past and present. If you’re lucky with timing, you might catch some live music, especially on Sundays, adding an extra layer of local flavor. This venue is known for its intimate vibe, making it a good spot to chat with fellow travelers or locals.

The third stop is Café Cabron, a lively pub with live performances during the week and DJ sets during weekends. Based on reviews, this place seems to be a favorite for its energetic atmosphere and good drinks. It’s a place where you might find yourself tapping your feet to the beats while sampling a local brew or two.

Moving on, the tour visits Oude Koornmarkt, a place to unwind after a busy day, with a good selection of drinks and a reputation for becoming a party hub in the evening. It’s the kind of spot where you can relax with friends or fellow pub crawlers, soaking in the lively scene.

Then, the group heads to Djinngel Djangel on Bordeauxstraat, close to the Mas Museum. This pub is especially loved for live performances, making it a highlight for those who enjoy music with their beer.

The penultimate stop is The Highlander on Stadswaag, which offers an Anglo-Saxon pub experience. If you’re into beer and whisky, this is a real treat, with staff who are knowledgeable and passionate about their drinks.

Finally, the tour wraps up at Bier Central near Antwerp’s Central Station. This spot is perfect if you want to test your taste buds with a variety of Belgian beers, especially if you’re heading somewhere afterwards or need a convenient finish point.

What Makes Each Stop Special?

Each pub has its own personality. For example, De Engel on Grote Markt is a classic starting point, giving you that quintessential Antwerp vibe. The artistic ambience at Soeke Hoogstraat offers a quiet, culturally rich atmosphere, while Café Cabron is perfect if you’re after a lively, music-filled environment.

Oude Koornmarkt provides a social, relaxed setting ideal for unwinding, and Djinngel Djangel offers one of the best live performance atmospheres. The Highlander stands out for its focus on beer and whisky connoisseurs, and Bier Central provides a perfect ending with a wide selection of Belgian beers, conveniently located near the station.

What Do the Reviews Say?

The overwhelmingly positive reviews highlight the knowledge and charisma of guide Flip. One reviewer exclaimed that Flip “forgot more about beer than we’ll ever know,” emphasizing his expertise and ability to keep the group engaged. Another mentioned how Flip’s combination of beer and history made the tour informative and fun.

Multiple reviews point out that the tour was very adaptable, especially when only a small group was involved. One traveler was delighted to be the only two participants, which allowed for a more personalized experience. A common theme is that Flip’s local knowledge and enthusiasm make the tour memorable.

Practical Details and Value

The $68.78 price might seem modest, but it’s quite reasonable considering the number of stops, the guided experience, and the inclusion of all fees and taxes. Remember, at each pub, the group (or individual) treats the guide to a drink, so the cost encompasses multiple tastings across different venues—each offering different styles like sour, fruity, or hoppy beers.

The tour lasts about 2 hours, which is a good pace—long enough to enjoy each spot without feeling rushed. The private format means your group gets a tailored experience, with the possibility for customization based on your preferences.

What You Should Keep in Mind

While this isn’t a long night out, it’s enough for a casual, relaxed exploration. If you’re looking for a deep dive into Antwerp’s pub scene, this is more of a tasting and sightseeing experience than a marathon. It’s also worth noting that bachelor parties are not suited to this experience, as per the policy.

Since the tour starts at 3:00 pm, it’s well-positioned for an afternoon outing — perfect if you want to combine it with sightseeing or an early dinner afterward.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This pub crawl is ideal for beer lovers keen to learn from an expert guide, culture seekers interested in historic venues, and anyone wanting a light, social way to explore Antwerp’s nightlife. It’s particularly good if you prefer small, private groups that can be customized, making it a flexible choice for couples, friends, or small groups.

Travelers who value local insights and enjoy a casual pace will find this tour rewarding. If your main goal is a lively night out or extensive pub-hopping, you might prefer longer or more energetic pub tours. But for a relaxed, informative, and well-curated experience, this one hits the mark.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
This experience is geared towards adults, especially since it involves sampling drinks at each pub. It’s not recommended for children or family groups.

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes approximately 2 hours, giving enough time to visit multiple venues without feeling rushed.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, on average, this tour is booked about 38 days ahead, so it’s best to reserve early to secure your spot.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, making it flexible if your plans change.

What’s included in the price?
All fees and taxes are included. Remember, at each pub, the group or individual treats the guide to a drink, so the cost covers multiple tastings and the guide’s expertise.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at Grote Markt 1 and generally ends at Grote Markt, based on your preferences and schedule.

Is transportation included?
Pickup is offered, but the tour mainly involves walking between stops in the old town area. The venues are centrally located.

Can I bring my service animal?
Yes, service animals are allowed on this tour.

Final thoughts

The Antwerp Pub Crawl offers a compelling mix of local history, lively venues, and expert guidance, all within a compact two-hour window. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a curated, social experience that emphasizes Belgian beers and the city’s bar scene. The guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge shine through, making each stop more than just a drink—it’s a story, a taste, and a shared moment.

If you’re into discovering what makes Antwerp’s beer culture special, enjoy lively atmospheres, and prefer a private, customizable experience, this tour is a solid pick. It’s also a good way to get a quick, authentic sense of the city’s nightlife without spending an entire evening out.

Just keep in mind that it’s not a marathon of pub hopping, and it’s definitely adult-focused. But if you want a relaxed, friendly, and insightful introduction to Antwerp’s pubs, this tour will serve you well — all at a fair price for what’s included.