Berlin’s first original craft beer tour & experience

Exploring Berlin’s Craft Beer Scene: An Honest Look at the Original Craft Beer Tour

If you’re a beer lover heading to Berlin, chances are you’re eager to taste more than just the usual pilsners. The Berlin’s first original craft beer tour & experience promises a dive into the city’s burgeoning craft beer world, guided by passionate locals. Based on glowing reviews and detailed info, this tour offers a fun, educational way to get to know Berlin’s unique brewing culture.

What we really appreciate about this experience is its small-group format, which means plenty of personal attention and insider tips. Plus, the variety of beer tastings—up to 9 different local brews—can turn an ordinary night into a memorable adventure. One thing to keep in mind, however, is the tour’s walking aspect, which might be tiring for some, especially if you’re not used to exploring on foot.

This tour feels best suited for those who enjoy craft beer, are curious about its history, and want a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re a beer novice or a seasoned connoisseur, you’ll likely find something to love here.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Small-group size (up to 12 people) allows for engaging conversations and tailored insights.
• Expert Guidance: Guides are knowledgeable, often with home-brewing experience and certification, making the learning engaging and credible.
• Excellent Value: Includes multiple tastings, a hot snack, and a pizza pairing, making the $150 price a good deal for a comprehensive experience.
• Rich in Local Culture: Explores Friedrichshain—a vibrant, alternative neighborhood—adding context to your beer journey.
• Flexible Options: Vegan, vegetarian, and alcohol-free options are available with 48-hour notice, accommodating various dietary needs.
• Highly Praised: Consistently rated 5 stars with many reviews emphasizing the guide’s expertise and the enjoyable atmosphere.

An In-Depth Look at the Berlin Craft Beer Tour

Starting Point: Friedrichshain and Salami Social Club

Your adventure begins at the Salami Social Club in Friedrichshain, an area known for its alternative vibe and creative scene. Meeting a small group of up to 12, you’ll feel immediately at ease, which sets the tone for the entire tour. The guide, often praised for being both personable and knowledgeable, will lead you around this historic East Berlin neighborhood.

This part of Berlin is perfect for exploring on foot, with streets full of character and local flavor. The tour lasts about 3.5 hours, giving enough time to soak in the sights without feeling rushed. Expect to walk a bit, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Exploring the Local Craft Beer Scene

The core of this experience is visiting three hand-picked venues—a local brewery and craft beer bars—where you’ll sample 6-9 craft beers depending on what’s available. The guide’s selections are designed to showcase Berlin’s evolving craft beer scene, which is a relatively new but rapidly growing niche.

Reviewers consistently mention the quality of the beers—many say the choices are exceptional and eye-opening. One reviewer notes, “Cliff was extremely knowledgeable on the subject of beer and Berlin culture, and had answers for any questions that came up.” This kind of expert insight adds a lot of value, especially if you’re eager to learn about the ingredients, brewing process, or the local scene.

The Tasting Experience

The tastings are not just about drinking—they’re about understanding. You’ll learn about the ingredients, brewing tricks, and how Berlin’s craft beer scene developed. Some reviewers noted that their guide was “off the charts knowledgeable,” making the experience both fun and educational.

The beers are served in larger sizes if fewer tastings are chosen, which means you’ll get to enjoy a good amount of each brew. That’s a big plus for beer enthusiasts, as it feels more like a tasting session than just a quick sip.

Food and Snacks: The Perfect Pairing

At the start of the tour, you’ll enjoy a beer and pizza pairing, which sets a relaxed, flavorful tone. Many reviews highlight how well the pizza complements the beers and adds a social, communal vibe to the experience. Later, you’ll also enjoy a hot snack, so you’re not just drinking on an empty stomach.

Vegan, vegetarian, and alcohol-free options are available with 48-hour notice, making this accessible even for dietary restrictions. The inclusion of food helps balance the alcohol and keeps the mood light and convivial.

Visiting Unique Bars and Pubs

The tour visits a few carefully selected bars—each with its own character and vibe. These aren’t tourist traps but genuine local spots, which many reviewers found to be a highlight. The guide’s insider tips help you discover hidden gems and appreciate Berlin’s craft beer culture in authentic settings.

The last stop is just a short walk from Ostkreuz train station, so you’ll have easy access to public transportation afterward to continue exploring Berlin or head back to your accommodation.

What Makes This Tour Special?

Many reviews point out how knowledgeable guides make a huge difference. One reviewer mentions, “Cliff was off the charts knowledgeable and not just about beer,” highlighting how personal and engaging the guide can be.

The small-group format fosters a friendly, intimate atmosphere, perfect for making new friends or simply enjoying the experience without feeling rushed or lost in a crowd. It also means your guide can tailor the experience somewhat based on your interests.

The comprehensive approach—covering beer history, brewing techniques, and culture—means you leave not just with a stomach full of good beer but with a better understanding of what you’re drinking.

Pricing and Value

At $150.57 per person, it might seem a touch steep compared to casual bar visits, but when you think about the three to four hours of entertainment, the guided insights, multiple tastings, and included food, it’s quite reasonable. Many reviewers feel they received good value, especially given the personalized service and quality of the beers.

Considerations and Possible Downsides

The main consideration is the walking component. The tour involves moving around Friedrichshain and visiting several bars, so if you have mobility issues or dislike walking, it might not be ideal. The tour isn’t recommended for those who can’t stand or walk comfortably for more than 20 minutes.

Plus, alcohol consumption is part of the experience, so the tour isn’t suitable for under-16s or those avoiding alcohol. However, vegan, vegetarian, and alcohol-free options are available if you notify 48 hours in advance.

A less positive review mentioned a tour cancellation due to the guide’s illness, which reminds us to check the cancellation policy—free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour For?

This guided craft beer experience is perfect for travelers who enjoy learning about beer and want a relaxed, social evening in Berlin. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate local culture, as the guide offers insights into Berlin’s neighborhoods and brewing scene.

If you’re somebody who enjoys delving into the history and craft behind your beverages, this tour will likely meet your expectations. Plus, the small-group format and personalized service make it a great choice for those looking for an authentic, friendly experience.

However, if you’re not comfortable walking or prefer a more laid-back, less interactive activity, you might want to consider other options. Also, keep in mind that this is an adults-only experience, given the alcohol tastings.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours, giving enough time to enjoy multiple tastings and explore the neighborhood without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Salami Social Club in Friedrichshain and ends a few minutes walk from Ostkreuz train station, making it easy to continue exploring Berlin afterward.

Are food options available for dietary restrictions?
Yes, vegan, vegetarian, and alcohol-free options are available with 48-hour notice.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes a local guide with brewing knowledge, a beer and pizza pairing at the start, and 6-9 craft beer tastings. It does not cover hotel pickup or transportation.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The minimum drinking age in Germany is 16, so it’s suitable for teenagers with adult supervision. The tour is not specifically geared toward children.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.

How many people will be in my group?
A maximum of 12 travelers ensures a personalized, intimate experience.

Is transportation provided?
No, transportation to and from the tour is not included; you’ll need to arrange your own travel to the meeting point.

Final Verdict

If you’re seeking an engaging way to explore Berlin’s craft beer scene, this tour is a solid choice. It’s well-loved for its knowledgeable guides, authentic local vibe, and the chance to taste a variety of beers you might not find elsewhere. For those who enjoy small-group experiences and are curious about beer’s role in Berlin culture, this tour ticks all the boxes.

While not the best option if you dislike walking or are traveling with those with mobility issues, it offers great value for a fun, social, and educational evening. Cheers to discovering Berlin through its craft brews!