Brussels: Hungry Mary’s Famous Beer and Chocolate Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Brussels and want to get a real taste of the city’s famous beer and chocolate scene, this tour could be just what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally taken it, based on the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions, it seems to offer a fantastic blend of culture, indulgence, and local insight.

What really draws us to this experience are two things: the chance to sample up to 10 boutique chocolates crafted by local artisans and 6 different beers from both traditional and craft breweries. Plus, it’s a walking tour that takes you through the heart of Brussels, offering a window into the city’s highlights along the way.

One thing to keep in mind, though, is that this is a fairly condensed experience—lasting about 4.5 hours—which means it’s quite full on. If you’re not a big fan of walking or if you’re looking for a very relaxed pace, this might feel a bit brisk.

This tour is perfect for travelers who love food, enjoy learning about local customs, and want to see some of Brussels’ key sights while tasting the best of what the city has to offer. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate good storytelling and want to understand the cultural significance behind the chocolates and beers they’re sampling.

Key Points

• Authentic Tastings: Sample high-quality chocolates from boutique makers and a selection of Belgian beers, not just the commercial brands.
• Cultural Insights: Learn about the manufacturing process of both chocolate and beer, gaining a deeper appreciation of their importance in Belgian culture.
• City Highlights: Enjoy a scenic walk through Brussels’ city center, visiting iconic spots like the Grand Place, Manneken Pis, and the Royal Galleries.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Marie, Clemens, and Jeremy are often praised for their knowledge, humor, and friendly approach.
• Value for Money: At $112, the tour offers a comprehensive experience with tastings, cultural stories, and discounts in local shops.
• Flexible and Convenient: The tour includes bottled water, extra nibbles, and the option to switch to cider if beer isn’t your thing. It ends at the starting point, making it easy to continue exploring afterward.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off at the Charles Buls Fountain, a lovely city spot that signals the start of your exploration. From there, you’ll venture into some of Brussels’ most notable streets and landmarks, getting an overview of the city’s charming architecture and lively atmosphere. The guides are known to highlight the city’s highlights in a way that’s both engaging and informative, so you’ll come away with a richer understanding of Brussels’ character.

Chocolate Tastings at Boutique Makers

A standout feature of this tour is the chance to visit up to 10 boutique chocolate shops. Unlike big-name brands, these artisans craft chocolates bean-to-bar, focusing on quality and unique flavors. Reviewers rave about the quality and variety of the chocolates, with some saying it’s the best part of the tour. One reviewer mentioned that the chocolates were very tasty, and the experience exceeded expectations, describing the visits as a chance to learn about local craftsmen.

The tour emphasizes avoiding commercial brands, allowing you to taste more authentic, often handcrafted chocolates. You might find some shops offer detailed insights into the making process, from bean to bar—adding an educational element to the indulgence.

Beer Tasting at Local Bars

After satisfying your sweet tooth, the tour moves into a beer tasting session featuring six beers across different venues. These are small, craft or traditional Belgian breweries, giving you a taste of the diverse beer styles Belgium is famous for. In the reviews, guides like Marie and Clemens are praised for their storytelling about the origins of each beer and the venues themselves.

The tasting is set in cozy bars, perfect for sitting down and chatting about what you’re drinking. One reviewer shared that the beer experience was fantastic, with the guides sharing stories that brought each beer to life. Plus, there are extra nibbles like cheese, cured meats, fries, and regional snacks to help balance the alcohol and keep your energy up.

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The Guides and Their Impact

Many reviews highlight the guides’ personalities and knowledge. Marie, Clemens, Jeremy—these guides are described as funny, friendly, and full of interesting insights. They’re often credited with making the tour lively and memorable through storytelling and humor.

One reviewer said, “Martin was highly entertaining and his stories kept us laughing for weeks,” which speaks to how guides can elevate the experience from a simple tasting to something more personal and fun.

What Does the Price Cover?

At $112 per person, the tour offers a balanced mix of tastings, cultural learning, and city sightseeing. It includes all chocolate and beer tastings, cheese and cured meats, nibbles and fries, bottled water, and discounts at local shops—adding both value and convenience.

Some might wonder if it’s worth the cost, but considering the quality of the tastings, the knowledgeable guides, and the cultural insights, many see it as a good deal. Several reviews mention it’s an excellent value for what you get—a fun, filling, and educational experience.

Practical Details

• The tour lasts approximately 4.5 hours, so it’s a solid half-day activity.
• It starts at the Charles Buls Fountain, with the meeting point easy to find.
• It ends back at the starting point, so you’re free to explore more or grab a meal afterward.
• It’s in English, and the guides are known to be accommodating if you have allergies or specific dietary needs.
• Keep comfortable shoes and an umbrella handy—Belgium weather can be unpredictable.

Possible Downsides

The main consideration is that the tour involves quite a bit of walking and standing, which might not suit everyone, especially if mobility is an issue. Also, the tastings can be quite rich, so pace yourself if you’re sensitive to sugar or alcohol.

It’s also not suitable for vegans, as many tastings contain dairy, and it’s not accessible for wheelchair users, so plan accordingly.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for food lovers, especially those interested in Belgian chocolates and beers. It’s good for couples, friends, or solo travelers who enjoy social experiences and storytelling. If you’re looking for a relaxed way to see some of Brussels’ highlights while sampling the city’s culinary gems, this tour hits the mark.

It’s also great if you’re curious about how local artisans craft their products—many reviewers appreciated learning about the bean-to-bar process and the origins of Belgian beer styles.

Final Thoughts

The Hungry Mary Beer and Chocolate Tour offers a well-rounded taste of Brussels’ most iconic treats, paired with insights into local culture and history. Its friendly guides, high-quality tastings, and scenic walk make it a compelling option for anyone wanting to indulge in a fun and educational afternoon.

While it requires a bit of walking and might be intense for those who prefer a leisurely pace, most travelers seem to find it worth every penny. If you love chocolate, beer, and stories, this tour will likely be one of your trip’s highlights.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, children aged 16 and over are allowed. Keep in mind, the tastings include alcohol (beer), so it’s more suited for older teens.

Does the tour include transportation?
No, it’s a walking tour starting at the Charles Buls Fountain and ending back at the same spot. Be prepared for some walking in the city.

Can I switch from beer to cider or other drinks?
Yes, at the last two stops, guides are accommodating if you prefer cider or other non-alcoholic options.

Are the tastings suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the tour is suitable for vegetarians, but be sure to inform the guides at the start if you have specific dietary restrictions.

What’s included in the ticket price?
Your fee covers all chocolate and beer tastings, cheese, cured meats, nibbles, fries, bottled water, and discounts at local shops.

Is there any free cancellation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, allowing flexibility if your plans change.

If you’re visiting Brussels and want to combine sightseeing with an authentic taste of Belgian chocolates and beers, this tour offers an engaging, fun way to do just that. Just remember to pace yourself, bring comfortable shoes, and enjoy every delicious moment.

You can check availability for your dates here: