Zurich may be Switzerland’s financial hub, but its nightlife and drinking scene are anything but dull. Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast or someone looking to experience the city’s pubs with a lively crowd, Zurich offers a variety of tours that go beyond just ordering a drink at a bar. We love the Beer Tasting Tour in Zurich for its in-depth exploration of Zurich’s craft beer scene, especially because it combines tasting with storytelling about brewing traditions. Another favorite is the Zurich: Pub Crawl Nightlife Tour with Shots and Snacks, which is perfect for those wanting to meet new people and enjoy Zurich’s energetic nightlife. These tours provide a deeper appreciation of local drinks and culture, making your visit more memorable.
In this list, you’ll find different styles of drinking experiences: guided beer tastings, pub crawls with free shots, and bar tours that showcase Zurich’s top spots. Some tours are ideal for small groups and craft beer lovers, like Beer Tasting Tour in Zurich, while others, like the Zurich Pub Crawl, are designed for those eager to socialize and explore the city’s lively scene. Whether you’re on a budget or seeking an exclusive experience, this guide will help you choose the best fit.
1. Beer Tasting Tour in Zurich
At number 1, the Beer Tasting Tour in Zurich offers a rich immersion into Zurich’s craft beer world. For around $158, you’ll spend about 3.5 hours walking through districts 4 and 5, visiting 3-4 bars, shops, and microbreweries. Your guide will take you off the usual tourist path to explore hidden brewing spots, often giving insights into the local beer scene that you can’t find elsewhere. The tour includes tasting more than 8 different beers, focusing on unique styles and local brews.
What sets this tour apart is its small-group setting—maximum 10 people—which ensures plenty of personal attention. The reviews highlight Sandra’s knowledge and her engaging storytelling, which makes learning about Zurich’s brewing culture both fun and informative. The tour is perfect for beer lovers who want to deepen their understanding of beer styles and traditions, all while savoring carefully selected brews. Practical and authentic, it offers excellent value for beer aficionados willing to invest a bit more for an in-depth experience.
Bottom Line: If you’re passionate about craft beer and enjoy small-group tours, this Beer Tasting Tour is a top choice for quality, education, and local insight.
2. Zurich: Pub Crawl Nightlife Tour with Shots and Snacks
At number 2, the Zurich: Pub Crawl Nightlife Tour with Shots and Snacks provides a lively introduction to Zurich’s nightlife. For about $37, you’ll spend around 4 hours hopping between three city hotspots, enjoying free shots and snacks along the way. This tour is ideal for travelers who want to meet people and experience the city’s energetic drinking scene firsthand. Your guide will introduce you to local favorites and hidden bars, making it a social and relaxed way to discover Zurich.
The reviews praise the friendly, fun guides and the opportunity to connect with fellow travelers. This tour is perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small groups who prefer a casual, social vibe over a structured tasting. It’s also a good choice if you’re on a budget but still want a memorable night out. The relaxed pace and focus on socializing make it a great way to get a feel for Zurich’s night scene without worrying about where to go.
Bottom Line: If you enjoy meeting new people and prefer a fun, informal night out, this Pub Crawl Nightlife Tour offers a lively, budget-friendly option.
3. Zurich: bar tour
At number 3, the Zurich: bar tour delivers a curated experience of the city’s favorite local bars. For $244, it lasts about 4 hours and takes you to four different venues that Zurich locals love. Your guide will share recommendations on the best Swiss liqueurs and give insight into Zurich’s bar scene. This tour is a great way to discover diverse drinking spots, from trendy lounges to classic pubs, all while learning about Swiss drinking customs.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on the local bar culture and personalized suggestions for further exploration. The single review highlights the guide’s knack for showing diverse venues and sharing local knowledge. It’s suited for travelers who want an authentic, behind-the-scenes look at Zurich’s nightlife and enjoy tasting local spirits. The price is higher, but the quality of venues and personalized insights justify the cost for those seeking a tailored experience.
Bottom Line: For a personalized, local insider experience of Zurich’s bar scene, this bar tour is an excellent way to spend an evening.
4. Zurich Pub Crawl – Dionysos Zurich Pub Crawl
Number 4 on our list is the Dionysos Zurich Pub Crawl, which offers a 3.5-hour tour through Zurich’s vibrant nightlife. The tour includes visits to 3-4 exclusive bars, with one free shot at each, plus VIP entry to a trendy club. It’s perfect for travelers wanting to experience Zurich’s party scene without the hassle of planning where to go.
The tour’s strength lies in its lively atmosphere and the opportunity to meet international travelers. The review mentions the friendly guides and the social vibe, making it ideal for those who enjoy nightlife and clubbing. The VIP entry adds a touch of exclusivity, making it suitable for party lovers looking to maximize their night out.
Bottom Line: If you want a lively, social tour that combines bar hopping and club access, this Dionysos Pub Crawl is a fun, energetic choice.
5. Zurich Beer Tour – tasting tour with a local beer expert
Ranked number 5, the Zurich Beer Tour offers a more personalized experience led by a local beer expert. For $158, the tour lasts 3 hours and includes visiting districts 4 and 5, tasting a minimum of eight different beers, and learning about brewing techniques and Zurich’s beer scene. This walking tour is tailored for those who want an expert’s insights along with a tasting adventure.
Sandro, the guide, is praised for his engaging and informative style. The tour’s focus on learning about beer styles, brewing history, and visiting hidden locations makes it ideal for beer connoisseurs who enjoy a deeper dive. The small group size ensures personalized attention, and the variety of unique beers keeps it interesting.
Bottom Line: For a detailed, educational beer experience with expert guidance, this Beer Tour is a top pick.
6. Pub Crawl Zurich
The last on our list, the Pub Crawl Zurich, is a straightforward, budget-friendly option that lasts about 3 to 4 hours. It covers top bars and hidden hotspots, with free drinks included. It’s designed for small groups and solo travelers eager to explore Zurich’s nightlife while meeting like-minded people.
The guide’s friendly approach is highlighted in reviews, with one mentioning how Sebastian “really makes sure you have a good time.” It’s a flexible tour suitable for travelers who want a casual night out without a fixed itinerary.
Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a relaxed, social evening and don’t mind paying for a lively experience, this Pub Crawl offers great value.
How to Choose Your Perfect Drinking Tour in Zurich
When selecting the right drinking tour, consider your budget, interests, and how much socializing you want to do. For craft beer lovers interested in a structured tasting with detailed insights, the Beer Tasting Tour is ideal. If meeting new people in a lively environment appeals more, the Pub Crawl Nightlife or Dionysos Pub Crawl would suit you perfectly.
For those wanting a more personalized, insider look at Zurich’s bar scene, the bar tour is worth the higher price. Budget travelers may prefer the pub crawl, which combines fun and affordability. Booking early is always wise, especially for popular tours, and consider the time of year—summer evenings are perfect for outdoor bar hopping.
Final Thoughts
Zurich offers a diverse array of drinking tours, whether you’re after a deep dive into craft beers or just want to toast with new friends. The Beer Tasting Tour in Zurich and the Pub Crawl Nightlife Tour stand out as top choices for their combination of fun, education, and social atmosphere. For a more tailored experience, the bar tour provides personalized insights into Zurich’s bar culture.
No matter which you choose, these tours promise a memorable way to experience Zurich’s vibrant drinking scene. To enjoy the best experience, book in advance, especially during peak travel months, and prepare for some enjoyable sips and stories in this Swiss city.
