Hungry Mary’s Famous Beer and Chocolate Tour in Brussels

If you’re eyeing a fun, flavorful way to experience Brussels, this Beer and Chocolate Tour is a popular pick. With a perfect 5.0 rating from nearly 2,000 reviews, it’s clear that many travelers find this experience memorable—and for good reason. It combines indulgence with culture, taking you through some of the city’s top spots for chocolates and beers, all while sharing stories that make each tasting even more enjoyable.

What we really love about this tour is how it balances delicious treats with fascinating city highlights. You get the chance to visit renowned chocolatiers, sample over a dozen chocolates, and then move on to savor six different traditional Belgian beers in atmospheric bars and historic guild houses. The guide’s knowledge and enthusiasm shine through, making the experience both educational and entertaining.

A possible consideration is the length of the tour—it runs about 4 to 5 hours, which can be quite a bit of walking and sampling for some. Also, since the tour involves alcohol, it might not be suitable for younger travelers or those who prefer to abstain from drinking. Still, it’s well-suited for adults who want a lively, tasty introduction to Brussels’ culinary scene.

This tour is perfect if you’re after an engaging, well-organized way to explore Brussels’ famous chocolate and beer culture. It’s especially ideal for food lovers, first-timers, or anyone who appreciates a good story along with their snacks.

Key Points

• Stunning city landmarks like Grand Place, Manneken Pis, and Royal Galleries are part of the experience.
• Tastings include at least 12 chocolates and 6 beers, paired with cheese, meats, and fries for a true Belgian feast.
• The guide’s knowledge and humor make the tour stand out, ensuring it’s both fun and informative.
• Convenient locations and a manageable group size (up to 22 people) keep things intimate and easy to follow.
• Includes discounts at chocolate and beer shops, adding extra value for shopping enthusiasts.
• Weather-wise, it’s wise to bring an umbrella, as Belgian weather can be unpredictable.

A Detailed Look at the Brussels Beer and Chocolate Tour

Traveling through Brussels, it’s easy to be overwhelmed by all the options for chocolate and beer. That’s where this tour shines—by offering a curated route that combines tastings, sights, and stories, all in one manageable package. The tour kicks off at Fontaine Charles Buls, a centrally-located spot near public transportation, making it easy to find even if you’re arriving from elsewhere in the city.

Starting Point: Hungry Mary and the City’s Heartbeat

The adventure begins at 1 PM at Fontaine Charles Buls, a lively spot by the statue of the man with a dog. The guide greets you with friendly energy, setting the tone for a relaxed yet engaging walk. During this initial segment, you’ll get oriented and hear about what makes Brussels’ culinary scene special.

Exploring the Chocolate Scene: Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert

Next, you’ll visit the “Chanel of Chocolate”—Les Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert. This beautifully preserved arcade is home to some of Brussels’ most exclusive chocolatiers. Here, you can expect to sample a minimum of 12 different chocolates from top-tier shops. The guide explains the craftsmanship behind Belgian chocolates, which adds depth to the tasting experience.

Visitors consistently praise this part, with one reviewer mentioning, “the chocolate choices were so great,” and another saying, “Daphne and Isabel’s tour was fantastic—they explained all the ingredients and craftsmanship.” It’s a chance to taste everything from smooth pralines to rich truffles, and often, guides will point out tips for picking the best chocolates in local stores after the tour.

Meeting Brussels’ Icon: Manneken Pis

From sweet to iconic, the tour makes a quick stop at Manneken Pis, the tiny but beloved statue. It’s a fun, quick photo op, and the guide shares stories about its significance, making the stop more than just a selfie opportunity. Expect to spend about 15 minutes here, soaking in the playful spirit of the city.

The Grand Place: Heart of Brussels

No visit to Brussels is complete without a stop at the Grand Place—a UNESCO World Heritage site. The tour takes you around the square, sharing tales about its history and architecture. Then, it’s back into the chocolate shops for another visit, making sure you get your fill of the city’s most famous square.

As one reviewer noted, “The Grand Place and the chocolate stops were incredible,” emphasizing how these iconic sights are woven seamlessly into the tasting journey. This stop also allows for some free time for photos and soaking up the atmosphere.

The Beer Part Begins: Royal Theatre Toone and Historic Taverns

After indulging your sweet tooth, the tour shifts focus to Belgian beers. The guide takes you to the Royal Theatre Toone, an old puppet theater, where the first round of beer tastings kicks off. Expect to sample at least six traditional Belgian brews—from light blondes to darker, more complex ales.

The beer tastings are paired with cheese, cured meats, and fries, creating a true Belgian snack platter. Reviewers rave about the selection—one mentions, “the beers were excellent, and the pairing with cheese made it even better.” Guides are knowledgeable about the different styles and brewing traditions, adding an educational touch.

Continuing the Beer Journey: Hidden Bars and Old Guild Houses

The tour then takes you back to Grand Place for a second round of tastings, this time in an 18th-century guild house. Here, you’ll really get a sense of Brussels’ brewing heritage and enjoy a lively atmosphere. The guide ensures everyone stays on track, pacing the drinks so you can enjoy without feeling rushed.

Finally, the tour concludes at Place De La Bourse, in the oldest bar in Brussels. Their cozy, tucked-away location offers the perfect setting to reflect on the day’s experiences with a final beer. One reviewer loved ending at this historic spot, calling it “a great way to wrap up the tour.”

What’s Included & Not

The tour covers all the tastings, including chocolates, beers, plus cheese, meats, and fries. You also get a friendly guide, discounts at local shops, and bottled water. The only thing not included is hotel pickup, so you’ll need to meet at the designated spot.

How Long Does It Take?

Clocking in at about 4 to 5 hours, it’s a substantial but relaxed experience. The group size is capped at 22, which keeps things intimate enough for personal interaction and easy navigation through the city streets.

Cost & Value

At around $114 per person, the tour offers excellent value when you consider the number of tastings, expert guidance, and access to top chocolatiers and bars. Many reviews highlight how the experience feels like a good deal for what you get—something that combines food, culture, and fun in one package.

What Travelers Say

The reviews overwhelmingly praise the guides—”Martin and Quentin,” “Nina,” “Daphne,” and others—are repeatedly called out for their humor, knowledge, and helpfulness. Multiple reviews mention how the guides made the experience memorable, blending stories with tastings effortlessly.

One reviewer said, “Martin was an exceptionally amusing and informational guide,” while another called Nina “an amazing guide with great energy.” People also love the flexibility; if you’re not a beer drinker, guides are attentive and help accommodate your preferences.

The chocolate and beer selections are consistently described as “delicious,” with many reviewers mentioning that the pairing of treats and drinks was spot-on. Ending the tour on a rooftop with a view or in a historic bar seems to be the cherry on top for many.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who enjoys food and drink with a side of local culture, this tour hits the mark. It’s a fantastic choice for first-timers wanting an overview of Brussels’ highlights, or for seasoned travelers looking to deepen their appreciation of Belgian chocolates and beers. It works well if you’re comfortable with walking and sampling alcohol, but not ideal if you’re traveling with kids or prefer non-alcoholic experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children or minors?
The minimum drinking age is 16, so older teens can join, but it’s not really geared toward children. If you’re traveling with underage kids, they might enjoy the sightseeing and chocolate stops, but the beer tastings won’t be suitable.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 4 to 5 hours, which includes walking, tastings, and time at each stop. It’s a fairly relaxed pace, but be prepared for some standing and walking throughout.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, the tour begins at the Charles Buls Fountain in central Brussels. You’ll need to make your way there on your own.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Reviewers repeatedly mention guides like Martin, Nina, Daphne, and others for their energy, storytelling, and helpful tips. They enhance the experience with interesting tidbits about Brussels’ history, chocolate, and beer.

What’s the price for this experience?
It’s approximately $114.12 per person, which many feel is a good deal considering the number of tastings, stories, and exclusive visits included.

Is the tour accessible in languages other than English?
While most tours are in English, other languages may be available on demand, so it’s worth asking if you need something specific.

Final Thoughts

This Hungry Mary Beer and Chocolate Tour in Brussels offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of the city’s most famous indulgences. It’s a great way to combine sightseeing with a culinary adventure, all led by guides who truly know their stuff. The combination of quality tastings, engaging stories, and beautiful city sights makes it a strong choice for anyone eager to experience Brussels in a tasty, lively way.

However, keep in mind the length and alcohol component—if you’re not into drinking or prefer a more leisurely exploration, this might not be your best bet. But for those who love good storytelling, high-quality chocolates, and Belgian brews, this tour will likely be a highlight of your trip.

Overall, it’s a fun, flavorful, and educational experience—perfect for foodies, first-timers, or anyone wanting a memorable introduction to Brussels’ culinary soul.