Amsterdam is famous for more than just its canals and tulips—it’s also a haven for craft beer lovers. The city’s vibrant brewing scene offers everything from innovative small-batch breweries to historic brewpubs. For travelers eager to explore this world, the best way to do so is through a dedicated brewery tour. We’ve picked out three standout options, each with its own style and appeal, to help you find your perfect beer adventure. Whether you want a lively bus ride visiting multiple breweries or an intimate tasting at a local brewpub, there’s something here for everyone.
One of our favorites is the Amsterdam Craft Beer Brewery Tour by Bus with Tastings. It’s ideal for those who want a relaxed, social experience with the chance to sample a variety of beers while learning about Amsterdam’s lively craft scene. For a more guided, informative experience, the Amsterdam: Guided Craft Beer Brewery Bus Tour with Tastings offers expert insights and exclusive visits. If you prefer a quick, hands-on look at a single brewery, the Breugem Meeting Point: Brewery tour and beer tasting is perfect for a short, flavorful visit. All three tours showcase Amsterdam’s authentic beer culture, each with unique highlights.
Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each tour, helping you decide which fits your style and expectations.
1. Amsterdam Craft Beer Brewery Tour by Bus with Tastings
This 3-hour guided bus tour is a fantastic way to experience Amsterdam’s craft beer scene without the hassle of planning. The tour includes visits to three different craft breweries—with some surprises along the way. The itinerary starts at Overhoeksplein, a central meeting point, and takes you to breweries like Oedipus Craft Space and others that will be revealed on the day. The flexible stops allow you to taste multiple beers and get a real insider’s perspective from your guide, who shares insights into the local brewery culture.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of private transportation and small group intimacy—limited to 25 beer lovers—making it both social and personal. Visitors consistently praise the knowledgeable and friendly guide, as well as the chance to try beers that might not be available elsewhere. The tasting sessions are well-paced, with enough time to chat, learn, and sample.
Value for money is excellent at $75.47 per person, including transport, guide, and tastings. If you like a relaxed, social setting with a good mix of breweries and beers, this tour offers a balance of fun and education. It’s perfect for first-time visitors eager to dip their toes into Amsterdam’s craft scene or seasoned beer enthusiasts wanting to explore local flavors.
Bottom line: This tour makes it easy to experience Amsterdam’s craft breweries comfortably and enjoyably, with the bonus of a lively group atmosphere.
2. Amsterdam: Guided Craft Beer Brewery Bus Tour with Tastings
At number two is the Guided Craft Beer Brewery Bus Tour, which emphasizes expert guidance and exclusive brewery visits. Starting at Overhoeksplein, this tour takes you on a 3-hour ride through North Holland, with visits to three local breweries. The tour includes beer tastings at each location, giving you the chance to compare styles and flavors directly. The highlight is the special visit to one brewery where you get an in-depth look at the brewing process—something craft beer fans will appreciate.
Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll learn about Amsterdam’s brewing history, the ingredients, and the unique styles of each brewery. What sets this apart is the exclusivity of the brewery visit, often including behind-the-scenes insights you won’t find on other tours. The itinerary features multiple bus stops with brief breaks, making it a relaxed yet informative experience.
Priced at $68 per person, the tour offers good value, especially given the exclusive brewery visit and guided commentary. The reviews highlight the well-chosen breweries, the friendly guide, and the fun atmosphere. It’s ideal for those who want to combine a sightseeing bus ride with deep dives into craft beer.
Bottom line: If you’re interested in a more personalized experience with expert insights and a focus on local breweries, this tour delivers. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy learning about beer as much as tasting it.
3. Breugem Meeting Point: Brewery tour and beer tasting
For a shorter and more budget-friendly option, the Breugem Brewery Tour offers a quick, focused visit to one of Amsterdam’s award-winning breweries. At just $24 per person, this 1-hour tour is perfect if you’re short on time or want a taste of local brewing without a big commitment. It starts at the brewery’s own brewpub, where you’ll get a guided tour lasting about 30 minutes, followed by a beer tasting for another 30 minutes.
Breugem is known for its award-winning craft beers, and the tour offers a great introduction to their brewing process and philosophy. The guide shares insights into their brewing techniques and history, making it more than just a tasting. Visitors particularly appreciate the personalized attention and the chance to try fresh, locally brewed beers in a cozy setting.
Because it’s a shorter visit, it’s best suited for beer enthusiasts with limited time or those who want a more intimate experience. The main drawback is the limited scope—you won’t get to visit multiple breweries or sample a wide variety—but it’s a good starting point for beer-curious travelers.
Bottom line: This tour offers value and quality for a quick, in-depth look at a local brewery. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a taste of Amsterdam’s craft scene without a lengthy commitment.
How to Choose the Right Brewery Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, time available, and how much you want to learn. The bus tours (amsterdam craft beer brewery tour by bus) and the guided bus tour (guided brewery tour) are perfect if you want variety, commentary, and a social atmosphere, especially if you’re new to Amsterdam or craft beer. The shorter Breugem tour (brewery tasting) is better suited for those on a tight schedule or budget.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure your spot. Keep in mind that some tours include exclusive brewery visits or tastings that can enrich your understanding of Amsterdam’s beer culture.
Final Thoughts
Whether you prefer a relaxed bus adventure, an expert-led tour, or a quick brewery visit, Amsterdam offers plenty of options to indulge your beer curiosity. For those seeking a comprehensive experience, the craft beer bus tours provide a great mix of sightseeing, tasting, and learning. If your main goal is to sample local brews in a cozy setting, the Breugem tour hits the mark.
Each tour has its strengths—so think about what kind of experience you want. Book early to ensure a spot, and get ready to discover Amsterdam’s lively and delicious craft beer scene firsthand. Cheers to your next great beer adventure!
