Vienna: Guided tour of the Ottakringer brewery

If you’re visiting Vienna and love a good brew or are simply curious about how your favorite beers come to life, this guided tour of the Ottakringer brewery might be just what you’re looking for. It offers a chance to peek behind the scenes of Austria’s most historic private brewery, learn about its brewing process, and sample some of its best beers—all in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

What really stands out about this experience is how knowledgeable the guides are and the quality of the beer tasting. It’s a well-organized, accessible way to get a little more insight into Vienna’s local drinking culture without the touristy crowds. That said, it’s worth noting that the tour lasts about an hour and a half, and involves some standing, so it’s not ideal if mobility is a concern.

For those who enjoy learning about local traditions and don’t mind a bit of standing or walking, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s particularly appealing if you’re a beer enthusiast or prefer authentic, small-group experiences that focus on genuine craftsmanship. Keep in mind, participants need to be over 18 and wear closed-toe shoes—so it’s not suitable for children or those with mobility issues.

Key Points

• In-depth look at beer production behind the scenes at Vienna’s oldest private brewery
• Tastings of various Ottakringer beers, including award-winning options
• Insightful guides who share interesting stories and the brewery’s history
• Affordable price point, offering good value at only $23 per person
• Convenient meeting point accessible by public transport
• Duration of about 1.5 hours, perfect for a quick yet enriching experience

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Ottakringer Brewery Tour

When you sign up for this guided tour, you’re signing up for more than just a walk through a brewery. It’s an opportunity to understand how Vienna’s oldest private brewery has kept its traditions alive while adapting to modern tastes. The whole experience spans roughly 1.5 hours, beginning at a central, easily accessible location at the corner of Feßtgasse and Ottakringer Straße.

The Start: Meeting at the Forecourt

You’ll gather at the Ottakringer forecourt, a spot that’s well-served by public transport options like the U3 subway line, and bus routes 2, 44, 46, 9. The guide will check everyone in and provide a brief overview before heading into the brewery. It’s worth arriving a little early to get your bearings and dress comfortably—closed-toe shoes are a must for safety.

Behind the Scenes: The Brewing Process

Once inside, the tour takes you through the entire brewing process, from the brewhouse to bottling. We loved the way guides explained each step clearly, making complex processes understandable without dumbing down the experience. It’s especially great for beer lovers curious about what makes Ottakringer stand out, or anyone interested in local production methods.

The History and Heritage

A significant part of the tour revolves around the history of Ottakringer, which has been crafting beer in Vienna for generations. Our guides shared stories about its place in local culture, and you’ll get interesting tidbits about how the brewery has evolved over the decades. One reviewer called the guide “very good, clear, and informative,” highlighting how engaging and easy to follow the explanations were.

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Beer Tasting: The Highlight

Of course, the best part of the tour is the sampling session. This isn’t just a quick sip; you’ll taste several different varieties of Ottakringer beers, including their award-winning range. We noted that the reviews frequently mention the quality of the samples—with one reviewer saying, “nice samples at the end,” and another emphasizing “30 minutes of as much beer as you can drink.” It’s a relaxed, fun way to wrap up the experience and truly appreciate the brewery’s offerings.

The Practical Side: Price, Duration, and Accessibility

At $23 per person, this tour offers solid value—especially considering the insider knowledge, the behind-the-scenes access, and the generous tastings. The duration, about 1.5 hours, makes it manageable even if you have a tight schedule or want a quick but memorable activity.

The tour is designed for adult visitors, and participants must be over 18, which makes sense given the alcohol tastings. The meeting point is convenient for public transport, making it easy to include in a day’s sightseeing. The group size tends to be intimate enough to ask questions comfortably, and the entire experience is conducted in English and German.

Considerations and Tips

While the tour is quite engaging, it involves standing for extended periods, so comfortable shoes are a must. If you’re traveling with someone with mobility issues, this might not be the best fit since access to certain production areas is restricted and unsupervised wandering isn’t permitted. Everyone is expected to follow the guide’s instructions to ensure safety and security.

Weather isn’t an issue since the tour takes place indoors, but if you’re visiting during colder months or in rain, just dress appropriately. No pets are allowed, and eating or drinking outside designated areas isn’t permitted.

What We Loved and What Could Be Better

Reading through reviews and considering the experience, it’s clear that guides make a big difference. One reviewer called their guide “very good, clear, and informative,” which seems to be a common sentiment. The quality of the beer—including their award-winning options—is another highlight, making it a worthwhile outing for beer fans.

However, some might find the standing and walking a bit tiring—especially if you’re not used to it. The duration is just enough to keep things lively without feeling rushed. Also, since the tour is specifically focused on the brewing process and history, it isn’t a wide-ranging cultural tour of Vienna itself, but that’s not its goal.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for beer enthusiasts wanting to explore Vienna’s brewing scene firsthand. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate learning about local traditions or are curious about manufacturing processes. If you enjoy tasting sessions and are looking for a reasonably priced activity, this tour ticks those boxes neatly.

It’s best suited for adults since it involves alcohol, and those with mobility challenges might want to consider their comfort level with standing and walking. Families with children under 18 will need to look elsewhere, as this tour is explicitly for grown-ups.

Final Thoughts

In a city like Vienna, known for its historic sites and cultural riches, a visit to the Ottakringer brewery offers a different kind of insight into local life. You’ll get a taste of Vienna’s brewing heritage, combined with expert guidance and quality beer tastings, all in a friendly setting. It’s an easy, enjoyable way to connect with Vienna’s craft beer scene without the fuss or expense of larger tours.

Overall, if you’re after a relaxed, informative, and tasty experience in Vienna, this brewery tour is a solid choice. It’s not flashy but authentic, and that’s what makes it special.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, the tour is only for participants over 18 years old due to alcohol tastings.

How long does the tour last?
The experience takes about 1.5 hours, making it a manageable activity for most travelers.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans shift.

Where does the tour start?
It starts at the corner of Feßtgasse/Ottakringer Straße at the Ottakringer forecourt, accessible by public transport.

What should I wear?
Closed-toe shoes are required for safety and comfort—bring something comfortable for walking.

Is the experience in English?
Yes, the tour is conducted in both English and German, depending on the group.

Are photos allowed during the tour?
Yes, photos are permitted, but filming and sound recordings require prior approval from the guide.

What if the weather is bad?
Since the tour takes place indoors, weather won’t impact your experience.

If you’re around Vienna and want to learn about a local brewing tradition while enjoying some good beers, this guided tour is a straightforward, enjoyable choice. It balances informative storytelling with fun tastings—something that’s perfect for a casual day of discovering Vienna’s local flavors.

You can check availability for your dates here: