Haarlem offers more than just pretty canals and charming streets; it’s a city where beer lovers and night owls find plenty to enjoy. Unlike some Dutch cities where touristy bars dominate, Haarlem’s brewing culture runs deep, with local breweries and lively pubs that give you a taste of authentic Dutch hospitality. We particularly love the Haarlem: Local Craft Beer Tasting In The Famous ‘Jopenkerk’ for its unique setting—drinking in a former church—plus sampling four Jopen beers paired with bitterballen. It’s a straightforward, fun introduction to Haarlem’s brewing scene that fits nicely into an afternoon.
For travelers eager for a lively night out, the Ludwig’s Private Pub Crawl offers a VIP experience, hitting five of Haarlem’s best bars with a personal guide, free welcome shots, and VIP club access. If you’re more into discovering the city’s secrets at your own pace, the Private 2-hour Haarlem Walking Tour with Beer Tasting combines sightseeing with a laid-back beer tasting, revealing Haarlem’s hidden corners and medieval architecture.
Below, you’ll find a detailed look at each of these top-rated drinking experiences, helping you decide which fits your style best.
1. Haarlem: Local Craft Beer Tasting In The Famous ‘Jopenkerk’
At number one on our list, the Haarlem: Local Craft Beer Tasting In The Famous ‘Jopenkerk’ offers a taste of Haarlem’s brewing heritage inside a historic church. This 1-hour tasting session includes sampling four Jopen beers, a renowned local brewery with roots dating back to the 1400s. What makes this experience special is the setting—drinking craft beer in a beautifully restored church that once served as a house of worship, now turned brewery.
The tour is perfect for those who want a quick, authentic experience with a local touch. The pairing of each beer with bitterballen—Dutch snacks similar to fried meatballs—adds a flavorful, cultural twist. Visitors often comment on how atmospheric and cozy the Jopenkerk is, making it a memorable stop during your Haarlem visit. The informal format means you can focus on enjoying the beers and chatting with friends or fellow travelers.
Bottom Line: If you’re curious about Haarlem’s brewing traditions and want to enjoy a historic setting with flavorful local beers, this tasting is a solid choice—simple, authentic, and fun.
2. Haarlem: Ludwig’s Private Pub Crawl with VIP Club Entry
Ranking just behind the top spot, the Ludwig’s Private Pub Crawl offers a lively 3-hour evening exploring Haarlem’s top bars. With a maximum group size of 12, this tour provides a personal yet energetic introduction to the city’s nightlife. Your guide, a local with insider knowledge, takes you to five handpicked bars, each with its own unique character.
The highlight? Every stop includes a free welcome shot, and drink specials make the evening even more appealing. The tour ends with VIP access to a popular club, so you’ll experience Haarlem’s after-hours scene in style. The reviews are glowing—rated 4.9 out of 5—mainly for its fun atmosphere and the guide’s engaging personality. Guests say it’s a perfect way to meet fellow travelers and locals alike, with the guide sharing insider tips along the way.
This experience is ideal for night owls and social butterflies who want a curated, lively night out. The cost reflects a private, all-inclusive experience with VIP perks, making it great value if you’re eager to see Haarlem’s nightlife in a relaxed, social setting.
Bottom Line: If you want a guided, lively night with a local touch and VIP treatment, this pub crawl offers both fun and exclusivity—great for groups and party lovers.
3. Private 2-hour Haarlem Walking Tour with Official Guide and Beer Tasting
Coming in at third, the Private 2-hour Haarlem Walking Tour with Beer Tasting is perfect for those who want a deeper dive into Haarlem’s secrets alongside a laid-back beer experience. This tour begins at Grote Markt, the city’s main square, and takes you through charming alleys, hidden courtyards, and past medieval buildings.
What sets this tour apart is the focus on Haarlem’s architecture and history, including visits to iconic sights like the Cathedral of St Bavo and lesser-known spots like old beguinages. The guide shares personal stories and insights, making history come alive. The beer tasting is integrated seamlessly, giving you a chance to sample local brews while soaking in the city’s atmosphere. The tour’s flexibility allows for personalized stops, and it’s great for travelers who want a mix of sightseeing and tasting without the rushed feeling.
Most reviewers say the guide’s storytelling is engaging, with one noting, “It felt like exploring with a knowledgeable friend.” The tour is suitable for history buffs, architecture lovers, and anyone keen on discovering Haarlem’s hidden corners.
Bottom Line: For those who enjoy history and architecture paired with a relaxed beer tasting, this private tour offers a well-rounded, personalized experience of Haarlem.
How to Choose Your Perfect Haarlem Drinking Tour
When choosing between these options, consider your priorities: are you after a quick craft beer experience in a memorable setting? The Jopenkerk tasting fits nicely into a day of sightseeing. Want to party the night away with a guided social experience? The pub crawl is ideal for groups and night owls. If you prefer a more relaxed, cultural experience with some beer, the walking tour combines sightseeing with tasting in an intimate setting.
Budget, time, and your interests will help narrow your choice. For example, if you’re traveling on a tight schedule, the craft beer tasting provides a quick but authentic taste of Haarlem’s brewing scene. If you’re celebrating or want a group activity, the pub crawl offers fun and social interaction. For those who love history and architecture, the guided walking tour combines culture with a laid-back beer experience.
Booking early is advisable, especially for the pub crawl, which sells out quickly. Think about the experience you’ll cherish most—whether it’s the historic church, a night of lively pub hopping, or a quiet walk with local brews—and plan accordingly.
Haarlem’s drinking scene offers a variety of experiences to suit different tastes. Whether you want to sip craft beers in a historic church, dance through the city’s vibrant pubs, or explore with a guide while sampling local brews, this city has a lot to offer. With a bit of planning, you’ll find the perfect way to enjoy Haarlem’s friendly, authentic drinking culture.
