Rotterdam is a city that’s not just about striking architecture and maritime history—it’s also a fantastic destination for beer lovers and nightlife enthusiasts. The city’s thriving craft beer scene, combined with its scenic waterways, makes for memorable drinking experiences. We particularly like the Rotterdam: Breweries and Water Taxi Tour for its mix of local brews and stunning city views from the water, which offers a truly unique way to explore Rotterdam’s vibrant beer culture. For a more casual, laid-back experience, the Rotterdam: Stadshaven Brewery Tour with Beer Tastings provides an in-depth look at modern brewing techniques in a historic setting. And for those who want to combine sightseeing with a lively pub crawl, the Ludwig’s Original Pub Crawl with VIP Club Entry stands out for its insider access and energetic atmosphere.
If you’re curious about the different ways to enjoy Rotterdam’s drinking scene, this list covers a variety of options—whether you prefer brewery tours, water-based excursions, or lively nightlife explorations. Whether you’re a dedicated beer connoisseur or just looking for a fun way to meet fellow travelers, there’s something here for everyone. Now, let’s dive into the details of each experience, so you can pick the perfect tour for your trip.
Types of Drinking Tours in Rotterdam
On our list, you’ll find brewery visits, such as the Rotterdam: Stadshaven Brewery Tour with Beer Tastings, which offers an up-close look at modern brewing innovations. Plus, the beer tastings at Noordt are perfect for those wanting a quick, relaxed sampling experience (see more here). For a more comprehensive experience, the Breweries and Water Taxi Tour combines brewery visits with scenic boat rides, giving a different perspective of the city (details here).
Beyond brewery tours, there are pub crawls like Ludwig’s, which take you into Rotterdam’s nightlife scene, offering multiple bar visits with VIP access (more info here). Lastly, for those seeking a relaxed, social experience, the Boat & Beer Walking Tour combines walking, water taxis, and craft beer tastings over several hours (see the tour details).
Next, we’ll explore each of these exciting options in detail.
1. Rotterdam: Stadshaven Brewery Tour with Beer Tastings
At number 1, this Stadshaven Brewery Tour offers a full hour to 100 minutes of insight into Rotterdam’s brewing scene, all for just $13. The tour takes you inside one of the world’s largest former fruit storehouses, now a hub of brewing innovation. You’ll learn about modern brewing techniques and the brewery’s sustainability goals while enjoying a selection of locally brewed beers.
What makes this tour stand out is how accessible it is—both in price and in approachability. The guide makes complex brewing processes easy to understand, making it perfect for novices and craft beer aficionados alike. Reviewers love the quality of the beers and the friendly atmosphere, with one calling it “interesting and enjoyable.” Another highlights the helpfulness of the staff, mentioning a private tour experience with Dennis that was “explained very well.” And a third guest appreciated the vegan snacks paired with the tastings, making it a well-rounded experience.
This tour is ideal if you want a quick, affordable way to dive into Rotterdam’s brewing culture without breaking the bank. It’s best suited for travelers interested in learning about beer production and enjoying quality local brews in a relaxed setting.
Bottom Line: A highly-rated, affordable brewery experience that combines history, innovation, and excellent beer in a compact format.
2. Rotterdam: Beer Brewery ‘Noordt’ Beer Tasting
Next on our list is the Noordt Beer Tasting, which offers a 30-minute visit to a typical Rotterdam brewery. For just $9 per person, you’ll enjoy a flight of three beers on the terrace or inside the tasting room. Noordt is known for its no-nonsense, smooth beers, which are crafted to appeal to all palates, from light lagers to more flavorful IPAs.
This experience is straightforward but highly enjoyable. The set of three flights allows you to sample different styles, helping you identify your favorite. Guests praise the quality and consistency of Noordt’s beers, and the small, intimate setting makes it easy to chat with the staff or fellow beer lovers. If you prefer a quick and relaxed tasting, this tour is perfect.
The highlight here is the ability to choose between classic Belgian beers or a selection of IPAs, depending on your taste. The tour’s affordability and the chance to enjoy a beer on Rotterdam’s lively terrace make it a great value.
Bottom Line: An excellent short visit for beer lovers wanting to sample locally brewed beers in a friendly, no-fuss setting.
3. Rotterdam: Breweries and Water Taxi Tour
For around $108, the Breweries and Water Taxi Tour combines three of Rotterdam’s best experiences: brewery visits, local snacks, and scenic boat rides. This 4-hour tour is a real deep dive into the city’s beer scene. You’ll explore the oldest, newest, and biggest breweries—all in one trip—while savoring tasty local beers and snacks.
What sets this tour apart is the inclusion of two water taxi rides that offer spectacular views of Rotterdam from the Maas River. As you cruise past the city’s port and skyline, your guide shares fascinating stories about the city’s history, culture, and brewing scene. The tour is suitable for those with a curiosity about Rotterdam’s port and industrial past, combined with a love for craft beer.
Guests have raved about the mix of city stories and beer tastings, noting that the water taxis give a relaxed, scenic backdrop to the experience. Although the price is higher than other options, the combination of diverse breweries and water rides offers solid value for those wanting an extended, immersive day.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive, scenic tour ideal for those who want to combine sightseeing, craft beer, and a bit of adventure in one outing.
4. Boat & Beer Walking Tour
If you prefer exploring by foot and water, the Boat & Beer Walking Tour might be your best bet. This 4-hour group tour features stops at four different breweries, with tastings and snacks at each. The tour begins at Rotterdam Central Station and includes two water taxi rides along the Maas, offering postcard-worthy views of the city’s old and new harbors.
What makes this tour special is the combination of guided walking and water transportation, providing a flexible, engaging way to see the city. The guide shares insights into Rotterdam’s brewing history and local culture, making the experience both educational and fun. The tour is rated perfect by those who have joined, indicating it’s well-organized and enjoyable.
Guests rave about the experience, with one saying, “Traveling in water taxis gave a unique view of Rotterdam.” The tour includes visits to multiple breweries and tasting local craft beers, making it a great way to sample Rotterdam’s beer scene while discovering the city from different perspectives.
Bottom Line: A well-balanced mix of walking, water rides, and beer tastings, perfect for travelers who enjoy a social, energetic day.
5. Rotterdam: Pub Cruise with Drinks and Bites
For a two-hour adventure, the Pub Cruise offers a lively way to see Rotterdam from the river while enjoying drinks and snacks. For around $20, you’ll cruise the Maas, taking in skyline views, and sip on six units of beer, wine, or soda. The cruise features a fully stocked bar in an authentic, 1898-built ship, Uncle Aad’s.
The highlight is the combination of harbor scenery with refreshing drinks, making it a relaxed, social outing. The tour is especially suited for those who want a taste of Rotterdam’s maritime charm along with some casual drinking. Guests appreciate the lively atmosphere and the chance to see the city’s port, with one noting it’s a “beautiful way to relax and enjoy the skyline.”
The main limitation is the short duration, but for a quick, scenic escape, this cruise hits the spot. It’s perfect if you want a combination of sightseeing, casual drinks, and a bit of Dutch maritime history in a compact format.
Bottom Line: An easy, fun water-based tour ideal for those seeking a relaxed, scenic experience with drinks on the Maas.
6. The Ultimate Rotterdam Bar Crawl Experience
If nightlife is your focus, Ludwig’s Ultimate Bar Crawl offers a three-hour adventure visiting 3–4 top bars in Rotterdam’s lively district. For $41 per person, you start with a welcome shot and continue exploring some of the city’s coolest and most diverse venues. With VIP club entry included, this tour is a great way to experience Rotterdam’s vibrant bar scene with a knowledgeable guide.
This experience is perfect if you love hopping from laid-back pubs to stylish cocktail bars, and want insider tips on the best places. Guests rave about the friendly guides and the lively atmosphere. It’s suitable for travelers who enjoy socializing and discovering local nightlife in a structured but relaxed setting. The tour’s value is high considering the VIP entry and multiple bar visits included.
Bottom Line: A lively, social tour for those who want to see Rotterdam’s nightlife in a fun, guided format with a mix of local pubs and clubs.
7. Rotterdam: Brewery Noordt Tour Including Two Beers
At number 7, the Noordt Brewery Tour is a quick 30-minute visit that offers a glimpse into Rotterdam’s no-nonsense brewing philosophy. For $20, you’ll learn about the brewing process and enjoy two beers of your choice. Noordt is recognized for its smooth, straightforward beers, which appeal to a wide audience.
Ideal for travelers short on time, this tour provides a taste of Rotterdam’s craft beer scene without the need for a long commitment. The focus on quality, simple beers makes it practical and accessible for those new to craft brewing or looking for a quick drink. Though reviews are not specified, the consistent praise for Noordt’s beers suggests a satisfying experience.
If you’re interested in learning about the brewing process in a relaxed setting, this is a solid choice. It works well as a quick stop during a day exploring the city.
Bottom Line: A concise, engaging brewery visit perfect for a quick beer fix and a bit of insight into local brewing.
8. Rotterdam: Ludwig’s Original Pub Crawl with VIP Club Entry
Number 8 is Ludwig’s Original Pub Crawl, which combines city nightlife with VIP access. Over four hours, you’ll visit five bars, each with a free welcome shot, and gain entry to a popular club afterward. The tour costs a variable amount but is highly rated at 4.8/5, making it a favorite among nightlife seekers.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want to explore Rotterdam’s top bars and hidden gems under the guidance of a local. The inclusion of VIP club tickets means you skip lines and enjoy an exclusive experience. Guests love the social vibe, the diversity of venues, and the insider knowledge shared by the guides. It’s a perfect choice if you want a lively, memorable night out.
Bottom Line: An energetic, VIP nightlife experience that uncovers Rotterdam’s best bars and clubs with ease.
9. Rotterdam: Ludwig’s Private Pub Crawl with VIP Club Entry
Finally, the Private Pub Crawl offers a more personalized experience for four hours, visiting five top bars with VIP club access included. Also rated 4.8/5, this private version is ideal if you prefer a more intimate, tailored night out. The guide will customize the experience to your group’s preferences, making it perfect for special occasions or those who prefer a quieter, more exclusive exploration.
Like its group counterpart, this tour provides a variety of bar styles, from historic pubs to trendy craft spots, with free shots at each. The VIP entry ensures a smooth transition to Rotterdam’s nightclub scene afterward. Reviewers mention the guide’s professionalism and the overall seamless experience.
Bottom Line: A flexible, private night out tailored to your group’s tastes, with insider access and VIP treatment for a truly special evening.
How to Choose the Right Drinking Tour in Rotterdam
Choosing the best drinking experience depends on your interests, budget, and schedule. If you want an affordable, in-depth brewery tour, the Stadshaven Brewery Tour is a top pick. For a quick taste of Rotterdam’s craft beers, Noordt’s tasting (see more) offers a relaxed, no-fuss option.
Those seeking a comprehensive day combining sightseeing, boat rides, and craft beers will enjoy the Breweries and Water Taxi Tour. Meanwhile, if nightlife is your focus, the Ludwig’s Pub Crawl offers lively bar hopping with VIP access. The Boat & Beer Walking Tour suits those who like a mix of walking, water, and tasting, and is ideal if you want a social, energetic experience.
Consider your budget, how much time you have, and whether you prefer a structured tour or a flexible night out. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular options like the pub crawls and private tours, to ensure availability.
Final Thoughts
Rotterdam offers a fantastic variety of drinking tours, from quick brewery tastings to full-day adventures involving boat rides and nightlife. For those interested in craft beer, the Stadshaven Brewery Tour and Noordt tasting are excellent choices. If you want a scenic, multifaceted experience, the Breweries and Water Taxi Tour is hard to beat. For night owls, Ludwig’s pub crawls provide a lively, insider look at the city’s best bars and clubs.
No matter which experience appeals most, Rotterdam’s diverse offerings promise memorable moments—so book early and enjoy exploring this dynamic city’s vibrant drinking scene.
