The Netherlands is a nation known for its tasty local beer and there is no better way to explore the capital city’s breweries and bars than with a beer tasting in Amsterdam.

Sample a variety of Dutch beers to determine your favorite and learn about the beer brewing process as you immerse yourself in the city’s buzzing lager culture.

Here's all you need to know about beer tastings, one of the most enticing gastronomic experiences in Amsterdam.

What are the best beer tasting tours in Amsterdam?

Beer tastings and craft brewery tour in Amsterdam

Gain a deeper understanding of Amsterdam’s craft beer culture as you tour the city in a comfortable, air-conditioned bus. An expert guide will be with you for the entire experience, providing interesting facts and anecdotes about the breweries you’ll visit.

The tour visits three small breweries in the city, where you’ll get to sample delicious local craft beer and chat with the brewery owners about their process and favorite beers. After around 3 fun-filled hours of exploring Amsterdam, you’ll be dropped off at the tour’s starting point.

The tour is limited to 15 people, so is a great way to make friends and meet new people while still ensuring a personal experience.

Private beer boat tour in Amsterdam

Cruise along the famous canals of Amsterdam onboard a comfortable boat tour and see some of the city’s most iconic sites as you sample delicious Dutch beer. This is the ideal way to relax and spend the afternoon or evening with your travel companions in the capital of the Netherlands.

An experienced skipper is at the helm and will take you to see some of the city’s top-rated attractions, providing a bit of commentary along the way. The boat can host up to 35 people, and as this is a private excursion, you’ll enjoy a personalized and intimate experience.

You’ll be provided with a variety of Dutch beer from an open bar on the boat and once the 1.5-hour boat ride is over, the skipper can drop you off at a site of your choice.

Private Dutch beer tasting tour in Amsterdam’s Old Town

Take in the lively and historic atmosphere of Amsterdam’s Old Town when you book this private Dutch beer tasting tour, which caters to your tour group’s specific needs and preferences. See where the locals drink and which bars serve the best pints!

Your exclusive experience is led by an expert tour guide, who can answer all the beer-related questions that you may have. Visit a variety of bars and breweries as you make unforgettable memories with your travel companions.

There are a few different options to choose from, including a 2-hour tour, a 3-hour tour and a 4-hour tour, with the longer tours also including food tastings alongside the beer samples.

Are there any combos available with beer tasting tours in Amsterdam?

Cheese tasting with wine and beer pairing

The Netherlands is known for its flavor-filled dairy products, including a wide variety of cheeses! Embark on a cheese tasting in Amsterdam, where you’ll get to taste a variety of local cheeses alongside beer and wine.

Street food tour with gin and beer tasting

Walk around some of Amsterdam’s trendiest neighborhoods as you taste a variety of delicious delicacies with your knowledgeable guide on a food tour. Alongside the street food, you’ll also enjoy samples of local beer and gin.

Which places are visited?

While each beer tour in Amsterdam follows a slightly different itinerary, most of them visit a variety of breweries and bars in the city to give participants an idea of the city’s beer culture. Along the way, you may get to see a few of Amsterdam’s historic landmarks and attractions.

Beer tours like the beer boat tour do not visit any breweries or bars. Instead, all tastings take place onboard the boat.

How much do beer tasting tours in Amsterdam cost?

Basic beer tasting tours in Amsterdam typically cost around €60 per person for a group excursion that visits three breweries and includes several tastings.

Private beer tasting tours, such as the beer boat tour, usually cost around €170 per person, but this price can fluctuate depending on how many tour participants there are and cost upwards of €200.

What is included?

When you book a beer tour in Amsterdam, your excursion is typically inclusive of several beer tastings, an expert beer guide and transport between the various locations of the tour.

Food is not typically included in beer tasting tours, so be sure to bring along some extra money should you want to purchase any meals along the way.

Where does it start?

You’ll need to meet your guide at the tour’s meet point at least 5 minutes before your beer tasting excursion starts. Tours typically begin from easy-to-find landmarks in the city, such as the Sea Palace Restaurant, the ‘This is Holland’ offices and Munttoren.

How long does it last?

While the typical duration of beer tastings in Amsterdam is around 1.5 hours, these excursions can last anywhere between 45 minutes and 3 hours depending on the type of tour you choose.

Is it wheelchair friendly?

While beer boat tours and beer bus tours in Amsterdam are not wheelchair friendly, there are a few private beer tours that are suitable for wheelchair users.

When is the best time for a beer tasting tour in Amsterdam?

The best time for a beer tasting tour in Amsterdam is in the shoulder months of spring and autumn. The high summer season between July and August can get hot and crowded, so a tour during the months of April and May or September and October provides a quieter and more relaxing excursion.

What other gastronomic experiences can you enjoy in Amsterdam?

Travel tips

Consuming alcohol on an empty stomach can intensify its effects. Eating a meal before your tasting can help you pace your alcohol consumption and enjoy the experience longer.
Drink water between tastings to cleanse your palate and stay hydrated.
Familiarize yourself with some beer terminology and the different types of beers beforehand. Knowing the difference between an ale, lager, stout, or IPA can enhance your tasting experience.

Beer Tastings in Amsterdam