Brussels: Belgian Beer Tasting Tour with Local Bars

Summary

Sample Trappist ales in Brussels bars with a local guide

You’ll join locals and fellow travelers in Brussels for a relaxed Belgian beer tasting tour led by an expert guide. Sample Trappist ales and three unique brews in cozy city center bars, learning why Belgium’s craft beers are so celebrated worldwide. Expect laughter, new flavors, and maybe even a story or two you’ll want to retell later.

What’s the experience like?

We ducked under the glass canopy of the Royal Galleries of Saint Hubert — you know, that old arcade where the light always feels soft and golden, even when it’s raining outside. Our group was still shaking off the city noise when our guide, Pieter, handed me my first Belgian beer. It was cold, slightly spicy on the nose, and I could smell a faint yeasty sweetness before I even took a sip. Someone laughed about how early it felt for beer; Pieter just grinned and said Belgians don’t really keep track of time that way.

Walking through Brussels with a glass in hand (well, technically we finished before moving on — rules are rules), Pieter started talking about what makes Belgian beer different. He explained the Trappist ale thing — brewed by monks, strict recipes — but honestly, I was more distracted by the way locals waved at him as we passed. The next bar was tucked behind a blue door I’d never have noticed. Inside: dark wood, quiet chatter, and three small glasses lined up for us. Each one tasted wildly different — one almost floral, another like toasted bread. I tried to say “cheers” in Dutch; pretty sure I got it wrong because the bartender chuckled.

I didn’t expect to actually learn so much about Belgian beer culture on this tour. There’s something about sitting elbow-to-elbow with strangers while someone explains why this tiny country has over a thousand types of beer. By the end, we ended up at a spot where locals were already deep into their Friday night conversations. Some people from our group stayed behind; I left thinking about how every bar had its own smell — hops, old wood, sometimes just damp coats drying by the door. Still crave that first sip sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Guided Belgian beer tasting tour

• Meet local beer expert in Brussels
• Enjoy a crisp Belgian brew
• Learn about Belgian beer uniqueness
• Walk to iconic bars in Brussels
• Taste traditional Trappist ale
• Sample three traditional Belgian brews
• Option to continue tasting independently

Top questions

How long does the Brussels Belgian beer tasting tour last?

The tour lasts about 2.5 hours.

Is there hotel pickup included for this beer tasting tour?

No hotel pickup is included; you meet your guide in central Brussels.

What beers are included in the tasting?

You’ll get one free Belgian Trappist ale plus three other traditional Belgian beer samples.

Are children allowed on this tour?

Yes, children under 18 can join but cannot participate in beer tasting.

Do I need to bring anything special for this tour?

You must bring valid photo ID if you plan to taste beer (18+ only).

Is this Brussels beer tour suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels.

Does the itinerary always include the same bars?

The exact bars may vary depending on the day but are always located in Brussels city centre.

What’s included

Your day includes meeting your local guide in central Brussels before sampling one complimentary Trappist ale and three additional Belgian beers at various city center bars; all tastings are included before finishing at a popular local hangout where you can linger or head out as you wish.