best bruges brewery tour

11 Best Bruges Beer Tours in 2024

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ARE YOU LOOKING FOR THE ULTIMATE BEER ADVENTURE IN BRUGES? IF SO, THEN YOU HAVE COME TO THE RIGHT PLACE!

As a local, born and raised nearby Bruges, I am here, excited and proud to lead you through the 11 best beer tours in this charming Belgian city.

Bruges, the charming city known for its canals and, of course, its delicious beer !!

From walking tours to brewery visits, I’ve tried and tested them all to bring you the most comprehensive list of Bruges beer tours.

Oh well! I may not be a beer expert, but I know my way around the Bruges beer scene.

So, grab a cold one and dive into this picturesque city’s top beer experiences.

Ready to quench your thirst for knowledge and incredible beer?

Let’s go!

Best of Bruges: History, Chocolate & Beer Tour

⭐ 5.0 | ⌛ 3h 30m

Bruges Bites & Sights – Walking tour

⭐ 5.0 | ⌛ 2 – 3 h

BeerWalk Bruges (English guide)

⭐ 5.0 | ⌛ 3 h

Best BRUGES Beer Tours

If you’re a beer lover visiting Bruges, joining a guided beer tour is a must-do activity. Here are the 11 best beer tours in Bruges that you must try.

BEST BRUGES BEER TOURS

1. Best of Bruges: History, Chocolate & Beer Tour

⭐ RATING: 5.0 ( 125 reviews )| ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours 30 minutes | 💰 CHECK PRICE

Explore the charming city of Bruges with the Best of Bruges: History, Chocolate & Beer Tour .

This tour offers a fascinating insight into the city’s past , offering the opportunity to discover its beautiful medieval architecture and learn about its significant historical events.

Discover sweet treats as you visit some of the city’s best chocolate shops , where you’ll learn about the traditional Belgian chocolate-making process and some mouth-watering samples.

Explore the city’s stunning medieval centre as your guide shares fascinating stories and facts about its UNESCO-listed heritage .

And the highlights of this tour!!

You’ll visit the renowned Bourgogne de Flandres brewery , where you’ll learn about beermaking and enjoy refreshing tasting sessions.

This tour is a brilliant opportunity to experience three of Bruges’ top highlights, all in one day.

“ Great tour, the guide Nicolas was really knowledgable on the history of the city, chocolates and beer. We visited a chocolate shop which had delicious tasters.The brewery tour was informative and we had a lovely taster with Nicolas who shared some of his recommendations on where to eat and drink in the city. “ Rozalyn_H, Feb 2020 ( see reviews )

2. Bruges Bites & Sights – Belgian Food, Beer & A Little Bit Of History

⭐ RATING: 5.0 ( 82 reviews ) | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 2 to 3 hours | 💰 CHECK PRICE

The Bruges Bites & Sights walking tour will take you on a delicious journey through the city, sampling some of the best Belgian food and beer while learning about this enchanting city’s history .

Walking through the enchanting city centre, you’ll visit the best places to try some of Belgium’s most iconic foods and drinks.

Prepare your tastebuds for heavenly Belgian chocolate, crispy fries, fluffy waffles, and refreshing beer .

But this tour is not just about the food but also about the stories behind it.

Your guide will also share fascinating stories about Bruges’ history and culinary heritage, giving you a deeper appreciation for this beautiful city.

This tour is for anyone who loves delicious food and wants to learn more about the culture and traditions of Bruges.

“It was fantastic. Very casual. Hit all the best in chocolate, beer, fry’s and waffles. Guide was full of great stories and very familiar with the city and history. Great you!!!” Jim_H, Aug 2022 ( SEE REVIEWS )

3. BeerWalk Bruges (English guide)

⭐ RATING: 5.0 ( 73 reviews )| ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours (approx.)| 💰 CHECK PRICE

If you’re a beer lover, then a trip to Bruges should be at the top of your list. And what better way to experience the city’s famous beer culture than with a BeerWalk ?

Led by an English-speaking guide , start your journey at the Bruges Beer Museum .

During this tour, you’ll have the chance to learn about the city’s brewing culture before embarking on an informative walking tour of the UNESCO-listed medieval centre .

Along the way, you’ll get to stop at several local beer hotspots and taste five delicious Belgian beers , immersing yourself in the unique flavours and aromas of the region.

It’s a fantastic way to spend an afternoon in one of Europe’s most charming cities and an unforgettable experience for any beer enthusiast.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned beer lover, this walking tour offers a fun and educational experience you will remember.

“We expected to drink beer and hear everything about beer but we got so much more than that! Just do it – you won’t regret” Jacqueline_T, Mar 2022 ( SEE REVIEWS )

4. Beertasting Brugge

⭐ RATING: 5.0 ( 25 reviews )| ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours | 💰 CHECK PRICE

Brugge is well-known for its delicious beers . Among the many activities to do in this quaint city, beer tasting is a must-try experience . The Beertasting Brugge tour is unique .

Unlike other tours that require you to walk from bar to brewery, these tours offer tastings in a single location so you can sit back and relax while the guide of this tour leads you through the brewing process.

During this tour, you’ll taste six Belgian beers , each with distinct flavours.

Plus, if you’re planning a group outing, consider booking a private tasting for more than 8 people.

They can also customize the experience to fit your preferences.

“it was so much fun!!!!! we loved trying a variety of belgium beers, which were all delicious. i would highly recommend this experience” Alexandra_P, Mar 2023 ( SEE REVIEWS )

5. Bruges: 3-Hour Beer and Chocolate Tasting Private Tour

⭐ RATING: 4.9/5 ( 8 reviews )| ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 3-hour tour | 💰 CHECK PRICE

This Private 3-hour beer and chocolate tasting tour will take you through the historic centre of Bruges, where you will be transported back in time as you stroll through medieval squares and admire the city’s impressive monuments in the Market Square, The Burg, Fish Market, medieval Dijver, and Minnewater .

Along the way, the tour will stop at the Choco-Story museum to learn about the fascinating history of chocolate, from the cacao beans of the Mayans to the Aztecs , and sample some of the delicious chocolates .

You will also be able to visit the historic De Halve Maan brewery .

This historic brewery has been producing the famous De Brugse Zot beer for over a century , and you enjoy a three-course lunch , all while sipping on traditional Belgian beers .

This beer and chocolate private tour is perfect for those who want to explore Bruges through its flavours and experience the local way of life.

This is a beautiful tour to get to know Bruges. It is diverse, and the time passes too quickly.” get your guide traveller ( SEE REVIEWS )

6. Bruges: Belgian Waffle-Making Workshop with Beer Tasting

⭐ RATING: 4.8/5 ( 59 reviews ) | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: Duration 1.5 hours | 💰 CHECK PRICE

Discover the sweet and savoury world of Belgian waffles at a unique workshop in the charming city of Bruges.

The Bruges Belgian Waffle-Making Workshop with Beer Tasting tour will allow you to make the famous Belgian waffle, taste different Belgian beers, and learn about their history and brewing process.

The workshop will teach you how to make these mouth-watering treats using traditional recipes and methods.

The workshop includes all the ingredients, cookware, and toppings you’ll need to create perfect Belgian waffles that are light, fluffy, and crispy.

You can also choose your favourite Belgian beer to pair with your waffles. A selection of refreshing beverages is available for those who prefer a nonalcoholic drink .

Overall, this workshop is a fun and interactive way to learn about Belgian culture and cuisine.

You’ll taste some delicious treats and take home the skills and knowledge to recreate them.

“We LOVED this activity. Biet was entertaining and informative about beers. We had three good pours of samples of beers and then the fun of waffle making began. We did not need to eat dinner afterwards as the portions were large. Highly recommended!!” get your guide traveller ( SEE REVIEWS )

7. Bruges: Belgian Beer Tour

⭐ RATING: 4.5/5 ( 17 reviews ) | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: Duration 3 hours | 💰 CHECK THE PRICE

Take a thrilling Bruges Belgian Beer Tour to immerse yourself in the city’s diverse brewing culture.

You’ll start with a visit to some of the city’s best-known breweries , where you’ll meet the brewer , learn about the brewing process , and learn how to differentiate between different types of beer , such as ales and lagers , triples , and Lambics .

Then, explore the city’s hidden gems , visit lively beer haunts, and get to sample a wide range of traditional and craft beers , from malty , hoppy , fruity , reddish , herby, sour, and triple varieties .

While on tour, you’ll also experience some of the best local delicacies, such as an exclusive combination of beer and artisan chocolate .

You’ll learn how to pair Trappist or Lambic beers with chocolate and other local treats.

You can also participate in an entertaining beer game during this tour!!

This beer-tasting tour is an excellent way to experience Bruges’s unique flavours and culture while discovering the city’s rich brewing history.

“It was great and the guide did the tour with so much heart and enthusiasm and with so much attention to detail.” get your guide traveller ( SEE REVIEWS )

8. Drinks & Bites in Bruges Private Tour

⭐RATING: 4.5 ( 11 reviews ) | ⌛ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours 30 minutes | 💰 CHECK PRICE

Experience the craft beer culture of Bruges with a private tour of Drinks & Bites and discover the hidden gems of the city’s food and drink scene.

Your guide will take you and your group to the finest breweries in the city , where you can sample and enjoy three beer tastings with delicious traditional Belgian snacks .

As you journey through the city, your guide will provide insightful commentary about Bruges and its culinary scene and beer history, ensuring you understand this lovely city more deeply.

This private tour gives you plenty of opportunities to ask questions and engage with your guide.

And it is designed for you and your party, accommodating up to eight people .

“Alain is a very gentil host with a large dosis of humor. He gave us a interesting tour through Brugges.” Robin_v, Nov 2021 ( SEE REVIEWS )

9. Bruges: The Beer Experience Museum Entry with Audio Guide

⭐RATING: 4.3/5 ( 8 reviews )| LENGTH TOUR: Valid 1 DAY |💰 CHECK PRICE

The Bruges Beer Experience Museum Entry with an Audio Guide tour provides a unique opportunity to learn about the brewing process and the different styles of beer .

And able to see wide variety of exhibits that showcase the history of beer in Belgium, complete with an audio guide on an iPad Mini .

The guide is available in several languages and provides engaging and informative commentary throughout your visit.

During this tour, you’ll learn a lot about Trappist and Abbey beers , their unique brewing techniques , and the local ingredients that create these beloved brews.

At the interactive exhibition about beer, visitors can touch the brewing equipment, taste samples of different beers , and smell the hops and other ingredients used to make them.

After exploring the exhibits, try the on-site beer tasting (optional) and taste several different types of Belgian beer.

This is an excellent opportunity to taste the difference between high, bottom, mixed, and spontaneous fermentation and learn more about the brewing process .

The Bruges Beer Experience Museum is also known as one of the best things to do with your kids in Bruges . Your kids can join fun tours inside the museum for children up to 12 years old that tells the story of the Bruges bear.

“The museum itself is good if you’re interested in how beer is made and it’s origins. A tablet and headset in provided and you make your way around scanning random items to listen to the audio and answer questions along the way. We opted for the beer tasting to be included which was well worth it.” get your guide traveller ( SEE REVIEWS )

10. Bruges: Bourgogne des Flandres Brewery and Distillery

⭐ RATING: 4.1/5 ( 16 reviews ) | ⌛ TOTAL LENGTH: Valid 1 day | 💰 CHECK PRICE

Experiencing the Bourgogne des Flandres Brewery and Distillery Visit in Bruges is a must-visit destination for beer enthusiasts.

The iconic brewery, established in 1765 , has a rich history of producing exceptional beer.

This historic brewery offers visitors a chance to see the brewer in action , as they make their famous beer and genever right before your eyes .

Explore and learn the ingredients used in the brewing and distilling process , and see how the beer ferments in open vessels , and gain a deeper understanding of the production process .

One of the highlights of this tour is the tasting experience.

The staff will be on hand to guide you through the tasting and provide you with detailed information about each product in their colourful, cosy bar.

And you know what is the other highlight of this experience? is how relaxing the location of this place is! You can enjoy the lovely view of the canalside terrace while enjoying a cold brew or two. It’s perfect!

“Beautiful brewery, magnificent location” get your guide traveller ( SEE REVIEWS )

11. Bruges Beer Experience Entrance Ticket

⭐ RATING: 4.0 ( 132 reviews ) | ⌛ LENGTH TOUR: 1 hour (approx.) | 💰 CHECK PRICE

The Bruges Beer Experience is a museum in the heart of the city that offers an excellent opportunity to learn more about the history of beer-making in Belgium.

You can explore the exhibits at your own pace with a high-tech audio guide and learn about the innovative monks who helped to shape the early brewing industry.

The museum is interactive and engaging, and you’ll discover how to pair beer with food and the cultural significance of beer drinking in Belgium .

It’s also an excellent place for families , with a special nonalcoholic kids’ tour to engage younger visitors.

For the adults, there’s an onsite bar with over a dozen different Belgian draught beers on tap , and you can even purchase some famous and craft Belgian beers to take home with you.

Overall, the Bruges Beer Experience is a fun and informative museum that offers a unique perspective on Belgian beermaking history.

“Beer experience is well worth a visit. Tells you about the history of the making of beer the staff at the end of the tour was knowledgeable about the beers they were serving.” MARC_D, May 2022 ( SEE REVIEWS )

Bruges Beer Culture

Bruges is often called the “ beer capital of Belgium ” – for good reason.

Bruges has a rich beer culture that dates back centuries. The city has several historic breweries producing high-quality beers for generations .

It is said that monks living in the city’s many monasteries created some of the earliest Belgian beer recipes and that brewing beer soon became a beloved pastime of the locals.

Today, Bruges is home to 3 known breweries, each with a unique selection of delicious beers from fruity lambic , a dark stout , or a refreshing witbier .

Bruges is also home to some of Europe’s most popular beer events, including the Bruges Beer Festival ( Brugs Bierfestival ) every June 10-11.

This festival features over 80 Belgian breweries and over 500 beer types, from traditional Belgian styles like Dubbels and Tripels to more modern craft beers .

Whether you’re looking for a brewery tour or want to sample some delicious beers in a beautiful setting, Bruges is worth visiting for its vibrant beer culture.

Bruges Best Beer Bars

LE TRAPPISTE

Le Trappiste is another popular beer bar located in the city of Bruges, Belgium. The bar is in a historic building with a cosy atmosphere.

Le Trappiste offers a wide selection of Trappist beers from various monasteries, including Westvleteren, Chimay, Orval, and Rochefort.

The bar also serves a variety of Belgian and international beers and a small selection of food and snacks.

‘t Brugs Beertje.

This bar is popular in Bruges! It was established in 1983 and has become the number one destination for beer lovers around the world!

The bar has a cosy and traditional atmosphere, with over 300 different kinds of Belgian beers available, including rare and hard-to-find varieties.

But what makes Brugs Beertjee special? Of course! Brugs Beertjee is known for its friendly and knowledgeable staff, who are always happy to guide you through its extensive menu if you need help figuring out where to start.

‘T POATERSGAT

The bar is in a 16th-century cellar with a unique, cosy atmosphere that attracts worldwide visitors. It’s the perfect place to enjoy an afternoon beer or snack with friends and loved ones! The bar has an old-world charm and features traditional Belgian beers and snacks like frites and cheese.

The Beer Wall at 2Be

The beer wall at 2Be in Bruges is a must-see for any beer enthusiast.

With over 800 different types of beer on display, this bar truly lives up to its reputation as a beer lover’s paradise.

The impressive wall has over 1250 bottles and cans arranged in colour-coded rows, making for a striking visual display.

But the real draw of the beer wall is the opportunity to try some truly unique brews. From fruity sours to strong stouts, there’s something for every palate here.

Browhuis Corsendonk

If you’re looking for a cosy and relaxed ambience in Bruges to unwind and taste artisanal Belgian beers, the Browhuis Corsendonk bar is worth the visit.

This landmark beer cellar offers an impressive selection of Corsendonk beers brewed by the Corsendonk abbey according to traditional recipes.

You’ll find various beers, ranging from light and refreshing to darker and full-bodied brews.

Don’t forget to try the Corsendonk Agnus, a triple-blond beer with a spicy and floral aroma that pairs perfectly with traditional Belgian dishes.

5 A Must-Try Best Beer in Bruges

🍺 Brugse Zot – Blond Ale

Alcohol level by volume (ABV) of 6.0%.

Brugse Zot Blond Ale is a Belgian-style blonde ale from the De Halve Maan brewery in Bruges, Belgium. It is refreshingly light.

The sweet maltiness of the beer is balanced by subtle bitterness and spicy yeast character, making it an ideal summertime quencher. Enjoy this golden elixir alone or with seafood dishes such as mussels or white fish.

🍺 Bourgogne des Flandres – Flemish Red-Brown

Alcohol level by volume (ABV) of 5%

Bourgogne des Flandres is a Flemish red-brown beer brewed in the northern region of Flanders.

It has a deep, ruby colour and a complex, malty taste. The flavour profile features fruity plum, cherry, earthy dark chocolate notes, and roasted coffee undertones.

The beer is a touch of sourness from the lactic acid that balances out the sweetness of the malts. This beer pairs well with hearty dishes like stews, roasts, sausages, and cheese boards.

🍺 Café Vlissinghe – Belgian Ale

Alcohol level by volume (ABV) of 8%

Café Vlissinghe is both a quaint café in Bruges and their signature beer. The pub is well known for its Belgian ales and stouts brewed onsite .

Café Vlissinghe has been open since 1515, making it one of the oldest pubs in Europe. Their signature Belgian Ale is a dark amber-coloured brew with hints of roasted malt and floral hops.

It gives a bold yet smooth flavour that satisfies any beer enthusiast. You can enjoy a Belgian Ale alongside traditional Belgian dishes such as moules-frites (mussels and fries) or stoofvlees (beef stew).

🍺 Straffe Hendrik Quadrupel

Alcohol level by volume (ABV) of 11%

This beer is dark brown, with hints of caramel, dates and raisins in the aroma. The taste is sweet, malty, and fruity with a touch of hops . Enjoy it chilled and savour its rich flavour with a goblet or chalice to appreciate its rich and complex flavours fully.

🍺 Tripel de Garre

Alcohol level by volume (ABV) of 11+ %

Tripel de Garre is a Belgian-style Tripel ale brewed by the Brouwerij De Garre in Bruges, Belgium.

This classic Belgian beer features a golden straw colour with citrus, banana and clove aromas. The taste is sweet and malty, with honey, caramel, and a hint of coriander . Enjoy this smooth yet complex Tripel alone or as part of a meal.

Frequently asked questions about beer in bruges

What beer do they drink in bruges.

Brugse Zot is a Belgian-style blond beer brewed in Bruges, Belgium. Many people in Bruges are proud of their local breweries and enjoy supporting them by drinking their beers. This beer has a unique story and branding that appeals to locals and tourists alike. The taste of Brugse Zot is well-regarded by beer enthusiasts. It is a Belgian Pale Ale, which is a style of beer that is popular in Belgium and around the world.

What is the strongest beer in Bruges?

Their strongest beer, with an impressive alcohol content of 11+ %, is not for the faint of heart. Tripel de Garre neer, on the other hand, is a more potent variant of beer that is only served in the brewery’s bar in Bruges.

How many beers are in Bruges?

There are over 300 beers available in Bruges. This is because Brugge is home to many large and small breweries, and many local bars and pubs offer a wide variety of Belgian beer styles on tap.

What is the oldest beer pub in Bruges?

Café Vlissinghe is the oldest beer pub in Bruges, dating back to 1515. It is located on a small street near the city centre and offers an impressive selection of beers and local dishes. The pub’s interior is cosy and inviting, filled with historical memorabilia that adds charm. The cafe also hosts live music performances on certain nights.

How many breweries are there in Bruges?

There are three working breweries that exist in Bruges! The Bourgogne des Flandres, De Halve Maan, and Fort Lapin. Bourgogne des Flandres is one of Belgium’s oldest continuously operating breweries, established in 1764. De Halve Maan is a well-known family-run brewery producing beer since 1856. Fort Lapin opened its doors more recently, in 2009; it specializes in brewing unique, experimental beers. Together, these three breweries offer visitors the best craft beers in Bruges!

How much is beer in Bruges?

Beer in Bruges is relatively inexpensive. A pint of domestic draught beer costs 4.00€, while a 12 oz bottle of imported beer also costs 4.00€.

wrapping up: Bruges beer tours

Travelling through Bruges, Belgium , is always a unique and memorable experience!

With its rich beer culture, hopping from brewery to brewery for a beer tour takes your trip to the next level.

Bruges’s 11 best beer tours span from charming local pubs to renowned modern breweries.

Whether you’re a craft brew master or just stepping into the craft beer scene, there’s something here for everyone to explore and enjoy.

🏆 We recommend the BEST OF BRUGES: HISTORY, CHOCOLATE & BEER TOUR as the best one available!

You can choose from guided tours of brewing history or venture out on your own to navigate the streets of this beautiful city.

From traditional Trappist ales to imaginative Belgian-American fusions, you will always find an authentic taste of Belgian beer culture during your travel to Bruges.

So grab a pint and cheers—because where else can you go than Bruges on a beer tour?

After all, the locals know best! Happy Travels! 😉

🏅 Scrolled down to the bottom? The most Exciting BEER TOURS that we recommend is the BRUGES BITES & SIGHTS – BELGIAN FOOD, BEER & A LITTLE BIT OF HISTORY with 82 glowing reviews. You can be sure you’ll have a great time!

BELGIUM TRAVEL PLANNING RESOURCES  

Getting to Belgium : Fly into one of the main international airports : Brussels Airport (BRU) or Charleroi Brussels South Airport (CRL). Take an international train to Brussels South Station. Or take a ferry to Dover or The Netherlands, then drive or take the train to Belgium.

Getting Around : For the major destinations, the train is by far the best option. You can book your train tickets here . If you’d like to visit smaller places, the most convenient way would be to rent a car. We always use Discover cars , they compare all the rental companies and give you the best rates.

Accommodation : Booking.com is the most popular accommodation platform in Belgium. It’s what I use every single time.

Guided tours : Use Get Your Guide or Viator to find fun tours in Brussels, Bruges, Ghent and Antwerp. Or Guruwalk to find free walking tours in multiple destinations.

Babs Rodrigus is a travel addict at heart and loves to explore her home country Belgium and the rest of the world – preferably with her wife and kids. She’s all about showing you the most mesmerising spots in this tiny European country and making you see how great it truly is.

When she’s not travelling, Babs loves to read, write, eat chocolate (hey, Belgian remember) and sing Frozen songs with her daughter.

Brewery visit 

Our brewery in the city centre of Bruges is one of the most visited breweries in Belgium. Discover its rich history during a visit. 

Discover the rich history of our family brewery

Our brewery has become one of the hotspots in Bruges, with more than 100.000 visitors annually. During a guided tour you’ll see what goes on behind the scenes of our family brewery. Our guides are happy to immerse you in the rich history of De Halve Maan. At some point during the tour, you’ll be able to soak in a spectacular 360° view over Bruges. 

The extended tour will leave you thirsty! No better solution than to end your visit with a well-deserved glass of beer. In fact, our brewery is the only place in the world where you can enjoy an unfiltered Brugse Zot or Straffe Hendrik. 

Book your visit

Classic tour

The journey begins in our brewing hall where all our beers are brewed. The tour continues and you’ll discover the many brewing installations that have been used over the past centuries. At our brewery's rooftop you can enjoy a 360° view over the city center of Bruges. At the end of your journey, we offer you an unfiltered Brugse Zot Blond, Brugse Zot Dubbel or Straffe Hendrik Tripel. 

Guided tour   

± 45 minutes   

Max 25 persons   

Including 1 beer

€ 16,00 p.p.*   

Available in NL, FR & ENG 

* Children < 6 years old: free / Children 7 - 15 years old: €8,50 

Please note that there are 220 steps during the tour of our brewery, these steps can be steep so please wear appropriate footwear. 

A tour for the true beer lovers. During our XL Tour you’ll get an additional tasting session with the guide. We'll let you enjoy different types of beer and teach you all best practices. The beers are served in the authentic cellars of the brewery. You'll taste three different beers and discover their rich flavours. 

Guided tour  

± 90 minutes  

Max 25 persons  

Including 3 beers 

€ 26,00 p.p.  

Only during the weekend

Available in NL & ENG

Please note that there are 220 steps during the tour of our brewery, these steps can be steep so please wear appropriate footwear.   

Groups and private tours

Group and private tours are available upon request. You can choose between a classic tour or the XL tour. Your personal guide will take you through the rich history of De Halve Maan and show you what goes on behind the scenes of our brewery. 

Request a group or private tour using the booking tool  or by sending an e-mail to [email protected] .

Online booking

Tickets can be booked online up to 24h before the tour. If you are too late to make a reservation, just drop by our shop, we often still have tickets for sale the day itself.

Accessibility 

Our brewery is located on “het Walplein”, in the city centre of Bruges. It's not far from the Bruges railway station (NMBS) and is easily accessible by bicycle or on foot.

Are you travelling by car? Sadly, our brewery doesn’t have a parking. There are several private and public parking facilities near us. Please take the mobility plan and parking fees into account.

All information on mobility and traffic can be found on the website  Brugge.be

Event venue rental

Located in the heart of Bruges is Brouwerij De Halve Maan, home to Brugse Zot, Straffe Hendrik and Blanche de Bruges. This is the story of a brewer’s family from Bruges who always believed in authentic beer from Bruges.

You must be 18 years of age or older to visit this website.

THE 10 BEST Bruges Beer Tastings & Brewery Tours

Beer tastings & tours in bruges.

• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Walking Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Beer Tastings & Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

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5. Drinks & Bites in Bruges Private Tour

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9. Private: Discover Bruges beers & brewery with chocolate pairing by a young local

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12. Private Bruges, Ghent Full-day trip by Mercedes from Paris

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Bruges Beer Tasting Tour terug naar infopagina

✓ Guided Beer Tasting Tour (3h) ✓ Discover the city, history and beers of Bruges ✓ Learn to taste beer with 5 regional beers ✓ All our guides speak English fluently

✓ No cancellation fee until 48h before

Bruges is one large open-air museum. Discover this medieval city which revolves around 25 tales of beers and brewing with a fascinating beer tour. 5 beer tastings of different beers and an official BeerWalk glass are included in the price.

To watch this video, please turn on the English subtitles.

Discover Bruges in 3 hours

In approximately three hours, you will travel through the ages from 1000 A.D. to the actual Bruges today. Start your beer walk at the Bruges Beer Museum and let the wonderful history of this charming town surprise you during this tour and beer tasting with guide.

The Beer History of Bruges

Bruges is well known for its secret hideways and amazing sites, but its world class beers which are steeped in history and tradition, are probably the best kept secret in town.

Beer Tastings at 5 different locations

The beer tastings include 5 incredible beers which are all connected to the periods and places you’ll discover.

Everyone welcome

Anyone who takes part can decide, at any time during the BeerWalk tour, to have one or more beer tastings replaced by a coffee or a soda of your choice. This way anyone can enjoy the beer stories and historic town visit.

Raving 5-star reviews

THE 10 BEST Bruges Beer Tastings & Brewery Tours

Beer tastings & tours in bruges.

• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Walking Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Beer Tastings & Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
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• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Beertasting Brugge

2. Hungry Mary's Famous Beer and Chocolate Tour - Bruges

3. BeerWalk Bruges (English guide)

4. Cheers to Bruges: A Beer Tasting Adventure

5. Drinks & Bites in Bruges Private Tour

6. Bruges Private Culinary Tour with 8 Tastings

7. Bruges Beer Tour with chocolate pairing by a young local

8. Self-Guided Pub Trail in Bruges with Online Pub Game

9. Private: Discover Bruges beers & brewery with chocolate pairing by a young local

10. Private Bruges Highlights & Hidden Gems Day trip from Paris by Minivan

11. Bruges Highlights & Hidden Gems Small-group from Paris by Minivan

12. Private Bruges, Ghent Full-day trip by Mercedes from Paris

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What travellers are saying.

• Beertasting Brugge
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• Hungry Mary's Famous Beer and Chocolate Tour - Bruges
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• Quality Guides

The brewery

Located in the heart of Bruges is Brouwerij De Halve Maan, home to our Brugse Zot. This is the story of a brewer’s family who always believed in authentic beer from Bruges.  

Our authentic family brewery

Every single drop of Brugse Zot is brewed in the city center of Bruges. Our family has been brewing on ‘Het Walplein’ for 6 generations now. Today, De Halve Maan is the last authentic family brewery in the city, and we can reflect on our rich history.  

The historic brewery has become an iconic spot in the city. We’re one of the most visited breweries in the country with visitors from all over the world!

About our brewery

Discover our rich history

Our brewery has become one of the hotspots in Bruges, with more than 100.000 visitors annually. During a guided tour you’ll see what goes on behind the scenes of our family brewery. Our guides are happy to immerse you in the rich history of De Halve Maan. At some point during the tour, you’ll be able to soak in a spectacular 360° view over Bruges. 

The extended tour will leave you thirsty! No better solution than to end your visit with a well-deserved glass of beer. In fact, our brewery is the only place in the world where you can enjoy an unfiltered Brugse Zot or Straffe Hendrik.

Book your visit

Visit our website

Halve Maan website

You must be 18 years of age or older to visit this website.

• • Nederlands
• • Portugues
• Online tickets
• Accessibility
• Practical info

ACCESSIBILITY

Information for visitors with a physical, visual or hearing disability.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

Opening hours, facilities, route description, train and bus connections and parking facilities.

Bruges Beer Experience is much more than just a museum! It is a must-visit for those who wish to experience the most fascinating aspects of beer!

A fresh combination of interactivity, innovative technologies and the stimulation of all senses! Taste, smell and touch the ingredients. Play the quiz and discover the unique collection and numerous topics relating to beer...

Don’t forget to visit our unique bar and shop!

Feel the experience!

Do you have a question or is something unclear? Click here for the most frequently asked questions and the corresponding answers.

Opening hours

Open seven days a week Closed on Christmas and New Year’s day Museum: 10 am to 6 pm Entry until 1 hour prior to closing Bar / Shop: 10 am to 6.30 pm

Smell, taste and touch the ingredients of beer and discover the wonderful world of brewing in an interactive manner.

Try our 16 draught beers while enjoying a view of Bruges’ Market Square. Free entry!

4 beers of your choice = € 10.00

Treat your friends, family or yourself to a unique gift.

Free entry!

The Bruges Beer Guide: Discovering The City’s Best Beers, Bars + Breweries

Hunting out the best beer bars in Bruges? Don’t miss this Bruges beer guide – complete with the best bars and brewery tours and some handy tips for navigating the complex world of Belgian beers.

Beer is synonymous with Bruges. Turn every corner in this fairytale city and you’re confronted with the evidence – a beer bar here, a beer bar there, a brewery – not to mention an annual beer festival each February that sees Bruges showing off the very best of its beer culture. 

The first time I visited Bruges, I didn’t quite expect the vast about of choice when it came to beer tastings, tours and bars. That’s not to say that I didn’t embrace it with gusto: I set out to discover as much as I could about Brugge’s beer scene – a passion that has lasted through all my subsequent visits. 

Setting out to explore the beer in Bruges is a pleasure any way you go about it – but this is also a place where a little bit of knowledge can go a long way.

Want to know the difference between a farmhouse ale and a Dubbel? What about Kwak? Read ahead my friends. 

PS: Also looking for more Bruges inspiration? Check out my Bruges City Guide – The Best Things to do and Places to See in the City.

Belgian Beer 101: Handy Facts to Know Before Taking on Bruges Beer Scene

Right, before we set off to drink all of the ridiculously good beer we can lay our hands on in Brugge’s bars and breweries, here’s a quick rundown of some of the common terms you’ll come across and what they mean. 

Trappist Ales

There are plenty of trappist beers in Bruges – but what are they? Trappist ales are tightly regulated and have to follow set criteria to call themselves a trappist ale. 

The first, and the biggest one is that the beer has to be fermented and bottle conditioned within the walls of a monastery by, or under the supervision of, the monks. 

The second is that the brewery can’t be run for profit – but only to support the monastery and its work in society. 

Abbey Beers

Abbey beers by contrast, are ales that have been brewed in the style of traditional Trappist ales but that do not fulfil the requirements to label themselves as a Trappist ale. 

What’s the Difference Between Dubbel, Tripel and Quadrupel Beers?  

As soon as you start drinking Belgian beers, you’ll notice that many beers are marked as Dubbel, Tripel or Quadrupel – but what does that actually mean? 

Common sense would tell you that it refers solely to the strength of the beer – so you’d expect a Quadrupel to be double the strength of a Dubbel. Guess what? Common sense is wrong. Well, kind of. I’ll walk you through the differences. 

Dubbel is a style of beer, generally at ABV 6% to 8.5%, dark in colour and toasted, malty and spiced tasting notes. They’re yeasty and complex – the kind of beers you either love or hate. 

A tripel by contrast should be lighter – golden in colour, clouded in appearance with hoppier notes and a smoother taste.

They are stronger but the malt used is Pilsner, so they have a completely different flavour profile to Dubbels, with citrussy aromas. Strength-wise, they can knock between ABV 8.5% to over 10% – let’s just say that you will know about it if you knock too many of them back in one go.

So what about the quadrupel then? 

Well, unlike the dubbels and the tripels, which have been traditionally brewed by monks for centuries, the quadrupel is relatively recent. In fact it’s not even Belgian. I know, I’m clutching my pearls and simultaneously questioning everything I know about life. 

The quadrupel aims to unite the flavours and tasting notes of dubbels with elements of the tripel. They are strong though – pretty much always punching in at ABVs of over 10%. 

White beers are meant to be refreshing – served chilled, with tasting notes of christmas spice emphasised by the citrus peel served with the drink. 

Lambic Beers 

Lambic beers are another beer you don’t come across outside of the world of Belgian beer. They use spontaneous fermentation thanks to unique microorganisms found in Belgium’s Senne Valley – breweries leave them in large open vats to develop their unmistakable tang.

Sharp and sour, they’re matured for long periods of time to soften the taste and blended with fruit (often cherries), hence why they frequently are described as having a sour cherry taste. 

In fact, Flanders has always excelled at making sour ales – not everyone loves them but their sharp fruity taste are unlike beers brewed elsewhere in the world. Styles include Flanders Red, Guezes, Brown ales and the aforementioned Lambics. 

Brewery Tours in Bruges

If you’re wondering where to drink beer in Bruges, you can hardly do better than going to an actual brewery to kick things off.

De Halve Maan 

De Halve Maan (The Half Man) is the most famous Bruges brewery tour. 

The frequent tours are held in several languages – talking you through the history of the brewery and the brewing process for their unique beers. 

The guides are funny, personable and hugely informative, leading you through the warren of rooms and passages that make up the brewery. They’re relatively comprehensive (45 minutes) and include a sampling of the beers too. 

De Halve Maan is a popular Brugge brewery option, so I’d recommend taking the first tour of the day (if you can stomach it – I’m sure that you can) or going as late as possible when all the day-trippers have set off home. 

Incidentally, when people say that beer flows through Bruges’ streets, they’re not exaggerating. The Half Man Brewery recently installed a beer pipe to transport beer from the brewery to its bottling plant on the outskirts of the city. 

Bourgogne des Flandres 

The historic beer of Bourgogne des Flandres recently moved back into the city to a new microbrewery in central Bruges and with it came a cool little Bruges brewery tour. 

The tour itself takes you tells you about the hops and brewing process that results in Bourgogne des Flandres’ traditional rounded dark and fruity beer – you can even learn how to tap the beer digitally too. Once you’re done, round it off with a free glass of the good stuff in their bar. 

The brewery tours are interesting and the beers are tasty but my personal experience was kind of marred by the rude service at the bar. The beer was tasty though. 

Want more? Book onto a private Bruges Beer Brewery tour visiting the city’s breweries with a local expert. 

The Best Beer Bars in Bruges

 ’t brugs beertje.

Is ’t Brugs Beertje the best bar in Bruges? According to many, the answer is yes. On the face of it, it’s nothing particularly special – a small pub on a cobbled street on one of the quieter roads of Bruges.

Go inside and you start to get an idea of what is so special about it. Every wall, every surface is covered in beer-related paraphernalia, scribbled on by the thousands of punters who’ve patronised the bar at some point or another. 

That’s before you even get to the beer – with over 300 Belgian Beers to choose from, there’s guaranteed to be something to suit your taste. It’s a real highlight on any beer tasting in Bruges odyssey. 

The Beer Wall at 2Be

Chances are you’ve already seen or heard about the infamous Bruges beer wall at 2be bar. Enter the cavernous doorway to be confronted with a huge array of beer bottles (over 1250) and glasses all stacked up row by row on a long wall. 

Don’t just go and gawp though, as you’d expect, the bar serves an extensive array of beers and the spacious beer garden is smack-bang canalside. Great beer and gorgeous views – I won’t blame you if you don’t want to leave. 

Browhuis Corsendonk 

This small gem of a beer bar in Bruges, completely off the tourist track, may sport some rather odd kitsch decorations (on my last visit, there were puppet style witches dotted about the place) – but the beer is stellar.

Affiliated with the brewery of the same name – this is the place to go and drink Corsendonk.

Try the Corsendonk Pater – a dark brown ale with a creamy head and notes of dried fruit. If that’s not your style, the Corsendonk Angus is a light golden ale with a cidery aroma and a crisp finish. 

Langestraat 104, 8000 Brugge, Belgium

Le Trappiste

Another Bruges beer bar favourite, Le Trappiste sits in a rather gloomy cellar – pouring out their extensive range of Belgian Beers (including more than a few rare finds). The candlelit bar makes an atmospheric setting for sipping on your beer and it’s surprisingly reasonable given its popularity. 

Bierbrasserie Cambrinus

It’s not flash and it’s not stylish but Bierbrasserie Cambrinus draws in the crowds. Why? Well this pub in Bruges just so happens to serve very good beer alongside very good food. The beer list is large enough that it’s a bit daunting but is great value – if you really struggle, the staff are always on hand to make a few recommendations. 

It might be difficult to find (you’ll have to keep your eyes firmly on the map to get it right) but De Garre is another Bruges beer gem. The Tripel De Garre is the biggest draw here – weighing in at a whopping 11% this sweet but strong beer packs such a punch that drinkers are only allowed to order three in any visit. 

‘t Poatersgat

‘t Poatersgat has a slightly too-cool-for-school vibe – but get past that and you will discover a bar in Bruges with a large range of speciality beers in a pleasant space. 

Must-Try Brugge Beer Experiences

Bruges Beer Experience 

Want to really get into the nitty gritty of Belgian beer? Head to the Bruges Beer Museum. 

Set off on one of their interactive self-guided museum tours to learn about the history of beer in Bruges – there’s a LOT of information on the first floor – so much so that you could spend hours walking around before you even head up to the second.

The second floor is a more interactive, focused on the equipment, ingredients and process used to make beer. Once you’re finished you get to put your knowledge to the test by taking your pick of draft beers (some of which you can only get in the museum itself) to round off the experience. 

This laid-back museum also doubles up as a cool little beer drinking spot as you can opt to forgo the tour and simply sample their extensive collection of beers. 

The Bottle Shop

With all this beer drinking, you’re pretty much guaranteed to want to bring a few Belgian beers home with you. The shelves speak for themselves – over 600 beers alongside their accompanying glasses so you can shop your favourites and savour them at home. 

Where to Drink Beer in Bruges: Map 

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Read More Bruges and Belgium Travel Guides 

• Cool Things to do in Bruges – What to See + What to Skip 
• Brugge Weekend Break Itinerary
• Day Trip to Bruges – How to Make the Most of Your Trip
• Where to Stay in Bruges
• 10 Stylish Bruges Airbnbs for Your Trip
• Bruges Tourist Map – Simply Save and Go
• Europe Packing List
• Antwerp: Cool Places to Visit on your Belgian City Break

I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

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Beers with Mandy

August 8, 2022

The Ultimate Beer Lover’s Travel Guide to Bruges, Belgium

Bruges, Brugge, or Brugs however you want to spell it this charming city is one of the most unique and romantic in Belgium. Romantic for couples visiting, and romantic for those in love with one of Belgium’s most lauded exports, Belgian beer!

From panoramic views of the city at its iconic belfry to cozy corners in bars and restaurants around its famed canals, there is just something endlessly appealing about this place. No wonder I’ve visited a handful of times. These are the best restaurants, bars, and things to do in the medieval city of Bruges.

How to Get the Best Views of Bruges 

The most iconic tourist destination in Bruges is the Belfry of Bruges. The 26 story clock tower is the centerpiece of the town’s main square. By following an (extremely!) narrow set of 366 winding stairs visitors see several different views of the city from several landings. Finally, once climbers reach the top of the tower there is a full 360 degree view of Bruges and the surrounding towns. Plus, there is access to see the 47 bells of Bruges up close. 

However, if a vertical hike doesn’t sound like your ideal way to spend an hour, I suggest the second best view of Bruges: from the tower at the De Halve Maan brewery! Rather than climbing straight up to the tower, the tour winds through many rooms and sections of the brewery with a few sets of stairs mixed in. As you travel slowly upward, you’ll learn about the beer making process as well as the history of the legendary brewery. For example, De Halve Maan claims the first woman brewmaster at a commercial brewery in Belgium among their many innovative employees. 

Once you get to the top of the tower there is time to take in the 360 degree views of Bruges, including a view of the clock tower itself. Then, the group makes its way back down through the brewery and out to the bar where you can sip a free beer (included in the tour price). Definitely a more relaxing way to see the views of the city if you ask me. 

Where to Eat in Bruges: Restaurants & Cafes 

It’s a small city, but Bruges still has restaurants for every occasion. The restaurants in the main square are okay for breakfast or dessert, but try to avoid these tourist traps! You’ll find more interesting food at better prices anywhere else in the city. 

Brasserie Cambrinus 

I make it a point to get to Cambrinus for a meal and a few beers here every time I come through Bruges. I struggled with whether to categorize it as a bar or a restaurant. Even though the lacquered wooden bar is always ready for you to hang around with a beer or two, the massive menu swayed me to go with the restaurant. 

The specialties range from shareable snacks to full entrees with sides and desserts. It’s best to stick to the Belgian classics instead of their specialty dishes (the Carbonade is a savory warming masterpiece…skip the T bone steak, etc.) here. I make sure to have at least one serving of the cheese croquettes every time I’m in Bruges. The serving sizes are quite large here, so don’t order appetizers as if they’re “small plates” or “tapas” in the U.S. 

Like any good Belgian bar, each of the more than one hundred beers listed on the menu will come served in its proper matching glass or goblet. Which is why the long bar has a seemingly endless collection of glasses hanging above it.

Den Gouden Harynck

For a fancy night out or a special occasion, Den Gouden Harynck is one of the best places in Bruges. Tucked behind an ivy-covered facade on a cobblestoned side street, this restaurant has a quiet elegance that is relaxing and welcoming. It won a Michelin star in 2019, but it’s not quite as expensive as other Michelin options nearby. A three course menu will run you 75 euros. 

The food is French inspired and features high quality Belgian ingredients. White tablecloths give the dining room a formal atmosphere without being too stiff. 

De Gastro  

This brasserie puts out top-notch Belgian classics like mussels and Flemish carbonnade alongside a thoughtfully curated list of wines and a solid selection of craft beers. 

The menu at De Gastro has specials that change with the season. It is a perfect location to get a little adventurous with what you order and discover authentic Belgian cooking. The rabbit in beer and plum sauce is unforgettable! 

To taste a little of everything, there is an option for a pre-fixed menu of three courses for 40 euro. If you aren’t sure about a dish just ask your server for advice. The staff is friendly and more attentive than you’ll find in many Belgian restaurants.

The ambiance is classy and chic but still casual. It works equally well as a spot for a date night or as a quick bite to eat. If you can, try to swing a seat by the window for a view of the canal and excellent people watching as the surrounding cafes and bars fill up. 

The Best Bars in Bruges 

‘t brugs beertje .

My #1 haunt in Bruges, possibly all of Belgium. The ambiance is quiet and casual with a couple regulars tucked in the corners and travelers lining the bar. Daisy, the original owner of ‘t Brugs Beertje, is incredible with lots of local recommendations and stories to tell. She handed over the reins to Dries in 2017 who kept the tradition of being very welcoming and conversational going. His dog, Simba, may not be a bear like the one emblazoned on the doors and glasses of the bar, but he’s still a bit of a mascot. He’ll sit by the door to welcome visitors and keep a watchful, yet adorable, eye on the street outside. 

There are more than 300 beers available here. If there’s a specific Belgian beer you are hoping to try, this bar is the place to find it. On my first visit to ‘t Brugs Beertje I ordered Rodenbach Character Rouge and it was definitely an unforgettable beer. (It’s more widely available now and if you see it, it’s worth the investment.) 

Once you’re done taking in the enormous menu and all of the special notes and custom illustrations on it, you can turn your attention to the walls for hours. A collection of beer memorabilia, long-retired glassware, vintage coasters, and a quirky collection of beer and bear related trinkets fill the space. Every time you visit there is something new to discover, that is if you’re not distracted by conversation with fellow international travelers looking for a memorable beer. This place attracts beer lovers from all over the globe.

De Garre 

To get to De Garre you need to take a trip down a narrow cobbled walkway and look for a doorway on your left. The posters for Kwak, Val-Dieu, and Gouden Carolus plastered on the entrance are a dead giveaway that you’ve arrived. Step inside to a charming two-level bar filled with locals hiding out from the touristy destinations in the main square. Exposed brick walls and a dark wood bar come together with printed tablecloths for a cozy, off-beat place for a beer, or three.

It is all but mandatory to order the signature Tripel, because it is brewed exclusively for the bar. The De Garre Tripel comes in a squatty wide-brimmed glass which is also exclusive to this beer. (As of 2021, they also offer bottles of the Tripel for takeaway.)

Beyond the eponymous Tripel the menu lists dozens of beers to choose from as well as classic Belgian pub fare. My recommendation for noshing is the house-made pate that has a light texture but is still full flavor. It comes in a large serving but it’s so good that I could happily eat two orders myself. There is also a variety of cured meats and cheeses to choose from, in case soft, spreadable cubes of pâté don’t strike your fancy. 

2be (aka The Beer Wall)

As the entryway, better known as the beer wall, may lead you to suspect this location is a bit touristy. The Beer Wall was designed as a photo opportunity long before the days of Instagram. So, many of the beer labels have seen better days after years in the sun. However, that’s no reason to avoid 2be .

The location is right on the canal and has a dozen beers on tap to choose from. There is also a small collection of bottles including Deus , the beer that pops and pours like Champagne. This is not a restaurant but there are some pre-packaged cheese and meats to eat out on the patio as the boats go by on the canal.  

The Best Breweries for Beer Lovers in Bruges 

Bourgogne des Flandres

In my opinion, this is the best place to sit along the water and drink Belgian beer. The deck out behind the brewery is close to a boat stop so the energy always feels lively. This is also one of the few places I’ve found in Bruges with a good beer flight! If you’re with someone trying Belgian beer for the first time, this is a great place to stop and let them get to know all of the styles. Especially since the Flanders Red, the signature beer here, is a sour, which can be a little challenging for some palates. 

The tour here is extensive with high-tech simulations and a walk through of the brewing process. They also include a free beer at the end of the tour. 

I think a highlight of a trip to Bruges is an afternoon out on this terrace so make sure to take note of the hours! This brewery closes earlier than most places in the city at 18:30 (4:30pm). This is also the same time the boats shut down for the day.

De Halve Maan 

It’s one massive brewery campus, but it makes two different brands of beer. De Halve Mann brews Zot, which is basically the mass market lager of Bruges (it’s a belgian blond) as well as Straffe Hendrik beers, which are more traditional abbey style ales. 

As mentioned before the tour here includes one of the best views in the city as well as a large helping of Belgian beer history. This does make for a long tour, if you don’t have an hour or so to spare for the full walk around the brewery the taproom and courtyard are still worth a visit. They’re relaxing and the bathrooms here are large, clean, and well lit. (Can’t forget about the bathroom on a day of beer tasting around the city!)

What to See and Do in Bruges 

Minnewaterpark.

This large public park has Minnewater lake as the centerpiece. Beyond the well maintained walking paths and tranquil views the park acts as the roosting place for the city’s iconic swans. A trip down to the park feels like a step back in time. There are medieval wells and stone fountains and the calm green of the park feels centuries away from the hustle and bustle in the main square. 

Pralinette Chocolates 

In a city with at least a dozen chocolate shops, it’s hard to decide which one is best. I find Pralinette to be the winner of best chocolate shop in Bruges. The chocolate maker himself is often the one behind the counter, helping customers select his best creations. 

Furthermore, once you’ve selected your treats (may I suggest the Gran Marnier truffle!) you can enjoy them on the back patio overlooking the canal. I brought home a couple dozen chocolates from Pralinette as gifts and they held up through the journey. Even the intricately shaped chocolate chickens made it home unscathed. 

The Church of Our Lady Bruges

There are several stunning churches in the city, but The Church of Our Lady of Bruges is the only one with a statue carved by Michelangelo. In fact, this is the only statue by Michelangelo to leave Italy during his lifetime. It is a depiction of the Madonna and child and is the biggest draw to the church. However, the collection at Our Lady of Bruges is well documented and takes visitors on an art history journey of the region. One of the highlights for me was a look into the painted graves under the church itself. 

Where to Stay in Bruges 

When in Bruges the best lodging is a charming bed and breakfast. There are dozens throughout the canal-laden town. I have two recommendations: The Canal Deluxe and Hotel Bonifacius. 

Both B&Bs sit right on one of the town’s canals. Having your morning coffee while watching the famed swans swim by is one of those only-in-Bruges experiences. 

The Canal Deluxe is in the Northern part of town. This area is a little quieter, so if you’re looking to sleep in or relax outside with a book, I recommend it. This relaxing can be done on the outdoor patio where you can also take a plate from the vast breakfast spread served every morning.

The Hotel Bonifacius is located right in the middle of it all, just steps from the Church of Our Lady Bruges. This makes it easy to pop back into the room to freshen up, or drop off your bags of chocolates and treats. The breakfast room is located right on the canal and I loved sipping a mimosa while watching the boats go by. There is definitely more foot traffic in this area. The rooftop deck often buzzes with the voices of tourists below on the Boniface Bridge, but it’s not a loud interruption.

Reader Interactions

August 10, 2023 at 4:20 pm

Hey Mandy. Don’t know if you’re still involved with your tastings but my lovely wife and I will be in Bruges the week of 14 August 2023. We read your reviews and will be going to some of your recommended sites as they look great. Thanks for your column and videos and hope you continue!

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THE 10 BEST Bruges Beer Tastings & Brewery Tours

Beer tastings & tours in bruges.

• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Walking Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Beer Tastings & Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Beertasting Brugge

2. Hungry Mary's Famous Beer and Chocolate Tour - Bruges

3. BeerWalk Bruges (English guide)

4. Cheers to Bruges: A Beer Tasting Adventure

5. Drinks & Bites in Bruges Private Tour

6. Bruges Private Culinary Tour with 8 Tastings

7. Bruges Beer Tour with chocolate pairing by a young local

8. Self-Guided Pub Trail in Bruges with Online Pub Game

9. Private: Discover Bruges beers & brewery with chocolate pairing by a young local

10. Private Bruges Highlights & Hidden Gems Day trip from Paris by Minivan

11. Bruges Highlights & Hidden Gems Small-group from Paris by Minivan

12. Private Bruges, Ghent Full-day trip by Mercedes from Paris

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

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The 21 best Bruges, Belgium breweries and craft beer

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7 2be shop / the beerwall / 2be bar, 8 the republic, 9 comptoir des arts, 10 duvelorium belgian beer bar, 11 bruges beer experience, 12 restaurant spinola, 13 beers yesterday's world - brugge, 14 2be shop / the beerwall / 2be bar, 15 groot vlaenderen.

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17 bauhaus bar, 18 bieratelier brugge, 19 the bottle shop, 20 the druid's cellar, 21 de bierbistro, top searches in bruges, popular road trips from bruges, what's the weather like in bruges.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Bruges for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

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Bourgogne des Flandres

The real taste of Bruges Red-brown beer with a rich, creamy finish

Bourgogne des Flandres occupies a very special place in the Belgian beer landscape. It is a typical example of the Flemish beer blending tradition with old and young beer being mixed judiciously to achieve a perfect balance.

Bourgogne des Flandres Pure is brewed on site in the loft and blended with lambic from Timmermans Brewery. This lambic has aged for over eight months in wooden barrels. The result is a surprising red-brown beer with a low alcohol content and a very rich finish.

Visit the brewery & distillery and meet the brewer in the loft!

After 65 years, Bourgogne des Flandres has returned to the inner city of Bruges with its own brewery and distillery. Explore the brewery and breathe in the smell of malt and fresh hops in the loft. See how the beer is brewed with your own eyes! Discover how we make Genever spirit out of our delicious beers.

Our brewery and the Ale House are accessible to visitors from Tuesday to Sunday from 10.30 am to 6.30 pm (last visit entry: 5.00pm). During bank & school holidays, particularly in July & August, open 7/7. We apply the latest covid-19 measures.

Visit the brewery

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Read more about our new beers: De Blonden Os and de Bruinen Os.

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A brewing dynasty has left its mark on the brewing tradition

Bourgogne des Flandres: how a beer returned to its home town of Bruges


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Brasserie de Waterloo BVBA

Kartuizerinnenstraat 6 8000 Brugge BE 0839 809 964

Bourgogne des Flandres Finest Brewery Shop, in the heart of Bruges.

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TOURS & ACTIVITIES IN BRU GES

Best of Bruges: History, Chocolate & Beer Tour

In english , €49 (€15 for kids).

History, chocolate & beer! | 3 hours | €49 | Book now

All the best Bruges has to offer in one complete package: History, chocolate & beer!

Meeting point

We meet by the statue in the middle of the main square of Bruges. Look out for the red umbrella!

About the tour

Experience the best of Bruges on this three-in-one walking tour. Meet your guide at the main square for an introduction to the history of Bruges. Next we take you to a top-rated chocolatier, where you’ll learn about Belgian chocolate-making traditions and will try a delicious praline.

We continue on our history-themed walking tour of the city’s UNESCO-listed, medieval center. Finally, we end the tour in the most romantic brewery in town, Bourgogne de Flandres, for a visit and beer tasting.

What's Included

Chocolate demonstration & tasting

Brewery visit & beer tasting

Historical tour of medieval Bruges

Professional guide

Places we visit

Market Square | Belfry | Gruuthuse Palace | St. John's Hospital | Chocolatier Home Sweet Home | Brewery | Smallest Street | Church of Our Lady | Bridge of Love | Dijver | Rosary Quay | Fish Market | Burg Square | Bourgogne de Flandres

Number of participants

The size of the group is limited to a maximum of 24 participants.

Adult (+16 years): €49

Child (5-15 years): €15

Infant (0-4 years): free

Good to know

Also book our evening tour to visit a different part of Bruges and complete your introduction to the city.

See you soon for a legendary time with us in Bruges, Brussels, Ghent & Antwerp!

Slide title

The level of knowledge was impressive. Our guide was also a good story teller, and had a way to include everyone in the group. This is a must if you visit Brugge.

  More Guruwalk reviews

Lavigna was friendly and knowledgeable about the history of Bruges, which was really informative. I would highly recommend this company and tour to anyone visiting Bruges!

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Absolutely loved this tour! My partner and I were guided by Lavigna and her canine companion.

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“The first time I tried this company, I was hooked. Everything was so fabulous and easy. I’ll never go back to anyone else.”

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Tours by legends for legends

Legends vzw - Legends Experiences bv, Sasplein 12, 8000 Brugge

VAT: BE0607.943.144 - BE0800.649.183

THE 10 BEST Bruges Beer Tastings & Brewery Tours

Beer tastings & tours in bruges.

• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Walking Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Beer Tastings & Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Beertasting Brugge

2. Hungry Mary's Famous Beer and Chocolate Tour - Bruges

3. BeerWalk Bruges (English guide)

4. Cheers to Bruges: A Beer Tasting Adventure

5. Drinks & Bites in Bruges Private Tour

6. Bruges Private Culinary Tour with 8 Tastings

7. Bruges Beer Tour with chocolate pairing by a young local

8. Self-Guided Pub Trail in Bruges with Online Pub Game

9. Private: Discover Bruges beers & brewery with chocolate pairing by a young local

10. Private Bruges Highlights & Hidden Gems Day trip from Paris by Minivan

11. Bruges Highlights & Hidden Gems Small-group from Paris by Minivan

12. Private Bruges, Ghent Full-day trip by Mercedes from Paris

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Before Luke Combs plays in front of the 'best fans' for his Milwaukee concerts this week, he tours Miller Brewery and even shotguns a beer

B efore Luke Combs kicks off his "Growin' Up and Gettin' Old" tour in Milwaukee this week, he went on another kind of tour. One that is quintessentially Brew City.

Combs, one of country music's biggest stars, is playing two shows at American Family Field : One Friday and another Saturday. But ahead of that, he took a tour of the Miller Brewery . And, we got to tag along.

Yes, he was every bit as kindhearted, down-to-earth and genuine as he seems. And yes, he shotgunned a beer just like he does on stage. Except this time, he was hanging out on a brewhouse rooftop with the iconic giant red Miller sign and the Milwaukee Brewers' ballpark as his backdrop.

Get daily updates on the Packers during the season.

Not only did Combs — a longtime Miller Lite fan and years-long partner — see where the magic happens, he also checked out the specialty packaging on cases and cans that's coming out in honor of his blockbuster tour.

"It's just surreal, you know?" Combs told the Journal Sentinel. "I feel like I get to live so many amazing, surreal moments. And, I'm really thankful for that for sure. It's crazy. It's crazy."

Here's what we learned about Combs' tour and what he got into on the Miller tour. And, how about his eight Academy of Country Music Awards nominations that were announced earlier this week? We asked him about those, too.

Luke Combs talks about his 'Growin' Up and Gettin' Old' tour and why he's kicking it off in the Midwest

A or A+ shows don't cut it for Combs. He's shooting for A++.

"I try to do everything I can do to take care of my voice, take care of myself, make sure that we're doing everything we can," Combs said. "People that come are the only reason we get to do what we do. Putting on an A++ show is really important to me."

About to embark on his 25-date stadium tour, he's excited — and "a little nervous."

"You feel like you're standing at the bottom of a mountain and you're looking at the top a little bit," he said.

But after last year's "Luke Combs World Tour," he said he feels more prepared for what's ahead of him.

"We've played everywhere all over the world," Combs said. "But, the Midwest, it feels like home to me. So, good place to start it."

HOW TO AVOID TRAFFIC: Luke Combs concerts could cause delays on I-94 this weekend

Combs, who grew up in North Carolina, hadn't been anywhere close to Milwaukee when he started his music career — his first plane ride came at age 25. But, he remembers his earlier stops up here fondly.

He opened for Blake Shelton at Summerfest in 2018 and made an appearance at Farm Aid at Alpine Valley Music Theatre in 2019.

"The Midwest is like the best fans in the world," Combs said. "I mean, honestly. People probably say that all the time."

But, that doesn't mean pulling out of the driveway Tuesday night wasn't hard after the "amazing" time he spent with his "awesome" wife Nicole and their two sons — Tex and Beau — these past few months. Fortunately, he won't have to miss his other half too long. She'll be headed up this way this weekend.

What will always make it onto Combs' setlist this time around? "The songs that people would expect," Combs shared.

"Playing all the hits," he said. "That's why people are there, and I want to give them what they want."

But, each night of the tour will have a different vibe.

Combs' opening acts Friday — in the order they'll hit the stage — are the Wilder Blue, Charles Wesley Godwin and Cody Jinks.

"Friday's more in the Americana, singer-songwriter world," Combs said. "So, our set reflects that a little bit. But, obviously, still playing all the hits."

Saturday's openers will be Colby Acuff, Drew Parker, Mitchell Tenpenny and Jordan Davis.

"Saturday night is more mainstream, Top 40 country stuff, which is what I do, really," Combs said.

Combs loves watching Jinks and Davis perform — they keep him honest, he said — and he knows they're going to kick some you know what.

The first opener will start at 5:45 p.m. Friday and Saturday, with gates opening at 5 p.m.

The parking lots will open at 3 p.m. Friday and 2:30 p.m. Saturday. Tailgating will be permitted. Give yourself plenty of time to drive in and get through security.

There also will be a "Bootleggers Tailgate Party" at 3 p.m. Saturday with two up-and-comers picked by Combs and Nashville-based concert series Whiskey Jam: Ryan Larkins and Graham Barham. It'll take place at Am Fam Field's Third Base Plaza, and will be free to attend for Combs concert ticketholders, with food and drinks available to purchase.

Luke Combs' love for Miller Lite and his visit to Miller Brewery

After getting into Milwaukee Wednesday morning, Combs hung out at the Brewers stadium for a couple of hours, worked out, then was off to the Miller Brewery.

How long has Combs been a fan of Miller Lite? "Forever, probably."

"My dad's been drinking it for a long time," Combs said. "It was always around the house."

If his music career never worked out, he said, he would still be sporting a Columbia fishing shirt and drinking a Miller Lite somewhere in the world.

"That's what I would be doing anyways," he said. "So, I really wanted to go after things that I was already passionate about that felt natural and authentic to me. So, I'm very thankful for (Molson Coors) being receptive to have me on board. I feel super lucky."

Sporting a Brewers Barrelman hat, Combs and his team walked into a conference room on the brewery's complex Wednesday. He was met by a small group of longtime brewery employees and other Molson Coors staffers. The beer cases and cans with his new specialty packaging were displayed on tables.

The design features a ribbon that says "Beer Never Broke My Heart" wrapped in between the tuning pegs of a guitar. Combs' name is at the top of the headstock.

LUKE COMBS IN MILWAUKEE: Country superstar introduces heartbreaking new baseball-tinged song at American Family Field

After everyone went around the room introducing themselves, they were instructed to suit up in PPE — yellow safety vests, glasses, hard hats, toe caps and headsets.

On Combs' VIP tour of the brewery, he got a first-hand — and at times, hands-on — look at the operations with facts and history lessons along the way.

The first stop was a packaging plant, where Combs met machinist Jeff Malecki who has "But they ain't seen us together" from Combs' song "Forever After All" tattooed across his arm.

The two shook hands and got a picture together. That would become a reoccurring scene throughout Combs' visit.

It seemed like every employee who crossed paths with Combs received a handshake. And, if they wanted a photo or autograph, they got those, too, without any hesitation.

In the warehouse, Combs saw cases with the specialty packaging sliding out of a machine — he pulled his phone out to document that — and stacks of those cases getting carried off on a pallet via forklift.

At one point, Combs stood in front of what looked like a mountain of the cases. "Get this one," he said to a photographer as he hugged the cases as far as his arms would stretch.

Later, he'd get to snag one of the cans right off of a quick-moving line.

He got a taste of that and a few different brewery roles, including one that involved flipping a cardboard box filled with unconstructed cases into place. A few cases snuck out the back, but not too shabby for a first-timer.

"Thanks for letting me do that," Combs said to the workers as he shook their hands. "Thanks for letting me be in the way."

Combs also tried his hand at adding hops, one of which was liquid. "Have y'all seen 'Superbad'?" Combs asked with a bucket of hops in hand.

It reminded him of the scene when McLovin was trying to buy booze at a liquor store and said to the cashier: "You know, I heard they recently decided to add more hops to it."

Toward the conclusion of the tour, Combs said he had a "truly amazing" time. But, his favorite part had to be the grand finale.

He got to go up on a brewhouse rooftop with striking views of the city, the home of the Brewers and that big red Miller sign.

Up there is where he shotgunned a beer in under 5 seconds, and had the honor of sampling an exclusive maturation stock that not many get to try.

"To be standing up here is really a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity," Combs said.

How about those eight ACM Awards nominations

The 59th Academy of Country Music Awards nominations were announced earlier this week. Combs leads the nominations with eight , including entertainer of the year, male artist of the year, album of the year, song of the year, single of the year and music event of the year.

"It's really awesome," he said. "Always surprising, I think ... In a lot of ways, it feels like I've been doing this a lifetime. And, in a lot of ways, I feel like I've been doing it for six months. So, I feel like sometimes I'm so conflicted with knowing what to feel or think ... It's an honor. It's my wildest dreams coming true. So, I'm a very lucky guy every day."

A 2024 win via Combs nomination for entertainer of the year would clinch the coveted triple crown award, which consists of an entertainer of the year win plus wins in an act's respective new artist (male, female, duo, or group) and artist (male, female, duo or group) categories, a USA TODAY report said.

The event will air on Prime Video and the Amazon Music channel on Twitch live from Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas, on May 16.

Piet Levy of the Journal Sentinel staff and USA TODAY contributed to this report.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Before Luke Combs plays in front of the 'best fans' for his Milwaukee concerts this week, he tours Miller Brewery and even shotguns a beer