Amsterdam: Dutch Craft Beer Tasting with cheese and snacks

If you’re on the hunt for a lively, affordable activity to understand Amsterdam’s growing craft beer scene, this Dutch Craft Beer Tasting might just hit the spot. Hosted by Brew Bus Amsterdam B.V., this 1-hour tasting offers a relaxed yet engaging way to sample local brews, enjoy some traditional snacks, and learn a bit about the city’s brewing culture.

What makes this experience appealing? For starters, the enthusiastic guide truly brings the event to life with stories about the beers and breweries, making each sip more meaningful. Plus, the tasting includes five different beers, paired with Dutch cheese, sausage, and nuts, adding a flavorful local touch.

On the flip side, since the tour is relatively short and centered around a specific location inside ClinkNOORD, it might not satisfy those craving a comprehensive brewery tour or a full-day adventure. Still, for travelers seeking a fun, casual intro to Amsterdam’s craft beer scene, this experience hits the mark.

Designed for adventurous beer lovers or curious visitors looking for an authentic, social activity, this tasting suits those who want a taste of local culture without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• Location: Central Amsterdam, inside ClinkNOORD near Amsterdam Central Station.
• Duration & Timing: About 1 hour; check availability for specific start times.
• Price: $28 per person — a reasonable fee for five beers, snacks, and expert commentary.
• Experience Level: Ideal for both seasoned beer enthusiasts and casual drinkers.
• Group Size: Typically small, fostering a friendly, intimate atmosphere.
• Languages: Guided in both Dutch and English, making it accessible for most visitors.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why You Might Enjoy This Beer Tasting

We loved the relaxed vibe of gathering inside ClinkNOORD, a trendy and artsy space that’s easy to reach from the city center. The guide’s enthusiasm is contagious, and the stories about the local breweries add a layer of context that elevates the tasting beyond just drinking random beers.

The focus on small craft breweries gives you a genuine taste of Amsterdam’s burgeoning beer scene, which is less commercialized than international brands like Heineken. The five beer tasters are ample for a one-hour session, allowing you to savor a variety of styles without feeling rushed.

And those bites — Dutch cheese, sausage, and nuts — are thoughtfully chosen to complement the beers, making this a well-rounded experience. Many reviews mention how enjoyable the pairing is, with Esther describing it simply as “Great beer tasting!”

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The event begins inside ClinkNOORD, a lively hub for travelers and locals alike. After checking in, you’ll be greeted by your enthusiastic beer guide—a key element that sets this experience apart. Expect lively conversation, interesting stories about the beers and breweries, and plenty of opportunities to ask questions.

Your tasting includes five different beers, each served in a tasting glass, allowing you to compare styles easily. The beers are carefully selected from local microbreweries, giving a taste of Amsterdam’s craft beer diversity. The guide will share insights into how the beers are made, what makes each one unique, and perhaps a little about the breweries themselves.

The snacks — Dutch cheese, sausage, and nuts — are served alongside, providing the perfect palate cleansers. This pairing enhances the tasting experience and offers a small taste of local flavors.

The tour concludes back at the original meeting point, making it convenient for continued exploration of the city or heading back to your accommodation.

The Value of the Experience

At $28, this tasting offers great value. For less than the price of a typical pint in many bars, you get five thoughtfully selected beers, expert commentary, and snacks. The inclusion of a guide who makes the session lively and informative adds further worth, especially for those unfamiliar with craft beer.

You’re paying not just for the beverages but for the educational and social aspect. It’s a chance to meet like-minded travelers, learn about local brewing traditions, and enjoy a relaxed, fun hour — all in the heart of Amsterdam.

Authenticity and Atmosphere

One of the most praised aspects, based on reviews, is the knowledgeable guides. Esther’s review highlights how well the guide enhanced the experience, making it both enjoyable and educational. The setting inside ClinkNOORD — a modern, vibrant space — adds to the authentic, youthful feel of the activity.

While it’s a short experience, it’s packed with flavor — both literally and figuratively. The casual atmosphere encourages questions and conversations, making it suitable for solo travelers, couples, or groups of friends.

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Practical Tips for Booking and Attending

• Check the schedule: Confirm start times when booking, as availability varies.
• Location: The activity begins inside ClinkNOORD, a short walk from Amsterdam Central Station, making it easy to reach.
• Age restrictions: Not suitable for children under 18.
• Cancellation policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance offers flexibility if plans change.
• Reserve & pay later: Perfect if you’re trying to keep plans flexible.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re curious about local craft beer, enjoy casual social activities, or want an affordable, engaging way to spend an hour, this tasting checks all boxes. It’s especially appealing if you appreciate stories about the products you’re drinking, and if you value the company of a knowledgeable guide.

However, those seeking a comprehensive brewery tour or a longer, more in-depth experience might find this too limited. It’s best suited for travelers who want a fun glimpse into Amsterdam’s brewing culture without committing to a full-day or multi-stop tour.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth Your Time?

This Dutch craft beer tasting offers a delightful, authentic snapshot of Amsterdam’s brewing scene. For about $28, you gain access to five local beers, tasty snacks, and a passionate guide who makes the experience lively and informative. It’s a relaxed, social activity ideal for travelers who want to enjoy some local flavor without fuss.

While it’s not a deep dive into brewing techniques or extensive brewery visits, it delivers a fun, casual introduction to craft beer culture. The inclusion of engaging stories and small-group settings makes it a memorable way to spend an hour in the city.

If you’re looking for a lively, inexpensive activity that combines beer, local bites, and good conversation, this experience is well worth considering — especially if you’re keen to learn about Amsterdam’s craft beer scene from passionate locals.

FAQ

Where does the tour start?
It begins inside ClinkNOORD, near Amsterdam Central Station, making it easy to access before or after sightseeing.

How long does the tasting last?
The experience lasts approximately 1 hour, with specific start times available depending on the day.

What is included in the price?
You’ll get five beer tasters, served in glasses, along with Dutch cheese, sausage, and nuts, plus the guidance of an enthusiastic beer expert.

Is this suitable for children?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 18 due to alcohol consumption restrictions.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if plans change.

How many beers are sampled?
Five different beers are included in the tasting, offering a variety of styles to enjoy.

Is the guide experienced?
Yes, reviews praise the guides for being knowledgeable and engaging, enhancing the experience.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is offered in Dutch and English, making it accessible for most visitors.

What if I want to book later?
You can reserve now and pay later, giving you the flexibility to secure your spot without immediate payment.

Is it a good activity for solo travelers?
Absolutely, the small-group setting and friendly guide make it a great way to meet others and enjoy a relaxed social atmosphere.

This tour offers an honest, enjoyable glimpse into Amsterdam’s craft beer landscape, perfect for travelers seeking a fun, affordable, and authentic experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: