6x Beer tasting with tour of these Rotterdam beer breweries

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Welcome to the vibrant beer culture of Rotterdam, where beer is not just consumed but also experienced and crafted. Around 1650, Rotterdam had about 30 breweries, with the harbors and water quality playing a crucial role. Now, in a time when Rotterdam hosts a handful of serious brewers, the city continues to embrace its dynamism and innovation, especially in the realm of beer. For those who wish to discover more about the artisanal process behind their favorite drink, Rotterdam offers an extensive selection of breweries open for tours and tastings.

Step into the world of malt, hops, and yeast as you unravel the secrets of the brewing process, from grain milling to bottling the final product. Meet passionate brewers who are eager to share their knowledge and love for beer as you stroll through the facilities, taking in the aromatic scents that fill the breweries.

But visiting these breweries is not just an educational experience—it’s also an opportunity to enjoy the fruits of all that hard work. Taste a range of beers, from traditional craft brews to bold experiments and unique flavors found only in Rotterdam.

Whether you are a seasoned beer lover or simply looking for an engaging bachelor party activity in the city, Rotterdam's breweries promise an unforgettable journey through the world of beer. Be amazed by the passion, craftsmanship, and taste these breweries have to offer, and discover why Rotterdam has become a thriving hub for beer enthusiasts from around the globe.

Stadshaven Brewery

Stadshaven Brewery, located in the M4H area of West Rotterdam, is a unique combination of restaurant and brewery unlike any other. Since its opening in July 2021, it has quickly become one of the largest independent craft beer breweries in the Netherlands, with an impressive production capacity of two million liters of craft beer per year. Whether you're looking for a full tour of the brewery, to enjoy their house-brewed beers paired with food, or just to relax and soak in the atmosphere in the gastropub with a refreshing drink, Stadshaven Brewery offers something for everyone. With a focus on sustainability, the brewery produces circular beer, with a roof covered in solar panels that store excess energy in recycled e-scooter batteries. The brewing by-products are used to support local initiatives such as the Floating Farm and Jordy’s Bakery. With a 750m2 terrace right by the Merwehaven, Stadshaven Brewery not only offers a delightful culinary experience but also a lively venue for a night out, whether it’s for a romantic dinner or a night of dancing.

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Brouwerij Noordt

Brouwerij Noordt, a well-known name in Rotterdam, is located in the historic Oude Noorden and is renowned for brewing some of the finest beers. Established in 2015 by master brewer Peter Rouwen, Brouwerij Noordt has quickly become an iconic name in the Rotterdam beer scene. Although situated outside the city center, the brewery is well known to every Rotterdammer and is increasingly gaining prominence across the Netherlands. Nestled in the Zwaanshals, a beautiful and historic part of Rotterdam North, this beer gem brings together classic Belgian beer styles with bold experiments. With a range of offerings from heavily hopped beers to exciting bottom-fermented brews and even barrel-aged creations, there’s something for every beer lover to discover. With 20 beers on tap, including classics, seasonal brews, and special NXP-series, Brouwerij Noordt offers a wide array of flavors straight from the brewery. Every Friday and Saturday, visitors can take part in brewery tours, gaining insight into the brewing process that brings these Rotterdam beers to life. For those looking to take home their favorite beers, the brewery also has a beer shop offering a variety of products, from gift packs and six-packs to Noordt merchandise, so the taste of Brouwerij Noordt can be enjoyed anywhere.

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Kaapse Brouwers

As pioneers in the Rotterdam craft beer scene, Kaapse Brouwers have been making waves since 2014 with bold recipes, flavor experiments, and contemporary craft beers. Their mission? Nothing less than brewing the best Rotterdam beer in the world! Founded in February 2014, the brewery not only boasts an impressive brewing facility but also a cozy tasting room and beer shop in Katendrecht, a bustling neighborhood in South Rotterdam. Having started in one of the Fenix warehouses, they had to relocate to a new space in Keilepand in 2020, where they expanded production to about 3000 hl per year. At Kaapse Brouwers, it’s not just about brewing great beer, but also about sharing knowledge and passion for craft brewing. That's why they offer Brewery Tours, where visitors can travel by water taxi from their taproom to the brewery, explore the brewing process, and discover the stories behind their beers. The Brewery Tour begins at their taproom Kaapse Kaap, where you’re welcomed with a delicious beer, and then continues via water taxi to the brewery, where the adventure into the world of Kaapse beers begins.

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Vet & Lazy

Vet & Lazy, located in the basement of the former Tropicana swimming pool, is the brewery of BlueCity and a true paradise for beer lovers. Since 2015, Vet & Lazy has been brewing some of the finest beers Rotterdam has to offer, with names like Je Moeder, Fluffy, and Dubbel Wit Zomerfit. Although the brewery began with a 30-liter stockpot, it has grown into a serious player with a production of 800 liters per batch, yielding 40 hl per month. But it’s not just about the beer; Vet & Lazy also offers a unique experience with brewery tours and product tastings for groups of 10 or more. Dive into the catacombs of the iconic building, learn more about the brewing process, and expand your beer knowledge under the guidance of the men of Vet & Lazy. With a cozy terrace along the Maas River in the near future, Vet & Lazy promises not only a beer paradise but also a relaxed experience where you can enjoy Rotterdam beers in a laid-back atmosphere.

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Stadsbrouwerij De Pelgrim

Since 1996, Stadsbrouwerij De Pelgrim has been brewing beers in historic Delfshaven. In this brewery, craft-brewed Pelgrimbier is made using pure Rotterdam water, earning it the nickname ‘Liquid Gold from Rotterdam’. A visit to Stadsbrouwerij De Pelgrim is not only a chance to enjoy delicious beers but also to learn all about beer and brewing, complete with a tasting! Tours are available for groups of eight or more and offer a unique insight into the history of Delfshaven, the Pilgrim Fathers, and of course, the brewery itself. Enjoy the historical ambiance of the former town hall of Delfshaven and travel back in time to the 17th century, the era of the Pilgrim Fathers embarking on their journey westward. The brewers are constantly working to improve and refine their beers, and special limited-edition brews are often available on tap. Come along and let the guide take you on an engaging tour through the brewery, where you’ll not only learn about the history of Delfshaven and the brewery but also enjoy the diverse flavors of Pelgrim beers.

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Heineken Building

From 1873 to 1974, the Heineken Brewery was a prominent player in Rotterdam. Although most of the brewery has been demolished, the still-standing office building on the Crooswijksesingel from 1932 testifies to this glorious period. The historic Heineken Building, a monument to Rotterdam's industry, is a tangible reminder of the beer production that once took place here. Today, the office building houses several businesses and serves as a lively center of activity. Visitors can take part in engaging audio tours, bringing the history of the former Heineken Brewery to life. On weekdays, guests can wander the halls independently and explore the rich history while enjoying the architectural beauty of the building. For a more interactive experience, guests can also opt for a guided tour, led by an experienced Rotterdam guide, available Monday through Saturday. The tour ends with a relaxed moment in the Secret Bar, where visitors can enjoy a refreshing beer and reflect on the knowledge they’ve gained. Explore the rich history of the Heineken Brewery in Rotterdam and take a journey back in time in this beautiful, historic building on the Crooswijksesingel.

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