Antwerp Pub Crawl

Discover the Antwerp Pub Crawl: An Intimate Tour of Local Pubs and Belgian Beer

The Antwerp Pub Crawl offers a 2-hour journey through the heart of Antwerp’s old town, visiting six different pubs that showcase the city’s vibrant drinking culture. Priced at $68.78 per person, this tour is highly booked in advance, with an average of 38 days ahead, reflecting strong interest. What makes this experience stand out is its focus on Belgian beer alongside other local drinks, led by knowledgeable guides who combine storytelling with tasting. The tour is private, ensuring a personalized experience, and includes pickup options and group discounts.

This pub crawl is perfect for those eager to explore Antwerp’s historic neighborhoods, enjoy local entertainment such as live music and DJ sets, and taste various beer styles—from hoppy and sour to fruity and mildly sweet. It’s suited for adult groups, but not recommended for bachelor parties, and offers flexibility in start and end points based on your preferences. The tour’s reviews highlight the expertise and charisma of the guides, making it a highly recommended activity for beer lovers and cultural explorers alike.

Key Points

• Private, customizable 2-hour pub crawl through Antwerp’s old town
• Six different pubs including historic spots and lively venues
• Expert guides with extensive knowledge of Belgian beer and local history
• Tastings of diverse beer styles plus other local drinks
• Start at Grote Markt, ending at a location of your choice, with pickup offered
• Cost: $68.78 per person, with group discounts available

Antwerp’s Historic Central Location and Meeting Point

The pub crawl begins at Grote Markt 1, right in the heart of Antwerp’s historic square. The meeting point makes it easy to access via public transport and is centrally located near many of the city’s main attractions. The start time of 3:00 pm provides a relaxed afternoon option, ideal for those wanting to combine sightseeing with a taste of local nightlife. The end point varies according to your plans and preferences, offering flexibility for your schedule.

The walkable nature of the tour means you’ll explore several key neighborhoods without needing transport, making it a convenient way to see Antwerp’s old town. Since pickup is offered, groups can arrange to be collected from their accommodation or other preferred locations nearby, adding to the overall ease.

Visiting the Historic Grote Markt and De Engel

The tour kicks off at Grote Markt, where De Engel tavern is a must-visit spot for locals and visitors alike. This free 15-minute stop highlights Antwerp’s rich tradition of enjoying beer in historic settings. The Grote Markt itself is a lively hub packed with cafés and architectural beauty, setting the perfect scene for the beginning of the pub crawl.

From here, the guide draws attention to the significance of local drinking customs and introduces the first of many stories about Antwerp’s brewing culture. This stop provides a taste of the city’s history and an opportunity to observe the vibrant atmosphere of the main square.

Exploring the Artistic Charm of Hoogstraat’s Live Music Venues

Next, the crawl heads to Hoogstraat, where The Soeke at Hoogstraat 59 offers an intimate atmosphere with a rich artistic past. This cozy pub hosts live music performances during the week and transforms into a lively dance spot during weekends. A 15-minute visit here allows for relaxing conversations and discovering Antwerp’s artistic side.

The guide shares insights into the local scene, and the pub’s charming ambiance makes it easy to enjoy a local drink while soaking up the creative vibe. The lively music and artistic history add a special flavor to this stop, making it more than just a typical pub.

Discovering Live Entertainment at Café Cabron Kaasrui

The tour then moves to Café Cabron Kaasrui 1, a beer pub renowned for its live performances during the week and DJ sets during weekends. This venue offers a 15-minute glimpse into Antwerp’s nightlife scene, with a focus on local music and entertainment.

Along With tasting Belgian beers, visitors can enjoy the energetic atmosphere of this lively venue. The pub’s reputation for hosting parties and events makes it a highlight for those wanting to experience Antwerp’s vibrant pub scene.

Relaxing at Oude Koornmarkt and Enjoying the Drinks

Next, the group visits Oude Koornmarkt 38, a place to unwind and enjoy a broad selection of drinks and refreshments. Known for being a perfect spot to relax after a busy day in Antwerp, this 15-minute stop offers a laid-back environment with an excellent drinks list.

Later in the evening, this location is also noted for hosting parties, making it a versatile stop for both casual drinking and festive gatherings. The guide emphasizes the quality of the beverage selection here, showcasing Antwerp’s hospitality.

Live Performances at Djinngel Djangel on Bordeauxstraat

The crawl continues to Djinngel Djangel at Bordeauxstraat 7A, near the Mas Museum on the Eilandje. This pub is celebrated as one of the best venues for live performances in the city. A 15-minute visit provides a chance to experience Antwerp’s docklands area and enjoy local music acts.

This stop highlights the city’s blend of cultural history and contemporary entertainment, giving visitors a taste of Antwerp’s musical scene and vibrant pub culture. The location’s proximity to the docklands offers additional sightseeing opportunities post-visit.

The Anglo-Saxon Atmosphere at The Highlander

One of the longer stops, lasting 30 minutes, takes place at The Highlander on Stadswaag 21. This pub provides an Anglo-Saxon experience, emphasizing beer and whisky. It appeals to those interested in exploring British-inspired pubs with a focus on quality drinks.

The extended time allows guests to chat with the staff, learn about different styles of beer and whisky, and enjoy the ambiance that blends Antwerp’s local charm with British pub traditions. This stop is especially praised for its knowledgeable staff and welcoming atmosphere.

Testing Your Taste Buds at Bier Central Near Central Station

The final stop in the itinerary is Bier Central at De Keyserlei 25, located close to Antwerp Central Station. This venue is one of the most convenient for travelers arriving or departing from the station, making it an ideal place for a Belgian beer tasting experience.

The 15-minute stop here is perfect for sampling some of the best Belgian beers and reflecting on the tour’s highlights. It’s a lively spot to conclude the crawl, offering a broad selection and a vibrant atmosphere.

The Guide’s Expertise and Personalized Experience

Throughout the tour, guides are praised for their extensive knowledge of beer and Antwerp’s history, making each stop informative and engaging. The reviews highlight the charisma and friendliness of the guides, with Flip frequently mentioned as a standout personality.

The tour is private, ensuring that the experience is tailored to the group’s interests and pace. Guests appreciate that the number of stops, the types of drinks, and the stories told can be customized, creating a more personalized and relaxed environment.

Practical Details and Booking Flexibility

The tour includes all fees and taxes, with pickup offered for added convenience. It is suitable for most travelers, with service animals allowed. The private nature of the experience means only your group participates, ensuring intimacy and flexibility.

To cancel, a full refund is available if canceled 24 hours in advance. The tour operates rain or shine, making it a reliable activity for any weather.

Final Thoughts: A Guide-Driven Journey into Antwerp’s Beer and Culture

The Antwerp Pub Crawl stands out as a well-organized, engaging way to explore Antwerp’s historic pubs and local drinks. Its private format, expert guides, and diverse stops make it a compelling choice for beer enthusiasts and cultural explorers. The cost of $68.78 is reasonable considering the personalized service, multiple venues, and tastings included.

While not suited for bachelor parties, the tour is ideal for adults seeking a relaxed, informative experience that combines history, music, and beer. The consistent praise of the guides, especially Flip’s knowledge and charisma, adds significant value. Those wanting an authentic taste of Antwerp’s pub scene will find this tour both enjoyable and memorable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Since the tour involves walking through the city’s old town and visiting multiple pubs, it may require some light walking. Details about accessibility are not specified, so it’s best to inquire directly if needed.

Can I cancel or reschedule the tour?
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund if you do so at least 24 hours in advance. Changes less than 24 hours before the scheduled start are not accepted.

Are drinks included in the tour price?
The tour fee covers all fees and taxes, and at each pub, guests treat the guide to a drink. The price does not include additional drinks beyond the tasting selections.

What makes this tour stand out from other pub crawls?
Its private, customizable approach, combined with highly praised guides like Flip, and stops at notable venues with live music and varied drinks, make it a top choice for a personalized Antwerp experience.