Brewery Tours Outside Amsterdam: Best One-Day Trips
When it comes to exploring the world of craft beer in the Netherlands, Amsterdam is often the first city that comes to mind. However, there are plenty of fantastic brewery tours located just outside the bustling capital that offer a unique and immersive experience for beer enthusiasts. Whether you are a seasoned beer connoisseur or just looking to expand your knowledge of the brewing process, these one-day trips from Amsterdam are sure to delight your taste buds and provide a memorable adventure.
1. Brouwerij ‘t IJ – Amsterdam
While technically still within Amsterdam’s city limits, a visit to Brouwerij ‘t IJ is a must for any beer lover exploring the Dutch brewing scene. Located next to the iconic De Gooyer windmill, this brewery offers guided tours that provide insight into their brewing process and history. After the tour, visitors can sample a variety of their beers, including their popular Zatte Tripel and Natte Dubbel, in the cozy tasting room or outdoor terrace overlooking the canal.
2. Jopenkerk – Haarlem
Just a short train ride from Amsterdam, the historic city of Haarlem is home to Jopenkerk, a unique brewery housed in a former church. The brewery offers guided tours that take visitors through the brewing process, from the raw ingredients to the fermentation tanks. After the tour, guests can enjoy a tasting flight of Jopen’s award-winning beers, such as their Mooie Nel IPA and Koyt Gruitbier, in the stunning church-turned-tasting room.
3. Brouwerij De Molen – Bodegraven
For a more immersive brewery experience, head to Brouwerij De Molen in the picturesque town of Bodegraven, about an hour’s drive from Amsterdam. Known for their innovative and experimental brews, De Molen offers guided tours that provide a behind-the-scenes look at their brewing facilities and barrel-aging program. Visitors can sample a wide range of their unique beers, including barrel-aged stouts and sour ales, in the cozy tasting room or outdoor beer garden.
4. Brouwerij De Leckere – Utrecht
Located in the vibrant city of Utrecht, Brouwerij De Leckere is a sustainable brewery that focuses on producing organic beers using locally sourced ingredients. Visitors can take a guided tour of the brewery to learn about their environmentally friendly brewing process and commitment to sustainability. After the tour, guests can relax in the brewery’s tasting room and sample a selection of their organic beers, such as the Blauwe Bijl Saison and Paulus Abbey Ale.
5. Brouwerij Oedipus – Amsterdam
While technically still within Amsterdam, Brouwerij Oedipus offers a unique brewery tour experience that is worth the short trip from the city center. Known for their colorful and creative beer labels, Oedipus Brewery provides guided tours that showcase their unconventional brewing methods and experimental approach to beer-making. Visitors can enjoy a tasting flight of Oedipus beers, such as the Thai Thai Tripel and Swingers Session IPA, in the brewery’s vibrant taproom.
Exploring the world of Dutch craft beer extends far beyond the borders of Amsterdam. These one-day trips to breweries located just outside the capital offer a diverse range of experiences, from historic church breweries to innovative craft beer makers. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast looking to expand your palate or simply curious about the brewing process, these brewery tours are sure to provide a memorable and educational adventure.