Belgian beer varies from the popular pale lager to the esoteric appeal of lambic beer and Flemish red. Belgian beer-brewing's origins go back to the Middle-Ages, when monasteries began producing beers. Belgian beer production was assisted by the 1919 Belgian "Vandervelde Act", that prohibited the sale of spirits in pubs, inducing the market to produce beers with a higher level of alcohol. The Vandervelde Act was lifted in 1983. High esteem of Belgian beer is supported by beer writers such as Michael Jackson. Although beer production in Belgium is now dominated by Inbev and Alken Maes, there are approximately 125 breweries in the country producing about 500 standard beers. When special one-off beers are included, the total number of brands of Belgian beer exceeds 1000

Belgian Beer Tasting

Day 5 Evening Brussels, Belgium Time: Evening
Photo by William Murphy from Dublin, Ireland on Wikimedia Commons

Overview

Sample a variety of famous Belgian beers at a local pub.

Summary

Immerse yourself in Belgian beer culture by sampling a selection of renowned local brews at a traditional pub.

What You’ll Do

  • Ask your server for recommendations.
  • Try a variety of beer styles (e.g., Trappist, Lambic, Saison).
  • Learn about the brewing process and history.
  • Pair beers with local snacks if available.

Tips

  • Pace yourself; Belgian beers can be strong.
  • Consider a tasting flight to sample multiple beers.
  • Look for pubs with a wide selection and good reviews.

What To Book / Check

  • Check pub opening hours.
  • Verify if any specific tasting events are scheduled.

Item Photo Queries

Belgian Beer Pub Brussels

Detail Photo Queries

Belgian beer tasting Belgian pub interior Trappist beer Belgian beer glasses