Discovering the Pub Crawl Culture in Brussels

If you are searching for a city with exceptional beer culture and a city that never sleeps, look no further than Brussels. Brussels is a city that is passionate about its beer, with its unique brewing culture spreading across the city. What better way to experience the city’s pub crawl culture than exploring the best pubs and bars throughout its streets. In this blog post, we take you through the famous pubs and bars, important information, and tips to help you get the best of the pub crawl experience in Brussels.

Where to Go on a Pub Crawl in Brussels

As you explore the streets of Brussels, you’ll come across numerous pubs and bars that serve up some of the world’s finest beers. Here are some of the best pubs and bars to check out on your pub crawl:

1. Delirium Café

This cozy pub is one of the most famous in the city with its extensive beer collection, roughly 3,000 different beers from across the globe. They have a beer for every taste and preference, with over 30 draught beers, from the lighter pilsners to strong Belgian IPAs. It can get quite crowded, especially at peak hours, so it’s best to arrive early.

2. Moeder Lambic Fontainas

Moeder Lambic is the perfect spot to experience the local Belgian craft beer scene. This small bar offers an incredible range of sour ales and other niche brews from local artisanal breweries. The atmosphere is casual and lively, making it a popular spot among locals and tourists alike.

3. A La Mort Subite

Located in the heart of the city, A La Mort Subite is a historic bar that has been around for over 100 years. The decor and atmosphere add to the overall experience, and the menu features some of the best varieties of beer in Brussels. You’ll find local specialties, including lambic and gueuze beers, as well as some international selections.

4. Brussels Beer Project

Brussels Beer Project is a relatively new brewery run by two brewing enthusiasts. The taproom is quite large and offers a mix of experimental and traditional beers. If you want to try different beer styles, this is the perfect spot for you. They also offer tours of their brewery for those interested in learning about the craft of brewing.

5. Floris Bar

Floris Bar is a cozy spot located in the trendy Matonge neighborhood. It’s a great spot to unwind after a long day of exploring the city. They have over 100 Belgian beers to choose from, including some lesser-known and rare brands, so you might find something unique and unusual.

Important Information and Tips for a Pub Crawl in Brussels

Before embarking on a pub crawl in Brussels, there are a few essential things you should know.

1. Drinking Age

The legal drinking age in Brussels is 16, but most bars and pubs will only serve alcohol to those who are 18 and above. Carry an ID with you, particularly your passport, to avoid such incidents.

2. Lingo

Most people in Brussels speak French and/or Dutch. However, many of the locals comprehend Belgian French, which incorporates some Flemish vernacular.

3. Pace Yourself

It’s easy to get carried away on a pub crawl, but it’s essential to pace yourself so that you make it through the night. Try to consume water after every other drink to keep yourself hydrated.

4. Travel Lightly

It’s best to carry minimal baggage when going on a pub crawl. Leave your valuables at home and bring along only what you need, like a wallet, identification, and phone.

5. Try New Beers

One of the joys of a pub crawl is discovering new and unique beers, so don’t hesitate to try something different.

Conclusion

Brussels is a city that provides both beer lovers and tourists alike a fantastic pub crawl experience. From historic institutions such as A La Mort Subite to the trendy brewery Brussels Beer Project and the famous Delirium Café, the city offers an extensive range of locations to explore. Remember to pace yourself, travel lightly, and try new beers to have the best possible experience. So, the next time you visit Brussels, embark on a pub crawl venture, and immerse yourself in the city’s beer culture.

Exploring the Pub Crawl Culture in Brussels: An Insider’s Guide

Brussels, the land of comic books, chocolates, and waffles, is also known for its lively pub scene. Whether you are a beer enthusiast or someone looking for a fun night out, Brussels has something for everyone. As an insider, I am excited to share my guide to discovering the pub crawl culture of Brussels and getting to know the city beyond the tourist hotspots.

Local Attractions: Uncovering Hidden Gems

While the Grand Place and the Manneken Pis are iconic landmarks, there are many more hidden gems worth exploring. The Saint-Gilles neighborhood offers a diverse array of street art and murals. For a more peaceful setting, visit Bois de la Cambre, a park that is perfect for a picnic. Another noteworthy place is Place Flagey, a lively square in Ixelles that has a weekly market and lively concerts.

Dining Spots: Savoring Local Cuisine

Belgium is known for its cuisine, and Brussels has some mouth-watering offerings. Be sure to try the carbonnade flamande, a beef stew cooked in beer, or the moules frites, a traditional dish of mussels and fries. For dessert, indulge in a warm Belgian waffle, or a cone of crispy gaufres de Liège. As a bonus, visit the city’s oldest chocolate shop, Neuhaus, and try some pralines, the famous Belgian chocolate balls.

Cultural Experiences: Immersing in the City’s Traditions

Brussels is a city that celebrates its heritage, and there’s a lot to discover. Catch a live jazz performance at the Music Village or attend the Art Nouveau Festival in October, when the city’s stunning art nouveau buildings are open to the public for free. If you’re visiting in August, don’t miss the Flower Carpet, a biennial tradition in which the Grand Place is covered in thousands of flowers. Lastly, visit the Atomium, Brussels’ most iconic landmark and an emblem of the city’s modernity.

Local History: Discovering Captivating Stories

Brussels has a rich history, and some of the tales are worth exploring. The comic strip museum is a testament to the city’s love of comic books. Don Quixote’s statue, located in the Sablon neighborhood, commemorates the time when the Spanish emperor Carlos V gave Brussels a statue of the Spanish knight. The statue found its way to the museum, but an identical statue of Don Quixote was erected in its place. Additionally, visit the Belgian Brewers’ Museum, which gives an insight into the history and tradition of Belgian beer.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Embracing the Unusual

For a truly remarkable experience, visit the Musical Instrument Museum or the Museum of Natural Sciences, which features dinosaur skeletons. Stroll in the Saint Catherine neighborhood, which has an array of cosy cafes, bars, and bistros. Lastly, for a surreal experience, visit the Atomium at night when it’s lit up and offers an unforgettable view of the city.

In conclusion, Brussels is a city rich in history, tradition, and culture, and it’s pub crawl culture is just a portion of it. Venture a bit further, and you’ll find that Brussels has plenty to offer beyond its famous landmarks. Whether it’s uncovering hidden gems or trying the local cuisine, embrace the city’s quirks, and create unforgettable memories.