De Halve Maan Brewery, Bruges - a couple of people that are standing in front of a building
1 / 10

De Halve Maan Brewery Bruges

4.6
·4k reviews·Brugge, Belgium

A historic, family-run brewery in Bruges offering engaging tours, unique beer pipeline insights, and fresh, unfiltered Belgian brews.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed tour

CrowdLow
Loading map...
De Halve Maan Brewery, Bruges - a couple of people that are standing in front of a building

De Halve Maan Brewery Bruges

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more relaxed tour

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic, family-run brewery in Bruges offering engaging tours, unique beer pipeline insights, and fresh, unfiltered Belgian brews.

4.6
(4k reviews)

"The brewery tour is a must-do, offering a deep dive into history and ending with a fantastic unfiltered beer."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Tours in Advance

Secure your spot for the popular brewery tour by booking online ahead of time. :ticket:

👟 Be Ready for Stairs

The historic brewery has many stairs; wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for the climb. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

De Halve Maan Brewery Tour

De Halve Maan Brewery Tour

Brewery interior

Discover centuries of brewing history, see traditional methods, and enjoy a fresh pint at the end.

InstagramReddit
Underground Beer Pipeline

Underground Beer Pipeline

Brewery and bottling plant connection

Learn about the 3km pipeline transporting beer, a unique feat of modern brewing logistics.

Instagram+1
Fresh, Unfiltered Brugse Zot

Fresh, Unfiltered Brugse Zot

Tavern/Restaurant

Taste Brugse Zot and Straffe Hendrik directly from the tap, unfiltered and fresh from the source.

InstagramReddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Book Your Brewery Tour in Advance

De Halve Maan Brewery is a popular spot, especially for its unique tours. Booking your tour online ahead of time is highly recommended to secure your spot and avoid disappointment, particularly during peak seasons. InstagramReddit

Stairs and Beer Pipeline Insights

Be prepared for stairs during the brewery tour; it's a historic building! InstagramReddit Also, learn about the fascinating underground beer pipeline connecting the brewery to its bottling plant – a unique feature that many visitors rave about. InstagramReddit+1

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed tour
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend evenings
Why
Lively atmosphere, great for groups
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Belgium tips! #belgium #brussels #bruges
@thelittlebasketco
43.3K likes • 1.4M views

🎯 Book Tours in Advance

Secure your spot for the popular brewery tour by booking online ahead of time. InstagramReddit :ticket:

👟 Be Ready for Stairs

The historic brewery has many stairs; wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for the climb. InstagramReddit :athletic_shoe:

And now to learn about the other half of the culture… 🍻 . . #travelcouple #belgium #europe #beertok #brugges #beertour
@templetontravels
22.4K likes • 235K views
4 EXCEPTIONAL places to drink beer🍻 in Bruges, Belgium 🇧🇪 🍺De Halve Maan (The Half Moon) 🍺Brewery Bourgogne des Flandres 🍺Le Trappiste 🍺Brasserie Cambrinus #belgianbeers #belgianbeerlover #ukinfluencer #bruggebelgium #brugge #visitbrugge #igbrugge #bruges #visitbruges #igbrugge #igersbrugge #visitflanders #visitbelgium #belgium #brugesbelgium #europetravel #europedestinations #travelvlog #belgia...
yellowshoesorangeumbrella
59 likes • 1.3K views

🍺 Taste Unfiltered Beer

Enjoy Brugse Zot and Straffe Hendrik unfiltered, straight from the tap at the brewery. InstagramReddit :beer_mug:

🚇 Learn About the Pipeline

Discover the fascinating underground beer pipeline connecting the brewery to its bottling plant. Instagram+1 :factory:

Discover the heart of Bruges at De Halve Maan Brewery 🍺✨ It’s more than just a brewery! Here, history, craftsmanship, and flavor come together. Explore the museum to learn about centuries of brewing tradition, see how their famous beers are made, and enjoy a fresh pint in their cozy restaurant. In the restaurant, you can also try traditional Belgian dishes infused with beer — a unique taste you ...
stasya_kudrik
29 likes • 856 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Tours in Advance

Secure your spot for the popular brewery tour by booking online ahead of time. InstagramReddit :ticket:

👟 Be Ready for Stairs

The historic brewery has many stairs; wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for the climb. InstagramReddit :athletic_shoe:

🍺 Taste Unfiltered Beer

Enjoy Brugse Zot and Straffe Hendrik unfiltered, straight from the tap at the brewery. InstagramReddit :beer_mug:

🚇 Learn About the Pipeline

Discover the fascinating underground beer pipeline connecting the brewery to its bottling plant. Instagram+1 :factory:

🍽️ Consider Dining Options

The restaurant offers Belgian dishes, some infused with beer, but reviews on food quality vary. InstagramReddit :knifeforkplate:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise De Halve Maan Brewery for its rich history, engaging tours, and the exceptional taste of its unfiltered beers, particularly Brugse Zot. The unique beer pipeline is a major talking point. While the food receives mixed reviews and can be pricey, the overall experience of learning about centuries of brewing tradition and enjoying fresh beer makes it a highly recommended stop in Bruges.

"If you are visiting Bruges for a day or more and love beer and history…this is the place for you. Sign up for a brewery tour to learn the deep history of this beautiful place. Your tour is about 50 minutes and you get to enjoy a beer at the end by redeeming your ticket at the bar.

Be careful not to pregame too hard before the tour…the stairs through the tour are not for the weary, but everything was worth it!

The food folks were munching on outside under the umbrella tables looked fantastic.

Definitely take the time to come here and enjoy the history!"

Colleen G.

"Multiple friends (local and travel buddies) recommended this brewery as a must-visit. It did not disappoint. The unfiltered Belgian beers were stellar. The beer is piped in from the brewery 3.2km away. The vibe is chill and fun. Waiters are always circling around, checking on you. Definitely one of my favorite spots.

I didn't get to try the food, but glancing at other peoples tables, it looked great too!"

Rasikanand Harvind

"We didn’t go on the tour or visit the museum — instead, we just wanted to sit and enjoy some local beer. The place has a lovely small yard with its own unique atmosphere. There were quite a few waiters, all very polite and attentive. The beer tasted great, and we also tried the spretzels — they were incredibly fresh!"

Наталья Губенко

What People Like

Engaging brewery tours
Fresh, unfiltered beer
Unique beer pipeline story

What People Dislike

Pricey food
Inconsistent food quality
Steep stairs on tour

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

De Halve Maan Brewery is conveniently located in the heart of Bruges, making it easily accessible on foot from most central accommodations. If arriving by train, it's a pleasant walk or a short bus ride. Many visitors find walking the most enjoyable way to reach the brewery, allowing them to soak in the charming Bruges atmosphere. TikTok+1

Yes, the brewery is centrally located, making it easy to combine with other Bruges must-sees like the Markt square, Belfry of Bruges, and canal tours. It's a perfect stop during a day of exploring the historic city center. TikTok+1

While Bruges is very walkable, local buses do operate within the city. You can check local bus routes and schedules from the Bruges train station to get closer to the brewery's central location. TikTok

Many visitors recommend exploring Bruges on foot to truly appreciate its fairytale charm. De Halve Maan Brewery is a great starting or ending point for such explorations. TikTok+1

Parking in Bruges' historic center can be challenging and expensive. It's generally recommended to use public transport or walk if possible. If driving, look for designated public parking garages on the outskirts of the center. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tour prices can vary, but typically include the guided tour and a tasting of their unfiltered beer. It's best to check the official De Halve Maan Brewery website for the most current pricing and to book your tickets in advance. InstagramReddit

Yes, booking your brewery tour in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to guarantee your spot and avoid disappointment. InstagramReddit

The standard tour usually includes a guided walk through the brewery's historic facilities, an explanation of the brewing process, and a tasting of one of their signature beers, like Brugse Zot. InstagramReddit

Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's advisable to check the official De Halve Maan Brewery website for the most up-to-date information on tour times and general opening hours for the tavern and restaurant. Instagram

Yes, you can visit the brewery's tavern and restaurant area without taking the full tour to enjoy their beers and food. However, the tour offers a comprehensive insight into their history and brewing process. Reddit

🍽️ 🍺 Beer & Dining

The brewery is famous for its Brugse Zot (a blond beer) and Straffe Hendrik (a stronger beer). You can often taste these unfiltered and fresh directly from the tap at the brewery. InstagramReddit

Visitors consistently praise the quality and taste of the beers, especially when enjoyed unfiltered and fresh from the brewery. Many consider it a highlight of their Bruges visit. Reddit

The brewery's restaurant offers traditional Belgian dishes, some of which are prepared with beer. While many enjoy the food, some reviews suggest it can be pricey and quality can vary. InstagramReddit

Yes, there is typically a gift shop where you can purchase bottles of their beers, as well as other brewery-related merchandise. Instagram

Bruges has a rich beer culture. Nearby, you can find other highly-rated beer bars like 't Brugs Beertje and De Garre, as well as Brewery Bourgogne des Flandres. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography & Experience

Capture stunning shots of the historic brewery architecture, the panoramic city views from the upper levels, and of course, your delicious beer! The underground pipeline also offers unique photo potential. Instagram+1

The tour involves stairs and historical context that might be more engaging for older children and adults. Younger children might find parts of the tour less interesting, but the beer tasting at the end is a highlight for adults. Reddit

It's an impressive 3km underground pipeline that transports beer from the brewery in the city center to their bottling plant on the outskirts, minimizing truck traffic. InstagramReddit+1

Visitors describe the atmosphere as chill and fun, with attentive staff. It's a great place to relax, enjoy good beer, and soak in the historic ambiance of Bruges. Reddit

The brewery offers a unique blend of history, craftsmanship, and modern innovation, highlighted by the underground beer pipeline and the chance to taste unfiltered, locally brewed beers. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the brewery tour offers a fascinating glimpse into brewing history, it involves a significant number of stairs and historical details that might be less engaging for very young children. However, older children and teenagers can appreciate the unique story of the beer pipeline and the chance to see a working brewery. InstagramReddit

For families, consider focusing on the tasting aspect (for adults) and the visual elements of the brewery. The restaurant offers a place to refuel, though reviews on food value are mixed. A canal tour in Bruges might be a more universally engaging activity for younger children. TikTok

🍻 Beer Enthusiasts

De Halve Maan Brewery is a must-visit for any serious beer lover. The opportunity to taste Brugse Zot and Straffe Hendrik unfiltered, directly from the source, is unparalleled. The brewery tour provides deep insights into Belgian brewing traditions and the innovative beer pipeline. InstagramReddit+1

Beyond the brewery itself, explore other highly-rated beer bars in Bruges like 't Brugs Beertje and De Garre for a wider selection of Belgian brews. Consider Brewery Bourgogne des Flandres for another brewery experience in the city. Reddit

🚶 Solo Travelers

De Halve Maan Brewery is a welcoming spot for solo travelers. The brewery tour is a great way to learn and engage, and the tasting at the end offers a chance to chat with other visitors. InstagramReddit

Enjoying a beer at the tavern or restaurant is also a pleasant solo activity. The staff are generally attentive, and you can soak in the historic atmosphere. Bruges itself is a very walkable and safe city, making solo exploration easy and enjoyable. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Historic Brewing Legacy

De Halve Maan Brewery, translating to 'The Half Moon', is a testament to Bruges' rich brewing heritage. It stands as one of the last remaining family-owned breweries in the historic city center, a rare gem in a landscape often dominated by larger corporations. The brewery has been brewing continuously for centuries, adapting and innovating while staying true to its roots. Instagram+1

During the tour, you'll walk through the very same halls where generations of brewers have perfected their craft. You'll see traditional copper kettles and learn about the meticulous process of creating their renowned beers. This immersive experience offers a tangible connection to Bruges' past and its enduring love affair with quality beer. InstagramReddit

This deep dive into history isn't just about facts; it's about understanding the passion and dedication that goes into every bottle. It's what makes tasting a Brugse Zot or Straffe Hendrik here a truly special experience, far beyond just enjoying a beverage. InstagramReddit

The Marvel of the Beer Pipeline

One of the most talked-about features of De Halve Maan Brewery is its innovative underground beer pipeline. This 3.2-kilometer (approximately 2 miles) pipeline connects the brewery in the city center to its bottling plant located further away. This ingenious solution was implemented to reduce the need for heavy beer trucks rumbling through Bruges' delicate cobblestone streets, thereby preserving the historic infrastructure and reducing environmental impact. InstagramReddit+1

This modern marvel is a fascinating blend of tradition and forward-thinking engineering. It ensures that the beer, particularly the unfiltered Brugse Zot, reaches the bottling plant in optimal condition, maintaining its freshness and quality. The story of the pipeline is often shared with a touch of humor and pride by guides, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the brewery visit. Instagram+1

Learning about the beer pipeline provides a unique perspective on the brewery's commitment to both its heritage and its future. It's a testament to how a historic business can embrace modern solutions while respecting its surroundings and its craft. Instagram

Tasting the Flavors of Bruges

The tasting experience at De Halve Maan Brewery is a highlight for many visitors. The brewery is renowned for its Brugse Zot, a refreshing blond beer, and the more robust Straffe Hendrik. A key part of the tasting is enjoying these beers unfiltered, straight from the brewery's taps, which many believe enhances their flavor profile. InstagramReddit

Beyond the beer, the brewery's restaurant offers a chance to sample traditional Belgian cuisine. Dishes often incorporate beer, providing a unique culinary twist. While some reviews praise the food, others find it to be on the pricier side, with varying opinions on taste. It's worth considering if you want a full culinary experience alongside your brewery visit. InstagramReddit

For those looking to take a piece of Bruges home, the brewery's gift shop offers a selection of their beers and branded merchandise. It's a great way to remember your visit and share the taste of Bruges with friends and family. Instagram

You may also like

1 of 2