
Stella Artois Brewery
Discover the 600-year history of Stella Artois, a premium Belgian lager, with an engaging brewery tour and tasting experience.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed

Stella Artois Brewery
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the 600-year history of Stella Artois, a premium Belgian lager, with an engaging brewery tour and tasting experience.
"The best part is the 30 mins - 1 hour of drinks at the bar after the tour!"

🎯 Maximize Your Tastings
Try to sample all your free tastings within the allotted time; some can be higher ABV!
🍻 Bartender's Local Tips
Chat with the bartenders for great travel advice and discover the 'secret tap'.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Brewery Bar Experience
Post-tour bar area
Enjoy a generous tasting session and local insights from knowledgeable bartenders. Make your money back in drinks!

Historical Brewery Tour
Stella Artois Brewery
Discover the 600-year-old history of Stella Artois, from its Den Hoorn origins to its global recognition. Learn about the brewing process and brand heritage.

Tasting Diverse Stella Varieties
Brewery tasting room
Sample various Stella Artois beers, including special or higher ABV options, as part of your tour experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Brewery Tour Insights
Understanding Stella Artois
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Maximize Your Tastings
Try to sample all your free tastings within the allotted time; some can be higher ABV!
🍻 Bartender's Local Tips
Chat with the bartenders for great travel advice and discover the 'secret tap'.
⏳ Be Prepared for Seating
A good portion of the tour involves sitting and presentations before walking.
🌟 Learn the Brand History
Discover the fascinating origins of Stella Artois, dating back to 1366.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Maximize Your Tastings
Try to sample all your free tastings within the allotted time; some can be higher ABV!
🍻 Bartender's Local Tips
Chat with the bartenders for great travel advice and discover the 'secret tap'.
⏳ Be Prepared for Seating
A good portion of the tour involves sitting and presentations before walking.
🌟 Learn the Brand History
Discover the fascinating origins of Stella Artois, dating back to 1366.
🍺 Compare Brews
See how UK-brewed Stella compares to the Belgian version.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally praise the Stella Artois Brewery tour for its informative content and generous tastings, especially the post-tour bar experience with knowledgeable staff. However, some find the tour heavily reliant on seated presentations rather than extensive brewery floor exploration. A few reviewers have expressed dissatisfaction with rebate offers not being honored.
"I did the Brewery tour, was so informative and 4 free tastings if you are able to get them all down in 15 minutes hahaha
Of course, I did and the last one was a 10% beer, was really nice amazingly"
Jamie S
"Does not honor rebate offers advertised in store. Will avoid your product and marketing traps moving forward. Submitted as instructed and told I didn't pay enough to qualify. Ruins what was a nice beer for me. Don't appreciate false offers or being yanked around by false promises. Should be illegal."
Mike Nulty
"Firstly. Bar keep best you could have. Knowledgeable, quick and plenty of beers. Lad with glasses and brown hair. Sorted us out with travel recommendations. Also showed us the secret tap. Great easy to make your money back in beer. Would recommend.
Great tour."
B
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Stella Artois Brewery is located in Leuven, Belgium. Visitors often arrive by train to Leuven station, which is a central hub. From there, it's a short taxi ride or a pleasant walk to the brewery. Public transport options within Leuven are also available.
Information on parking availability can vary. It's advisable to check the official Stella Artois Brewery website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date parking information, especially if you are driving.
Yes, the Stella Artois Brewery is easily accessible from Brussels. A train journey from Brussels to Leuven is frequent and takes approximately 20-30 minutes, making it a popular day trip destination.
Traveling by train to Leuven is highly recommended due to its convenience and frequency from major Belgian cities like Brussels and Antwerp. This avoids any parking hassles and allows you to relax on your journey.
Leuven itself is a charming city with many attractions, including the historic Grote Markt, the University Library, and various beguinages. The Stella Artois Brewery is often visited in conjunction with exploring these other sites.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tour prices can vary, but typically include the tour itself and several free tastings. It's best to check the official Stella Artois Brewery website for current pricing and booking information.
Yes, booking your Stella Artois brewery tour tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons or weekends, to secure your preferred time slot.
Opening hours for tours can vary by day and season. Always consult the official Stella Artois Brewery website for the most accurate and up-to-date tour schedules and operating hours.
As the tour involves alcohol tasting, there are typically age restrictions. Visitors must usually be of legal drinking age in Belgium (18 years or older) to participate in tastings.
A standard ticket usually includes a guided tour of the brewery, learning about its history and brewing process, and a set number of free beer tastings. Some tours may offer additional perks.
🎫 🍺 Onsite Experience
The Stella Artois brewing process emphasizes quality ingredients and traditional methods. While the full process is detailed on the tour, it involves malting, mashing, boiling, fermenting, and conditioning to create their signature lager.
Yes, it's common for breweries like Stella Artois to have a gift shop where you can purchase branded merchandise, including glasses, apparel, and other souvenirs.
During the tour, you'll typically get to taste various Stella Artois products, which may include their classic lager and potentially special or seasonal brews. Some reviews mention tasting a 10% ABV beer.
While the tour focuses on beer, the historical and cultural aspects might still be interesting. However, the tasting portion is central, so it's most enjoyable for those who appreciate beer.
The duration can vary, but many visitors report tours lasting around 1.5 to 2 hours, with a significant portion dedicated to presentations and tastings.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the primary focus is on beer tasting, some brewery locations may offer light snacks or have a bar menu. It's best to check the brewery's official website or inquire about food options when booking your tour.
Leuven is a vibrant city with numerous restaurants and cafes offering a wide range of cuisines. You'll find plenty of dining options within walking distance or a short ride from the brewery.
Generally, outside food is not permitted inside the brewery premises or during tours. It's advisable to dine before or after your visit.
Stella Artois, being a crisp lager, pairs well with a variety of foods, including seafood, chicken, salads, and lighter fare. Its refreshing quality can cut through richer flavors.
Leuven offers a diverse culinary scene, and you'll likely find restaurants with vegetarian and vegan options. Exploring local listings will help you find suitable choices.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed in most public areas of the brewery, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions, especially in production areas.
Look for opportunities to capture the historic architecture, brewing equipment, and, of course, the iconic Stella Artois branding. The bar area and exterior shots can also be picturesque.
During the tour, you'll likely see parts of the brewing process. While photos are usually permitted, be mindful of operational areas and any safety guidelines provided by your guide.
Keep an eye out for historical artifacts, unique brewing tanks, and the overall ambiance of the brewery. The 'secret tap' mentioned by some visitors could also make for an interesting photo.
A smartphone with good low-light capabilities is usually sufficient for capturing the atmosphere. If you have a DSLR, consider bringing a versatile lens to handle different lighting conditions and distances.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🍻 Beer Enthusiasts
✈️ Day-Trippers from Brussels
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Rich History of Stella Artois
While Stella Artois is now a globally recognized brand, brewed in various locations worldwide, its Belgian origins remain a significant part of its narrative. This heritage is often highlighted in marketing campaigns and is a key talking point during brewery tours, connecting visitors to the brand's enduring legacy. The iconic star in its logo is a direct reference to its historical naming.
Understanding this history provides context for the brand's premium positioning and its commitment to quality. Visitors to the Stella Artois Brewery can immerse themselves in this rich past, learning about the evolution of brewing and the enduring appeal of this classic Belgian lager.
Experiencing the Stella Artois Brewery Tour
Many visitors highlight the tasting portion of the tour as a major draw. You'll often have the opportunity to sample several Stella Artois beers, with some reviews mentioning the chance to try a higher ABV variety, making it a memorable experience. The post-tour bar is also a popular spot, where you can continue to enjoy drinks and get local recommendations from the staff. Some guests have noted that a significant part of the tour involves seated presentations before moving through the facility.
To make the most of your visit, booking in advance is recommended, and be prepared for an experience that blends history, brewing insights, and, of course, plenty of tasting. Photography is generally permitted, allowing you to capture the brewery's atmosphere and historical elements.
Stella Artois: Beyond the Brewery
The brand has a strong presence in popular culture, with various marketing campaigns and social media discussions often revolving around its consumption. Comparisons with other beers are common, with Stella Artois frequently pitted against rivals like Corona or Modelo in taste tests. Its distinctive bottle and branding also make it easily recognizable.
Beyond the classic lager, Stella Artois also offers variations like alcohol-free versions, which have also been reviewed. Whether enjoyed at the brewery, at home, or in a bar, Stella Artois continues to be a prominent name in the beer market, celebrated for its heritage and consistent quality.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit