Budapest: Brewery Tour at "First Craft Beer" & Beer Tasting

Exploring Budapest through a Beer Lens: The First Craft Beer Brewery Tour

Getting to know Budapest’s vibrant craft beer scene can be both exciting and educational, especially with a well-organized brewery tour like the one at First Craft Beer. This experience is perfect for those curious about brewing, beer enthusiasts eager to sample a variety of styles, or travelers looking for an authentic taste of Budapest’s modern brewing culture.

What makes this tour stand out? We’re talking about a modern, visually appealing brewery, a guided experience that covers everything from ingredients to brewing technology, and a generous tasting segment that lets you sample IPAs, sour beers, and more. The only potential downside? The tour’s duration is only an hour, which means it’s quite focused – if you’re craving a comprehensive brewery hop, you might want to combine it with other experiences.

If you enjoy learning behind-the-scenes stories, savoring diverse beer styles, and engaging with passionate brewers or staff, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially suited for adults over 18, beer lovers, and those seeking a relaxed, insight-packed activity in Budapest.

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Key Points

Authentic Brewing Insights: Learn about brewing ingredients, process, and technology.
Variety of Beers: Tasting includes IPAs, sour beers, and special small batches.
Educational and Fun: Explore the history of craft beer and the brewery’s story.
Flexible & Convenient: 1-hour guided tour with private group options and flexible cancellation.
Engaging Guides: Staff includes brewers, warehouse workers, and others, adding depth.
Good Value: Includes four beer tastings, malt and hop samples, and a tour in just an hour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Guide to the Budapest: Brewery Tour at First Craft Beer

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The Basics: What You’re Signing Up For

This 60-minute brewery tour takes place at First Craft Beer, a standout name in Budapest’s craft beer scene since 2017, with over 3 million liters brewed. The brewery’s modern setup immediately catches the eye — clean, innovative, and designed to make the brewing process transparent and educational. The tour is guided by staff fluent in Hungarian and English, ensuring clear explanations and lively conversation.

In terms of logistics, the starting point is inside the SelfStore courtyard at Váci út 83, specifically in the FIRST Taproom. You’ll enter via the car courtyard, which makes the meeting hassle-free, and the tour ends back at this spot, making it convenient for those with tight schedules or after-party plans.

What Makes the Tour Special?

This isn’t just a walk-through — it’s an interactive exploration. You’ll be led around by someone involved in the brewery’s daily operations, whether they’re a brewer, warehouse worker, or even part of the sales or finance team. This diversity adds layers to the experience; you get a glimpse of the business from different perspectives.

The focus on small batch beers, like their “made only once in a lifetime,” highlights their innovative spirit. The tour emphasizes how these limited editions are crafted, offering guests a taste of Hungarian ingenuity in brewing.

The Brewing Process and Ingredients

One of the most appreciated aspects, according to reviews, is the opportunity to taste malted barley and hops firsthand. This allows you to see and smell the raw materials that go into your favorite beers, making the tasting more meaningful. The guide explains the role of each ingredient, demystifying what can seem like complex brewing jargon.

You’ll also get to explore the machines and technologies used — from mash tuns to fermentation tanks. Travelers have noted that the visit covers all equipment clearly, with the guide pointing out how each piece contributes to the final product. It’s an educational experience for those interested in the craft behind their drinks.

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The Beer Tasting Experience

The core of this tour? The beer tasting. You’ll sample 4 x 2 dl beers, which is a generous amount for an hour-long activity. The selection often includes India Pale Ales (IPAs), fruited sour beers, and the brewery’s heavy-bodied barrel-aged brews. This variety showcases the breadth of their craft, from hop-forward styles to fruity, refreshing sours.

Guests have appreciated the variety, with one noting how “the IPAs were particularly well-crafted, with a perfect balance of bitterness and aroma,” and others enjoying the sour range for its inventive flavors. It’s a great way for beer lovers to expand their palate and discover new favorites.

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The Atmosphere and Guides

The atmosphere at First Craft Beer is described as modern, clean, and welcoming. The staff is knowledgeable and enthusiastic, eager to share their passion. Reviews mention that the guides “took the time to explain everything clearly,” making sure everyone felt engaged.

The brewery’s setup allows you to see the brewing process up close without feeling rushed. Being able to ask questions about specific brewing techniques or the story behind certain beers is a highlight for many.

Practical Tips for Tour-Day Planning

Timing: Tours start after 18:00 on weekdays and after 14:00 on Saturdays, so plan accordingly. Confirm availability beforehand, as timeslots can fill up.
Group Size: The activity is tailored for private groups, with a minimum of 3 people. For larger groups or special arrangements, it’s best to book in advance.
Cost & Value: Considering the included four beers, the tasting, and the educational aspect, the tour offers solid value. It’s a compact, quality experience perfect for those short on time but eager to learn.
Restrictions: The tour isn’t suitable for minors, pregnant women, or those over 70, and barefoot or audio recordings aren’t allowed—standard safety and privacy policies.

Why We Think It’s Worth It

This experience packs an educational punch, combined with a relaxed tasting session in one of Budapest’s most stylish breweries. It’s especially beneficial for beer aficionados wanting to deepen their understanding or travelers who enjoy a laid-back, behind-the-scenes look at how craft beer is made.

The fact that the brewery has been operational since 2017 and already made over 3 million liters speaks to their expertise and popularity. Sampling their small-batch offerings adds an exclusive touch that many other tours don’t include.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a quick, engaging, and tasty journey through Budapest’s craft beer scene, this tour fits like a glove. It’s ideal for adults looking for a cultural activity that combines learning and tasting, especially if you enjoy or want to learn more about the ingredients and machinery involved in brewing.

However, it’s probably less suitable for families with young children, pregnant women, or elderly travelers over 70. Still, for beer lovers, curious travelers, or those seeking an authentic local experience, it’s a fun, informative, and delicious activity.

Final Thoughts

This brewery tour offers a well-balanced peek into Budapest’s modern craft beer movement. The combination of interactive elements, a diverse beer lineup, and a friendly, knowledgeable guide makes it a standout activity for those who want more than just a tasting — they want to understand the craft behind it.

With only an hour needed, it’s perfect for a quick cultural break or as part of a broader Budapest exploration. The included tastings are generous, and the chance to see the brewing equipment up close adds a valuable layer of insight. Whether you’re a seasoned beer drinker or just curious about how craft beers are made, this experience delivers both fun and education in equal measure.

In short: this tour is a smart pick for travelers seeking a relaxed, authentic, and delicious taste of Budapest’s craft beer scene — with a side of brewing wisdom.

FAQ

What is the duration of the brewery tour?
The tour lasts 1 hour, making it a concise yet informative experience perfect for fitting into a busy schedule.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins inside the SelfStore courtyard at Váci út 83, in the FIRST Taproom, and concludes back at the same spot for convenience.

Is this tour suitable for children or minors?
No, unaccompanied minors and those under 18 are not allowed, as it involves alcohol tasting.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts.

What beers are typically included in the tasting?
Guests generally taste a selection of IPAs, fruited sour beers, and some of the brewery’s special small batch and barrel-aged beers.

Is the tour available in English?
Yes, the guides speak both Hungarian and English, ensuring clear communication and a friendly atmosphere.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended to secure your preferred time slot, especially for private groups with a minimum of three people.

This guide should help you decide whether the Budapest: Brewery Tour at First Craft Beer fits your travel plans. It’s a chance to enjoy a quick yet meaningful dive into Hungary’s craft beer culture, guided by passionate locals and served with plenty of tasting opportunities.