Vilnius isn’t just about its stunning architecture and lively streets; it’s also a city that takes its drinking culture seriously. Whether you’re into craft beer, local spirits, or secret bars, Vilnius offers a range of tours that promise authentic, fun, and sometimes surprising experiences. We particularly like the Bear & Boar Brewery Taproom for its intimate beer degustation and the Vilnius Private Pub & Bar Crawl to uncover hidden spots. Both tours highlight how Lithuanian drinks are crafted and enjoyed in local settings, making your visit more meaningful.
If you want a taste of the local brewing scene, the Bear & Boar Brewery Taproom offers a relaxed, educational experience with the best craft beer degustation in Vilnius. For an evening of exploration and culture, the Vilnius: Pub Crawl with Welcome Drink and Traditional Snacks is perfect. These tours give a chance to sample Lithuanian spirits, learn about local traditions, and soak in the city’s lively nightlife.
1. Bear & Boar Brewery Taproom (Half degustation)
At number 1, we have the Bear & Boar Brewery Taproom (Half degustation), which stands out for its top-rated craft beer degustation—scoring a solid 4.8 out of 5 from just four reviews. This tour is ideal for beer lovers eager to learn about Lithuanian brewing traditions in an approachable setting. You’ll visit the brewery situated in Visaginas, and the tasting itself includes a selection of the brewery’s best beers, explained by knowledgeable staff.
The experience lasts around 2 hours, making it a perfect stop if you want a quick but satisfying dive into Lithuanian craft beer. The staff’s enthusiasm and willingness to answer questions make this session both educational and enjoyable. Reviewers rave about the welcoming atmosphere and authentic flavors, with one calling it “the true highlight of Vilnius.” It’s an ideal choice for anyone seeking a relaxed, informal tasting that emphasizes quality and local craftsmanship. The downside? Since it’s a short degustation, serious beer fans might want the full experience.
Bottom Line: If craft beer is your thing, this is a must-do. It’s well-rated, informative, and all about the best Lithuanian brews.
2. Vilnius: Pub Crawl with Welcome Drink and Traditional Snacks
Number 2 on our list is the Vilnius: Pub Crawl with Welcome Drink and Traditional Snacks, a lively 3-hour tour that promises fun and discovery. Starting with a welcome drink, you’ll visit three different bars, each with its own character and atmosphere. Along the way, you’ll sample smoked fish, a Lithuanian delicacy, and enjoy a curated selection of local snacks.
What makes this tour stand out is its balance of social fun and cultural insight. The guide shares stories about Vilnius’s drinking traditions and points out hidden bars you might never find on your own. Two bars feature tasting of local spirits, adding depth to the experience. Reviews praise the personable guide and the authentic local vibe, though some mention the price as a bit high for what’s included.
This tour suits those who want to socialize and learn about Lithuania’s drinking culture while exploring the city’s nightlife. It’s flexible and personable, perfect for first-timers or groups wanting a relaxed night with plenty of local flavor.
Bottom Line: A lively, social way to explore Vilnius’s bar scene and enjoy Lithuanian snacks and spirits in a friendly setting.
3. Vilnius: Private Beer Tour & Tasting
Position 3 is the Vilnius: Private Beer Tour & Tasting, a tailored experience that offers a deep dive into Lithuanian brewing history and its role in daily life. For around $1,049 per group (up to four people), you get a three-hour guided tour that combines history with tasting. The guide takes you to a local small brewery to see how beer is made, then introduces you to several pubs for tastings.
What makes this tour distinctive is its personalized approach. The guide explains how beer is intertwined with Lithuanian culture and shares insights into local brewing techniques. Plus, the tour features a fascinating hologram about a relic, adding a unique visual element. Visitors praise the guide for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience memorable.
This is ideal for serious beer enthusiasts who want a private, detailed experience. The price reflects its exclusivity, which makes it better suited for small groups or couples. A potential drawback is the cost, which might not appeal to casual drinkers.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking an in-depth, private look at Lithuania’s beer scene with a mix of history and tasting.
4. Bear & Boar Brewery Taproom (Entire degustation)
At number 4, the Bear & Boar Brewery Taproom (Entire degustation) offers a full-day experience with an extended tasting session. This tour builds on their half degustation, providing a comprehensive look at their craft beers. The experience allows you to sample a broader range of beers and receive detailed info about the brewing process.
What makes this stand out is the 5-star rating and its reputation as the best craft beer degustation in Vilnius. Reviewers repeatedly describe it as “amazing,” and the brewery’s welcoming staff make it easy for visitors to ask questions. The tour is flexible in timing, making it a good choice for those who want to take their time and savor each beer.
This experience is best suited for those who want a relaxed, in-depth beer tasting without rushing. The main drawback might be the length and potential for overindulgence, so plan accordingly.
Bottom Line: For beer aficionados craving a detailed, full-day degustation, this tour delivers a top-tier experience.
5. Vilnius: Beer Tasting Experience with Snack Platter
Number 5 features a 2-hour Beer Tasting Experience with Snack Platter, perfect for those new to craft beer or wanting a relaxed introduction. You’ll taste four different beers, each explained with insights into brewing techniques and flavor profiles. The experience also includes a delicious local snack platter to complement the drinks.
This tour emphasizes understanding beer styles and appreciating flavors, making it ideal for beginners or casual drinkers. Guests find the combination of beer and local snacks enjoyable, with some saying it helped them discover new favorites. The guide shares practical information about ingredients and brewing, enhancing your appreciation.
While the price isn’t specified here, the value lies in the quality of the tasting and the insights gained. It’s a good choice for a quick, educational, and tasty experience.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, beginner-friendly beer tasting with tasty snacks, great for those seeking an introduction to craft beer.
6. Vilnius Private Pub & Bar Crawl Tour & Hidden Gems
Our final pick is the Vilnius Private Pub & Bar Crawl Tour & Hidden Gems, a 3-hour adventure perfect for explorers who want to see the city’s lesser-known bars. Led by a friendly local, you’ll visit secret pubs, lively haunts, and even some historical sites—all with a welcome drink included.
What makes this tour special is its focus on hidden bars and authentic local drinks**. It’s an excellent way to get a feel for Vilnius’s true nightlife scene, beyond tourist spots. Reviewers mention it as “great value,” with many revisiting favorite places afterward. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a fun, intimate experience with an insider’s perspective.
Potential drawbacks? If you prefer structured tastings or specific spirits, this tour might feel more casual and spontaneous. Still, it’s perfect for those who enjoy discovering the city’s quirkiest spots.
Bottom Line: For a lively, personalized night out exploring Vilnius’s secret bar scene, this tour is hard to beat.
How to Choose the Right Drinking Tour in Vilnius
When deciding which tour to book, consider your budget, interests, and how much time you want to spend exploring. For a focused beer tasting experience, the Bear & Boar Brewery Taproom (either half or full degustation) offers great value and quality. If you’re after a social night with local bites and spirits, the pub crawl or hidden bar tour will give you a lively, authentic feel. For those wanting a more personalized or in-depth exploration, the private beer tour provides a tailored experience.
Think about your fitness level and social preferences—group tours are fantastic for mingling, while private experiences suit quiet, intimate evenings. Booking early is recommended, especially in summer or during weekends, to secure your spot.
If craft beer is your main goal, the full-day degustation at Bear & Boar or the guided private beer tour are top picks. For a more casual, social night, the pub crawl or hidden bar tour will bring you closer to Vilnius’s lively nightlife.
Final Thoughts
Vilnius offers a surprisingly diverse array of drinking tours that can suit almost any traveler—whether you’re a dedicated beer connoisseur, a curious newcomer, or someone who simply wants to enjoy good drinks with local flavor. The Bear & Boar Brewery and Vilnius Private Pub & Bar Crawl stand out as excellent options for different tastes, with other tours filling in the gaps with educational insights or secret spots.
No matter which you choose, booking in advance and planning your tour around your travel schedule will ensure you make the most of Vilnius’s vibrant drinking culture. Cheers to discovering Lithuania’s spirited side!