Even though the extended Early Bird Discount ended on May 30th and the Paid-In-Full discount ended on July 6th, you can still save $600 with our last-minute booking bonus discount code, and your beercation is booked by July 31, 2026.
SAVE $600 PER PERSON when you enter BELGIUM2026 at checkout.
Come explore the world one pint (or chalice) at a time with us on Pub Culture Beercations’ Ultimate Belgian Beercation! From September 9–22, 2026, we’re diving deep into the heart of Belgium’s legendary beer culture across 13 unforgettable nights. Starting in vibrant Brussels and winding through Ghent, Brugge, Ypres, Namur, Houffalize, and Antwerp, this journey is crafted for those who crave not just great beer but the rich stories, history, and camaraderie that make every sip meaningful.
Immerse yourself in Belgium’s world-class breweries, including iconic stops at Duvel, Cantillon, Westvleteren, St. Bernardus, Van Steenberge (with a special VIP Ambassador Experience), Chimay, Fantôme, La Chouffe, and more.
We’ll raise glasses in cozy pubs and lively beer bars, savoring the flavors that have defined Belgian brewing for centuries — all while traveling comfortably by private coach (with cold beers and good company on board, of course!).
But this beercation goes beyond the brews. We’ll honor Belgium’s profound WWI and WWII heritage with poignant visits to Ypres’ In Flanders Fields Museum, the moving Menin Gate, and Tyne Cot Cemetery. We’ll also trace the footsteps of American soldiers — including Easy Company from the “Band of Brothers” — through the storied landscapes of the Battle of the Bulge in the Ardennes.
We’re especially thrilled to welcome two incredible beer lovers and storytellers joining us: Tim Skelton, author of the 9th edition of CAMRA’s Good Beer Guide Belgium, and popular food, beer, and travel content creator Ashlee McLaughlan, “The Beer Mama.” Their insights will add even more depth and joy to our shared adventures.
Whether you’re a longtime Belgian beer devotee or simply ready for an unforgettable journey filled with laughter, discovery, and perfectly poured pints, this is your invitation to create lasting memories with a warm, welcoming group of fellow explorers.
Spots are limited — secure yours and let’s toast to Belgium together!
DOWNLOAD A CLASSIC PRINTABLE VERSION OF THE BEERCATION ITINERARY BY CLICKING HERE!
Tim Skelton is an award-winning beer and travel writer, global explorer, and one of the foremost authorities on Dutch beer culture. A British-born Dutchman, he has called the Netherlands home since 1989 and has spent more than three decades discovering local life through the bottom of a perfectly poured glass. (He’s still grateful to whoever first swapped his pils for a Duvel that fateful weekend!)
Tim’s wife Amanda shares his deep passion for beer and was a willing companion through years of joyful “arduous research.” Together with his extensive travels — more than five years on the road across nearly 100 countries on every continent except Antarctica — Tim brings a wealth of stories, insight, and infectious enthusiasm to every journey.
A longtime friend and supporter of Pub Culture Beercations, Tim has authored several outstanding books, including three on Dutch beer, a travel guide to Luxembourg, and the newly updated 9th edition of CAMRA’s Good Beer Guide Belgium. He has contributed to numerous beer and travel guides, magazines, and websites, and even gave Pub Culture Beercations a wonderful shout-out in his book Beer in the Netherlands 2.
This marks Tim’s second full beercation with us (following the sold-out 2023 “Going Dutch: Beer in the Netherlands with Tim Skelton”), and we’re absolutely delighted to have him back sharing his vast knowledge, favorite hidden gems, and great company once again. You may even catch him signing a book or two along the way!
CAMRA’s Good Beer Guide Belgium (9th Edition)
The definitive, completely independent guide to one of the world’s great beer destinations. Fully revised and updated, this essential companion showcases over 1,500 Belgian beers, the 400+ brewers and lambic blenders who craft them, and 650 of the very best places to enjoy them — from cozy cafés and specialist beer bars to brewery taps and world-renowned festivals.
Whether you’re planning your next Belgian adventure or simply deepening your appreciation for the country’s legendary brewing heritage, this celebrated guide remains the gold standard. As Tim Skelton notes after decades of exploration: “I thought I knew everything… but researching this new edition still led me to undiscovered beery gems.”
“Undoubtedly the best book on its subject on the market.” — Rough Guide to Belgium & Luxembourg
Click the links below to purchase a copy.
Dive deep into the heart of Europe’s most celebrated beer regions.
Tim’s books uncover centuries-old brewing traditions, iconic breweries, and local favourites you won’t find in typical guides. From Trappist ales to modern craft innovations, you’ll discover what makes these countries true beer destinations. Tim combines passion, expertise, and firsthand experience to create guides that are both informative and enjoyable to read. Whether you’re planning your next trip or simply exploring from home, these books offer real value and inspiration.
Beer in the Netherlands 2: Published in 2020, this remains the world’s only comprehensive guide to the Dutch beer scene, featuring personal reviews of around 700 breweries & beer companies, thousands of beers, and more than 550 specialist cafés.
Around Amsterdam in 80 Beers 2: Published in 2015. The second edition of this hugely popular pub guide is an even better way to explore Amsterdam by taking in 80 different beers in 80 of its finest cafés. Be our guest as we lead you on the inside track through one of Europe’s most exciting cities, but try not to do them all in one day!
The Bradt Guide to Luxembourg: Now in its 5th edition. The only comprehensive and opinionated English-language guide to focus exclusively on this gem of a destination.
Beer in the Netherlands: One for the collectors. Originally published in 2014, the world’s first comprehensive guide to the new Dutch beer scene offers an insider’s personal review of 180+ breweries, 1000+ beers, and hundreds of bier cafés and take-home suppliers. Includes the 24-page 2016 update supplement.
Around Amsterdam in 80 Beers: The original first edition of this iconic pub guide. First published in 2010. What better way to explore Amsterdam than by taking in a few beers in its finest cafés
You can find Tim's books for purchase here -> SkeltonInk.eu
Ashlee McLaughlin, widely known as The Beer Mama (@thebeermama), is a passionate Maine-based content creator, former chef, forager, plant lover, and nationally recognized beer expert specializing in craft beer, food, travel, and lifestyle.
A naturalized Mainer with roots in Italy, Ashlee has become a beloved trailblazer in the Portland craft beer scene. She’s known for championing local Maine businesses, uncovering hidden gems across New England, and sharing her adventures in foraging, outdoor living, and great beer with warmth, humor, and authenticity.
This marks her second “collabeeration” with Pub Culture Beercations (after joining us on the 2025 Italian Beercation). Fun fact: her “ah-ha!” beer moment was none other than Gulden Draak from Brouwerij Van Steenberge — one of the highlights of our Ultimate Belgian Beercation!
We’re excited to have Ashlee back with us, sharing her infectious energy, insider knowledge, and love for great beer and memorable experiences.
To follow Ashlee, click here -> The Beer Mama
13-nights in centrally located, 3 or 4-star hotels with complimentary breakfast daily
(See add-on options for additional “Early Arrival” night in Mechelen at Het Anker Brewery, before the tour starts)
Including 1-2 drinks and gratuity
Including 2-3 drinks and gratuity
Happy Hour Toast including appetizers and 2 drinks
Travel by private coach. (complimentary beer, soft drinks, and water provided on the bus.)
Visit no less than 10 breweries, including; Cantilon, Van Steenberge (Gulden Draak), Huisbrouwerij De Halve Maan, Westvleteren, St. Bernardus, Omer Vander Ghinste, Chimay, A'Chouffe, Duvel, and Fantome, with many more optional breweries you can visit along the route, or that are an included lunch or dinner.
Visit the Memorial Museum Passchendaele 1917, the Flanders Field WWI Museum, the Menin Gate, and Tyne Cot Cemetery
Beyond information about WWII on our walking tours, take a guided tour of Bastogne and the Battle of the Bulge with Henri Mignon from Battle of the Bulge Tours.
All gratuities for group leaders, walking tour guides, brewery tour guides, and your coach driver are already included.
Beercationers need to book their own round-trip airfare. We recommend Brussels (BRU) Airport, but you might choose Paris (CDG) or Amsterdam (AMS), and then take a train to Brussels, or Mechelen for the Early Arrival.
(Including alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks) Not included on the itinerary
Excursions or activities listed as "optional" on the itinerary.
(Recommended) See the Terms & Agreements for more details.
Many of our beercationers will choose to arrive at least one day before the start of their "Ultimate Belgian Beercation" with Pub Culture Beercation to compensate for delays should they experience problems while traveling to Belgium, and to help reduce the possibility of jet lag by allowing them to get a good night’s sleep before “Day 1” of the tour.
Please note - Pub Culture Beercation participants are responsible for booking and purchasing their own flights. Also, any additional days prior to the scheduled “Day 1” are not included in your cost. Participants arriving early will be responsible for any travel arrangements, reservations, and payments for hotels and any other additional costs associated with arriving before the official start of the tour, unless they purchase our Early Arrival Add On where we will handle your hotel reservation for the night before the official start of the tour assuring you will not have to change rooms, as well as taking care of dinner reservations that evening.
(The last day to depart for Brussels is September 8, 2026)
Arrival at Brussels Airport (BRU)
Brussels-National Airport
If you choose to arrive on the day of, make sure your flight arrives early enough to get to the Holiday Inn Express Brussels-Grand-Place to drop your bags and arrive at our first event – The Beercation Welcome Toast at 3:00PM!
After arriving at the Brussels International Airport, you will need to arrange transportation to Holiday Inn Express Brussels Grand Place, check in, and prepare for the first event of your beercation.
You can take a direct train from BRU Airport to Bruxelles-Central (Brussels Central Station) every 15-20 minutes for around €9–12, and it will take you about 20-25 minutes. Tickets can be purchased at the airport train station or via the SNCB International (Official Belgian Railways) app.
iOS (App Store): SNCB International on the App Store
Android (Google Play): SNCB International on Google Play
Then, from Central Station, it is a 5-10 minute walk to the hotel.
You can also grab a taxi or hail a ride-share with Uber or Bolt. The drive will take 25-40 minutes, depending on traffic, and cost around €35–55 for door-to-door service.
There is also a bus you can take from the BRU Airport to the city center, which is much cheaper - about €3–€5, but slower and less convenient with luggage.
After you land at Brussels International Airport, and if you have opted not to book the Early Arrival Add-On, you will need to make your way to our first hotel of the tour. If you arrive before September 9th, extra nights can be booked directly with the hotel.
A “Day Zero” Early Arrival package can be added to your beercation during the initial booking or after you have booked your spots for an additional cost per person.
Arriving one night before the start of the tour? Add a night at the Brouwerij Het Anker Hotel, an afternoon beer tour, and a 3-course beer-paired dinner.
What better way to acclimate yourself to the trip!
With just a quick ride from the airport by train or taxi, arrive in Mechelen, Belgium, home of Brouwerij Het Anker.
Hotel Brouwerij Het Anker (also called Het Anker Hotel or Carolus Hotel) is a unique brewery hotel located right on the site of the historic Brouwerij Het Anker in Mechelen, Belgium. It’s often described as Belgium’s only (or first) operating brewery hotel, offering guests the chance to stay amid active brewing operations in a 15th-century brewery setting.
Experience the charm of Brewery Het Anker, where tradition meets taste. Delight in house-brewed beers and savor authentic Belgian dishes in a cozy setting.
After our beer-paired dinner at Het Anker, you will have time to explore Mechelen and some of the cities great beer bars!
You have a free morning to relax or explore Mechelen, Belgium.
The next morning, all beercationers who booked the Early Arrival Add-On will make our way from Mechelen to Brussels, and to the Holiday Inn Express Grand Place, where the Ultimate Belgian Beercation officially starts and spends the first two nights.
Welcome to the heart of Brussels, and our home base for the start of your unforgettable Belgian Beercation, the Holiday Inn Express Brussels-Grand-Place!
Raise a glass with us during the Welcome Toast at 3pm as we kick off your adventure with local brews and great company. Then join us this evening for the Beercation Welcome Dinner, where you’ll savor authentic Belgian cuisine paired with world-renowned beers in a festive atmosphere.
From the iconic Grand-Place just steps away to brewery tours, tastings, and hidden beer gems across the city, your journey into Belgium’s legendary beer culture begins right here.
Cheers to unforgettable memories!
Join your fellow beercationers at the world-famous Delirium Cafe to officially begin your Ultimate Belgian Beercation with a Welcome Toast!
Delirium in Brussels is renowned for its extensive beer selection, boasting over 2,000 varieties.
The vibrant atmosphere and lively décor create an inviting space to unwind. Located centrally, it features a large outdoor terrace, perfect for enjoying the famous Delirium Tremens and unique beer-themed events.
After our Welcome Toast, you will have a few hours to explore the area around our hotel before joining the rest of the group for our Welcome Dinner.
After dinner, you can make the most of our first night in Brussels, finding great beer bars and cocktail bars in the area around Grande Place, or you can choose to head back to the hotel and relax and prepare for Day 2 of the Ultimate Belgian Beercation.
Click the link to use your exclusive PubCulture.Beer Brussels Digital Map and find great beer bars and classic pubs around Brussels, as well as points of interest, restaurants, chocolatiers, and other shops.
Begin your day with a walking tour of Brussels, departing from our hotel lobby at 10am, and stroll through iconic locations like the amazing Grand Place, famous Manneken Pis, and historic streets that tell centuries of stories.
After our walking tour, we will enjoy a group lunch before heading to the legendary Cantillon Brewery in the afternoon—a living museum of traditional lambic brewing where spontaneous fermentation and oak-aged beers like Gueuze and Kriek come to life.
The remainder of your day is free to explore Brussels.
Use your PubCulture.Beer digital Brussels Map to find nearby points of interest, classic beer bars such as À la Mort Subite and more modern beer bars like Moeder Lambic, and the perfect spots for dinner—whether it's traditional Belgian fare paired with rare brews or cozy local favorites, there is no shortage of amazing restaurants, and don't forget the Belgian Chocolatiers!
Complimentary breakfast included.
After about an hour and a half into our walking tour, we will stop at Moeder Lambic for a beer and a little Belgian pre-lunch appetizer.
At Moeder Lambic Fontainas, you'll find an impressive selection of Belgian craft beers paired with artisanal snacks.
After finishing out walking tour we will arrive at BBP Bailli. Brussels Beer Project offers a diverse selection of craft beers on tap, making it a perfect spot for a beercation lunch!
We will leave from Cantilion and return to the Holiday Inn Express Brussels Grand Place. The rest of your day is free to enjoy our last night in Brussels.
Use your PubCulture.Beer Digital Brussels Map again to find your way around the Belgian capital city this evening. Share your location in the group WhatsApp Chat, or see where your fellow Belgian beercationers are, and meet up for a beer!
After fueling up at the hotel's breakfast buffet, we will board our private "Ultimate Beercation Coach" and head to Ghent for three unforgettable nights of Belgian beer bliss, but not before we stop at the iconic Brouwerij Huyghe (home of the world-famous Delirium Tremens and its playful pink elephant mascot) for a brewery tour and guided tasting of their acclaimed lineup.
After our tour and tasting we will continue on to Ghent and check into our hotel, where you will have a few hours to wander the area around our hotel, Ghent's medieval city center, and grab lunch of you are hungry.
This afternoon, we will take our private coach to Brouwerij Van Steenberge for an exclusive VIP “Ambassador Experience” available only from Pub Culture Beercations, as our owner and your tour guide, Chris Bettini, was the first Gulden Draak US Ambassador in 2012!
6th-generation owner and brewer Jef Versele will personally guide you through this legendary brewery for an unforgettable private tour and tasting.
After our tasting, we will head up the road to HopSpot.Be for a spectacular beer-paired dinner featuring even more outstanding Van Steenberge brews—an unforgettable introduction to Flemish beer culture.
Check out of your rooms and be ready to depart by 9:00AM.
Rooms may not be ready when we arrive, in which case we will drop our bags into luggage storage and =you will have time to wander, grab a little lunch, or sit on a terrace and have a beer until 3:00PM, when you will stop back to the hotel and get checked into your room.
(If rooms are ready when we arrive, you will have until 4pm.)
After our tour and tasting with Jef, we will make the short walk to HopSpot.Be, Brouwerij Van Steenberge's new microbrewery and farm-to-table restaurant, for a deer-paired dinner.
After we return to the hotel, your first night in Ghent doesn't have to come to an end, as it's a Friday night and Ghent's lively nightlife is just getting started!
From classic beer bars to live music venues to cocktail bars or a wild night of dancing, Ghent has it all to offer!
Still looking for more on a Friday night? Fire up your PubCulture.Beer Digital Ghent Map and find classic beer bars, cocktail bars, and live music spots to keep the fun going - besides, you have a free morning tomorrow!
After your VIP Ambassador Experience at Brouwerij Van Steenberge and plenty of Gulden Draak, you have a free day in Ghent.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel (included) or sleep in and recharge – you’ve earned it!
We’ll regroup for lunch featuring Waterzooi, Ghent’s iconic creamy stew – the perfect gentle dish if you’re still feeling the effects of yesterday’s beers.
Use your PubCulture.Beer Ghent Digital Map to uncover top points of interest—like the stunning Graslei waterfront, Gravensteen Castle, and the Belfry (home of the original Gulden Draak!) and spend the day wandering Ghent’s stunning medieval streets, canals, and historic sites at your own pace.
Or, if you are looking to maximize the "Ultimate" in your Belgian Beercation experience, take an optional visit to the De Struise Brouwers taproom to try their award-winning, experimental, high-ABV Belgian craft beers.
Tonight, discover how Ghent's student population adds a vibrant nightlife to the incredible classic Belgian beer scene and embark on a DIY pub crawl (again using your exclusive digital Ghent map) through some of Belgium’s best beer bars, including legendary spots like Dulle Griet (with its massive beer list and iconic shoe-in-a-basket tradition), Het Waterhuis aan de Bierkant, Trollekelder, and Gruut Brewery for their unique gruit-herb beers.
Cheers to golden ales, canal-side pints, and the warm hospitality of Ghent on a Saturday night!
Creamy, comforting, and deeply satisfying, Gentse Waterzooi is the ultimate Flemish comfort food—a rich stew of tender chicken (or fish), fresh vegetables, potatoes, and a velvety broth enriched with cream and egg yolks.
At De Rechters, it’s prepared with care and served in generous portions, the perfect hearty antidote to a memorable evening of Belgian beer tasting and brewery hospitality.
Pair it with golden fries and a crisp local beer for the full experience.
Join your fellow Belgium Beercation travelers for an optional Saturday Night Pub Crawl to three popular beer bars.
(On your own for beers.)
Rise at your own pace on this free Sunday morning in beautiful Ghent — breakfast is included at the hotel, so fuel up for whatever adventures call your name. Wander the city’s stunning medieval streets, canals, and landmarks at leisure; perhaps even take in a Sunday mass at one of Ghent’s iconic historic churches for a touch of local culture.
In the afternoon, we’ll dive into several of Ghent’s vibrant microbreweries, starting the explorations with a lively group lunch at Dok Brewing Company.
Your evening is delightfully free once more — fire up your PubCulture.Beer Digital Ghent Map to scout and reserve the perfect spot for a memorable Sunday dinner, perfectly paired with outstanding Belgian beers.
Sleep in, or get up early and explore Ghent. Those interested in Catholic Mass, several churches are nearby on a Sunday Morning.
Check out the Sunday markets, such as the Flower Market at Kouter Square, Book Market on Ajuinlei, or the Flea Market / Bric-a-Brac at Bij Sint-Jacobs (Prondelmarkt).
Most non-tourist shops will likely be closed, but cafes, bakeries, and chocolatiers should be open. Even just finding a terrace for some post-breakfast relaxation and a nice coffee - or beer - is another great way to spend your morning!
After your free morning, meet at Dok Brewery for our beer tasting and group lunch. After Dok, we will make our way to several other Ghent breweries (optional) on the way back to the hotel.
12:00PM - Meet in Hotel Lobby
12:10PM - Depart from Hotel Lobby. Walk to Gent Lange Steenstraat (Vrouwebroersstraat) tram stop. (About 8 minutes)
12:25PM - Take Tram T4 (Ghent UZ) to Ghent Helolog-Kerst (3 Stops - 3 minutes)
12:28PM - Arrive at Ghent Heilig-Kerst Tram Stop
12:35PM Arrive at Dok Brewing Company
(You can also take the T4 tram at 12:08PM and arrive at Dok Brewing around 12:20PM)
At Dok Brewing Company, craft beer enthusiasts can delight in fresh brews made on-site, paired with local snacks.
The spacious terrace offers a welcoming outdoor space to enjoy drinks, while seasonal selections and unique brewing techniques promise a distinctive tasting experience. Regular collaborations with local artisans add to the charm.
After lunch, if you choose to not to join the optional Ghent Brewery Crawl, or choose to do it on your own, your day is free
If you do choose to participate in the brewery crawl, we will wrap up at our final brewery when they close at 6:00PM.
After our group lunch at Dok Brewing Company, join fellow beercationers for an optional brewery taproom pub crawl to visit three more small, local Ghentese breweries.
(Beers on your own)
2:00PM - Finish at Dok Brewing
2:10PM - Walk to Gent Stapelplein Tram Stop (about 8 minutes)
2:20PM - Take Tram 6 (Gent Zuid) to Ghent Eendrachtstraat (5 minutes - 4 stops)
2:25PM - Arrive at Ghent Eendrachtstraat
2:30PM - Arrive at Stroom Brewery (about 5 min walk)
3:00PM - Depart from Stroom Brewery for Gent Keizerpoort (Brusselsepoortstraat) tram stop. (Walk about 12 minutes)
3:44PM - Take Tram T2 (Gent Van Beverenplein) from Gent Korenmarkt perron 3 (8 minutes - 5 stops)
3:52PM - Arrive at Gent Korenmarkt perron 3 - Walk to Ghent Gruut Brewery (about 15 minutes)
4:15PM - Arrive at Ghent Gruut Brewery
It's a quick 7-8-minute walk from the Ghent Gruut Brewery to the Artvelde Brewery.
Use your PubCulture.Beer Ghent Digital Map to make the most out of your last day in Ghent. From points of interest to beer bars and restaurants, this medieval city is yours to discover!
After grabbing breakfast at our hotel, we depart the beauty of Ghent and make our way to Brugge, but on the way, we will stop at the iconic Rodenbach Brewery for an unforgettable morning of tours, expert-led beer tastings, and a delicious beer-paired lunch featuring the brewery’s world-renowned Flemish sour ales.
After checking into our hotel in Brugge, the afternoon and evening are yours to explore using your PubCulture.Beer Digital Brugge Map.
Wander cobblestone lanes to discover breathtaking points of interest, renowned chocolatiers crafting exquisite Belgian pralines, traditional lace shops, and top-rated restaurants for an unforgettable dinner.
After the hordes of day-trippers depart, check out some of the city's legendary beer bars on your own, or join fellow beercationers for an optional Brugge beer bar pub crawl.
When we arrive in Bruge, we will get checked into our rooms for the next two nights, then the rest of your afternoon and evening is free to explore Bruges.
Use your PubCulture.Beer Bruges Digital Map and discover points of interest, amazing beer bars, delicious restaurants, and decadent chocolatiers as you enjoy this picturesque Belgian city after the day tourists have left for the day.
Meet up with your fellow Belgian beercationers for an options, informal Belgian Beer Bar Pub Crawl tonight starting at 8:00PM.
Start your day with a delicious included breakfast at the hotel before departing the lobby at 10am for a delightful short walking tour through the fairy-tale streets of Brugge—Europe’s most perfectly preserved medieval gem, complete with winding canals, historic architecture, and that unmistakable old-world charm.
Next, immerse yourself in Belgian brewing heritage with a guided tour and tasting at the iconic Brouwerij De Halve Man (the Half Moon Brewery), home of the beloved Brugse Zot and Straffe Hendrik, where you’ll discover the family legacy, climb for stunning city views, and savor fresh, authentic pours straight from the source.
The rest of your afternoon is delightfully free to wander at your own pace—perhaps exploring chocolate shops, lace boutiques, or simply soaking in the romantic atmosphere.
As evening arrives, reunite with your fellow beercationers for a lively group dinner, then grab your PubCulture.Beer Digital Brugge Map to venture out and uncover the city’s legendary classic beer bars.
At Huisbrouwerij De Halve Maan, enjoy a delightful selection of house-brewed beers and indulge in local cuisine in a cozy setting.
Use your PubCulture.Beer Bruges Digital Map to find great beer bars, chocolate shops, lace boutiques, or just wandering the romantic streets and canals of the city. You will also find recommended restaurants for dinner, which you may want to reserve if they are small or popular.
This evening, join your fellow beercationers for an optional Bruges Pub Crawl to a few popular classic beer bars
Meet up with your fellow Belgiaun Beercationers for our optional Pub Crawl.
Walking. It is about a 15-minute walk from the hotel.
Public Transportation. If you would like to take public transportation, you can take the #2 Bus. (cost to ride not included)
7:45PM - Depart from our hotel for the Brugge 't Zand Perron A (Platform A) bus stop. (about 4-minute walk)
7:52PM - Take Bus #2 (P&R Coisseaukaai) to Brugge Stadsschouwburg Perron 1 (8 minutes - 5 stops)
8:00PM - Arrive at Brugge Stadsschouwburg Perron 1
8:01 - arrive at le Trappiste
At 9:00PM, make sure any tabs are closed so we can be at our next stop on time.
Walk to Café Rose Red (4-5 minute walk away)
Café Rose Red offers a charming atmosphere with a cozy interior that invites guests to relax. The diverse menu showcases local Belgian specialties, complemented by a selection of unique craft beers sourced from the region. With a focus on organic ingredients and a seasonal menu, this establishment is a delightful culinary stop in Brugge.
Another short walk (4-5 minutes) to our third stop, the late-night 't Poatersgat (the Monk's Hole)!
't Poatersgat is a late-night beer bar (open until 2AM!) that offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, complemented by friendly staff dedicated to providing excellent service.
You may have already visited, as not only does 't Poatersgat have an amazing selection of specialty beers, but it also has a seasonal menu featuring fresh ingredients. This dining spot reflects the charm and history of the area.
Start your day with a hearty included breakfast at the hotel before departing at 8:45am for an unforgettable WWI-focused day in the historic heart of Belgium.
First, immerse yourself in the story of the Battle of Passchendaele at the Memorial Museum Passchendaele 1917. Then, refuel with a memorable lunch at In de Verde, home of the “World’s Best Beer,” Westvleteren, from the Abbey de St. Sixtus, where exceptional Belgian brews pair perfectly with hearty fare.
On the way to Ypres, pay your respects at the moving Tyne Cot Cemetery. After checking into your hotel, the rest of the day is yours to explore this charming city using your Culture.Beer Digital Ypres Map—uncovering classic beer bars and perfect dinner spots along the way.
Don’t miss the poignant “Last Post” ceremony at the iconic Menin Gate, a daily tribute that captures the region's profound history and spirit.
We will depart Brugge for our first stop on our WWI Tour Day, the Memorial Museum Passchendaele 1917.
In de Vrede invites you to enjoy a selection of local beers and freshly prepared Belgian cuisine in a warm atmosphere. Located near the Westvleteren Trappist brewery, it offers unique beer-tasting experiences and seasonal menus that celebrate local ingredients. Come and savor the essence of Belgium!
Tyne Cot Cemetery & Visitors Centre is the largest Commonwealth War Graves Commission cemetery, featuring over 11,000 graves and a memorial wall for over 35,000 missing soldiers.
The site offers a peaceful atmosphere and a Visitors Centre that provides deep insights into World War I history, making it a poignant destination for reflection and remembrance.
After checking into our hotel, the rest of your evening is free to enjoy Ypres's slower pace.
Don't miss "Last Post" at the Menin Gate, the daily tribute to WWI's fallen soldiers.
From classic pubs and beer bars to restaurants and cafes, use your PubCulture.Beer Ypres Digital Map to find great spots and other points of interest.
The Menin Gate is a solemn war memorial in Ieper, honoring the British and Commonwealth soldiers lost in World War I. Daily, it hosts the poignant Last Post ceremony at 8:00PM, featuring a bugle tribute, which has been carried out daily since 1928, with very few exceptions.
This iconic archway, built in 1927, displays the names of over 54,000 missing soldiers and serves as a central location for remembrance events.
Start your day with a hearty included breakfast at the hotel before stepping into the poignant history of World War I at the In Flanders Fields Museum in Ypres at 10am. This powerful visit brings the stories of Flanders Fields to life, honoring the sacrifices that shaped this region.
At 12:15pm, we depart for the iconic Brouwerij St. Bernardus for a self-guided brewery tour, generous beer tasting, and a relaxed, beer-paired late lunch featuring the abbey-style ales this historic brewery is famous for.
After returning to Ypres, the rest of the afternoon and evening are yours to explore. Grab your Pub.Culture.Beer digital Ypres Map to discover the town’s vibrant beer bars, make dinner reservations if you’re hungry, and soak in the local pub culture. And don’t miss the moving “Last Post” ceremony at the Menin Gate at 8pm if you didn’t catch it on our first night—a perfect, reflective way to cap off this meaningful day of history and hops.
The blend of solemn remembrance and world-class Belgian beer captures the heart of what makes a Pub Culture Beercation unforgettable.
Meet in the lobby and make the short walk to the Main Square (Grote Markt (Main Square) and the In Flanders Fields Museum.
Enjoy another relaxing free night in Ypres. If you happened to have missed "Last Post" at the Menin Gate yesterday at 8PM, don't miss it tonight. It's quite a remarkable experience, and highly recommended.
Use your PubCulture.Beer Ypres Digital Map once again to find great pubs, beer bars, cafes, and restaurants in Ypres.n
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel before our 9:30am departure from historic Ypres, heading south toward the charming city of Namur.
Along the scenic route, we'll make a memorable stop at the family-owned Omer Vander Ghinste Brewery for an engaging guided tour of their historic facilities and brand-new visitor center.
Dive into their brewing traditions dating back to 1892, followed by a delicious tasting of their iconic beers—including the renowned OMER—with the signature pouring ritual.
Afterward, join your fellow beercationers for a relaxed group lunch at the authentic Café De Sportwereld, a classic village pub right by the brewery, steeped in local history and perfect for savoring more of their fresh brews with hearty snacks.
We’ll then continue on to vibrant Namur, where your evening is delightfully free to soak up Friday night energy in this welcoming Walloon town. Grab your PubCulture.Beer Digital Namur Map and explore handpicked beer bars, lively cafés, excellent restaurants, and points of interest at your own pace—whether you're hunting rare Belgian gems or simply relaxing with locals over world-class pints.
Café De Sportwereld, next to the brewery, has a cozy atmosphere with a diverse menu that highlights local Belgian cuisine and a selection of craft beers. The friendly service and community events make each visit special.
Once we've checked into our hotel, the rest of your Friday night is free to explore Namur. Use your PubCulture.Beer Namur Digital Map to find points of interest, beer bars, cafes, and restaurants to make the most of your evening, enjoying the "Capital of Wallonia".
After a wonderfully relaxing Friday night in charming riverside Namur, rise refreshed with breakfast included at the hotel for an 8:30AM departure into a full day of Belgian beer bliss.
We’ll head to the legendary Chimay first for an immersive brewery tour, tasting, and delicious beer-pairing experience. Then it’s onward to iconic the picturesque Ardennes town of Houffalize.
After we check into our hotel, enjoy free time to wander this delightful little spot, soaking in the relaxed Saturday vibe
Later, we’ll visit the forest gnomes of La Chouffe brewery for a guided tour and tasting, capped off with a lively group dinner—perfect for toasting another epic day exploring the heart of Belgian beer culture.
Our slightly early departure is needed to take us south, near the French border, and our visit to the Abbaye Notre-Dame de Scourmont and Brasserie de Chimay.
Experience the charm of Hôtel du Commerce, situated in the heart of Houffalize, perfect for exploring local attractions and nature. Enjoy local cuisine at the cozy on-site restaurant and immerse yourself in outdoor activities like hiking and cycling. The hotel's traditional architecture and welcoming atmosphere make it a delightful retreat for nature lovers.
After checking into our rooms and quickly dropping off our luggage, we will make the short drive to the La Chouffe Brewery.
After a full day of Belgian adventures, unwind with a relaxed Saturday night in Houffalize. Stroll the picturesque streets and riverside paths, popping into welcoming local spots, it’s the perfect low-key way to toast the day surrounded by warm Ardennes hospitality and great company.
Use your PubCulture.Beer Houffalize Digital Map to visit 4-5 pubs open on a Saturday night. From the cozy Scotch Inn, lively Les 3 Passerelles, our own Hôotel du Commerce terrace bar, or others for fresh local brews.
After a relaxing evening in Houffalize, we’ll roll onward to Antwerp for our final two nights of Belgian bliss. Start the day with a hearty breakfast before departing for Bastogne and a moving morning Battle of the Bulge tour with local expert Henri Mignon—where the echoes of history come alive amid the beautiful Ardennes landscape.
From there, we head to Brasserie Fantôme for a special beer tasting of outstanding farmhouse ales to fuel the rest of our journey.
We’ll arrive in ntwerp, check into our hotel, and give you free time to relax, wander, or start easing into packing mode for our bittersweet departure in a couple of days.
Tonight, join your fellow beercationers for our final group dinner at De Koninck’s Black Smoke—raising glasses to the friendships, stories, and unforgettable beers we’ve shared along the way.
The rest of the evening is yours to savor. Use your PubCulture.Beer Antwerp Digital Map and embark on a DIY craft beer pub crawl through one of Belgium’s most dynamic beer cities—because even though our Ultimate Belgian Beercation is rapidly coming to a close, the adventure continues, one pint (or chalice) at a time.
Join Henri Mignon, one of the last living eyewitnesses to the Battle of the Bulge, for an unforgettable journey through the frozen forests and historic battlefields of Belgium’s Ardennes.
As a young boy living on a farm near Houffalize (just outside Bastogne) during the brutal winter of 1944–45, Henri brings vivid personal stories to life alongside expert military history.
Our tour starts in Bastogne’s McAuliffe Square and explores key sites, including foxholes, memorials like the Mardasson Monument, museums, and the dramatic landscapes where American forces, including the 101st Airborne, held the line against the German offensive.
Henri’s deep knowledge, warmth, and first-hand perspective make this far more than a standard battlefield tour—it’s a moving, immersive experience honoring the courage, sacrifice, and liberation of the region.
Brasserie Fantôme is a true hidden gem for craft beer enthusiasts. Tucked in the quiet village of Soy near Érezée in the Ardennes, this small brewery was founded in 1988 by Pub Culture Beercations' friend, Dany Prignon.
Known for its wildly creative saisons, Fantôme produces ever-changing farmhouse ales infused with seasonal fruits, spices, herbs, and quirky ingredients—think the flagship fruity Saison, chocolate notes, or one-off experiments like green tea and spinach brews.
You will have a little over an hour to relax before we depart for De Konick's Black Smoke for our final group dinner.
If you'd like to wander your way to dinner, you are welcome to meet us at Black Smoke.
6:50PM - Depart from hotel lobby. Walk to Antwerpen Plantin Metro Station (about 8 minutes)
7:02PM - Take the #2 Hoboken Zwaantjes tram to Antwerpen Harmonie. (5 minutes - 2 stops)
7:07PM - Get off at Antwerpen Harmonie tram stop.
7:15PM - Arrive at Black Smoke.
After dinner, we will make our way back towards our hotel, where you are free to use your PubCulture.Beer Antwerp Digital Map to find some of the best beer bars nearby with your fellow beercationers looking to enjoy one of our final nights of the tour.
Our final full day of the Ultimate Belgian Beercation arrives with that perfect mix of reflection and celebration. After a hearty hotel breakfast, we’ll meet our walking tour guide in the lobby at 10am for a memorable morning stroll through Antwerp’s historic streets— soaking in the architecture, stories, and vibrant energy that make this city such a fitting finale.
Your afternoon is delightfully free to pack those last souvenirs, wander Antwerp at your own pace, or simply relax with a Belgian beer in hand as you reminisce over the incredible 13 days we’ve shared— the legendary brews, the laughter, the friendships, and the history that brought it all together.
At 5pm we gather at Billie’s Craft Beer Kaffiteeria for our special Happy Hour Farewell Toast. Raise a couple of glasses (or chalices!) over shared appetizers and snacks as we toast to Belgium, the unforgettable memories we’ve made, and the new bonds forged along the way. It’s the perfect cap to an epic journey.
After our toast, the rest of your night is yours. Finish packing, call it an early one to rest up for travel, or keep those Belgian beers flowing just a little longer. Tomorrow we head back to “reality”— but only until the next Pub Culture Beercation, as we continue exploring the world one pint at a time!
After a leisurely breakfast, join your fellow beercationers for an Antwerp Walking Tour, the perfect way to dive into the heart of this vibrant Flemish city on your final full day in Belgium.
Starting at 10AM from our hotel lobby, our knowledgeable local guide will lead us on a relaxed 3-hour exploration through historic streets, stunning architecture, and lively squares. Discover the iconic Cathedral of Our Lady, the bustling Grote Markt with its guildhalls and fountain, medieval vibes along the Scheldt River, and hidden gems like cozy cobblestone alleys rich with maritime and artistic heritage—from Rubens to diamond lore.
We'll weave in tales of Antwerp's golden age as a trading powerhouse and its lively contemporary spirit—a wonderful, story-filled introduction that sets the stage for great beer and camaraderie later today at our Happy Hour Farewell Toast!!
After our walking tour, the rest of your afternoon is free until we meet up for our Happy Hour Farewell Toast. Work on packing for tomorrow's departure, find those last-minute souvenirs, or just relax and enjoy a few more delicious Belgian beers!
Finish packing, call it an early one to rest up for travel, or keep those Belgian beers flowing just a little longer. Tomorrow we head back to “reality”— but only until the next Pub Culture Beercation, as we continue exploring the world one pint at a time!
Sadly, our Ultimate Belgian Beercation has come to an end, and it's time to return to reality.
Grab a quick, relaxed breakfast at the hotel before we board our private bus for the relatively short drive from Antwerp to the Brussels International Airport (BRU).
To make sure your check-in at the airport and passage through passport control and security are as stress-free as possible, we strongly recommend booking return flights departing after 11:00 AM.
Flights scheduled earlier may require beercationers to arrange their own transportation to the airport.
Safe travels, and thank you for sharing this epic beer-filled adventure with us—until the next pour!
Rooms are available as the following:
Double Room - One Large Bed - for two people (booked together)
Double/Twin Room - Two Smaller Beds/Shared Room - for two people (booked separately)
Single Room - for one person (requires the single room supplement)
Beercations can be booked in several different ways and with varying levels of discount. While we do not offer a scheduled payment plan, you can log in to your WeTravel account created when you booked and make a partial payment anytime you choose.
Regular Price - This is the full price of the beercation if booked less than 6 months before departure, requires a $300 per person deposit at the time of booking, and final payment is due 3 months before departure.
Early Bird Discount - Save up to $450 per person, depending on the beercation, if your balance is booked to be paid in full 6 months before departure. A $300 per person deposit is required at the time of booking.
Paid-In-Full - Save an additional $150 per person if you pay for your beercation in full at the time of booking. If booked at least 6 1/2 months before departure, you can earn both the $450 and $150 discounts, for the lowest possible price!
• Pub Culture Beercations will provide ground transportation, lodging, tour guide(s), and organize all travel itineraries and tour site(s) arrangements as outlined in the “Ultimate Belgian Beercation” itinerary. If any changes are made to the itinerary, participants will be notified of said changes, and those changes will be of comparable or better quality.
• Where applicable, as outlined in the tour itinerary, meals listed as included will be provided in the tour cost. Meals not listed as included will be the participant's responsibility.
• To operate our tours, we require a minimum of 16 beercationers booked. Any tour that does not reach the required minimum number of participants risks being canceled.
• Pub Culture Beercations plans our tours for a maximum of 32 people. Requests for additional beercationers are subject to hotel availability and any tour/excursion caps during the beercation and are not guaranteed.
• Participants must be of legal drinking age in the country(s) your pub culture beercations trip visits. A parent or legal guardian must accompany participants who are aged 18 or under.
• The price for Pub Culture Beercations’ “Ultimate Belgian Beercation”, September 9-22, 2026, for a total of 13 nights across Belgiaum, is $5,149.00 ($396/day) per person based on double occupancy. Save $150.00 per person at $4,999.00 ($385/day) if paid in full at the time of booking through July 5, 2026. Save $450.00 with the Early Bird Discount for the per-person price of $4,699.00 ($361/day) if paid in full before May 30, 2026.
(Receive the Paid-In-Full and Early Bird Discounts, for the lowest per-person price of $4549.00 ($350/Day), until May 30, 2026.)
• For a Single Occupancy Supplement, an additional $950.00 will be applied to the per-person price for double occupancy, due exclusively to the higher cost of single rooms.
(Single rooms have limited availability.)
• Returning beercationers earn savings with our Frequent Beercationer Club discounts - $50.00 off each returning beercation, up to $350.00 off after eight or more tours!
• When committing to Pub Culture Beercation’s “Ultimate Belgian Beercation”, September 9-22, 2026, a $300.00 deposit per person is required to hold reservations for hotels, bus, and other group-scheduled events, unless you paid in full when booking.
• Your $300.00 will be applied towards the remaining trip balance.
(Deposit is refundable July 15, 2026. After July 15th, the deposit is only refundable if your reservation can be filled by another traveler, or Pub Culture Beercations cancels the tour.)
• To receive the Early Bird Discount, your remaining trip balance is due no later than May 30, 2026. Full price balances are due no later than July 15, 2026.
(After July 15, 2026, any payments made are non-refundable. Beercationers who cancel after June 12, 2026, will only receive a full refund if another participant fills your spot or Pub Culture Beercations cancels the tour. Partial refunds will only be granted in the amount Pub Culture Beercations can be refunded for tour expenses, deposits, and charges already made, plus the amount of included tour items that have not been paid in advance, excluding the cost of any credit card fees.)
• Payments can be made by ACH bank transfers or credit cards through our website. We accept Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express, Apple Pay, and Google Pay.
• Cancellation by participants after July 15, 2026, will result in forfeiture of tour fees paid. Consideration of a partial refund can be made in extraordinary circumstances that can be proven.
• If, for any reason, the beercation is canceled by Pub Culture Beercations, except in cases of “force majeure”, a full refund will be made to the contracting participant. Refunds will be issued to the original form of payment within 90 days of the date the cancellation letter and/or email are sent to all booked participants.
Force Majeure: Pub Culture Beercations will not be deemed in breach of this agreement or otherwise liable to you, by reason of delay in performance or nonperformance of any of its obligations under this agreement to the extent that any such delay or nonperformance is due to any force majeure. “Force Majeure” means any circumstances beyond our reasonable control, including without limitation acts of nature, terrorist activities, insurrection, explosion or accident, war or threat of war declared or undeclared, sabotage, civil disturbance, labor strikes, requisition, serious disease, quarantine or natural disasters such as floods, earthquakes or weather conditions, the act of any government or other national or local authority intervention, industrial dispute, natural or nuclear disaster, fire, chemical or biological disaster, and unforeseen circumstances which make it impossible to travel safely to the travel destination or remain at the travel destination or causes unavoidable technical problems with transport and all similar events outside our or the supplier(s) concerned’s control. If we and any of our suppliers are affected by force majeure, we and our suppliers shall be entitled to, and may in our sole discretion, vary or cancel any itinerary or arrangement in relation to the tour. Regarding civil unrest, once we have investigated the prevailing situation, as we deem fit, it shall remain in our sole and absolute discretion whether to proceed with the tour. Likewise, except where otherwise expressly stated in these beercation participant terms and agreements, we are not obliged to provide a full refund or pay you compensation if our contractual obligations to you are affected by “Force Majeure” (partial refunds maybe given after deducting unrecoverable costs such as deposits, coach costs, transportation tickets, city fees, permits, brewery tours, admission fees, group events and any other tour itinerary included items).
(If you have purchased travel insurance, check with your provider if your beercation has been canceled due to “Force Majeure” and inquire if you can file a claim for these costs.)
• Pub Culture Beercations’ “Ultimate Belgian Beercation”, September 9-22, 2026, has a moderate to active participation rating. Participants must be able to walk continuously for at least 30 minutes and keep up with the tour’s scheduled pace. This means you must be able to keep up with the group and our planned activities, for example, but not limited to, walking and/or biking city tours, brewery and distillery tours, and historical sites such as castles, museums, and more.
• We will have a private coach to take us between cities and planned events, but once in a town, you will be doing most of our exploration on foot and public transportation. Much of Europe is cobblestone, and many places may not have elevators. Participants who are unable to attend events on the tour due to personal limitations will not be refunded for any missed events. Likewise, the group cannot wait for people who are unable to participate in or keep up with the tour’s scheduled activities and events.
• Travel Insurance is available and recommended, but to receive full coverage and the lowest price, travel insurance should be purchased within 14 days of your booking. Pub Culture Beercations LLC recommends Travelex travel insurance. location number 27-0198
• Pub Culture Beercations is not responsible for any injury or illness a participant may encounter while on the “Ultimate Belgian Beercation”, September 9-22, 2026.
• Pub Culture Beercation participants are responsible for booking and purchasing their own flights.
• Pub Culture Beercations is not responsible for delays participants might encounter while traveling to the beercation meeting destination. Any delays encountered will be the trip participants’ responsibility and expense to catch up with the rest of the group. No refund will be issued for any portion of the missed trip due to participants' unplanned travel delays.
(Check with your travel insurance provider, if purchased, to see if any expenses and losses can be claimed.)
• Please note, the cost associated with any additional days before the scheduled “Day 1” or after the “Final Day” of Pub Culture Beercations’ “Ultimate Belgian Beercation”, September 9-22, 2026, is not included in the total trip cost. Participants are responsible for making any arrangements, including hotel reservations and payments, before or after the included itinerary, unless purchasing the Pub Culture Beercations Early Arrival Add-On.
NOT INCLUDED IN YOUR BEERCATION
• Round-Trip Airfare
• Cost for any meals (including beverages and beers) outside of those listed on the “Ultimate Belgian Beercation”, September 9-22, 2026, itinerary.
• Costs for excursions or activities listed as “optional” in the “Ultimate Belgian Beercation”, September 9-22, 2026, itinerary.
• Costs for excursions or activities you choose during scheduled “free time” on the tour that are not listed in the “Ultimate Belgian Beercation”, September 9-22, 2026, itinerary.
• Travel Insurance (recommended).
• Souvenirs or other optional purchases.
