--- title: "Discover the Best Craft Breweries to Visit Around the World" url: https://utopianhiker.com/discover-the-best-craft-breweries-to-visit-around-the-world/ date: 2026-05-12 modified: 2026-05-12 author: "Herb Vore" description: "Discover the Best Craft Breweries to Visit Around the World 1. United States a. Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. - California Founded in 1980, Sierra Nevada is a pioneer of the..." categories: - "Travel" - "Travel Culinary" tags: - "craft beer travel bucket list" image: https://utopianhiker.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Discover-the-Best-Craft-Breweries-to-Visit-Around-the-World.webp word_count: 1703 --- # Discover the Best Craft Breweries to Visit Around the World ## Discover the Best Craft Breweries to Visit Around the World ### 1. United States #### a. Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. - California Founded in 1980, Sierra Nevada is a pioneer of the craft beer movement in the United States. Located in Chico, this brewery is renowned for its Pale Ale and its commitment to sustainability. Visitors can take a guided brewery tour that includes tastings of their flagship beers and seasonal releases. The patio offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, perfect for sipping on a refreshing brew. #### b. Dogfish Head Brewery - Delaware Dogfish Head is known for pushing the boundaries of beer styles with creative ingredients and experimental brewing techniques. The brewery’s Milton location features a full-service restaurant along with a brewery tour and tastings. Their famous 90 Minute IPA is a must-try, and the brewery regularly hosts events and festivals, ensuring there's always something happening. #### c. New Belgium Brewing - Colorado Home to the beloved Fat Tire Amber Ale, New Belgium in Fort Collins prioritizes sustainability and community engagement. Visitors can enjoy tours that end with sampling an array of their beers in their charming tasting room. The brewery's large outdoor space is great for enjoying summer evenings, and they often host events and food trucks. ### 2. Canada #### a. Steam Whistle Brewery - Ontario Located in the historic Roundhouse near the CN Tower, Steam Whistle is known for its premium pilsner. The brewery offers a unique tour experience that includes a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process and tastings. The location is also close to several attractions, making it an ideal stop for visitors exploring Toronto. #### b. Tofino Brewing Co. - British Columbia Nestled in the beautiful town of Tofino, this brewery is famous for its craft beers that showcase local flavors. The Tofino Brewing Co. provides tours that highlight their use of local ingredients, and visitors can sample beers like the Tofino Pale Ale on their outdoor patio overlooking the ocean. ### 3. Europe #### a. Trappistes Rochefort - Belgium One of the most renowned Trappist breweries, Rochefort produces some of the world's most coveted beers. Located near the Abbey of Notre-Dame de Saint-Rémy, the brewery is famous for its Rochefort 6, 8, and 10. Visitors can sample these exceptional beers directly from the source, and the scenic countryside offers a charming backdrop. #### b. BrewDog - Scotland With its headquarters in Ellon, Scotland, BrewDog is known for its bold flavors and innovative brewing practices. The brewery offers tours that include tastings of unique beers such as the Punk IPA. BrewDog has expanded globally, with bars and breweries in various cities, making it easily accessible for beer lovers around the world. #### c. Weihenstephan Brewery - Germany Established in 1040, Weihenstephan is often regarded as the oldest brewery in the world. Located in Freising, Bavaria, the brewery is celebrated for its traditional German beers. Visitors can take guided tours and enjoy tastings in the brewery’s beer garden surrounded by beautiful views of the Bavarian countryside. ### 4. Asia #### a. Hitachino Nest Beer - Japan Nestled in the Ibaraki Prefecture, Hitachino Nest Brewery is famous for its unique and flavorful brews that often incorporate traditional Japanese ingredients. Visitors can take tours that cover the brewing process and enjoy tastings of their signature beers like the White Ale and Red Rice Ale. The brewery also features an on-site bar and restaurant. #### b. Baird Beer - Japan Based in Shizuoka, Baird Beer emphasizes quality and tradition in its craft brewing. Known for its variety of ales and stouts, Baird Beer offers brewery tours and tastings in its Taproom, which features a wide selection of beers available on draft. The brewery also produces seasonal and limited releases, making each visit unique. ### 5. Australia #### a. Stone & Wood Brewing Co. - New South Wales Located in Byron Bay, Stone & Wood is celebrated for its focus on environmental sustainability and community involvement. Visitors can enjoy the brewery’s relaxed atmosphere while sampling their famous Pacific Ale and other craft offerings. The brewery offers guided tastings and has a large outdoor area for patrons to unwind. #### b. Little Creatures Brewery - Tasmania Little Creatures began in Fremantle but has expanded to Geelong. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and exceptional beers like the Pale Ale, the brewery offers tours and tastings that highlight its brewing process. The expansive beer garden is a great spot to enjoy a pint in a lively social setting. ### 6. South America #### a. Colorado Brewery - Brazil Colorado Brewery, located in the state of São Paulo, is famous for its craft beers that highlight Brazilian ingredients. The brewery offers tours that showcase the uniqueness of its brewing techniques and the distinct flavors of its beers like the Indica IPA. Visitors can enjoy tastings and purchase exclusive merchandise. #### b. Cervejaria Wäls - Brazil In Belo Horizonte, Cervejaria Wäls focuses on quality craft beers that mix traditional techniques with Brazilian flavors. The brewery offers insightful tours and tastings of its popular beers, including the Wäls Dubbel and Wäls Pilsen, set in a lively tasting room atmosphere. ### 7. Africa #### a. Devil’s Peak Brewing Company - South Africa Situated in Cape Town, Devil’s Peak Brewing is known for its craft beers that represent the essence of South African brewing. Visitors can partake in brewery tours, sample various beers, and enjoy the scenic views of Table Mountain. Their flagship beers, such as the Devil’s Peak Lager, are widely celebrated. #### b. Windhoek Lager Brewery - Namibia Known for its meticulously brewed lager, the Windhoek Brewery in Namibia is a cultural icon. Visitors can explore the brewing process through guided tours, and the definitive Windhoek Lager can be tasted fresh from the source. The brewery has a storied history, making it a significant stop for craft beer enthusiasts. ### 8. Middle East #### a. 961 Beer - Lebanon 961 Beer is one of the first craft breweries in Lebanon, focusing on traditional and modern brewing techniques. Located in Beirut, the brewery offers tours that highlight its brewing philosophy and commitment to quality. Tastings of their signature beers, including the 961 Pale Ale, can be enjoyed in a vibrant atmosphere. #### b. The Lebanese Brewery - Lebanon Also located in Beirut, The Lebanese Brewery produces a variety of craft beers that are deeply rooted in local culture. Visitors can engage in tastings and enjoy the vibrant culture of Beirut while sampling their refreshing beers in a lively setting. ### 9. Caribbean #### a. Red Stripe Brewery - Jamaica Famous for its iconic lager, Red Stripe Brewery in Kingston is a must-visit for anyone exploring Jamaica. Visitors can enjoy informative brewery tours and learn about the brewing process that has made Red Stripe a household name. Tastings are available, allowing visitors to experience the refreshing taste that the brand is known for. #### b. St. John Brewers - U.S. Virgin Islands Located in St. John, this brewery is known for its craft beers that utilize local flavors and ingredients. The brewery offers relaxed tours that include tastings of its beers, such as the Island Hoppin' IPA, and provides insights into the brewing process in a picturesque Caribbean setting. ### 10. Pacific Islands #### a. Fiji Beer Company - Fiji Known for its refreshing premium lager, Fiji Beer Company is a popular stop for beer lovers visiting Fiji. The brewery offers tours that provide insights into the brewing process, with tastings of their flagship beer. Surrounded by stunning tropical beach landscapes, it’s a true oasis for visitors. #### b. Mac's Brewery - New Zealand Located in Nelson, Mac's Brewery offers a range of unique craft beers inspired by local ingredients. The brewery is known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere, where visitors can enjoy tastings and tours that offer a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process. The region's landscape adds to the charm of this brewery experience. ### 11. Special Mentions #### a. Augustiner Bräu - Germany In Munich, Augustiner Bräu is the oldest independent brewery in the city, offering traditional Bavarian beers. Visitors can explore its brewery and taste authentic German brews in its historic beer hall that has been around since 1885. #### b. Cervecería de Colima - Mexico In the heart of Colima, Mexico, this brewery is known for its artisan beers that reflect local flavors and traditions. Visitors can embark on a brewery tour and enjoy tastings of unique brews, showcasing the craft beer revolution in Mexico. #### c. Asahi Beer - Japan Asahi's brewery in Tokyo invites beer enthusiasts to explore the brewing process of their popular lagers. The brewery offers tours and tastings, giving insight into the art of brewing in one of the largest brewery chains in Japan. ### 12. Craft Beer Events and Festivals - **Great American Beer Festival - USA**: Held annually in Denver, Colorado, this festival showcases thousands of craft beers from breweries across the country, providing a tasting experience like no other. - **London Craft Beer Festival - UK**: Celebrating the best of craft beer from around the globe, this festival features barbecued food, live music, and seminars by leading brewers. - **Oktoberfest - Germany**: A world-famous festival celebrating Bavarian culture, it features a massive selection of local beers and an excellent opportunity to experience traditional German cuisine. ### Visiting Tips for Craft Breweries - **Plan Ahead**: Research the breweries you want to visit and check if reservations are required, especially for tours. - **Transportation**: Use public transportation or designated drivers to ensure a safe visit, especially when sampling beers. - **Tasting Rooms**: Take advantage of tasting rooms at breweries to experience a variety of beer styles without committing to full pints. - **Local Pairings**: Seek out food pairings offered by the breweries to enhance your tasting experience. Many breweries have their restaurants or food trucks featuring local cuisine. - **Ask Questions**: Don’t hesitate to engage with staff; they frequently enjoy sharing their knowledge about brewing processes and recommendations on favorite beers. - **Collect Souvenirs**: Many breweries offer branded merchandise like glasses, shirts, and unique releases that can make for great souvenirs. - **Respect Local Customs**: Understand and respect local drinking laws and customs, particularly when traveling internationally. By exploring craft breweries around the globe and sampling their unique offerings, you not only enjoy exceptional beers but also engage with diverse cultures and local traditions. Each brewery has its story to tell, making every visit a unique experience in the world of craft brewing.