Heineken is one of the largest breweries in the world, with production taking place in more than 140 breweries across 71 countries. The brand was founded in 1863 by Gerard Adriaan Heineken. In 1864 he purchased his first brewery, and four years later moved operations to the new building at the corner of Stadhouderskade and Ferdinand Bolstraat.
The brewery in this historic building is no longer in use for production. Today it houses the Heineken Experience. Visitors enjoy an interactive self-guided tour that dives into the brand’s history, brewing process, and global success.
The Historic Brewery Building
Heineken’s original brewery is located right in the heart of Amsterdam’s city center. It served as an active brewery until 1988. Due to the company’s growth, the building became too small and less accessible for large-scale production. After 120 years, brewing moved to a modern facility in Zoeterwoude. Today, the iconic building is home to the Heineken Experience – a must-visit for beer lovers.
Heineken Experience: Discover the dynamic world of Heineken – right where the beer was first brewed!
The Heineken Experience includes:
- Interactive tour through historic brewing areas
- Audio guide available in English and 8 other languages
- Entry to the Heineken® Experience
- Two beers or soft drinks
The self-guided tour takes about 1.5–2 hours (you set your own pace). Reserve online in advance to skip the lines, especially during peak season.
Important: The Heineken Experience is strictly 18+ due to alcohol tastings. Valid ID (passport or driver’s license) is required at entry.
🍺 Fun Fact: Heineken as an Abbreviation?
Want to learn some quirky Dutch trivia? While Heineken is obviously the founder’s surname, some locals jokingly claim it stands for:
Hij En Ik Nemen Elke Keer Een Nieuwe
(He and I take a new one every time.)
Pronounce it out loud and you might get the reply:
Na Elke Keer Een Nieuwe Is Er Heineken
(After every time a new one, there’s Heineken.)
Prices
Prices are subject to change.
Opening Hours
The Heineken Experience is open 365 days a year.
| Monday | 10:30 – 19:30 | Last entry 17:15 |
| Tuesday | 10:30 – 19:30 | Last entry 17:15 |
| Wednesday | 10:30 – 19:30 | Last entry 17:15 |
| Thursday | 10:30 – 19:30 | Last entry 17:15 |
| Friday | 10:30 – 21:00 | Last entry 18:45 |
| Saturday | 10:30 – 21:00 | Last entry 18:45 |
| Sunday | 10:30 – 19:30 | Last entry 17:15 |
Opening hours may vary slightly during peak season or holidays – always check the official website before your visit.
Heineken Experience
Stadhouderskade 781072 AE Amsterdam
- +31 (0)20 205 0593
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. - Heineken Experience
How to get there:
- Walking: Located in De Pijp, walking distance from Museumplein and Leidseplein.
- Tram: 1, 7, 19 to Vijzelgracht
- Metro: 52 to Vijzelgracht
Accessibility: Due to the historic nature of the building, the Heineken Experience is not fully wheelchair accessible in all areas. They advise coming on weekdays before 13:00 CET, when it is less busy and easier to move around. For more details or help with accessibility, please contact the Heineken Experience directly via their website or by phone.
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Last updated: April 2026