Brewery De Halve Maan

Brewery De Halve Maan: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Your Guide to Bruges’ Historic Brewery

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Brewery De Halve Maan is a living testament to Bruges’ brewing tradition, combining centuries-old heritage with modern innovation in the heart of Belgium’s most picturesque city. As the last remaining family-run brewery in Bruges’ UNESCO-listed medieval center, De Halve Maan offers visitors a unique experience: guided tours through historic brewing halls and cellars, panoramic rooftop views, insight into one of the world’s only underground beer pipelines, and exclusive tastings of unfiltered beers. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast, a history buff, or a traveler eager to discover the city’s cultural gems, this comprehensive guide provides everything you need to plan your visit, including practical information on hours, tickets, accessibility, and nearby attractions (De Halve Maan – Brewery, Brewery Visits EU, Atlas Obscura).

1. The Historical Roots and Legacy of De Halve Maan

Founded in 1856 by Henri Maes, Brewery De Halve Maan is the last authentic brewery still operating within Bruges’ historical center. The Maes-Vanneste family has preserved traditional brewing methods through six generations, making the brewery a symbol of resilience and continuity. Brewing at the Walplein Square site dates back almost 500 years, with De Halve Maan maintaining its commitment to quality and authenticity throughout wars, industrialization, and changing tastes (De Halve Maan – Brewery, Brewery Visits EU).

De Halve Maan’s flagship beers, Brugse Zot and Straffe Hendrik, are deeply intertwined with Bruges’ identity, and the brewery serves as a vibrant community hub, hosting events and celebrations. The brewery’s architecture reflects a blend of 19th-century industrial brickwork and Art Nouveau details, harmoniously integrated into Bruges’ medieval core (ArrivalGuides).

2. Innovation: The Underground Beer Pipeline

In 2016, De Halve Maan pioneered a groundbreaking 3.2 km underground beer pipeline—the first of its kind in the world—which transports beer from the historic brewery to the bottling plant outside the city. This solution alleviates congestion on Bruges’ narrow, cobbled streets, removes about 500 truck trips annually, and significantly reduces the brewery’s carbon footprint (Atlas Obscura, Trafalgar, Pipe Repair UK). The pipeline, made of food-grade stainless steel, can move up to 1,000 gallons (6,000 liters) of beer per hour. The innovative project was partially funded by a crowdfunding campaign, with top donors receiving a lifetime supply of beer (Atlas Obscura).

3. Visiting De Halve Maan: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Visiting Hours:

Open daily: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Last tour starts at 5:00 PM
(Hours may vary seasonally—always check the official website for updates.)

Ticket Prices and Booking:

Standard guided tour: €14–€16 per adult
XL tour (extended tasting): €26 per person
Reduced rates for children, seniors, and groups
Children under 6 are generally not permitted for safety reasons
Advance booking is highly recommended, especially during weekends and holidays (Halve Maan FAQ)

Accessibility:

The brasserie and shop are wheelchair accessible
The main tours involve stairs (approx. 220 steps); thus, they are not suitable for visitors with mobility challenges
For special assistance, contact the brewery in advance

Languages:
Tours are offered in Dutch, English, French, and occasionally German.

Location & Directions:
Brewery De Halve Maan, Walplein 26, 8000 Brugge, Belgium. Easily reachable on foot from Bruges’ train station or by local public transport. Parking is available nearby (visitbrugesconventionbureau.be).

4. Tour Types and Experiences

Classic Brewery Tour:
45-minute guided tour through historic brewing halls, museum, and rooftop, ending with a tasting of unfiltered beer only available on-site.
XL Tour:
90-minute extended tour with a tasting of three specialty beers in the authentic cellar, ideal for beer connoisseurs.
Private and Group Tours:
Available by reservation, including German-language options on request.
Family and Accessibility:
Children are welcome on tours (with reduced ticket prices); however, the stairs may be challenging. Service dogs are welcome in the brasserie.

On-site Amenities:

Free Wi-Fi
Gift shop with exclusive beers and souvenirs
Brasserie and terrace serving Belgian dishes and freshly brewed beers
Restrooms and accessible facilities at street level

5. Nearby Historical Attractions

De Halve Maan’s central location allows you to combine your brewery visit with top Bruges sites:

Belfry of Bruges: Iconic medieval tower with panoramic views
Market Square (Grote Markt): Historical heart of the city
Groeningemuseum: Celebrated Flemish art collection
Basilica of the Holy Blood: Revered religious relic
Canal tours: Discover Bruges from the water

6. Sustainability and Community Commitment

De Halve Maan is a leader in sustainable brewing. Alongside the beer pipeline, the brewery utilizes solar panels and advanced water filtration, and actively supports local charities and cultural events. Guided tours highlight these efforts, showcasing the brewery’s balance of tradition, innovation, and community engagement (Learning to Homebrew).

7. Tips for a Memorable Visit

Book in advance—especially during busy periods
Wear comfortable shoes—tours involve stairs and walking
Check accessibility if visiting with limited mobility
Combine your visit with other Bruges historical sites for a full cultural experience
Try the exclusive unfiltered beers—only available at the brewery

8. Essential Facts and Figures

Founded: 1856
Family generations: 6
Pipeline length: 3.2 km
Annual visitors: Over 100,000
Countries exported to: 40+
Beers brewed: Brugse Zot, Straffe Hendrik, Blanche de Bruges, and seasonal brews
Beer trucks removed annually: ~500

9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are the Brewery De Halve Maan visiting hours?
A: Open daily 10:00 AM–6:00 PM; last tour at 5:00 PM.

Q: How can I buy tickets?
A: Online via the official website, by phone, or at the entrance. Book in advance for peak times.

Q: Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
A: Tours are not wheelchair accessible due to stairs, but the brasserie and shop are accessible.

Q: Are children allowed?
A: Yes, with reduced pricing, but tours are not suitable for children under 6.

Q: Can I book a private or group tour?
A: Yes, by email at [email protected].

Q: Are pets permitted?
A: Pets are not allowed on tours, except service animals in the brasserie.

10. Visuals and Interactive Media

Explore high-quality images, virtual tours, and panoramic views of the brewery and Bruges skyline on the brewery’s website. Visuals include alt text such as “De Halve Maan brewery rooftop view of Bruges” and “Historic brewing hall at De Halve Maan” for accessibility and SEO.

11. Contact Information

Address: Walplein 26, 8000 Brugge, Belgium
Phone: +32 (0) 50 44 42 22
Email (private tours): [email protected]
Website: halvemaan.be

12. Conclusion: Raise a Glass to Tradition and Innovation

Brewery De Halve Maan is more than just a brewery—it’s a living chapter of Bruges’ story. From its historic brewing halls and the ingenuity of its beer pipeline to its central role in the community, a visit here offers insight into the city’s spirit of resilience, creativity, and tradition. Plan your visit, book your tickets ahead, and discover why De Halve Maan is an essential stop among Bruges’ historical sites. Enhance your experience by exploring nearby attractions and staying updated via the Audiala app for personalized travel guidance.