Stella Artois Brewery, Leuven

The Stella Artois Brewery in Leuven is not just a brewing facility—it’s a journey through centuries of beer-making tradition. As part of the global giant AB InBev, Stella Artois remains deeply connected to its roots in the historic university city of Leuven. Open for visits on weekends, the brewery offers an interactive guided tour where you can witness the brewing process up close, learn about the rich heritage of Stella Artois, and cap it all off with a crisp pint of this world-renowned beer.

The brewery traces its origins to 1366 with the establishment of the Den Hoorn brewery, originally a tavern brewing its beer. Sébastien Artois took over in 1708, later renaming the establishment Brouwerij Artois in 1717. Stella Artois, the flagship beer, was introduced in 1926 as a Christmas brew, its name inspired by the holiday star. Over time, this pilsner evolved into a year-round favorite, celebrated for its quality and flavor.

Known for its 5.2% ABV in Belgium, Stella Artois is a classic pilsner that has won medals for excellence and undergone several transformations over the years. Today, it’s brewed in facilities across the globe, including in the United Kingdom, Australia, and North America, maintaining its reputation for consistency and quality.

The brewery tour is a blend of tradition and modernity, showcasing the historical significance of Stella Artois alongside the latest brewing technologies. Visitors can explore the mysteries of beer-making, from selecting ingredients to the final pour. After the tour, the brewery shop offers an opportunity to dive deeper into the Stella Artois product line.

Stella Artois has grown from its humble beginnings to become a global icon, with production exceeding one billion liters annually by 2006. Its label design, inspired by the architecture and history of Leuven, features the hunting horn of the Den Hoorn brewery and medals from 19th and 20th-century Belgian trade exhibitions.