Czech Breweries & Beer Trails

Czech Breweries & Beer Trails

The Czech Republic is a true beer lover’s paradise, home to the world’s first golden lager and a proud brewing tradition that spans centuries. From the legendary Pilsner Urquell in Plzeň to the state-owned Budvar in České Budějovice, iconic breweries sit alongside a vibrant craft scene and centuries-old monastic brewhouses. Travelers can explore Prague’s lively brewpubs, relax in South Bohemia’s beer spas, or taste unpasteurized “tank beer” in authentic pubs. With detailed itineraries, cultural tips, and insider advice, this guide shows you how to sip your way through Czechia’s castles, towns, and hop fields – all while raising a hearty “Na zdraví!”

Stepping into the Czech Republic is to enter a land where beer is woven into the very fabric of history and daily life. Often hailed as the birthplace of golden lager, this corner of Europe has been brewing beer for centuries. The first Pilsner – the world’s original pale lager – was brewed in Plzeň (Pilsen) in 1842, and today Czechs still drink more beer per capita than anyone else (about 126 liters each in 2024). From medieval monastic brewhouses to cutting-edge craft pubs, the country’s breweries range from historic giants to tiny revolutionaries. This guide will help you taste them all – Prague’s iconic brewery tours and cozy brewpubs, Pilsen’s pilgrim’s route at Pilsner Urquell, South Bohemia’s castle-and-beer trail (České Budějovice to Krumlov), and offbeat experiences like beer spas and tankovna pubs – with maps, itineraries and insider tips for getting around.

For a quick jumpstart, here’s a snapshot: One-day travelers can pair an afternoon Pilsner Urquell brewery tour in Plzeň (with its vast old cellars and historic brew house) with a castle visit or Czech spa town nearby. In a 3–5 day trip, loop from Prague to Pilsen and then to České Budějovice (Budvar brewery) or Český Krumlov (charming old town, beer spa at Svachovka). And for a week-long beer odyssey, add South Bohemia’s cycling beer trails (through villages like Třeboň and castles like Orlík) and time at a traditional beer spa (e.g. Svachovka, where you soak in a warm malt bath while sipping fresh lager).

Along the way, we’ll point out practical matters (“Can my kids join a tour?” “Should I book tours ahead?” “How to read Czech beer labels?”) as well as cultural tips (toasting “Na zdraví!”, ordering beer, typical pub fare). Download the brewery tour map and itinerary charts here to plan your trip. No matter your pace, Czech beer country offers something for everyone. As you sip that first clean draft from the tap, you’ll be tapping into a tradition dating back to 10th-century monasteries and beyond. Prost – Na zdraví!

Why the Czech Republic Is a Global Beer Destination

At its heart, Czech beer culture is a story of exceptional ingredients and time-honored craftsmanship. The region’s soft, iron-poor water, Moravian barley and world-famous hop varieties gave birth to Pilsner Urquell, the very first golden lager, in Plzeň in 1842. This laid the template for pilsner lagers worldwide. That quality hop – Saaz hops – is named after the town of Žatec (German: Saaz) and is one of only four “noble” hop varieties in the world. These delicate, spicy Saaz hops (cultivated for over 700 years in northwest Bohemia) still give Czech beers their signature aroma and bitterness. In fact, Žatec’s hop gardens are now a UNESCO-recognized cultural landscape.

Today Czechia is dotted with roughly 550 breweries, from massive legacy breweries to tiny brewpubs. For centuries brewing was done at monasteries and municipal breweries; now a craft boom has added hundreds of microbreweries to the mix. Visitors will find legendary national brewers – Pilsner Urquell (Plzeň), Budějovický Budvar (Budějovice), Staropramen (Prague) – alongside a thriving modern scene of small-batch breweries and brewpubs. The result is a staggering variety of Czech beer: from the light světlý ležák (pale lager, often 11–12° Plato, about 4.8–5% ABV) to rich tmavé ležák (dark lager) and amber polotmavé. Typical Czech “beer-strength” labels use the Plato scale: e.g. 10° ≈ 4% ABV, 12° ≈ 5% ABV, 15–16° ≈ 6–6.5%. (Between 8° and 10°, beers are legally called výčepní or “draught” beers.)

Beer has always been central to Czech life – during one recent year, consumption averaged 126 liters per person – and locals pride themselves on serving it at peak freshness. Look out for tankovna pubs: these draw beer straight from stainless steel tanks on site, serving completely unpasteurized beer. In about 180 authorized Prague pubs, you can order a glass directly from a tap connected to a storage tank – a tankovna – where the beer is kept cold and undisturbed. The result is beer that is often smoother, more effervescent and aromatically vivid than its bottled or kegged counterpart. (Czech breweries require all tank beer to be consumed within 14 days to retain quality.) For connoisseurs, tasting a truly fresh Pilsner na tanku – in a well-trained pub like U Rudolfina or U Pinkasu – is a revelation that highlights why old Pražská piva won’t do at peak freshness.

Top Must-Visit Historic Breweries (National Icons)

Pilsner Urquell, Plzeň (Pilsen)

The granddaddy of lagers, Pilsner Urquell is a pilgrimage site. The brewery in Plzeň invites visitors on The Original Tour, a 110-minute journey through the modern brew house, bottling plant and 9 kilometers of subterranean oak lager cellars. You’ll see the old stock houses and even learn to draw the beer from an oak barrel in the Lagertankovna cellar. The tour includes two glasses of unfiltered Pilsner and runs in multiple languages (Czech, English, German, etc.). It costs around 380 CZK (~€15) per person. (There’s also a separate Prague branch called the Pilsner Urquell Experience, which we cover in “Beer tours” below; but to taste the beer at its source, the Plzeň tour is unbeatable.)

  • Booking & tips: Tours depart frequently (often every 30–60 minutes) from 9am–5pm; the brewery’s site recommends booking online, though walk-in spots are sometimes available. Check the Pilsner Experience site or phone in advance. Bring warm clothes – the underground cellar stays around 4°C. On the return visit to street level, try the Tapster Academy add-on, a private 1-hour lesson (990 Kč) on how to pour a perfect foamy Pilsner.
  • What to expect: Every tour has an audio-visual beginning (covering 19th-century Plzeň brewing history) followed by a tram to the brewery. You’ll watch brewing steps and ride elevators up to mash tuns. But the highlight is the labyrinth of deep cellars where beer was stored for months; here you taste na tanku (straight from lager tanks) in dim candlelight. Staff encourage the Czech tradition of cheers – “Na zdraví!” while making eye contact. Children (under 18) may join for the educational parts, though no alcohol is served to minors (they’ll get soft drinks instead).
  • Nearby: Plzeň town center (15 min walk) has good pub food and hotel options. If time allows, visit Plzeň’s historic Old Town Square or Pilsen Brewery Museum (Stará sladovna) for context.

Budějovický Budvar (Budvar), České Budějovice

Often called “Czech Budweiser,” Budvar is the state-owned brewery in the city known as Budweis. It brews a classic Czech lager with Saaz hops. Budvar offers hour-long tours (with tastings) priced from about 180–250 CZK for an 11° lager sample, plus a larger 12° tasting glass. Tours run in Czech, English, German and several other languages. Budvar’s Visitor Center is open daily, and during the high season they even run tours without prior booking at set times (e.g. at 2pm daily).

  • Budvar vs. “Budweiser”: A common question is whether this is the same as the American Budweiser. The answer is: No, they’re distinct beers by different companies. The Budvar brewery in Budějovice is the original “Budweiser” from Budweis, with a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) in Europe. Due to trademark wars, the Czech Budvar is sold as “Czechvar” in North America. It has a rich malty body with spicy Saaz hops, while the U.S. Budweiser is a separate brand altogether.
  • What to expect: The Budvar tour goes through fermenting tanks and into the cold stone cellars (at about 2°C), so warm jackets are provided. A staff guide explains the brewing process, then pours two fresh samples on tap. Note: Budvar’s route has stairs and is not wheelchair-friendly (though the Visitor Center can arrange special tours for wheelchairs). Outside tour hours, you can buy a Budvar souvenir (glassware, growlers or snacks) from the shop.

Staropramen, Prague

Prague’s best-known brewery (though nowadays mostly an industrial plant) offers tours in its near-Smíchov brewery. The tour covers the bottling line and fermentation tanks, usually concluding with a tasting in the taproom. It’s not as historically immersive as Budvar or Urquell, but it’s convenient to visit from Prague.

Strahov Monastery Brewery (Břevnov), Prague

Tucked into the Strahov Abbey grounds (MALÝ Strahovský klošter), this old Benedictine brewery dates to AD 993 – the first recorded beer brewing in Czech history. Today the monks (and lay brewers) make a classic “Benedict” golden lager, plus seasonal specialties. You can tour the grounds and cellars by appointment. Be sure to try the monastery’s Světlý and Černý (light and dark) beers in the adjoining café or at the Abbey brewery pub in Dejvice.

Břevnov, Strahov & Other Prague Brewpubs:

Beyond Staropramen, Prague’s craft scene has grown explosively. Brewery-restaurants are sprinkled in trendy areas: Vinohradský Pivovar (St. Wenceslas brewery) in Vinohrady, Pivovarský Dům near the castle, Lokal U Bílé Kuželky (brewpubs in the Lokal chain), Broumovice / CraftHouse pubs, Malmö breweries in Žižkov, and microbreweries like Bad Flash or BeerGeek Bar. Each offers its own brews on tap, often with seasonal ales or IPAs. The newly opened Strahov Monastery microbrewery produces abbey-style ales.

Pilsen (Plzeň) – The Home of Pilsner

Just 90 minutes west of Prague by fast train, the city of Plzeň (Pilsen) is a beer pilgrim’s essential. Beyond Pilsner Urquell itself, the town has a Beer Trail linking Pilsner’s attractions with local brewpubs:

  • Pilsner Urquell Experience: If you can’t make it to the brewery, the Pilsner Urquell Experience in Prague (28. října 377/13) is a modern museum-tasting hall. Here you can walk through a multimedia history of pilsner beer and taste two flagship lagers in a historic beer hall. The Original Tour here lasts 60–90 minutes, includes 2 beers, and costs about 549 Kč. (This is ideal for a daytrip if you’re not heading to Plzeň itself.)
  • In Plzeň: Once in the city center (near the Pumpa pivovar and Great Synagogue), grab a table at the historic restaurant-brewpub Na Spilce, which draws its beer from the Urquell cellars next door. The Spilka is the fresh lager house attached to the brewery – don’t miss that experience. You can also take a short walk to craft brewpubs like Purkmistr, which has a brew-bath spa (beer saunas/baths, see below).
  • Getting there: Regular trains (Czech Railways or RegioJet) connect Prague to Plzeň’s main station. It takes about 1h31 on average, with the fastest in ~1h17. Buses (FlixBus) are slightly cheaper but similar time. From Plzeň station, city trams or taxis can get you downtown in 10 minutes.

South Bohemia Beer Trail & Castle-Brewery Itineraries

South Bohemia (Jihočeský kraj) offers one of Czechia’s richest beer circuits – a castle-and-brewery road trip through winding roads, medieval towns and family-run breweries.

  • České Budějovice (Budvar): Begin in Budějovice to tour Budvar (see above) and wander the UNESCO-listed old town. The brewery lies just outside the medieval walls (take a 20 min walk or short tram ride).
  • Český Krumlov: From Budějovice, drive or take a bus (~40 min) south to Český Krumlov, a fairy-tale castle town. Here you can tour the Schwarzenberg Brewery at Svachovka (just 5 km outside town in the forests) which doubles as a spa. Svachovka’s beer spa (beer baths in wooden tubs) lets you soak in hot malt and hops while sipping their Glok lager. If time permits, cruise the Vltava River or climb the castle tower for views.
  • Třeboň and Třeboňský Budvar: Head east from Č. Krumlov through pine forests to Třeboň (about 1.5 hr by car). This spa town has its own Budvar brewery (Třeboňský Budvar), plus a famous fish pond culture (lye fish soup pairs beautifully with a Třeboň Budvar 12° lager).
  • Orlík & Rožmberk Castles: On the return towards Prague, dip north to see Orlík Castle on the reservoir (with its castle brewery taproom). Nearby is Rožmberk Castle, where you can taste beer at the cozy Kocanda pub at the base of the hill. Then follow the river back north through woodland to Český Krumlov (or head east to Prague).
  • Day-by-day: Several guides (e.g. Bobo & ChiChi’s “South Bohemian Beer Trail”) suggest a 3–4 day loop. Camping or guesthouses in Budějovice, Krumlov and Třeboň break up the trip. Note many breweries (and castle sites) close or cut hours in winter (Nov–Feb), and some require booking tours ahead in summer.
  • Mapping: VisitCzechia has detailed maps of the six South Bohemian beer trails, which include not only Budvar but also smaller breweries like Samson (Strakonice) and Dudák (Strakonice). The trails often combine beer stops with natural sights (Orlík Lake) and cultural monuments (Vyšší Brod Monastery). Cycling is popular here too – special beer-bike tours even exist.

Niche Experiences: Beer Spas, Tankovny, Hop Farms & Festivals

Beyond brewery tours, Czech beer culture has some unique offbeat attractions:

  • Beer spas: The Czech beer spa is legendary. At breweries like Purkmistr (Plzeň region) and Svachovka (Č. Krumlov area), you lie in a warm tub filled with water, brewer’s yeast and hops, while you drink unlimited beer from a tap. This rustic “malt bath” is said to soothe muscles and skin (the yeast releases vitamins). For example, Svachovka’s spa uses its Glok lagers and local hop extracts – you warm up in a wooden vat of amber liquid and cheers with as many 12° beers as you like. It’s a soak unlike any other! (Dress code: swimsuit; reservations strongly recommended, as it’s often booked by couples for romantic getaways.)
  • Tankovna pubs: As noted, “tankovna” are pubs serving fresh beer from on-site tanks. U Rudolfina, U Pinkasu, and Kolkovna in Prague are famous examples. Look for subtle signage – sometimes just a tank icon – or ask locals: “Tady mají tankové pivo?” (Do they have tank beer here?). At these pubs, you’ll taste Pilsner Urquell or local craft on tap that day’s batch. Most cities have at least a few tankovny; Prague alone has around 180 certified spots across the city.
  • Hop farms and Žatec (Saaz): Hop country in north Bohemia is open to visitors, especially in summer. The town of Žatec has the “Temple of Hops and Beer,” plus a Hop Museum (Zátkův Dům) explaining hop agriculture. Nearby fields are often open for tours during harvest (August). The UNESCO-listed Žatec Landscape of Saaz Hops shows rolling hop gardens. Beer nerds might also tour the Hop Research Institute in Žatec, which pioneers Czech hop varieties. Outside hop season, the town still has tasting pubs and hop monuments to enjoy.
  • Festivals and limited releases: Major beer events are spread through the year. The annual Pilsner Fest in Plzeň (early October) celebrates the anniversary of the first Pilsner batch. Every September Prague hosts the Slunce ve skle (“Sun in the Glass”) craft beer festival (usually mid-September) featuring dozens of microbrewers and homebrewers. VisitCzechia notes “Slunce ve Skle” in Pilsen in September, and Prague’s Ceský pivní festival in spring draws hundreds of beers (typically mid-May). Around Christmas, many breweries release special vanilka or medovinový (“honey”) beers, and nearly every town has a St. Nicholas brew or New Year’s stout. If you time it right, you might even catch a local beer-themed fair in a castle courtyard or a hop-picking “Open Day” event in late summer.

How Brewery Tours Work: Step-by-Step Expectations

Here’s what a typical Czech brewery tour entails, from first steps to final sip:

  1. Arrival and intro: Tours generally begin in a visitor center or brew hall where a guide explains the brewery’s history and beer types. In larger tours (Plzeň, Budvar), this may include a short film or interactive display. Guides often recap old Czech brewing traditions – for example, Pilsner Urquell’s story of the 1840s and its four ingredients (water, barley malt, yeast, Saaz hops).
  2. The process tour: You’ll then walk through production areas. This could be in small groups with audio headsets for bigger breweries, or closer groups at craft brewers. Expect to see mash tuns, lauter tuns, and fermentation tanks. Prazdroj’s Plzeň tour includes a hydraulic elevator ride to see the modern brewhouse from above. Budvar’s tour might let you stand amid tall fermentation vats.
  3. Cellars and lagering: A highlight in Czech tours is the cellar visit. Many breweries have deep cellars dug into sandstone or granite. Pilsner Urquell’s cellars stretch kilometers under the city (you may board a tram between them). The Budvar caves sit under a hill. You’ll learn how lager was traditionally aged (some tours will show oak foeders or larch barrels) and taste beer straight from casks or tanks down there.
  4. Tasting: By tour’s end, you’ll usually sample fresh lager. For example, Pilsner Urquell and Budvar yield two 0.3L tastings each in a tavern-like room. Some tours let you pour your own from a tap – the Tapster Academy goes further, teaching the perfect 3-finger foam head. In larger breweries, there may be restaurant-style tables where a guide talks you through the flavor. (Note: No one under 18 is served alcohol, so the kids get pop or juice instead.)
  5. Duration: Expect 1–2 hours total. Most main tours (Budvar, Urquell, Staropramen) last about an hour of walking plus tasting. The Original Tour in Prague’s Pilsner Experience is 60–90 minutes. Carve out extra time if you want to linger in the beer hall or shop for souvenirs afterwards.
  6. Languages: Tours are often offered in Czech and English, and in bigger breweries also German and other languages. If an English slot isn’t available on arrival, you may wait or try a combined-language group. Many smaller microbreweries only do Czech, so consider hiring a guide or going with a bilingual friend.
  7. Advance booking: For the big breweries, booking ahead (online or by phone) is strongly recommended in summer. Pilsner and Budvar fill up fast, and a confirmed slot usually guarantees your English tour. Some breweries (like Budvar) do have fixed “walk-in” tours midday, but these might not be in English. Craft breweries often require at least a day’s notice.

Tip: Check the brewery’s website or tourist board for times. For example, Pilsner Urquell Experience in Prague is open daily 11:00–20:30 (last entry 19:00) and costs 549 Kč for the standard tour with 2 beers. Budvar’s Prague Visitors’ Centre (not to be confused with the Czech brewery) also runs regular tours if you can’t reach Č. Budějovice.

Practicalities: Booking, Costs, Transport & Opening Hours

  • Booking & costs: As noted, official tours cost roughly 350–600 Kč ($15–$25) per person. Pilsner Urquell’s Prague tour is 549 Kč; Plzeň’s is 380 Kč. Budvar tours start at 180 Kč (discounted) up to 250 Kč. Always check current prices on the brewery website. If cost is a concern, many breweries allow you to pay on-site (unless you want a private group).

To save money, consider combined “beer walking tours” of Prague breweries for about $50–100 with a guide (though these vary widely in quality). Independent travelers often just hop off a tram to a local brewery or pub. Many microbreweries and brewpubs charge no tour fee but require you to buy drinks at their taproom.

  • Getting between cities: The Czech train and bus network is reliable. Prague–Plzeň is ~1¼ hours by fast train, Prague–České Budějovice ~2 hours (trains go via Tábor or Č. Krumlov). Regional buses (RegioJet, FlixBus) run the same routes for comparable times, sometimes cheaper tickets. Car rental is an option for remote brewery hunts (e.g. South Bohemia), but remember Czech law is zero-tolerance for driving with any alcohol. The train will get you close to most brewery towns; then local buses or taxis reach the brewery if it’s a bit outside town.
  • Opening hours: Most breweries are closed on national holidays (Christmas, Jan 1, etc.) and may have short hours on Sundays. Industrial breweries often allow tours only in the morning. Monastic and microbreweries may be open only in afternoons or by appointment. Always double-check online. Summer (May–Sept) is the main season when everything runs; winter can be very quiet (some micro pubs close for January).
  • Safety and rules: Czech beer is clean and safe – tap water in the Czech Republic is potable nationwide, and draft beer from taps is brewed to high hygiene standards. Always keep track of how much you drink: public drunkenness is frowned upon (you can be refused service or even escorted out of public places if overindulged). Drinking in public spaces is generally not allowed by law (the ban often goes unenforced on big pedestrian streets, but you shouldn’t drink openly in parks or quiet squares). You will be asked to show ID if you appear under 18. Taxis and public transport do not allow any alcohol (so arrange overnight lodging if you plan a big night out).
  • Money & tipping: The Czech currency is koruna (CZK). Major breweries and brewpubs accept credit cards, but many smaller taps take only cash. Have at least 500 Kč in small bills. Tipping is customary but modest – leave around 5–10% of the bill (tell the server “Zaokrouhlím” if you pay by card and just round up). When ordering, a polite “prosím” (please) after your request goes a long way.
  • Accessibility: Many newer brewpubs and brewery visitor centers have wheelchair ramps and elevators. The Prague Pilsner Experience is fully accessible; Budvar’s main building is level-entry (though the long cellar has stairs). However, traditional breweries like Budvar have limited step-free access – plan ahead (they mention one can arrange a special tour for wheelchairs). Let each brewery know if you need assistance.

Eating & Pairing: What to Order with Czech Beer

No Czech brewery visit is complete without hearty local fare. Pubs typically serve classics like svíčková (marinated beef with creamy sauce) and vepřo knedlo zelo (roast pork, dumplings, sauerkraut), which match beautifully with full-flavored lagers. Fried cheese (smažák) and schnitzel are also common pub staples. Beer itself is one of the main “pairing” ingredients – Czech gastronomy simply sees it as part of the meal.

  • Local pairings: In Pilsen, try Pilsner Klobása (sausage) with Urquell; in Budějovice, roast duck with Budvar; in Moravia, švestkový koláč (plum cake) with fruit beer from Zichovec or Bernard.
  • Taproom ordering: When you sit down, order a beer first: say “Velké pivo, prosím” for 0.5 L, or “Dvě deci bílé / tři deci černé” (20 cl light beer or 30 cl dark) if you want small sizes. After that, browse the food list. Most breweries have a single-page menu of Czech pub fare, often including vegetarian soups or salads. Meals typically cost 150–300 Kč ($6–12).
  • Etiquette: Czechs usually clink glasses after saying “Na zdraví!” with eye contact (slight eye contact is a local custom). When leaving, one says “Děkujeme, na shledanou” (Thank you, goodbye) to staff. It is polite to pay at the table (“Zaplatíme, prosím” or “Zaplatím kartou” for card) rather than leaving money on the bar.

Safety, Laws & Accessibility

A few final practical notes to keep your trip smooth:

  • Drinking age & ID: You must be 18+ to buy or taste beer. Beer tours will check ID if you look young. Under-18s can attend tours but only receive soft drinks.
  • Public drinking: Though you may see locals sipping beer in outdoor beer gardens, Czech law in general prohibits drinking in public spaces (exceptions include designated festival areas). Avoid open alcohol in parks or transit stations, as police can fine you.
  • Wheelchair & family friendliness: Many large brewery sites are wheelchair-accessible (elevators or ramps to main halls) and family-friendly. For example, the Pilsner Urquell Experience explicitly welcomes kids (they just don’t get beer), and the on-site restaurant has high chairs. Some historic cellars are not step-free (Budvar’s cellars, Pilsen’s 9 km tour). If mobility is a concern, ask ahead; Pilsner Urquell’s Prague center and Budvar’s daytime tours have most areas open to wheelchairs. Brewpubs vary – big city brewpubs usually have either ground-floor seating or an elevator, but old taverns (like U Fleků) can be narrow inside.
  • Health: Czech breweries have modern hygiene, and tap water is safe to drink anywhere. Drinking large amounts can still dehydrate you, so carry water, especially on hot days or cycling tours.

The Beer Nerd Corner: Degrees, Labels & Specialty Brews

For the scientifically curious and label-readers, here’s how to decipher some Czech beer terminology:

  • Degrees (°): Czech beers are often labeled by Balling degrees, roughly equivalent to Plato, indicating the original malt concentration. As a rule of thumb: 10° beers are about 4% ABV, 12° ~5%, 16° ~6.5%. You’ll see these on taps and labels (e.g. “Pilsner 12°,” “Kozel 10°”). A higher degree means more maltiness and body. Some breweries also label the ABV directly, but the Plato system is traditional.
  • Hops & grain: Aside from Saaz, Czech brewers use other domestic hop varieties (e.g. Premiant, Kazbek) for different flavor notes. Barley is typically non-rotated spring barley from Moravia. Ultra-traditional Czech lagers use a triple decoction mash, giving a sweet, bread-like malt character.
  • Label-reading: A Czech label may say “SVĚTLÝ LEŽÁK,” “TMAVÉ,” “POLŠER,” etc. “Světlý” means pale or light lager, “tmavý” means dark, and “polotmavý” (light-dark) is an amber-ish lager. The word “výčepní” on a label confirms a lower-strength draft beer. Alcohol is often listed simply as “4.3% alc.” (for example). If you see the brewery’s name and city (like Pilsner Urquell Plzeňský Prazdroj) along with something like “Originál Exportní,” that’s a bottled export lager.
  • Barrel-aged & rarities: Czech brewing isn’t known for whisky-barrel stouts like some Western microbreweries, but some modern Czech brewers experiment. For instance, Matuška Brewery (Moravia) releases barrel-aged strong ales and Imperial Stouts in limited runs. The small Kolštejn brewery does a “krušovice” cask-aged ale each year. You might find bottle-conditioned sour ales from microbreweries (Fin, Lambic-style) in specialty shops in Prague. However, these are niche – most Czech beer drinkers stick to the classic lager styles listed above.
  • Festivals & seasons: If you’re hunting limited editions, watch for seasonal dates: March/April often sees Jarní ležák (spring lager) releases; autumn brings stronger lagers and Märzen; Christmas brings “Vanilka” or “Bock” beers. Many pubs post flyers for local beer festivals (check bulletin boards or ask at the local tourist office).

Where to Stay (Brewery Hotels & Inns)

Beer lovers can even sleep among the barrels. A few noteworthy lodging ideas:

  • Brewery Hotels: Some breweries host guests: e.g. the Purkmistr Hotel (near Plzeň) has rooms adjacent to its brewpub. In České Budějovice, the Lokal inn offers brewery-view rooms. Check if local breweries offer guesthouses (some do).
  • Beer-friendly pensions: Many family-run pensions advertise on CzechBeerInfo.cz or TripAdvisor as “beer lovers’ stays.” These often have beer fridges and in-room taps. For example, in Č. Krumlov there’s Pension Leda with its own brewpub downstairs.
  • Castles with beer: At Orlík nad Vltavou, the castle hotel includes a taproom. Likewise, Svachova Lhota (Svachovka spa) has on-site lodging so you can soak in beer late into the evening.

When booking, mention any beer equipment you want (fridge, pourer) if that’s a dealbreaker. And remember: if bringing beer bottles home, pack them securely. Most hotels will store a cold six-pack for you to ship home cheaply.

Booking Resources & Recommended Tours

To wrap up, here are some trusted sources and partners:

  • Official sites: For tours and tickets, always start with the brewery’s own website. Pilsner Urquell’s official site sells tour tickets (Prague Experience and Plzeň brewery). Budvar’s site has its tour schedule. VisitCzechia.com lists regional beer trails and events (like Pilsner Fest).
  • Local guides: Prague brewery-walking tours (e.g. Taste Vacations or Prague Beer Tours) are reputable operators for city crawls. For a small fee, they handle logistics so you don’t worry about transport. However, they’re optional if you prefer independent travel.
  • Cautions: Be wary of unvetted “beer tour” sellers online. Always check reviews. Stick to companies that use licensed guides and provide contact info. For customized industry visits (e.g. press or private groups), contact the brewery PR department directly via email.
  • Reliable info: For up-to-date brewery hours and closures, follow Czech beer forums or Facebook groups (e.g. “Beer in Prague”). The official CzechTourism site (visitczechia.com) and City of Prague’s tourism page (prague.eu) sometimes post beer trail news.

If in doubt, tourist information offices in Prague, Plzeň and České Budějovice usually have brochures on brewery tours and local beer festivals.

FAQ

  • Which Czech breweries are “must-visit”? Top national icons are Pilsner Urquell (Plzeň) and Budějovický Budvar (České Budějovice), plus Prague’s Staropramen. Also don’t miss historic brewpubs like U Fleků (Prague, dark lager since 1499) and emerging craft brands (e.g. Matuška in the South, Chotěboř in the East). For trails, South Bohemia’s beer routes are a highlight.
  • Can I tour Pilsner Urquell and how long? Yes – two ways. In Plzeň, the Pilsner Urquell brewery tour runs ~110 minutes and costs ~380 Kč. In Prague, the Pilsner Urquell Experience museum offers a 60–90 min tour (549 Kč). Both include tastings of the signature lager.
  • Budvar vs. American Budweiser: They are different beers. Budvar (Budějovický Budvar) is the Czech “Budweiser,” state-brewed in České Budějovice. The US Budweiser is an Anheuser-Busch product. Legal disputes mean Czech Budvar is sold as “Czechvar” in North America. Each uses its own recipe and ingredients.
  • Are tours offered in English? Yes – major breweries run English-language tours. For example, Pilsner Urquell (Plzeň) tours are in Czech, German, English; Budvar tours offer English tours daily; Staropramen and others similarly. Smaller microbreweries may not always have an English guide, so check ahead.
  • Do I need to book tours in advance? It’s wise. Pilsner Urquell and Budvar can sell out in summer, so online booking ensures your spot. Budvar does have specific “drop-in” tours (e.g. daily at 2 pm), but these may not be in English. Craft breweries often require a reservation; verify via the brewery’s site or email.
  • How much do tours cost? Typically a brewery tour ranges €10–25 (150–600 Kč). Examples: Pilsner Urquell Prague tour 549 Kč, Plzeň brewery 380 Kč; Budvar 180–250 Kč. Brewpubs usually charge no tour fee, you just buy beer.
  • Transport: Getting from Prague to Pilsen/Č. Budějovice/Český Krumlov? Trains run frequently. Prague→Plzeň ~1h30 (fast trains about 1h17). Prague→Budějovice ~2h (via Tábor). Budějovice→Krumlov ~40–50 min by bus. Car rental covers rural spots, but beware winter snow. CzechRail.cz and FlixBus schedules have all options.
  • Age & ID: Must be 18+ to drink or enter tasting rooms. Czech law does not require ID to buy beer if you look over 18, but prudent to carry a passport or EU ID card anyway (especially when traveling). Breweries often check ID at entrances.
  • Family-friendly? Many tours welcome teenagers (no booze for under-18, of course). The Pilsner Experience explicitly says children enjoy it. Beer spas and alcohol tastings, however, are adults-only.
  • Is tap beer safe? Yes. Prague’s tap water is drinkable, and breweries in Czechia have modern hygiene standards. Beer on tap (especially at a tankovna) is extremely fresh. No need to worry about “stale” drafts, as long as you’re not at a dodgy tourist bar.
  • Can I buy brewery souvenirs? Certainly. Most brewery shops stock branded glasses, growlers (reusable 1–2L bottles), t-shirts and 0.5–1L bottles of beer (Czech bars often sell 1.5L growlers on the spot). You may even fill an official Budvar or Urquell growler at a taproom. Note that taking beer bottles out of EU is limited, but within Europe you can carry dozens of 0.5L bottles in checked luggage with no problem.
  • Which tours have English tastings and taprooms? Major breweries (Urquell, Budvar, Staropramen) all offer English tours including some guided tasting. Modern taprooms (like Na Spilce in Pilsen) let you taste beers freely. If you want a full English-led tasting of multiple styles, consider booking a beer sommelier dinner or a private tasting class (Pilsner offers a Tapster Academy beer-education class).
  • What to expect on a Czech brewery tour? Generally: (1) Welcome/introduction (history/story), (2) brew house visit (brewing stages, often multimedia), (3) cellar visit (where beer ages in 4–6°C stone vaults), and (4) tasting. Tours often end with two or more half-liter pours of the house lager. Some let you compare a modern tap beer vs. barrel beer. Photography is usually allowed except in sensitive areas.
  • What is a “tankovna” and where to find one? A tankovna is a bar serving beer direct from an on-site cold tank (never pasteurized). It’s the closest you’ll get to farm-fresh Pilsner Urquell. Prague has many: U Rudolfina, U Pinkas, U Supa, Kolkovna and beer gardens like Letná’s. Outside Prague, any brewery taproom with “Tank” in the name (e.g. Plzeň’s Tankovna) qualifies. Ask any Czech for “tankové pivo” or just see if they have signs of pipes and “Tank” on the tap.
  • Beer spa location: The two famous ones are Purkmistr (in a 17th-century building near Plzeň) and Svachovka (near Český Krumlov). Purkmistr’s hotel/pub offers beer baths year-round. Svachovka has a rural spa resort ambiance. Book weeks in advance, as they fill quickly for weekends.
  • Hop farms/Žatec hop region: Plan a day trip to Žatec (Saaz) in the Ústí nad Labem Region. Visit the Hop Museum (Zátkův Dům) and see the famous Hop Fountain. In August you can often tour real hop fields with local farmers. To get there, take a train from Prague (2–3h northbound, changing at Chomutov or Litoměřice). The town center is walkable and small, but worth a stop for local beer and hop souvenirs. (Žatec also has a local Žatecký pivovar where you can taste a “Žatec 12°” brew.)
  • Beer festivals & releases: Look at event calendars for: Prague’s Czech Beer Festival (mid-May), Pilsner Fest (Oct 4 celebration), Slunce ve Skle in Pilsen (Sep), and Christmas markets (craft beers). Some towns hold one-day beer fairs on patron saints’ days. Seasonal brews: spring and autumn lagers, and special Christmas vánoční beers with spices.
  • Multiday beer tours: Several operators offer all-inclusive beer tours (e.g. TasteVacations 7-day Czech Beer & Walking Vacation). They include hotels, guides, and access to private breweries. These can be good for fully relaxing (they handle transport and translation), but are pricier. For budget DIY, use this guide’s itineraries, local transit and cheap hotels/pensions.

Trending Articles

World’s Most Famous Film Locations

World’s Most Famous Film Locations

Sporades-Picturesque-Islands

Sporades - Picturesque Islands

The-great-blue-hole-Belize

The great blue hole “BELIZE”

Barcelona-La-Rambla-the-most-famous-street-for-tourists

Barcelona: La Rambla – the most famous street for tourists

The-largest-canyon-instil-awe-Grand-Canyon

The largest canyon instil awe

A Day In The Life Of A Venetian Gondolier

A Day in the Life of a Venetian Gondolier

The-Most-Extreme-Journeys-In-The-World

The Most Extreme Journeys In The World

Finding The Real Venice — Away From The Crowds

Finding the Real Venice — Away from the Crowds

Draculas-Castle-Open-For-Courageous-Guests

Dracula's Castle Open For Courageous Guests

DESTINATIONS-THAT-TOURISTS-HAVE-NOT-DISCOVERED-UNTIL-NOW

Destinations That Tourists Have Not Discovered Until Now!

Pearls-of-the-Baltic

Pearls of the Baltic

Top-10-EUROPEAN-CAPITAL-OF-ENTERTAINMENT-Travel-S-Helper

Top 10 - Europe Party Cities