Prague Beer & Breweries Pocket Guide is your one-stop primer on the best beers to seek out & the most traditional places to enjoy them. The unofficial “most beautiful city in Europe” has lots of non-beery attractions. Beyond the famed Charles Bridge and Astronomical Clock lie innumerable timeless backstreets. Wandering around between beers is the best way to experience both: the town’s Old World charms and renowned beer culture. Prague is understandably popular even with people who don’t like beer. So, try to go off-season and make the effort to get out early in the morning to avoid crowds, and get the best photos.
As a frequent returning visitor to Prague with native friends, I have a local’s pulse on not only the Prague beer scene but also some less touristy pubs to enjoy them in. *Note: Prague Beer & Breweries Map provides location/contact info/address/websites.
Pilsner in Prague
Czech beer can appear overly simple to the newcomer, at least if you stick with traditional styles. Most people immediately think of Pilsner when it comes to Prague. Though the “style” has become ubiquitous around the world, in Czechia there is only one, Plzeňský prazdroj (Pilsner Urquell), which comes from Pilzen. In the 1990s, there were only a handful of Prague pubs serving the now easy to find beer. It currently dominates but it’s important to seek it out in its best form. When it comes to drinking this golden elixir, tankovna is the word to look for. This is beer from the tank, rather than keg. It’s unpasteurized and delivered temperature controlled. Most importantly, it’s fresh.
Traditional Czech beer styles in Prague
Traditional Czech pivo (beers) are lagers. This includes Pilsner Urquell, likely the first golden lager ever brewed. Don’t get too caught up beer styles in Prague. Aside from the ubiquitous Pilsner Urquell, you will see Světlý ležák (light lager) and Tmavý ležák (dark lager). The very darkest are called Černý (black). If you ask for a pivo, you will invariably get a light lager. If you want a dark one, just stipulate it. Another typical option is Rezaný, where they mix the two like a half and half in the UK. This is not to be confused with Polotmavý ležák, which is an amber style gaining popularity. It’s an old style revived by Staropramen and their Garnat is often copied.
Prague Craft Beer
With the proliferation of Craft Beer in Prague, you will see the full array of ales. These are generally excellent as you would expect from the uniformly highly skilled Czech brewers. Though I’ve had a few, I tend to stick to the traditional lagers. Thankfully, even the newer breweries all make their takes on the traditional lagers, Czechia’s calling card.
What are degrees Plato?
The other continuum of the Czech beer is that of strength. Degrees on the Plato scale refers to sugar density in the wort. Unless you’re a brewer, this isn’t important to know but it leads to higher alcohol content. To give you some perspective, 12° beers are about 5%. You will commonly see 10° light colored beers. They are the session beers which most locals drink. Accordingly, the lower the degree, the less expensive the beer. So, you can drink more for your money and not get too drunk as well. You sometimes see 8° which are surprisingly tasty for the low alcohol content. Czech brewers excel at making good beers which aren’t strong. You will also see 13° light beers, in the Festbier direction. Typically, the dark lagers are 13° or slightly higher.
Prague beer pubs
Prague has no shortage of great breweries but where it really excels is in pubs and beer halls. These atmospheric bustling venues with old world charm are tailor made for imbibing. Don’t be surprised if you get a beer without even ordering one. Why else would you be there?
Prague beer snacks and food
Drinking beer in Prague without enjoying the local dishes is missing half of the point. From hearty pork knuckles (vepřové koleno) to simple pickled sausages (utopenici) and potato pancakes (bramboráky), you won’t go hungry in Prague. In simple pubs, the latter are very reasonably priced and you’ll find the beer tastes even better with a few nibbles.
Best Prague pubs?
There are literally 100s of pubs in Prague but these are some of my favorites. Please, use Prague Beer Map in name link for contact info/location/opening hours.
Hostomická Nalévárna is the in town brewery tap for Pivovar Hostomice. This noted brewery is about 45 km southwest of Prague so this pub is a true godsend. The basic wood interior is about as authentic as it gets and the service is surprisingly friendly and efficient. They just have a few snack options but generally have three beers on tap, with occasional specials. Go early to assure getting one of the limited tables. Aside from securing one, the toughest part is deciding which beers is your favorite. They’re all called Fabian to further confuse you but use your Plato knowledge to pick between the 10°, 12° and dark 14°. It’s so good, we usually stay around the corner and go here every day, even if just for a nightcap.
U Černého vola (The Black Ox) somehow manages to be a true locals’ pub and attract a fair number of beer tourists. It’s not so far from the castle complex but in the opposite direction from town. It’s a very pretty historical area many people miss but that’s good for the pub, which is generally very busy. The facade is quite ornate but the wooden interior is simple aside from the old brown tile wood burning oven and wall decorations. Though a noted outlet for Pilsner Urquell, their 10° offering is Kozel which most locals seem to drink. For dark beer lovers, they have Kozel Dark. They have simple snacks but also hot dishes at main meal times. Though quiet during the week in the afternoon, it’s quite busy in the evenings. It’s a great spot to get a reprieve from the castle area bustle in an authentic place.
Bar Konírna is a small central pub converted from an old stable. It’s cozy and a nice stop for a quick decent inexpensive snack, best washed down with Bernard Dark 12°. They carry a full assortment of this medium size brewery’s range.
Prague beer gardens
Mrtvá Ryba (Dead Fish) is a stylish student pub with a nice outside seating area adjacent to a botanical garden. I must admit, it was a gorgeous day and this latter fact is what drew us here. They also have a changing range of beers from small regional and lesser known Prague breweries like Kristýna. Daily food specials sound eclectic. We enjoyed both the Kristýna Mates 10° and Kořen 11°. This will be a go-to on sunny days.
Best Pilsner Urquell in Prague
This trio of pubs will provide not only Tankovna beer but an authentic experience.
U Zlatého tygra (The Golden Tiger) is one of Prague’s most noted due to its history with photos of various luminaries on the wall including Bill Clinton. It’s got a raucous beer hall atmosphere and generally fills up pretty quickly right after opening. Long communal tables make it easy enough to squeeze in. If going with a larger group, I’d advise going early. They have surprisingly good quality snacks (cold rare roast beef) and some of the best Pilsner Urquell in town. Service seems gruff but it’s mostly aimed at people who don’t know what they want. What you want is beer in case you forgot.
U Hrocho (The Hippo) is a surprisingly local hole-in-the-wall tucked just a street back from the main touristy area over the Charles Bridge. The simple interior has plenty of hippo adornments in case you didn’t care to translate its name. Largely inhabited with locals throwing down some of the best Pilsener Urquell in town, arriving early is your best bet for securing one of the limited seats. Once in position, beers are all to easy to come by. In fact, you will have a harder time leaving than getting a spot. Another nice surprise, it took me a few visits to sort out, is they actually have decent food at very reasonable prices. The pork knuckle was ample for two.
Jelínkova Plzeňská Pivnice is a small stand up bar with a slightly larger back room. With unusual opening hours and a very much mostly local male clientele, it’s one to generally do with the guys. I did drag my wife there and she enjoyed the snack and excellent Pilsner Urquell, if not so much the stares. If you’re looking for an early beer, it’s a great choice and probably best time to get a seat.
Best breweries in Prague
With over 20 breweries, I must admit that even with many visits under my belt, I am still figuring that out as well as trying to make time to get to new ones. Staropramen is not only Prague’s largest but the second in the country. Though not a personal favorite, you can also be find it from the tank. If seeking it out, tankovna is what you should look for. You won’t have a problem finding them but I’d suggest skipping it unless your time is ample. There are too many other great choices.
U Flecků
U Flecků is not only the most famous beer hall in Prague but also a noted brewery. Yes, it’s touristy but for good reason. That’s what you get when you have a museum piece beer hall dating back to 1499. It’s quite possibly the most stunning interior in the beer world, at least of ones on a grand scale. Dark wood abounds with plenty of stained glass. Once upon a time, there was only a one dark beer, Tmavé 13 but they’ve sadly added a light beer. They also now serve the beer in a sneaky .4L glass and charge more than just about any .5L beer in town. Beware of expensive shots pushed on the unsuspecting. For first time Prague visitors, it’s a must go. It opens at 10:00 in the morning. That’s when I go and during the week if you can arrange it.
Vinohradský pivovar
Vinohradský pivovar is modern upscale affair with excellent food and a bit more flair. If your tastes run to swank American brewpubs, this is your place. Make no mistakes, though, they brew excellent beer in both the lager and ale categories. I found both the 11° and 12° quite dry and hoppy. Our meals were super and a nice reprieve from typical Czech cuisine.
Břevnovský klášterní pivovar
Břevnovský klášterní pivovar claims to have been the oldest monastic brewery in Czechia, dating back to 933. Unfortunately, it ceased operating in 1889 and the current secular operation started in 2017. It’s still very much worth the tram ride out to this quiet little oasis with two venues. Klášterní šenk is the full service eatery with a rustic flair and excellent food. They only have the Břevnovský Benedict Světlý ležák 12° and Břevnovský Benedict Světlý Tamave 12° on tap. Both are excellent with the dark beer going particularly well with some of the hearty dishes like the lamb shank or duck confit.
Klášterní Výčep is a simpler venue just across the courtyard that is self-service and has cold snacks. There’s a bigger line-up of their beers if looking to sample more of their styles. They have a very pleasant outside seating area if you find yourself there on a nice day. We had a few beers here while waiting for our table across the courtyard. The main restaurant is quite busy for Sunday lunch so a reservation is a good idea.
Pivovarský dům Benedict
Pivovarský dům Benedict is another modern brewpub with a bit more traditional flair to the interior. Along with a full line-up of traditional lagers, they do some of their own more Craft Beer leaning ales. They also offer some guest beers from Břevnovský klášterní pivovar if you don’t plan to make the pilgrimage there. It’s also very much a restaurant and if you’re going during meal times, you might get the odd look if just drinking. The service was swift enough nonetheless. We enjoyed the Tankový Benedict 12° and Tmavý ležák 11°.
Pivovar Strahov
Pivovar Strahov is another former monastic brewery come to life, this time in 2011. With its proximity to the castle area, it makes for a convenient stop. It’s understandably popular. They have a malty Polotmavé and rich Tmavé, as well as IPAs for those looking for something hoppier. The smaller .4L pours are sadly more expensive than most. Some small cold plates make sharing a snack an option. Generally speaking, it’s a pricey place but it’s to be expected given the location and overall quality.
Loď Pivovar
Loď Pivovar certainly has one of the more interesting concepts and locations. Housed on a boat on the river, it’s got a cruise ship feel, albeit a simple one. I’ll admit to being a bit skeptical but we had a gorgeous day so sitting on the river sounded perfect. The beers were surprisingly good if not up with the very best. We quite liked the 13 Monarchie, a rich dark lager as well as the standard 12 Republika. A cold-hopped 12 Remorker was nice too but the 10 Legie wasn’t so great. We weren’t super hungry but a few things caught our eye. The creamy soup with mushrooms, fresh dill and a poached egg was excellent and we split a quite rich order of dumpling stuffed with smoked meat and sauerkraut. We shared a fruit dumpling for dessert.
Pivovar Bašta
Pivovar Bašta is a small brewery which is part of U Bansethů, a legendary Pilsner Urquell outlet. They share the same kitchen but the Basta beers seemed to be only available on its side. We quite enjoyed the food, especially the soup but the beer was perhaps our least favorite of that particular trip. I’d probably sit on the other side and drink what is reportedly a great pint of PU.
Pivovar U Tří růží
Pivovar U Tří růží (The Three Roses) has a great location so stopping in is easy enough but I’ve only done it once despite its convenience. I’ve walked by it many times since. It’s been quite a few years so perhaps it’s improved. At the time, we found the Tmavý speciál 14° the better of the two sampled.
Best Craft Beer in Prague
It’s actually quite good but I don’t tend to seek it out. That said, it’s great value compared to buying similar beers in the US or most of Europe. If looking to try them, here are a few options:
Hostivar
Hostivar is reportedly one of the best of the newer breweries in Prague. It’s quite a bit out of the center but still technically in town. Our friends live nearby so we went quite a few years ago, not long after it opened. We were surprised at how good it was as well as being quite a bit less expensive than similar places in the center. We had the Světlá 11° and Polotmavá 12° as well as a few seasonal beers. The food was excellent and the place was very bustling. I guess they are doing well as according to their website, they have quite a few locations now. If you want to get away from the tourists, this place fits the bill.
Matuška Pivovar
Automat Matuška is the Prague brewery tap for the Matuška Pivovar, a mini-brewery 30 minutes west of town. Starting in 2009 with a special dark beer, they are best known as one of the first Czech breweries to make an IPA. Though you can sample the beers at the brewery itself which now has a food truck, the convenient Automat is tough to beat. With squeaky clean cafeteria atmosphere and an eclectic BBQ themed menu, it attracts a young crowd. We had the DESÍTKA 10° and DVANÁCTKA 12°, both hoppy lagers. They had quite a few ales as well.
Sibeeria
Sibeeria Tap Room is the brewery tap in central Prague of the less central innovative Craft Brewery which landed in Vysočany district in 2020. The almost futuristic pub has a full range of adventurous beers and very friendly staff. Stopping in for a nightcap, we were so happy to see a Black IPA that we didn’t notice it had kola nuts in the recipe. To be fair, it was called Voodoo Midnight Coke. Needless to say, it wasn’t for us but I’d try something less adventurous next time. If you’re looking for a Blood Orange Gose or Coconut Porter, this is your place.
Beer-themed restaurants in Prague
These beer-themed restaurants run the gamut from beer halls to cozy pubs focusing on food. Some could be seen as must eats, but generally you’ll find a beer you’ll be glad you tried.
U Sumavy is on the verge of being kitschy but in a nice Cracker Barrel kind of homey way. That’s with a Czech flair, of course. The food is very much Czech but with a few added twists which has us returning for a meal each trip. They also have a nice range of beers on tap which are not all that common. Our go to is Cerná Svine 13°, a gorgeous black beauty in a pig logo mug. The Vycpaná Vidra 12° is a light hoppy offering we enjoyed too. The garlic soup is to die for. Živáň’s kettle has meat, onion, pepperoni, peppers, sausage and baked potatoes, smothered in melted cheese. My wife loves the grilled chicken breast filled with leaf spinach and bacon served with mashed potatoes and spring onion.
U Pinkasů is another noted Pilsner Urquell outlet but one more food-oriented. It’s a bit upscale but great for a special meal while retaining a traditional feel. There is an interesting courtyard seating area out back, a great respite on a hot day as it’s very shady. It’s much nicer than the street side seating out front. Along with the tankova PU, they have Kozel Dark and some interesting bottles. Pilsner Urquell Master Dark 18° at 7% was a nice after dinner treat on a birthday trip one year.
Budvar beer in Prague
U Medvídků is a beer-themed hotel & spa, with a handy beer hall attached. The Budwar is from the tank and one of the best outlets in Prague. It’s a good place to finally see what the fuss is about without traveling down to České Budějovice. A bonus is their having Budvar Dark on tap, still a tasty tipple when paired with pork in a dark sauce. From hotel photos, it looks like you can take a bath in beer, resplendent with beer on tap in the tub. There is an attached small mini-brewery which does specialty beers. These are only available in bottles and most of them in their beer souvenir shop. The beers on tap are from the large Pivovar Budvar.
Best steak in Prague
Kantýna is an intriguing concept, an upscale butcher shop with beer on tap. Be sure to pick up an ordering card on the way in. You can get hot meals at a cafeteria type dispensary or go to the butcher stand and pick out something to be cooked. The food is weighed and your card is marked. There is a beer dispensary with Pilsner Urquell and Kozel Dark. They’ll also mark your card. Grab a table and pay on the way out. If going at a busy time, it’s best to get a table and leave someone there.
The steak we got wasn’t cheap by any means but was exceptional and certainly more reasonable than we’d pay back home in Munich. Other highlights were the bone marrow and carpaccio. After the hearty meal, we needed a Baron Hildprandt (pear brandy), which came in an eye-catching glass. A real bonus is its proximity to the train station, making it a great last stop. We actually did it as a first stop too. The food was that good.
Bullerbyn is a cute cafe with a large selection of cocktails and varied meal options including some for vegans. It was an outlet for Herold Dark, which was one of my favorite dark Czech beers on my first trip in 1997. It was also convenient for our Czech friends to meet us for dinner as in the direction of their district and easy enough for them to park. We’ve not been back and looking at their website, it looks like they now have Poutník světlý 11° on tap plus a guest beer. Our friends had never heard of the place but really liked it. We had them at Hostomice this past trip and they loved it too They’re always amazed at how foreigners find so many good places in their hometown but when you love beer, you make a point of it.
What’s the best way to get around Prague?
Prague has an incredible and extensive public transportation system. The Metro is somewhat limited but useful for longer distances. The tram network will get you anywhere you need to go in the center, and even beyond. Buy a day pass to make your life easier. Otherwise tickets are for time intervals like 30-, 60- or 90-minutes. You have to stamp paper tickets before boarding. They will almost definitely check you for tickets. So, don’t even think about riding without one. It is very reasonable and you can get them with their App as well. Their website is quite helpful and available in English: www.dpp.cz/en. Fares are half-price for those over 60 years old but you must have your ID with you to prove it. It’s free if you are over 65. This applies to non-citizens as well, which is quite a friendly deal.
Are there beer hikes in Prague?
Prague beer & breweries will more than keep you busy but if you have the time, I can highly recommend this small excursion:
Prague Beer & Breweries Map:
I hope The Prague Beer & Breweries Pocket Guide makes your visit a thirst-quenching one. If it’s helped you find some new places, please consider buying me a beer 🍺!
What a great and comprehensive resource and guide!
Thanks, Don. Hope you get to put it to use one day. Happy Thanksgiving.
Stopped in Prague summer of 2024 and while breweries and pubs were not on my agenda, I was still able to enjoy the local beers at a few restaurants. Did stroll across Letna Beer Garden above the river. Had a great view back over the city so stopped for a few beers. Coming from the USA as well as several other larger European cities that trip, one thing that stood out of beers in Prague – the reasonable if not cheap price of beers! An added bonus! I was surprised to find an enjoyed the dark beers over the lagers- I am normally a Pilsner guy and figured in Prague, Pilsner is the way to go. But I loved the dunkel there.
Sorry I didn’t have the guide ready for your last trip but Prague is a place to return to again, and again. Still one of the most affordable places too.
Apology accepted. lol. I will definitely use your info the next time I am in Prague. I imagine there are some other cities/areas you may visit with beer in the Czech Republic?
I traveled quite a bit around Czechia in the late 90s/early 2000s but the information would be totally dated and I’d have to scan film era photos. I wrote posts for Virtual Tourist back then but it was bought up and deleted by Trip Advisor. Like I said though, the information would be dated. Not sure if or when I’ll get back to some of those small villages but it was a great adventure at the time.