Exploring the Exciting Craft Beer Scene of Prague

Prague is the stunningly beautiful capital city of the Czech Republic, and over the last several years it has become a favorite for tourists and digital nomads alike. It’s an easily walkable city full of history and beautiful architecture, as well as some of the best craft beer in Europe.

Prague has a long history with beer – it’s biggest brands Staropramen and Budvar are both based here, and the city itself has traditionally been known as a beer-loving place. Craft beer however has exploded here over the last 10 years, with dozens of microbreweries serving up interesting and innovative flavors while resurrecting the old Czech tradition of brewing.

If you’re a craft beer fan looking to explore the Prague craft beer scene, you’re in for a treat. Here’s everything you need to know about the taste of Prague.

A Brief History of Czech Beer

The brewing tradition in Prague dates back to 993 CE with the founding of the Břevnov Monastery. Over the years, brewers across the country developed unique local styles which eventually resulted in the famed Pilsner, first brewed in 1842.

The beer scene changed a lot during the Communist era, as small breweries were forced to close in favor of larger state-run facilities producing mass-produced lagers. Things changed in 1989 with the Velvet Revolution, which eventually led to a craft beer renaissance here. Although there are still large lagers such as Budvar and Staropramen produced here, hundreds of different microbreweries exist here now, each producing their own unique selection of ales, stouts, lambics, and more.

Where to Find Prague’s Best Brews

Prague is a great city to explore for craft beer fanatics, with dozens of pubs, taprooms, and microbreweries located in its many districts. Here are just some great places to start exploring:

• U Fleků: Founded in 1499, this iconic brewery is one of the oldest in Europe. It’s serves a single dark lager that’s brewed according to ancient recipes – and still served from original wooden barrels.
• U Medvídků: This legendary pub is home to the first and only Czech microbrewery, founded by Václav Berka in 1994. The brewpub serves various ales at a variety of strengths year round.
• Klášterní Pivovar Strahov: Since 2002, this monastery brewery has been producing award-winning honey lagers and AleStrong ales using traditional methods.

For those looking for an even deeper dive into the craft beer culture here, there’s no better way to do it than on a beer tour. An easy way to experience multiple breweries at once and learn from knowledgeable guides, Prague’s numerous beer tours let you try beers from all over the city and even visit smaller brewpubs tucked away off the beaten path. One of the best is the Prague: Brewery Tour with Unlimited Tasting, which will get you plenty of unique samples while helping you navigate this bustling but beautiful city.

Conclusion

Prague has always been known for its beer scene, but today this city offers some of the best craft beer in Europe. From traditional breweries to hip new pubs, it’s easy to explore the diverse range of flavors produced here. To make sure you get to sample them all – while also getting a unique look at this amazing city – we recommend booking one of Prague’s many brewery tours. We especially like Prague: Brewery Tour with Unlimited Tastings, a four hour long tour that takes you from one end of Prague to the other while sampling plenty of local craft beers along the way.

An Insider’s Guide to Exploring the Exciting Craft Beer Scene of Prague

Local Attractions: Uncovering Hidden Gems

Prague is known for its stunning architecture and historical landmarks, but there’s much more to this city than what meets the eye. For a unique experience that only locals know about, head to Kampa Island and explore its hidden gardens, picturesque alleys, and charming cafes. Visit the John Lennon Wall, where you can leave your mark on the ever-changing art piece inspired by the Beatles singer.

If you’re a fan of art, make sure to check out the DOX Centre for Contemporary Art, which often hosts exhibitions by local and international artists. For a peaceful escape from the bustle of the city, visit the Petřín Hill, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of Prague from the observation tower.

Dining Spots: A Delicious Journey Through Prague’s Food Culture

Prague’s culinary scene is rich and diverse, with a variety of traditional dishes and modern twists. For a truly unique dining experience, try chlebíčky: open-faced sandwiches with a variety of toppings such as egg salad, ham and pickles, or smoked salmon and cream cheese. Cafe Savoy and Eska are renowned for their modern take on Czech cuisine, while Lokál Dlouháá, housed in a historic building, offers a cozy atmosphere and traditional Czech beer on tap.

If you have a sweet tooth, don’t leave Prague without trying trdelník, a popular pastry made by wrapping dough around a stick, grilling it over an open flame, and then dusting it with cinnamon and sugar. You can find this sweet treat in numerous street food stands across the city.

Cultural Experiences: Discovering Prague’s Rich Tradition and Art Scene

Prague is a city with a rich cultural heritage, and you can experience it in the many festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions that take place throughout the year. If you’re a fan of classical music, make sure to attend a performance of the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra at the Rudolfinum. For a more alternative musical experience, check out the Cross Club, a quirky bar and concert venue housed in a converted warehouse.

If you’re interested in history and art, the National Gallery in Prague offers a unique collection of Czech and international art across various centuries. Visit the Prague Castle, the largest ancient castle in the world, which has been the seat of power for Czech kings, emperors, and presidents for over a thousand years.

Local History: Uncovering Captivating Stories from the Past

Prague has a complex and fascinating history that is still visible in the many architectural styles and monuments that dot the city. One of the best ways to learn about Prague’s history is by taking a walk through the Jewish Quarter, where you can see numerous synagogues, the Old Jewish Cemetery, and the Museum of Jewish Heritage.

The Lennon Wall, previously mentioned, is another interesting piece of Prague’s history. The wall became a symbol of resistance against the communist regime in the 1980s, when young Czechs began painting John Lennon-inspired graffiti on the wall.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Experiencing Prague Beyond the Conventional

If you’ve covered all of the quintessential Prague sights and want something different, there are still plenty of unique and memorable experiences to be had. Rent a paddleboat on the Vltava River for a relaxing afternoon on the water. For a thrilling way to see the city, take a sunset helicopter ride and soar over the city’s rooftops as the sun sets.

Finally, visit the Letná Beer Garden, a favorite spot for locals to enjoy a cold beer in the company of stunning views of the city. Prague has a growing craft beer scene, with numerous microbreweries and pubs to try out.

In conclusion, Prague is a city that has something for everyone, whether you’re interested in history, art, food, or culture. Whether exploring hidden gardens, indulging in traditional cuisine, discovering local art, uncovering interesting historical stories, or experiencing off-the-beaten-path activities, Prague is sure to leave a lasting impression.