Quick Picks for Beer Lovers

Finding the right spot can be hard when you are thirsty. We have selected the best choices for every type of traveler. These picks will help you start your journey quickly. You can find more details in the main list below.

• Best Overall: Historický pivovar Český Krumlov for fresh local lager.
• Best for History: Krčma Šatlava for a medieval fire-cooked meal.
• Best for Families: Klášterní pivovar near the quiet monastery gardens.
• Best Free View: The terrace at Eggenberg Brewery Gardens.

Top 10 Local Brewery Tasting Experience Spots

The beer scene in this town is deep and varied. You can enjoy a unfiltered beer in a cellar or on a sunny terrace. Most places serve local brands that you cannot find anywhere else. The water used in brewing comes from local springs. This gives the beer a very clean and crisp taste. Many locals visit these spots every single day. You will meet friendly people and learn about the culture. Each location offers something unique for your visit. Here are the top spots to visit right now.

1. Name: Historický pivovar Český Krumlov Type: Brewery & Restaurant Why go: This is the main heart of brewing in the city. They produce the Krumlov brand beer on-site. The copper tanks are visible from your table. It offers a very authentic experiences for anyone visiting. Best for: Freshness and brewery vibes. Where: Latrán district near the river. Time: 1.5 to 2 hours. Cost: Moderate (approx. 60-150 CZK per beer). Getting there: Walk five minutes from the main castle gate. Tip: Try the dark lager with a heavy beef stew.
2. Name: Klášterní pivovar (Monastery Brewery) Type: Craft Brewery Why go: This spot is located inside the old monastery complex. It is much quieter than the main square. They focus on craft styles like IPAs and seasonal ales. You can see the small-batch equipment through glass walls. Best for: Craft beer enthusiasts. Where: Monasteries area in the Latrán district. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Enter through the red gate of the monasteries. Tip: Sit in the courtyard during the summer months.
3. Name: Krčma Šatlava Type: Medieval Tavern Why go: This is a world-famous tavern with an open fire. They serve beer in heavy ceramic mugs. The atmosphere is dark, smoky, and very historic. It is the best place for medieval tavern dining in town. Best for: Atmosphere and grilled meats. Where: Near the main town square. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Mid-range to high. Getting there: Walk down the narrow alley from the town square. Tip: You must book a table days in advance.
4. Name: Hospoda Na Louži Type: Traditional Pub Why go: This is a classic Czech pub with wood-paneled walls. It feels like stepping back into the 1920s. They serve Eggenberg beer which is a local favorite. The walls are covered in old tin signs and photos. Best for: Local culture and nostalgia. Where: Kájovská street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Budget-friendly. Getting there: A short walk from the Egon Schiele Art Centrum. Tip: The pickled cheese is the perfect beer snack.
5. Name: Tavern U dwau Maryí Type: Historic Experience Why go: This tavern is inside a very old house from the middle ages. They serve "Old Bohemian" platters that are great for sharing. The beer is served cold and pairs perfectly with millet and grains. Best for: Historic food pairings. Where: Parkán street by the river. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Walk along the river path from the bridge. Tip: Ask for a seat on the tiny riverside balcony.
6. Name: Deli 99 Type: Modern Craft Bar Why go: This spot offers a break from traditional Czech food. They have a great selection of bottled craft beers from across the country. It is a popular spot for younger locals and expats. Best for: Variety and a casual vibe. Where: Near the Budějovice Gate. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Walk to the northern edge of the old town. Tip: Check their chalkboard for new weekly arrivals.
7. Name: Eggenberg Brewery Gardens Type: Outdoor Beer Garden Why go: This is a massive outdoor space under large trees. It is perfect for a sunny afternoon in 2026. You can get more brewery tour details at the nearby reception. Best for: Large groups and families. Where: The eastern edge of the Latrán district. Time: 1 to 2 hours. Cost: Budget-friendly. Getting there: Follow the signs for Eggovar from the castle. Tip: This is the best place for a cheap, quick lunch.
8. Name: Budweiser Budvar Brewery Type: Day Trip / Industrial Tour Why go: This is the world-famous home of Budweiser. It is a large-scale industrial brewery with a great visitor center. You can drink beer directly from the cold storage tanks. Best for: Seeing how big beer is made. Where: České Budějovice (25km away). Time: 3 to 4 hours including travel. Cost: Moderate for the tour. Getting there: Take a 30-minute bus or train from Krumlov. Tip: Wear a jacket because the cellars are very cold.
9. Name: Pivovar Hluboká Type: Day Trip / Craft Sight Why go: Located near the famous white castle of Hluboká. This small brewery makes excellent lagers and ales. It is a great way to combine a castle visit with a tasting. Best for: A full day of sightseeing. Where: Hluboká nad Vltavou. Time: 5 hours for the whole trip. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Take a bus from the main station to České Budějovice, then transfer. Tip: Visit the castle first, then reward yourself with a beer.
10. Name: Pivovar Samson Type: Day Trip / Historic Site Why go: This is one of the oldest breweries in the region. It is located in the regional capital city. They have a long rivalry with other local brands. The beer has a distinct, slightly bitter finish. Best for: Beer history buffs. Where: České Budějovice. Time: 2 hours for the visit. Cost: Budget-friendly. Getting there: Easy bus ride from the Krumlov terminal. Tip: Look for the Samson taproom in the city center.

Tips for Your Local Brewery Tasting Experience

Drinking beer in the Czech Republic has its own rules. You should always place a coaster on the table first. This tells the server you are ready for a drink. They will often bring a beer without you asking. You must say "stop" if you do not want another one. Most locals drink their beer with a thick head of foam. This foam protects the flavor and keeps the beer fresh. Do not be surprised if the foam is very tall. It is a sign of a high-quality pour.

Many breweries offer tours but they need a booking. You should check the Visit Czechia site for current times. Some tours only run for large groups of people. If you are alone, join a public tour at the main brewery. The best time to visit is during the late afternoon. This is when the locals finish work and the pubs get lively. You will see the real heart of the town during these hours. Always carry some cash as small pubs might not take cards.