The Rising Craft Beer Scene in Plzeň

The city of Plzeň has a long brewing history. It began in 1842 with the first golden lager. Today, a new wave of brewers is emerging. These creators focus on quality and innovation. They use local hops and experimental techniques. You can find everything from traditional ales to hazy IPAs. The local community supports these small businesses. Many taprooms are located in historical buildings. This blend of old and new is very charming. Visit the Visit Plzeň website for official tourism events. The craft scene is growing every year. You will always find something new to drink in 2026.

10 Essential Craft Beer Microbreweries in Plzeň

Here are the top picks for your beer tour. These locations offer great drinks and friendly atmospheres. Most are easy to reach from the city center. We recommend trying a tasting flight at each stop. This allows you to sample many different styles. Check the Brewery Museum Plzen guide for more history. Always check local opening hours before you go. Many microbreweries have limited seating on weekends.

• Name: Purkmistr Type: Microbrewery & Experience Why go: It features an amazing beer spa and traditional Czech food. Best for: Relaxation and large groups. Where: Černice neighborhood. Time: 2-4 hours. Cost: Moderate to high. Getting there: Take trolleybus 13 from the city center. Tip: View Purkmistr brewery Plzen beer spa prices before booking.
• Name: Pivovar Raven Type: Modern Craft Brewery Why go: Known for the best IPAs and sours in the region. Best for: Craft beer enthusiasts. Where: Bolevec district. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Tram 1 or 4 to the northern suburbs. Tip: Try their seasonal fruit-infused beers.
• Name: Pivovar Beer-Garage Type: Thematic Taproom Why go: It has a cool rock and metal atmosphere. Best for: Music lovers and casual nights out. Where: Doudlevce area. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Budget-friendly. Getting there: Trolleybus 14 or 16. Tip: Look for the vintage motorcycle decor inside.
• Name: Pivovar Proud Type: Industrial Microbrewery Why go: Located in a former power plant at the Urquell site. Best for: History buffs and experimental beer fans. Where: Pilsner Urquell Brewery grounds. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Short walk from the main train station. Tip: Take the guided tour to see the brewing tech.
• Name: Pivovar U Pašáka Type: Traditional Brewpub Why go: Serves classic unfiltered lagers in a cozy setting. Best for: A quiet lunch with local beer. Where: Near the Plzen historical underground tours entrance. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Budget-friendly. Getting there: Walk from the main square. Tip: Their dark lager is highly recommended.
• Name: Pivovar Groll Type: Historical Brewery Why go: Named after the creator of Pilsner lager. Best for: Traditionalists and history lovers. Where: Near the river, close to the center. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: A 10-minute walk from Republic Square. Tip: Sit in the courtyard during summer months.
• Name: Pivovar Kalikovák Type: Riverside Brewery Why go: Beautiful location by the Mže river with a large terrace. Best for: Families and sunny afternoons. Where: Radčická street. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Walk along the river path from the center. Tip: Great spot for a break during a bike ride.
• Name: Bandaska (Zlatá Kráva Taproom) Type: Modern Taproom Why go: Features award-winning beers from the nearby Nepomuk brewery. Best for: Trying multiple styles in a trendy setting. Where: City center near the theater. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Any tram to the city center. Tip: The "Plnotučná" lager is a local favorite.
• Name: Pivovar Radobyčice Type: Village Microbrewery Why go: Offers a peaceful atmosphere away from the city noise. Best for: A quiet escape into the suburbs. Where: Radobyčice village. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Budget-friendly. Getting there: Bus 32 from the main station. Tip: Check their Facebook for weekend grill events.
• Name: Pivovar Poděbrad Type: Neighborhood Brewpub Why go: Authentic local vibe with very fresh beer. Best for: Meeting locals and casual drinking. Where: Doudlevce district. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Budget-friendly. Getting there: Trolleybus 13 or 14. Tip: Try the pickled camembert with your beer.

Unique Beer Day Trips Near Plzeň

Sometimes you need to leave the city center. There are great spots just a short trip away. These locations combine beer with history or nature. You can enjoy a hike and then a drink. This is the perfect way to spend a Saturday. Always bring a map or use a GPS app. The Czech countryside is beautiful and easy to navigate.

• Name: Radyně Castle Type: Day Trip & Sightseeing Why go: Hike to the ruins and enjoy a beer nearby. Best for: Active travelers and photographers. Where: Starý Plzenec. Time: 4-5 hours. Cost: Low. Getting there: See our guide for the Radyně Castle ruins hike. Tip: Visit the local brewery in Starý Plzenec after your hike.
• Name: Air Park Zruč Type: Eclectic Experience Why go: See a massive collection of planes and tanks. Best for: Families and military history fans. Where: Zruč-Senec. Time: 3 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Read about Air Park Zruč near Plzeň for transport. Tip: There is a small snack bar with local beer on-site.

Tips for Navigating Plzeň’s Beer Culture

Drinking beer in Plzeň is a social ritual. It is important to know some local rules. Always say "Na zdraví" when you toast. This means "to your health" in Czech. Most places will bring a new beer automatically. Put a coaster down to signal you want a drink. If you are finished, leave your glass empty. For more travel advice, visit the Visit Czechia portal. Public transport is the best way to move around. Do not drink and drive in the Czech Republic. The law has a zero-tolerance policy for alcohol. Use the PMDP app to buy tickets for trams and buses.