The Best Plzeň Local Pubs and Beer Halls

Finding the right place for a drink is easy in this city. Most Plzeň local pubs and beer halls are within walking distance of the center. You can enjoy a mix of old-world charm and new craft styles. Here are the top picks for your next visit.

• Best overall: Na Parkánu
• Best for history: U Salzmannů
• Best craft beer: Raven Pub City
• Best for families: Purkmistr

1. Name: Na Parkánu Type: sight/experience Why go: This is one of the few places serving unfiltered Pilsner Urquell. The beer comes directly from the brewery. Best for: Beer purists Where: Veleslavínova street Time: 1-2 hours Cost: Moderate Getting there: Walk from Republic Square Tip: Try the beer bread with their famous garlic spread.
2. Name: U Salzmannů Type: experience Why go: This is the oldest pub in Plzeň. It offers a very traditional atmosphere with dark wood and history. Best for: Historical vibes Where: Pražská street Time: 2 hours Cost: Moderate Getting there: Located near the main square Tip: Book a table in advance for dinner on weekends.
3. Name: Beer Factory Type: microbrewery Why go: A modern space with brewing equipment on display. They offer several unique house-brewed lagers and ales. Best for: Modern atmosphere Where: Dominikánská street Time: 1-2 hours Cost: Moderate Getting there: Short walk from the cathedral Tip: Sample their seasonal specials which change every month.
4. Name: Raven Pub City Type: experience Why go: Raven is a top local craft brewery. This pub serves their best IPAs and stouts in the city center. Best for: Craft beer lovers Where: Plachého street Time: 1-3 hours Cost: Moderate Getting there: Near the Great Theatre Tip: Ask for a tasting flight to try multiple styles.
5. Name: Lékárna Type: traditional Why go: Located right on the main square. It is known for the perfect "hladinka" pour of Pilsner. Best for: People watching Where: Republic Square Time: 1 hour Cost: Moderate Getting there: Central location Tip: Sit outside in summer for views of the cathedral.
6. Name: Purkmistr Type: experience Why go: This microbrewery also features a famous beer spa. You can soak in beer and drink it at the same time. Best for: Relaxation Where: Černice district Time: 3-4 hours Cost: High Getting there: Take trolleybus line 13 Tip: Read a full Purkmistr microbrewery and beer spa review before you go.
7. Name: Pilsner Urquell Brewery Cellars Type: iconic sight Why go: You can drink unfiltered beer in the historic tunnels. It is the most authentic experience in the city. Best for: First-time visitors Where: U Prazdroje Time: 2 hours Cost: Moderate Getting there: Walk from the city center Tip: Book your tour on the Pilsner Urquell Brewery website early.
8. Name: Klub Malých Pivovarů Type: local experience Why go: This "Club of Small Breweries" features rotating taps. You can find rare beers from all over the country. Best for: Variety Where: Nádražní street Time: 2 hours Cost: Low Getting there: Near the main train station Tip: Check their chalkboard for the daily tap list.
9. Name: Lokál Pod Divadlem Type: traditional Why go: Part of a famous Czech chain. They focus on extremely fresh tank beer and high-quality ingredients. Best for: Fresh tank beer Where: Bezručova street Time: 1-2 hours Cost: Moderate Getting there: Next to the J.K. Tyl Theatre Tip: This is a great place to try authentic Czech lunch options.
10. Name: Švejk Restaurant "U Pětatřicátníků" Type: cultural Why go: Named after the famous Czech literary character. It feels like stepping back into the Austro-Hungarian era. Best for: Cultural immersion Where: Riegrova street Time: 2 hours Cost: Moderate Getting there: Near the city center Tip: Look at the funny illustrations on the walls.
11. Name: Radyně Castle Ruins Type: day trip Why go: A great way to burn off beer calories. The hike offers panoramic views of the Plzeň region. Best for: Nature and views Where: Starý Plzenec Time: 4 hours Cost: Low Getting there: Take a local train or bus Tip: Follow the guide for a Radyně Castle ruins hiking trip.
12. Name: Bolevec Ponds Type: nature Why go: A series of ponds perfect for a walk. Many locals come here to relax with a beer by the water. Best for: Summer days Where: Northern Plzeň Time: 2-3 hours Cost: Free Getting there: Take tram line 1 Tip: Check out the Bolevec ponds hiking and swimming options.

What to Eat at Plzeň Local Pubs and Beer Halls

Beer is rarely enjoyed alone in Plzeň. Local pubs offer a variety of snacks called "pivní sýr" or beer cheese. This is a pungent cheese you mix with onions and mustard. It pairs perfectly with a cold lager. You should also try "utopenec," which is a pickled sausage with peppers.

For a larger meal, look for roasted pork knee. This dish is massive and usually shared by two people. It comes with horseradish, mustard, and fresh bread. Many local favorites in Plzeň include these hearty classics. They provide the perfect base for a long evening of drinking.

Don't forget to try the local goulash. In Plzeň, it is often made with a splash of dark beer. This gives the sauce a rich and deep flavor. Most beer halls serve it with bread dumplings. It is a warm and comforting meal for cold winter days.

Practical Tips for Plzeň Beer Culture

Drinking in Plzeň has its own set of rules. When you sit down, place a coaster in front of you. This tells the server you want a beer. They will bring a fresh pint without you even asking. They keep track of your drinks with tally marks on a small paper slip.

Always say "Na zdraví" when clinking glasses. Make sure to look your friends in the eye. Never cross your arms with others while clinking. These small gestures show respect for the local culture. Most people in Plzeň are very friendly to tourists who follow these customs.

Tipping is expected but usually modest. You can round up the bill to the nearest ten or twenty crowns. For excellent service, a 10% tip is standard. Check the Visit Plzeň website for more etiquette advice. It is helpful to carry some cash for smaller neighborhood pubs.

Exploring Beyond Plzeň Local Pubs and Beer Halls

Plzeň offers more than just great drinks. You can explore the Plzeň historical underground tour to see medieval cellars. These tunnels were once used for storing food and beer. It is a cool escape during the hot summer months. The tours start near the Brewery Museum.

For art lovers, visit the DEPO2015 cultural zone. This former bus depot now hosts exhibitions and creative workshops. It shows the modern, industrial side of the city. It is a great place to see how Plzeň has evolved over the years.

If you want to see the whole region, check the Visit Czechia portal. There are many trails and small villages nearby. Plzeň is a great base for exploring Western Bohemia. You can find a mix of history, nature, and industry all in one trip.