Why Prague Center Still Offers Affordable Pints

Prague remains one of the most affordable European capitals for drinking. In the Czech Republic, beer is often cheaper than bottled water. This is a point of national pride. Even in the busy center, competition keeps some prices low for savvy drinkers.

Most central pubs serve Pilsner Urquell or Kozel. A standard large beer is 0.5 liters. In tourist squares, you might pay 120 CZK or more. In the spots we selected, prices are much lower. Expect to pay between 55 CZK and 75 CZK for a premium draught.

Finding these deals requires looking for local favorites in Prague. These are places where workers go after their shifts. They value consistency and a proper pour. Look for the Pilsner Urquell signs on the street to find quality tap rooms.

10 Best Spots for Cheap Beer in Prague Center

Here are the top picks for your budget-friendly beer tour. These locations are all within walking distance of major sights. They offer great value without sacrificing the local atmosphere.

• Best overall: Hospoda U Černého Vola
• Best for history: U Zlatého Tygra
• Best hidden gem: Skautský institut
• Best for families: U Glaubiců

1. Name: Hospoda U Černého Vola Type: Traditional Pub Why go: It is a legendary spot near the castle with very low prices. Best for: A quick pint after sightseeing. Where: Loretánské náměstí, Hradčany. Time: 1 hour. Cost: 50–65 CZK. Getting there: Tram 22 to Pohořelec. Tip: Check the opening hours and menu before you go.
2. Name: U Rudolfina Type: Beer Hall Why go: Excellent Pilsner served in a classic underground setting. Best for: Large groups and dinner. Where: Near the Staroměstská metro. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: 60–75 CZK. Getting there: Metro Line A to Staroměstská. Tip: Try their traditional goulash with your beer.
3. Name: Lokál Dlouhááá Type: Modern Beer Hall Why go: They serve incredibly fresh beer from tanks. Best for: People watching and fresh snacks. Where: Dlouhá Street, Old Town. Time: 1-3 hours. Cost: 65–80 CZK. Getting there: Walk from Old Town Square. Tip: Stand at the tall tables for a quick drink.
4. Name: U Jelínků Type: Historic Pub Why go: It has been serving beer for over 100 years. Best for: Seeing a real local crowd. Where: Near Národní třída. Time: 1 hour. Cost: 60–70 CZK. Getting there: Metro Line B to Národní třída. Tip: The standing room at the bar is the most authentic.
5. Name: U Zlatého Tygra Type: Traditional Pub Why go: This was a favorite spot of famous writers and presidents. Best for: A legendary atmosphere. Where: Husova Street, Old Town. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: 60–75 CZK. Getting there: Short walk from Charles Bridge. Tip: It is often crowded, so arrive early.
6. Name: U Provaznice Type: Restaurant & Pub Why go: Great prices right next to the Můstek metro station. Best for: A central lunch break. Where: Near Wenceslas Square. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: 60–75 CZK. Getting there: Metro Line A/B to Můstek. Tip: Look for their daily lunch specials.
7. Name: U Glaubiců Type: Cellar Pub Why go: Surprisingly cheap beer in the expensive Malá Strana area. Best for: Cooling off in a 700-year-old cellar. Where: Malostranské náměstí. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: 55–70 CZK. Getting there: Tram 12, 15, or 22 to Malostranské náměstí. Tip: The garden is great in summer.
8. Name: Skautský institut Type: Cafe & Bar Why go: It is a hidden courtyard right on Old Town Square. Best for: Peace and quiet in the center. Where: Old Town Square (behind a small door). Time: 1 hour. Cost: 50–65 CZK. Getting there: Walk to the Astronomical Clock. Tip: Head upstairs for the best balcony views.
9. Name: U Dvou koček Type: Brewery & Pub Why go: They brew their own beer and serve Pilsner. Best for: A lively evening with accordion music. Where: Uhelný trh. Time: 2 hours. Cost: 65–80 CZK. Getting there: Walk from Můstek. Tip: Try the house dark beer for a change.
10. Name: Pivovarský dům Benedict Type: Microbrewery Why go: They offer unique flavors like nettle or banana beer. Best for: Tasting flights. Where: Near Karlovo náměstí. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: 65–85 CZK. Getting there: Metro Line B to Karlovo náměstí. Tip: The traditional Czech food here is excellent.

What to Expect at Authentic Czech Pubs

Drinking in Prague has its own set of rules. When you sit down, place a coaster in front of you. This signals to the waiter that you want a beer. They will often bring a pint without you even asking. This is part of the local charm.

Waiters keep track of your drinks on a small slip of paper. Do not lose this paper, as it is your bill. When you are ready to leave, just say "Zaplatím" (I will pay). You should also learn the basic etiquette for ordering beer in traditional Czech pubs.

Service can sometimes feel blunt or fast. Do not take it personally; it is just the local style. Most pubs are cash-only or prefer cash for small amounts. Always carry some Czech Koruna (CZK) to be safe. You can find more info on the Visit Czechia website.

How to Save Money on Drinks in Prague

To find the best deals, avoid any place with a menu in ten languages. Look for chalkboards written only in Czech. These spots target locals rather than tourists. Walking just two blocks away from a major landmark can drop prices by 50%.

Check the price of a 0.5L beer on the menu board outside. If it is under 70 CZK, you are in a fairly priced spot. Many places also offer cheaper prices during lunch hours. You can find more details on the Prague.eu portal.

Finally, consider visiting pubs in the early afternoon. Happy hours are not common, but the atmosphere is more relaxed. You will have a better chance of getting a table. This is the best time to enjoy a quiet, cheap pint in the city center.