How long does it take to walk the Prague beer route?

The walking distance is approximately 2.5 kilometers (1.5 miles). If you stop for a drink at each location, the experience typically takes 2 to 3 hours, though you can easily extend it by staying longer at historic sites like U Fleků.

Is U Fleků worth visiting?

Yes, U Fleků is worth visiting for its historical significance as one of the world's oldest breweries, dating back to 1499. While it can be touristy, the dark lager and the unique atmosphere of its eight themed halls are central to Prague's brewing history.

Can I find craft beer on a walking tour Prague route?

Absolutely. While traditional spots focus on Pilsner, the Prague Beer Museum (the start of this route) offers 30 different taps featuring craft and regional microbreweries from across the Czech Republic.

What is the best time to visit Prague pubs?

The best time is late afternoon, around 4:00 PM or 5:00 PM. This is when the 'stamgasts' (regulars) begin to arrive and the atmosphere becomes lively, but before the peak dinner rush when seating becomes difficult to find.

Is the Prague pub walk accessible for seniors?

The route is flat and covers a relatively short distance in the Old Town, making it suitable for seniors. However, be mindful of the cobblestone streets and the fact that many historic pubs have small steps or tight seating arrangements.

Do I need to book a table at the pubs in Prague?

For smaller groups, you can usually find a spot by sharing a table, which is a common local tradition. However, for legendary spots like U Zlatého tygra, seating is never guaranteed as many tables are permanently reserved for regulars.

What is 'tank' beer in Prague?

Tank beer (tankovna) is unpasteurized beer delivered fresh from the brewery in large temperature-controlled tanks rather than kegs. This results in a fresher taste and more natural carbonation, which you can experience at stops like U Pinkasů and Lokál.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Prague is often called the beer capital of the world, and for good reason. This self-guided walk takes you through the winding alleys of the Old Town and New Town to discover the liquid gold that has fueled Czech culture for centuries. Rather than a standard walking tour Prague experience, this audio-guided route allows you to dive deep into the history of the world's first golden lager—Pilsner Urquell—and the legendary establishments that have served it since the 19th century. You will explore the ritual of the 'hospoda' (the traditional pub), where social status vanishes and the quality of the pour is the only thing that matters. The route begins near the Vltava River, introducing you to the sheer variety of modern Czech brewing before diving into the history of the 14th and 15th centuries. You will visit places where world leaders have shared a pint, where famous writers found their inspiration, and where the very first barrel of Pilsner was tapped in the city back in 1843. This neighborhood stroll captures the essence of Prague's beer culture, from the dark, heavy lagers of the medieval era to the crisp, perfectly carbonated tank beer of today. Along the way, you'll see architectural marvels like the Gothic remains near U Pinkasů and the famous clock of U Fleků. This walking route isn't just about the drink; it is about the stories of the publicans, the brewers, and the locals who have made these pubs their second living rooms. Whether you are a craft beer aficionado or a history buff, this self-guided adventure provides the context often missed by casual visitors. By the time you reach the final stop in the vibrant Dlouhá street, you will understand why the Czech Republic consistently leads the world in beer consumption per capita and how the 'perfect pour' is achieved. **Note:** This area is known for its ever-changing character. Street art, pop-up venues, and temporary exhibitions may differ from what's described. That's part of the adventure - you might discover something entirely new!

Highlights

Visit U Pinkasů, the first place in Prague to serve Pilsner Urquell in 1843

Explore U Fleků, a brewery that has been operating continuously since 1499

See where Bill Clinton and Václav Havel shared a beer at U Zlatého tygra

Learn the secrets of 'tankovna' beer and the art of the Czech pour

Discover the historic Pivovar U Medvídků and its medieval brewing roots

Tour Stops (6)

Prague Beer Museum

Start your journey at the Prague Beer Museum. Despite the name, this isn't a dusty gallery of artifacts, but a vibrant celebration of the Czech Republic's diverse brewing landscape. While the country is famous for Pilsner, this spot showcases the explosion of craft and regional breweries. With 30 beers on tap, it provides a perfect overview of the different styles—from light ležák to dark porters. As you look around, consider that beer here is more than a beverage; it is a social glue. In the Czech Republic, beer is often cheaper than bottled water, reflecting its status as a fundamental part of daily life. This is the perfect place to calibrate your palate before we head into the more historic, single-brewery establishments.

U Zlatého tygra

Welcome to 'At the Golden Tiger,' one of the most famous pubs in Europe. This is a place where time stands still. There are no menus on the walls and no music playing—just the sound of conversation and the clinking of glasses. This was the favorite haunt of the famous Czech writer Bohumil Hrabal, who spent decades at his reserved table here. In 1994, President Václav Havel brought U.S. President Bill Clinton here to show him a 'real' Czech pub. Be aware that getting a seat here is an art form; the tables are often perpetually reserved for 'stamgasts' or regulars. The pub only serves Pilsner Urquell, kept in pristine condition, served with the thick, creamy head that protects the beer's flavor.

Pivovar U Medvídků

U Medvídků, or 'At the Little Bears,' dates back to 1466. Over the centuries, it has transformed from a medieval brewery into a large tavern and even a cabaret. In the 20th century, the brewery was closed under communist nationalization but has since been reborn. Today, it houses a small 'historical' brewery where they produce some of the strongest beer in the world, including the X33, which is fermented in oak barrels. Look up at the architecture; you can see the transition from Gothic foundations to Renaissance and Baroque elements. It represents the resilience of Czech brewing traditions through centuries of political and social change.

Restaurace U Pinkasů

This site is a pilgrimage point for beer lovers. In 1843, a tailor named Jakub Pinkas received a barrel of a new kind of beer from Plzeň—the world's first golden lager. He was so impressed that he quit tailoring and opened this pub. It was the first place in Prague to serve Pilsner Urquell. The pub is spread across several floors and a beautiful 'Gothic garden' situated right against the walls of the Church of Our Lady of the Snows. Notice the specialized beer lifts used to transport mugs between floors. The quality here is legendary because the beer is served from huge tanks rather than small kegs, ensuring maximum freshness and the perfect temperature.

U Fleků

You are standing outside the only brewery in Central Europe that has been brewing beer continuously for over 500 years. Founded in 1499, U Fleků is iconic for its dark 13-degree lager, which is the only beer they serve. The building itself is a sprawling complex of eight distinct halls, each with its own history, like the 'Academy' where 19th-century intellectuals met. Look for the famous clock on the exterior and the ornate interior woodwork. While it is popular with visitors, the history of the place is undeniable. You might hear an accordion player wandering between tables, a tradition that adds to the boisterous, old-world atmosphere of this Prague institution.

Lokál Dlouhááá

To conclude our route, we move to the modern era at Lokál. While it looks like a retro-communist canteen with its long wooden tables and wood-paneled walls, Lokál is actually a modern movement dedicated to perfect beer quality and traditional Czech cuisine. The 'Dlouhááá' in the name refers to the incredible length of the corridor. Here, the beer comes directly from stainless steel tanks visible behind the bar. Observe the 'tapsters'—in the Czech Republic, the person pouring the beer is as important as the person brewing it. They can pour your beer in different styles: 'Hladinka' (standard), 'Šnyt' (a small beer in a large glass), or 'Mlíko' (a glass of sweet beer foam). It is the perfect place to see how the next generation is keeping the pub culture alive.

Frequently Asked Questions

A self-guided walk through the Old Town is the best way to experience beer culture. This route covers iconic spots like U Pinkasů and U Fleků, allowing you to learn the history of Pilsner at your own pace without being tied to a group schedule.