Best Beer in Prague: Where to Drink Like a Local

Prague isn’t just a city of fairy-tale spires and cobblestone streets that look like an iconic Christmas scene each winter. Prague is also a city that was built on the locals’ love of all things beer.

The Czech Republic proudly holds the title of the highest beer consumption per capita in the world. Their capital, Prague, is the beating heart of this brewing tradition. From centuries-old pubs pouring perfect Pilsners to hip craft beer bars tucked away on side streets, there are plenty of ways to heft a refreshing pint on a Prague food tour.

A Quick Intro to Czech Beer Culture

Beer in the Czech Republic isn’t just a drink; it’s a cornerstone of the culture, and Prague has a brewing tradition dating back centuries. Here, drinking beer is about more than refreshment; it’s a social ritual.

The country is the birthplace of the world-famous Pilsner, which is a golden lager first brewed in the city of Plzeň in 1842. It’s known for its crisp flavor and signature hoppy bite. Iconic names like Pilsner Urquell, Budvar, and Staropramen dominate taps.

Alongside the classic pale lager, you’ll find smooth Czech dark beers like černé pivo, with malty, caramel notes. Tons of local breweries also have their own regional specialties unique to each town or brewery.

When ordering in pubs and beer halls, the common move is to order a half-litre. Respect the creamy head of foam, which is a sign of quality. Then always clink glasses with a hearty “Na zdraví!” before taking your first sip.

Iconic Czech Beers to Try

While Pilsner is a must-try beer when visiting Prague, the Czech capital also has some great iconic beers that deserve a taste or two.

Pilsner Urquell

Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons licensed under CC0 1.0 Universal (no changes made)

The original pilsner, created in Pilsen in the mid-19th century, is the iconic beer of the Czech Republic. It’s a crisp, golden lager that revolutionized modern brewing. It’s defined by a clean bitterness, full body, and nutty finish that’s as refined as it is refreshing

While you can find pilsner everywhere, I think the most authentic taste of this beer can be found in U Pinkasu in Prague’s Old Town.

U Fleků Světlý

Brewed on-site since 1499, U Fleků offers is a hoppy, full-bodied pale lager with 5% ABV. For a relatively strong beer, it’s known for mellow malt sweetness and a smooth finish. If you want to taste it in its birthplace, head to U Fleků Pub in New Town. It’s a historic brewery-restaurant with rustic interiors and live music.

Bernard Light Lager

Photo credit: Megan Eaves licensed under CC0 1.0 Universal (no changes made)

From the family-run Bernard Brewery, established in 1597, this unpasteurized lager delivers balanced malt, subtle bitterness, and a crisp finish. I enjoy the style they serve at Bernard Pub in Žižkov, where the cozy interior and friendly vibe complement the beer, and it’s easy to spend a relaxed evening there.

Velkopopovický Kozel

Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons licensed under Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported (no changes made)

While it’s not originally from Prague, Kozel is brewed nearby and beloved for its approachable flavor. There are two different versions to try. The dark Kozel has complex caramel notes and low bitterness. Whereas the light Kozel is easy drinking and tastes a bit like a more complex lager. I recommend U Černého Vola, which is near Prague Castle, that exudes old world vibes and remains proudly true to Czech tradition.

Staropramen Lager

Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons licensed under CC0 1.0 Universal (no changes made)

Proudly brewed in Prague’s Smíchov district since 1869, this lager is smooth and slightly sweet. I appreciate the mild hoppy character, which gives it widespread appeal amongst Prague’s locals. It’s especially refreshing when ordered cold from places like Lokal Dlouhááá,

Best Beer Pubs and Breweries in Prague

Prague is loaded with breweries, pubs, modern bars, beer gardens, and taprooms selling the best traditional Czech beers and craft-brewed beverages. Many of which have menus rich with authentic Czech food to take the experience to the next level.

U Fleků

This legendary brewery has been crafting beer since 1499, making it one of the oldest in Prague. I love the rustic yet lively ambiance, with long wooden tables, dark wood interiors, and accordion players adding to the authentic atmosphere.

Their signature beer is the house-brewed 13° dark lager, which goes down smooth with caramel notes. It’s a traditional Czech beer hall experience, complete with frothy mugs and communal seating.

U Fleků (Kč 200–400) – Křemencova 11, 110 00 Nové Město, Czechia.

U Zlatého Tygra

Photo credit: U Zlatého Tygra

Loosely translated as “The Golden Tiger,” this is a no-frills, standing-room-style pub in Prague’s Old Town. U Zlatého Tygra is famous for its perfectly poured Pilsner Urquell, which is drawn straight from stainless steel tanks.

The ambiance has an old-world feel. Also, don’t be surprised when your beer comes with a big head of creamy foam.

U Zlatého Tygra (Kč 200–400) – Husova 228/17 Staré Město Praha 1 Praha 1, 110 00 Praha 1, Czechia.

Lokál Dlouhááá

Photo credit: Lokál Dlouhááá

Part of the Lokál chain, this long, bright beer hall in Old Town blends a casual atmosphere with top-quality tank beer. The interior is modern yet nostalgic, with retro Czech design and lively chatter.

They specialize in tank Pilsner Urquell, which is served unpasteurized for extra freshness. This gives the beer an exceptional head, which they emphasize with unique pouring methods.

Lokál Dlouhááá (Kč 200–400) – Dlouhá 33, 110 00 Staré Město, Czechia.

Craft Beer in Prague: The Modern Wave

Prague is also celebrated as a home to modern microbreweries and craft breweries.

Dva Kohouti

Photo credit: Dva Kohouti

Located in the hip Karlín district, Dva Kohouti is a modern microbrewery co-founded by renowned Czech brewer Adam Matuška. It has an industrial-chic atmosphere that draws a vibrant, youthful crowd.

Their refreshing lineup includes a series of house-made craft beers alongside Matuška’s famous IPAs and lagers. I appreciate how you can watch the brewing process while enjoying a freshly tapped pint.

Dva Kohouti (Kč 250–500) – Sokolovská 81/55, 186 00 Praha 8-Karlín, Czechia.

BeerGeek Bar

Photo credit: BeerGeek Bar

For craft beer lovers, BeerGeek in Vinohrady is a modern taproom with over 30 rotating taps featuring Czech and international brews. The interior is casual, with a sporty yet hip vibe. Their selection ranges from IPAs to stouts, and they often host tap takeovers from local microbreweries.

BeerGeek Bar (Kč 200–400) – Vinohradská 988/62, 130 00 Praha 3-Vinohrady, Czechia.

Final Thoughts: Prague Is Best Enjoyed One Pint at a Time

In Prague, beer isn’t just a beverage. It’s an integral part of the city’s culture, history, and daily rhythm. You’ll find centuries-old pubs where Pilsner flows like water to modern microbreweries crafting bold new flavors.

So, I say skip the overpriced tourist bars and wander into the places where locals gather, where beer is still tapped by hand and poured with care. Raise your glass, say “Na zdraví!” as you wash down the flavors of the Czech Republic on your Prague food tour.