Many people passionate about beer believe the Czech Republic is one of the best countries in the world for beer tourism. Here are just a few reasons why.
Brewing Tradition
The Czech Republic has a rich history and deep-rooted tradition in brewing beer. In fact, historians uncovered evidence of a brewery being established in the year 933 (almost 1,500 years ago) at Břevnov Monastery in Prague, which still has a brewery to this day.
Pilsner Beer
The Czech Republic is renowned for creating the Pilsner style of beer. Pilsner Urquell, brewed in the city of Plzeň (Pilsen), is considered the archetype of the pilsner style. This beer has influenced the brewing of beers globally and, according to TasteAtlas.com, is now the #2 most popular style of beer in the world.
Variety and Quality
Czech beer culture is diverse, offering various styles beyond pilsners, such as dark lagers (tmavé pivo), wheat beers (psenicne pivo), and more. The country also boasts a wide range of breweries, from large-scale producers to smaller craft breweries, ensuring a vast selection of high-quality beers for tourists to explore.
Beer Culture and Hospitality
The Czech Republic has a vibrant beer culture deeply ingrained in its society. Pubs and beer halls are plentiful, offering a cozy and inviting atmosphere for locals and tourists alike to enjoy a pint of fresh, flavorful beer. In fact, the Czech Republic is the top consumer of beer per capita in the world.
Affordability
Beer in the Czech Republic is relatively affordable compared to many other countries. A decade ago the country's health minister proposed a law requiring pubs and restaurants to offer at least one non-alcoholic drink on the menu priced lower than beer. That proposal failed and beer is still very reasonably priced in the country.
Accessibility
If you want to talk beer tourism, it is important to include locations outside Prague. The Czech Republic is not a large country and thus distances to key points of interest are reasonable. From Prague it is only 1.5 hours drive to Plzeň, home of Pilsner Urquell, or one hour 45 minutes drive to České Budějovice, home of the original Budvar.
For the beer tourist - someone traveling to a destination for the beer or at least incorporating beer and breweries into her travels - the Czech Republic is, indeed, one of the top destinations in the world.
Author Allan Wright is the founder and owner of Taste Vacations, which offers beer, wine, and food tours around the world. His company offers a seven-day beer tour in the Czech Republic.