What beer in Prague is truly Czech

What you should know about Czech beer

Did you know that the Czech Republic is one of the top three hop-growing countries in the world, alongside Germany and the USA? Hops are cultivated on over 5,000 hectares of land here—that’s over 7,000 football fields combined!

The most famous variety of Czech hops is Žatecký poloraný červeňák, renowned for its delicate flavor and aroma. Other notable varieties include Kazbek and Agnus.

Since 2008, the “Czech Beer” designation has been a registered EU trademark. To qualify, breweries must use local water, hops, and malt, and the beer must be brewed entirely in the Czech Republic.

Here are some breweries that produce authentic Czech beer:

• Bernard
• Budweiser Budvar
• Pilsner Urquell
• Primátor
• Černá hora
• Zubr

Which beer should you try? A guide to beer types 

Beer can be broadly divided into two categories: bottom-fermented and top-fermented. Here’s what you need to know about each:

• Bottom-Fermented Beers
  These beers mature at cooler temperatures (10–12°C) and are made primarily from Central European ingredients. They are aged for over a month in open vats, giving rise to their Czech name, “ležák” (from the word ležet = to lay).
  • Popular styles include light, semi-dark, and dark lagers, as well as specialties like IPL (India Pale Lager).
  • The most famous bottom-fermented beer is Pilsner lager, known for its thick, creamy foam. This style originated in Pilsen, Czechia, and has since gained worldwide popularity.
• Top-Fermented Beers
  These beers mature at warmer temperatures (up to 20°C) and are typically made from English or overseas ingredients. They have a shorter production time and a more pronounced flavor.
  • Examples include IPA (India Pale Ale) and stout (a dark beer with a thick, creamy foam).

Common myths about Czech beer

Myth: A beer labeled “12°” contains 12% alcohol.

Truth: The degree listed on Czech beers refers to the malt extract content, not the alcohol percentage. It indicates the amount of malt-derived substances in the brewing process.

Here’s a quick guide to alcohol content by degree:

The importance of foam in Czech beer

While minimal foam is acceptable in some countries, in the Czech Republic, foam is a key indicator of beer quality.

A properly poured Czech beer should have a thick, creamy, pore-free foam resembling whipped cream. The foam should slowly dissipate and leave rings around the glass as you drink.

Which Czech brewery is the best?

Among tourists, Pilsner Urquell and Budweiser Budvar are the most popular choices.

However, Czech beer experts often recommend these award-winning brews, as recognized by the 2024 Czech Brewers and Maltsters Association competition:

• RADEGAST Ryze Hořká 12 (Best in the main category)
• Primátor 11 Ležák
• ZUBR Gold
• Bernard Český Ležák 12
• Birell (non-alcoholic)

How much does beer cost in Prague?

Prague is the most expensive place to enjoy beer in the Czech Republic. While a draft beer typically costs around 59 CZK (approximately 2.35 EUR) elsewhere, you can expect to pay about 71 CZK (2.83 EUR) for a half-liter in the capital.

Tip: Beware of scams in certain restaurants, especially those advertising fake draft beer. For advice on avoiding these pitfalls, check out videos by Honest Guide.

Where to find great beer in Prague

For a true Czech beer experience, don’t just stick to the famous brands. Explore Prague’s growing microbrewery scene, which offers unique flavors and often includes brewery tours.

Here are some of our top recommendations:

• Pivovar Moucha
• Vinohradský Pivovar
• Dva Kohouti
• Pivovar Chroust
• Pivovar U Fleků
• Andělský Pivovar
• Beznoska Microbrewery
• Pivovar Matuška

Try beer beyond Prague: Explore more from Czechia with Northern Hikes

While Prague offers a wealth of beer experiences, why not venture further afield? Explore Czech nature and enjoy authentic beer in a tranquil setting, like the stunning Bohemian Switzerland National Park. Check out where to go for the best local beer.