10 Top Things to Do on a Pilsen Brewery Tour from Prague
Are you looking for the ultimate Czech beer experience? A Pilsen brewery tour from Prague is the perfect choice. Pilsen is the birthplace of the world-famous Pilsner Urquell lager. This city is only a short distance from the capital. It offers a rich history and amazing flavors. You can easily see the best sights in just one day.
Many travelers choose this trip to see where modern beer began. The journey is simple and very affordable. You will find more than just breweries in this historic city. There are stunning cathedrals and deep underground tunnels to explore. This guide will help you plan every detail of your visit.
Before you go, check out other best day trips from Prague to fill your schedule. Pilsen remains a top pick for many for good reason. It combines tradition with a fun, modern atmosphere. Let's look at the top experiences you cannot miss in 2026.
Why Book a Pilsen Brewery Tour from Prague?
Pilsen is a world-class destination for anyone who enjoys history and culture. It is located about 90 kilometers west of the capital city. Taking a Pilsen brewery tour from Prague allows you to see the real Czech Republic. You will escape the heavy crowds of the Prague city center. The atmosphere here is authentic and very welcoming.
The city is famous for creating the first golden lager in 1842. This changed the beer industry forever across the entire globe. Most beers you drink today are based on this original recipe. Seeing the process in person is a unique opportunity. You can taste the beer directly from oak barrels in the cellars.
Getting there is quite easy for most travelers. You can take a fast train or a comfortable bus. Many people prefer the best day trips from Prague by train for the scenic views. The ride takes about 90 minutes through the green Czech countryside. It is a relaxing way to start your day of exploration.
10 Best Things to Do on a Pilsen Brewery Tour
Here are the top experiences to include in your itinerary. These spots cover history, views, and the best local flavors. Make sure to check opening times before you arrive.
- Name: Pilsner Urquell Brewery Type: Sight/Experience Why go: This is the most famous brewery in the world. You see the modern bottling plant and historic cellars. Best for: Everyone visiting Pilsen. Where: U Prazdroje 7. Time: 2 hours. Cost: 350-450 CZK. Getting there: 10-minute walk from the main train station. Tip: Book your English tour online at least two days early.
- Name: Pilsen Historical Underground Type: Activity Why go: Explore a 14th-century labyrinth of tunnels under the city streets. It is cool even in the hot summer. Best for: Adventure seekers and history buffs. Where: Veleslavínova 6. Time: 1 hour. Cost: 150-200 CZK. Getting there: Located in the city center near the square. Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and a light jacket as it is chilly.
- Name: The Brewery Museum Type: Museum Why go: It is housed in an original medieval brewing house. You learn about beer making from ancient times to today. Best for: Rainy days and history lovers. Where: Veleslavínova 6. Time: 1 hour. Cost: 100-150 CZK. Getting there: Right next to the Underground entrance. Tip: Buy a combined ticket for the museum and underground to save money.
- Name: St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral Type: Viewpoint Why go: It has the highest church tower in the Czech Republic. The views of the city are incredible. Best for: Photographers and active travelers. Where: Republic Square. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: 50-100 CZK for the tower. Getting there: In the very heart of the city. Tip: Be prepared to climb over 300 steps to reach the top.
- Name: Purkmistr Beer Spa Type: Experience Why go: Relax in a wooden tub filled with beer ingredients. It is a unique way to pamper yourself. Best for: Couples and relaxation. Where: Selská náves 2. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: 1,000-1,500 CZK. Getting there: Take a short taxi or local bus from the center. Tip: This is a popular spot, so reserve your tub weeks in advance.
- Name: Great Synagogue Type: Sight Why go: This is the second-largest synagogue in Europe. The architecture is stunning and very colorful. Best for: Culture and architecture fans. Where: Sady Pětatřicátníků. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: 100-150 CZK. Getting there: A short walk from the main square. Tip: Check the Visit Czechia site for special concert dates here.
- Name: Republic Square (Náměstí Republiky) Type: Neighborhood/Market Why go: It is one of the largest medieval squares in Europe. It often hosts seasonal markets and festivals. Best for: People watching and local food. Where: City Center. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Central hub of the city. Tip: Look for the three modern golden fountains representing city symbols.
- Name: Patton Memorial Pilsen Type: Museum Why go: Learn about the liberation of Pilsen by the US Army in 1945. It is a moving historical site. Best for: History enthusiasts. Where: Pobřežní 10. Time: 1 hour. Cost: 100 CZK. Getting there: Near the Peklo Cultural House. Tip: The museum is small but packed with authentic artifacts.
- Name: Gambrinus Brewery Tour Type: Experience Why go: Learn about the most popular everyday beer in the Czech Republic. It is part of the same complex as Urquell. Best for: Beer fans who want a second perspective. Where: U Prazdroje. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: 300 CZK. Getting there: Same entrance as Pilsner Urquell. Tip: This tour is more focused on modern brewing techniques.
- Name: Velké Popovice Brewery Type: Day Trip Why go: If you love dark beer, this is the place for Kozel. It is located between Prague and Pilsen. Best for: Fans of Kozel beer and cute goats. Where: Velké Popovice. Time: 2 hours. Cost: 250-350 CZK. Getting there: Best reached by car or organized tour from Prague. Tip: Meet the brewery's mascot, a real goat named Olda.
How to Organize Your Pilsen Brewery Tour
Planning your trip is simple if you know the basics. Most people start their journey at the Prague Main Railway Station. Trains run every hour and are very reliable. You can buy tickets at the station or through a mobile app. This is a great choice for winter day trips from Prague because the trains are warm.
Buses are another good option for travelers. They often depart from the Florenc station in Prague. The bus is usually slightly cheaper than the train. However, the train offers more space to move around. Both options take about the same amount of time to reach Pilsen.
If you prefer a guided experience, many companies offer group tours. These often include transport and all entrance fees. This takes the stress out of navigating a new city. You will also have a guide to explain the history in detail. This is perfect if you only have one day to see everything.
Essential Travel Tips for Your Brewery Trip
When you go on a Pilsen brewery tour from Prague, keep a few things in mind. Czech beer is strong, so drink plenty of water. Most brewery tours include a tasting at the end. You should eat a hearty meal before you start. Local restaurants in Pilsen serve excellent traditional food like goulash.
Prices in Pilsen are usually lower than in Prague. This makes it a great place to buy souvenirs. You can find unique beer-themed gifts at the brewery shop. Credit cards are accepted in most large places. However, it is good to have some Czech Koruna for smaller shops.
The city is very walkable and safe for tourists. You can see most major sights on foot from the square. If you want to see more of the region, consider other trips. You might enjoy a Karlovy Vary spa day trip for more relaxation. Pilsen is a fantastic addition to any Czech Republic itinerary.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a Pilsen brewery tour from Prague take?
A full day trip usually takes 8 to 10 hours. The travel time is about 3 hours round trip. The main brewery tour lasts 2 hours. This leaves plenty of time for lunch and seeing other city sights like the cathedral or the historical underground tunnels.
Is it better to go to Pilsen by train or bus?
The train is generally the best option for most travelers. It is comfortable and offers beautiful views of the countryside. Trains depart every hour from Prague's main station. Buses are also available and can be slightly cheaper, but they offer less flexibility and legroom during the ride.
Do I need to book the Pilsner Urquell tour in advance?
Yes, booking in advance is highly recommended. English-language tours are very popular and often sell out days before. You can easily book tickets on the official brewery website. This ensures you get the time slot that fits your travel schedule from Prague perfectly.
A Pilsen brewery tour from Prague is a highlight of any Czech vacation. You get to see the home of lager and enjoy a beautiful historic city. Whether you love beer or history, Pilsen has something special for you. It is an easy and rewarding day trip that fits any budget. Start planning your visit today to experience the best of Czech culture.
If you want to explore more of the country, check out our Cesky Krumlov day trip guide. There are so many amazing places to see just outside of Prague. Enjoy your travels and cheers to a great trip!
Official resources
Use these sources for official schedules, tickets, routes, and updates.
- Prague.eu — Official city tourism portal; unverified.
- Praha.eu — Official municipal government portal; unverified.
- Visit Czechia — National tourism board; unverified.
- UNESCO World Heritage Centre — Official UNESCO heritage listing; unverified.
- Prague Castle — Official landmark domain; unverified.
- National Museum — Major national museum; unverified.
