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Amateur Traveler

Budweiser Budvar Brewery Tour – České Budějovice, Czech Republic

budvar tour prague

If you love beer and are in the Czech Republic, you should tour the “original” Budweiser Brewery.

Budweiser Budvar Brewery

The Budweiser Budvar Brewery itself is 123 years old. It brewed its first batch on October 7th, 1895 under the name “Czech Joint-Stock Brewery”. The brewery has gone through many changes in those years, notably:

  • A series of lawsuits with an American company that decided that Budweiser was a pretty good name for beer and registered the trademark for it.
  • The brewery was nationalized in 1948 at the end of WWII and the start of the communist period and is the only brewery in the Czech Republic that is still owned by the government, giving it the best claim at being Czech beer.
  • Last year (2017) the beer from Budweiser Budvar became the most exported beer in history. They exported 99,050,800 liters of beer to 76 countries. The brewery has not licensed their name so all of that beer is produced at the one brewery in České Budějovice.

Beer Making in České Budějovice (German: Budweis)

The King of Bohemia granted a town charter to České Budějovice in 1265 and with that charter gave the townspeople certain rights, among them, was the right to brew beer. So they have been at this beer business for quite some time in the region.

At one point the city was made the imperial brewers for the Holy Roman Empire. So while the American Budweiser may claim to be the “King of Beers”, České Budějovice has been making the beer of kings.

Budweiser Budvar Brewery Tour - České Budějovice, Czech Republic #czech #czech-republic #beer #travel

The Beer That Started 10,000 Years Ago

The ingredients for the beers produced at the brewery are all locally sourced, with the hops coming from a town near Prague and the barley also from Czech fields. Hops growers are particularly lucky, on a long day in the Czech summer hops vines can grow as much as 12 inches. But it is the water for the beer that is more unusual. The brewery has artesian wells that are drilled around 300 meters or 1000 feet down into an aquifer that has trapped water from the last ice age. When you drink their beer, you are drinking snow and rain that fell on the Earth 10,000 years ago. This makes the water unusually pure.

The Trademark Fight

Adolphus Busch was a German immigrant to the United States who decided he liked both the name Budweiser as well as the Bohemian beer-making process. He opened his brewery in 1876. At the time there was more than one brewery in České Budějovice using the German name of the city Budweiss to brand their beer Budweiser, although Budweiser Budvar itself had not yet opened.

Budweiser Budvar and Anheuser-Busch have been arguing about the trademark in over 100 court cases around the world since 1907. In general Budweiser Budvar has the rights to the name Budweiser in Europe, so the American beer goes by Bud in Europe. But Anheuser-Busch has the rights in North American so Budweiser Budvar beer is sold under the name Czechvar in the U.S. Anheuser-Busch acquired the brewery Budweiser Bürgerbräu in 2014 to aid in the trademark fight, so this fight is not over yet.

Budweiser Budvar Brewery Tour

Guided Tours

You can take a guided tour of the brewery on most days at 2 pm. Tours without prior booking are available in Czech, English and German. The tour is an hour long and your tour group will have 5-50 people. A taste of unfiltered beer from the cooling rooms will be included.

The visitor’s center and gift shop are open from 9 am to 5 pm. In January and February, the brewery is closed Sunday and Monday. The visitor’s center also has a multimedia presentation if you don’t have the time or desire to take a tour.

You can also order tours in advance for private groups of 5 or more or groups that need a tour in Russian, French, Spanish, or Italian.

For reservations contact the Budweiser Budvar Visitor Centre: +420 387 705 347 [email protected]

Tour Price 120 CZK 180 CZK outside the opening hours Students and children can tour for half price.

budvar tour prague

The Tour Experience

The appropriate dress for a brewery tour of Budweiser Budvar is in layers. When you visit the brewhouse where the beer is cooking in big copper kettles, it gets quite warm (40°C / 104°F). When you go down to the cooling rooms, it gets quite chilly (5°C / 41°F).

The tour starts at the artesian well, proceeds to the brewhouse, the cylinder-conical tanks, the lager cellar, and the bottling plant before returning to the visitor’s center.

Artesian Wells

While the wells might be the least interesting thing to see on the tour, they are a very important part of the process. For every liter of beer 4 liters of water are used.

Brew house - Budweiser Budvar Brewery

To make beer you first take your barley and malt it. You crush it, soak it and toast it. How long you toast it will influence how dark the resulting beer will be. You then mix this malted barley with the bitter hops and water to create a slurry called hop wort. In the brewhouse, the hop wort is cooked for 10 hours in these beautiful large copper pots. In addition to letting the flavors mix, boiling the beer also sterilizes it.

budvar tour prague

Cylinder-conical Tanks

The hop wort mixture is cooled down in these large tanks.

budvar tour prague

Lagger Cellar

In the cold lagger cellar, the yeast is added and fermentation starts. A new yeast mixture is used every week. The old yeast and solids from the brewing process are sold to local farmers for animal feed. Here the beer will sit from 2 weeks to 7 months fermenting. How long it sits depends on the strength of the beer they are trying to make. Their near beer which has only .5% alcohol only takes 2 weeks. Budweiser Budvar makes 5 beer with 4-7.5% alcohol.

budvar tour prague

The cellar has old signs with sayings like “let’s drink beer while we are alive after death we can’t drink beer”.

The tour will linger here a bit in the cold so that you can try an unfiltered beer from one of the tanks.

budvar tour prague

Bottling Plant

Most of the Budweiser Budvar beer is bottled (60%) while 30% is sold in kegs and only 10% in cans. The tour will visit the bottling plant. If possible, don’t visit on Sunday like we did as the bottling is less likely to be running. The bottling plant has 2 different lines. Each line can bottle 40,000 bottles an hour!

budvar tour prague

This part of the tour is noisy so you may not be able to hear your guide’s explanations but there are signs posted in Czech and English which explain the process.

budvar tour prague

České Budějovice

If you do visit the Budweiser Budvar brewery, don’t do what many people do which is just make it a day trip from Prague. The region is worth some further attention.

budvar tour prague

Private tour to Český Krumlov with a Guided tour at the Budweiser brewery

budvar tour prague

The town of České Budějovice has a beautiful central square which is not filled with tourists. It has parks along its river banks and bike paths that connect to 5000km of biked paths in Southern Bohemia and to long-distance European bike routes. How else can one burn off the calories from all that beer?

In the summer the city hosts a series of concerts in the park as well as films at an outdoor movie venue (in Czech or English). Their hockey team draws some of the biggest crowds in their league.

Pivovar Hluboká

While Budweiser Budvar is making beer in the traditional fashion the region also boasts microbreweries doing more experimentation with beer. For instance, the brewery in Hluboká, Pivovar Hluboká, makes 14 different beers including more American style IPAs. Obviously they are making beer in much smaller quantities that Budweiser Budvar.

Hluboká Castle

Hluboká Castle

While you are in Hluboká, take the time also to visit the beautiful Hluboká castle.

Places to stay

We stayed in the Hotel Budweis which was a lovely small hotel along the banks of the river.

Svícková

Places to Eat

I can recommend the following restaurants for traditional Czech food:

  • Klika Kitchen & Coffee in the hotel across the street from Hotel Budweis has a great menu that featured my favorite Svícková which I had in a week in the Czech Republic, with tender meat and delicious, if overly generous, dumplings. My traveling companions also enjoyed the trout and a selection of soups, salads, and open-faced Czech sandwiches. I wish I had had one less dumpling and had tried the fresh pie.
  • The Masné krámy restaurant just off the main square was also good.
  • Our local tourism board contacts also recommended the restaurant Modré Dvere (Blue Door) near the town square.

The brewery at Budweiser Budvar Brewery at České Budějovice is building on a long heritage. The history of the beer they make is either 123 years, 750 years or 10,000 years in the making… depending on how you count. If you are in the area and a Beer lover, you should take this brewery tour.

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budvar tour prague

by Chris Christensen

+Chris Christensen | @chris2x | facebook

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Tags: article , beer , ceske budejovice , czech republic

Chris Christensen

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How to do the Budweiser Budvar Brewery Tour: All you wanted to know

Shang & Keith

  • May 8, 2023
  • Destinations , Europe

How to do the Budweiser Budvar Brewery Tour: All you need to know here

Budvar brewery Ceske budejovice

We knew that the Czech Republic is famous for their beer, and one of the oldest breweries is in Ceske Budejovice. 

So that’s a pretty convenient reason to pay a visit to the capital of South Bohemia don’t you think?

During our visit to Ceske Budejovice , we had a great time and one of the highlights has to be one of the Budweiser Brewery tours.

What? Budweiser? That’s right, we did not type that wrongly nor did you see the wrong words. 

But here we are not talking about the one in America. We are talking about the original Budweiser beer.

No trip to Czech Republic would be complete without a visit to a brewery, and in this article, we are going to talk more about the original Budweiser Beer and a visit to its brewery in Ceske Budejovice. 

Read on if you want to know what’s the tour about and our review!

budvar tour prague

What's covered in this post

Some history about Budweiser beer first

How to get to the budvar brewery, prices and opening hours, what is the tour about, should you attend the budvar tour, logistics before visiting ceske budejovice.

Before going into the details of the tour, lets cover a bit of the history and the background of Budweiser beer.

You see, back in the days (in 1265) when King Ottokar II was in charge, he granted a brewing permit to the city to be an official brewer. 

It then grew exponentially and become an important exporter of beer, at one point even to the Holy Roman Empire. 

The name Budweiser then came about to distinguish itself from other regions, which means ‘beer from Budweis’. 

So let’s take a moment to appreciate King Ottokar II who gave us Budweiser Budvar beer. 

Following its tremendous success, the small breweries came together to and a company was formed in 1895 and named The Czech Joint Stock Brewery. 

During a period of nationalisation, the company became state owned and remains so till today. 

Despite offers to buy over the business, they have remained staunch in keeping this to themselves and insisting on producing beer only with materials from Czech Republic.

Controversy

Obviously we may not be privy to the full details of what’s happened, but we do know that the Czechs started shipping beer to America in 1872. 

Shortly after, the American Carl Conrad chose the Anheuser Busch brewery to replicate the Budweiser beer, and applied for a trademark with the American Patent Office. 

Apparently, this was not authorised and actually became the point of disputes, continuing on today, over the use of this name.

So today, you will find the Czech beer selling in America as Czechvar beer, but as Budweiser in most parts of Europe. 

On the other hand, the American version markets itself simply as Bud in Europe. 

As beer lovers, we can only comment that we are happy with the Czech version, which still uses ingredients entirely sourced from within the country. 

Budvar is currently the second biggest producer of beer in the Czech Republic, behind the number one guy Pilsner Urquell.

Budvar Brewery entrance

While most of the main sights of Ceske Budejovice is situated in or around the Old Town, the Budweiser Budvar Brewery is not, for obvious reasons. 

Instead, it is located about 15 minutes bus ride north of the old town, in an industrial area. 

To get there, you can get yourself a taxi, which is probably the most straightforward method, but you can also consider taking the bus. 

From outside the main bus station of Ceske Budejovice at Mercury Mall, take the bus service number 5 and transfer to bus service number 2 outside of IGY mall. 

Alternatively, you can choose to simply take bus service number 2 from outside the post office near the old town. 

Total journey time should not exceed 20 minutes and the cost is 16 CZK if purchased from the machine, or 25 CZK if purchased from the bus driver. 

One website we like to use while travelling in Czech Republic is IDOS , so you should check that out too. 

The brewery is open all year round, with fixed timings for the brewery tours. 

Budweiser tour price is 150 CZK per adult.

Read on for more information of the Budweiser Brewery tour times.

In the summer months of July and August, there are 2 tours scheduled daily, and you can simply show up for either the 11am or 2pm tour. 

But since it is the peak season, we advice you to show up early to secure a place on the tour. 

From September to June, there is 1 tour conducted daily at 2pm. 

And in January to February, the time slot is also at 2pm, but does not operate on Sundays. 

If for any reason you are not able to visit at the designated time slots, the brewery does conduct tours for a minimum of 5 persons. 

Prices are 200 CZK per adult. 

All regular tours are available in English, Czech, German, while non regular tours can be arranged for Spanish, French, Italian and Russian languages.

More information is found on Budějovický Budvar website.

The duration of the guided tour is 60 minutes, and during this time, a guide will lead the tour group from the main reception area of the brewery all the way into the brewing rooms and storing facilities and even a walk through the bottling area.

First stop after leaving the reception area is a short explanation about the plant’s artesian wells. 

What artesian wells mean is that the water from the ground, in this case over 300 metres deep, comes to the surface naturally, without a need for a pump.  

Over here at this site, the waters are pumped from an underground lake into the plant’s storage tanks, which will be used for the beer production.

Mind you, the water is over thousands of years old, dating back to the Ice Age, and they are so pure that it does not need any filtering. 

And since this well is unique and only found here, there is no way to have another brewery anywhere else in the world. Another plus point for originality!

water well budvar brewery tour

Next stop brings us to the entrance of the main building. On the short walk there, we pass by the warehouse area where you can see millions of bottles being pushed into their respective stations. 

At the entrance, the guide stops and talks us through the brewing process. For those interested, here is the flow chart that gives you an overview.

budvar brewing process

Following the short briefing of the brewing process, as well as an idea of what to expect inside, in we go.

We first climb up 4 flights of stairs (or may 5?) to reach a viewing platform of the copper mash tuns where the process of brewing begins. 

Malt from Moravia and Czech hops are mixed together with water and wort is formed. Yeast is then added in to start the fermentation process crucial for all beers, and this is when the mixture is transferred out to fermentation tanks. 

These copper mash are huge and looks very impressive. We were told that the cleaning of these mashes were done manually and takes over 3 hours to finish cleaning one!

copper mash tuns budvar brewery tour

Following this, we proceeded to descend into the basement cellars where the finished product is stored. 

Visitors should take note that temperatures here can get pretty chilly, down to the single digits, so it would be wise to have a jacket along. You will need to spend approximately 15 minutes here. 

Entering the large storage room, we were greeted by some staff of the brewery, and our guide proceeds to explain some of the ingredients used. 

What was really interesting is the fact that Budvar sticks to an old German law known as Reinheitsgebot, which loosely translates to German Beer Purity Law. 

This means that beer from Germany or the Old Roman Empire can only contain water, hops and barley. In Budvar’s case, they do have an exception which is yeast, but you can be sure no other ingredients such as preservatives are added.

Very soon, loud cheers are heard as one of the staff steps forward and offers us freshly brewed beer, poured right out of the tanks. Very light and crisp, delicious! Beer tasting at its best!

budvar beer brewery guide

With the tasting session over, we next move to another part of the building. 

Along the bridge connecting two buildings, you can peep out and watch the staff going about their business. 

And if you pay attention, you can still see a train track where the original train was used to transport the beer. It is still being used today. Super cool! 

budvar tour prague

We now get the chance to walk through the bottling facility. Be aware that it gets pretty loud in here but otherwise the whole section is safe for everyone.

The crew that runs this section is in for a tough assignment, as Budvar produces 400 million bottles per year! 

The company pays attention to sustainability too, as bottles are collected from all over the country to be reused, and they are treated with a sodium and high heat wash. 

bottling facility budvar brewery tour

After our walk through the bottling plant, we had time for a short chat with our guide, and was glad to learn about the history of this place. 

We could tell that the staff here are passionate and proud of their tradition, and hopefully there will be a positive conclusion of their ongoing case with Budweiser.

As we get ready to walk back to the main entrance, we had one last chance to catch a glimpse of the offices and some cool displays being placed around the block.

Heading to Prague or Cesky Krumlov ? Click on the links to check out our posts!

What to read next? Check out these popular posts! 

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Copper Mash Tun exhibit Budvar Brewery

Yes, absolutely! Our experience was great.

It was a real eye opener to be part of this tour, and we appreciated the effort to let guests go as far in as possible to the critical parts of the Budweiser brewery, giving it an authentic feel. 

The guide was friendly and informative and really made the whole tour complete. 

So yes, please take the time to come if you are in the Southern Bohemian region or maybe just next door Cesky Krumlov, and try out some Budvar beer.

Before leaving the premises, there is a souvenir shop available to buy some unique gifts, or you can walk around the wonderfully curated Budweiser museum area, which really gives you a better understanding of what went on since the 12th century.

Don’t forget to watch the cheesy movie which was shown in a mini cinema near the exit, it is so funny! 

Budvar vs United States Budweiser. No prizes for guessing who won!

Next door, you will find its restaurant, Budvarka, which is really excellent not just for the beer, make sure you try out the food!

Find cheap flights. Air tickets are usually the bulk of your expenses. Set up an alert and snag cheap fares with Skyscanner .

Find the best accommodation. Book a place ahead of time to get good rates. Booking.com has transparent fees and excellent rates. 

Handy travel guide. For the old school kid in you, get a travel guide book and get lost exploring the city.

Photos. Your mobile phone can do a pretty good job, but if you need an upgrade, we recommend the Sony A6000 (US) (International)

Travel insurance. You don’t need us to teach you to be a responsible adult, do you? Get a quote here.

Planned for you activities in Ceske Budejovice. Need a guide to show you and your group around? Lots of operators here to choose from here. You know who they are and how they are reviewed. 

More resources to help you. All other useful travel resources we use when we book our trips.

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Budvar 33

Budweiser Budvar Original

Budvar Nealko

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Non-alcoholic beer

Budvar Dark Lager

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Budvar Výčepní

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budvar tour prague

Strong pale beer

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To do in Prague

The Best Beer Breweries in Prague

Top breweries in prague prague's best breweries, list of the most authentic breweries in prague with great tasting czech beers..

The Czech Republic in general and also Prague itself is very famous for its high quality beer. There are giant beer brands like Pilsner Urquell, Staropramen and Budweiser Budvar, but there are also less known ones like local microbreweries Pivovar Národní or Loď Pivovar.

If you want to enjoy the best beer like a local and also with the locals, you are welcome to check out our list of breweries in Prague where we show you historical breweries, famous breweries, and also the ones lesser known. But the one thing they all share in common is the well refined beer making process with the end produce of excellent draft beer. If you’re looking to take a brewery tour while you’re visiting us in Prague, then check out this walking beer tasting tour or a day brewery tour outside of Prague where you can enjoy a scenic ride along with visits to several famous breweries.

Walking Beer Tour Prague

Brewery tour from prague, top beer pubs in prague, best beer gardens.

U Fleků Pub and Brewery

This beautiful old pub is dating to 1499. U Fleků brewery and restaurant  is known for its fascinating history as well as for very good beer and local folkloric music. The beer has been produced at U Fleků for more than 500 year. Yes, it all sounds great and due to that reason this brewery is extremely busy and it is definitely recommended to make a reservation. Even though there are eight beer halls and also a  beer garden it can still easily fill up with large family gathers and tourist groups, so places are limited. U Fleků brewery prepares fresh beer every week. The famous Flekovský ležák 13° is a strong, heavy dark lager with a very nice, smooth taste. We recommend complementing it with a delicious traditional Czech meal which are served here. If you come during the day, you can also visit their own beer museum or enjoy a brewery tour and buy some of their commemorative beer souvenirs.

Contact: Křemencova 11, 110 00 Nové Město, Praha 1 https://en.ufleku.cz/

Strahov Monastery Brewery

In Czech it is called Klašterní Pivovar Strahov, and you guessed it – it is located in a former monastery located just a few minutes walk from the Prague castle. This beautiful historical brewery is also a restaurant  with a courtyard beer garden. The service and meals here are also top-notch which is reflected in the price, although it is well worth it for the quality and atmosphere.

This historical microbrewery is definitely one of the best ones in Prague and it is also considering an incredible experience for any visitors to Prague. The beers produces here nowadays follow a modern trend more than traditional Czech lager recipies. The style of beers goes more towards the German types of wheat beers, IPA beers and also variety of rich dark beers.  Considering that monks were some of the world’s earliest and best beer brewers, you will definitely not make a bad choice by visiting this Monastery brewery above the Prague Castle.

Contact:   Strahovské nádvoří 301, 118 00 Praha 1 https://www.klasterni-pivovar.cz/

Staropramen Brewery in Prague

The second largest brewery within the Czech Republic is found in Prague 5’s neighborhood of Smíchov, just on the banks of the Vltava River. Originally established in 1869, this traditional brewery totes itself as the brewery of the people. It’s neighborhood was once the industrial center of the city and there is still evidence from the many large factory buildings that surround it.The brewery has owns and operates a chain of Staropramen restaurants found throughout the country, under the name of Potrefená Husa. The one located at the brewery itself is Potrefená Husa Na Verandách (The Wounded Goose on the Porch).

If you are looking to have a more authentic experience with less crowds than you might find in the Strahov or U Fleků breweries, then head on over the Staropramen Brewery and see the beer production happening on a large scale with a tour of the brewery, followed by some crisp, cold brews in their exquisite restaurant among a local crowd. If you visit, be sure to try the Nefiltrovaný, one of their specialty beers, which is non-filtered and therefore richer and more full-bodied in taste and texture.

Contact : Nádražní 43/84, 150 00 Praha 5 https://pivovary-staropramen.cz/en 

Pivovarský Dům

Brewery Pivovarský Dům is popular with tourists and non-traditional local beer drinkers.  It is a brewery and restaurant producing not only an excellent classic Czech lager, but also modern beers with some extremely distinct and unique flavors. You can sample from the variety of craft beers with tastes such as coffee, sour cherry, blueberry, nettle or banana flavors. And there is a Russian Imperial Stout which is a must try if you love the combination of coffee and chocolate. You can also find a specialty beer called  “Šamp” – the beer champagne, which even non-drinks tend to fall in love with.

Pivovarský Dům also offers more traditional flavored beers such as signature beer the Štěpán (Stephen) beer which comes in both a classic pale Czech lager and a classic dark Czech lager, both of which are unfiltered and unpasteurized.

The food is also another draw for the brewery. If you are there to try some beer, then you should definitely order the ‘Beer Soup’ and ‘Brewer’s goulash with dumplings’ which are the perfect combination for a beer tasting. There is also a whole section of the menu devoted to ‘Little Things That Go Well With Beer’ such as marinated sausages, beer cheese spread, fried bread with garlic and a cheese spread with garlic.

Contact: Ječná 15, 120 44 Nové Město, Praha 1 https://www.pivovarskydum.com/en/home

New Town Brewery

Novoměstský Pivovar or New Town Brewery is located in the heart of Prague just around the corner from the most famous square in the Czech Republic, Wenceslas Square in the New Town of Prague. Opening in 1993 after the fall of the communist regime, this brewery was the first to open in the 20th century in Prague. The experience there is both what you would hope when dining at a brewery, as well as one which you couldn’t have imagined.

Upon entering, the emblematic copper tanks full of crisp, golden liquid are in plain sight, causing your mouth to start watering immediately. While this has become quite common among smaller microbreweries now, what will surprise you is that while the brewery doesn’t look exceptional large from the street, once you enter you’ll find yourself in a maze of rooms, hallways and alcoves, which allow for a more intimate setting than some of the larger breweries.

The brewery tour is highly recommended as visitors learn the details of the beer making process and even learn the secrets to the recipe. What sets Novoměstský Pivovar apart from other breweries is that it is the only microbrewery in Prague which uses Pivovice, or distilled beer spirits, from its own beer. A brewery tour will allow you to sample some of this Pivovice.

Contact: Vodickova 20, New Town, Praha 1, www.npivovar.cz/en

List of Prague's Very Best Breweries

Strahov Monastery Brewery (Klašterní Pivovar Strahov)

Staropramen Pivovar (Potrefená Husa Na Verandách restaurant)

Pivovarský Dům Brewery House

Novoměstský Pivovar (New Town Brewery)

Pivovar Národní (National Brewery)

Loď Pivovar on the Boat

U Medvídků (By the Bear Pivovar, Hotel and Restaurant)

Sousedský Pivovar Bašta (Neighborhood Brewery Bastion)

Further List of Where To Visit the Top Breweries in Prague

Brewery národní.

One of the newer microbreweries in the center of Prague is called in Czech Pivovar Národní, or the National Brewery as it is located just steps from the National Theater. Pivovar Národní opened in 2015 in the Voršilský Monastery which dates back to the 17th Century. This brewery sets itself apart from other breweries in town and throughout the Czech Republic in its fearless attitude in regards to experimenting with new beers and new flavors.

While always offering its signature Czech Lion in both filtered and unfiltered forms, and a semi-dark lager, there is also some special and mysterious waiting on tap for all beer drinkers to enjoy. In the past they have crafted delicious brews such as the Golden Rooster, the Crazy Mustang, the Wild Tiger IPA, the Fatty Rabbit APA, the Lionfish, and the Frog Prince. They seem to thoroughly enjoy scripting creative new names to their beers as they do to crafting the drink itself and what is more fun than drinking a ‘Fatty Rabbit APA’?

Contact:   Národní 8, 110 00 Nové Město, Praha 1, https://www.pivovarnarodni.cz/

Boat Brewery in Prague

Why not experience beer from somewhere other than dry land? Come aboard the Boat Brewery on River Vltava in the center of Prague. There are three mouth-pleasing pilsners beer on draft permanently and wide selection of special beers chosen according the season. If you want to enjoy fascinating beers with a fascinating view, come to the Loď Pivovar. From any of the ships 3 decks, visitors and beer lovers can sip away at their favorite brew while enjoying looking out on the Vltava River, across the way towards Letna Park or upstream to have a magnificent view of the Prague Castle. If you look towards shore, you’ll be able to take in the architectural wonders of Prague’s houses and buildings which line the riverfront.

The history of the Lod Pivovar dates back to the early 1960’s when it was christened the Sanssouci in Potsdam, Germany as the flagship of the Potsdam White fleet. It operated between 1962 and 1998 It was later renovated and sold, becoming part of another fleet of ships, under the name Adler Queen. Between 1998 and 2004 the fleet offered transportation on the Oder River between Germany and Poland. Following that stint, the beautiful boat was renamed again to the Classic Queen and served from 2004 – 2015 as an entertainment ship around the Hamburg area. was reconstructed in 2016 and made into to a unique project microbrewery and boat restaurant. It was finally bought by a Czech businessman in 2015 who performed another full renovation to the ship and set it down in Prague to act as a restaurant and pivovar.

Contact: Štefánikův most Dvořákovo nábřeží Kotviště číslo 19, 110 00 Praha 1 https://www.lodpivovar.cz/

U Medvídků, which translates to ‘By the Bear’ is found in the epicenter of Prague as it is equal walking distance to the Charles Bridge, Wenceslas Square and Old Town Square. The whole facility is beer themed. At the entrance the hotel reception is framed with the characteristic copper pipes found in breweries. It is the only hotel which also has a brewery, due to the fact that it was a 15th Century house and former medieval brewery, later converted into a hotel with 45 uniquely decorated rooms. If you really love beer, then considering staying a few nights here and enjoy fresh beer from the tap which is found in your hotel room!

By the Bear also claims to have the STRONGEST BEER IN THE WORLD, although it is closer to the strongest beer made in the Czech Republic in terms of the ABV (alcohol by volume) indicator. This XBEER is 33° which is a local Czech way of measuring the alcohol levels in beer. (most lagers are between 10 and 12°).

Contact: Na Perštýně 345/5, 100 01 Staré Město, Praha 1 https://hotelumedvidku.cz/en/

Sousedský Pivovar Bašta

“The Neighborhood brewery Bašta” is one of the most authentic local microbreweries recommended by Restaurant Guru in 2019.  This authentic place is located in the laid-back neighborhood of Nusle frequented mostly by Czechs. It is right next to the Restaurant U Bansethů, its sister place.  Since its opening in 2007 this brewery has developed a cult-like following as it receives permanent visitors who sometimes do not mind travelling dozens of kilometres to get there. The beers produced there can not be tasted anywhere else. We definitely recommend sampling the beer alongside its famous duck dish. The food is really good (nothing fancy, just simply good) and the beers has won various awards since its founding. If you or you friends are really not that into beer, there is also some exceptional cider available and all of it can be enjoyed at their beer garden which is available during the summer.

Contact: Táborská 49, 140 00 Nusle, Praha 4 https://www.ubansethu.cz/pivovar/

Vinohradský Pivovar

Located in one of the most affluent neighborhoods in Prague, Vinohradský Pivovar – named for its neighborhood of Vinohrady – was only founded in 2014, making it one of the youngest breweries in Prague which is as popular and well-known as some of the some of the oldest breweries. Its interior is a cool, modern vision of the more traditional pivovars found in the Czech Republic. Unlike the darker wooden walls and floor boards, Vinohradský Pivovar is a bright white with lighter colored wooden frames and floors. There are large windows letting in lots of light and huge interior windows which allow the patrons to take a peak at the enormous steel barrels that are constantly brewing the delicious amber liquid that they are all sipping on.

Vinohradský Pivovar brews the typical Czech pilsners and unfiltered lagers but they also experiment and have some fresh batches to taste whenever you visit. They offer many IPAs and APA, which is unique from many of the other breweries on this list. The IPA 14, which is a amber-colored top-fermented special beer at 5.9%. The Imperial IPA 19 is a stronger top-fermented light beer, acquiring its unique color, taste and potency (7.9%) by using the twice the amount of malt and hops that most of its other beers. There is also an Ahtanum IPA with citrus notes and floral aromas (6%). The LIberator APA is much lighter at only 4.5%, named for the American bomber Consolidated B-24 Liberator, it is considered a light summer beer.

Korunní 2506/106, 101 00 Vinohrady, Praha 2, http://www.vinohradskypivovar.cz/

Don’t forget to check out some of our brewery and beer tasting tours which are offered both within Prague as well as the surrounding countryside. If you are into a walking beer tour, check out our most popular one here. Or if you prefer to get out of Prague for the day and see the incredible landscapes, small villages and breath in some fresh country air, check out these tours. 

Important Information: Prague is located in the Schengen Zone, which is a free-travel zone within the European Union. It includes 26 countries in total. Depending on where you are coming from, you might need to secure a visa for the Schengen Zone before visiting the Czech Republic. Please be sure to consider this fact before making plans to visit Prague so that you do not experience any problems upon arrival. Also be be aware that the Czech Republic uses the Czech Korona (czk) rather than the euro since we are not in the eurozone. We look forward to your visit!

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How Budweiser Budvar became the heart of Czech beer culture

At the heart of czech beer culture is a town called budweis. nick redmayne drinks it in, article bookmarked.

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Budweis is the capital of Czech brewing, and Budweiser Budvar is the largest and oldest brewery in town

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Ceské Budějovice, or “Budweis” as it’s known in English, is the capital of southern Bohemia and lies on the Czech Republic’s longest river, the Vltava. The central square is lined with fine Renaissance and Gothic buildings, overlooked by an imposing 16th-century tower. So far, so engagingly central European. However, Ceské Budějovice is pre-eminent in the Czech Republic for something other than architecture: Budweiser Budvar beer.

First things first – yes, Budweiser Budvar. Yes, there is a beer produced by a US-based multi-national with a very similar name – a situation which has concentrated America’s finest legal minds for decades and means, in certain EU countries, US “Budweiser” beer can only be sold as “Bud”.

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But “Budweiser” literally means “of Budweis”, and while the American “Budweiser” has little to do with Ceské Budějovice, there are many breweries that do.

Ceské Budějovice’s historical wealth and pretty buildings are based on beer – its reputation as a brewing city dates back to the 13th century, and it was, at one point, the official imperial brewery for the Holy Roman Empire.

Today, the town is still known for its breweries, and Budweiser Budvar is the best known – as well as the oldest and largest still in existence. Now owned by the state, it’s been making beer in exactly the same way, with exactly the same materials, for over a century.

Inside Budweiser Budvar, the home of Czech brewing

Its credentials have paid off. In 2004, Budweiser Budvar was awarded PGI (Protected Geographical Indication) status by the EU. Its beer now stands alongside the likes of Melton Mowbray pork pies and Parmigiano Reggiano cheese as traditional products made in a traditional way, in a specific region.

It’s brewed using artesian water, Saaz hops from Žatec in northern Bohemia (known as “noble hops” because of their high-quality pedigree), Moravian malted barley, and yeast. Crucially, it undergoes at least 90 days maturation, for a total 102-day brewing time. By way of contrast, popular mass-market beers are sold after just 72 hours.

I’m learning all this at Ceské Budějovice itself – the brewery is open for both tours and tastings. Josef Tolar – recently retired from the role of Budweiser Budvar’s brewmaster – is our guide. Smartly dressed in jacket and tie, wearing glasses and sporting a neat moustache, he has the air of a popular schoolmaster. A good thing, since I’ve come to this city with its 1,000-year-old brewing heritage to soak up all things beer-related.

We start at a wellhead outside the modern brewery, watching clear, cold water flow through a glass tube. Down there, Josef says, they’re drawing “Ice Age” water. “There was no industry, no agriculture at that time – so the water is pristine.” No wonder it hurts to be mistaken for the US brand.

We go inside, up several flights of stairs and onto a balcony overlooking vast copper mash tanks. On the brewhouse floor, we reach into a sack for a handful of fragrant green hops, crumble them on our palms and breathe in deeply. Budvar use fresh hops, not processed pellets, and after a lively, zingy lungful it’s impossible not to smile. Josef suggests I stick my head through an open panel in one of the mash copper tanks and look down. There’s not much to see, but a heady brew of alcoholic Shreddies suffuses my head.

  • 48 Hours in Prague: Where to go and what to see

At the side of the room, polished copper pipes track along a wall. Josef opens one of several brass taps to pour a glass of immature beer, examining the colour and tasting the contents. The flavours are fresh but fleeting. There is a promise of great things, but something is missing: time.

Later, in the cold of the maturation cellars, we walk among tanks containing dizzying volumes of beer, comparing varying ages of Budvar Original and Dark, together with other beers not often seen outside the country: Special, Cvikl and Strong. In 1990, Budvar brewed 450,000 hectolitres a year and exported to 18 countries; now, they make 1,600,000 hectolitres and sell to 76 nations.

For beer connoisseurs sampling straight from the tank is a near religious experience. In the absence of light, movement and oxygen, flavours remain intact. Josef, unsurprisingly, is in his element. Nuances of each brew are identified and compared. Each glass gulped is dangerously refreshing.

Unpasteurised and unfiltered, this is beer as good as it gets. Beer is, of course, part of Czech culture – and, down in the cellars, I can see why.

Travel essentials

Getting there

The writer flew with Jet2 , who offer flights from Newcastle to Prague from £73 return. Other airlines with regional departures include easyJet, Wizz Air and Ryanair. From Prague, trains run at least once an hour to České Budějovice. The journey takes two hours and costs from €13 each way.

Staying there

The Hotel Zatkuv Dum in Ceské Budějovice has doubles from £39, B&B.

More information

Tours of Budweiser Budvar’s brewery are available throughout the year and cost from 120 koruna (£4) per person. To book, see visitbudvar.cz

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Visit the Budweiser Budvar Brewery

When you think of Budweiser, you probably think of the US beer. But in this Czech city is a beer with the same name that’s caused a century of lawsuits!

Written by Michael Turtle

Michael Turtle is the founder of Time Travel Turtle. A journalist for more than 20 years, he's been travelling the world since 2011.

Michael Turtle is the founder of Time Travel Turtle and has been travelling full time for a decade.

Updated: December 7, 2023

Visiting the Budweiser Budvar Brewery

The Budweiser Budvar Brewery in the Czech city of České Budějovice would be an interesting enough place to visit anyway, but its long battle with the American beer of the same name adds a whole other level.

Here's what you need to know to take a tour of the Budweiser Budvar Brewery, including a tasting of its products.

  • Taking a Budweiser Budvar factory tour
  • The battle between Budweiser and Budweiser Budvar
  • My top tips for visiting the Budweiser Budvar Brewery

What’s in a name? When it comes to Budweiser, the answer is years of bitter trademark disputes across the world.

Most people – myself included – probably think of the American beer when they hear the name. Budweiser (the US company) spends millions of dollars in advertising at sporting events that are telecast around the world.

It’s no wonder that’s the first association we make.

But in actual fact, in the majority of countries, if a beer is called Budweiser it’s probably coming from this relatively innocuous brewery in the city of České Budějovice in the Czech Republic.

Is Budweiser Budvar the same as Budweiser?

No, there are two very distinct companies that share the word Budweiser in the name. Budweiser is a US beer brand, while Budweiser Budvar is from a brewery in the Czech Republic. The similarity is because ‘Budweis’ is the German name for the city of České Budějovice, where both beers originally came from.

What is Budweiser Budvar?

Budweiser Budvar is the name of a brewery in the Czech city of České Budějovice. It was founded in 1895 and is still in operation. Its products are exported to many countries around the world, but it is different to the US company called Budweiser.

Can you visit the Budweiser factory in the Czech Republic?

Yes, the Budweiser Budvar Brewery is open to the public and you can take a tour and taste some of its products (even direct from the tank). The brewery is located in the Czech city of České Budějovice.

The name says it all. In German, České Budějovice is called Budweis. The name quite literally says that it is from this city. So how did a US company end up using it?

Well, it started when a brewery from this Czech city started exporting its beer to the US in 1871. Five years later, in 1876, the American distributors started using the name Budweiser.

It wasn’t for another couple of decades, in 1895, that another Czech brewery was formed in České Budějovice. It called itself Budweiser Budvar.

A seemingly innocent enough name, referencing the city it was based in, but it was the beginning of legal action that is still going on more than a century later.

For a big day trip from Prague, there’s this private tour to Český Krumlov that also includes the tour at the Budweiser Budvar Brewery.

I’ll come back to the lawsuits in a minute. To understand a bit more, though, let me take you into the heart of the Czech Budweiser.

Budweiser Budvar factory tour

I am staying in the city of České Budějovice for a couple of nights during my travels through the Czech Republic and I decided to take a tour of the Budweiser factory one afternoon.

The centre of the city has a historic feel, with a market square of colourful facades topped with metal spires. But if you walk for about 30 minutes you hit a more industrial area on the outskirts where the brewery is located.

I sign up for the daily public tour and, as I’m led through the compound, I can see all the action.

Forklifts whizz by, machinery whirs away, and crates of beer are stacked up everywhere.

It’s clean and efficient and there’s something modern about the technology… but it also has the feel of European tradition to it.

In the brew house, for instance, the historic copper tops of the tanks stand between walls with a slightly Soviet feel.

In a cellar with more tanks – these ones used to mature the beer – the corridor is concrete with fluorescent lighting and I feel as though I’m in an Eastern European dungeon (not that I’ve ever been in one, for the record).

In the cellar, everyone on the tour is given a cup of beer straight from the tanks – before the final processes like bottling and pasteurisation have taken place.

Pure, fresh. Untouched by the techniques that allow it to be exported, before it has any labels glued on that will associate it with the legal conflict beyond these walls.

It’s just beer and it’s the taste that matters. The genuine article, perhaps.

My favourite part of the tour comes in the packaging hall. The enormous room is filled with sound and movement, as conveyer belts rattle bottles along at high speed.

There’s a jangling ricocheting through the air, as glass constantly taps glass.

The tour group watches it all from an elevated metal walkway that crosses from one side to another.

I look over, down towards the machines, and it’s almost like a mini city, with large highways, smaller roads and parking stations… except with bottles instead of cars.

The bottles pass through different machines that perform different tasks – washing, filling, labelling, closing, packing. Until there’s a final product.

40,000 bottles can be processed here in an hour!

Budweiser vs Budweiser Budvar

The Budweiser Budvar Brewery here in České Budějovice is a large operation but it has elements that remind you it’s still a local company.

For instance, the water for all the beer comes from the same site, from the ground below. About 40 litres is brought up every second from an artesian well that is 320 metres deep.

The American beer… well, it is made in 12 breweries in the US, 14 breweries in China and in 9 other countries. Not really comparable.

And that brings me back to the trademark dispute. It has been going on for more than a century, since 1907, and has involved more than 100 individual court cases across the world.

The current state of play is that the two companies have the right to market their product as ‘Budweiser’ in different countries.

For instance, if you drink a Budweiser in Australia, the UK or Canada, it will be the American one. If you drink a Budweiser in most of Europe, it will be the Czech one.

When the competitor is selling their product in a country where they don’t own the trademark, they call it something different.

Ultimately, if you know what you’re getting, it doesn’t make a difference. But I do feel sorry for those who drink the American beer, thinking they are getting the Czech one.

That’s the one thing I do have a strong opinion on, having spent a bit of time in the Czech Republic. The beer here is great and the world would be a better place if you could easily get it everywhere!

The Budweiser Budvar Brewery is in the city of České Budějovice, which is about 150 kilometres south of Prague.

The brewery site is a couple of kilometres from the city centre, in a more industrial neighbourhood, but it’s walkable or accessible by public transport.

In July and August, there are two tours a day, but there’s only one a day (in the afternoon) the rest of the year. I recommend checking the details below and planning your visit so you don’t miss it.

As well as the tour, there is a museum on site that you can visit. It’s available even when there aren’t tours, and is open from 09:00 – 17:00 most days.

A few other things worth noting about visiting the Budweiser Budvar Brewery

  • The tour lasts about an hour
  • People on tour who are below 18 will not be offered beer during the beer tasting
  • An individual tour can be organised for visitors in wheelchairs
  • Dogs are not allowed
  • It’s cold in the cellar, you need to bring warm clothes.
  • It’s also possible to book tours outside regular times, tours in different languages, and for groups of more than 5 people.

Where is the Budweiser Budvar Brewery?

The Budweiser Budvar Brewery is about 2.5 kilometres north of the city’s historic centre. The official address is K. Světlé 512/4, 370 04, České Budějovice. You can here to see it on a map .

How do you get to the Budweiser Budvar Brewery?

It takes about 30 minutes to walk from the main train station or the centre of the city. Or use tram #2 to get there by public transport.

When is the Budweiser Budvar Brewery tour?

From January to February, there is an English tour at 14:40 (closed Sunday). From March to June, there is just an English tour every day at 14:40. In July and August, there are English tours every day at 10:40 and 14:40. From September to December, there is just an English tour every day at 14:40. There are also tours in Czech 40 minutes earlier, and in German 20 minutes earlier.

How much does a Budweiser Budvar Brewery tour cost?

The tour costs 220Kc per person (US$9.90), with a concession ticket costing 150Kc (US$6.75). Children aged 6 or under are free. The tour includes a guide in English, German or Czech. It takes about an hour.

For more information, you can visit the brewery’s official website here .

If you’re hungry, there is a restaurant at the brewery that serves typical Czech food (and beer, of course). It’s probably not the best place to eat, though, and you would be better getting a meal in the city centre, if you can.

In fact, if you come to České Budějovice, I would recommend trying to spend some time in the city. There’s a beautiful square in the Old Town and some interesting historic sights.

The city makes a convenient stop on a day trip to Český Krumlov , for example, or it can be a destination in its own right.

THE BEST ACCOMMODATION IN ČESKÉ BUDEJOVICE

It’s a small city and you should be able to find something nice in the historic centre or walking distance from the train station..

If you’re looking for a budget option, I would suggest Cuba Bar and Hostel in the centre of the city.

budvar tour prague

For something a bit local, Hotel Bohemia is a good option because it has a popular beer garden on site.

budvar tour prague

For a cool and stylish option, you should try  U Tří Hrušek Suites & Apartments .

budvar tour prague

And if you’re after a bit of luxury, have a look at Zvon Design Suites .

More stories about the Czech Republic

  • The best things to do in Prague
  • My top day trips from Prague
  • Tips for visiting Cesky Krumlov
  • What to see at Kutna Hora
  • The Czech Republic's church of bones!
  • The incredible castle at Kromeriz
  • The story behind Telc's charming square
  • Why the village of Holasovice is important
  • Hiking in Bohemian Paradise

1 thought on “Visit the Budweiser Budvar Brewery”

Interesting! I had no idea there was another Budweiser!

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8 Beers You Have To Try in Prague in 2024

Jan Vojtasek Last Updated: October 26, 2023

Do you fancy a Czech beer? Well, come on over and drink every last sip of the best beers you’ve ever tasted. Here I will recommend the beers to try in Prague. Czech beers have a wide variety of filtered and unfiltered flavors, so prepare your palate to drink quality beer in the amazing city of Prague.

Top 8 Czech Beers That You Have To Try in Prague

Because we are a beer country, Czech beer is for us a liquid jewel. According to the Guinness World Records, our country has the highest per capita consumption of beer worldwide! To be specific, according to the Czech Statistical Office, 140 liters per person were drunk in 2020—which corresponds to 296 pints per person!

Since ancient times in our country, beer was considered a delicious and cheap liquid drink and ingredient. In fact, in those ancient times, Czech women in most homes brewed beer in the primitive way and used it to make soups and sauces.

Author Gabriela Basarová said that one of the Czech beer geniuses, named František Ondřej Poupě, was the first to use innovative techniques for brewing beer. He had a motto: “Wheat for cakes, oats for horses, and only barley for beer.”

Personally, it is difficult to say which beer is the best in the Czech Republic since there are more than 500 places where beer is brewed. In Czech Republic, brewing is our centuries-old tradition. Let me introduce you to eight of the most excellent Czech beers you have to try in Prague, including a popular nonalcoholic beer.

Birell

Birell is one of the best-known nonalcoholic beers in the Czech Republic. It is inspired by Czech lager beers and made with the exclusive Birell yeast and Czech barley.

Another feature of this nonalcoholic beer is that it has different types and flavors, such as dark beer, a light flavor, or with green barley and citrus flavor. There are a variety of beer combinations with fruity aromas that are perfect for refreshing yourself during the summer months.

You can find this beer in Prague in most breweries and also in supermarkets.

7. Radegast Ryze Hořká 12

Radegast

Radegast Ryze Hořká 12 beer has an appreciably bitter taste. It is one of my favorites also because of this strong taste. This beer is a light lager type, and its bitter taste comes from the excellent quality of the three types of hops that come from the Moravia region.

This beer has won awards in tasting competitions and is produced by the Radegast brewery, which is located in the town of Nošovice. The Radegast brewery produces many other types of beers, such as:

  • Rázná 10: This is a beer that has a balance between bitterness and hop flavor. It is also made with three types of hops and has 4.1% alcohol.
  • Temně Hořká 12: It is an amber, semi-dark lager-type beer with a full bitter taste and has 5.2% alcohol.
  • Nefiltrovaná 12: This beer also has a strong lager-like flavor but is unpasteurized. It has a cloudy appearance due to the live yeast in the beer. It has 5.1% alcohol.
  • Ratar: Ratar is the most bitter Radegast beer of all and is made with Polaris hops with 4.3% alcohol.
  • Extra Hořká 15: It is a dark-colored beer with a balanced bitter taste and a slight caramel flavor with 6.5% alcohol.
  • Rog IPA: A beer with a high fermentation. It also has a strong aroma of hops where the slight aroma of citrus and grapefruit dominates. It is cooked in the IPA style with 4.6% alcohol.

6. Budweiser Budvar

Budweiser Budvar top beers to try in prague

This lager beer is originally Czech and has an alcohol content of 5%, made with hops from the Moravian region. The other unique thing is its long maturation period, which results in an incredible flavor.

This beer is brewed by the Czech brewery Budějovický Budvar, located in the city of České Budějovice, that produced its first beer in 1985, according to its website. The brewery registered its brand under the name Budvar in 1930, and this name was used to export the 12° light lager beer. Years later, it was established as a national company of Budweiser Budvar.

This brewing company offers other types of beer, including the following:

  • Budvar 33: It is a light beer that has 33 units of bitterness due to the Czech Agnus hops, one of the most bitter varieties in existence.
  • Tmavý Ležák: This beer is dark, strongly flavored and slightly bitter but with hints of coffee.
  • Nealko: It is a light beer without alcohol, therefore it’s good for those who are not drinking alcohol.
  • Výčepní: It is a low-calorie beer made with Satu Mare hops.
  • Reserve: This beer is golden with a strong malt flavor. It is matured for 200 days and is only made for export.

Bernard

Bernard Sváteční Ležák beer is one of many beers produced by the well-known Bernard brewery. This lager-type beer has a delicate yeast flavor, which allows the beer to have a second fermentation directly in the bottle with the addition of the finer yeast. As a result, this beer has a slightly cloudy color and may contain some yeast sediment.

Its flavor is exquisite, and it has an alcohol content of 5%. The Bernard brewery makes this beer (and others) in the town of Humpolec. During its early years, the brewery was called Humpolec, and it had a bit of a bad reputation before it was bought out. Thus the brand of the brewery named Bernard came to be with better quality beer.

Additionally, this brewery was the first in the Czech Republic to introduce microbiological filtration without pasteurization. Bernard Brewery currently offers 15 unfiltered beers plus bottled beers.

Planning a trip to Prague? Use our local’s recommendation for the top things to do in Prague, plus the things to see at the Prague Castle , and where to stay in the city!

Kozel

Kozel is the famous goat beer that is widely consumed among the Czechs, so if you are a lover of light or dark beer, you must try it. It’s produced by the Velké Popovice brewery located in the town of the same name.

There’s a story behind the use of the goat in their brand. According to the legend of the brewery, there was a French painter who visited the town and loved the hospitality of the people so much that he made them a painting of a goat with a beer. It became the symbol of the brewery, and they even bought a goat to increase the brewery’s luck.

The Kozel brewery produces several types of beer:

  • Kozel 10: It is the most popular, its flavor a mix between roasted malt and hop bitterness at 4.2% alcohol.
  • Kozel 11: This beer has a fuller flavor and is made with three types of malt with 4.6% alcohol.
  • Černý: It is a black beer, combining four malts and a mild caramel flavor with 3.8% alcohol.
  • Řezaný: This beer is special due to the combination of a delicate flavor of light beer and caramel tone of dark beer. It has 4.7% alcohol.
  • Mistrův Ležák: A carefully cooked and matured lager beer, it has four types of malt and three types of hops. It is Master Kozel’s beer with 4.8% alcohol.
  • Pšeničný: The first top-fermented wheat beer also has a light taste with 5.2% alcohol.
  • Tmavý: An unfiltered dark lager. This beer has two types of chocolate roasted malt with 4.4% alcohol.

3. Staropramen

Staropramen top beers to try in prague

This beer is produced by the Staropramen brewery in the Smichov area of Prague. It’s popular—you’ll see people drinking it in all the pubs. Try it! You will love it! And if you love it enough, then consider going to this brewery and taking a tour to learn about the process and the history of this tasty beer in Prague.

This brewery produces many types of beer, including a selection of unfiltered, semi-dark beers. Among the classics we can mention are:

  • Staropramen Smichov: It is the most popular beer of the brand. It has a golden color and a delicate flavor of malt and hops.
  • Jedenactka: Golden amber colored beer with seven types of hops and three types of malt, also with a pronounced bitter taste.
  • Ležák: Lager beer with Czech aromatic hops and honest fermentation.
  • Černý: Dark lager beer
  • Nealko: It is a bitter beer but without alcohol and made with controlled fermentation.
  • Dečko: Traditional beer with a low sugar content.

2. Gambrinus

Gambrinus

Gambrinus represents a classic of Czech beer. It is made with Pilsen water and has a delicious taste with bitterness and rich foam. This beer is brewed by the great Plznsky Prasdoj brewing company, which produces the famous Pilsner Urquell.

Gambrinus beer offers us so many excellent beer that I cannot fail to mention since they are some of my favorites.

  • Nepasterizovaná 11: It is perfect for lovers of beer with a strong flavor. It is also a lager type with a degree of 4.6% alcohol.
  • 10: This beer has a pleasant bitter taste and is made with three types of malt and two types of Czech hops.
  • 12: This is an excellent complete lager beer with its own Pilsen, toasted, and with caramel malt to make an intense flavor.
  • Nefiltrovaný Ležák: It is a rich, unfiltered lager beer with a cloudy color and a strong bitter taste—characteristic of the fresh yeast and malt it contains.
  • Gambrinus original 10: It is the classic Gambrinus brand beer that’s always delicious.
  • Patron 12 : Beer made with a good proportion of Satu Mare hops and three types of malt.
  • Dry: This beer has a higher fermentation and less sugar content, so it’s good for those who are watching their sugar levels.

1. Pilsner Urquell

Pilsner Urquell  top beers to try in prague

The mother of beers—as I have named it—is Pilsner Urquell, and it is produced by the Prasdoj brewery in the city of Pilsen. In addition, the Pilsner type of beer category (pale lager beer) was created here for the first time in the world, which is now known worldwide since many beers were inspired by this type of beer. For this reason, it is one of the beers in Prague that you must try on your first day.

Per Pilsner Urquell’s website, this lager beer has a unique flavor thanks to the ingredients used to produce it, such as Pilsen water (which has a low mineral content), its own malt (thanks to the barley from the Moravian region), and Satu Mare hops (that gives a bitter taste to the beer). it also has a threefold maceration process, and the beer is fermented in oak barrels to preserve its flavor.

So if you come to Prague, you can’t miss trying the original Pilsner beer straight from the barrel, which is very important to taste it correctly. The beer must always have a moist, thick, creamy foam. It’s surely one of the best beers to try in Prague!

where to stay in prague

Where to Stay in Prague

Prague has a rich cultural history that is seen in both the Old Town and New Town areas of the city. Plan where to stay in this magnificent old city in the best neighborhoods.

kayaks on shore with colorful houses

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Decline and Rise of Czech Beer Brewing: 16th-19th centuries

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Prague.net »  Eat & Drink » Budejovicky Budvar

  • Budejovicky Budvar

Budejovicky Budvar is a state brewery placed on the south of the Czech Republic, best known for their brew called Budejovicky Budvar in the Czech republic, Budweiser Budvar in European Union, Czechvar in the United States and Canada, in the rest of the world either Budweiser Budvar or Budějovický Budvar.

The Czech Brewery in Budejovice, which was named Budweiser by the Germans, was founded in 1895. Anheuser-Busch founded his American label Budweiser in 1876. Those two breweries fight for the Budweiser label and its variations for over a hundred years. Most of the disputes, however, were in the recent year, when Budvar increased export.

Budvar is the third largest Czech beer producer and the last state brewery. Almost a half of the Budejovicky Budvar production is exported into more than 50 countries of all the continents. In 2008, the yearly production of the house was 1 253 000 hectolitres.

Since three companies had or have trademarks for the name “Budweiser”, they have been party to many lawsuits in a number of countries. Because of such disputes, Budvar is sold in the United States and Canada under the label Czechvar.

The most valuable item in possession of Budvar is the label Budweiser Budvar, having, according to previous estimates, value of billion dollars.

What makes Budejovicky Budvar so special? The Brewery lives according to its tradition, the process practically haven’t changed from the original way of brewing. Also, the raw materials are used without any artificial ingredients. Water used is from 300m artesian wells, contributing to the characteristic taste of the beer. Malt is the base material, grown at Moravia, which means it is one of the best in the world. Hops, the spice of the beer, are grown in Zatec, again the top enterprise in hops production.

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7 Beautiful Prague River Cruise Options

The enchanting city of Prague Czech Republic, where history and beauty merge seamlessly along the banks of the Vltava River.

Why a Prague river cruise is worth every moment…

If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience that encompasses stunning landscapes, iconic landmarks, and a touch of romance, then hop aboard a Prague boat tour.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or a first-time visitor, these Prague river cruises offer a unique perspective on the city’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems. Prepare to be captivated by breathtaking views and immerse yourself in centuries of fascinating history.

I will share the best river cruises in Prague and why embarking on a leisurely Prague cruise along the picturesque Vltava should be at the top of your travel itinerary.

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7 Best Prague River Cruises

boat on water with bridge on prague river cruise

1. Sightseeing Dinner Cruise on Open-Top Glass Boat

⭐️  RATING:  4.4/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:   3 hours

Indulge in the mesmerizing view of Prague’s historic landmarks illuminated against the night sky, including the iconic Prague Castle.

Experience this enchanting buffet Prague dinner cruise on a modern open-top glass boat, where style meets the city’s timeless beauty.

Prague Cruise River: What’s included

  • Buffet dinner with a wide selection of Czech and international dishes
  • Welcome drink (glass of Prosecco)
  • Live music during the cruise
  • Online audio commentary and a map available in multiple languages

River Cruise Prague: Things to Know Before Booking

  • Cancel up to 6 hours in advance for a full refund
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • This is an evening activity
  • Guaranteed seating based on the option selected
  • Access to insulated deck and open deck for photo opportunities
“The music and sightseeing were excellent. We had exclusive tickets along the windows. Unobstructed views were worth the extra $. Two musicians were so talented and engaging. The food was ok not great. Service was good. We will always remember this special night.” Laura of Canada

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2. Historical River Cruise 

⭐️  RATING:  4.3/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:   45 minutes

Leisurely cruise Prague river while listening to an informative audio guide, unveiling the stories of Prague Castle and the illustrious Charles Bridge that unfold before your eyes.

Boat trip Prague: What’s included

  • Audio guide in 19 languages (English, Spanish, Turkish, Korean, Chinese, Czech, Dutch, French, German, Greek, Hebrew, Hungarian, Italian, Japanese, Arabic, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Serbian)
  • One drink (choose from beer, soda, water, tea, coffee, or mulled wine during winter)
  • Traditional gingerbread in winter or ice cream in summer
  • Entry ticket to Charles Bridge Museum

Prague Boat Trips: Things to Know Before Booking

  • Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
  • Not Wheelchair accessible
  • The boats depart every 15 minutes
“This was a surprisingly excellent tour, you start Charles Bridge under the bridge and you are offered free drinks each which was so refreshing, once onboard they offered us either a free ice-cream or ginger bread. The boat is a small traditional wooden boat and it’s excellent to see and get close up look at the bridge and also the canal with water mill so better than getting a big boat. Tour guide was excellent, you also given an audioguide as you travel around the river. You then can visit the museum as part of your ticket so over all excellent value for money, great views and great service.” Jay of Ireland

3.  Vltava River Lunch Cruise in an Open-Top Glass Boat

⭐️  RATING:  4.4/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:   2 hours

Boat Ride Prague: What’s included

  • Buffet lunch with Aperitif
  • Online audio commentary and online map available in 6 languages (Czech, English, Spanish, German, Chinese, and Russian)
  • Live music onboard

Prague Boat Tours: Things to Know Before Booking

  • There is a maximum number of people per booking for the window option. If your group is bigger, then please place another order, but you might not be sitting together
“It might seem a bit expensive, but from all the boats that do this kind of journey, this one is definitely the fanciest one. The buffet is absolutely worth the money and I can also highly recommend paying a bit extra for a window seat. You won’t regret it 😉” Jerry of UK

swans on river with bridge on prague river cruise

4.  Vltava River Sightseeing Cruise

⭐️  RATING:  3.8/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:   2 hours

Why not take a river sightseeing cruise to gaze upon the iconic Prague Castle, the historic Charles Bridge, the charming Kampa Island, the majestic Vyšehrad Rock Castle, and other splendid Prague highlights—all from a unique and enchanting waterborne perspective.

River Cruises Prague: What’s included

  • Online audio commentary and online map

Prague Boats: Things to Know Before Booking

  • Some past travellers have commented that sometimes the boat gets caught at the locks and can’t move
“The ship was beautifully kept and the 2 hour cruise was very relaxing. We enjoyed drinks onboard which were served at our table and paid our tab near the end of the cruise. We had a table for 2 by the windows and had a great view of the city from our seats. We would definitely recommend this trip if you have a spare few hours in Prague.” Lynn of UK

5.  Jazz Boat Cruise with Concert

⭐️  RATING:  4.5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:   2.5 hours

Immerse yourself in the sensory delights of Prague! Listen to the rich melodies of quality jazz while cruising through the heart of the city.

The Jazz Aperitif Cruise commences at 5 PM, elevate your experience further by savouring a meal onboard.

Boat Trips in Prague: What’s included

  • Live jazz music
  • 3-course dinner (only if option chosen)
  • At some tables, you may be seated together with other guests
  • The open upper deck of the boat has a roof cover and retractable plastic side covers in case of a bad weather
“We elected to sit in the upper deck without the optional dinner. It was a perfect choice for us. The music was very good, but not too loud since we were not in the same room as the band. Small group of people, so no big crowd on a boat. Prague at night from the river is one of the most beautiful sights. We drank wine and enjoyed the great weather and views. Highly recommend if you are looking to cruise the river in Prague.” Karen of USA

6.  Swimming Beer Bike on A Cycle Boat

⭐️  RATING:  4.6/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:   1.5 hours

Cruise along the river on the exclusive cycle boat, savouring ice-cold premium Czech beer as you pedal. Unparalleled river views while pedalling on the only cycle boat in Europe.

It’s a unique experience that combines refreshing drinks, active fun, and breathtaking scenery into one unforgettable activity. A must for a group of friends or as a way to meet other travellers.

Boat Party Prague Tour: What’s included

  • Choose one: unlimited Czech Budvar beer, 7 bottles of Prosecco, or 15L of cider
  • Bartender/Captain

Best Boat Tour Prague: Things to Know Before Booking

  • Don’t forget to bring your ID
  • If choosing the Prosecco or cider option, contact the local partner prior to your trip or put it into the comments of the tour package when booking
“Had a blast on this trip – would definitely recommend for stag or hen trip.” Ross of UK

7.  Boat Ride to the Zoo and Admission Ticket

⭐️  RATING:  4.4/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:   7 hours

This just might be the best boat tour in Prague for families!

Head to the Prague Zoo by boat, accompanied by a guide. Upon reaching the zoo, enjoy seeing all of the varieties of wild and rare animals.

River Cruises to Prague: What’s included

  • Live tour guide on the boat (German, English, Russian, French, Italian, Spanish)
  • Zoo entry ticket
  • Drink and snack on the Prague cruise
  • Ticket for public transport back to the city
  • Don’t forget your camera and wear comfortable shoes
“It was a great day overall. Martin, our guide, was a great guy and told us many things during the boat ride. The zoo is huge and has so many animals to see. The only thing I would change would be the time of the beginning of the tour. It it was earlier there would be more time to spend in the zoo. Despite that I recommend 100% this tour and choose Martin as your tour guide!” Catarina of Portugal

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Why a River Cruise in Prague is Worth Every Moment

water with bridge and building on prague cruise river

  • Mesmerizing Panoramic Views: As you glide along the tranquil waters of the Vltava River, prepare to be captivated by this UNESCO-listed city with its postcard-perfect vistas that unfold before your eyes. Marvel at Prague Castle majestically perched on Hradčany Hill, Charles Bridge stretching across the river like a work of art, and the colourful facades lining both banks. A river cruise offers an unbeatable vantage point to take in these panoramas while enjoying a refreshing breeze.
  • Unveiling Architectural Gems: Prague’s architectural treasures are best appreciated by its waterways. From Gothic marvels such as St. Vitus Cathedral to Baroque beauties like St. Nicholas Church, each landmark reveals its true splendour when viewed from afar during a river cruise. The seamless blend of styles showcased in buildings like Dancing House in New Town and Vyšehrad Fortress will leave you awestruck.
  • Leisurely Exploration: A river cruise allows you to relax and soak up the city’s charm without worrying about navigating busy streets or getting lost in unfamiliar neighbourhoods. Sit back on deck with your favourite beverage in hand or enjoy some delicious local cuisine while effortlessly drifting past iconic sites—no maps required! It’s an ideal way to unwind and truly appreciate all that Prague has to offer.
  • Unique Perspectives at Different Times: Whether it’s an afternoon delight or under moonlit skies, each time of day presents a different ambiance during a river cruise. Daytime cruises offer vibrant views and the chance to witness Prague’s bustling life, while evening cruises provide a romantic setting with illuminated landmarks casting their magical glow upon the water. Choose the timing that suits you best and prepare for an unforgettable experience.
  • Cultural Enrichment: Most river cruises in Prague include informative audio guides or live commentary, offering fascinating insights into history like the Jewish Ghetto , culture and interesting facts about the city.

FAQs About Prague River Cruise

water with buildings and prague castle on a river cruise prague

What will I see during a Prague river cruise?

During a Prague river cruise, you’ll pass iconic landmarks like Charles Bridge, Prague Castle, the National Theatre, and the Dancing House, all beautifully illuminated in the evening.

Are Prague river cruises guided?

Yes, most Prague river cruises are guided. Knowledgeable guides provide commentary in multiple languages, sharing historical and cultural insights about the city’s attractions.

How long do Prague river cruises last?

The duration of Prague river cruises varies. Daytime cruises can last around 1 to 2 hours, while dinner cruises often extend to 2 to 3 hours, allowing time for both dining and sightseeing.

Are Prague river cruises available year-round?

Yes, many river cruises operate year-round. The experience changes with the seasons, offering the chance to enjoy Prague’s beauty from the water in different contexts.

Are Prague river cruises affected by weather conditions?

Weather conditions can impact river cruises. Cruises may be cancelled or rescheduled during adverse weather. It’s best to check with the operator before your planned cruise.

As a Holidaymaker

Enjoy your Prague River tour. I have no doubt it will be a highlight of your trip!

Next, go to my Czech Republic Travel Guide for more information to help plan your trip and access more articles.

river with bridge and tower on prague river cruise

Creator, Founder of Dream Plan Experience

She specializes exclusively in European travel and crafting unforgettable day trips within her home province of Ontario, Canada.

She has been travelling to Europe for over 35 years and has lived abroad in Germany twice. Revisiting countries and exploring them extensively to create in depth travel itineraries, destination guides and helping travellers plan their trips to Europe through her customized services.

She also is a co-partner in a woman-led company that offers luxury retreats in Europe offering immersive cultural experiences.

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OUR BREWERY

We’ve only ever made our beer in one place in the world – the historic brewing town of české budějovice, or budweis., this is the story of who we are and where we come from..

budvar tour prague

ČESKÉ BUDĚJOVICE IS PUT ON THE MAP

It’s 1265. Dynasties rising, falling and expanding; the royal houses of Europe battling for territory. And one beer-loving ruler, Ottokar II (Přemysl Otakar II) King of Bohemia, founds the town of České Budějovice – our hometown. Ottokar was a man who had his priorities right. The first privilege he bestowed on the town was the right to brew beer.

And to this day we still only ever brew Budweiser Budvar right here. Every single drop of it.

budvar tour prague

GOOD KING WENCESLAS LOOKED OUT…FOR US

On 20 June 1410, another King of Bohemia, Wenceslas IV – sadly not the famous one from the Christmas carol – became worried about the integrity and quality of our beer. Bohemia boasted the perfect climate and fertile soils needed for making great tasting beer and so respected was the České Budějovice brewing industry that other brewers from other countries were muscling in, hoping to attach themselves to our good name. Sound familiar?

Thankfully, King Wenceslas was a fan of excellence and he extended a law that meant no foreign malt houses, breweries or pubs could be located within a mile of České Budějovice and its surroundings.

budvar tour prague

PROTECTING A GREAT REPUTATION

By 1464, imposters and encroachers were everywhere. The quality of the brewing and the popularity of the beer from České Budějovice meant many people wanting to trade on the town’s reputation and natural resources flocked here. But the citizens had other ideas. They enforced their rights in an early show of quality over quantity, dismantling the malthouses, breweries and pubs that had sprung up in the mile radius of the town’s fortifications and surroundings.

1495 – 1895

Beer of the gods.

A large town brewery was founded in the fifteenth century that brewed ‘white’ (wheat) beer as opposed to the dark beers the citizens were free to brew themselves. What followed was a rapid rise in brewing consistency and reputation. České Budějovice became the most important brewing city of the Holy Roman Empire. So excellent was the beer that the Holy Roman Emperor himself, Ferdinand I, ordered our maltsters and brewers to brew beer for him personally.

In the following centuries, a second town brewery was opened. Soon the townsfolk petitioned for ownership of both breweries to pass to the citizens of the town. They became civic breweries, owned by the people. But these years also saw great upheaval. Czech lands were ravaged in the Thirty Years’ War, and the Kingdom of Bohemia became part of the Habsburg Monarchy.

budvar tour prague

THE BUDWEISER BUDVAR BREWERY IS BORN

In 1895, the Czech Republic was still part of Austria-Hungary. České Budějovice was referred to by the German name ‘Budweis’, and the reputation of our beer ‘Budweis-er’ was known across the world. But the citizens of Budweis were divided; the Czech brewers weren’t happy brewing under a German-run and German-owned civic brewery. So, in an early example of crowd-funding and national pride, the Czech brewers sourced the money to merge together and form a Czech brewery, owned by Czech people. The Joint-Stock Brewery was founded and began brewing Budweiser with quality Czech ingredients and new technology on the same spot we still do today.

budvar tour prague

CHAMPION BEER

Word of our expertly brewed Czech beer was spreading far and wide. Rich, deep, flavourful; sweet but with a crisp bitterness and floral hop aroma, Budweiser beer was in serious demand. Our brewery quickly established itself outside the Czech borders, grabbing attention across Europe. And as early as 1896, our beer was bringing home honours and awards from prestigious food and drink shows.

budvar tour prague

WHAT’S IN A NAME?

When American brewing corporation Anheuser-Busch registered a ‘Budweiser’ trademark in the USA, the two breweries actually located in the city of Budweis protested. It was 1907 and the Czech Joint-Stock Brewery had already been exporting Budweiser beer to the USA for five years. But eventually a contract was signed in 1911 and the Czech Joint-Stock Brewery agreed to recognise – for compensation – the validity of the US registration. It did not, however, give up the right to label our beer with the word ‘Budweiser’ or the word ‘Original’ around the world.

budvar tour prague

‘BUDVAR’ BECOMES A PART OF OUR IDENTITY

In 1930, our brewery registered its ‘Budvar’ trademark for our 12° export pale lager. The extraordinary international success of this trademark and its recognition eventually led our board of directors to add the word to the name of our brewery. From 1936, it became: Budvar Czech Joint-Stock Brewery, České Budějovice.

budvar tour prague

THE WAR YEARS

At the beginning of 1939, the eve of World War II in Europe, both the Budweiser breweries still located in České Budějovice were forced into entering new agreements with the Anheuser-Busch corporation under the threat of confiscation of all their goods in the USA. This meant we were unable to use the words ‘Budweiser’, ‘Budweis’ and other derivatives in the area of North America, anywhere north of Panama. If you’ve ever wondered why we have to call our beer ‘Czechvar’ across America, even though we’re the brewery from Budweis, here’s your answer.

budvar tour prague

OUR BREWERY GETS OCCUPIED

During World War II, Czechoslovakia is occupied by the Nazis. Although our national spirit, resistance and sense of Czechness is never broken, a Nazi-party administrator is allocated to run the Budvar Czech Joint-Stock Brewery, České Budějovice. We had been exporting huge amounts of our beer across the world up to this point. But in 1942 all export of our beer is wiped out overnight. It would be a long time before we reached the pre-war export levels again.

budvar tour prague

1959 – 1966

THE SIXTIES AND STYLE

The Sixties saw our brewery scooping more international awards for quality, taste and our strict sticking to traditional brewing methods. But that’s not to say we were immune to the style revolution sweeping the world. Many of our classic, handcrafted design motifs came out of this vintage period for design, including a few that we still use on our labelling today.

budvar tour prague

BUDWEISER BUDVAR, THE NATIONAL CORPORATION, IS BORN

In 1967, Budweiser Budvar became a national corporation. As successor to the original Czech Joint-Stock Brewery and the Civic Brewery in České Budějovice, we took over their trademarks too, and made a promise to carry on the long and proud heritage of the town: brewing the highest quality Bohemian pilsner in the world.

budvar tour prague

ONE CZECH BEER. 10.5 MILLION OWNERS.

In 1991, following the Velvet Revolution and the end of communist rule in Czechoslovakia, our brewery became independent. Although there were attempts to buy stakes and take ownership from investors and multinational brewing companies, we resisted. And we’re proud to still be independent and completely owned by the Czech people today. That means we have 10.5 million owners, and they really know their beer. Globally, the 1990s saw huge change in brewing production methods and the beginning of a decline in using more traditional ingredients like whole-cone hops.

But not at Budweiser Budvar. Our independence ensured our beer remained brewed according to German ‘Reinheitsgebot’ or purity laws, meaning only malted barley, hops, yeast, and water could be used. Even so, we still managed to double our production in a decade without any compromise on ingredients, quality or taste.

budvar tour prague

BRINGING THE BEST BOHEMIAN BEER TO THE WORLD (AGAIN)

In 1996 we were able to export over a hundred million litres of our beer around the world. It had taken us half a century to restore what the war took away, but we managed it. That’s Czech spirit for you.

budvar tour prague

WE KNOW WHERE WE’RE FROM, DO EU?

In 2004, the European Commission awarded our beer ‘Protected Geographical Indication’ status, recognising that we only brew with the finest Czech ingredients: whole-cone Saaz hops from Žatec; malting barley from the Hana region of Moravia, a 125-year-old heritage brewer’s yeast and pure artesian water from an Ice Age aquifer 300m underneath the brewery. We’ve always known where our beer comes from; now everyone who drinks it knows too.

budvar tour prague

OPENING UP OUR HOME

In 2005, our historic brewery opened up its new visitor centre, including a walkthrough of the history of brewing in České Budějovice and tours of our hallowed brewery cellars where all Budweiser Budvar is still cold conditioned for around 90 days, longer than any other brewery of our size in the world. Being here, immersing yourself in our Czech beer culture, and tasting our unfiltered and unpasteurised beer straight from the maturation tanks is described as a near-religious experience for beer lovers. We’d love you to come and see for yourself. But dress warm. Our vast cellars are kept at a steady 2 degrees centigrade, so it can get a little cold.

budvar tour prague

TOP OF THE HOPS

We believe our hops are the finest in the world – noble, whole-cone Saaz hops, which still arrive in the brewery dried, packed and sealed with a wax stamp to guarantee origin and quality. In 2012, we decided we wanted to make use of the fresh, green hop flowers that come straight off the bine. Our special edition Fresh-Hopped Imperial Lager debuted in 2012, bringing the green hops and all their sticky goodness into the brewing process on the day they get harvested. This special beer is matured for four months creating an imperial-strength, sweet-tasting, burnished golden beer with an irresistibly hoppy foam.

budvar tour prague

WHO KNOWS WHERE THE TIME GOES?

More than any other brewery, we understand that the best things take time. It’s well known that our beer matures and conditions for around 90 days, but actually the journey of its creation has taken far longer. In 2015, we celebrated the brewery’s 120th anniversary. It gave us a good chance to really reflect on our history and how far we’ve come.

budvar tour prague

BUDWEISER BUDVAR EXPORTS THE MOST BEER IN ITS HISTORY

Between 2017 and 2018, we broke new records. A rising demand for craft lager has seen a rediscovery of the beers that were the originators and the pioneers. Brands like Budweiser Budvar. We’ve always understood that sometimes revolution means staying the same in a changing world. And without altering a single thing about our unique taste, where we source our ingredients and how our beer is made and matured, we managed to deliver record beer volumes across the world – close to a million hectolitres of beer to 76 countries. All of it from right here, where it all began, in České Budějovice.

budvar tour prague

RECOGNISING OUR ROOTS

In a world where authenticity and honesty are sometimes hard to find, we redesigned our packaging to reflect our status as our country’s national beer. ‘Owned by the Czech Republic’, our cans and bottles now proclaim, letting the world know that we’re proudly independent and flying the flag for real Czech lager.

budvar tour prague

A WORK OF ART

When our lager’s this good, it’s vital that it’s served properly – and that ends with the glass. The thick shape keeps the lager cold for longer; the wide mouth releases the beautiful aroma of the foam. It’s the work of legendary Czech artist Rony Plesl, who drew inspiration from modernist 20th-century painter Josef Lada to create something that not only looks stunning, it ensures Budvar tastes the way the brewmaster intended.

BOOK A BREWERY VISIT

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Restaurant Budweiser Budvar

Ratings and reviews, location and contact.

We loved this place so much, we went twice. I don't know what happened to the people who complain on here about the service - ours was great both times. For you U.S. folk, don't discount this place because it says Budweiser. It's not the... same company. This is legit Czech beer and great Czech food, all in a fun setting with great food and great service. It's easy to walk to from Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square. This is a must-stop in Prague. More

Excellent service and very nice Czech food. Nice outdoor patio and the inside was good too. Good beer - real Budweiser

The food and beer was very good! Even though the portions are small, you can really take in the taste of legit Budweiser homemade European beer compared to what is sold in the United States. After you eat, go to the back of the restaurant... and you will find a brewer where they make the beer. It's also good for teens that are 18, so they can try there first taste of beer. More

Incredibly good food, specially for an airport restaurant. I had the duck with knedliky and I can say that it was delicious. Very good experience.

budvar tour prague

I ate dinner here while staying overnight next door at the Courtyard Marriott Airport Hotel. Restaurant Budweiser Budvar proved to be a nice alternative to Oleo Pazzo, the Courtyard's on-site restaurant featuring Mediterranean dishes. I wasn't impressed with Oleo Pazzo at the Istanbul Airport Courtyard... Hotel and I did not want a repeat experience, so i was keen on finding an alternative place to eat. The Restaurant Budweiser Budvar menu was more extensive than Oleo Pazzo's, featuring some Czech cuisine. I had the fried camembert wrapped in prosciutto over a bed of lettuce and grilled salmon with creamed spinach and parmesan risotto. I was very satisfied with the dinner, especially since I hadn't had anything to eat after traveling all day from Cracow. Service was fast and the waitress was attentive. She noticed right away when I needed another bottle of soda. Being able to pay by card is convenient if you've already run out of Czech crowns. I would recommend this restaurant, whether you're staying at the Courtyard or just arrived at PRG. More

budvar tour prague

The menu has several traditional Czech entres as well as strandard (soups, salads, European entres) options. Service was friendly and quick. You need to opay the cashier on your way out. Just remember what your table number is and the cashier can run up the... bill. Accepts credit cards as well as cash. Be sure to tip (Czech standard is 10%). More

I will start this review saying that Budvar has been my favorite beer for over 30 years. I first went to the brewery in the 90’s and it was truly amazing - before this restaurant even existed. My Dad who was in our group also... went to the brewery in early 2000 and had a great time. Well let me tell you this is no longer the same place. We went to Oktoberfest and then moved on to Prague with a planned stop at Budvar to share the brewery with 4 other family members who had never been here. After driving for hours we arrived at 5pm on Friday to be told the ENTIRE restaurant was booked for people on the tour in 3 huge busses. There was not one person in the place!! Are you kidding - completely empty and they wouldn’t even serve us one beer - even the bar was closed without a single person there We tried to ask for one beer and we would be on our way but we were rudely refused. In fact they said they were booked with “tours” all day Saturday too. Unacceptable - call this place a restaurant when they only care about catering to the tours. AVOID!! We went to Pilsner Urquel and were treated like kings - even with all the tours. Budvar clearly only cares about big money and tours without any regard for “former loyal customers” wanting to stop by for a beer. Such a shame. Pilsner Urquel is now our favorite Czech beer and brewery. More

We went there for an evening meal. The waiters speak limited English, and do a limited amount of cleaning (our table was dirty, and we had to specifically ask for basic cutlery). The food was good and fresh, but the portions were not overly generous... (and that's an understatement). On the upside, we could pay with card, and the terrace was nice. More

This is the place next to the brewery and is a must pre-or-post tour. I recommend drinking a lot, then maybe try a few local dishes, not the burger.

Awful food, place should be closed down. Overpriced for what you get. Avoid this place like the plague unless you only have drinks. Girl who served was pretty hot though :)

We went to this place for lunch while waiting at the airport for our flight ending our 3 week stay in Prague. The waitress brought the menus and we waited and waited for her to come back and take our order. We watched as new... customers arrived and got their order taken and then served. After 20 minutes when the arriving diners at the tables on either side of us had their orders take and we were left just sitting there, we got up and left. We ate at over 25 restaurants while in Prague. All had great, polite service. This restaurant experience was weird. More

God value with good food and service. Located in a small mall next to the Courtyard Hotel. English speaking as needed

Right across from Terminal 1. Started 9 days ago, with Budavar here on our Czech journey. Leaving tomorrow. Great spot to wind it up. Thanks Linda for the hospitality! Love your country. Mike

The restaurant is in the same building as the Courtyard Hotel and not at all far from the terminals. If you need to eat and have not gone through customs or security, this is the place to be. Since we had used up our Czech... crowns, we were very happy that they took credit cards. The food was excellent Czech food: hearty, tasty, large portions, and low prices. Service was efficient. We thoroughly enjoyed our last dinner in Prague. We should have checked out the breakfast options the next morning. More

I was here many times. But every time it was a good experience, just link for the first time. Fine dining, most important ! Cheap ! If you walk through Prague aiport, there is no way you get dinner or lunch for 10 USD for... one person. The only place where you can get that kind of service is this restaurant. And thankfully it's one of the few restaurant at the airport, with a pretty good food and wine. More

budvar tour prague

RESTAURANT BUDWEISER BUDVAR, Prague - RuzynE (Airport) - Restaurant Reviews, Photos & Phone Number - Tripadvisor

  • Service: 4.5
  • Atmosphere: 3.5

IMAGES

  1. How To Do The Budweiser Budvar Brewery Tour: All You Wanted To Know

    budvar tour prague

  2. How To Do The Budweiser Budvar Brewery Tour: All You Wanted To Know

    budvar tour prague

  3. Greetings From The Republic of Beer! Budweiser Budvar Brand Refresh

    budvar tour prague

  4. How To Do The Budweiser Budvar Brewery Tour: All You Wanted To Know

    budvar tour prague

  5. České Budějovice, Budvar Brewery

    budvar tour prague

  6. How To Do The Budweiser Budvar Brewery Tour: All You Wanted To Know

    budvar tour prague

VIDEO

  1. Budweiser Budvar Highjump 2012 (Official)

  2. Czechvar is Budvar? Or Budweiser? Let us know and tune in today!

  3. BUDVAR 33

  4. Budvar Dark Lager 4.7% (Gaz) @stoutsunday

  5. #budva

  6. České piva

COMMENTS

  1. Brewery Tours

    From 18 to 20 July 2024, the visitor center is closed due to the beer festival taking place on the premises of Budvar. Daily. in Czech. 14:00. in German. 14:20. in English. ... If a group that booked a tour is arriving late more than 15 minutes without prior notice, we reserve the right to reschedule or cancel the tour.

  2. Visit Us

    Regular tours run in Czech, English and German: WHEN YOU NEED TO BOOK. 1. Outside regular times: 2. For tours in Russian, French, Spanish & Italian: 3. Groups of more than 5 people* ... Please Enjoy Budvar Responsibly +420 387 705 347 | K. Světlé 512/4, 370 04 České Budějovice ©B.B.N.P 2024. Created by UNTOLD AGENCY

  3. Budweiser Brewery (Budejovicky Budvar)

    This original Budweiser beer was brewed here since 1785. As such there is only one "true" Budweiser brewery and it is here in the Czech Republic! The name copyrights were settled with Anheuser-Busch as discussed below. The tour of this brewery is quite interesting, as it differs from the usual U.S. brewery tours.

  4. The Brewery

    Budvar doesn't forget about small craft breweries. This is how I feel it. Something unforeseeable and incredible in this world. Thank you for offering your customers our beers as well, and for being the partner of the local beer festival Slánský tuplák." The Budějovický Budvar brewery was founded in 1895.

  5. Visit the Budvar brewery in Ceske Budejovice; home of the original

    Budvar Budweiser brewery tours . České Budějovice is the Czech Republic's most famous brewing town after Plzeň.The old German name for Budějovice is Budweis and beer under the name Budweiser is known and served across the world.. The Budvar Budweiser brewery is about 2km north of the historic centre of České Budějovice along Pražská ul, which was the old road to Prague.

  6. Budweiser Budvar Brewery Tour

    You can also order tours in advance for private groups of 5 or more or groups that need a tour in Russian, French, Spanish, or Italian. For reservations contact the Budweiser Budvar Visitor Centre: +420 387 705 347. [email protected]. Tour Price. 120 CZK. 180 CZK outside the opening hours.

  7. Book the Brewery Tour

    Budějovický Budvar, n. p. K. Světlé 512/4. 370 04 České Budějovice. +420 387 705 347. Come to see how beer is born - beer admired for quality all over the world.

  8. Homepage

    Spirit. In 1895, in an act of defiance, our forefathers founded their own brewery in České Budějovice (Budweis), creating an independent brewery for the Czech people, owned by Czech people. Today we are still the brewery of the Czech Republic with 10 million owners and quality controllers, brewing beer in exactly the same way we always have.

  9. How to do the Budweiser Budvar Brewery Tour: All you wanted to know

    From outside the main bus station of Ceske Budejovice at Mercury Mall, take the bus service number 5 and transfer to bus service number 2 outside of IGY mall. Alternatively, you can choose to simply take bus service number 2 from outside the post office near the old town.

  10. Czech National Brewery

    The Budweiser Budvar brewery was founded in 1895. The beer brewing tradition in České Budějovice (Budweis) however dates back to the 13th century. Brewery. Beers. DRAUGHt BUDVAR. Partnerships. Tours. Media. Work with us Contacts. EN. DE CZ. EN. DE CZ. NOVINKA. Budvar 33. LIMITKA. Budvar 33. Pale lager.

  11. Prague's Best Breweries

    The Czech Republic in general and also Prague itself is very famous for its high quality beer. There are giant beer brands like Pilsner Urquell, Staropramen and Budweiser Budvar, but there are also less known ones like local microbreweries Pivovar Národní or Loď Pivovar. If you want to enjoy the best beer like a local and also with the ...

  12. How Budweiser Budvar became the heart of Czech beer culture

    From Prague, trains run at least once an hour to České Budějovice. The journey takes two hours and costs from €13 each way. ... Tours of Budweiser Budvar's brewery are available throughout ...

  13. Prague: Beer Boat Tour

    8 Olomouc. 9 Ostrava. 10 Hřensko. 11 Znojmo. 12 Mlada Boleslav. 13 Trebic. Cruise through the center of Prague on a small group boat experience. Enjoy unlimited premium Czech Budvar beer, 7 bottles of Prosecco, or 15 liters of cider as you take in the views from the water.

  14. Prague-Czech-Republic Tour

    Let's book this tour with me and spend 1 day outside of Prague! Itinerary. Pick-up at the hotel Trip to Cesky Krumlov (approx. 2, 5h) Walking city tour (approx. 1, 5h) Lunch at the local restaurant (approx. 1h) Trip to Budvar Brewery (approx. 0, 5h) Brewery tour (approx. 1h) Trip back to Prague (approx. 2h) P. S. I am flexible - let me know ...

  15. Visit the Budweiser Budvar Brewery (Czech Republic) in 2024

    The Budweiser Budvar Brewery is in the city of České Budějovice, which is about 150 kilometres south of Prague. The brewery site is a couple of kilometres from the city centre, in a more industrial neighbourhood, but it's walkable or accessible by public transport. In July and August, there are two tours a day, but there's only one a day ...

  16. Visit Us

    DRINKING BUDVAR FRESH FROM THE TANKS IN OUR BREWERY CELLARS IS ONE OF THE GREATEST BEER EXPERIENCES IN THE WORLD. FIND OUT WHY. VISIT THE BREWERY. OPENING HOURS. Daily. 9 am - 5 pm. ... Regular tours run in Czech, English and German: WHEN YOU NEED TO BOOK. 1. Outside regular times: 2. For tours in Russian, French, Spanish & Italian: 3. Groups ...

  17. 8 Beers You Have To Try in Prague in 2024

    This beer is brewed by the Czech brewery Budějovický Budvar, located in the city of České Budějovice, that produced its first beer in 1985, according to its website. The brewery registered its brand under the name Budvar in 1930, and this name was used to export the 12° light lager beer.

  18. Czech Beer in Prague

    The most popular Czech beers are Pilsner Urquell, Staropramen and Budweiser Budvar, but hundreds of other lagers and speciality beers are produced by independent breweries, microbreweries and brewpubs all over Czechia. Beer is served almost everywhere in Prague, from small cafés and pubs to the opera houses. It is fresh, cheap and tastes terrific.

  19. Budweiser Budvar Brewery

    Budweiser Budvar ( Czech: Budějovický Budvar [ˈbuɟɛjovɪtskiː ˈbudvar]) is a brewery in the Czech city of České Budějovice ( German: Budweis ), best known for its original Budweiser or Budweiser Budvar pale lager brewed using artesian water, Moravian barley and Saaz hops. [2] [3] Budweiser Budvar is the fourth largest beer producer in ...

  20. Budejovicky Budvar

    Budvar is the third largest Czech beer producer and the last state brewery. Almost a half of the Budejovicky Budvar production is exported into more than 50 countries of all the continents. In 2008, the yearly production of the house was 1 253 000 hectolitres. Since three companies had or have trademarks for the name "Budweiser", they have ...

  21. 7 Beautiful Prague River Cruise Options • Dream Plan Experience

    Choose one: unlimited Czech Budvar beer, 7 bottles of Prosecco, or 15L of cider ; Bartender/Captain; Best Boat Tour Prague: Things to Know Before Booking. Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund; Don't forget to bring your ID; If choosing the Prosecco or cider option, contact the local partner prior to your trip or put it into the ...

  22. Brewery

    THE BUDWEISER BUDVAR BREWERY IS BORN. In 1895, the Czech Republic was still part of Austria-Hungary. České Budějovice was referred to by the German name 'Budweis', and the reputation of our beer 'Budweis-er' was known across the world. But the citizens of Budweis were divided; the Czech brewers weren't happy brewing under a German ...

  23. RESTAURANT BUDWEISER BUDVAR, Prague

    Restaurant Budweiser Budvar, Prague: See 32 unbiased reviews of Restaurant Budweiser Budvar, rated 4 of 5 on Tripadvisor and ranked #2,371 of 5,823 restaurants in Prague. ... care about catering to the tours. AVOID!! We went to Pilsner Urquel and were treated like kings - even with all the tours. Budvar clearly only cares about big money and ...