Why Visit Authentic Local Pubs in Český Krumlov

The pub culture in South Bohemia is very special. It is not just about drinking beer. It is a social ritual for locals and visitors. You will find cozy rooms with thick stone walls. Many pubs have remained unchanged for decades. This makes them feel very authentic and welcoming.

The town is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Because of this, many pubs are located in historic landmarks. You might drink in an old prison or a former pharmacy. This adds a layer of history to your evening. It is a great way to experience the local heritage. You can learn more about the area from the Visit Czechia portal.

The beer quality here is world-class. Most pubs serve fresh lager from nearby breweries. Prices are also very reasonable compared to other European cities. You can spend a whole evening without breaking the bank. It is the perfect way to relax after sightseeing.

Top 10 Authentic Local Pubs in Český Krumlov

Finding the right spot can be tricky in a tourist town. Some places are better than others for local vibes. We have selected ten spots that offer a true Bohemian experience. These pubs are known for their quality and atmosphere. Here are our top picks for your visit.

• Best overall: Hospoda Na Louži
• Best for history: Krčma v Šatlavské ulici
• Best for families: Hostinec Depo
• Best budget: U Bejka

1. Name: Hospoda Na Louži Type: Iconic sight/Pub Why go: This is the most famous pub in town. It has a classic 1920s atmosphere. The walls are covered with old beer signs. Best for: Traditional vibes and local beer. Where: Kájovská street, near the main square. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Low to Moderate. Getting there: A short walk from the Town Hall. Tip: Try the Eggenberg beer brewed right in town.
2. Name: Krčma v Šatlavské ulici Type: Unique local experience Why go: This pub is located in an old medieval prison. They cook meat over an open fire in the middle of the room. It feels like stepping back in time. Best for: Meat lovers and history buffs. Where: Šatlavská street in the Old Town. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Walk down the narrow Latrán district hidden alleys to find it. Tip: Reservations are essential as it fills up fast.
3. Name: Hostinec Depo Type: Viewpoint/Nature pub Why go: It is located right next to the castle gardens. The pub has a large terrace overlooking the park. It is modern but still feels very local. Best for: Large groups and families. Where: Near the Minorite Monastery hidden gardens. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Follow the path from the castle towards the park. Tip: Their tank beer is exceptionally fresh and crisp.
4. Name: Pivovar Historický (Eggenberg) Type: Brewery/Museum Why go: This is the historic brewery of the town. You can drink beer exactly where it is made. The dining hall is massive and impressive. Best for: Beer enthusiasts. Where: Latrán district. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Walk across the bridge from the Old Town. Tip: Check if they are offering brewery tours during your visit.
5. Name: Cikánská Jizba Type: Neighborhood experience Why go: This is a small, family-run Gypsy tavern. It offers a very different vibe from the main tourist spots. The food is home-cooked and very hearty. Best for: A unique cultural experience. Where: Hradební street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Low. Getting there: It is tucked away in a quiet side street. Tip: Sometimes they have live traditional music on weekends.
6. Name: Apotheka Cafe Bar Type: Indoor/Atmosphere Why go: It is set in an old pharmacy. The decor includes old medicine bottles and dark wood. They serve great local beer and creative cocktails. Best for: A cozy evening drink. Where: Latrán street. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Located on the main street leading to the castle. Tip: It is one of the best quiet cafes off the beaten path during the day.
7. Name: Hostinec U dwau Maryí Type: Historic experience Why go: This pub is in a house from the 15th century. They serve "Old Bohemian" food that you won't find elsewhere. The terrace sits right on the river bank. Best for: River views and historic recipes. Where: Parkán street. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Walk along the river in the Old Town. Tip: Order the "Feast" to try a bit of everything.
8. Name: U Bejka Type: Local favorite Why go: This is a no-frills pub popular with locals. It is famous for its generous portions of grilled meat. The prices are some of the best in town. Best for: Budget-conscious travelers. Where: Linecká street. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Low. Getting there: Walk south from the main square. Tip: This is a great place to meet residents of the town.
9. Name: Hostinec Na Ostrově Type: Viewpoint/River Why go: It is located on a small island in the river. You get a perfect view of the castle from your table. It is very peaceful and scenic. Best for: Scenic afternoon drinks. Where: On the island near the city center. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Cross the small wooden bridge near the center. Tip: It is a perfect spot for photos of the State Castle and Chateau Český Krumlov.
10. Name: Restaurace Don Julius Type: Central experience Why go: Located in the Hotel Zlatý Anděl on the main square. It has a very traditional interior with wood paneling. They serve excellent Budvar beer. Best for: Convenience and central location. Where: Main Square (Náměstí Svornosti). Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: You cannot miss it in the center of town. Tip: Sit near the window to watch the town square life.

What to Order at a Traditional Czech Pub

Knowing what to order makes the experience better. Most authentic local pubs Český Krumlov features will have a similar menu. Beer is the primary drink here. You should try a "světlý ležák," which is a pale lager. It is the most common type of beer in the region.

If you are hungry, try some pub snacks. "Nakládaný hermelín" is a popular choice. It is a soft cheese marinated in oil and spices. It goes perfectly with a fresh beer. Another classic is "utopenec," which is a pickled sausage with onions. These snacks are light but very tasty.

For a full meal, look for roast pork or goulash. Czech food is often served with bread dumplings. These dishes are very filling and warm. You can find many of these recipes in secret places in Český Krumlov. Always ask the waiter for the daily special.

Practical Tips for Your Pub Crawl

Planning your evening will save you time. Many pubs are small and fill up quickly. It is smart to book a table for dinner. This is especially true during the summer months. Most staff speak basic English in the center. However, learning a few Czech words is always appreciated.

Cash is still king in many local spots. Some smaller pubs might not accept credit cards. Always carry some Czech Koruna with you. You can find ATMs near the main square. Tipping is usually around 10 percent for good service. You can just round up the bill to the nearest ten.

Be aware of the opening hours. Some pubs close earlier on weekdays. Most places are open from noon until late at night. Respect the locals who live in the town. Keep your noise levels down when walking between pubs. This helps keep the town peaceful for everyone.