Why Explore Secret Microbreweries in Plzeň?

Plzeň is the historical birthplace of Pilsner beer. This heritage makes it a top destination for travelers. While the big names are impressive, small breweries offer variety. You can taste experimental IPAs and rich stouts. These venues often have a cozy, community atmosphere. They are perfect for meeting local residents. Exploring these spots allows you to see different city districts.

The craft beer movement is growing fast in the Plzeň Region. Local brewers take pride in their small-batch production. They use high-quality ingredients from nearby farms. You will notice the difference in every sip. Many of these breweries also serve excellent food. You can find more non-touristy restaurants in Plzeň that brew their own beer. This adds a delicious layer to your travel experience.

Visiting smaller spots is also more sustainable. It supports local entrepreneurs and families. You avoid the largest crowds found in the city center. Many of these breweries are located in unique buildings. You might find one in an old mill or a former power plant. These settings provide great photo opportunities. They tell a story of the city's industrial past and creative future.

10 Best Secret Microbreweries in Plzeň

Here are the top picks for your craft beer adventure. These locations are vetted for quality and atmosphere. Each offers something distinct for every palate. Use this list to plan your route through the city.

• Best overall: Purkmistr
• Best for modern hops: Raven
• Best for food: Beer Factory
• Best for scenery: Kalikovar

1. Name: Purkmistr Type: Brewery and Spa Why go: It offers a complete beer experience with a famous beer spa. Best for: Relaxation and traditional lagers. Where: Černice district. Time: 2-4 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Take trolleybus 13 to the Generála Lišky stop. Tip: Book Purkmistr beer tastings and spa treatments in advance.
2. Name: Raven Pub City Type: Modern Craft Brewery Why go: They specialize in IPAs, APAs, and experimental fruit beers. Best for: Hop-forward beer fans. Where: Bolevec (Brewery) and City Center (Pub). Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: The city center pub is walking distance from the main square. Tip: Check their seasonal tap list for limited edition brews.
3. Name: Beer Factory Type: Industrial Microbrewery Why go: You can watch the brewing process through glass walls while you eat. Best for: Dinner with a view of the tanks. Where: City Center. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Located near the Great Synagogue. Tip: Try their signature "Nevlastní syn" (Step-son) lager.
4. Name: Pivovar Proud Type: Experimental Brewery Why go: It is located in a former power plant at the edge of the Urquell complex. Best for: Trying non-traditional Czech beer styles. Where: Near the confluence of Radbuza and Mže. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: A short walk from the main brewery gates. Tip: Look for their low-alcohol beers that don't sacrifice flavor.
5. Name: Kalikovar Type: Riverside Brewery Why go: It sits in a beautifully restored historic mill by the river. Best for: Summer afternoons on the terrace. Where: Radbuza riverside. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Budget-friendly. Getting there: A 10-minute walk from the city center. Tip: Pair your beer with their traditional pickled cheese (nakládaný hermelín).
6. Name: U Pašáka Type: Traditional Brewpub Why go: This spot feels like a step back in time with its classic decor. Best for: Authentic local atmosphere. Where: Near the city center. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Budget-friendly. Getting there: Easily reached by foot from Republic Square. Tip: This is one of the best craft beer bars in Plzeň besides Urquell for classic styles.
7. Name: Pivovar Groll Type: Historical Brewery Why go: Named after the creator of Pilsner beer, it uses traditional open-vat fermentation. Best for: History buffs. Where: Near the Patton Memorial. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Walk towards the river from the city center. Tip: Try the "Lotr" beer, which is their most famous brew.
8. Name: Radobyčický Pivovar Type: Village Microbrewery Why go: It offers a peaceful escape from the urban hustle. Best for: A quiet afternoon in a garden setting. Where: Radobyčice district. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Budget-friendly. Getting there: Take bus 32 from the city center. Tip: Combine this with a walk in the nearby countryside.
9. Name: Pivovar Modrá Hvězda Type: Day Trip Brewery Why go: Located just outside Plzeň, it is famous for award-winning recipes. Best for: A half-day excursion. Where: Dobřany. Time: 3-4 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Take a 15-minute train ride from Plzeň main station. Tip: Their dark lager is often cited as one of the best in the country.
10. Name: Pivovar Bizon Type: Quirky Craft Spot Why go: They are known for creative names and bold, unusual flavors. Best for: Adventurous drinkers. Where: Čižice (south of Plzeň). Time: 3 hours. Cost: Budget-friendly. Getting there: Best reached by car or a local bus. Tip: Check out the Radyne Castle ruins nearby before your visit.

Essential Tips for Your Plzeň Beer Tour

Planning a beer tour requires some local knowledge. Most microbreweries open in the late afternoon on weekdays. They usually have longer hours on weekends. It is wise to check their social media pages for updates. Some spots might be closed for private events. You can also consult the Visit Plzeň website for current events.

Reservations are highly recommended for groups. These small venues fill up quickly on Friday nights. If you plan to visit multiple spots, use public transport. The city has an excellent network of trams and buses. You can buy tickets using a contactless card on the vehicle. This is safer than driving after a few pints. Always stay hydrated and eat between stops.

Don't forget to explore the city's other hidden gems. You might find a brewery near the Plzeň historical underground. This area is full of old cellars and tunnels. It shows how beer was stored in the past. Combining history with modern tasting makes for a great day. Always respect the local residents when walking through residential districts.

Planning Your Craft Beer Itinerary

Start your day in the city center for convenience. Visit Beer Factory or Groll for lunch and your first beer. Afterward, take a short trip to the Bolevec area. You can enjoy the Bolevec ponds nature trails for a break. Then, visit the Raven Brewery for some modern craft styles. This balances activity with relaxation.

In the evening, head south to the Černice district. Purkmistr is the perfect place to end your tour. You can have a hearty dinner and even stay overnight. This avoids the need for late-night travel. Many of these breweries are close to other attractions. For example, some are near the Pilsner Urquell Brewery. This allows you to compare industrial and craft methods easily.

Always check the weather before you head out. Some breweries have beautiful outdoor gardens. These are best enjoyed on sunny days. If it rains, focus on the indoor brewpubs in the center. Most places accept credit cards, but carry some cash. Smaller village spots might prefer Czech Koruna. Enjoy the variety that these secret microbreweries in Plzeň offer to every visitor.