Is the Strahov Monastery Brewery Beer Tasting Worth It?
Is the Strahov Monastery brewery worth the trip? Yes, it is a must-visit for craft beer lovers in Prague. You will find high-quality St. Norbert beers in a stunning 17th-century setting. If you prefer a quieter or cheaper local pub, consider visiting Lokál in the Old Town instead. This review provides essential Strahov Monastery brewery beer tasting info to help you plan your visit.
What to Expect at the Strahov Brewery
The Klášterní pivovar Strahov sits just across from the famous library. Monks have brewed beer on this site since the 13th century. The current brewery offers a rustic and warm atmosphere. You will see large copper brewing tuns right in the dining room. It feels historic but also very lively.
There are two main areas to sit and enjoy a drink. The brewery taproom is cozy and traditional. Across the courtyard, the St. Norbert restaurant offers more space and a full food menu. Both areas serve the same excellent beer. It is a great place to relax after exploring the Strahov Monastery and Library nearby.
The brewery is located high on a hill near the Prague Castle complex. This location provides a great break from the heavy crowds of the castle. You can expect a mix of locals and tourists. The staff is used to international visitors and usually speaks good English.
Strahov Monastery brewery beer tasting info and prices
The main draw here is the St. Norbert beer. They usually offer three permanent beers and several seasonal specials. You can find an Amber Lager, a Dark Lager, and an IPA. The seasonal beers change throughout the year, like the popular Easter or Christmas brews.
For the best experience, ask for a tasting flight. This allows you to try small pours of several different styles. In 2026, prices for a standard 0.4L beer range from 75 to 110 CZK. This is higher than a standard Czech pub but fair for craft quality. A full tasting set usually costs around 250 to 300 CZK.
Best for: Craft beer enthusiasts and those who enjoy historic settings. It is perfect for a mid-afternoon break. The IPA is particularly well-regarded by international visitors.
The Pros and Cons of Visiting
Every popular spot has its ups and downs. The beer quality here is consistently higher than many mass-produced Czech lagers. However, the popularity of the site means it can get very busy. Here is a quick look at what to expect.
- Pros: Excellent craft beer, historic atmosphere, and great food.
- Cons: Higher prices than average, can be crowded, and service is sometimes slow.
The food is also a major highlight. You can try traditional Czech dishes like beef goulash or roasted pork knee. These dishes pair perfectly with the dark lager. Just keep in mind that tables fill up quickly during lunch and dinner hours.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
Getting to the brewery requires a bit of an uphill walk. The easiest way is to take Tram 22 to the Pohořelec stop. From there, it is a short, flat walk to the monastery gates. This tram line also connects to other Prague Castle complex attractions for easy sightseeing.
To avoid the biggest crowds, visit on a weekday afternoon. Most tour groups arrive between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM. If you arrive around 3:00 PM, you will likely find a seat easily. The brewery is open daily from 10:00 AM until 10:00 PM.
If you plan to see the library as well, check the how to buy tickets for Strahov Library halls guide. The library has separate hours and often closes for a lunch break. Planning your beer tasting for that time is a smart move.
Final Verdict: Is It Worth the Hike?
Verdict: The Strahov Monastery brewery is absolutely worth the visit. The combination of history and high-quality craft beer is unique in Prague. While it is pricier than a basement pub, the experience justifies the cost. It is one of the best places to visit in Prague for a drink.
Skip if: You are on a very tight budget or hate touristy areas. If you want a 40 CZK Pilsner, this is not the place for you. You should also skip it if you prefer quiet, modern cocktail bars over rustic pubs.
Alternative: For a more local and affordable experience, try Břevnov Monastery Brewery. It is further from the center but offers a similar monastic brewing tradition. You can also find official city info at Prague.eu for more brewery tours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for the Strahov Monastery brewery?
Reservations are not required for small groups during the day. However, if you plan to eat dinner with a group of four or more, booking a table is highly recommended. The restaurant side fills up much faster than the taproom area.
What is the best beer to try at Strahov?
The St. Norbert Amber Lager is the most traditional choice and very balanced. If you like bold flavors, their IPA is widely considered one of the best in the Czech Republic. Seasonal beers are also worth trying for something unique.
Is the brewery accessible for people with limited mobility?
The brewery courtyard is paved with cobblestones, which can be bumpy. The main taproom and restaurant are on the ground floor with minimal steps. Taking the tram to Pohořelec avoids the steep climb from the Malá Strana district.
The Strahov Monastery brewery offers a perfect blend of Czech tradition and modern craft brewing. It is a rewarding stop after a long day of sightseeing. Make sure to try the tasting flight to experience the full range of St. Norbert beers. Enjoy your time in Prague and drink responsibly!
Official resources
Use these sources for official schedules, tickets, routes, and updates.
- Prague.eu — Official city tourism portal; unverified.
- Praha.eu — Official municipal government portal; unverified.
- Visit Czechia — National tourism board; unverified.
- UNESCO World Heritage Centre — Official UNESCO heritage listing; unverified.
- Prague Castle — Official landmark domain; unverified.
