Czech Beer

The Czechs drink more beer per head than any nation on earth, and for good reason: this is the birthplace of pilsner, the crisp golden lager invented in Plzen in 1842 that conquered the world. From Pilsner Urquell and Budvar to countless local brews, poured cold with a thick creamy head in traditional pubs, Czech beer is a national treasure and a way of life.

What you actually see

• Pilsner - the crisp golden lager born in Plzen, the original pilsner.
• The traditional pub - the hospoda where beer is poured and life happens.
• The thick head - the creamy foam head the Czech pour is known for.
• The breweries - Pilsner Urquell in Plzen and Budvar in Ceske Budejovice.

When to go

Year-round; a pint any time in a traditional pub, and beer gardens are lovely in summer. The brewery tours in Plzen and Ceske Budejovice are a highlight for beer lovers.

Honest expectations

It is cheap, excellent and central to Czech life, so a pub visit is essential. The best is the fresh tank beer in traditional pubs rather than bottled. Prague's most touristy pubs charge more for a lesser experience than a neighbourhood hospoda.

Nearby

Plzen and Ceske Budejovice have the famous breweries; pubs across every Czech town serve the pint.