Best European Beer Cities to Visit

If you're a beer enthusiast seeking the best European beer cities to visit, you're in for a treat. Europe boasts a rich brewing heritage, offering a diverse array of flavors, styles, and traditions that have shaped the global beer landscape. From the iconic pilsners of the Czech Republic to the innovative craft beers of Belgium, the continent's beer culture is as varied as its landscapes.

Prague, Czech Republic

Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, is often hailed as one of the best European beer cities to visit. The city is renowned for its deep-rooted brewing history, with beer being an integral part of Czech culture for centuries. The Czechs have perfected the art of brewing pale lagers, with Pilsner Urquell being the most famous example. This golden lager, first brewed in 1842, set the standard for the pilsner style worldwide. In Prague, you'll find numerous traditional pubs, known as "hospodas," where locals and visitors alike gather to enjoy a pint of Pilsner Urquell or other local brews. The city's beer culture is so significant that the average Czech consumes more beer per capita than any other nation.

Brussels, Belgium

Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is another top contender among the best European beer cities to visit. Belgium's brewing tradition dates back to the Middle Ages, and the city of Brussels is at the heart of this rich heritage. Belgian beers are renowned for their diversity and complexity, with styles ranging from Trappist ales brewed by monks in abbeys to lambics fermented with wild yeast. One of the most iconic Belgian beers is Chimay, a Trappist ale brewed by the Chimay Brewery, which has been producing beer since 1862. Brussels is also home to a vibrant craft beer scene, with numerous bars and cafes offering an extensive selection of local brews. The city's beer culture is celebrated annually during the Belgian Beer Weekend, where visitors can sample a wide variety of Belgian beers and learn about the brewing process.

Munich, Germany

Munich, the capital of Bavaria in Germany, is synonymous with beer culture and is undoubtedly one of the best European beer cities to visit. The city is famous for its annual Oktoberfest, the world's largest beer festival, which attracts millions of visitors from around the globe. Munich's brewing history dates back to the 12th century, and the city is home to several historic breweries, including Hofbräuhaus, which was established in 1589. Munich is also known for its traditional beer halls, such as Augustiner Bräu, where patrons can enjoy a Maß (liter) of Märzen, a traditional amber lager. The city's beer culture is deeply intertwined with its history and traditions, making it a must-visit destination for beer lovers.

Did you know…?

The Czech Republic has the highest beer consumption per capita in the world, with the average Czech drinking over 140 liters of beer annually.