3h Krumlov Beer Tour: Brewery Excursion, Pubs, Beer & Food

A Full-Flavored Look at the Český Krumlov Beer Tour

When we think of Český Krumlov, most of us picture fairy-tale castles, winding cobblestone streets, and a kaleidoscope of history. But one of the hidden gems of this charming town is its long-standing brewing tradition — a story that’s still alive today. The 3-hour Krumlov Beer Tour is a guided journey into this liquid history, combining a brewery tour, pub tastings, and local food, all tailored for those 18 and older who want to experience Czech beer culture firsthand.

This experience, led by knowledgeable guides like Marek, offers a delightful mix of history, craftsmanship, and social fun. The tour’s highlights include exploring both a historic and a modern brewery, sampling Czech mini-brewery beers, and enjoying authentic pub snacks like pickled sausages or cheese. All this for a reasonable price makes it a standout option for beer lovers and curious travelers alike.

Two things we particularly appreciate are the opportunity to see both the old and new brewing facilities and the chance to sample craft beers from local mini-breweries. These details give you a real sense of Czech brewing evolution, from medieval monasteries to contemporary microbreweries.

A possible consideration is that the tour lasts only three hours, so if you’re a serious beer connoisseur, you might wish for a longer tasting experience. Still, for most visitors, this is enough to get a taste of Krumlov’s brewing scene without feeling rushed.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want an authentic, educational, and tasty introduction to Czech beer and pub culture, especially those interested in history, craftsmanship, or simply enjoying a social experience with local flavors.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Brewery Experience: Visit both historic and modern breweries to understand brewing traditions.
• Craft Beer Sampling: Taste up to four different beers from Czech mini-breweries, showcasing regional diversity.
• Food & Beer Pairing: Enjoy traditional Czech pub snacks like pickled sausages or cheese, enhancing the tasting experience.
• Historical Insights: Learn about the evolution of brewing rights, monasteries’ influence, and notable breweries like the Prelate and the Egon Schiele Art Center site.
• Local Culture: Experience the lively pub atmosphere where beer is more than a drink — it’s part of community life.
• Educational and Fun: Guided by friendly, knowledgeable guides, you’ll gain insights into the brewing process and local agriculture of hops and barley.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Itinerary

The tour begins at one of two convenient locations in Český Krumlov: the Infocentrum at náměstí Svornosti or a traditional village with a crafts market. This flexibility helps if you’re arriving from different parts of town. The guide, often Marek, greets the group with enthusiasm, setting a friendly tone for the next three hours.

From there, the tour takes you through a scenic journey. A guided walk around the historic part of town includes stops at former breweries and notable sites like the castle courtyard, where beer brewing was once tied to royalty and monastery influence.

Brewery Visits and Tasting

The heart of the tour is the inside look at breweries, where you can see both the old, traditional brewing equipment and the contemporary brewhouse. This dual exposure helps you appreciate how brewing has evolved while respecting tradition. You’ll see fermentation and maturation basements — the dark, cool spaces where beer matures, an experience that makes you appreciate the patience and craftsmanship behind each pint.

Of course, the tasting is a highlight. Expect to sample a local “Krumlov” beer, which stands as a testament to the town’s brewing heritage. The guide will explain the brewing process and what makes each beer unique, from crisp lagers to hoppier styles. Many reviewers have praised this part, with one noting, “Érdekes, tartalmas, az idegenvezet hozzáért, kedves,” meaning the guide was knowledgeable and friendly, which enhances the tasting experience.

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Exploring Krumlov’s Beer History

As you walk through historic streets, your guide shares stories about how brewing rights were historically a contested matter, involving monasteries, local nobility, and the church. You might visit sites like the Clarist Order Brewery, which has been hidden away for centuries, or the Manorial Brewery in the castle courtyard, dating back to before the 16th century.

The Prelate Brewery established in 1596 also figures prominently in local lore, marking the importance of ecclesiastical influence over brewing rights. Today, only the original brewery at Port 1560 remains active, where you can taste authentic bottom-fermented beer, adding a real historical flavor to your visit.

Pub Visits and Food Pairings

No Czech beer experience is complete without pub snacks, and the tour includes a generous tasting of pickled sausages (“Utopenci”) or pickled cheese (“Nakládaný Hermelín”). These spicy, marinated delicacies are not just snacks but a part of Czech pub culture where beer and food go hand in hand. The lively pub stops offer a glimpse into the social fabric of Czech life, where locals gather not just for drinks but for community and conversation.

The Surrounding Landscape & Additional Stops

The tour also takes you to scenic viewpoints and areas where hops and barley are cultivated, such as Kvítkv Dvr. These spots provide context about the ingredients that go into Czech beers, emphasizing the connection between the land and the brews.

Practical Details and Value

The price includes the brewery tour, tastings of local and craft beers, entrance to both breweries, and the food pairing — a fair deal considering the depth of experience and the small-group setting. The tour lasts about three hours, making it doable even for those with a tight schedule.

The group size is kept small or private, which means you get personalized attention and the chance to ask plenty of questions. The guides are licensed and fluent in multiple languages, including English, Czech, and Russian, giving you options for your preferred language.

One potential downside is that the tour is not suitable for children under 18 or those with mobility challenges, as it involves walking through historic sites and brewery facilities. However, for adults interested in beer, history, and culture, the experience offers genuine value.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a beer enthusiast interested in understanding Czech brewing traditions, this tour provides a well-rounded, engaging look at local history and craft. It’s also perfect for travelers who want a taste of Český Krumlov’s social life and regional flavors without a long commitment.

History buffs will appreciate the stories about monasteries, breweries, and brewing rights, while food lovers will enjoy the authentic pub snacks and the chance to taste multiple regional beers.

Finally, those seeking a more interactive, small-group experience will find this tour both fun and informative. It’s especially suited for curious travelers who enjoy learning as they taste and who appreciate a good story behind their drink.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
Since the tour is 18+ and involves multiple beer tastings, it isn’t designed for non-drinkers. However, you could potentially enjoy the historical and cultural aspects without participating in the tastings if you discuss options with the guide beforehand.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately three hours, including brewery visits, pub stops, and tasting sessions.

Are there food options included?
Yes, you’ll get to enjoy authentic Czech pub snacks like pickled sausages or cheese, which pair perfectly with the beers.

Can I join the tour if I only speak English or Russian?
Absolutely. The guides are fluent in Czech, English, and Russian, and the tour can be tailored to your preferred language.

What are the starting points?
You can start at either the Infocentrum on náměstí Svornosti or a traditional village with an arts & crafts market, providing flexibility for your plans.

Is transportation provided?
No, transportation is not included, so you’ll need to make your own way to and from the meeting points.

Final Thoughts

This 3-hour Krumlov Beer Tour offers more than just tastings — it’s a taste of Czech history, culture, and community. You’ll see the full spectrum of brewing, from medieval monasteries to modern micro-breweries, all set against the picturesque backdrop of Český Krumlov’s streets and castles.

If you love beer and want an authentic experience that combines history, social life, and local flavor, this tour hits the mark. It’s particularly good for those who enjoy learning, tasting, and exploring small-town Czech life in an intimate setting.

While it’s not a comprehensive beer pilgrimage for die-hard connoisseurs, it’s a well-balanced, enjoyable way to deepen your appreciation for Czech brewing and meet fellow travelers. For a relaxed, friendly, and insightful experience, this tour is a genuine winner.

You can check availability for your dates here: