17 Europe’s Best Beer Destinations

Planning a trip around Europe and love beer? You’re in for a treat. Europe is home to some of the world’s best beer destinations, each offering something unique for every beer lover. From historic breweries to vibrant beer festivals, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re into traditional lagers or innovative craft brews, this list will guide you to the best places to enjoy a pint. Cheers to an unforgettable beer journey through Europe!

Prague, Czech Republic

Prague is renowned for its rich beer culture and is often considered the beer capital of the world. The city boasts an impressive array of pubs and breweries, where you can sample traditional Czech lagers like Pilsner Urquell. U Fleků, one of the oldest breweries in the world, has been serving beer since 1499. The local beer culture is deeply rooted in the city’s history and traditions. Visitors can also enjoy beer spas, where beer baths are said to have health benefits. Beer gardens in Prague provide a perfect setting for enjoying a pint with a view of the city’s stunning architecture.

Munich, Germany

Munich is synonymous with Oktoberfest, the world’s largest beer festival, attracting millions of visitors every year. The city is home to several historic beer halls, including the famous Hofbräuhaus. Bavarian beer, known for its quality and purity, is brewed according to the Reinheitsgebot (beer purity law) dating back to 1516. Munich’s beer gardens, such as the one in the Englischer Garten, offer a quintessential German experience. Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of beers, including Helles, Dunkel, and Weissbier. The city’s beer culture is a blend of tradition and celebration, making it a must-visit for beer enthusiasts.

Dublin, Ireland

Dublin is famed for its dark, creamy Guinness, which has been brewed at St. James’s Gate Brewery since 1759. The Guinness Storehouse offers a comprehensive tour that ends with a pint in the Gravity Bar, offering panoramic views of the city. Dublin’s pub culture is lively, with historic establishments like The Temple Bar drawing both locals and tourists. Irish craft beer is also on the rise, with many microbreweries offering innovative brews. The city’s beer festivals, such as the Alltech Craft Brews and Food Fair, showcase a variety of local and international beers. Dublin’s combination of historic and contemporary beer experiences makes it a top destination.

Brussels, Belgium

Brussels is the heart of Belgium’s rich beer tradition, home to a variety of beer styles including Trappist, lambic, and gueuze. The city’s Delirium Café holds the Guinness World Record for the most beers available, with over 2,000 different varieties. The annual Belgian Beer Weekend in Grand Place is a celebration of the country’s brewing heritage. Visitors can tour the Cantillon Brewery, a family-run operation since 1900 that specializes in traditional lambic beers. Brussels is also known for its beer museums, such as the Museum of the Belgian Brewers. The city’s vibrant beer scene offers something for every palate.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam is a hub for craft beer lovers, with numerous breweries and beer bars scattered throughout the city. The Heineken Experience is a popular attraction, offering insights into the brewing process and the history of one of the world’s most famous beers. Smaller breweries like Brouwerij ‘t IJ and De Prael offer unique, locally brewed beers in atmospheric settings. The city’s beer festivals, such as the Amsterdam Beer Festival, highlight a wide range of Dutch and international beers. Beer lovers can also enjoy canal-side pubs, perfect for a relaxing drink with a view. Amsterdam’s beer culture is diverse and ever-evolving, making it a dynamic destination.

Vienna, Austria

Vienna offers a blend of traditional and modern beer experiences, with a growing craft beer scene complementing its historic breweries. The city’s beer gardens, such as the Schweizerhaus in the Prater, are popular spots for enjoying a refreshing pint. Vienna’s breweries produce a variety of styles, from light lagers to dark malts. Ottakringer Brewery, one of the oldest in the city, offers tours and tastings. The Vienna Craft Beer Festival is an annual event that showcases the best of Austrian and international brews. Vienna’s beer culture is a reflection of its rich culinary heritage and innovative spirit.

Budapest, Hungary

Budapest has a burgeoning craft beer scene, with an increasing number of microbreweries and craft beer bars. The city’s ruin pubs, such as Szimpla Kert, offer a unique setting for enjoying a wide variety of local brews. The Budapest Beer Week is a major event, featuring a diverse range of beers from Hungarian and international breweries. Főzdefeszt, another popular beer festival, is dedicated to showcasing the best of Hungarian craft beer. The city’s historic thermal baths, like Széchenyi, occasionally host beer spa events. Budapest’s vibrant beer culture is an exciting blend of tradition and innovation.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen is renowned for its craft beer scene, led by innovative breweries like Mikkeller and To Øl. The city hosts the annual Copenhagen Beer Celebration, which attracts beer enthusiasts from around the world. Carlsberg, one of Denmark’s most famous beer brands, offers a fascinating brewery tour. The city’s beer bars and brewpubs, such as Fermentoren and WarPigs, offer a diverse range of local and international beers. Copenhagen’s beer gardens are perfect for enjoying a drink in a relaxed, outdoor setting. The city’s commitment to quality and creativity makes it a standout destination for beer lovers.

Berlin, Germany

Berlin’s beer culture is a blend of traditional German brewing and modern craft beer innovation. The Berlin Beer Week is a highlight, featuring events across the city and showcasing both local and international brewers. Visitors can explore historic breweries like Berliner Kindl Brauerei and modern craft breweries such as BRLO Brwhouse. The city’s beer gardens, like Prater Garten, are perfect for enjoying a cold beer in a lively atmosphere. Berlin’s diverse beer bars offer everything from traditional pilsners to experimental brews. The city’s dynamic and evolving beer scene makes it a top destination.

Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh has a thriving beer culture, with a mix of historic pubs and modern craft breweries. The Edinburgh Beer Factory and Stewart Brewing are well-known for their innovative beers. The city hosts the annual Edinburgh Craft Beer Festival, featuring a wide range of local and international brews. Edinburgh’s pub scene is rich with history, with many establishments dating back centuries. Visitors can enjoy a pint of traditional Scottish ale or explore the city’s growing selection of craft beers. The combination of old and new makes Edinburgh a compelling destination for beer enthusiasts.

Krakow, Poland

Krakow’s beer scene has seen significant growth in recent years, with an increasing number of craft breweries and beer bars. The city’s traditional beer halls offer a taste of Polish brewing history, while modern breweries like T.E.A. Time Brewpub showcase innovative styles. Krakow hosts several beer festivals, such as the Krakow Beer Week, which highlights local and international beers. The city’s vibrant nightlife and cultural heritage make it an exciting destination for beer lovers. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of Polish beers, from classic lagers to experimental brews. Krakow’s dynamic beer culture is continually evolving, offering something new for every visit.

Tallinn, Estonia

Tallinn has a growing craft beer scene, with a number of innovative breweries and beer bars. The city’s Põhjala Brewery is known for its experimental and high-quality beers. Tallinn Craft Beer Weekend is a major event, attracting beer enthusiasts from around the world. The city’s historic Old Town provides a charming backdrop for enjoying a wide range of local brews. Visitors can explore the Estonian Brewing Museum to learn about the country’s beer heritage. Tallinn’s vibrant and creative beer culture makes it a must-visit destination.

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona’s beer scene is a mix of traditional Spanish brewing and modern craft beer innovation. The city is home to several breweries, such as Edge Brewing and Garage Beer Co., known for their high-quality beers. Barcelona Beer Festival is a key event, featuring a wide range of local and international brews. The city’s beer bars and brewpubs offer a diverse selection of beers in unique settings. Visitors can enjoy a pint by the beach or in the city’s bustling neighborhoods. Barcelona’s dynamic beer culture is a testament to its creativity and passion for good beer.

Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon’s beer scene has been revitalized in recent years, with a growing number of craft breweries and beer bars. The city’s Dois Corvos and Musa are well-known for their innovative beers. Lisbon Beer Week is a major event, showcasing a wide range of local and international brews. The city’s historic neighborhoods provide a picturesque setting for enjoying a cold beer. Visitors can explore Lisbon’s rich beer heritage at the National Brewery Museum. Lisbon’s vibrant and evolving beer culture offers something for every beer enthusiast.

Stockholm, Sweden

Stockholm has a thriving craft beer scene, with many innovative breweries and beer bars. The city’s Omnipollo and Nya Carnegiebryggeriet are known for their high-quality and creative beers. Stockholm Beer and Whisky Festival is a major event, attracting beer enthusiasts from around the world. The city’s beer bars offer a diverse selection of local and international brews in stylish settings. Visitors can enjoy a pint by the waterfront or in the city’s trendy neighborhoods. Stockholm’s dynamic beer culture is continually evolving, making it a top destination for beer lovers.

Porto, Portugal

Porto has a growing craft beer scene, with a number of innovative breweries and beer bars. The city’s Catraio and Letraria are well-known for their high-quality beers. Porto Beer Festival is a key event, showcasing a wide range of local and international brews. The city’s historic neighborhoods provide a charming backdrop for enjoying a wide range of local brews. Visitors can explore the city’s beer heritage at the Brewpub and the Beer Museum. Porto’s vibrant and creative beer culture makes it a must-visit destination.

Thessaloniki, Greece

Thessaloniki has a burgeoning beer scene, with an increasing number of craft breweries and beer bars. The city’s Voreia Beer and Septem Microbrewery are known for their innovative and high-quality beers. Thessaloniki Beer Festival is a major event, attracting beer enthusiasts from around the world. The city’s historic neighborhoods provide a picturesque setting for enjoying a wide range of local brews. Visitors can explore the city’s rich beer heritage at the Beer Museum. Thessaloniki’s vibrant and evolving beer culture offers something for every beer enthusiast.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout

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