Europe is a mix of cultures, cuisines, and, of course, exceptional beers. Each country boasts its own brewing traditions, unique ingredients, and beloved local suds. But with all that variety, where do you start your European beer pilgrimage? The best beer in Europe may be hard to determine. That said, trying out a number of contenders mentioned here should really give you a tough time deciding.
In your next European trip, try to make it about the beer. But in case you’re wondering, here’s a brief history of this well-loved brew.
The origins of beer and its rise in Europe
Our journey begins not in the gleaming taprooms of today, but in the cradle of civilization, Mesopotamia, around 8,000 years ago. Evidence suggests early humans stumbled upon this fermented delight by accident. This is perhaps due to discarded grains sprouting in the warm sun.
Fast forward to 4,000 BCE, and the brewing tradition finds itself among the Sumerians of Mesopotamia, where beer wasn’t just a beverage, but a way of life. They even had a goddess dedicated to the craft, Ninkasi, whose famous hymn is the oldest-known beer recipe in the world. These early brews were thick and syrupy, far from the lagers we know today, but they fueled empires and inspired countless myths and legends.
As civilizations interacted and ideas flowed, beer’s journey continued. It crossed the Mediterranean, finding a home in Greece and Rome, where it was lauded for its social and medicinal properties. Meanwhile, in Central Europe, Celtic and Germanic tribes adopted their own brewing traditions, experimenting with diverse ingredients like fruits, honey, and herbs.
Around 1100 CE, a game-changer entered the scene: hops. This humble flower, native to Central Europe, revolutionized beer by adding bitterness, aroma, and improved preservation. With hops paving the way, lagers, cool-fermented beers known for their crispness and drinkability, began to dominate the scene. This versatile ingredient not only improved the taste and shelf life of beer but also paved the way for the development of lager styles, which quickly gained popularity in Central and Northern Europe.
Some of the best beers in Europe today
With countless breweries and brewing traditions spanning centuries, navigating the diverse world of European beer can feel like exploring a labyrinth. But fear not. This guide will raise a glass to some of the most popular beers on the continent, offering a taste of the unique flavors and rich heritage that await your palate.
Prague, Czech Republic
Prague, the captivating capital of the Czech Republic, boasts a rich brewing heritage dating back centuries. The city is best known as the birthplace of Pilsner, a crisp, golden lager that revolutionized the world of beer brewing in 1842. This iconic style, born from the ingenuity of local brewer Josef Groll, remains the heart and soul of Prague’s beer scene, celebrated in traditional pubs and modern microbreweries alike.
Prague’s Bar List
Pilsner: The undisputed king of Prague’s beers, the classic Pilsner is distinguished by its pale color, hoppy aroma, and refreshing bitterness. Look for the original at U Fleků or try innovative twists at Lokál.
Dark Lagers: Beyond Pilsner, Czech brewers excel in crafting flavorful dark lagers like Flekovské 13°, known for its rich maltiness and pronounced caramel notes.
Smoked Beers: For a unique experience, sample a Rauchbier, a style infused with the smoky aroma of beechwood-smoked malt. Visit the historic U Pinkasů for their signature smoky lager.
Czech Specialities: Don’t miss out on Czech brewing tradition with beers like Ležák, a well-balanced pale lager, or Světlý Ležák, a lighter version of the classic Pilsner.
Pubs to Visit in Prague
U Fleků: Experience the history and atmosphere of the world’s oldest continuously operating pub, savoring their signature Flekovské 13° dark lager.
Lokál: Discover the modern face of Czech brewing with Lokál’s creative takes on Pilsner and other styles, paired with delicious Czech cuisine.
Pivovarská restaurace U Pinkasů: Journey back in time at this historic pub, home to the iconic smoky lager and a traditional atmosphere.
Staropražský pivovar: Sample the beers of one of Prague’s oldest breweries, offering a range of Pilsners, dark lagers, and seasonal specialties.
Beer Geek Bar: For craft beer enthusiasts, Beer Geek Bar boasts an extensive selection of local and international brews, perfect for discovering hidden gems.
Bruges, Belgium
Bruges, Belgium, with its fairytale canals, cobbled streets, and chocolate shops galore, might seem all about sweet delights. However, it also has a brewing tradition. Beermaking in Bruges dates back to the 13th century, when monasteries dominated the craft. Today, the city still bears the legacy of these brewing monks, with ancient recipes and traditions woven into its modern beer scene. From iconic ales like Tripel and Dubbel to innovative craft brews, Bruges offers a tapestry of flavors guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds.
Bruges’ Bar List
Tripel: The crown jewel of Bruges, Tripel is a strong, golden ale known for its complex fruity esters and spicy notes. Don’t miss the classic Westvleteren XII, brewed by Trappist monks, or try contemporary takes at De Halve Maan Brewery.
Dubbel: This dark ale balances sweetness and roastiness, offering a rich and malty experience. Seek out the famous Chimay Red or sample local variations at ‘t Brugs Bierhuis.
Blonde Ales: Light and refreshing, Bruges’ blonde ales showcase delicate hop aromatics and subtle citrus notes. Sip on a Zot from De Halve Maan or explore a range of options at Huisbrouwerij De Halve Maan.
Flanders Red: For a unique taste, try a Flanders Red, a sour ale matured in oak barrels. Expect tartness, fruity notes, and a surprising complexity. De Struise Brouwers and Brouwerij Vanuxeem are good places to start your sour adventure.
Pubs to Visit in Bruges
De Halve Maan: Soak in the history and atmosphere of this family-run brewery, housed in a 15th-century building. Tour the impressive copper kettles and sip on a Zot on their rooftop terrace overlooking the Markt.
‘t Brugs Bierhuis: This haven for beer lovers houses over 300 Belgian beers, offering a mind-boggling selection of traditional and modern styles. Sample a flight or ask their knowledgeable staff for recommendations.
Brouwerij De Molen: For the adventurous palate, venture outside the city center to this innovative brewery known for its bold, barrel-aged sour beers and strong imperial stouts.
Het Zotteken: Tucked away in a charming alley, this cozy pub offers a rotating selection of local and international craft beers on tap, perfect for discovering hidden gems.
Café Vlier: This vibrant café boasts a beautiful canal-side terrace and a curated selection of Belgian beers, including lesser-known regional brews. Pair your pint with some delicious Belgian cheese or charcuterie.
Munich, Germany
Munich, with its sprawling beer halls, oompah bands, and lederhosen-clad revelers, isn’t just a city – it’s a Bavarian ode to beer. Every sip here is a toast to centuries of brewing tradition, culminating in a vibrant scene that flows through Bierkellers, microbreweries, and the legendary Oktoberfest. Munich offers a spectrum of suds, from dark Dunkels to strong Doppelbocks, each a testament to the city’s rich brewing heritage.
Munich’s Bar List
Helles: The undisputed king of Munich beers, Helles is distinguished by its golden color, subtle hop aroma, and refreshingly balanced flavor. Raise a stein at the legendary Hofbräuhaus or try modern interpretations at Augustiner Keller.
Dunkel: For a darker experience, delve into Munich’s Dunkels, rich brown lagers with hints of caramel and roasted malt. Visit the historic Franziskaner Keller or the cozy Augustiner Stammhaus for a taste of tradition.
Doppelbock: Munich’s strong side comes out in their Doppelbocks, malty monsters with robust flavors and alcohol content to match. Challenge yourself at the Andechser Doppelbockfest or sample a smooth Ayinger Celebrator Doppelbock.
Weissbier: Don’t miss the unique flavors of Bavarian Weissbier, a wheat beer known for its cloudy appearance, pronounced clove and banana notes, and refreshing tartness. Sip on a classic Schneider Weisse or try fruity variations at the Schneider Bräuhaus.
Pubs to Visit in Munich
Hofbräuhaus: No Munich beer pilgrimage is complete without a visit to this 400-year-old behemoth. Immerse yourself in the boisterous atmosphere, raise a liter of Hofbräu München Helles, and sway to the oompah tunes.
Augustiner Keller: This centuries-old cellar offers a more intimate experience, with traditional wooden benches and a focus on their house Helles and Dunkel beers. Pair your pint with hearty Bavarian fare like sausages and pretzels.
Tap Haus: For a modern twist, Tap Haus boasts a rotating selection of local and international craft beers, perfect for discovering hidden gems and innovative brews.
Weisses Bräuhaus: Embrace the Weissbier culture at this historic brewery, enjoying their signature Schneider Weisse in their charming beer garden.
SalvatorKeller: Feeling brave? Head to SalvatorKeller for their legendary Doppelbock, the mighty Ayinger Celebrator, and prepare for a warming, malty experience.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam, the city of canals, bicycles, and, well, let’s be honest, something else, holds a hidden gem for adventurous souls: a thriving craft beer scene bubbling just beneath the surface. While Dutch lagers hold a place of honor, the city now pulsates with IPAs bursting with citrus. It also teems with all sorts of stouts and sour beers tangy enough to awaken your inner senses. This is a land where tradition meets experimentation, where craft reigns supreme, and where every sip is a journey into the unexpected.
Amsterdam’s Bar List
Dutch Lagers: Pay homage to Dutch brewing heritage with a crisp Amstel or Heineken, but don’t stop there. Local heroes like Brouwerij ‘t IJ offer unique twists on the classic style, like their IJwit white lager.
Amsterdam IPAs: Embrace the hoppy revolution with bold, citrus-infused IPAs. Brouwerij Troost and De Prael are renowned for their hoppy monsters. On the other hand, Põhjala Brewery showcases juicy New England-style IPAs.
Craft Stouts & Sours: Dive into the dark side with rich, roasty stouts like Brouwerij Oedipus’ Poseidon or experiment with tart delights like De Proefbrouwerij’s Zure Bom.
Seasonal Specialties: Amsterdam’s breweries are masters of seasonal innovation. Keep an eye out for pumpkin ales in autumn, warming winter bocks, and refreshing fruit-infused brews in summer.
Pubs and Breweries to Visit in Amsterdam
Brouwerij ‘t IJ: This iconic windmill brewery stands proudly on the waterfront, offering breathtaking views alongside their IJwit white lager and Zatte (“crazy”) IPA.
Brouwerij Troost: Known for their hop-forward IPAs and vibrant taproom, Troost is a haven for IPA aficionados.
De Prael: Discover Amsterdam’s brewing history at this centuries-old distillery turned brewery, where tradition meets innovation in beers like Zwarte Piet stout.
Taproom In De Pels: Dive into the heart of Amsterdam’s craft scene at this bustling taproom showcasing dozens of rotating beers from local and international breweries.
Het Paardje: For a cozy, traditional vibe, head to Het Paardje, a historic pub pouring Dutch lagers and local craft beers alongside hearty Dutch fare.
Conclusion: The Hunt for the Best Beer in Europe
If we’re being honest, these beer traditions are only a small part of a much bigger list. This is simply part of Europe’s charm. It’s certainly worth taking a trip to Europe, if only for the beer. This is why you should know the steps you need to take to get you there. Particularly, this relates to the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS).
The Schengen Region is vast, and you can only imagine how interesting it might be to hunt for the best beer in Europe. If you’re lucky, you may even discover a number of little-known European beer nooks and crannies that you can share with the rest of the world.