Plzen | Pilsner Urquell Brewery Tour
- Jul 6
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 9
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It's difficult to overstate the significance of the Pilsner Urquell Brewery. In 1842, brewers in the Czech city of Plzen created the world's first golden pilsner, forever changing the way beer would be brewed around the world.
Today, nearly two out of every three beers consumed are inspired by their original recipe.
We were surprised at how much history still surrounds the production process. Massive brick buildings, towering brewing vessels, and generations of craftsmanship reminded us that this is one of the birthplaces of modern brewing.
Pilsner Urquell Brewery welcome sign
The Pilsner Urquell Brewery Tour
During this tour we were shown a comprehensive blend of history, brewing processes, fermentation, and innovations that helped propel Pilsner Urquell into one of the most influential breweries in the world.
It was fascinating to see the difference between the historic brewing areas versus the modern facilities. The old methods seemed almost barbaric while the new methods are a marriage of precision, science, and modern machinery. The direct comparison made us realize how far this industry has come.
While modern brewing is an amazingly complex process, there is something to be said for the craftsmanship that went into every batch long before brewing became automated.
Underground Cellars
For us, the highlight of the tour was beneath the brewery.
Stepping into the underground cellars felt like stepping back into the nineteenth century. These cellars feature miles of interconnected sandstone tunnels, rows of enormous oak barrels, and beer slowly maturing under natural refrigeration.
Many of the barrels down there are maintained using traditional techniques that have disappeared nearly everywhere else. One of our favorite parts of the tour was being able to tap one of the barrels and try some of the traditional unfiltered pilsner.
Unfiltered Beer
The unfiltered pilsner was one of the most memorable beers we’ve ever had. The hops were brighter, the head was soft and creamy, and the fresh yeast gave this beer a flavor profile unlike any other.
This beer was undoubtedly our favorite throughout our trip to Czechia, and we will certainly be thinking about it until our next sip.
Important Information
Tour Price: 430 kč ($20 USD).
Tour Tickets: Purchase here.
Tour Length: Approximately 100 minutes.
Language: Tours are offered in English, German, and Czech.
Book Ahead: During summer and weekends, tours often sell out.
Wear a Light Jacket: The historic cellars remain cool year-round.
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