Beer & Baroque: A Highbrow Brew Walking Tour

Exploring the rich brewing heritage of Prague, this walking tour delves into the intertwined histories of religion, architecture, and Czech beer culture. Led by an expert historian, participants can savor traditional lagers at the Benedictine Břevnov Monastery and sample specialty ales at the Strahov Monastery, both with centuries-old brewing traditions. The tour also includes a visit to the breathtaking Baroque library at Strahov, showcasing the enduring influence of monastic brewing. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or history buff, this highbrow brew tour promises a captivating glimpse into Prague’s deep-rooted connection to the art of beermaking.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Drinking Tours In Prague.

Key Points

• This 4-hour walking tour explores the centuries-old monastic brewing traditions at two of Prague’s oldest monasteries – Břevnov and Strahov.
• Participants can savor the monasteries’ own beers and learn about the intertwining of religion, history, and brewing culture in the Czech Republic.
• The tour includes a visit to the renowned Strahov Monastery Library, known for its breathtaking Baroque architecture and ornate interiors.
• Led by an expert historian guide, the tour provides insights into the heritage and history of Czech beer.
• The tour has a 4.95-star rating across 40 reviews and earns a Badge of Excellence.

Overview of the Tour

The Beer & Baroque: A Highbrow Brew Walking Tour offers a captivating exploration of Prague’s rich beer heritage and historic monasteries, attracting a 4.95-star rating across 40 reviews and earning a Badge of Excellence.

This 4-hour walking tour takes participants to two of Prague’s oldest monastic breweries, where they’ll learn about the Czech beer tradition and its monastic roots.

Led by an expert historian guide, the tour delves into the origins of beer brewing at the Břevnov Monastery, which has been in operation since 993 AD, and the Strahov Monastery, where beer was first brewed in the early 14th century.

Tastings at both breweries allow participants to savor the fruits of this storied beer legacy.

Monastic Brewing Traditions

Monastic brewing traditions have long been intertwined with the rich history of beer in the Czech Republic, as evidenced by the centuries-old breweries at the Břevnov and Strahov Monasteries. The Benedictine monks at Břevnov have been brewing beer since 993 AD, passing down their expertise and recipes through the generations. Similarly, the Strahov Monastery claims to have brewed beer as early as the 14th century, making it one of the oldest brewing sites in the country. These historic monastic breweries offer a glimpse into the origins of Czech beer culture, showcasing the integral role that religious institutions played in shaping the nation’s beloved beverage.

Monastery	Brewing Tradition	Beer Styles
Břevnov	Since 993 AD	Traditional Czech Lagers
Strahov	Since 14th Century	Ales and Specialty Brews

Břevnov Monastery Highlights

Founded in 993 AD, Břevnov Monastery stands as the oldest monastic institution in the Czech Republic. Its Benedictine monks have carried on a centuries-old brewing tradition, crafting traditional Czech lagers within the monastery’s hallowed halls.

During the tour, visitors will get a glimpse into this rich history, learning about the role beer played in the daily lives of the monks. The guide will share insights into the monastery’s architecture and the influence of the Baroque style, all while allowing participants to savor the flavors of the monastery’s own beer.

This unique experience offers a deep dive into the intersection of religion, history, and the beloved Czech brewing culture.

Strahov Monastery Highlights

After exploring the rich brewing legacy of Břevnov Monastery, the tour takes visitors to Strahov Monastery, where beer was first crafted in the early 14th century.

Founded in 1143, this historic site houses one of the largest and most impressive monastic libraries in the world, featuring breathtaking Baroque architecture and ornate interiors. Guests will have the opportunity to tour the library’s magnificent halls, adorned with intricate frescoes and ornate shelves containing thousands of rare books and manuscripts.

The tour also includes a visit to the on-site Strahov Monastery Brewery, where participants can sample the monks’ renowned beer and learn about the centuries-old brewing traditions that continue to thrive within these hallowed walls.

Included in the Tour

The Beer & Baroque walking tour includes a historian guide who shares insights into the Czech beer heritage and history. Participants also enjoy beer tastings at the Břevnov and Strahov Monastery Breweries. Plus, the 2000 CZK reservation fee covers a tour of the renowned Strahov Monastery Library.

Included in the Tour
Historian Guide
Beer Tastings
Strahov Monastery Library Tour
2000 CZK Reservation Fee
Duration: 4 hours

The tour is a comprehensive experience, providing both historical context and behind-the-scenes access to Prague’s monastic brewing heritage.

Meeting and End Points

Beginning the tour, participants meet at the Bagel Lounge Malostranská in Prague 1.

The walking tour then concludes back in the city center.

Along the way, the expert guide leads the group through the historic streets, providing insights into Prague’s rich beer heritage.

The meeting point is conveniently located near public transportation, making it easy for travelers to access the starting point.

At the end of the 4-hour experience, you will have explored two ancient monastery breweries and gained a deeper appreciation for the origins of Czech beer.

The walking tour’s central meeting and end points ensure a seamless and well-organized experience for all attendees.

Tour Pricing and Details

The Beer & Baroque: A Highbrow Brew Walking Tour is priced at 2,000 CZK as a reservation fee for the Strahov Monastery Library tour, with an additional optional fee of 700 CZK (approximately $30) per person.

This 4-hour walking tour allows travelers to explore the origins of Prague’s beer brewing traditions at the two oldest monastic breweries. Participants will learn about the Benedictine monks at Břevnov Monastery since 993 and visit Strahov Monastery, where beer was first brewed in the early 14th century.

The tour includes a historian guide and beer tastings at both monasteries. The tour starts at 12:00 pm with a maximum group size of 8 travelers and isn’t wheelchair accessible, but is near public transportation.

Additional Considerations

Aside from the pricing and tour details, there are a few additional considerations travelers should keep in mind when booking this experience.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though it’s located near public transportation options.

Group sizes are limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, providing a more intimate experience.

Plus, there’s an optional add-on tour of the Strahov Monastery Library that costs an extra 700 CZK per person.

Confirmation is received at the time of booking, so travelers can rest assured their spot is secured.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is It Possible to Bring Children on the Tour?

The tour’s details do not explicitly state whether children are allowed. However, the maximum group size of 8 travelers suggests the tour may not be well-suited for young children. Guests should contact the tour provider for confirmation on their child policy.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no strict dress code for the tour, but guests should wear comfortable walking shoes and dress for the weather. Casual, smart-casual attire is appropriate for this walking tour experience.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Larger Groups?

While the tour typically accommodates groups up to 8 travelers, it’s possible to arrange for larger groups. Customizations and special arrangements may be available upon request, depending on group size and tour provider policies.

Are Food Options Available During the Tour?

The tour does not include any food options. However, participants can purchase snacks or meals on their own during the tour breaks at the monasteries or nearby establishments. The focus of the tour is on exploring the beer brewing history and heritage.

Is It Possible to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour duration can likely be extended, though it would require prior coordination with the tour operator. Additional fees may apply for an extended tour. Travelers should inquire about customization options when booking to ensure the tour meets their needs.

Recap

This walking tour offers a unique opportunity to explore Prague’s centuries-old monastic brewing traditions. Visitors can savor traditional lagers and specialty ales, while gaining insight into the intertwined histories of religion, architecture, and Czech beer culture.

The tour also includes a visit to the breathtaking Baroque library at Strahov Monastery, showcasing the enduring influence of these monastic brewing legacies.