Explore the rich heritage of Czech craftsmanship with a fascinating day trip to the Pilsner Urquell brewery and Bohemian glassworks. Dive into the intricate processes behind traditional crystal manufacturing at Rücll Crystal a.s., followed by a journey to Pilsen for sightseeing and a delectable Czech lunch. But the highlight of the day? An insightful tour of the historic Pilsner Urquell brewery, where you’ll uncover the secrets behind the iconic beer’s unique brewing technique and savor its authentic flavors. This semi-private tour offers an immersive experience that showcases the country’s rich cultural heritage and time-honored traditions.
This experience made our list of the 6 Best Drinking Tours In Plzen.
Key Points
- Comprehensive day trip to Pilsner Urquell brewery and Bohemian glassworks, including guided tours, traditional Czech lunch, and tasting of authentic Pilsner Urquell beer.
- Explore the rich heritage of Bohemian glass-making with a guided tour at the Rücll Crystal a.s. glassworks, showcasing the manufacturing process and traditional techniques.
- Visit the historic center of Pilsen, home to the iconic Church of St. Bartholomew, and experience the charming Baroque and Renaissance architecture.
- Discover the traditional brewing techniques used to craft Pilsner Urquell beer, unchanged since the 19th century, with a guided tour and tasting.
- Enjoy a two-course traditional Czech lunch at an original Pilsner restaurant, immersing in the local culinary traditions.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The day trip to the Pilsner Urquell brewery and Bohemian glassworks offers a comprehensive experience, allowing visitors to explore the rich history and production processes of these iconic Czech industries.
Priced from £147.48 per person, the semi-private tour lasts 9 hours and has a maximum of 8 participants.
Visitors can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance and the reserve now & pay later option.
The tour provides pickup and drop-off, an air-conditioned vehicle, admissions to the glassworks and brewery, a traditional Czech lunch, and beverages – all with the guidance of a private English-speaking guide.
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Itinerary and Activities
The day trip begins with a pickup from Prague 1, followed by a 40-minute car ride to Rücll Crystal a.s.
Participants will enjoy a guided tour of the Rücll glassworks, learning about the stages of crystal manufacturing. After the tour, there’s free time to explore.
The group then travels to Pilsen for sightseeing and a traditional Czech lunch at a Pilsner restaurant, lasting about an hour.
Next, they’ll visit the Pilsner Urquell brewery for a guided tour, learning about the brewing history and technique, including tasting authentic non-filtered beer.
The tour concludes with free time before returning to Prague 1.
Inclusions and Highlights
This tour’s inclusions and highlights provide a comprehensive experience for participants.
The tour includes a private, English-speaking guide who accompanies the group throughout the day. Transportation is provided via an air-conditioned vehicle, with pickup and drop-off from Prague 1.
Admission fees to the Rücll glassworks and Pilsner Urquell brewery are included, allowing visitors to explore the stages of crystal manufacturing and learn about the brewery’s history and brewing techniques, including a tasting of the authentic, non-filtered Pilsner beer.
A traditional two-course Czech lunch at a Pilsner restaurant is also part of the package, along with bottled water and non-alcoholic beverages.
Exploring Crystal Manufacturing
Visitors start their day trip journey by exploring the captivating Rücll Crystal a.s. glassworks.
During the guided tour, they witness the intricate stages of crystal manufacturing. From carefully selecting the raw materials to the meticulous hand-blowing and engraving processes, the tour provides a comprehensive understanding of the art of Bohemian crystal.
Guests marvel at the skilled artisans, who use traditional techniques passed down through generations, shaping the molten glass into exquisite masterpieces.
The tour culminates with a chance to browse the showroom, where visitors can admire the stunning crystal creations and even purchase unique souvenirs to take home, embodying the rich heritage of Bohemian glass-making.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyHistoric Center of Pilsen
After exploring the mesmerizing Bohemian crystal manufacturing, the tour moves onward to the historic center of Pilsen.
The group travels for 30 minutes to reach the city, known for its architectural gems. The highlight is the Church of St. Bartholomew, a stunning Gothic cathedral that dominates the main square.
Visitors can wander through the charming streets, admiring the well-preserved Baroque and Renaissance buildings.
The tour also provides an opportunity to soak in the lively atmosphere of the city, with its bustling cafes and local shops.
This brief exploration of Pilsen’s historic core sets the stage for the main event – the visit to the renowned Pilsner Urquell brewery.
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Pilsner Urquell Brewing Technique
The guided tour at the Pilsner Urquell brewery delves into the brewery’s time-honored brewing techniques.
Visitors learn how the iconic Pilsner beer is crafted using traditional methods that have remained largely unchanged since the 19th century.
They’ll witness the brewers expertly managing the fermentation and aging processes, which are crucial for achieving the beer’s distinctive flavor profile.
The tour also highlights the importance of using high-quality local ingredients, like the soft Pilsen water and aromatic Saaz hops, in the production of Pilsner Urquell.
Traditional Czech Lunch Experience
Following the brewery tour, guests will savor a traditional Czech lunch at an original Pilsner restaurant.
The meal features a two-course menu, showcasing the region’s signature dishes. Guests can expect to indulge in hearty Czech staples, such as:
- Roasted pork with sauerkraut and dumplings
- Goulash with bread dumplings
- Potato pancakes with smoked meat and horseradish
This authentic dining experience allows visitors to enjoy the local culinary traditions while enjoying the lively atmosphere of the Pilsner hotel.
The lunch is included as part of the comprehensive tour package, providing a well-rounded cultural exploration of the Bohemian region.
Customer Feedback and Important Information
Customers’ reviews of the day trip to the Pilsner Urquell Brewery have been overwhelmingly positive, with an overall rating of 5/5 based on 3 assessments.
Feedback highlights the knowledgeable tour guide and the relaxed pace of the itinerary. However, the tour may not be suitable for wheelchair users.
Recommended items for the trip include a camera, while alcohol and drugs are prohibited.
The tour offers an immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore the stages of crystal manufacturing at Rücll glassworks, visit the historic center of Pilsen, and learn about the brewing history and technique of Pilsner Urquell, including the opportunity to taste the authentic non-filtered beer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Photography Allowed During the Brewery Tour?
Yes, photography is allowed during the Pilsner Urquell brewery tour. The tour includes ample opportunities for guests to capture photos of the historic brewing facilities and the beer-making process.
Can I Purchase Pilsner Urquell Beer at the End of the Tour?
Yes, visitors can purchase Pilsner Urquell beer at the end of the brewery tour. The tour includes free time at the brewery, allowing participants to explore the gift shop and sample or purchase the iconic Czech beer.
How Much Free Time Is Available at Each Location?
The tour provides 30 minutes of free time at the Rücll glassworks and 30 minutes at the Pilsner Urquell brewery, allowing participants to explore the sites at their own pace and make the most of the experience.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour Participants?
The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions, and it’s suitable for participants of all ages. Children are welcome to join the tour, though parents should ensure their safety and supervision throughout the activities.
Can I Request a Vegetarian or Halal Meal Option for the Lunch?
Yes, customers can request vegetarian or halal meal options for the included lunch. The tour provider aims to accommodate dietary requirements with advance notice. Participants should simply indicate their preference when booking the tour.
Recap
This day trip offers a unique opportunity to take in the rich heritage of Czech craftsmanship. From witnessing the intricate process of crystal manufacturing at the Rückl Crystal glassworks to exploring the historic Pilsner Urquell brewery and savoring authentic Pilsner beer, this tour provides a well-rounded experience that celebrates the country’s enduring traditions and expertise. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or simply interested in learning about Czech culture, this excursion is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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