Why Seek Out Unfiltered Pilsner Urquell?

Unfiltered beer is the purest way to enjoy a lager. Most beers are filtered to remove yeast and sediment. This makes the beer clear and helps it last longer. However, filtering also removes some of the complex flavors. Unfiltered Pilsner Urquell remains raw and alive. It has a rich, bread-like aroma and a smooth finish.

In Plzeň, this beer is often served straight from the tank. This means it is as fresh as possible. You will notice a natural cloudiness in the glass. It is also packed with B vitamins and minerals. Many locals believe it is much healthier than standard beer. It is a seasonal or specialty product in most places.

Finding this beer is a highlight of any trip. It represents the gold standard of Czech brewing traditions. You can learn more about the history of this drink on a Pilsner Urquell Brewery tour. The taste is quite different from the bottled version you find at home. It is creamier and has a more pronounced hop bitterness.

Where to Drink Unfiltered Pilsner Urquell in Plzeň

Plzeň offers many fantastic venues for a fresh pint. Some are located inside the brewery itself. Others are tucked away in the historic city center. Use this list to plan your beer crawl through the city. Here are the top nine locations to visit in 2026.

• Quick Pick: Best History - Šenk Na Parkánu
• Quick Pick: Best Atmosphere - Brewery Cellars
• Quick Pick: Best Modern Vibe - Lokál Pod Divadlem
• Quick Pick: Best for Food - Lékárna

1. Name: Pilsner Urquell Brewery Cellars Type: Unique experience Why go: This is the only place to drink beer directly from oak barrels. It is the most authentic experience in the world. Best for: History buffs and purists. Where: Brewery grounds. Time: 2 hours (part of a tour). Cost: Included in tour price (approx. 380 CZK). Getting there: Walk 10 minutes from the main train station. Tip: You must book a tour at the Pilsner Urquell Brewery to enter the cellars.
2. Name: Restaurace Na Spilce Type: Sight/Indoor Why go: Located in the former fermentation cellar, this is one of the largest beer halls in Czechia. They serve fresh unfiltered beer in a grand setting. Best for: Large groups and traditional meals. Where: Brewery courtyard. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: 65-80 CZK per pint. Getting there: Located right inside the main brewery gate. Tip: Try the traditional beef goulash with your beer.
3. Name: Šenk Na Parkánu Type: Museum/Indoor Why go: This pub is connected to the Brewery Museum. It is famous for the quality of its tapsters and historic decor. Best for: A cozy, old-world atmosphere. Where: Veleslavínova street, near the center. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: 60-75 CZK per pint. Getting there: A short walk from the Republic Square. Tip: Sit in the outdoor garden during summer for a great view.
4. Name: Lokál Pod Divadlem Type: Neighborhood/Modern Why go: Lokál is famous for its long beer tanks and high turnover. The beer is always incredibly fresh and perfectly chilled. Best for: Meeting locals and a lively vibe. Where: Near the J.K. Tyl Theatre. Time: 2+ hours. Cost: 60-70 CZK per pint. Getting there: Walk 5 minutes from the city center. Tip: Order the "šnyt" pour for a smaller, foamier tasting experience.
5. Name: U Salzmannů Type: Historic pub Why go: This is the oldest pub in Plzeň, dating back to 1637. It offers a classic wood-paneled interior and excellent service. Best for: Traditional Czech hospitality. Where: Pražská street. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: 65-80 CZK per pint. Getting there: Just off the main Republic Square. Tip: This is a great spot for a quiet afternoon drink.
6. Name: Lékárna Type: Neighborhood/Market Why go: Located right on the main square, this pub serves fantastic unfiltered beer and high-end Czech cuisine. Best for: People-watching on the square. Where: Náměstí Republiky. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: 70-85 CZK per pint. Getting there: The central point of the city. Tip: Check their daily specials for unique seasonal dishes.
7. Name: Restaurace 12 Type: Modern experience Why go: A stylish restaurant that focuses on beer quality. It has a great terrace and a modern take on Czech food. Best for: A relaxed dinner with friends. Where: Kopeckého sady. Time: 2 hours. Cost: 65-80 CZK per pint. Getting there: Located in the park ring around the center. Tip: Visit in the evening when the park is lit up.
8. Name: Potrefená Husa Type: Brand pub Why go: This is a reliable chain known for maintaining high standards for their tap beer. They often have unfiltered specials on tap. Best for: Consistent quality and a modern menu. Where: Near the city center. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: 65-75 CZK per pint. Getting there: Easy walk from any central hotel. Tip: Their wings and burgers are a great alternative to heavy Czech food.
9. Name: Pilsner Fest Type: Unique local experience Why go: This annual festival celebrates the anniversary of the first brew. Unfiltered beer flows everywhere during this massive event. Best for: Festival lovers and party-goers. Where: Brewery grounds and city center. Time: Full day. Cost: Entry is often free; pay per beer. Getting there: Follow the crowds from the train station. Tip: Book your accommodation months in advance for this October event.

Tips for Your Plzeň Beer Experience

Drinking in Plzeň is a cultural ritual. Most pubs open early and stay busy until late. It is generally very safe to walk around at night. You can check if Plzeň is safe for tourists at night before you head out. Most locals are friendly and proud of their beer heritage.

When you enter a pub, look for the "tankovna" sign. This means the beer is served from large tanks rather than kegs. Tank beer is usually fresher and less carbonated. You should also learn the different ways to pour beer. A "hladinka" is the standard pour with three fingers of foam. This is the best way to taste the balance of the beer.

Don't forget to explore other best things to do in Plzeň between drinks. You can visit the cathedral or the Great Synagogue. For more official information, visit the Visit Plzeň website. Always remember to drink water between pints to stay hydrated. Czech beer is stronger than it looks!