Why Tank Beer is a Must-Try in Prague

Tank beer, or "tankovna," is the gold standard of Czech brewing. Most beer is pasteurized to last longer on shelves. Tank beer remains raw and unpasteurized for maximum flavor. It is stored in large stainless steel tanks inside the pub. This system keeps the beer at a perfect temperature. It also prevents the beer from touching oxygen until it hits your glass. You can learn more about these traditions through Prague beer spas and brewery tours. For more general travel info, visit the Visit Czechia website. Experience the crisp taste that locals have loved for centuries.

10 Best Pubs for Tank Beer in Prague

Prague has hundreds of pubs, but only some serve beer from the tank. These locations take great pride in their tap systems. Here are the top spots to visit in 2026 for the freshest pints.

• Name: Lokál Dlouhááá Type: Traditional Pub Why go: It is the most famous spot for fresh Pilsner Urquell. The long hall creates a lively atmosphere. Best for: Socializing and local snacks. Where: Old Town (Dlouhá street). Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: 65-80 CZK per pint. Getting there: Walk from Old Town Square or take tram 8 to Dlouhá třída. Tip: Try the fried cheese along with your beer.
• Name: U Pinkasů Type: Historical Landmark Why go: This was the first pub in Prague to serve Pilsner Urquell in 1843. It has a beautiful outdoor garden near a church. Best for: History buffs. Where: New Town (near Wenceslas Square). Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: 70-90 CZK per pint. Getting there: Metro A or B to Můstek. Tip: Sit in the "Gothic Cellar" for a unique vibe.
• Name: Kantýna Type: Butcher Shop & Pub Why go: You order high-quality meat at the counter and drink tank beer at standing tables. It is a modern, high-energy experience. Best for: Meat lovers. Where: New Town (Politických vězňů). Time: 1 hour. Cost: 75-95 CZK per pint. Getting there: Walk from the Main Railway Station. Tip: Get the beef tartare; it is legendary.
• Name: U Zlatého Tygra Type: Traditional Pub Why go: This is a legendary "old school" pub where Bill Clinton once drank. It only serves tank beer and has a strict local feel. Best for: Authentic atmosphere. Where: Old Town (Husova). Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: 60-75 CZK per pint. Getting there: Walk from Charles Bridge. Tip: Be prepared to share a table with strangers.
• Name: Červený Jelen Type: Modern Gastropub Why go: It houses the tallest tank beer tower in the world. The interior is a stunning converted bank vault. Best for: Large groups and architecture. Where: New Town (Hybernská). Time: 2 hours. Cost: 70-90 CZK per pint. Getting there: Near Náměstí Republiky metro. Tip: Look up to see the massive red stag sculptures.
• Name: Vinohradský Parlament Type: Neighborhood Pub Why go: They specialize in Staropramen tank beer and excellent Czech cuisine. It is less touristy than Old Town spots. Best for: Families and foodies. Where: Vinohrady district. Time: 2 hours. Cost: 65-85 CZK per pint. Getting there: Metro A to Náměstí Míru. Tip: Check their seasonal food specials.
• Name: Staropramen Visitor Center Type: Brewery Experience Why go: It offers a high-tech tour and fresh tank beer at the source. It is perfect for learning about the brewing process. Best for: Day trips and tours. Where: Smíchov district. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: 200-500 CZK (including tour). Getting there: Staropramen Brewery Visitor Center tour details. Tip: Book your tour online in advance.
• Name: Kolkovna Celnice Type: Classic Czech Restaurant Why go: A reliable spot with a great terrace and consistently perfect tank beer. It is very popular with both locals and visitors. Best for: Lunch. Where: New Town (V Celnici). Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: 70-85 CZK per pint. Getting there: Walk from Náměstí Republiky. Tip: The roast duck is a great pairing for the pilsner.
• Name: Malostranská Beseda Type: Cultural Center & Pub Why go: Located in a historic building on the Lesser Town Square. It offers great views and a relaxed atmosphere. Best for: Sightseeing breaks. Where: Malá Strana. Time: 1 hour. Cost: 70-90 CZK per pint. Getting there: Tram 12, 15, or 22 to Malostranské náměstí. Tip: Check if there is live music upstairs.
• Name: Kozlovna Apropos Type: Themed Pub Why go: If you prefer dark beer, this spot serves Velkopopovický Kozel from the tank. It is rich, smooth, and slightly sweet. Best for: Dark beer fans. Where: Old Town (Křižovnická). Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: 60-80 CZK per pint. Getting there: Near Staroměstská metro. Tip: Try the "cut" beer (half light, half dark).

How to Order Beer Like a Local

Ordering beer in Prague involves more than just saying "one beer." The way the beer is poured changes the flavor. The most common style is the "Hladinka." This has about three fingers of thick, creamy foam. It is the standard way to enjoy tank beer. You might also see the "Šnyt." This is a smaller beer in a large glass with more foam. It is perfect for a quick drink before leaving. Finally, the "Mlíko" is a glass almost entirely full of foam. It looks like milk and tastes surprisingly sweet. For more tips on local customs, check the Prague.eu portal. Always place your coaster down first to show you are ready.