You know you’ll enjoy those cathedrals, museums, and landmarks much more after a pint or flight* of delicately created suds. And when you’re traveling, sometimes you just need to sit and decompress for a minute or 90…especially if it happens to be a rainy day.
Microbreweries and craft beer pubs are now commonplace across the world. If you’re planning a trip to Europe or already live there (I’m so jealous) and want to expand your beer horizons, look no further than these 11 cozy hop havens.
Rome, Italy
Entering Ma Che Siete Venuti a Fa’ feels like you’re walking into a secret society of beer lovers. Located in the heart of Trastevere, one of Rome’s most vibrant neighborhoods, you could accidentally walk past this bar. It’s that tiny!
But fortunately size doesn’t matter, and you’re sure to find a host of rare, top-quality international names on the constantly rotating tap list. Bartenders here are incredible, and will ask all about your flavor preferences to ensure you love the beer set in front of you.
Brussels, Belgium
“Beer is the answer,” is the rightful slogan at Moeder Lambic. Situated only a few streets over from Grand Place, you’ll find fairly priced Belgian national rarities from the likes of Cantillon, Tilquin, De Rank, and Verzet. Sour beer lovers can certainly rejoice here!
If you can’t fit in visits to any breweries, Moeder is one of the best alternatives you’ll find. Bartenders are fast, friendly, and knowledgeable — and you’re sure to make some new friends before continuing on with your day of sightseeing.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Take a short wander away from the Royal Mile and past the towering castle to experience a beloved local bar in Edinburgh’s West End. The Hanging Bar Beer Cafe primarily stocks UK-produced beers, while offering a seriously tantalizing food menu (hot dogs, anyone?). The vibe inside is cool and slightly gritty, with an extra dose of camaraderie. You can stay for hours and no one will bat an eye.
Flights are available on the token system and are sure to warm you up for the walk back to your accommodation! From Beavertown to Magic Rock, it’s likely you’ll find a new brewery to follow and seek out once you’re back home.
Munich, Germany
Munich is known for its big beer houses and festivals, but if you take a short jaunt to the Au-Haidhausen area, you’ll find a wealth of international beer beauties. Tap-House is home to 42 taps and 200 bottles, and has earned honors for its wide selection.
With such a mellow vibe and distinguished variety, it’s easy to lay claim to your bar seat for hours without a care. Download their app for direct access to their current tap list, recommendations, and industry lingo. Prices are reasonable and public transport is just steps away.
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
When you’ve met your fix of museum touring (or other activities!) for the day, head over to Winkel en Browerij de Prael for some top-of-the-line beers. Flights are the way to go here and come with a personal-sized bowl of peanuts and complimentary water.
Advertising the gamut, from scotch ales to bitter blondes, you’ll leave the modern and airy bar feeling satiated and ready to take on the next leg of your adventure in The Netherlands!
Prague, Czech Republic
BeerGeek Bar is one of Prague’s hidden hot spots. Nestled away from the main tourist areas and right off the Jiřího z Poděbrad (line A) metro stop, this step-down bar is teeming with modern charm and offers plenty of hyperlocal, national and international craft beers.
Once you’ve downed a few pours, which are available in full, half, or flight size, take a short walk away to BeerGeek’s pivoteka (bottle shop). There you’ll find unbeatable prices on a host of popular and rare brews. If you’re missing top brands from the United States, this is the place to be. A small selection of beers are also available for tasting at the bottle shop.
Vienna, Austria
1516 is more a lively meeting place than a mellow pub, but solo or with a group of 10, you’ll be welcome here.
The brew pub is situated only steps away from main Viennese attractions, and is an ideal stop to rest your feet while trying local suds.
1516 specializes in — surprise! — lagers, but also stocks a nice variety of saisons, IPAs, and stouts. Their food menu is also spectacular. Soak up your beer with such favorites as the savory and tender Louisiana fried chicken sandwich. Even better, the upstairs bar and dining areas are 100% smoke-free!
Bruges, Belgium
Once you find Staminee de Garre off Bruges main square, you may not want to leave. This little alley bar is jam-packed with rare beers and is home to the fabled Tripel Van de Garre. If you want to have a true Belgian beer experience, this is your spot.
Don’t worry if you can’t immediately find an open seat. The bar extends to three floors tall, and don’t be shy asking others to join their table.
No matter where you sit, you’ll be greeted promptly with a hefty beer menu that’s hard to be replicated elsewhere. Settle in for the long-term, but keep in mind the narrow steps you’ll need to take to exit the bar!
Florence, Italy
Beyond its deep artistic roots, Florence is also home to an up-and-coming beer scene. Mostodolce is at the forefront of the pack and heralds a diverse selection of locally crafted beer.
Come here with a group to take advantage of the happening nightlife scene. Fried foods abound on their late-night menu, and brews are easy to purchase from the bar. Try some of the best suds Italy has to offer at this robust brew pub!
Dublin, Republic of Ireland
If you need a break from Guinness and Bulmers, The Beer Market has you covered with a wide array of classic and wild beers. Try a fresh draft or choose from their bottled selection. This cozy spot is located outside of the Temple Bar area, so you can expect a much more mellow scene.
The best thing about this bar is its friendly vibe. Bartenders are at the ready to help you choose your next favorite pour while chatting all the while.
Berlin, Germany
Kaschk has two personalities: coffee shop by day, lively beer pub by night. It’s a business model made in heaven!
This nordic-styled craft beer bar offers a wide variety of Scandinavian beers on draft and bottled. If you can’t make it up north during your trip, this is the best bet for varied options. The bar itself is on the grittier side, and you can drink your heart out without judgment.
Which beer bars would you add to this list? Sound off in the comments!
*Not all establishments listed offer flights. Inquire within.