Why Olomouc is a Craft Beer Paradise

The Czech Republic is known for its world-class beer. While Prague gets the most fame, Olomouc offers a more authentic experience. The city is home to thousands of students. This creates a high demand for high-quality yet affordable drinks. You can find many alternative nightlife and student bars tucked away in historic buildings.

Brewing in Olomouc dates back centuries. Today, microbreweries are leading a modern revolution. These spots focus on small batches and fresh ingredients. Most of the best craft beer pubs in Olomouc center are within walking distance of each other. This makes the city perfect for a self-guided pub crawl. You can enjoy the stunning architecture while moving from one taproom to the next.

Prices here are generally lower than in the capital. You get to enjoy premium brews without breaking the bank. The atmosphere is usually relaxed and welcoming. It is a great place to meet locals and fellow travelers alike. For more general travel info, check out the Olomouc Tourism Portal for maps and events.

Top 10 Best Craft Beer Pubs in Olomouc Center

Here are the top picks for your next visit. These spots offer the best variety and atmosphere in the city. Check out these quick picks for a fast decision:

• Best overall: Svatováclavský Pivovar
• Best for students: Hospoda U Musea (Ponorka)
• Best for variety: Pivní Ráj
• Best unique vibe: Jazz Tibet Club

1. Name: Svatováclavský Pivovar Type: Iconic Microbrewery Why go: It is one of the most famous breweries in the city center. They offer a wide range of house-brewed beers, including wheat and fruit varieties. Best for: A traditional Czech meal with fresh beer. Where: Mariánská Street. Time: 1.5–2 hours. Cost: Moderate (50–90 CZK per pint). Getting there: A 5-minute walk from the Holy Trinity Column. Tip: Try their beer soup for a unique local taste.
2. Name: Pivovar Moritz Type: Microbrewery & Restaurant Why go: This spot has a cozy, old-world feel with wood-paneled interiors. Their unfiltered lager is a local favorite. Best for: A rainy-day retreat or a quiet dinner. Where: Nešverova Street. Time: 1–2 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Located near the city park, easily reachable by foot. Tip: Reservations are recommended on Friday nights.
3. Name: Chomout Taproom (U Červeného volka) Type: Brewery Taproom Why go: Chomout is a top-tier local craft brewery. Their center taproom serves their latest experimental batches. Best for: Modern craft beer enthusiasts. Where: Lower Square (Dolní náměstí). Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Right in the heart of the Lower Square. Tip: Ask the staff about their seasonal specials.
4. Name: Pivní Ráj (Beer Paradise) Type: Beer Shop & Bar Why go: This is a true "market" for beer lovers. They have hundreds of bottles and several rotating taps. Best for: Finding rare Czech craft bottles to take home. Where: Near the main university buildings. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Varies by bottle. Getting there: Short walk from the Republic Square. Tip: You can drink your bottle on-site for a small corkage fee.
5. Name: Hospoda U Musea (Ponorka) Type: Alternative Student Bar Why go: Known as "The Submarine," this is an iconic underground spot. It is a staple of the university students party in Olomouc scene. Best for: Gritty, alternative vibes and cheap beer. Where: Near the Archdiocesan Museum. Time: 2+ hours. Cost: Budget-friendly. Getting there: Located in a basement near the cathedral. Tip: It gets very smoky and crowded late at night.
6. Name: Los Bastardos Type: Craft Beer & Burger Bar Why go: They combine great craft taps with some of the best burgers in town. It has a high-energy, modern atmosphere. Best for: A lively evening with friends. Where: Near the Upper Square. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Just off the main pedestrian zone. Tip: Their Mexican-inspired snacks pair perfectly with IPAs.
7. Name: Black Stuff Irish Pub Type: High-end Craft Pub Why go: While it looks like an Irish pub, it has a massive focus on craft beer and whiskey. It is often rated as one of the best bars in the country. Best for: Expertly poured pints and a premium feel. Where: 1. Máje Street. Time: 1–2 hours. Cost: Slightly higher than average. Getting there: On the way from the train station to the center. Tip: Check out their extensive whiskey list if you need a break from beer.
8. Name: Jazz Tibet Club Type: Unique Local Experience Why go: This is a cultural hub that serves excellent craft beer. The interior is stunning with brick arches and a great stage. Best for: Catching live music with a quality pint. Where: Sokolská Street. Time: 2–3 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: A few minutes' walk from the Museum of Art. Tip: Check their schedule online for concert nights.
9. Name: U Dvou Strašidel Type: Traditional Pub with Craft Taps Why go: A classic Czech "hospoda" that has embraced the craft movement. It feels very local and unpretentious. Best for: An authentic Moravian pub experience. Where: Near the university library. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Budget-friendly. Getting there: Hidden in a side street near Křížkovského. Tip: Try the pickled camembert (nakládaný hermelín) with your beer.
10. Name: Zahrada (The Garden) Type: Outdoor Nature Experience Why go: This is a seasonal favorite. It is an outdoor seating area that serves local brews in a relaxed, green setting. Best for: Summer afternoons and fresh air. Where: Near the city walls. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Budget-friendly. Getting there: Walk along the park walls near the center. Tip: It is usually only open during the warmer months.

Olomouc Beer Culture and Student Life

Beer is more than just a drink in Olomouc; it is a social glue. The presence of Palacký University means the city is always buzzing. Students often gather in the parks or hidden courtyards with a beer in hand. If you want to explore more, read our alternative guide to Olomouc for hidden spots. The local culture values quality and tradition.

You will notice that many pubs have a "stamgast" culture. These are the regulars who have their own reserved seats. Don't worry, though, as most places are very friendly to tourists. Just remember to greet the staff when you enter. A simple "Dobrý den" goes a long way here. Most people in the craft beer scene speak at least some English.

During the year, the city hosts several beer festivals. These events bring together breweries from all over Moravia. It is a great way to taste many styles in one location. If you are visiting in 2026, check the local calendar for the "Beerfest Olomouc." It is usually held in late spring and is a highlight for locals. You can find more details on the Visit Czechia website.

Practical Tips for Your Olomouc Pub Crawl

Planning a night out in Olomouc is straightforward. Most pubs in the center are open from mid-afternoon until midnight. On weekends, they may stay open later. It is common to pay with a card in most craft beer spots. However, keeping some cash (Czech Koruna) is wise for smaller, traditional pubs. Tipping is usually around 10% or just rounding up the bill.

Reservations are a good idea if you are in a large group. This is especially true for popular spots like Svatováclavský Pivovar or Moritz. You can often book a table via their social media or website. If a table has a "Rezervace" card, it is taken. Always look for a small sign on the table before sitting down.

Transport in the city is very easy. The tram system is efficient and runs late. However, the center is compact enough to walk everywhere. Walking between pubs allows you to see the illuminated monuments. The city is very safe at night, even in the smaller alleys. Just be mindful of noise levels in residential areas.