Quick Picks for Budget Beer Lovers

If you are in a hurry, these quick picks will lead you straight to the best deals. Prague offers a variety of experiences from standing-only bars to historic cellars. These spots are known for their fair pricing and authentic vibes. Use this list to plan your evening without breaking the bank.

• Best Overall Value: U Poutníka
• Best for History: U Jelínků
• Best Hidden Gem: Hostinec U Rotundy
• Best for Food & Beer: Lokál Dlouhááá

Top 10 Spots for the Cheapest Beer in Prague Center

Finding a low-cost pint requires stepping off the main tourist paths. Many authentic Czech pubs for locals hide in plain sight. These venues prioritize regular customers over high-paying tourists. Expect simple decor, hearty snacks, and perfectly poured lagers. Here are the top ten places to visit.

1. Name: U Poutníka Type: Traditional Pub Why go: It serves excellent Pelhřimov beer at some of the lowest prices in the district. Best for: People-watching and fresh lager. Where: New Town (Nové Město). Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: 45–55 CZK. Getting there: Walk from Wenceslas Square. Tip: It is often standing-room only, so arrive early.
2. Name: Hostinec U Rotundy Type: Neighborhood Pub Why go: This is a true time capsule with very cheap Staropramen. Best for: A quiet afternoon drink. Where: Old Town (Staré Město). Time: 1 hour. Cost: 40–50 CZK. Getting there: Near the Karolína Světlá street. Tip: Bring cash as they rarely accept cards.
3. Name: U Rudolfina Type: Classic Pilsner Pub Why go: It offers high-quality Pilsner Urquell at a fair price near the river. Best for: Post-museum refreshment. Where: Old Town near the Rudolfinum. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: 55–65 CZK. Getting there: Metro Line A to Staroměstská. Tip: Try the pickled camembert (nakládaný hermelín) with your beer.
4. Name: Lokál Dlouhááá Type: Modern Beer Hall Why go: While popular, their tank beer is fresh and reasonably priced for the quality. Best for: Experiencing a lively communal atmosphere. Where: Dlouhá Street, Old Town. Time: 2 hours. Cost: 58–68 CZK. Getting there: Short walk from Old Town Square. Tip: You can order beer in a Czech pub correctly by simply nodding when the waiter brings a fresh one.
5. Name: U Jelínků Type: Historic Taproom Why go: This pub has served Pilsner since the early 1900s at local rates. Best for: History buffs. Where: New Town. Time: 1 hour. Cost: 55–65 CZK. Getting there: Near Národní třída metro station. Tip: This is a great place to see local secrets in Prague beer culture.
6. Name: Branická formanka Type: No-frills Pub Why go: It is one of the cheapest places to find Braník beer near the center. Best for: Ultra-budget travelers. Where: Near the Vltava river, New Town. Time: 1 hour. Cost: 35–45 CZK. Getting there: Tram to Palackého náměstí. Tip: The interior is very basic, but the beer is cold.
7. Name: Pivnice U Sadu Type: Quirky Local Pub Why go: It offers a huge selection of beers including cheap house brews. Best for: Late-night drinks. Where: Žižkov border (Prague 3). Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: 45–60 CZK. Getting there: Walk from Jiřího z Poděbrad. Tip: Check the ceiling for weird vintage decorations.
8. Name: Kozlovna Apropos Type: Brand Pub Why go: They serve Velkopopovický Kozel at very competitive prices for the Old Town. Best for: Dark beer lovers. Where: Near Charles Bridge. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: 50–60 CZK. Getting there: Walk from Staroměstská. Tip: Their roasted pork knee is excellent for sharing.
9. Name: Hostinec U Vodoucha Type: Traditional Eatery Why go: It features rotating microbrews at prices lower than the tourist traps. Best for: Trying different Czech beer styles. Where: Vinohrady/Žižkov. Time: 2 hours. Cost: 48–62 CZK. Getting there: Tram to Flora or Olšanské náměstí. Tip: It is worth exploring Prague alternative neighborhoods like this one for better value.
10. Name: U Zlatého Tygra Type: Legendary Pub Why go: Famous as the favorite spot of writer Bohumil Hrabal. Best for: A legendary Pilsner experience. Where: Husova Street, Old Town. Time: 1 hour. Cost: 55–65 CZK. Getting there: Walk from the Clock Tower. Tip: Finding a seat is hard; arrive exactly when they open.

How to Identify Authentic Czech Pubs for Locals

To find the best prices, look for menus posted outside. If a pint of Pilsner is over 80 CZK, you are in a tourist zone. Local spots often display the logo of the brewery prominently. Check the Prague official tourism portal for maps of different districts. Authentic pubs usually have wooden furniture and a slightly smoky history. They often focus on one or two main beer brands.

Neighborhoods like Žižkov and Smíchov are just outside the center. These areas offer significantly lower prices than the Old Town Square. You can find more tips on the Visit Czechia website. Always check if locals are sitting inside. A crowded pub with Czech speakers is a sign of good value. Avoid places with large pictures of food on the sidewalk.