The Birthplace of the World‘s First Golden Lager 🍻🍺

If you're a beer lover, Pilsen, Czech Republic, is a pilgrimage destination. We couldn’t resist the call to visit the birthplace of the world’s first golden lager—Pilsner Urquell Brewery. Nestled in the heart of Plzeň at U Prazdroje 7, this brewery offers an unforgettable journey through time, tradition, and the brewing process. Our tour started in the Historic Brew House, where the magic began back in 1842. The moment we entered, the gleaming copper kettles almost felt like a time machine, transporting us to the days when the world was first introduced to the iconic golden beer. It was incredible to stand in the very place where it all began! Next, we wandered into the Ingredients Hall, where the essence of Pilsner Urquell is revealed. Here, we could smell and even touch the Saaz hops, Moravian barley, and the soft Pilsen water—the essential elements that make this lager so special. You don’t realize how much these ingredients matter until you experience them firsthand. As the tour continued, we ventured into the Modern Brewery, where tradition meets technology. We watched as the ancient brewing techniques blended with cutting-edge technology to create the iconic beer of today. But the real adventure came next: the Underground Cellars. We descended 20 meters below the ground into miles of cold, stone passages. It felt like stepping into another world—cool, dark, and full of brewing history. The cellars have been aging Pilsner Urquell since 1842, and the chill air (around 5°C year-round!) kept us in awe of the beer’s time-honored craftsmanship. The highlight of the tour was the Unfiltered Beer Tasting. We got to sip fresh, unfiltered Pilsner Urquell straight from oak barrels. There's nothing quite like tasting beer straight from the source—it was smoother, richer, and more vibrant than anything we’d ever had from a bottle or tap. Tips for Visiting: Dress warm: The underground cellars are chilly, even in the summer—definitely pack a jacket! Book ahead: If you’re planning to visit during peak season, tours can fill up quickly, so be sure to reserve your spot. Visit the brewery shop: Pick up exclusive Pilsner Urquell merchandise and beers you won’t find anywhere else. Grab a bite: After your tour, enjoy hearty Czech classics at the Na Spilce restaurant on-site, perfectly paired with a glass of fresh Pilsner. Fun Fact: Did you know that over 70% of the beers brewed today are inspired by Pilsner Urquell’s method and taste? The "pilsner" style is everywhere, and it all began here.