While Oktoberfest might be Munich’s biggest attraction, it’s far from the only European city perfect for a beer-filled getaway. From a Polish town dotted with statues of beer-loving gnomes to Sweden’s rising craft-brewing scene, here’s the inside scoop on eight European cities that are ideal for a hoppy escape.
1. Dublin, Ireland
Dublin is where Guinness was born, so it’s no shock that the Guinness Storehouse is the city’s top landmark. Get hands-on by perfecting your pint-pouring skills at the Guinness Academy, exploring aromas and flavors in tasting masterclasses, or even snapping a selfie that gets printed onto your beer. Don’t miss other beer hotspots like The Brazen Head, Ireland’s oldest pub (open since 1198!), and Rascals Brewing Company. Take a tour of this small but mighty brewery and sample quirky creations like their smooth Cherry Cola Ale, brewed with cherry, vanilla, and a touch of spice.
2. Pilsen, Czech Republic
Pilsen is where pilsner—the crisp German-style beer—was first brewed by Bavarian master Josef Groll in 1842. His original batch was made at Pilsner Urquell, the country’s biggest brewery. A tour here includes exploring the historic cellars, which stretch nearly six miles. Other must-visits? The 15th-century Brewery Museum, packed with antique brewing gear; Gambrinus Brewery, makers of one of the Czech Republic’s favorite beers; and the Purkmistr Beer Spa, where you can soak in a beer-filled tub.
3. Lille, France
To see Lille’s deep brewing roots, check out its cathedral—it has a stunning stained-glass window honoring Saint Arnold, the patron saint of hop-pickers. The city center, especially the old town, is packed with microbreweries. Stop by Singe Savant Brewery for masterclasses or Goudale, known for its top-fermented brews (made quicker at higher temps). For a deeper dive, L’Echapée-Bière offers beer-themed tours exploring Lille’s history.
4. Wrocław, Poland
Nestled in a major hop-growing region, Wrocław has a long beer tradition—records show its old town hall cellars stored beer as far back as the 1300s. Must-visit breweries include Złoty Pies (“Golden Dog”), marked by a gnome statue sipping beer outside. For history, try Browar Stu Mostów (founded in the 1500s) for malty brews, or Piwnica Świdnicka, dating to the 1200s. Prost, one of the city’s first breweries (with another beer-guzzling gnome at the door), offers tasting masterclasses.
5. Brussels, Belgium
Belgium boasts over 700 beer varieties, all covered at the Beer Museum of Schaerbeek. Top spots include Brussels Beer Project’s Port Sud taproom, with the city’s biggest beer garden overlooking the canal. For something wild, visit Delirium Café—holder of the Guinness World Record for most beers served (2,004!), including some with a whopping 40% ABV. Wrap up at Grand-Place for a sunset drink near the famous Manneken Pis statue, which occasionally dispenses beer on holidays.
6. Budapest, Hungary
If drinking beer isn’t enough, try soaking in it at Lukács Thermal Bath’s beer spa—sip a stein while lounging in a tub of thermal water, malt, and hops. Or, hop on the Beer Bus to tour breweries like Élesztőház, serving top craft beers, while pouring your own Hungarian ale. For something fancier, ARAZ Restaurant at the Continental Hotel Budapest pairs meals with beers tailored to each course.
7. Cologne, Germany
Cologne invented Kölsch beer, a golden ale served in tiny 0.2-liter glasses, first brewed in 1902 by Sünner Kölsch. Today, most local breweries serve it, including Haus Töller, founded in the 1300s. Dive into brewing history at Brauwelt, which has used its own well water since 1830. Stay at Hotel zur Malzmühle, where headboards are shaped like beer barrels—a nod to the city’s brewing legacy.
8. Gothenburg, Sweden
Breweries have been part of Gothenburg since its 1621 founding, and by the 1700s, its beers were shipped as far as the Far East. Today, the city’s craft scene is booming, with 40+ breweries offering tastings, tours, and taprooms. The best way to explore? The Hop-on Hop-off bus, leaving Järntorget square every Saturday. Stops include Spike Brewery, known for bold flavors like coconut-coffee Doppler Effekt, and Ivans Pilsnerbar, a quirky spot specializing in pasta, pilsner, and art.