City Breaks for the Craft Beer and Brewery Enthusiasts

27 September 2025

Craft beer isn’t just a drink—it’s a culture, a passion, and for many, a reason to travel. Whether you’re a casual beer lover or a full-on hophead, planning a city break around breweries and taprooms can turn a regular trip into something unforgettable. With craft breweries popping up in cities worldwide, choosing the perfect destination can be overwhelming. But don’t worry—we’ve got you covered!

Here are some of the best cities for craft beer lovers, packed with iconic breweries, local gems, and beer experiences you won’t want to miss.

1. Portland, Oregon – The Craft Beer Capital

If there’s one city that defines craft beer culture, it’s Portland. Dubbed “Beervana,” this Pacific Northwest gem boasts over 70 breweries, making it one of the most beer-rich cities in the world.

Must-Visit Breweries

- Deschutes Brewery – A staple in the Oregon beer scene, their fresh-hop IPAs are legendary.
- Breakside Brewery – Known for experimental brews and award-winning IPAs.
- Cascade Brewing – If you love sour beers, this is the place to be.

What Makes It Special?

Portland isn’t just about quantity—it’s about quality. Almost every neighborhood has a brewery, and beer culture is deeply embedded in daily life. From food truck pairings to scenic brewery tours, this city delivers a beer experience like no other.

2. Brussels, Belgium – The Heart of Traditional Brewing

Belgium is a global craft beer powerhouse, and Brussels is its beating heart. The city is home to centuries-old brewing traditions and some of the best beer bars in the world.

Must-Visit Breweries

- Cantillon Brewery – Famous for lambic and gueuze beers, brewed using wild fermentation methods.
- Brussels Beer Project – A modern brewery blending Belgian traditions with innovative techniques.
- BrewDog Brussels – A British-born brewery that has found a home in the Belgian beer scene.

What Makes It Special?

Want to taste beers that have been brewed the same way for hundreds of years? Brussels is the place. From Trappist ales to experimental craft creations, the variety here is mind-blowing. Plus, the beer culture is deeply respected—ordering a pint feels like a sacred ritual.

3. Munich, Germany – More Than Just Oktoberfest

When you think of German beer, Munich is probably the first city that comes to mind. While it’s famous for Oktoberfest, Munich’s beer scene runs all year long.

Must-Visit Breweries

- Hofbräuhaus München – A historic beer hall with over 400 years of brewing tradition.
- Giesinger Bräu – A modern take on Bavarian brewing.
- Augustiner Bräustuben – One of the oldest and most respected breweries in Munich.

What Makes It Special?

Munich beers are all about purity and tradition. Thanks to the Reinheitsgebot (German Beer Purity Law), every sip tastes clean, crisp, and perfect. And let’s not forget the beer gardens—drinking in the open air with a giant pretzel? Perfection.

4. Denver, Colorado – The Mile-High Beer Haven

Denver is a dream destination for craft beer enthusiasts. Known as the “Napa Valley of Beer,” this city is home to over 150 breweries and hosts the annual Great American Beer Festival.

Must-Visit Breweries

- Great Divide Brewing Co. – Their Yeti Imperial Stout is a must-try.
- Wynkoop Brewing Company – Founded by the former Colorado governor, this place is as classic as it gets.
- Black Shirt Brewing Co. – Specializing in red ales with a creative twist.

What Makes It Special?

Denver takes craft beer seriously. You’ll find everything from bold IPAs to classic lagers, all brewed with that signature Rocky Mountain water. Plus, the brewery tours here go the extra mile—many offer behind-the-scenes looks at the brewing process.

5. Dublin, Ireland – More Than Just Guinness

Yes, Guinness is king in Dublin, but the city’s craft beer movement is growing fast. Beyond the famous black stout, you’ll find independent breweries shaking up the scene.

Must-Visit Breweries

- Guinness Storehouse – No trip to Dublin is complete without a visit to the Guinness factory.
- The Porterhouse Brewing Company – Dublin’s first craft brewery, offering a range of bold flavors.
- Rascals Brewing Co. – A small but mighty brewery pushing creative boundaries.

What Makes It Special?

Dublin’s pub culture is legendary. Drinking here isn’t just about the beer—it’s about the experience. A pint always comes with good conversation, live music, and a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.

6. Tokyo, Japan – A Surprising Craft Beer Gem

Japan might be known for sake, but Tokyo’s craft beer scene is thriving. American-inspired breweries meet Japanese precision, creating some of the most unique and flavorful beers you’ll ever taste.

Must-Visit Breweries

- Hitachino Nest Brewing Lab – Famous for their White Ale.
- Baird Beer Taproom Harajuku – A cozy spot with perfectly balanced brews.
- Tokyo Aleworks – A small but experimental brewery worth checking out.

What Makes It Special?

Tokyo breweries focus on balance and drinkability. Expect crisp, refreshing beers with a twist—think yuzu-infused ales or saisons with a subtle umami kick. Also, izakayas (Japanese pubs) serve up some of the best beer-food pairings ever.

7. Prague, Czech Republic – Lager Paradise

The Czech Republic drinks more beer per capita than any other country, and Prague sits at the center of it all. This city takes its beer culture very seriously.

Must-Visit Breweries

- Pilsner Urquell Brewery – Home of the world’s first pale lager.
- U Fleků – A historic brewery that’s been around since 1499.
- Lokál – Not a brewery, but one of the best places to enjoy fresh, unpasteurized Czech lager.

What Makes It Special?

Czech beer is all about precision. Whether you're sipping a Pilsner Urquell straight from the brewery or enjoying a local favorite in a traditional beer hall, every pint is pure perfection. Plus, beer here is often cheaper than water—how can you say no to that?

Final Thoughts

For craft beer lovers, travel isn’t just about sightseeing—it’s about tasting. Every city has its own brewing style, from Munich’s pure lagers to Portland’s hoppy IPAs. Whether you’re drinking in a historic beer hall or a hipster taproom, a city break centered around breweries is a guaranteed good time.

Tips for the Ultimate Craft Beer Trip

✔ Plan ahead. Some breweries require reservations for tours.
✔ Pace yourself. A beer trip is a marathon, not a sprint.
✔ Talk to the locals. No one knows the best beer spots better than the people who live there.
✔ Try something new. You never know—you might just find your new favorite brew!

So, where’s your next beer adventure?