In honor of St. Patrick’s Day, we’ve created a list of awesomely potent cities that rock the beer scene better than others. If you’re in the mood to taste craft brews and get deep into the art of distilling, infusing, and fermenting, then grab a pint and head to one of our Top 10 Best Beer Destinations.
Munich
What beer lover can resist Munich? It’s practically the beer capital of the world, and the home of Oktoberfest. The 16-day festival starts at the end of every September and spills into October with six million attendees, seven million liters of beer and huge amounts of traditional German food.
Denver
The Mile High City doesn’t mess around when it comes to craft brews, and we’re not talking about Coors Lite. Take any of the dozen beer tours that constantly cover the city’s finest hop locales, or attend the 10-day beer festival every September. Brew houses like Falling Rock Taphouse and Wynkoop Brewing Company are prime players.
Brussels
Sure, the chocolate is intoxicating, but it’s nothing compared to the beer here. Folks in Brussels specialize in pale lagers, whose recipes go all the way back to the Middle Ages. Monks were responsible for some of the most historical beer happenings, and now the city is big on branded tulip glasses and goblets, and serves up Stella Artois and Hoegaarden.
Amsterdam
This city isn’t just about free-spirited substances – Amsterdam is home to the Heineken Brewery, where you can learn how the beer is made, play games, have your picture taken and most importantly, sample the concoction. Hospitable bars on just about every corner of the town serve what locals call “Pils” with lots of foam, hops, and satisfaction.
Dublin
One thing’s for certain – the Irish know their beer. We’re not just including this city because Saint Patrick’s Day is upon us – Dublin is chalk-full of friendly taverns that welcome patrons to enjoy a pint of Guiness in a rustic, old-world atmosphere. To experience a historic brewing process, stop in the Porterhouse, which was the city’s first ever brewpub.
Portland, Oregon
Calling all earthy, organic and knowledgeable beer masters – Portland is a haven for craft beers and people who know how to sniff out the best quality. This Pacific Northwest gem offers tons of free tours and tastings of its 28 breweries on a daily basis. Check out Bridgeport to see Portland’s oldest brewery.
Prague
If you’re not stunned by the breathtaking architecture or expansive network of bridges, you’ll at least be pleased by how high quality and low-priced Prague’s beer is. This city holds U Fleku, the world’s oldest brewpub and one of Europe’s most famous beer halls. If you’re up for more of a learning experience, take the 50-mile trek to Plzen – the world’s first beer museum.
San Diego
Lots of craft breweries grace the sunny shores of San Diego – 33 to be exact. Men’s Journal ranked this SoCal hot spot as one of the best beer destinations in the country, and with breweries like Stone Brewing Company, Pizza Port (think pizza, beer, and picnic tables), and the Ale Smith Brewing Company, there’s always enough to go around.
Sapporo
If Japan makes you think “sake,” then think again. Beer is the most popular alcoholic beverage here, and the most popular export as well. Sapporo even has its own beer museum with a beer garden and a daily barbeque.
Mexico City
If visions of sipping cerveza on the beach dance in your head, then all you’ll need to enjoy Mexico City is a Corona and lime. The crisp signature concoction is the perfect answer to summery bars and risqué evenings in this hot Mexican haven.
