Essential Guide to Brevnov Monastery

This site dates back to the year 993. It offers a mix of Baroque beauty and medieval roots. The grounds are large and very well-kept. You will find a church, gardens, and the brewery here. Most people spend at least half a day exploring. It is less crowded than the city center. This makes it perfect for a relaxing afternoon. You can learn more in our full Brevnov Monastery visiting guide before you go.

• Best overall: Brevnov Monastic Brewery
• Best for families: Monastery Gardens
• Best rainy-day: St. Margaret’s Basilica
• Best free: Exploring the outer grounds

9 Best Things to Do at Brevnov Monastery

There is plenty to see beyond just the beer. The site is a UNESCO World Heritage area with deep cultural value. You should plan your route to see the main church and the hidden corners. Each spot offers a unique look at Czech monastic life. Here are the top experiences to enjoy during your visit.

1. Name: Brevnov Monastic Brewery Type: Experience Why go: It is the oldest documented brewery in the Czech Republic. Best for: Beer enthusiasts and history buffs. Where: Located in the former stables. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Moderate for tastings. Getting there: Use tram 22 or 25. Tip: Try the Benedict beer, which is their signature brew.
2. Name: Basilica of St. Margaret Type: Sight Why go: This is a masterpiece of high Baroque architecture. Best for: Art lovers and photographers. Where: The central church on the grounds. Time: 30-45 minutes. Cost: Free to enter (donations welcome). Getting there: Walk from the main monastery gate. Tip: Look up at the stunning ceiling frescoes.
3. Name: The Romanesque Crypt Type: History Why go: See the 10th-century foundations of the original church. Best for: History fans. Where: Underneath the main basilica. Time: 20 minutes. Cost: Included in some guided tours. Getting there: Accessible via the church interior. Tip: Tours of the crypt are usually limited to weekends.
4. Name: Klášterní šenk Type: Experience Why go: One of the best traditional restaurants in Prague. Best for: A hearty Czech lunch. Where: Inside the monastery courtyard. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Central courtyard area. Tip: Make a reservation as it fills up fast.
5. Name: Monastery Gardens Type: Nature Why go: Peaceful terraced gardens with great views. Best for: A quiet walk or reading. Where: Behind the main buildings. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the signs past the brewery. Tip: These are among the best hidden gardens in Prague for escaping crowds.
6. Name: Vojtěška Pavilion Type: Architecture Why go: A beautiful small building over a natural spring. Best for: Romantic photos. Where: In the upper part of the gardens. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free to view from outside. Getting there: Walk uphill through the garden. Tip: This is the legendary spot where the monastery was founded.
7. Name: The Brewery Shop Type: Activity Why go: Buy bottled beers and monastery souvenirs. Best for: Gift shopping. Where: Near the brewery entrance. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Varies by purchase. Getting there: Entrance is clearly marked near the stables. Tip: Check the 2026 labels for seasonal specials.
8. Name: Ladronka Park Type: Nearby activity Why go: A massive park perfect for skating or cycling. Best for: Active travelers. Where: Just a 10-minute walk from the monastery. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free. Getting there: Walk south from the monastery walls. Tip: You can rent skates at the park during summer.
9. Name: Hvězda Summer Pavilion Type: Day trip Why go: A unique star-shaped Renaissance villa in a forest. Best for: Architecture fans and nature walks. Where: About 2km from the monastery. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Small fee for the museum. Getting there: Take a short tram ride or walk. Tip: The surrounding forest is perfect for autumn walks.

Brevnov Monastery Brewery Opening Hours and Tours

Knowing the Brevnov Monastery brewery opening hours and tours helps you avoid disappointment. The brewery shop usually opens daily from late morning until early evening. It often closes for a short break in the afternoon. Most visitors find that weekdays are less busy than weekends. Always check the official notice board for any holiday changes.

Guided tours of the brewery and the monastery are popular. These usually happen on Saturdays and Sundays for individual visitors. Groups can often book private tours during the week. You will see the brewing process and the historic cellars. Most tours last about 90 minutes and include a tasting. You can find more details on Visit Czechia for national travel tips.

To reach the site, you should learn how to get there by tram from the center. Tram 22 is the most iconic route for tourists. It takes about 20 minutes from the Malá Strana area. Get off at the stop named "Břevnovský klášter." The entrance is just a few steps away from the tram stop.