One of the Booziest Cities in Europe Just Banned Pub Crawls

It may be in Europe’s booziest country, but the Czech Republic’s capital of Prague recently implemented a ban on organized nighttime pub crawls, effective from 10 PM to 6 AM. Advocats say it’s part of an effort to reduce issues arising from excessive alcohol consumption and disruptive behavior among tourists in the city known for having the heaviest drinkers in Europe, at an annual average of 481 beer per person.

The measure was approved by city officials in October 2024 and specifically targets pub crawls organized by travel agencies, which often cater to foreign tourists, including those on bachelor parties or graduation trips. Deputy Mayor Jiří Pospíšil told the BBC that it represents the city’s desire to attract a more “refined” visitor, and also cited issues related to public cleanliness and noise concerns.

The ban does not apply to unofficial pub crawls organized by groups of friends — only those organized for commercial purposes or by tourism agencies.

Enforcement of the ban will be carried out by city police, with organizers who violate the ban facing fines of up to 100,000 koruna (approximately $4,300). The move aligns Prague with other European cities that have implemented specific measures to manage the effects of mass tourism. Barcelona banned pub crawls in its city center in 20212 and voted in 2024 to extend the ban to at least 2028. Other cities have also taken measures aimed at addressing unruly tourists, including Amsterdam, Netherlands, which banned smoking cannabis on the streets in tourist-heavy parts of the city center in 2023, and Venice, Italy, which banned large cruise ships in 2021 and instituted a day-trip fee for tourists in 2024.

Prague has a rich and longstanding history with beer, something woven deeply into its culture. Beer brewing in Prague began in monasteries as early as the 10th century, and by the 12th century, breweries had become common across the city. Pilsner beer, now one of the most popular beer styles in the world, originated in Plzeň (Pilsen) in 1842 and quickly became world famous. Pubs in Prague are central to social life, and its beers are among the most affordable in Europe.

Unfortunately, Prague also has a recent history of incidents with inconsiderate tourists, especially in its historic Old Town. The city has attracted large numbers of visitors in the last decade, and hostels will often organize pub crawls for guests, leading to noise disturbances, littering, and overcrowding.

Nearby cities that haven’t banned pub crawls

A ruins bar in Budapest, Hungary. Photo: PHOTOMDP/Shutterstock

While Prague may be doing its best to cut down on pub crawls, there are plenty of other cities in Eastern Europe know for great pub scenes, affordable beer, and deep-rooted beer traditions.

• Belgrade, Serbia: Skadarlija, Belgrade’s bohemian quarter, is filled with old-style kafanas (traditional Serbian taverns), bars, and pubs that offer affordable beers. The Savamala District is also a popular place for pub crawls, given its lively nightclubs and bars along the river. Belgrade’s beer culture is newer but steadily growing, with Jelen likely being its most popular domestic beer.
• Kraków, Poland: The historic Kazimierz district in Kraków is a top destination for pub crawls, with a mix of traditional Polish pubs, stylish bars, and craft breweries blending rich history with a lively bar scene. The neighborhood fell into disrepair after WWII, but saw renewed interest after the fall of communism (and the release of Schindler’s List, much of which was filmed in Kazimierz). Now, it’s once again lively, vibrant, and popular with tourists.

Budapest, Hungary: The Jewish Quarter, especially around Kazinczy Street, is famous for its “ruin bars” — bars housed in abandoned buildings decorated with eclectic and often vintage decor. Szimpla Kert, the most famous ruin pub, is a must-visit, known for its quirky setting and budget-friendly drinks in a unique historical space.

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