Go on a tipsy trip: The world’s 7 top beer cities, the closest just 2.5 hours from Taiwan

Traveling to Brno in the Czech Republic, you’ll find locals love gathering around St. James Church to enjoy a good pint of beer. (Photo provided by Booking.com) ★ Newsletter reminds you: Drinking in excess is harmful to health.

With summer temperatures soaring, many are craving an ice-cold beer to savor that refreshing, thirst-quenching feeling. A global hotel booking website today released the “World’s 7 Top Beer Cities,” recommending travelers take a tipsy trip. Whether it's the ancient beer cellars of the Czech Republic, the modern craft beer hubs of the U.S., or Qingdao just a 2.5-hour flight away from Taiwan, cities around the world offer diverse beer cultures waiting to be explored and enjoyed.

● Pilsen, Czech Republic — Witness classic beer craftsmanship

In 1842, the first Pilsner beer was brewed at Pilsner Urquell Brewery here, making it a center of brewing excellence. Today, the brewery offers tours where visitors can explore underground cellars and taste freshly tapped Pilsner straight from the barrel. Nearby accommodation includes the “Courtyard by Marriott Pilsen,” located close to the brewery. After a day of travel, it provides a comfortable place to rest, and don’t miss out on trying a great beer at the popular Pils’n’Grill restaurant inside the hotel.

● Brno, Czech Republic — Sip and unwind

Brno is the birthplace of Starobrno beer and a holy land for world-class brews. Here, locals gather around St. James Church to enjoy the classic light Starobrno beer, Ležák, as well as the malty dark beer, Černé. For those who prefer some solo drinking time, the highly rated “Avanti Hotel” is a favorite among travelers. Its rooftop outdoor hot tub is the perfect spot to relax with a drink.

● Bamberg, Germany — A city with a centuries-old love for beer

Bamberg boasts the highest density of breweries per square kilometer in the world and is a city truly passionate about beer. All local breweries adhere to the Bavarian Reinheitsgebot, a 500-year-old purity law requiring that beer be made only from water, malt, yeast, and hops. Be sure to try Bamberg’s local smoked amber lager, a rich flavor that’s addictive after just one sip. After enjoying the laid-back nightlife in Bamberg, stay comfortably at the “Bräuhaus am Dom Hotel” in the city center, which also offers complimentary breakfast.

The tourist brewery in Czech “Pilsen” offers visitors underground cellar tours and tastings of fresh Pilsner beer. (Photo provided by Booking.com) ★ Newsletter reminds you: Drinking in excess is harmful to health.

The rooftop outdoor hot tub at Avanti Hotel in Brno is the perfect choice for relaxing with a drink. (Photo provided by Booking.com) ★ Newsletter reminds you: Drinking in excess is harmful to health.

● Bruges, Belgium — Unveil a passionate beer feast

From abbey beers and stouts to triple hoppy brews and fruit beers, Belgium offers an overwhelming variety. Bruges is even the birthplace of cherry beer. Head to any local bar to sample this delicious brew. The lively ‘t Brugs Beertje café features a wide collection of Belgian beers. Moreover, the “Mr. Ernest Hotel” is a restored 14th-century mansion that once housed a brewery. Now redesigned, it offers a unique and comfortable stay.

● Portland, Oregon, USA — Sip top-tier craft beer

If you love India Pale Ales (IPAs), Portland is your paradise. Known as the craft beer capital, the city has more breweries than almost anywhere else and a vibrant bar culture that rivals its European counterparts. Enjoy a hoppy beer at one of the bustling bars, or visit Cascade and Hopworks breweries to learn about Portland’s rich craft brewing history. Also recommended: “The Ernest Hotel,” a stylishly designed accommodation with a rooftop terrace offering great views and its own craft beer taproom.

● Leuven, Belgium — Pilgrimage to world-famous breweries

Home to the world’s largest brewer, InBev, Leuven offers a wealth of craft beers for beer enthusiasts, especially the popular Ochtend Kriek, St. Adriaansbier, and Nostra Domus. Though choices abound, head to the lively beer square and ask locals for their secret favorites. Booking.com also recommends the conveniently located “Getaway Studios Leuven,” fully equipped and centrally situated—just a short walk from the beer square.

● Qingdao, China — Experience unique Eastern flavors

Every August, millions gather here to celebrate Qingdao’s grand International Beer Festival. Though similar to Germany’s Munich Oktoberfest, it adds plenty of Chinese flair, featuring German sausage beer stands, Bavarian bands, and unique Peking opera performances, creating a one-of-a-kind atmosphere. Sponsored by Tsingtao Brewery, whose factory is located in Qingdao, the festival includes a museum open year-round. After the festivities, check into the “Yan Xiong Yuelai Hotel,” which offers an indoor pool and sauna for a comfortable stay.

★ Newsletter reminds you: Drinking in excess is harmful to health.