World’s Best Pubs: The Ultimate Boozy Bucket List

Intro: Why Your Next Trip Should Be a Pub Crawl, Not a Museum Tour

Let’s face it—tourist traps are overrated. You could spend a day admiring ancient ruins, or you could spend a night sipping a perfectly balanced IPA in a centuries‑old tavern that smells like history, spilled lager, and the faint hint of regret. If you love booze, memes, and the occasional existential crisis, this guide to where are the best pubs in the world is your new bible. We’ll serve you a curated list of watering holes that are as iconic as the “This is fine” dog and as unfiltered as a Reddit AMA. Buckle up, because we’re about to turn your wanderlust into a full‑blown pub‑crawling pilgrimage.

Europe: The Cradle of Hops and Heroic Hangovers

Europe is basically the OG of pub culture. From cobblestone alleys that echo with clinking glasses to modern taprooms that look like they were designed by a TikTok influencer on a caffeine binge, the continent has something for every thirsty traveler.

  • London, England – The Churchill Arms: This floral‑faced pub is a living meme. Think “Victorian garden meets craft beer” while you chug a pint of locally brewed bitter. Bonus: the back garden is so lush you’ll swear you’ve entered a secret garden level of a video game.
  • Dublin, Ireland – The Brazen Head: Claiming the title of Ireland’s oldest pub (est. 1198), it’s the perfect place to practice your Irish accent while downing a Guinness that’s smoother than a freshly buttered meme.
  • Munich, Germany – Hofbräuhaus: If you’ve ever wanted to feel like a Bavarian king, this is the spot. Order a Maß of beer, and you’ll be served with a side of lederhosen‑induced confidence.
  • Brussels, Belgium – Delirium Café: Over 2,000 beers on tap and a décor that looks like a psychedelic fever dream. It’s basically the Wikipedia of beer, but you can actually drink the articles.

Pro tip: When you’re in Europe, always ask the bartender for the “local secret.” You’ll get a story, a free sample, and possibly a new Instagram caption that reads, “Found the best pub in insert city – no filter needed.”

United Kingdom: The Land of Pints, Pub Quizzes, and Unsolicited Life Advice

If you’ve ever watched a British sitcom, you know pubs are the backdrop for everything from heartbreak to heroic karaoke. Here’s a quick rundown of the UK’s most meme‑worthy establishments:

  1. The Eagle and Child (Oxford) – Where J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis plotted Middle‑Earth over pints. If you can’t find a dragon on the menu, you’re probably looking at the wrong place.
  2. The Spaniards Inn (London) – A haunted pub that’s been featured in countless ghost stories and, more importantly, in the occasional “I’m not scared, I’m just here for the ale” TikTok.
  3. The Crown Liquor Saloon (Belfast) – A Victorian masterpiece that feels like stepping into a period drama. The stained‑glass windows are so fancy you’ll want to frame them… or just drink more.
  4. The Old Bridge (Glasgow) – Known for its “no‑pretension” vibe and a beer list that could make a hop‑head weep with joy.

Need a break from the pub‑hopping? Check out our Make Your Own Beer guide for a DIY night that’ll make your friends think you’re a home‑brew wizard.

North America: From Dive Bars to Craft Kingdoms

The United States and Canada have turned the humble pub into an art form. Whether you’re looking for a dive that feels like a scene from “The Hangover” or a sleek taproom that could be featured on a Netflix documentary, we’ve got you covered.

  • San Diego, CA – Ballast Point Brewing Company: This place is the holy grail of West Coast hops. Their Sculpin IPA is so crisp you’ll hear angels sing… or maybe that’s just the sound of your own bragging.
  • Portland, OR – McMenamins Kennedy School: A former elementary school turned pub. You can literally climb a ladder to the rooftop bar and feel like a kid who finally grew up.
  • Toronto, Canada – Bar Hop: A craft beer haven where the beer list changes faster than a TikTok trend. Perfect for those who love to keep their palate guessing.
  • New York City, NY – The Dead Rabbit: A cocktail‑heavy speakeasy that serves whiskey with a side of New York attitude. The vibe is so sophisticated you’ll feel like you’ve been cast in a “Mad Men” reboot.

If you’re thinking about selling your own brew after a night of inspiration, why not Grow Your Business With Strategies Beer and turn that hobby into a cash‑flowing empire?

Asia: The Rising Stars of Pub Culture

Asia might be known for sushi and karaoke, but its pub scene is quietly crushing the competition. Here are the hotspots that will make you forget you ever thought Europe had a monopoly on good beer.

  1. Tokyo, Japan – Craft Beer Market: A tiny bar with a massive selection of Japanese craft brews. It’s like a sushi bar, but for hops.
  2. Seoul, South Korea – The Hand and Malt: A British‑style pub that serves a pint of ale alongside kimchi fried rice. The cultural mash‑up is as delicious as it sounds.
  3. Bangkok, Thailand – Mikkeller Bangkok: A Danish import that brings Nordic craft vibes to the Land of Smiles. Their “Beer & Pizza” combo is the ultimate meme‑worthy dinner.
  4. Shanghai, China – The Rooster: A rooftop pub that offers a panoramic view of the city’s skyline and a beer list that could rival any European tavern.

Feeling adventurous? Pair your Asian pub crawl with a quick visit to Sell your beer online through Dropt.beer – the beer distribution marketplace that makes global shipping as easy as ordering a pizza.

Australia & New Zealand: Down‑Under Pub Legends

When you think of Australia, you probably picture beaches and kangaroos. But the real treasure lies in the pubs that line the coastlines, each offering a unique blend of laid‑back vibes and killer brews.

  • Sydney, Australia – The Lord Nelson Brewery Hotel: Australia’s oldest pub‑brewery, where you can sample a beer brewed on‑site while watching the harbor. It’s basically the “Lord of the Rings” of Aussie pubs.
  • Melbourne, Australia – The Everleigh: A speakeasy‑style bar that feels like stepping into a 1920s film noir. Their cocktail menu is so good you’ll consider switching from beer to booze (just kidding, keep the beer).
  • Auckland, New Zealand – The Conservatory: A rooftop bar with a view that makes you forget you’re drinking a craft lager at 2 am.
  • Wellington, New Zealand – The Rogue and Vagabond: A quirky spot that serves a rotating selection of local brews and a menu that reads like a meme collection.

Want to know how to create a pub experience at home? Our Custom Beer service can help you design a brew that’s as unique as your travel stories.

Hidden Gems: The Pubs That Only Locals Know (And You Should Too)

If you’re tired of the same old tourist traps, here are a few under‑the‑radar pubs that will make you feel like a true insider:

  • La Bodeguita del Medio (Córdoba, Spain) – A tiny tavern tucked away behind a flamenco school. Their sherry‑infused tapas are the perfect companion to a glass of red.
  • The White Hart (Cambridge, UK) – A 16th‑century pub that’s so authentic you’ll hear the ghosts of scholars debating philosophy over pints.
  • Bar 9 (Prague, Czech Republic) – A hidden basement bar that serves the world’s best Pilsner. It’s like finding the cheat code for beer.
  • The Drunken Duck (Portland, OR, USA) – A micro‑brewery that only opens on Thursdays. If you’re not there, you’ll miss out on their legendary “Duck Bomb” stout.

These spots are perfect for the meme‑loving traveler who wants to brag on social media with the caption, “Found the best pub in city and nobody knew it existed.”

How to Choose the Perfect Pub for Your Next Adventure

Choosing a pub isn’t just about the beer; it’s about the experience, the vibe, and the stories you’ll tell later. Here’s a quick cheat‑sheet to help you decide:

  1. Atmosphere: Do you want a cozy fireplace or a rooftop view? Look for reviews that mention “ambiance” and “vibe.”
  2. Beer Selection: If you’re a hop‑head, prioritize places with rotating tap lists. If you’re a malt lover, look for pubs that serve stouts and porters.
  3. Food Pairings: A good pub should have food that complements the beer. Think fish and chips in the UK, pretzels in Germany, and tacos in Mexico.
  4. Local Reputation: Ask locals. If a bartender tells you the best beer is “the one you’re drinking right now,” you’ve found a winner.
  5. Memes Worthy: Does the place have a quirky sign, a legendary story, or a photo‑op that will make your followers double‑tap?

And remember, no matter how fancy the pub, the best part of any night out is the stories you collect. If you need a place to share those stories, head back to our Contact page and let us know which pub made your list.

Conclusion: Your Pub‑Crawl Passport Is Ready

From the historic taverns of Dublin to the neon‑lit bars of Tokyo, the world is full of pubs that are just waiting for you to walk in, order a pint, and become part of their legend. So stop scrolling through endless travel blogs and start planning a trip that will make your Instagram followers jealous and your liver slightly concerned.

Ready to turn your pub‑crawling dreams into reality? Click here to explore more strategies, book your next adventure, and maybe even design your own brew while you’re at it. Remember: the world’s best pubs aren’t just places to drink—they’re the ultimate meme generators, conversation starters, and unforgettable experiences. Cheers to that, you glorious, hop‑obsessed wanderer!

PS: If you loved this guide, consider sharing it on Reddit, Twitter, or any platform where your friends can appreciate the perfect blend of sarcasm, SEO, and suds. And hey, if you ever decide to sell your own beer, don’t forget to Sell your beer online through Dropt.beer—because nothing says “I’m a grown‑up” like a well‑crafted brew and a solid distribution partner.

Published
Categorized as Insights

By Louis Pasteur

Louis Pasteur is a passionate researcher and writer dedicated to exploring the science, culture, and craftsmanship behind the world’s finest beers and beverages. With a deep appreciation for fermentation and innovation, Louis bridges the gap between tradition and technology. Celebrating the art of brewing while uncovering modern strategies that shape the alcohol industry. When not writing for Strategies.beer, Louis enjoys studying brewing techniques, industry trends, and the evolving landscape of global beverage markets. His mission is to inspire brewers, brands, and enthusiasts to create smarter, more sustainable strategies for the future of beer.

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