In fact, it’s essential that you go and sample the delightful golden nectars that Europe has to offer. From Bavaria to Brussels, Europe is the capital of the world when it comes to beer. So open up another bottle and get planning, as in a few months you could be exploring the enchanting beer tents of Europe’s premier beer festivals.

Oktoberfest, Munich

This is the ultimate beer festival. They don’t come any bigger and they don’t get any better. So don some rather fetching lederhosen and join over six million people as they flock to Munich to celebrate Oktoberfest. Running from September 20 – October 5, the festival has been a much-loved fixture on the streets of Bavaria’s capital over the past 170 years. The city is alive with beer themed activities and for between 8-10 euros you can indulge in a beer stein or two, from one of Munich’s six historic (and tasty) breweries, in a bustling beer tent. A word of warning: when it comes to accommodation during that period it can be a total nightmare in terms of space and money. So if you want a piece of advice make sure you book it at least 90 days earlier through a site like Venere.com that offers many different types of places (from hostels to vacation rentals) where to rest your head during hangovers.

Czech Beer Festival, Prague

To say the Czech’s like their beer would be an understatement – it’s a national obsession. They drink more beer per capita than anywhere else in the world. And for good reason – they brew some of the best beer known to man and you can try them at the Czech Beer Festival in Prague (a city where water is more expensive then beer). You can join tens of thousands of likeminded beer lovers for this 17 day festival held in May and sample over 70 types of Czech beer. The party lasts well into the early hours of the morning with each tent set up with entertainment. Interestingly, this festival even uses its own currency, the Tolar. Prices in the Czech Republic are generally very low for English standards so hotel prices should not be a problem, it is the flights that should be carefully taken into consideration since they could be expensive in that period.

Cannstatter Volksfest, Stuttgart

Germany’s second largest beer festival is a charming event that is held in a fairground towards the end of September. Attracting over four million people during its three week duration, the Stuttgart based festival has your usual mix of great local beer and traditional food but on top of that it also has thrilling rides. Amongst other activities, the festival has a traditional parade, two family days with reduced tickets and a vibrant flea market. It also has a spectacular firework display to end the year’s festivities. But mainly, amazing German beer.

Great British Beer Festival, London

If you’re serious about your ale, then the Great British Beer Festival (GBBF), which is organised by the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA), is the place for you. Situated in picturesque Olympia and held from August 12th through the 16th, GBBF attracts over 50,000 people to taste more than 900 ales, ciders and foreign beers. It’s labelled as the biggest pub in the world, and who wouldn’t want to try that out?!

Belgian Beer Weekend, Brussels

Forget the chocolate, this is all about Belgium’s second love. Over the weekend of September 5 – 7, the brewers of Belgium invite you to the Market Square at the Grand Place to indulge in their passion – beer perfection. Here, you can chat to knowledgeable beer enthusiasts whilst enjoying the delights of over 50 different brewers in a stunning location.So there you go, five of Europe’s premier beer festivals. Each offers a unique experience but all share a common love of beer and all guarantee you a sore head and a trip to remember…well, maybe if you take pictures.

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