Munich's Iconic Beer Gardens: A Taste of Bavarian Tradition

It should come as no surprise that the home of Oktoberfest is probably the best place in the world to down a pint… Bavaria is well-known for its brewing culture and the beer gardens in Munich are a huge part of this rich tradition.

The history of beer gardens in Munich dates back to the early 19th century when breweries served beer in their gardens during the summer months, hence the name “beer garden.” The breweries stored barrels of beer in underground cellars to keep the beverage cool in the absence of refrigerators. Chestnut trees were planted above the cellars to keep the area shady and cool while the roots of the trees kept moisture in the earth so the cellars would remain cool.

In addition to this, the beer gardens of Munich were unique in that they were typically located in public parks and open to the public, a practice that still holds to this day.

Beer Gardens In Munich

Munich’s beer gardens are not just places to drink the amber nectar and enjoy a scrumptious plate of traditional Bavarian food. They are also places where locals and tourists come together and enjoy each other’s company in the vibrant city of Munich. On warm summer evenings, most of these beer gardens are filled with patrons enjoying catching up with old friends, making new ones, listening to live music, and playing traditional Bavarian games.

Unsurprisingly, beer gardens have become an integral part of Bavarian culture. They are where you can learn about the history and traditions of Bavarian beer culture while literally enjoying a taste of that tradition! The various beer gardens in Munich offer different types of beer so you can explore as many as you’d like and discover a favourite; and even learn about the brewing process while you fill up on yummy, traditional Bavarian food.

In addition to big, popular beer gardens in Munich, there are also many smaller and more intimate ones that are worth a visit, all listed below. Some of these aren’t far from our KING’s Hotels so you can slip out for a refreshing brew and return to the superior comfort of your hotel room in very little time!

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Hofbräuhaus München

In the heart of the beautiful city of Munich lies the Hofbräuhaus beer garden, one of the largest and most famous beer gardens in Munich. With space enough to accommodate up to 8,000 patrons at a time, it’s no wonder people flock there to enjoy the sense of community; along with the delicious traditional Bavarian food served there and beers from the Hofbräuhaus brewery.

Augustiner-Keller

This beer garden in Munich is one of the most popular ones of its kind amongst locals and tourists alike. Its prime location in the city centre is one reason for its popularity, as well as the cosy atmosphere of the place.

In addition to enjoying some of the best beers on tap in Munich at Augustiner-Keller, you can enjoy delectable meals of traditional Bavarian food such as sausages, roast pork, and sauerkraut.

Paulaner am Nockherberg

For the best of both worlds, the Paulaner am Nockherberg beer garden in Munich is the place to be. Not only do you get to enjoy a refreshing, cold mug of foamy Bavarian goodness, but you can also explore the Paulaner brewery and learn the brewing process too!

As you tour the brewery during your visit to the beer garden, you can sample the beers brewed there and wind up your visit with some delicious traditional Bavarian food.

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Chinesischer Turm (Chinese Tower)

If you’d like to enjoy your Bavarian beer in a blissful setting, you’ll love the Chinesischer Turm beer garden. Located in the beautiful English Garden, the traditional Chinese pagoda has a warm, homely feel to it, accentuated by the fine meals served there – along with the all-famous Bavarian beer of course!

Hirschgarten

Visiting Munich with your family? Then you can enjoy some family time at the Hirschgarten beer garden located in the royal deer park at Nymphenden. This spot is great for a family picnic as the establishment also offers take-away services, along with the local beers on tap.

Tips For Enjoying the Beer Gardens In Munich

Beer gardens in Munich are the best place to enjoy an authentic German biergarten experience. With the following tips on “how to beer garden,” you can experience this part of Bavarian tradition in the best way possible.

Get a meal

Beer goes down so much better with a plate of mouthwatering Bavarian food. Whether you order from the establishment or you’re at any of the beer gardens that allow you to bring your own food, traditional Bavarian cuisine tastes even more delectable when you have it alongside your beer.

Don’t sit alone

Although it might seem odd to sit with strangers at a table, joining other patrons is said to be the norm and a custom in Bavaria. It allows you to enjoy the company of new people and learn more about Bavarian culture and traditions from them.

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Don’t empty your glass

Although you might be tempted to drink every last sip of your beer, it’s actually customary to leave the last mouthful in your glass. It even has a name, “Noagerl,” and drinking it makes you a ‘Noagerlzulzer,’ which most believe is an insult.

Check reviews

With so many beer gardens to choose from, picking one on a whim can be quite difficult. However, our list and Google reviews of beer gardens in Munich can help you find the best place to go to enjoy the local brews. Whether you want a quiet, intimate place or somewhere lively and vibrant, there are plenty of options to choose from.

Last Word

The world-famous Bavarian beer culture is not just about drinking beer; it’s actually more about the social aspect of the practice. In Bavaria, drinking beer is a social activity that brings people together. Tourists and locals alike build a great bond as they chat and laugh over beers. The beer gardens in Munich are some of the best places not only to have a good time in the city, but also to learn its history and culture. Prost (cheers)!

Featured image source: Pixabay