With Oktoberfest just around the corner, we thought we’d kick things off by celebrating beer gardens in Germany. “Biergarten” form an integral part of German beer culture. Long festive tables, incredible settings, and of course – yummy beer make these spots drool-worthy.
German summertime isn’t particularly pleasant until late August, when the sun appears, nights are warm, and beer gardens are in full swing (and sunshine).
Who wouldn’t enjoy sipping on a refreshing beer (or four) surrounded by pretty greenery and lively folk in a traditional biergarten? Here are 15 for you to add to your German beer gardens adventure.
How to Visit a Beer Garden Like a Local
At first glance, a sprawling beer garden can seem a little chaotic. But the system is simple and efficient once you understand a few key customs. Following these tips will have you feeling like a local in no time.
- Know the Seating Rules: Beer gardens typically have two types of seating. The tables with tablecloths are usually part of a serviced section (Bedienung), where a waiter will take your order. The plain wooden tables are for self-service (Selbstbedienung). This is where the classic beer garden experience happens.
- Embrace Communal Tables: In the self-service area, it’s completely normal to share a table with strangers. If you see an open spot, it’s polite to ask, “Ist hier noch frei?” (Is this spot free?). It’s a great way to strike up a conversation.
- Understand the Pfand (Deposit) System: When you get your beer, you’ll pay a small deposit (Pfand), usually one or two euros, for the heavy glass mug (Maß). You’ll get your deposit back when you return the empty mug to the designated counter.
- You Can Often Bring Your Own Food: One of the oldest and most beloved beer garden traditions is that guests are allowed to bring their own food (Brotzeit). You’ll see many locals unpacking their own bread, cheeses, and salads. However, you must always buy your drinks from the beer garden itself.
15 Must-Visit Beer Gardens in Germany
1. Schwabengarten – Stuttgart
Schwabengarten is one of the largest beer gardens in the area – and one of the most kid-friendly locations as well. When it comes to the best beer gardens Germany has to offer for parents, this is the one. Linked to the Schonbuch Brauhaus, it features a colorful playground for children, so the adults can sit back and enjoy a well-deserved beer or two.
2. Beer Garden Odonien – Cologne
A beer garden after every art lover’s heart. Situated amongst metal sculptures, fire installations, and water features, and found in Cologne’s uber-cool Ehrenfeld district, this beer garden was created by industrial artist Odo Rumpf. Keep your eye out for concerts, open-air cinema, and other events that happen here!
3. Schillergarten – Dresden
The location alone easily makes the Schillergarten the most beautiful beer garden in Dresden. Nestled in the villa quarter Blasewitz, the traditional house is adjacent to the Elbe bridge “Blaues Wunder”. Join the other 850 people and relax just like Fredrich Schiller did over 2 centuries ago.
4. Spezial-Keller – Bamberg
Translating quite literally into “Special Cellar”, this beer garden offers a different perspective for beer garden goers. Not too far from Bamberg’s old town, Spezial Keller impresses visitors with wonderful views of Bamberg Cathedral and Michaelsberg Monastery. Make sure you try the spicy smoked beer, a local specialty.
5. Altona’s Balkon – Hamburg
Hamburg gives off major maritime vibes, so why not enjoy your cold beer overlooking the harbor at Altona’s Balkon Café & Biergarten. Tucked away in a park of the same name, this spot is the epitome of German beer gardens. Order a classic Holsten beer, grab a snack, skip the tables, and sit on the grass.
6. Hafenhalle – Konstanz
If the first thing that comes to mind when you think: beer gardens Germany is a cozy atmosphere on a wooden terrace between a lake and a charming little town, then Hafenhalle (Harbor Hall) is perfect for you! This biergarten in Konstanz offers six kinds of freshly draught beer and hearty food from the surrounding area around Lake Constance.
7. Gut Kaltenbrunn – Lake Tegernsee
The Blauberge, Wallberg, and Setzberg mountains border one of Bavaria’s cleanest lakes: the Tegernsee, and the Gut Kaltenbrunn estate makes the most of the view with its panoramic beer garden. Located around 50 km south of Munich, this is the perfect spot to enjoy Bavarian hospitality and, of course some of the best beer Germany has to offer.
8. Summit Restaurant Gipfelalm – Zugspitze Mountain
All beer gardens in Germany seem to have key similarities: outdoor seating, a pretty view, and no snow. Except for this one: Summit Restaurant Gipfelalm located at an altitude of 2,962 meters (9,718 feet) on Germany’s highest mountain, Zugspitze Mountain. The country’s highest beer garden receives visitors by cable car or on foot and welcomes them with a pint of beer, a summit cross, and a breath-taking view.
9. Biergarten Stadtwaldhaus – Krefeld
Possibly one of the most idyllic beer gardens Germany has to offer. The Biergarten Stadtwaldhaus is located in the middle of the Krefelder city forest, just next to a small lake. The municipal park even offers recreational activities for the whole family, like golf, playgrounds, pedal boats, and a horse racing track.
10. Luftgarten – Berlin
Luftgarten in Berlin was once an old airport ground and is now one of the largest beer gardens Germany is home to. And also one of the coolest spots in Berlin. The endless lawn is dotted with tables, benches, lounge chairs, and picnic blankets. Order a Radler (beer mixed with Sprite) and a currywurst (sausage with a spicy curry sauce and a side of fries). Then rent a bike and pedal around the old airport grounds.
11. Hirschgarten – Munich
Munich boasts more beer gardens than any other city in Germany. And Hirschgarten is the biggest (not just in Germany, probably in the world too). Seating around 8,000 people, the restaurant and Biergarten date back to 1791 – drink your way through Germany’s beer history. Settle under the chestnut trees and enjoy traditional Bavarian food, 1-liter pours, and a lively atmosphere.
12. Augustiner Keller – Munich
Augustiner Keller is a traditional beer garden but also features an expansive indoor hall, complete with a conventional wood interior and stage for live performances. This is the second-largest beer garden in Munich – seating up to 7,000 thirsty guests. Always buzzing with life and brimming with beer and delicious baked Brezels (pretzels) – what more could you want?
13. Café am Neuen See – Berlin
Café am Neuen See in Berlin is a city favorite located in the famous Tiergarten Park zoo (next to the Spanish embassy). Surrounded by the forest and a lake, this spot is bustling with people every afternoon till late when the fairy lights illuminate the trees. Make sure you try their Leberkäse (traditional meatloaf)!
14. Prater Biergarten – Berlin
Why not visit the oldest, most active Biergarten in Berlin? Prater is located in the super trendy Prenzlauer Berg neighborhood and has been serving patrons since 1837. Old chestnut trees shade this quiet spot in the heart of the city, where both Berliners and tourists alike meet to enjoy happy hour.
15. Zur Sonne – Berlin
Making up part of the historic restaurant Zur Sonne, here’s another beer garden that offers a charming escape from the bustle of the city life in Berlin. Make sure you try the baked goods from the brezelbuben (pretzel pals). Brezelbuben have been strolling around Biergarten for centuries, supplying the drinking crowds with food back when pubs didn’t offer food. Today only a handful of pretzel peddlers stroll the streets and beer gardens.
The Best Beer in Germany: What to Try
Now that you know where to go, you probably want to know all about the best beer Germany has to offer. Here’s our list of must-try German beers.
- Weihenstephan Hefe Weissbier: Cloudy, Bavarian-style wheat brew. Its light, yeasty taste makes for a refreshing drink before a meal or with dinner.
- Erdinger Kristall: The crystal-clear version of the traditional Hefeweizen. The perfect thirst quencher. It’s the kind of beer you can serve with a lemon wedge.
- Spaten Oktoberfest: A sweet, brown beer with a mild malt taste and roasted notes. This beer is traditionally brewed in March and served around Oktoberfest.
- Aecht Schlenkerla Rauchbier: Harder to find than most beers. A sweet, malty beer brewed by exposing the malt to intense beech smoke. Best enjoyed with a hot meal.
- Paulaner Salvator Doppel Bock: A fine example of bottom-fermented beer. This beer is darker and richer than a regular bock. Doppel bock is packed with big flavors and has aromas of toasted spice, caramel, and burnt sugar.
- Schneider Weisse Aventinus Eisbock: Made by freezing off a portion of water in the brew and removing it. This increases the beer’s body, flavor, and alcohol content. A heavy nutty beer with hints of plum and caramel.
- Augustiner Hell: Unlike the name, this is a cool beer. Mild, sparkling, and dry – it’s easy to drink, and perfect for pre-party, on-the-go drinks.
- Gaffel Kölsch: A Cologne favourite. This is a light, refreshing beer brewed only in and around the city. Less bitter than a pilsner, a perfect balance between fruity and hoppy. Only served in small 200 ml glasses.
- Berliner Kindl Weisse: Classic summer drink in Berlin. A tart, tangy beer created from deliberately soured grain. Traditionally served in a large, boule-like glass and colored green (with a shot of sweet woodruff syrup) or red (with raspberry).
- Radeberger Pils: The epitome of a classic German pils. An easy-drinking beer, that pairs well with every meal. Has a strong hop flavor that gives it a herby taste.
What You Should Know Before Visiting German Beer Gardens
There are some need-to-knows when it comes to German beer gardens. Luckily, we’ve got you covered.
- Usually there are no waiters and communal seating arrangements. So pick a spot (even if you’re sharing the table with other people) and settle in. Make sure you ask if the seating is available before you sit down.
- Some biergartens have staff that take orders, but for the most part there’s a central beer pouring station where you order and pay for your drinks. You’ll also need to transport the food and drinks to your table.
- Cash is king in Germany and cards may not be accepted at every Biergarten.
- You can bring your own food to Biergarten since they don’t all serve food. Sit at a table without a tablecloth and enjoy your own little grocery-store picnic.
- Make sure you know a little German. It will definitely come in handy! Prost means cheers. The most important words at a Biergarten: Ein Mass Bier bitter. This means One more beer, please!
What to Eat: A Guide to Classic Beer Garden Food
While you can bring your own snacks, trying the food from the self-service stalls is part of the fun. The offerings are simple, delicious, and designed to pair perfectly with beer.
- Brezn (Giant Pretzel): Soft, chewy, and lightly salted, these giant pretzels are the ultimate beer garden snack.
- Obatzda: A savory Bavarian cheese spread made from Camembert, butter, and spices like paprika. It’s perfect for slathering on a pretzel or some dark rye bread.
- Hendl (Roast Chicken): A half-roast chicken with crispy, seasoned skin is a beer garden staple. It’s simple, satisfying, and delicious.
- Wurstsalat (Sausage Salad): A refreshing salad made from sliced sausage (usually Lyoner), onions, and pickles, dressed in a simple vinaigrette.
- Steckerlfisch (Fish on a Stick): Especially popular in Bavarian beer gardens near lakes, this is a whole fish (often mackerel) grilled on a stick over an open flame.
A Note on Staying Healthy and Hydrated
A long afternoon in a beer garden is one of Germany’s greatest pleasures, but it’s wise to keep a few practical health tips in mind so you can enjoy the experience fully.
- Pace Yourself: German beer is often stronger than what you might be used to, and it’s typically served in large half-liter or full-liter mugs. It’s easy to drink more than you intend, so take your time and savor it.
- Stay Hydrated with Water: The sun and alcohol are a dehydrating combination. Do as the locals do and order a water (Wasser) to drink alongside your beer.
- Watch Out for Wasps: In the late summer months, wasps can be a common nuisance in outdoor dining areas across Germany. Keep your food and drinks covered when you’re not eating, and try not to panic or swat at them, as that can make them more aggressive.
- Use Sun Protection: While the chestnut trees provide wonderful shade, many beer gardens have large, sunny patches. If you’re visiting during the day, be sure to wear sunscreen.
If you have an allergic reaction to a bee or wasp sting, or if you start to feel unwell from the heat or alcohol, it’s important to seek medical advice. With the Air Doctor app, you can quickly find a local doctor in Germany who can provide guidance and care.
In Short
The German beer garden is more than just a place to drink; it’s a cultural experience.
- It’s a communal, relaxed space for everyone.
- Look for self-service areas with plain wooden tables for the most authentic experience.
- You must buy drinks there, but you can often bring your own food.
- Remember the Pfand (deposit) system for your beer mug.
- Pace yourself and stay hydrated to enjoy your afternoon responsibly.
Whether you’re in a bustling city center or a quiet park, visiting a beer garden is a perfect way to experience a beloved German tradition. Prost!
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FAQs
In a serviced area, waiters take your order at tables often covered with tablecloths. In the self-service area, you order your own food and drinks, typically sit at plain wooden tables, and can often bring your own food.
Yes, in the self-service sections of most traditional German beer gardens, you are welcome to bring your own food (Brotzeit). However, you must always purchase your drinks from the beer garden itself.
Tipping in Germany is customary for good service, usually rounding up or adding 5-10% to the bill. In self-service beer gardens, tipping is less common since you are serving yourself.
