Beer Gardens in Munich 2024

One of the best ways to relax, refresh, and enjoy the shade on hot summer days in Bavaria is to visit a beer garden

Best time: May–October

Beer garden season in Bavaria starts in May and lasts till October. There is a countless variety of beer gardens to choose from. Traditionally they are organised under big chestnut trees, which provide perfect shade in the summer. Thousands of people, locals and tourists alike spend lots of time there with friends.

Beer gardens also serve excellent Bavarian food, like different kinds of sausages or grilled fish. You can also bring your own picnic with you. Various beer gardens serve different kinds of beer, but whatever you try you can rest assured it will be delicious. In the southern part of Bavaria people love beer gardens, while in the North they prefer beer cellars.

Around 180 beer gardens can be found in Munich. The largest of them is Munich’s Hirschgarten, which can cater around 8,000 people. It's the largest in Europe, but luckily it's not as loud as you may expect. Due to its location, close to the main park, the atmosphere is quite calm. One more attraction there is a deer pen, where you can also feed animals.

Practical info

What is the best time to visit Munich’s beer gardens?

From May to October, visitors can enjoy Munich's beer gardens. At this time, visitors are surrounded by the big chestnut trees, traditional Bavarian food, and delicious beer. Tourists and locals can relax in the warm and sunny weather while immersing themselves in the Bavarian culture. May is the start of the beer garden season, and it lasts till October in Bavaria.

Where can we find beer gardens in Munich?

There are up to 180 beer gardens to choose from in Munich, Bavaria. Some of the most popular beer gardens are Chinesischer Turm, Hirschgarten, Augustiner Keller, and Viktualienmarkt. Beer gardens are usually found in parks, so visitors can enjoy the outdoors while relaxing and drinking beer. Munich is known for having many beer gardens that offer traditional Bavarian food, beer, and a relaxed atmosphere.

What are the traditional foods served in beer gardens?

Traditional Bavarian foods are the stars of beer garden menus in Munich. Visitors can expect great sausages, pork knuckle, roasted or grilled chicken, and sauerkraut. Some places also have vegetarian and vegan food options. While some beer gardens allow visitors to bring their food, it is advisable to buy food on-site to support local businesses and enjoy the full Bavarian experience.

When does the beer garden season start and end in Bavaria?

In Bavaria, the beer garden season starts in May and ends in October. Visitors can enjoy traditional Bavarian food and beer while relaxing under the big chestnut trees. During winter, the cold weather forces beer gardens to close, but visitors can still find menu options in indoor pubs and restaurants. Summer is the perfect season to immerse oneself in the relaxed atmosphere of Bavarian culture.

What is the special attraction of Munich’s Hirschgarten beer garden?

The biggest beer garden in Europe is Munich's Hirschgarten, offering seating for up to 8,000 visitors. Hirschgarten's deer park, the only one in a beer garden in Munich, offers family-friendly activities like feeding the animals. Its location next to the park ensures a peaceful atmosphere and a memorable dining experience. Although vast, Hirschgarten is not as noisy as you may expect it to be, providing the perfect spot to enjoy a cold beer with family and friends.