Floating Beer Garden (Isar Floßfahrt) in Munich 2025
Enjoy a journey on a traditional raft with music, dancing, and lots of fun
Best time: May–mid-September
River rafting in Bavaria has a long history dating back to the 12th century. It was the main mode of transportation for goods and people. In those times a trip on the river Isar could take you as far as Vienna or Budapest. Starting from the 19th century these rafts became a tourist attraction. Nowadays it is a great summer activity. The ride starts in Wolfratshausen, on the outskirts of Munich, and ends in München-Thalkirchen.
This trip is not only about a nice way to spend a day on water, but also entertainment. As you travel down the Isar river accompanied by musicians, beer, and snacks you also discover the Bavarian lifestyle in the completely new way. You can sing, dance, or just enjoy the landscapes on your way. The raft itself looks just the same as it did hundreds of years ago—a huge 18-ton wooden platform made of logs held together with cables. The raft is controlled by two paddlers in the front and in back. The knowledge of making and operating such vessels was passed from generation to generation, thus only a few families nowadays continue this tradition. The whole journey takes about 6 hours and is 30 km and includes 3 raft slides with an elevation difference from 9 to 18 metres. One of the slides is the longest in Europe. But generally, it is more about fun and enjoying the day with a stop for lunch among nature, good music, and beer.