Do you want a true taste of German culture and cuisine? Then explore the rich history of century-old beer making in Germany. There are many ways to educate yourself on German beer culture, and almost all include raising a dough (liter of beer). Get ready to say » Prost «!
The best German breweries
Take a look behind the scenes and find out how German beer is made. From ancient monasteries to state-of-the-art modern facilities, take a tour of one of these German breweries before sampling their fresh beer right then and there.
For example, the Hofbrau Brewery Tour takes you behind the scenes at one of the most iconic German breweries.
German beer regions
Beer lovers may be surprised to find that beers have traditionally been quite regional. While generic pilsners from mega brewers can be found everywhere, there are specialties in every area. In addition to learning about Germany’s many regions, delve into smoked beers in Bavaria, sample woodruff’s milk wheat beer in Berlin, and return many small samples of crisp Kölsch in Cologne. Each city offers a beer adventure.
Best breweries in Munich
Munich is home to one of the most famous breweries in the world, the Hofbräuhaus. Established in 1589 as the Royal Brewery of the Kingdom of Bavaria, the Hofbräuhaus is an essential part of Munich’s culture and cuisine, treasured by tourists and locals alike.
The best craft breweries in Berlin
After leading the beer scene in medieval times, corporate breweries slowly crushed the little ones in Germany. For a time, only mass-produced Berlin Pils beers or foreign beers like Beck’s were commonly offered. And that fits the clientele who were happy to walk into any kneeling (bar) and just order a pilsner, whatever it is.
But as the people of Berlin have changed, so has the beer scene. There is currently a craft beer renaissance with new breweries opening on every corner.
What to Expect in a German Biergarten
One of the best places to enjoy your craft beer is in a German brewery, sitting at long wooden tables, in the shade of centuries-old chestnut trees. You are not experiencing a true German summer without a visit.
So what traditional food should you try? How do you find a good table, and can you also bring your own picnic?
Also check out the best biergartens in Berlin, Munich, and Dresden. But if you are not in one of these cities, do not be afraid. Beer and biergartens are found absolutely everywhere in Germany.
The best beers in Germany
According to the Purity Law of 1516, German beer is only made from four ingredients: water, hops, malt, and yeast, but that doesn’t mean that all German beer tastes the same. You can wet your whistle with more than 5,000 types of beers.
Also keep in mind that in a country of tradition, a new beer scene is causing a sensation. Artisan manufacturing has arrived and has taken the reins of the main brewers. Small craft brewers have popped up across the country and are reinventing German beer.
Oktoberfest in Munich
The famous Oktoberfest is a colorful celebration of German beer, culture and cuisine. Taste Bavaria in more than 30 Oktoberfest beer tents, each proudly serving up different local beers, handcrafted in some of Bavaria’s best breweries. Don’t forget to try some of the delicious foods and sweets served at this event.
German drinking parties
Did you miss Oktoberfest? Germany has many great drink festivals to complete the rest of the year. Discover lesser-known festivals, such as the spring festivals in Stuttgart and Munich, the Berlin International Beer Festival, and wine festivals, such as the Werder fruit wine festival. Prost !
Continue to 9 of 10 below.
Beer Museum and Oktoberfest
Find out about Germany’s favorite drink at the Munich Beer and Oktoberfest Museum. The exhibition showcases the art and culture of brewing around the world and explores the history of Oktoberfest.
For the drinker without beer
Not a beer drinker? Despite its reputation, Germany has many unique drinks to enjoy during the summer and winter. It branches out into wines, soft drinks, seasonal drinks, and spirits like Jagermeister.
