Veröffentlicht von The Hofbräuhaus Munich is one of the most famous beer halls in the world. Located in the heart of the Old Town, just a short walk from Marienplatz, it represents Bavarian beer culture like almost no other place.
For many visitors, a trip to Munich is not complete without sitting at a long wooden table inside the Hofbräuhaus, drinking a Maß of beer and listening to traditional Bavarian music. But the Hofbräuhaus is more than just a tourist attraction – it has over 400 years of history.
Short video about the Hofbräuhaus (from YouTube)
This guide explains:
- The history of the Hofbräuhaus
- What to expect inside
- Food and beer specialties
- How crowded it gets
- Practical tips for visitors
Munich Beer & Brewery Tours
Learn more about Munich’s beer culture with a guided beer tour. Many tours include tastings and visits to historic beer halls.
History of the Hofbräuhaus
The Hofbräuhaus was founded in 1589 by Duke Wilhelm V of Bavaria. Originally, it served as a brewery for the royal court. At that time, Munich’s rulers were not satisfied with the quality of beer available locally, so they established their own brewery.
Over the centuries, the Hofbräuhaus became accessible to the public and developed into one of Munich’s most famous meeting places.
It has survived wars, political changes and reconstructions. Like many historic buildings in Munich, it was damaged during World War II and later rebuilt.
What Makes the Hofbräuhaus Special?
The Hofbräuhaus stands for:
- Traditional Bavarian beer
- Live brass band music
- Long wooden communal tables
- Waiters in traditional attire
The atmosphere is lively and often loud. It is not a quiet, romantic restaurant but a vibrant beer hall with hundreds of guests.
The Main Beer Hall (Schwemme)
The ground floor hall, called the Schwemme, is the most famous part of the building. With its high ceilings, painted arches and historic décor, it creates a classic Bavarian setting.
Regular guests even have their own reserved beer steins stored in lockers inside the building.
Beer Garden
In warmer months, the Hofbräuhaus also offers an outdoor beer garden. Sitting under chestnut trees with a cold beer is one of the most authentic Munich experiences.
If you want to explore more beer gardens, see our guide to beer gardens in Munich.
Beer Selection
The Hofbräuhaus serves the famous Hofbräu beers, including:
- Hofbräu Original (lager)
- Hofbräu Dunkel
- Hofbräu Weißbier
- Seasonal specialties
Beer is traditionally served in large one-liter mugs called “Maß.”
Food at the Hofbräuhaus
The menu focuses on classic Bavarian dishes:
- Weißwurst (white sausage)
- Roast pork with dumplings
- Schweinshaxe (pork knuckle)
- Bavarian pretzels
Portions are generous, and dishes pair well with the house beers.
Is It Tourist-Only?
The Hofbräuhaus attracts many international visitors. However, locals still come here, especially for traditional events or when hosting guests.
If you prefer a quieter and more local atmosphere, you may want to explore smaller beer halls in different Munich districts.
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How Crowded Is It?
- Very busy on weekends
- Especially crowded during Oktoberfest
- Quieter during weekday afternoons
Reservations are recommended for large groups.
How Long Should You Stay?
- 30–60 minutes: One beer and snack
- 1–2 hours: Full meal and music
It is easy to combine a visit with nearby attractions such as:
How to Get There
The Hofbräuhaus is located in Munich’s Old Town:
- U-Bahn and S-Bahn: Marienplatz
- 5-minute walk from the station
More travel information:
Stay Near the Hofbräuhaus
Hotels in the Old Town allow easy access to Marienplatz, the Hofbräuhaus and other top sights.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Historic and iconic
- Authentic Bavarian atmosphere
- Central location
- Live music
Cons
- Very touristy
- Often crowded and loud
Is the Hofbräuhaus Worth Visiting?
Yes. Even if it is touristy, the Hofbräuhaus remains one of Munich’s most famous institutions. For first-time visitors, it offers a classic Bavarian beer hall experience in a historic setting.