The Hofbräuhaus in Munich is more than just a beer hall – it’s a Bavarian institution, a cultural landmark, and an unforgettable experience, especially for first time visitors. Located in the heart of Munich’s Altstadt (Old Town), this legendary establishment has been serving beer, traditional food, and good times since 1589. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast, a culture lover, or simply curious about authentic Bavarian traditions, the Hofbräuhaus is an absolute must-see when in Munich.
The History Behind Hofbräuhaus
Founded by Duke Wilhelm V in 1589, the Hofbräuhaus was originally established as the royal brewery (the ducal brewery) to supply beer exclusively to the Bavarian court, who resided nearby (see “Alter Hof” a castle near Hofbräuhaus) . Over the centuries, it evolved from a private royal brewery into a public beer hall that welcomed everyone from royalty to regular citizens. The current building, reconstructed after World War II, maintains the grandeur and atmosphere of the original structure while accommodating up to 3,000 guests across multiple halls and rooms.
The Hofbräuhaus has witnessed many moments in history, from Mozart’s visits to political gatherings that led to the darkest times of modern Germany. Walking through its doors means stepping into a living piece of Munich’s heritage, where centuries of tradition are celebrated daily with clinking steins and hearty laughter.
What to Experience at the Hofbräuhaus
The main attraction is, of course, the beer. The Hofbräuhaus serves its own legendary brew, available in the iconic one-liter Mass (stein). The classic Hofbräu Original lager is smooth, refreshing, and perfectly represents Munich’s brewing excellence. Don’t miss trying the Dunkel (dark beer) or, if you’re visiting during the right season, the strong Maibock (strong beer season) or festive Märzen (Oktoberfest beer).
The Schwemme (main hall) is the heart of the Hofbräuhaus experience. This massive ground-floor hall buzzes with energy as locals and tourists alike gather at long communal tables. It is veriy common to sit next to strangers and have a beer. The vaulted ceilings, painted decorations, and the constant hum of conversation create an atmosphere that’s uniquely Bavarian. Live daily oompah music adds to the festive mood, with musicians in traditional Lederhosen playing classics that encourage singing and swaying.
For Festivals and special occasions, head upstairs to the Festsaal (festival hall). This beautifully decorated space features ornate frescoes and hosts traditional events.
If you like a restaurant like calm environment without loud music, also head upstairs to the Restaurant, also serving the traditional items as at Schwemme, making it perfect for those seeking a taste of Bavarian culture with a touch more elegance.
The food at the Hofbräuhaus is authentically Bavarian and deliciously hearty. Signature dishes include crispy roast pork knuckle (Schweinshaxe), tender Wiener Schnitzel, giant pretzels (Brezn), and savory Obatzda (a creamy cheese spread). Vegetarians will find options like Käsespätzle (cheese noodles), though the menu definitely celebrates Bavaria’s meat-loving traditions.
The Hofbräuhaus Atmosphere
What truly sets the Hofbräuhaus apart is its unparalleled atmosphere. It’s loud, lively, and wonderfully chaotic (at least at Schwemme) in the best possible way. Strangers become friends over shared tables, waitresses and waiters in traditional clothes expertly carry multiple steins at once, and the air is filled with the scent of roasted meat and fresh beer. It’s a place where inhibitions drop, songs are sung at full volume, and “Prost!” (cheers!) is heard every few minutes.
Don’t be surprised if you find yourself standing on a bench, swaying arm-in-arm with people you just met, belting out “Ein Prosit” – that’s just part of the Hofbräuhaus magic. The atmosphere is particularly electric during Oktoberfest season and on weekends, though any time is a good time to visit.
If you like it more calm and family friendly, visit Hofbräuhaus during lunchtime. The oompah band will start playing songs in the afternoon, so you can focus on having culinary delights.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
The Hofbräuhaus is located at Platzl square, just a short walk from Marienplatz in Munich’s city center. It’s open daily from morning until late at night, though arriving earlier (before 6 PM) can help you avoid the most intense crowds. Reservations are recommended for larger groups and can only be done in the Restaurant on the first floor. Spontaneous visitors usually find space at the communal tables in the Schwemme (or served beer garden during summer).
Cash is preferred, though all major credit cards are accepted. Tipping is recommended for good service. If you want to fully embrace the experience, consider wearing traditional Bavarian attire – you’ll fit right in! Remember that the atmosphere can get quite rowdy, especially in the evenings and weekends with soccer gmaes of the home team FC Bayern Munich, so it’s best suited for adults and older children.
One insider tip: If you want a true local experience, visit on a weekday morning (11 AM) or early afternoon when regulars gather for a more relaxed “Frühschoppen” (morning beer). You’ll see a different side of the Hofbräuhaus, where tradition feels more intimate and less touristy. Do it like the locals do and order a Bavarian Breakfast (Munich White Sausages, pretzel, sweet mustard and a beer).
Opening Times
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11.00 AM - Midnight
What not to miss at Hofbräuhaus
- The inner served beer garden. A gem and a traditional experience during summer.
- The Schwemme – the main hall, and mostly the only area visited by tourists.
- Step out of the tourist crowd and head up the stairs to the Festsaal (Festival Hall). See the beautiful staircase with nice ceiling paintings.
- See the stein-lockers, where regulars can lock their own private stein. Many have beautiful tin lids.
- Learn about Engel Aloisius (Angel Aloisius) the official mascot of Hofbräuhaus and the history behind that bearded guy with angel wings.
Intetresting facts about Hofbräuhaus
- Munich was saved from destruction by the Hofbräuhaus. During the 30-Years War, Munich was besieged by Swedish troops. The Hofbräuhaus gave them 23.000 liters of beer (6.075 gallons) as part of a tribute. They spared the city from destruction.
- In 1828 the brewery is opened to the public, making it the tavern we know today.
- In 1919, shortly after World War I, the communist “Räterepublik” of Bavaria was proclaimed at Hofbräuhaus. The communist republic existed for about one month.
- in 1920, the DAP, the predecessor of the Nazi Party was founded at Hofbräuhaus. Adolf Hitler joined and became a known speaker of the party – the rest is history.
- Known people who visited Hofbräuhaus were: Mozart, Sissi (Empress of Austria-Hungary), Lenin, Kaiser Wilhelm II (Emperor of Germany), Elvis Presley, Louis Armstrong, John F. Kennedy and Arnold Schwarzenegger.
- In 2025, Model and celebrity Heidi Klum celebrated the “Heidi Fest” at the Schwemme with about 1.000 guests shortly before the start of Oktoberfest.
- Many visitors of the Hofbräuhaus are regulars, having their specific regulars tables (Stammtische) with specific signs above the tables.
- The Hofbräuhaus has its own currency for beer, the beer tokens which can be bought by regulars. If they buy ten tokens (German: Bierzeichen), they get the eleventh token for free. One token equals one liter stein of beer.
Hofbräuhaus Munich Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Höfbräuhaus is (as far as I know) the only place in Munich, where you can listen to traditional live music every day, beginning in the afternoon (from noon on).
Only exception: Good Friday and November 1st (All Saints Day) as these days are by law so called “quiet holidays”.
In the Schwemme (ground floor): No
In the restaurant (first floor): Yes
In the Festsaal (festival hall): No, only used for special occasions
Yes, but be aware, that the kitchen opens at noon. From 11 AM they will serve Bavarian Breakfast (White Sausages, Pretzels) but also Obazda (chesse spread) and Leberkäs (German meat loaf).
Yes, it is located in the inner courtyard. Be aware, that this is not a traditional beer garden, but a so called served garden. You are not allowed to bring your own food, which is an old Bavarian traditions in traditional beer gardens.
Yes, all major credit cards are accepted, but sometimes your waitress or waiter will ask you to come to the cash register to pay there. They will not take your credit card, as you need your PIN in order to pay.
Only outside (which includes the served garden)
Yes. Your waitress/waiter will usually ask you if you need an English Menu as soon as they recognize you’re not a local.
Where To Find Even More Information?
- Official Website: www.hofbrauhaus.de
- Blog of Ann Laemmlin Lewis with lots of pictures of 2024
- Blog This Life In Trips, asking if it is possible to visit Hofbräuhaus in a Munich Layover
- Youtube Channel “The Beer Necessities” – Brady gives a 12 minute in depth insight into Hofbräuhaus from the view of a guest.