When you think of Munich, your mind might immediately conjure images of frothy mugs, Lederhosen, and the Oktoberfest juggernaut. While Munich’s traditional beer halls are iconic, the city’s craft beer scene is bubbling up in a whole new way, offering an authentic, local experience that steers clear of the industrial giants. This isn’t just about pilsner and Helles anymore—it’s a movement of independent brewpubs and microbreweries that are reinventing the beer game. Ready for a taste? Let’s dive into where you can find the best craft beer bars and breweries in Munich.
The Craft Beer Revolution in Munich
Munich’s beer roots run deep—going back centuries to when monks brewed their own ales. Today, the city’s craft beer scene is a counter-model to the big beer corporations and long-established breweries like Löwenbräu or Paulaner. Independent brewers are getting creative, blending tradition with innovation, and putting Munich on the map for more than just Märzen and Weißbier. Whether you’re a tourist on a beer tour of Munich or a local who needs a break from the usual, these spots will give you a fresh, hoppy twist on Bavaria’s most beloved beverage.
Top 5 Craft Beer Spots and Breweries in Munich
1. BrewsLi – Der Biermacher
If you want a taste of what happens when passion meets hops, BrewsLi is your spot. Our dear friends and partners Ben and Stephi run this hiddden gem in Haidhausen. Ben, the brew master, learnt the craft at the oldest beer institution in the world called Weihenstephan. They continuously brew beer at Weihenstephan since the year 1040, making it the oldest, still operating brewery in the whole world. The brew pub itself boasts a rotating lineup of craft beers, brewed with precision and creativity. The team behind BrewsLi is small, super friendly and dedicated, often chatting with guests about their brewing process and experimenting with ingredients. It’s an ideal stop if you’re taking a craft beer tour in Munich and want to experience the new generation of local brewers. Pro Tip: Get one of their tasting flights to indulge in the amazing variety that is brewed on the premise.
2. Higgins Ale Works
Run by the couple Paul and Jen Higgins from New Jersey who lived in Munich since over 20 years, this brew pub is tucked away in a cozy corner of Altstadt-Lehel. Higgins Ale Works is where you’ll find the true rebels of the Munich beer world. This microbrewery is small in size but mighty in flavor. Higgins prides itself on producing experimental ales with engineering precision—think bold IPAs, stouts, and ales that push the boundaries of what Munich beer can be. The taproom is intimate and inviting, making it perfect for a laid-back beer tasting in Munich. Pro Tip: Ask for their seasonal brews—you won’t regret it.
3. Bierkiste: Munich’s Craft Beer Späti With a Twist
Welcome to Bierkiste, where beer nerds, craft beer hipsters, and local butchers from the nearby slaughterhouse all hang out after work. Yes, you read that right. This isn’t your typical Munich beer spot—it’s a one-of-a-kind cultural mashup that feels like Berlin’s iconic Späti (late-night shop), but with a Bavarian craft beer twist. Think of Bierkiste as a beer lover’s Trinkhalle—a kiosk where you can grab a brew to go, or hang around and chat with locals from all walks of life. Whether you’re grabbing a quick Wegbier (roadie) for your stroll home or planning to sample your way through their curated selection of craft beers from Munich’s best indie breweries, this spot is a must-visit.
Opened during the pandemic, Bierkiste has become a social hub where the butcher and the bearded hipster swap beer stories. It’s not just about the drink; it’s about the people. So grab your Wegbier, soak in the atmosphere, and get a real taste of Munich’s craft beer scene. Cheers to that!
4. Tap House
Widely recognized as one of the best places for craft beer in Munich, Tap House boasts 40+ taps featuring local and international craft beers. This spacious bar has something for everyone, from beer novices to seasoned aficionados. The folks at Tap House are passionate about educating their customers, making it an essential stop for anyone on a beer tour of Munich. Tip: Go for the beer flights if you want to taste a bit of everything, and don’t be shy to ask the bartenders for recommendations—they’re true beer geeks!
5. Giesinger Bräustüberl
When it comes to the perfect mix of old-world charm and cutting-edge brewing, Giesinger Bräustüberl hits the spot. As one of Munich’s oldest independent breweries founded in a garage in the working-class neighborhood of Giesing by two locals, Giesinger has been producing small-batch beers with a modern twist for over a decade. Situated in the up-and-coming district of Giesing, this brewery offers more than just amazing beers—it’s a cultural experience. Their Dunkel (dark beer) and Weizenbock are must-tries, especially if you’re on the best beer tour in Munich. Insider Info: This place fills up quickly, especially on weekends, so come early!
Pro Tips for Enjoying Craft Beer in Munich
– Know Your Styles: While traditional beers like Helles and Weissbier are still cherished, Munich’s craft brewers are branching out with IPAs, stouts, and sours. Don’t hesitate to try something outside the norm.
– Go Local: Skip the touristy spots and head to the quieter neighborhoods—these bars and breweries are often tucked away from the main drag but offer a much more authentic experience.
– Ask the Experts: The people behind Munich’s craft beer scene are passionate and love talking about their work. Don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations—you might discover a new favorite beer!
Munich’s Beer Scene: A Cultural Shift
Munich’s new wave of craft brewers is revitalizing the city’s beer culture, blending traditional techniques with modern innovation. Whether you’re sipping a perfectly balanced IPA or enjoying a malty Dunkel, you’ll taste the centuries of beer craftsmanship that’s been handed down and reinvented. The craft beer movement is giving Munich a fresh flavor while keeping its historic brewing legacy alive.
For those looking to explore this exciting beer renaissance, there’s no better way than hopping on one of the best beer tours in Munich. A Munich beer tour will take you off the beaten path to spots like Higgins Ale Works, BrewsLi, and Giesinger Bräustüberl—places that are shaping the future of beer in Bavaria.
So, whether you’re a local or just visiting, ditch the mass-produced brews for a more flavorful, personal beer experience. The best craft beer tour in Munich is waiting for you—prost!
Book Our Munich Craft Beer Tour Today!
Looking to uncover the hidden craft beer gems of Munich? Want to go behind the scenes at a local microbrewery and sip your way through the city’s coolest beer spots? Then our Munich Craft Beer Tour is calling your name!
Join our expert local guides as they dish out the inside scoop on Munich’s beer history and culture—while you hang out with fellow beer enthusiasts and soak up the true local vibe in neighborhoods most tourists never get to see. You’ll taste 7 (yes, seven!) craft beers, ranging from traditional brews to wild experimental flavors, all while savoring a delicious local snack.
Beer in Munich isn’t just a drink, it’s an art form—an essential part of the city’s culture and history. And here’s the kicker: we offer more beer than any other Munich beer tour. So why wait? Book now and get ready to sip, learn, and laugh your way through Munich’s craft beer scene!
If you have any questions about our Munich Craft Beer Tour, please feel free to reach out to us anytime!
Also, if you need more info about Munich’s unique craft beer scene, check out the Craft Beer Map of Munich!
