Hofbräuhaus

Overview

Founded in 1589 by Duke Wilhelm V to brew beer for the Bavarian court, the Hofbräuhaus am Platzl is the world's most famous beer hall. The ground-floor Schwemme seats 1,300 beneath painted vaults, with oompah bands playing nightly.

Highlights

• Schwemme: The cavernous main hall with long wooden tables, steins of Hofbräu lager, and live Bavarian brass.
• Regulars' mugs: Stammgäste (regulars) keep personal steins locked in wooden cabinets lining the walls.
• Festsaal: The ornate upper-floor ballroom, site of early Nazi party rallies and, far more happily, nightly folk-dancing shows.

History

Originally a court brewery, the Hofbräuhaus opened to the public in 1828. Lenin, Mozart, and JFK have all visited. It was rebuilt after WWII to its 1897 appearance.

Visitor Tips

• Budget €15–20: A Maß (1-litre stein) costs ~€12; traditional dishes like Schweinshaxe are ~€15.
• Go early: Arrive before 11:00 or after 21:00 to avoid the thickest tour-group crush.
• Duration: 1–2 hours.