If you’re heading to Munich and love a good beer, this tour is a must. For around $172, you’ll spend roughly 3 to 4 hours exploring the city’s lesser-known breweries, savoring local craft beers and unique schnapps, all guided by passionate locals. What makes this experience stand out? First, you get to avoid the tourist-heavy mainstream spots and instead explore Munich’s authentic, small-batch beer scene. Second, the small-group size (max 15 people) ensures a personal, lively atmosphere with plenty of chances to ask questions and taste at your own pace.
We particularly appreciate how the guide, often praised as knowledgeable and personable, makes each stop feel tailored to your preferences. You might find yourself chatting with locals, learning surprising facts about Bavarian beer and schnapps, or simply enjoying the lively ambiance of historic beer halls. One aspect we love is how the tour combines history and culture with ample tasting opportunities, making it both fun and educational.
A possible consideration? Since this is a serious drinking tour, pacing is key. It’s best not to pre-drink before joining — the tour will take care of your drinking needs, and you’ll want to stay hydrated. Also, the tour involves some walking through lively neighborhoods; comfortable shoes are recommended.
This tour suits beer lovers, foodies, and those curious about Munich’s local drinking culture but seeking a more intimate experience than a crowded pub crawl. It’s perfect if you want to discover authentic, off-the-beaten-path spots with a guide who knows their stuff.
Key Points
- Authentic experience focusing on local and lesser-known breweries
- Small-group setting allows for personalized attention and casual conversation
- Educational but fun, with stories and history about Munich’s beer culture
- Taste a variety of beers and schnapps that you may not find elsewhere
- Includes traditional Bavarian food and snacks to complement your drinks
- No pre-drinking needed, as the tour is designed to provide ample tastings
In-Depth Review of the Munich Beer and Schnapps Tour
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What to Expect and Who Is It For
Our team loves the idea of a daytime beer tour for those who prefer to start their evenings sober and energized. This tour, at 3 pm, kicks off at Ludwig Beck on Marienplatz, the heart of Munich. You’ll meet your guide, who is often described as knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive, and head into a curated route that avoids the usual tourist trap breweries.
This experience is perfect for beer enthusiasts eager to explore Munich’s local brewing scene and those interested in Bavarian drinking customs. The small-group format (up to 15 participants) ensures a cozy, informal vibe, ideal for travelers who want more than just tasting but also to hear stories behind each spot.
The Itinerary: A Closer Look
Stop 1: Munich Marienplatz and a Traditional Beer Hall
Your introduction begins in Marienplatz, Munich’s iconic square. Expect a lively atmosphere and a fun German drinking game, making the start upbeat. The tour then moves to a nearby historic beer hall, often praised for its storied past and authentic Bavarian pub fare. Here, you’ll sample award-winning beers and enjoy a unique take on traditional schnapps. The 50-minute visit sets the tone — lively, informative, and a little bit boisterous.
Reviews highlight this stop as “a lovely and knowledgeable host,” setting a friendly tone that continues throughout the day. The mix of sights, sounds, and tastes provides a great foundation in Munich’s beer culture.
Stop 2: Viktualienmarkt and a Local Bar
Next, you’ll head to Viktualienmarkt, a famous outdoor market. Instead of just browsing, you’ll visit a beloved local bar with an interesting backstory. Expect to learn about Munich’s favorite brewery, coupled with light fare and more beer. This stop offers a balance of history, local flavor, and casual tasting.
Guests praise the guide’s ability to tailor the experience (“Victoria was amazing and made this ex…”) and enjoy traditional snacks alongside their drinks. The 50-minute duration allows enough time to savor and chat without feeling rushed.
Stop 3: Frauenplatz and a Monastic Brew
The third stop takes you to Frauenplatz, in the shadow of Munich’s famous cathedral. You’ll visit another centuries-old beer hall, highly favored by locals. Here, you’ll enjoy Bavarian beers brewed by Benedictine monks, which adds a historic and spiritual vibe to your tasting. The final schnapps of the day caps off the experience.
Several reviewers mention the unique beers brewed by monks as a highlight. It’s an authentic taste of traditional brewing methods, and the atmosphere is relaxed yet steeped in history.
Stop 4: Glockenbachviertel and Munich’s Craft Beer Scene
The last leg takes you through Glockenbachviertel, one of the trendiest neighborhoods in Munich. This part of the tour highlights Munich’s craft beer uprising, with stops at local breweries and bars that focus on innovative brewing.
Expect a lively, modern environment where creativity shines. Guests love the chance to see a different side of Munich — more hip and experimental — and to sample fresh, craft beers you won’t find in typical tourist guides.
What’s Included and What to Consider
You’ll be sampling 6x 500 ml Bavarian beers and 4x German schnapps, paired with traditional food, snacks, and desserts. This makes the tour very drink-heavy, so it’s not suited for those wishing to pace themselves lightly or pre-drink beforehand. The guide emphasizes that this is a serious drinking experience, and several reviews highlight the importance of hydration and moderate pacing.
The tour’s price of $171.81 includes all tastings, food, and guide services. Many reviews point out the excellent value, especially considering the personalized approach, the quality of drinks, and the variety of venues visited.
The Experience: Authenticity and Personal Touch
What truly makes this tour appealing is the personalized, local feel. Guides like Sofia, Victoria, and Lockie are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to tailor the experience. Several reviews mention how guides adjust the stops based on preferences or navigate around bad weather with ease.
The small-group setting fosters a convivial atmosphere; you’re likely to make new friends over shared drinks and stories. Guests also appreciate how the guides share insights into Munich’s beer history, local culture, and hidden gems.
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The Pacing and Walking
Expect some walking between venues, often through lively neighborhoods like Glockenbachviertel. The moderate physical activity is manageable, but comfortable shoes are recommended, especially since you’ll be on your feet for a couple of hours. The 3 pm start allows you to enjoy the afternoon without feeling rushed, giving you a relaxed pace to savor each stop.
The Authenticity and Support of Local Business
One small but meaningful detail — this tour is run by a local Munich company, supporting small businesses rather than major brewery chains. The focus on local breweries and community-oriented spots adds to the authenticity of the experience.
Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?
The Ultimate Beer and Schnapps Day-Drinking Tour of Munich is perfect for beer lovers who want to explore beyond the typical tourist spots. If you enjoy tasting local and craft beers, and are interested in Munich’s brewing traditions, this tour will delight you. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate a relaxed, social atmosphere and want a guide who can make the experience feel personal and engaging.
While it’s a drinking-focused experience, it also offers insights into Munich’s culture and local history, making it both fun and educational. Be prepared for a serious amount of drinks, so pacing yourself and staying hydrated will ensure you enjoy the full experience.
If you’re after a quirky, authentic, and well-curated beer adventure that avoids the crowds and offers genuine local flavor, this tour hits the mark. And if you leave with a few bottles of schnapps to bring home, so much the better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers or those who don’t want to get drunk?
This tour is designed for serious beer lovers and involves quite a bit of drinking. It’s best if you’re comfortable drinking alcohol and not expecting a light or casual tasting experience. You can certainly participate in the history and culture, but it’s mainly a drinking tour.
How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 3 to 4 hours, starting at 3 pm and ending back at Marienplatz.
Are the stops accessible by walking?
Yes, the tour involves some walking between venues through lively Munich neighborhoods. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some moderate walking.
What’s included in the price?
You get 6 Bavarian beers (500 ml each), 4 schnapps, traditional Bavarian food, snacks, and desserts, plus the guiding service. Tips for the guide are not included.
Is the tour suitable for families or children?
Since this is a serious drinking tour, it’s tailored for adults of legal drinking age. It’s not recommended for children or those under 18.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Ludwig Beck on Marienplatz and ends back at the same location.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a water bottle for hydration, and a good appetite for Bavarian snacks and hearty pours.
Are tips included?
No, tips or gratuities for guides are not included and are appreciated for excellent service.
The Sum Up
The Munich Beer and Schnapps Day-Drinking Tour offers a rich, authentic experience for those eager to taste local brews and learn about Bavarian drinking customs without the fatigue of evening drinking. Its small-group size and personalized guides make it stand out, offering a balance of education and entertainment.
Perfect for beer aficionados, culture-minded travelers, or anyone looking for a fun, relaxed way to explore Munich’s hidden beer scene, this tour delivers more than just drinks — it provides a genuine taste of local life. If you want to avoid the tourist crowds and uncover lesser-known gems, this experience will serve you well. Just be sure to pace yourself, stay hydrated, and enjoy the friendly atmosphere that makes Munich’s beer culture so special.
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