Beer Guide: Top 6 Places to Drink Beer in Salzburg

Let’s talk about Salzburg’s beer scene. Salzburg is where the beers have as much history as the city itself. You can walk into a brewery that’s been around longer than most countries and sip on a beer that’s been perfected over generations. It’s not just about age-old traditions here, though. New breweries are popping up, trying bold flavors and brewing techniques that might surprise you.

Each brewery has its way of doing things; you can see, smell, and taste the difference. In this article, I will introduce you to the best places to grab a beer in Salzburg but also to places where you can experience and learn about beer firsthand.

The 6 Best Places to Drink Beer in Salzburg

Let’s talk about some solid places to grab a beer in Salzburg. Salzburg has been brewing beer since the 14th Century. That’s a long time. Think about it—the world was very different when these breweries first fired their kettles. But here in Salzburg, places like Stiegl and Augustiner Bräu are still at it, making beer the way they’ve done for centuries, but not afraid to throw in something new now and then.

1. Stiegl Brauwelt: Experience Salzburg’s Most Popular Beer

In Salzburg, if you’re into beer, you’ll probably hear about Stiegl. Even if you are not into beer, you will hear about it. Stiegl is Austria’s biggest private brewery. You find Stiegl beer at most restaurants, but the Stiegl Brauwelt (brewing world) is something else. What makes it stand out? You can walk through their brewery with someone who knows the ins and outs. They’ll show you how beer comes to life, from the first scoop of malt to the last drop in a glass. It’s hands-on; you can try the beer right where it’s made.

If you head to the Brauwelt and want to combine the visit with more sightseeing in Salzburg, you want to consider a Salzburg Card. It includes the brewery tour and most other attractions in Salzburg.

You might wonder why bother with a brewery tour. Here’s the thing – it’s not just about the beer. It’s about connecting with the local scene. Stiegl’s been around since 1492. Does that ring a bell? Yes, it has been around since Columbus discovered America. They’ve got stories to tell.

You reach the Stiegl Brauwelt in half an hour on foot or in a few minutes by bus number 1 or 10 from the old town. The bus is included in the Salzburg Card.

Sidenote: Our guide, Markus, leads the brewery tours at Stiegl, combining city beer tours with an in-depth brewery tour and a beer-tasting session. He’s set on making this tour the best beer tour globally, and his dedication makes this goal seem well within reach. This exclusive experience is offered as a private tour. To learn more and plan your visit, check out the Tours section on the Stiegl Brauwelt website.

2. Stieglkeller: Restaurant with a Great View

But to experience Stiegl, you don’t necessarily have to head out to Maxglan. When visiting the Hohensalzburg fortress, you find yourself next to Stieglkeller, another Stiegl place. Keller means basement. That’s what it was. Stieglkeller is carved out of rock. The cold temperature inside the mountain was used to cool the beer before refrigeration was around. Stieglkeller is more of a restaurant than a beer hall. Their terrasse has one of the best views of all the restaurants in Salzburg.

3. Augustiner Bräustübl: Monastic Brewing at Its Finest

Once you’ve taken in the breathtaking views at Stieglkeller, your next stop should undoubtedly be Augustiner Bräustübl. It’s got a long history, starting in the 1600s. This place isn’t just another drinking place. The Augustiner should be first on this list, but since Stiegl is so present, it’s first. However, if you only visit one beer place in Salzburg, that should be it.

To be honest, I don’t like beer. I know, not a typical Austrian, but I dislike the taste and the smell. However, the Augustiner Brewery is one of my favorite places in Salzburg. I recommend it on every tour. Why? Well, because of the atmosphere and the food. The place is usually packed. I always wonder how that’s even possible in a small city like Salzburg. The Augustiner is the largest beer hall in Austria.

They’ve got this smooth Märzen beer they serve right out of wooden barrels. The cool part? You grab your food to go with it, local stuff, from the food court. It’s all self-service, the food, and the beer. I love that because you can order and share several smaller dishes with everyone around you.

Here are a few things you have to know when visiting the Augustiner:

• When it comes to ordering beer, there’s a bit of a twist. Instead of the usual half-liter mugs you’d find at most places, Augustiner serves beer in “Mass” mugs holding a whopping liter of beer. If you prefer a smaller portion, you must clarify that you want just half a liter.
• Another option is to get a Radler. “Radler” means cyclist in German, and this drink is a mix of half beer and half lemonade. When you order a Radler, your 1-liter mug is filled halfway with beer, and at the cashier, you grab a bottle of lemonade to complete your unique concoction. You get Radler everywhere where you get beer, but you don’t have to mix it elsewhere.
• Augustiner Bräustübl is also a family-friendly destination. Here’s the secret: you can order the same lemonade used for making Radler and skip the beer mixing part. That’s the non-alcoholic option for your kids. So, Augustiner is also suitable for young travelers, and the place is incredibly noisy and busy, so your kids can roam free and won’t bother anyone.
• If your visit coincides with Christmas or Lent, you’re in for a special treat. Augustiner Brewery offers seasonal beers during these times that truly showcase their craftsmanship. It’s an opportunity to grasp what they do best and savor the essence of this iconic Salzburg establishment.

4. Hofbräu Kaltenhausen: A Blend of History and Modernity

Hofbräu Kaltenhausen is a paradise for beer enthusiasts, offering diverse beers that pay homage to their roots while catering to modern preferences. This brewery, dating back to 1475, is the oldest in Salzburg and embodies the beer-making tradition, earning its title as a “Preferred Salzburg Beer Culture Establishment.”

Located in the Kaltenhausen community near Hallein, Hofbräu Kaltenhausen marries age-old brewing techniques with a spirit of innovation. Centuries-old recipes are refined to create beer that resonates with contemporary tastes, enriching Salzburg’s beer culture with their specialty beer plant, which began production in 2011 after large-scale production stopped. Here, visitors can embark on a journey of beer enjoyment, complete with guided tours, beer sommelier training seminars, tastings at the Braugasthof, and enlightening presentations on the future of brewing.

But the brewery’s allure extends beyond beer alone. Explore the captivating Cooperage Museum housed within the former brewery workshop, operational until the 1970s. This museum is a guardian of cooperage craftsmanship, showcasing tools, carving instruments, beer barrels, and even a guild chest from 1609.

Moreover, suppose you plan to visit the nearby salt mines in Hallein. In that case, Hofbräu Kaltenhausen is conveniently located before Hallein and Dürrnberg, making it an ideal stop to complement your exploration of the region. So, whether you’re a beer aficionado or simply curious about the world of beer, Hofbräu Kaltenhausen promises an extraordinary beer experience on the outskirts of Salzburg.

5. Die Weisse: Austria’s Oldest Wheat Beer Brewer

Die Weisse stands as Austria’s oldest Weissbier (wheat beer) brewery, a title held since 1901 when Adelbert Behr introduced a lighter Weissbier that shifted the brewing landscape in Salzburg. Following Behr’s original recipe, this wheat beer brewery treasures its over-a-century-old brewing methods, ensuring a unique Weissbier recognized for its fruity aroma and distinctive taste.

Since 2015, Felix Gmachl has been leading Die Weisse, blending tradition with cutting-edge innovation. He’s notably introduced Austria’s first gluten-free organic Weissbier, showcasing the brewery’s fusion of quality and creativity.

Die Weisse isn’t just about the beer. While the wheat beer is a must-try, there’s more to it. This place doubles as one of Salzburg’s top traditional Austrian restaurants and is a bit off the beaten path. It’s where you can sit, relax, and savor authentic local cuisine. Think of it as a culinary journey where every bite is part of Austria’s rich gastronomic heritage.

It might not be the interactive extravaganza you’re used to from our previous places, but it offers something just as valuable – another genuine slice of Salzburg’s local culture. Whether you’re a beer aficionado, a foodie, or just someone looking to soak in the local vibe, this spot’s a gem and great for dinner or lunch.

6. Alchemist Belge: International and Austrian Craft Beer Fusion

Are you heading to Salzburg and fancy a beer with a twist? Check out Alchemist Belge. This spot isn’t your regular beer joint. It’s where Belgian brewing arts meet Austrian charm, creating an eclectic beer haven.

What’s so cool about Alchemist Belge? For starters, it’s a bit alternative. Don’t expect the usual Salzburg beer scene here. It’s about diversity in taste and embracing the new. With around 150 different beers, you’re spoilt for choice. Each beer has a story, meticulously crafted and eager to be shared.

The atmosphere? Laid back and inviting. The Alchemist is one of Salzburg’s youths’ favorites. It was the last place I visited regularly before I stopped drinking and going out on weekends. It’s the kind of place where you can relax, chat, and enjoy your beer. This isn’t about downing a pint; it’s about savoring the craftsmanship in every sip. Think of it as an experience rather than just a drink.

We used to organize our weekly regular table and named it ‘trunk table’ there – yes, a huge trunk turned into a table is the centerpiece that sums up the quirky character of the place. It was the spot for a weekly ‘trunk table’ meet-up, a random but fun gathering that added to the place’s charm.

My recommendation? Try their champagne beer. It’s a bit pricey but packs a punch with around 20% alcohol. It’s not just a beer; it’s a celebration in a glass.

And if you’re into more than just tasting, they’ve got you covered. They offer beer tastings led by a skilled beer sommelier. You can dive deep into the world of Belgian beers and learn their stories.

In short, Alchemist Belge is a must-visit for anyone looking for nightlife in Salzburg or just for a cool place to hang out and experience Salzburg’s beer scene in a unique, memorable way.

Craft Beer Evolution in Salzburg

Salzburg’s beer game has changed. There was a time when you wanted a beer in Salzburg; you’d probably end up with a traditional lager. Not bad, but standard. These days, it’s a whole different story. You’ve got choices. And I’m talking about some interesting brews that could excite anyone curious about beer.

Local breweries like Stiegl and Die Weisse are mixing things up. They’re trying new ideas and flavors, creating beers you mightn’t expect to find in Salzburg. But not just these big breweries are all in on this. Bars around Salzburg are on board, too. Places like FUXN and Urbankeller are worth checking out for Austrian food and a craft beer experience in Salzburg.

Trumerei is another place worth mentioning. It’s a blend of craft beer pub and beer shop, showcasing authentic Salzburg beer culture and regional cuisine run by the Trumer private brewery where enthusiasts can savor character-rich Pilsner beers from the family-run Trumer brewery in Obertrum am See, celebrated since 1775 for sustainable brewing and immersive experiences.

Keep Exploring: Salzburg’s Beer Culture Continued

In Salzburg, the story of beer is woven into its cobblestones and corners. Salzburg’s beer scene is as diverse as its history, from historic breweries crafting beer for centuries to modern pubs experimenting with new flavors and types of beer. This article has introduced you to standout places where beer is consumed and celebrated, such as Stiegl Brauwelt and Augustiner Bräustübl.

But remember, this list is just the beginning. Every Austrian restaurant is a gateway to the local beer culture, often serving brews from their preferred small breweries nearby, and many other places like Sternbräu or Bierhaus Eder (highly recommended for spare rips) would also be considered solid beer gardens.

The selection I’ve shared is far from complete. A whole world of beer is waiting for you to explore in Salzburg.