
Schlenkerla Brewery
Historic Bamberg brewery famous for its unique, traditional smoked beer (Rauchbier) and hearty Bavarian cuisine.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

Schlenkerla Brewery
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic Bamberg brewery famous for its unique, traditional smoked beer (Rauchbier) and hearty Bavarian cuisine.
"The iconic smoked lager is a taste of history, a must-try for any beer enthusiast visiting Bamberg."

🍻 Try the Rauchbier First
Don't miss the signature smoked beer! It's a unique taste experience.
🍽️ Order Hearty Food
The traditional Bavarian dishes are excellent and pair well with the beer.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Aecht Schlenkerla Rauchbier Märzen
Bar or Beer Garden
The iconic smoked lager, tasting like liquid smoke and history. A must-try for any beer enthusiast.

Schlenkerla Oak Smoke Doppelbock
Bar or Beer Garden
A richer, darker brew with a distinct oak-smoked malt profile. Deeper and more complex than the Märzen.

Traditional Bavarian Food
Restaurant
Hearty, local dishes like Krustenbraten and pork shoulder complement the unique beers perfectly.

Historic Brewery Atmosphere
Interior and Beer Garden
Soak in centuries of brewing tradition in this atmospheric, family-run establishment.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Smoke: Your First Sip
Beat the Crowds for an Authentic Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🍻 Try the Rauchbier First
Don't miss the signature smoked beer! It's a unique taste experience.
🍽️ Order Hearty Food
The traditional Bavarian dishes are excellent and pair well with the beer.
🚶♂️ Explore Bamberg on Foot
The brewery is centrally located in a beautiful, walkable city.
💰 Beer Deposit System
Pay a small deposit ('Pfand') for your mug, get it back when you return it.
Tips
from all over the internet
🍻 Try the Rauchbier First
Don't miss the signature smoked beer! It's a unique taste experience.
🍽️ Order Hearty Food
The traditional Bavarian dishes are excellent and pair well with the beer.
🚶♂️ Explore Bamberg on Foot
The brewery is centrally located in a beautiful, walkable city.
💰 Beer Deposit System
Pay a small deposit ('Pfand') for your mug, get it back when you return it.
🚫 No Bachelor Parties
The brewery has a policy against hosting bachelor parties.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Schlenkerla Brewery is celebrated for its authentic Bamberg experience, particularly its world-renowned smoked beer and hearty Bavarian food. While it can get very crowded, leading to a bustling, sometimes assembly-line feel, visitors find the unique flavors and historic atmosphere well worth it. The beer garden is a highlight, though flies can be a nuisance outdoors.
"An authentic Bamberg brewery and restaurant. Because it’s ranked at the top of almost every tourist guide, it does get very crowded with visitors – many of whom just wander through or have a quick beer while standing. But if you take the time to sit down, order and enjoy the excellent beer, it’s well worth it. The food is hearty and tasty, service is fast, and while the staff aren’t overly friendly (a bit of an assembly-line feel), they are attentive. The only real downside to dining outdoors is the sheer number of flies – you’ll be busy fighting them off for your meal."
Ermi Mirek
"Famous for their Rauchbier I now got to try their food. They got the typical local dishes. We had the Krustenbraten and Tafelspitz. Both dishes were well prepared. They are quite busy in summer, but they made space for our large group. Great hospitality. But for some reasons they do not entertain bachelor parties."
Jasmin Hussain
"Great beer garden. Ate here both nights I spent in Bamberg. Managed to get through the entire list of smoked beers. The red lager was my favourite"
Michael Lumsdon
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Schlenkerla Brewery is located in the heart of Bamberg's old town, making it easily accessible on foot. If arriving by train, it's a pleasant walk of about 15-20 minutes through the charming streets. Parking can be challenging in the city center, so public transport or walking is recommended.
Absolutely! Bamberg's historic center is very compact. Schlenkerla is within easy walking distance of the Bamberg Cathedral, Little Venice, and the Old Town Hall.
Bamberg is well-connected by train, with frequent services from major German cities like Nuremberg and Munich. If driving, be aware that parking in the old town is limited and often requires payment.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required for entry to Schlenkerla Brewery. You can walk in and order drinks and food.
Schlenkerla is typically open daily from late morning through the evening. Hours can vary slightly by season, so it's always a good idea to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information.
There is no separate entrance fee for the beer garden. You simply order your drinks and food from the service staff.
Reservations are generally not taken, especially for smaller groups, as the brewery operates on a first-come, first-served basis. It's best to arrive early or be prepared to wait or stand.
While not always advertised, Schlenkerla occasionally hosts special events or offers insights into their brewing process, sometimes virtually. Keep an eye on their social media for announcements.
🎫 🍺 Beer & Drinks
Rauchbier is a traditional German smoked beer, and Schlenkerla is one of the last breweries to exclusively produce it using malt kilned over open beechwood fires. This gives it a distinct smoky flavor.
Schlenkerla offers several smoked beers, including the classic Aecht Schlenkerla Rauchbier Märzen, the richer Aecht Schlenkerla Eiche (Oak Smoke) Doppelbock, and sometimes seasonal brews like Urbock.
It has a pronounced smoky aroma and flavor, often compared to smoked sausage or bacon, balanced with malty sweetness. It's a unique taste that many find surprisingly delicious.
For many, yes. The smoky intensity can be surprising at first, but most visitors find it to be a rewarding and memorable experience. Trying a smaller glass is recommended.
While famous for its Rauchbier, Schlenkerla also offers other traditional Bavarian beers, including unfiltered Weizen and Helles, depending on availability.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Schlenkerla serves hearty, traditional Bavarian cuisine. Popular dishes include Krustenbraten (pork roast with crackling), Tafelspitz (boiled beef), and various pork dishes.
Yes, the food portions are generally generous, reflecting traditional Bavarian hospitality. They are well-prepared and satisfying.
Reviews consistently praise the food as tasty and well-prepared, making it a great accompaniment to their unique beers.
Many visitors highly recommend the pork shoulder or Krustenbraten for a classic Bavarian experience.
Yes, Schlenkerla has a popular beer garden area for outdoor dining, which is especially enjoyable in warmer weather.
📸 📸 Photography & Atmosphere
Early mornings or late evenings can offer softer light and fewer crowds for photography. The historic architecture and lively beer garden provide great photo opportunities.
It's a lively, traditional Bavarian brewery with a historic feel. Expect a bustling atmosphere, especially in the evenings and weekends, with both locals and tourists.
Definitely! The beer garden and standing areas offer a great vantage point to observe the mix of locals and tourists enjoying their beers and meals.
Yes, you can take photos inside and outside the brewery. Be mindful of other patrons and staff when photographing.
The combination of centuries-old brewing traditions, the distinctive smoky beer, and the authentic Bavarian setting creates a truly unique and memorable atmosphere.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🍻 Beer Enthusiasts
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Rauchbier: Schlenkerla's Signature Brew
Beyond the classic Märzen, Schlenkerla also produces other smoked varieties. The Aecht Schlenkerla Eiche (Oak Smoke) Doppelbock offers a deeper, richer profile, with the malt kilned over oak wood, imparting a different smoky nuance. These beers are not just beverages; they are an experience, a taste of a brewing tradition that has survived for centuries. Visitors are encouraged to try them to understand why Bamberg is considered the 'smoked beer capital'.
For those new to Rauchbier, the intense smokiness can be surprising. However, many find it to be an acquired taste that becomes incredibly rewarding. The brewery's staff are often happy to explain the process, and trying a smaller glass first is a common recommendation. The unique flavor profile makes it a must-try for any beer aficionado visiting Bamberg, offering a genuine taste of Bavarian heritage.
A Taste of Bavaria: Food at Schlenkerla
Many visitors rave about the quality and flavor of the food, noting that it's well-prepared and satisfying. The pork shoulder is frequently highlighted as a must-try dish. Dining in the atmospheric restaurant or the bustling beer garden allows you to fully immerse yourself in the Schlenkerla experience. While the service can be efficient, reflecting the high volume of visitors, it remains attentive.
It's worth noting that Schlenkerla has a policy against hosting bachelor parties, which contributes to maintaining a more relaxed dining atmosphere for other guests. Whether you're a beer connoisseur or simply looking for a delicious meal in a historic setting, the food at Schlenkerla is a significant part of the overall appeal.
Navigating the Schlenkerla Experience
While many visitors enjoy standing at the bar or in designated areas, securing a table in the restaurant or beer garden can enhance the experience, particularly if you plan to dine. Due to its popularity, tables are often on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early or being patient is key. The atmosphere is lively and convivial, with a mix of locals and tourists, creating a vibrant social scene.
For those seeking a more tranquil visit, aiming for weekday evenings is often recommended, as the crowds tend to thin out. The brewery's location in Bamberg's UNESCO World Heritage old town also means it's perfectly situated for exploring other attractions before or after your visit.






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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit