• Auerbachs Keller, Leipzig: The most famous tavern in eastern Germany, this is where Goethe staged the debate between Faust and Mephistopheles. The tavern dates from 1530 and has a series of murals evoking the Faust legend.
  • Augustiner Bräustuben, Munich: Although many raid the famous Hofbräuhaus, this authentic tavern at the back door of the Augustiner brewery combines the Bavarian camaraderie and flavorful fare without the tourist circus. It occupies the former horse stalls, but don't fret—the odor has long since dissipated. Best of all, they fill the massive Mass glasses for one of the lowest prices in town.
  • Hofbräuhaus, Munich: Needing no introduction, the Hofbräuhaus can stake the claim as the world's most famous beer hall, packing in up to 4,500 beer drinkers on any given night. Music from live bands and huge mugs of beer served at wooden tables combine to produce the best of Bavarian nighttime fun.
  • Zum Roten Ochsen, Heidelberg: Over the years, "The Red Ox" has drawn beer drinkers from Mark Twain to Bismarck. Students have been getting plastered here since 1703, and the tradition continues to this day.
  • Ratskeller, Bremen: This is one of the most celebrated Ratskellers in Germany. A tradition for decades, it serves top-notch German and international food and some of the best suds along the Rhineland, as well as one of the longest lists of vintage wines from the country's vineyards.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.