Beer garden of the Stieglkeller | © Tourismus Salzburg / Günter Breitegger
Beer Culture
Salzburg’s beer culture has a tradition dating back centuries which is continued today in the form of privately run breweries and an exceptional culture of gastronomy.
The History of Beer Culture
The first commercial breweries in Salzburg were established at the end of the 14th century. Two of the city’s oldest still exist today, and both are the epitome of knowledge passed down through the generations in combination with unsurpassed expertise: The Stiegl-Brauerei goes back to the year 1492 and is now Austria’s biggest private brewery, while Augustiner Bräu Kloster Mülln has been producing beer since 1621.
At the time of the prince-archbishops, beer brewing was subject to very strict regulations. Alcohol taxes also brought in lucrative revenues for the state. At the time when Salzburg was absorbed into the Austrian crown lands, new production methods and improved technology led to an upswing in beer production. By 1860, there were 75 breweries across Salzburg City and the entire province. The war years of WWI and WWII saw a drastic decline in the brewing industry. From this point on, the Salzburg market was dominated by two major breweries: Stiegl and Kaltenhausen.
Breweries in Salzburg
Salzburg is generally regarded as the beer capital of Austria. Eleven breweries in and around the city reflect the impressive variety of opportunities available to beer aficionados. From Stiegl Brewery and Hofbräu Kaltenhausen to venerable Augustiner Bräu Kloster Mülln, Die Weisse and those microbreweries at inns that produce only for their own guests, Salzburg gives you the perfect opportunity to experience the multifaceted world of “amber nectar”. Each brewery has its own style and specialises in a core competence. The range includes traditional Salzburg beers as well as innovative creations.
Experience Salzburg’s Beer Culture
The easiest way to discover Salzburg’s passion for beer is by paying a visit to one of the pubs or restaurants operated by the breweries. Enjoy a wide range of beers at traditional inns and trendy bars. Experts in the beer culture of Salzburg share their knowledge with participants during walks, tours and courses. In addition to traditional festivities in which beer plays an important role, you can also immerse yourself in Salzburg's 600-year-old tradition of brewing beer on the "Salzburg Beer Culture" themed walk.
Behind the scenes
Ingenious master brewers understand and make creative use of the advantages they enjoy as independant brewers. Find out what makes Salzburg's beers so special.
