Munich, renowned for its beer gardens and rich cultural heritage, is also a city with a thriving live music scene. Beyond large concert halls and festivals, the city is filled with intimate venues, quirky bars, and unique cultural spaces that bring music to life in extraordinary ways.
We’ll also share where to go to listen to the best traditional Bavarian music too! Whether you’re seeking the high-energy vibe of a rock gig, the soulful sounds of blues, or a laid-back acoustic set in a café, Munich’s diverse venues provide the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable night out.
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Backstage
Museumsinsel 1 (Ludwigsbrücke)
Backstage is more than just a music venue; it’s a cultural hub for alternative lifestyles. Spread across several rooms and outdoor areas, it caters to rock and punk fans while also hosting flea markets, open-air cinema nights, and themed parties. Its grungy, industrial atmosphere gives it a raw, authentic vibe that appeals to non-mainstream audiences.
- Genre: Rock, Punk, Alternative
- When: When special concerts are booked
Milla
Holzstraße 28
Milla is a hidden gem in the trendy Glockenbachviertel district. Its underground setting, with a small but lively stage and moody lighting, makes it ideal for intimate performances. The venue is known for its diverse lineup, hosting everything from indie bands and hip-hop artists to experimental jazz collectives. The bar often collaborates with local artists and creatives, making it a hub for Munich’s alternative scene.
- Genre: Indie, Rock, Hip Hop
- When: Multiple nights a week
Alte Utting
Lagerhausstraße 15
Alte Utting is an old passenger ship placed atop a railway bridge, creating a one-of-a-kind venue. Visitors can wander through the ship’s deck and cabins while enjoying live music, DJs, or theater performances. The eclectic programming, along with its quirky and scenic setting, has made it a favorite spot for locals looking for a relaxed yet lively atmosphere.
- Genre: Mixed
- When: Year-round events, but mostly in the summer
Kilian’s Irish Pub
Frauenplatz 11
Located near the iconic Frauenkirche, Kilian’s is Munich’s go-to spot for an authentic Irish pub experience. It offers live music five nights a week, ranging from traditional Irish folk to high-energy rock. The friendly crowd and hearty pints of Guinness make it a perfect place to let loose and sing along with the band.
- Genre: Irish, Folk, Rock
- When: Five times a week
Bahnwärter Thiel
Tumblingerstraße 29 (Zenettistr.)
Famous for its classic rum cocktails and old-school charm, Pusser’s Bar exudes sophistication. The live piano performances add a touch of elegance to the cozy ambiance, making it an excellent choice for a romantic or refined evening. The bar’s history and its commitment to high-quality drinks and music have made it a Munich institution.
- Genre: Jazz, Piano
- When: Several times a week
Pusser’s Bar
Falkenturmstraße 9
Named after a literary character from Gerhart Hauptmann’s novella, Bahnwärter Thiel is an iconic venue built from shipping containers and decommissioned subway cars. Its artistic design and industrial charm make it one of the most unique venues in Munich. Expect a mix of live bands, DJs, and cultural events that blend music, art, and performance in an innovative way.
- Genre: Electronic, Indie
- When: Year-round events, but mostly in the summer
Jazzclub Unterfahrt
Einsteinstraße 42
Established in the 1970s, Jazzclub Unterfahrt is one of Europe’s most respected jazz institutions. The venue is housed in a former beer cellar, creating an intimate and acoustic-friendly space for live music. Known for attracting world-class jazz musicians, it also provides a stage for emerging artists. The atmosphere is warm and unpretentious, perfect for serious jazz lovers.
- Genre: Jazz
- When: Live performances every night of the week
Substanz
Ruppertstraße 28
Substanz is a cornerstone of Munich’s alternative scene, offering a mix of live rock gigs and stand-up comedy. The venue has a raw, dive-bar feel, making it a great place to enjoy unpolished, high-energy performances. It’s a favorite among locals who love discovering emerging talent in a laid-back setting.
- Genre: Rock
- When: Several nights a week
Kongressbar
Theresienhöhe 15
This retro-styled bar brings the glamour of the 1950s to life with its plush decor and round red-upholstered bar counter. Kongressbar is famous for its swing nights, where couples take to the floor to dance the night away. The bar also hosts weekly jam sessions, making it a hotspot for live jazz enthusiasts.
- Genre: Jazz, Swing
- When: Weekly
Jazzbar Vogler
Rumfordstraße 17
Located in the charming Glockenbachviertel, Jazzbar Vogler is known for its intimate, living-room-like atmosphere. The bar is a haven for jazz purists, with an emphasis on traditional and acoustic jazz. The cozy setting, combined with an impressive roster of local and international artists, makes it a must-visit for music lovers.
- Genre: Jazz
- When: Almost every evening
Lost Weekend
Schellingstraße 3
Lost Weekend is a café-bookstore hybrid that transforms into a music venue in the evenings. Known for its alternative vibe, it hosts indie and acoustic performances as well as experimental music nights. The laid-back, intellectual crowd and the venue’s commitment to cultural events make it a favorite for students and creatives.
- Genre: Indie, Acoustic
- When: Once a week or so
Mister B.’s
Rosenheimerstraße 5
A hidden gem for blues lovers, Mister B.’s is a small, cozy venue that brings together talented musicians and a warm, welcoming crowd. The intimate performances often feel like a private jam session, making it a memorable experience for attendees.
- Genre: Blues, Jazz, Funk
- When: Nearly every night
Where to Listen to Traditional Bavarian Music
Bavarian music is deeply rooted in the culture and traditions of Munich, and the best way to experience it is in the lively beer halls and cozy pubs that define the city’s social scene. These venues bring together the quintessential elements of Bavarian life: hearty food, frothy beer, and cheerful music played on traditional instruments like the zither, accordion, and alphorn.
While live music doesn’t take place every night, you can usually find a calendar of scheduled events on the breweries website.
- Hofbräuhaus München – Platzl 9
- Hofbräuhaus München – Arnulfstraße 52
- Hofbräuhaus München – Weinstraße 7
- Zum Franziskaner – Residenzstraße 9
- Augustiner Bräustuben – Landsberger Straße 19
- Wirtshaus in der Au – Lilienstraße 51
- Biergarten am Chinesischen Turm – Englischer Garten 3
