Munich is the beer capital of Germany, home to world-famous breweries, historic beer halls, and lively beer gardens. Whether you’re at Oktoberfest, Hofbräuhaus, or a neighborhood beer garden, knowing how to order beer like a local will enhance your experience and help you blend in with the crowd. Here’s what you need to know to confidently order a beer in Munich without looking like a tourist.

Know What to Order

Munich has a rich beer culture with specific styles that dominate the scene. Instead of just asking for “a beer,” know what’s commonly available:

  • Helles – A light, golden lager that is the most popular beer in Munich. If you’re unsure what to order, start with a Helles.
  • Weißbier (or Hefeweizen) – A wheat beer with a cloudy appearance and a smooth, slightly fruity taste. Served in a tall glass.
  • Dunkel – A dark, malty beer with caramel and roasted flavors. A great choice if you prefer a richer beer.
  • Radler – A mix of beer and lemonade (or Sprite), refreshing and lower in alcohol, perfect for warm days.
  • Maß – A one-liter mug of beer, the standard serving at beer gardens and Oktoberfest.

If you simply ask for “a beer” (Ein Bier), the server will likely bring you a Helles unless you specify otherwise.

Use the Right Phrases When Ordering

Munich locals don’t overcomplicate beer orders. Keep it simple:

  • Ein Helles, bitte. (One Helles, please.)
  • Ein Weißbier, bitte. (One wheat beer, please.)
  • Ein Radler, bitte. (One Radler, please.)
  • Eine Maß, bitte. (One liter of beer, please.)

If you want to sound even more like a local, use the Bavarian dialect:

  • A Hoibe, bitte. (A half-liter beer, please.)
  • A Maß, bitte. (A one-liter beer, please.)

Ordering Etiquette in a Beer Garden

  • Find Your Own Seat – In Munich’s beer gardens, seating is usually first come, first served. Feel free to share a table if there’s space.
  • Bring Your Own Food (Sometimes) – Many traditional beer gardens allow you to bring your own snacks but require you to buy drinks from them. Look for a “self-service” area (a table without waitstaff) where this is allowed.
  • Order at the Counter or From a Server – Some beer gardens have a self-service area where you go to a counter to order your beer, while others have table service. If it’s self-service, you’ll pay immediately and may have to return your glass to get your deposit (Pfand) back.
  • Return Your Glass – In self-service beer gardens, you may need to return your empty glass to the designated station to get your deposit back.

Want to fit in more like a local? Then check out these hidden beer gardens that are off the main tourist track!

Ordering Etiquette in a Wirtshaus (Traditional Beer Hall)

  • Wait to Be Seated – Unlike beer gardens, many traditional Bavarian restaurants and beer halls have designated seating. If unsure, ask a staff member where to sit.
  • Order Clearly and Simply – Servers are busy, especially in large beer halls, so be direct when ordering. Avoid asking for a menu just to see the beer selection—Helles or Weißbier are always available.
  • Expect Communal Seating – Many beer halls use long tables that are shared with strangers. If space is available, you can politely ask, “Ist hier noch frei?” (Is this seat free?).
  • Toasting Etiquette – Make eye contact before clinking glasses and say “Prost!” Clink glasses at the bottom of the mug, not the top.

Ordering at Oktoberfest or Other Festivals

  • Only Maß Are Served – Beer at Oktoberfest is served exclusively in one-liter Maß mugs. Asking for a smaller size will immediately mark you as a tourist.
  • Know Your Tent’s Beer – Each Oktoberfest tent serves beer from one of Munich’s six major breweries. If you have a favorite, choose your tent accordingly.
  • Order Early and Quickly – Oktoberfest waitresses serve multiple tables at once and carry large trays of beers. They expect fast, clear orders.
  • Be Prepared to Pay in Cash – Card payments are rare at Oktoberfest, so carry enough cash to cover your beer and tip.

Paying, Tipping, and Asking for the Check

  • Cash is Preferred – While some beer halls accept card payments, it’s always best to carry cash, especially in beer gardens and at festivals.
  • Tipping is Customary but Modest – In Munich, rounding up or adding 5-10% is standard. If your beer costs €11.50, you can round up to €12 or €13. If service was exceptional, a few extra euros are appreciated. You can read our full guide on how to tip in Munich for more information.
  • Ask for the Check Politely – Waiters will not automatically bring the check, so when you’re ready to leave, make eye contact and say “Zahlen, bitte” (Check, please). If in a group, specify whether you’re paying together or separately by saying “Zusammen” (together) or “Getrennt” (separately).
  • State Your Total When Paying – Instead of leaving money on the table and waiting for change, tell the server the total amount you’re paying, including the tip. For example, if your bill is €27 and you want to tip €3, say “Machen Sie 30” (Make it 30).