How long does it take to walk from the Altstadt to Augustiner Bräu Mülln?

The walk takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes from the city center. It is a scenic route that follows the Salzach river or goes through the historic city gates, making it a very pleasant neighborhood stroll.

Is the Augustiner Bräu Mülln worth visiting?

Absolutely, it is considered a 'local favorite' and one of the most authentic beer halls in Europe. It is famous for its traditional self-service ritual using stone mugs and its massive historic beer garden.

Can I do a self-guided walk of Salzburg's breweries?

Yes, Salzburg is very walkable and most major breweries are located within a 2-mile radius of the city center. A self-guided walk allows you to spend as much time as you like in the beer gardens without being rushed by a group.

What is the oldest restaurant in Salzburg?

St. Peter Stiftskulinarium is the oldest, with its first recorded mention in 803 AD. It has served historical figures like Mozart and Haydn and is a must-see for history buffs.

Are there non-alcoholic options on this brewery route?

Yes, every stop on this route offers a variety of non-alcoholic beverages, including traditional Austrian herbal sodas like Almdudler and locally produced juices, alongside full food menus.

Is this walking route suitable for families?

Yes, Salzburg's beer culture is very family-friendly. Places like Augustiner Bräu and Stiegl-Brauwelt have large outdoor spaces where children are welcome and often have play areas nearby.

What is the best time of day for this walk?

The best time to start is around 3:00 PM or 4:00 PM. This allows you to see the historic sites in the afternoon and arrive at the larger beer gardens just as the evening atmosphere begins to pick up.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

2 hr 45 min

Duration

6

Stops

Moderate

Difficulty

About This Tour

Salzburg is often celebrated for its Mozart-infused melodies and baroque architecture, but beneath the surface of the 'Rome of the North' lies a frothy history fueled by 'liquid bread.' For centuries, the city’s monastic orders and independent brewers have refined the art of the malt, creating a brewing culture that rivaled the best in Bavaria. This self-guided walk invites you to explore the evolution of Salzburg’s beer scene, from the ancient cellars of St. Peter’s Abbey to the vibrant beer gardens of Mülln. Starting in the lively Schallmoos district at Die Weisse, you will discover the secrets of Salzburg’s white beer tradition. As you transition into the UNESCO-listed Altstadt (Old Town), the route weaves through historic taverns like Zwettler's Wirtshaus and the legendary St. Peter Stiftskulinarium, a site with records dating back over 1,200 years. You will witness how beer was once a necessity for monks during Lenten fasts and how it eventually became the social fabric of the city. The neighborhood stroll continues across the river toward the Augustiner Bräu, a monastic brewery where the atmosphere remains largely unchanged since the 17th century. Here, the tradition of fetching your own stone mug and rinsing it in a communal fountain is still very much alive. The journey concludes at the Stiegl-Brauwelt, the largest private brewery in Austria, offering a look at the industrial heritage and modern innovation that keeps Salzburg’s taps flowing today. This walking route is perfect for those who want to combine a historical walking tour Salzburg experience with a deep dive into local culinary traditions. Because this route involves several active hospitality venues, opening hours and seasonal availability of specific seasonal brews can vary; it is always wise to check current hours before beginning your self-guided adventure.

Highlights

The 1,200-year history of St. Peter Stiftskulinarium
Traditional stone mug service at Augustiner Bräu Mülln
Salzburg's oldest wheat beer brewery at Die Weisse
The sprawling beer gardens of the Müllner Bräu
A deep dive into industrial brewing at Stiegl-Brauwelt

Route Map

Numbers indicate the order of stops on the tour

Tour Stops (6)

1

Die Weisse

Begin your self-guided adventure at Die Weisse, Salzburg's oldest wheat beer brewery. Established in 1901 by Adelbert Behr, this spot became a local icon because it focused on 'Weissbier' (white beer) at a time when dark lagers dominated the region. The building itself exudes a rustic, turn-of-the-century charm. Notice the traditional brewing equipment and the cozy 'Stüberl.' For over a century, they have maintained a top-fermented brewing process that results in a naturally cloudy, refreshing ale. It’s the perfect place to see how a family-run operation survived the transition from the imperial era to the modern day while keeping their original recipes intact.

2

Zwettler's Wirtshaus

Heading into the heart of the Altstadt, you arrive at Zwettler's Wirtshaus. This traditional tavern represents the typical Salzburg 'Wirtshaus' culture—a place where locals and travelers have gathered for generations. The interior, with its heavy wood paneling and vaulted ceilings, tells the story of the city’s social history. In Salzburg, the pub was historically the 'living room' for the common citizen. While the menu often changes with the seasons, the focus here remains on regional ingredients and proximity to the city's oldest brewing traditions. It serves as a bridge between the historic guild-run breweries of the past and the vibrant culinary scene of today.

3

St. Peter Stiftskulinarium

Step into what is widely considered the oldest restaurant in Central Europe. St. Peter Stiftskulinarium was first mentioned in a document by the scholar Alcuin in 803 AD, during the time of Charlemagne. While today it is known for fine dining, its roots are deeply monastic. The monks of St. Peter’s Abbey were among the first to brew 'liquid bread' to sustain themselves during periods of fasting. As you look at the stone walls carved directly into the Mönchsberg cliff, imagine the centuries of pilgrims and royalty who have shared a drink in these very cellars. It is a cornerstone of Salzburg’s religious and culinary identity.

4

Sternbräu

Nestled between the Getreidegasse and Griesgasse, Sternbräu is one of the city's largest and most historic brewing sites. Although the building has seen modern renovations, there has been a brewery on this spot since 1542. It’s a fantastic example of how Salzburg’s brewing industry scaled up over the centuries. The complex features several themed rooms and a massive inner courtyard that serves as a popular summer retreat. Keep an eye out for the 'Stern' (Star) symbol, a traditional brewer's sign. This location highlights the transition of brewing from a small monastic craft to a significant urban industry that shaped the layout of the Old Town.

5

Augustiner Bräu Mülln

Follow the path toward the Mülln district to reach the Augustiner Bräu, often called the 'Müllner Bräu.' Founded by Augustinian monks in 1621, this is arguably the most authentic beer experience in Austria. The ritual here is timeless: you take a stone mug from the shelf, rinse it yourself at the wooden fountain, and then have it filled directly from the wooden barrel. The 'Schmankerlgang' (delicacy corridor) features various vendors selling local snacks like pretzels and smoked meats. The vast, high-ceilinged halls and the sprawling chestnut-shaded beer garden offer a glimpse into a communal way of life that has remained virtually unchanged for 400 years.

6

Stiegl-Brauwelt

The final stop on your walking route is Stiegl-Brauwelt. The Stiegl brewery dates back to 1492—the same year Columbus set sail—and moved to this location in Maxglan in the 19th century. The name 'Stiegl' refers to a small staircase that once led to the brewery's original site near a canal. Today, this is a massive 'world of beer' featuring a museum and a production facility. It represents the pinnacle of Salzburg’s brewing success, blending history with high-tech production. As you explore the grounds, you can see how the brewery became a symbol of Austrian independence and quality, remaining family-owned in an era of global conglomerates.

Frequently Asked Questions

The most comprehensive route for beer enthusiasts is the walk from the Altstadt to the Mülln district. This path includes historic sites like St. Peter Stiftskulinarium and the Augustiner Bräu, allowing you to experience over 1,000 years of brewing history in a single afternoon.