Munich puts the beer in Bavaria. The countless brewpubs, Bierhalle (beer halls), beer gardens and breweries include Paulaner, Spaten and Löwenbräu. Try the local Weizen (wheat beer) or smooth Helles (lager). After dark, check out the bars and clubs in Schwabing, Haidhausen and Kunstpark Ost.

Beer by the litre: Hofbrähaus
This central Munich institution (Am Platzl 9) is the place to find oompah bands in lederhosen and a riotous atmosphere. Around 4500 punters cram onto long wooden tables, where buxom waitresses serve beer in steins (litre glasses) with giant pretzels.

Best beer garden: Augustinerkellar
A favourite among Münchners, this vast beer garden and 19th-century wood-beamed house (Arnulfstrasse 52) seats 5000 thirsty punters on 130 tables. Shady chestnut trees keep the golden Edelstoff beer cool in summer.

Beer on the brain: Haus der 111 Biere
This young, popular drinking hole is set in the buzzing Schwabing district (Franzstrasse 3). True to its name, it serves 111 beers from 25 different countries, including the dangerously potent Doppelbock Kulminator.