Greifenklau Brewery and Keller
A beloved hilltop brewery in Bamberg serving legendary Franconian Schäuferla and local Kellebier in a charming Biergarten.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more local vibe
Greifenklau Brewery and Keller
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more local vibe
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beloved hilltop brewery in Bamberg serving legendary Franconian Schäuferla and local Kellebier in a charming Biergarten.
"Some of the best food I've had in my life, I don't understand how it can be so good."
🚶♀️ The Climb is Worth It
The walk up the hill is part of the experience! Wear comfy shoes.
🍽️ Schäuferla is a Must-Try
Franconia is known for it! Order the roasted pig's shoulder for a truly authentic taste.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Authentic Franconian Cuisine
Restaurant
Savor melt-in-your-mouth meatloaf, silky dumplings, and the legendary Schäuferla (roasted pig's shoulder).
Local Kellerbier
Beer Garden & Restaurant
Enjoy a refreshing, quaffable Kellebier, brewed nearby, perfect for a hot day under leafy trees.
Carved Wooden Crest
Interior
Admire the impressive, intricately carved wooden crest adorning the brewery's interior.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Hilltop Charm
Book Ahead for Peak Times
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ The Climb is Worth It
The walk up the hill is part of the experience! Wear comfy shoes.
🍽️ Schäuferla is a Must-Try
Franconia is known for it! Order the roasted pig's shoulder for a truly authentic taste.
🍻 Try the Kellebier
This local brew is super quaffable, especially in the Biergarten.
📅 Reserve Your Table
Especially for groups or during peak times, booking ahead is wise.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ The Climb is Worth It
The walk up the hill is part of the experience! Wear comfy shoes.
🍽️ Schäuferla is a Must-Try
Franconia is known for it! Order the roasted pig's shoulder for a truly authentic taste.
🍻 Try the Kellebier
This local brew is super quaffable, especially in the Biergarten.
📅 Reserve Your Table
Especially for groups or during peak times, booking ahead is wise.
🖼️ Admire the Crest
Don't miss the beautifully carved wooden crest inside the brewery.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Greifenklau Brewery for its exceptionally delicious and authentic Franconian cuisine, particularly the legendary Schäuferla and silky dumplings. The local Kellebier and the charming hilltop Biergarten atmosphere are also major draws. While the walk up can be challenging, most agree the rewarding food and local experience are well worth the effort.
"Some of the best food I've had in my life, I don't understand how it can be so good. Silky dumplings, meatloaf from heaven, pork cabbage gravy everything... The kitchen team can keep a secret because nowhere else comes close."
Benjamin K
"The beer garden was unfortunately closed, but there still was plenty of available seating inside. The wheat beer was excellent (from a nearby brewery). Other two beers were slightly above average. The crest of this brewery is pretty impressive (be sure to look at the craved wooden crest inside). They do sell some of their glasses for a reasonable price."
Mister Jon
"Yet another great Bamberg brewery. This one's up the hill so not as many people venture there but if you do, you'll be rewarded with a more local experience, great food and some very nice beer, too. Had only been here in winter but recently got to go to their Biergarten, which was even better than I had imagined. It was a godsend on a hot day with big leafy trees and a very quaffable Kellebier. Had some English friends with me and they had their first Schäuferla and it was a great one. Stopped back in December and had their Bock beer and the Christmas atmosphere was warm and cozy."
Beer Wanderers
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Greifenklau Brewery is located on a hill in Bamberg. The walk up is part of the experience and offers a more local feel away from the main tourist paths. Wear comfortable shoes as the path can be challenging on foot. Public transport options might be limited directly to the brewery, so walking or a short taxi ride from the city center is often recommended.
Parking directly at the brewery might be limited due to its hilltop location and local feel. It's advisable to check for nearby public parking options in Bamberg and be prepared for a walk up to the brewery. Many visitors opt to walk from the city center.
The most common and recommended way is to walk. It's a scenic, albeit sometimes challenging, uphill trek that rewards you with great views and a sense of accomplishment before enjoying your meal. A taxi is also an option if you prefer not to walk.
While there isn't one single designated route, follow signs towards the higher parts of Bamberg. The journey itself is part of the charm, allowing you to explore the less-trodden paths of the city.
Cycling is possible, but be prepared for steep inclines. The paths might not be ideal for all cyclists, and securing your bike at the top should be considered.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, you do not need to purchase tickets to enter Greifenklau Brewery. It operates as a traditional brewery and restaurant, and entry is generally free. You pay for food and drinks consumed.
Opening hours can vary, especially between seasons. It's best to check their official website or call ahead. The Biergarten may have different hours than the indoor restaurant.
Yes, reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak hours, weekends, and tourist seasons, to secure a table. This is particularly important if you are visiting with a group.
Visiting on weekdays during late afternoon or early evening generally offers a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds. Summer evenings are popular for the Biergarten, so expect more people then.
Yes, Greifenklau has a Biergarten that is a wonderful place to enjoy food and beer, especially on warm days under the shade of leafy trees. It's often described as even better than the indoor experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The absolute must-try is the Schäuferla (roasted pig's shoulder), renowned for its crispy rind and tender meat. Other highly recommended dishes include the silky dumplings (Kloß), meatloaf, and pork cabbage gravy. They also offer a delicious mashed kale (Grünkohl) as a side.
Greifenklau serves its own Kellebier, which is very quaffable and a local favorite. They also offer excellent wheat beer from a nearby brewery and seasonal brews like Bock beer in winter.
Traditional Franconian cuisine is heavily meat-focused. While they might have a side dish or two that could be adapted, dedicated vegetarian or vegan options are not typically highlighted. It's best to inquire directly with the staff.
Reviews consistently praise the friendly and helpful staff, even when the brewery is busy. They are known to be attentive and good at recommending beer choices.
The prices are generally considered reasonable for the quality and portion sizes, offering good value for authentic Franconian food.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the impressive carved wooden crest inside the brewery, the picturesque views from the hilltop location, and of course, the delicious Franconian dishes and local beer. The Biergarten setting on a sunny day is also very photogenic.
Yes, taking photos of the food, drinks, and the interior ambiance is generally welcomed. Be mindful of other diners and avoid intrusive photography.
Late afternoon light can be beautiful for capturing the exterior and the surrounding views. For food photography, whenever the dishes arrive fresh from the kitchen is ideal!
While Greifenklau itself is a destination, its hilltop location offers glimpses of Bamberg's charming cityscape. The walk up and down can also provide scenic photo opportunities of the town.
Yes, and you might even be able to purchase some of their unique beer glasses as souvenirs.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, it's important to note that the walk can be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues. The focus is on traditional, meat-heavy dishes, so options for picky eaters might be limited. Consider it a more rustic, authentic experience rather than a dedicated kid-friendly venue.
💰 Budget Travelers
While the walk up the hill is free, it's a good way to save on transportation costs. By focusing on the local Kellebier and the signature dishes like Schäuferla, you can enjoy a truly memorable Franconian meal at an affordable price point. It's a perfect example of how to eat well and authentically on a budget in Bamberg.
couples
Consider visiting during the evening for a more romantic ambiance, especially if you can snag a table with a nice view. The friendly service and the unique local experience make it a memorable outing for couples looking to enjoy the best of Bamberg's culinary traditions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Franconian Schäuferla
Beyond the Kloß, diners can choose between Sauerkraut or a side of Grünkohl (mashed kale) to accompany their Schäuferla. The combination of the rich, savory pork, the hearty dumpling, and the tangy or earthy side dish creates a deeply satisfying and authentic culinary experience. Many reviewers rave about the quality, stating that nowhere else quite compares.
For visitors, ordering the Schäuferla is almost a rite of passage when dining in Franconia. It's a dish that embodies the region's hearty, flavorful, and traditional approach to food. The preparation at Greifenklau is consistently praised for its perfection, making it a highlight for many who visit.
Experiencing the Local Keller Culture
The Biergarten at Greifenklau is particularly lauded, especially during warmer months. Under the shade of large, leafy trees, it provides a perfect respite on a hot day. The ambiance is described as even better than the indoor seating, offering a true taste of local life. Here, visitors can enjoy the brewery's signature Kellebier, a refreshing and highly quaffable beer brewed on-site or by a nearby brewery.
This 'Keller' culture is deeply ingrained in Bamberg's identity. It's not just about the beer and food; it's about the social experience, the connection to nature, and the enjoyment of simple pleasures. Visiting Greifenklau allows you to step away from the typical tourist trail and immerse yourself in an authentic Franconian tradition.
A Taste of Bamberg's UNESCO Heritage
The walk up to Greifenklau provides a unique perspective on Bamberg's topography and architecture. As you ascend, you can appreciate the city's layout and the charming, often picturesque, streets that characterize its historic core. The brewery's location contributes to the feeling of discovering a hidden gem, away from the more crowded attractions.
While Greifenklau is primarily a culinary destination, its setting enhances the overall Bamberg experience. It allows visitors to combine a gastronomic adventure with an appreciation for the city's rich history and unique urban planning, making it a well-rounded stop for anyone exploring this beautiful Bavarian city.





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