Frankfurt's best beer gardens

The Local's guide to Germany's best beer gardens makes an exception for Frankfurt's apple wine.

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Oberschweinstiege

This rustic guest house has been a feature of the woods surrounding Sachsenhausen since 1880. The perfect end to a scenic hike through the area, Oberschweinstiege occupies a peninsula jutting out into the man-made lake Jacobiweiher. The spot is named for the pigs stalls that used to stand here in the Middle Ages, but never fear: the look and smell have greatly improved since the days of the Holy Roman Empire. Enjoy a freshly-poured Hefeweizen and one of the many local Hessian specialities on the gravel-covered terrace, where up to 400 guests can convene in the sun or shade. Don't forget to try the apple wine and perhaps some homemade cake with fresh-roasted coffee for dessert.

0.4L beer from €2.60
Open daily from 10 am
www.oberschweinstiege.com



Gerbermuehle

The former site of a tannery and mill, the Gerbermühle reflects perhaps one of the most Hessian of Frankfurt's many faces. A newly-erected designer hotel, however, doesn't threaten the timeless charm of this historical location with its refreshingly traditional biergarten on the southern bank of the Main River. As the story goes, this was the place where Goethe conducted his famous affair with the wife of the wealthy banker Willemer – a reminder of Frankfurt's deep roots as both a financial and cultural centre. Reopened in 2007 after renovations, the 500-seat venue will whisk you back in time, with the clean-cut modern bankers creating a nice bit of historical juxtaposition. Weekends see the grounds fill with young families, all enjoying "Speis und Trank" in good Hessian fashion.

0.5L beer from €4.20
Open daily from 1:30 pm
www.gerbermuehle.de



Zur Stalburg

Those seeking a slightly different beer garden experience can mosey on over to Zur Stalburg, a centrally-located Apfelweinkneipe, or apple wine pub. As such, this venue, situated in a cosy patch of trees in the heart of Frankfurt, does not qualify as a beer garden in the traditional sense. Nonetheless, patrons can enjoy some freshly-tapped dark beer in addition to house-pressed apple wine – a Frankfurt speciality. Don't hesitate to check out the adjoining theatre: this institution is well-known throughout Frankfurt for its unusually large repertoire of self-produced plays. All of the delicious food and drink available in the garden outside is also available for consumption inside during performances – just be sure to order your grub before the show begins.

Open daily from 4 pm
www.stalburg.de



Bürgelstollen

What this locale perhaps lacks in the cheap-dining department, it certainly makes up for in atmosphere. Patrons to Bürgelstollen sit perched atop a woodsy hillside with an incredible view over the city pool, not to mention the Frankfurt skyline. Hessian specialities abound here, including traditionally-prepared frankfurters and apple wine on tap. Fans of Kölsch-style beer enjoyment will be pleased to find this here along with Schwarz and Hefe beers. Cold dishes and menu options for the kids round out the gastronomic offerings here. It all makes Bürgelstollen one of Frankfurt’s most breathtaking beer garden experiences.

0.25L beer from €2.00
Open daily from 5 pm
www.buergelstollen.de



Deck8

We admit it lacks gravel, the greenery isn't native, and you're not allowed to bring your own food. Despite the shortage of traditional beer garden features, Deck8 is an experience in its own right. Situated atop the parking garage to Frankfurt's Peek & Cloppenburg building, this high-elevation beach bar affords patrons a breathtaking view of the impressive "Mainhatten" skyline. Up to 500 guests can sit or lay about pools and palm trees over 1700 square metres of roof space. Plus, never fear the rain at this location, as a glass house allows guests to stay dry and still enjoy the gorgeous view. Beware the small €3 cover charge after 6 pm.

0.33L beer from €3.00
Open daily from 11 am
www.deck8.com/