For beer lovers planning a trip to Düsseldorf, exploring a traditional brewpub, or brauhaus in German, is a must-try activity. While Cologne is famous for its crisp Kölsch, Düsseldorf proudly contrasts with its own signature brew: Altbier.
Literally translating to “old beer,” Altbier is a top-fermented ale with a rich copper hue and a balanced, malty profile. Altbier is served in small glasses (usually 200ml or 300ml), and the breweries have perfected their recipes over centuries. Each brewery has its own twist on Altbier, paired with hearty German fare and a lively atmosphere.
Ready to taste Düsseldorf’s legendary Altbier straight from the source? Join one of Art of Touring’s Düsseldorf walking tours! Combining a city walk with a brauhaus visit, this guided experience takes you to the city’s most iconic brewpubs, where you’ll sip freshly tapped Altbier, learn about each brewery’s unique history, and uncover local secrets with a friendly, beer-loving guide. Whether you’re a seasoned beer aficionado or a curious traveler, this tour is the perfect way to drink like a Düsseldorfer.
6 Best Breweries for Altbier in Düsseldorf
Uerige
If there is one brewery synonymous with Düsseldorf Altbier, it’s Uerige. This is THE Altbier spot in Düsseldorf. The atmosphere at Uerige is unmatched – it’s loud, bustling, and full of character. Go behind the scenes of a tour at Uerige on our Instagram Reels! Uerige’s Altbier is robust, slightly bitter, and intensely flavorful, appealing to those who prefer a more hop-forward profile. Locals often joke that the Altbier is as bitter as the grumpy waiters who serve it – both are part of the charm. The historic building is divided into several rooms, each with its own vibe, from intimate wooden chambers to larger beer halls.
- Address: Berger Str. 1
- Website: http://www.uerige.de/
Brewery Schumacher
Founded in 1838, Schumacher proudly claims to be the oldest Altbier brewery in Düsseldorf. Located slightly outside the Altstadt, this brewery offers a calmer experience compared to the tourist-heavy spots. Schumacher’s Altbier is well-balanced – malty, smooth, and easy to drink. They also offer a seasonal version called Latzenbier, a stronger Altbier with an alcohol content of 5.5% that is only served three times a year. It is traditionally brewed with more malt, which gives it a fuller-bodied flavor.
- Address: Oststraße 123
- Website: http://www.brauerei-schumacher.de/
Zum Schlüssel
Located on the bustling Bolkerstraße, Zum Schlüssel has been brewing Altbier since 1850. Its name, meaning “The Key,” hints at its historic role as a gathering place for locals. Their Altbier is slightly sweeter and maltier than its competitors, making it a great starting point for your brewery crawl. The brewery itself is a blend of rustic charm and vibrant energy, with multiple rooms that fill quickly during peak hours.
- Address: Bolkerstraße 41-47
- Website: http://www.zumschluessel.de/
Brewery Füchschen
The name Füchschen, meaning “Little Fox,” perfectly captures the friendly, welcoming nature of this brewery. Füchschen Altbier is smooth with a slightly nutty finish, making it one of the most approachable brews in town. Located on Ratinger Str., it’s a hotspot for both locals and tourists. During the Karneval season, Füchschen is legendary for its festive atmosphere. Even outside of the festivities, it’s a fantastic place to experience the social side of Düsseldorf’s beer culture.
- Address: Ratinger Str. 28
- Website: http://www.fuechschen.de/
Brauerei Kürzer
A modern twist on the traditional Altbier experience, Brauerei Kürzer is the newest addition to Düsseldorf’s beer scene. Opened in 2010, it quickly gained a following among younger crowds. Kürzer’s Altbier is refreshing, slightly lighter, and brewed in small batches right on site. The brewery has a sleek, contemporary interior that contrasts with the classic wood-paneled brewpubs elsewhere. If you want to see how Düsseldorf is reinventing its brewing traditions, Kürzer is the place. It’s also a popular stop late at night, with music and a lively crowd.
- Address: Kurze Str. 20
- Website: http://www.brauerei-kuerzer.de
Im Goldenen Kessel
Just across from Zum Schlüssel sits Im Goldenen Kessel, a brewpub owned by Schumacher. It offers the same renowned Schumacher Altbier but in a more central and lively setting. The beer here is identical to Schumacher’s original location, but the atmosphere is more in line with the Altstadt buzz. Goldener Kessel serves as both a brewery taproom and restaurant, meaning you can enjoy Schumacher’s brews alongside traditional German dishes without leaving the heart of the city. It’s an ideal spot if you want great beer without venturing far from the main drag.
- Address: Bolkerstraße 44
- Website: http://www.schumacher-alt.de/
Tips for Enjoying Altbier in Düsseldorf
Düsseldorf’s Altbier breweries offer an unforgettable mix of tradition, flavor, and atmosphere. However, there are a few simple rules that you need to know before ordering your first round of beer in Düsseldorf.
- Expect quick service – the servers here (known as Köbes) are known for placing fresh glasses on your table without asking, so pace yourself! They’ll keep track of how many beers you’ve had by marking a tick mark on your coaster. Place your coaster on top of your glass to signal you’re done.
- The Köbes Spiel: Don’t be surprised if the waiters are a bit cheeky or even rude. It is all part of their role or their game. They are known for being gruff, so don’t be offended.
- Small Glasses, Big Flavor: Altbier is served in 200ml or 300ml glasses, meaning you’ll be able to try multiple breweries without overdoing it.
- Brewery Crawl: The breweries are close enough to visit several in one night – a perfect way to sample different takes on Altbier.
- Cheers with eye contact: Germans are superstitious about cheers without eye contact, so MAKE SURE you are looking your drinking buddies in the eyes as you say “Prost!”.
