8 Best Austrian Beers You Must Try: The Ultimate Souvenir Guide by a 15-Year Travel Expert

• “Is Austria secretly a beer superpower?”
• “Which local brews are worth the suitcase space as souvenirs?”
• “And seriously… can I find a world-class pint for under €2?”

If these questions are bubbling in your head, welcome to the club.

Most travelers associate Austria with Mozart, Alpine hiking, and elegant coffee houses. Don’t get me wrong—I love a good Sachertorte as much as the next person. But after 15 years of exploring the world’s best pubs and breweries, I’ve realized that Austria’s true “liquid gold” is often overshadowed by its famous neighbors, Germany and the Czech Republic.

In reality, Austria quietly ranks as one of the world’s top beer consumers per capita (Source: Kirin Holdings 2023). Yet, so many of these incredible local brews never make it to the international market, making them the ultimate “hidden gems” for beer lovers.

Why should you trust this guide? Because I’m not just reciting a Wikipedia page. I’ve spent over a decade on the ground, tasting my way through Austrian “Beisls” (pubs) to find the perfect pairings. Whether it’s the crisp carbonation of a Pilsner cutting through a fatty Wiener Schnitzel or a refreshing Radler after a mountain hike, I’ve done the “hard work” so you don’t have to.

In this guide, I’ll share my top 8 handpicked Austrian beer brands that are perfect for your next trip—or your suitcase. From supermarket steals to brewery-only specialties, here is the ultimate guide to Austria’s best-kept liquid secrets.

8 Must-Try Austrian Beer Brands (The Expert’s List)

After 15 years of exploring the world, my recent trip to Austria left me with these five absolute favorites. I made sure to save room in my suitcase for everything from the rich Edelweiss Dunkel (#1) to the ultra-crisp Zipfer Drei (#8). Here is my expert selection of the ultimate souvenirs you need to bring home.

Selecting just eight from Austria’s vast beer landscape is no easy task. However, based on my 15 years of exploring local pubs and countless taste tests, I’ve narrowed it down to the “Liquid Gold” you absolutely cannot miss.

Whether you’re looking for a refreshing pint at a Viennese “Beisl” or an authentic souvenir to take home, here is a quick overview of my top picks.

#1: Edelweiss Dunkel — A Velvety “Dark Wheat” Experience

Beyond just “Dark”: It’s a rich, chestnut brown masterpiece that proves why wheat beer is the soul of the Alps.

Forget everything you know about watery lagers. When I first poured Edelweiss Dunkel, I was struck by its color—it’s not “black” like a stout, but a gorgeous, deep mahogany brown.

You can tell just by looking at that beautiful “cloudiness” (naturtrüb) that this beer is packed with flavor. For me, this is the ultimate “guilty pleasure” of Austrian wheat beers. It feels heavy and luxurious, yet it goes down surprisingly smooth.

Why it’s my personal favorite: Most people grab the yellow-labeled “Hefetrüb,” but as a seasoned traveler, I always reach for the Red Label (Dunkel). It’s got that signature banana-like sweetness you expect from a wheat beer, but with an added layer of roasted goodness that reminds me of freshly baked bread.

• The “Moose” Taste Test: Imagine the fruitiness of a ripe banana meeting the smoky sweetness of caramel. It’s velvety on the tongue and has a tiny hint of Alpine herbs that makes you want to take another sip immediately.

• The “Real World” Pairing: While experts suggest fancy pairings, I love this with a heavy, crispy Wiener Schnitzel. The bubbles cut right through the fried crust, and the malty sweetness balances out the savory meat. It’s a match made in heaven!

• Souvenir Hack: You’ll find these for around €1.50 – €1.80 at any BILLA or SPAR. I always save some space in my suitcase for a few cans—they are the perfect way to bring the “Alpine vibe” back home.

#2: Die Weisse — The “Champagne” of Salzburg’s Wheat Beers

A Salzburg Legend: The iconic swing-top bottle isn’t just tradition—it’s the seal of Austria’s oldest wheat beer craft.

If you’re in Salzburg and want to drink like a true local, you look for the bottle with the porcelain stopper. Established in 1901, Die Weisse is the city’s oldest wheat beer brewery, and they still do things the “slow way.”

The first thing I love about this beer is the satisfying “POP!” when you flip the swing-top (Plöppel-Flasche). It’s the sound of fresh, Alpine craftsmanship. Unlike mass-produced lagers, this is bottle-conditioned, meaning it’s alive and sparkling with natural carbonation.

Why it’s a “Gem” in my book: While Edelweiss is your “mountain hug,” Die Weisse is like the Champagne of beers. It pours a beautiful hazy amber—what I call “Sunset Gold”—and the foam is so thick and creamy you could almost eat it with a spoon.

• The “Moose” Taste Test: It’s incredibly zesty. You get that classic hit of ripe banana and clove, but it’s followed by a refreshing, citrus-like fizz that wakes up your palate. It’s light enough for a sunny afternoon but complex enough to satisfy a beer nerd.

• The “Real World” Pairing: Forget the fancy dining—I want this with a warm, salty Pretzel or a plate of Weisswurst (white sausage). The acidity in the beer cuts right through the salt and dough.

• Where to Score: You won’t find this as easily as the big brands. Look in BILLA Plus or SPAR Gourmet (the fancy ones). Expect to pay around €2.50 – €3.00. It’s a bit of a splurge, but that heavy glass bottle makes the best souvenir ever.

#3: Wieselburger Schwarzbier — The “Black Diamond” of Lower Austria

Tradition You Can Hear: The iconic “clink” of the Wieselburger swing-top bottle opens the door to a world of deep, roasted malt perfection.

If the wheat beers we’ve tried so far are the “pop stars” of Austrian brewing, Wieselburger Schwarzbier is the deep, soulful bass. This isn’t your everyday light lager—it’s a dark, bottom-fermented beauty that proves “black” doesn’t have to mean “heavy.”

The experience starts before the first sip. That heavy porcelain swing-top (Stammbräu bottle) gives a loud, metallic “clink” and a satisfying pop that tells everyone in the room you know your beer. It pours a stunning, deep ebony color, crowned with a fine, caramel-colored foam that looks like a work of art.

Why it’s a “Dark Horse” in my book: Unlike a thick Irish stout, this Schwarzbier is surprisingly crisp. It has the soul of a dark beer but the drinkability of a lager. It’s “Schwarz” (black) in color, but “Lager” in spirit—meaning you can easily enjoy more than one.

• The “Moose” Taste Test: On the nose, you get a beautiful hit of dark chocolate and freshly roasted coffee beans. On the tongue, it’s remarkably smooth with a gentle bitterness that balances the malty sweetness. It’s dry, clean, and leaves you wanting just one more bite of something savory.

• Where to Score: Look for the distinctive brown bottles with the swing-top in BILLA or SPAR. Expect to pay around €1.60 – €2.00. It’s a premium local favorite that feels like a piece of Austrian history in your hand.

#4:Stiegl Weisse — The “Hazy Gold” of Salzburg

Alpine Freshness: Stiegl-Weisse’s beautiful hazy golden glow and creamy foam make it the ultimate refreshing wheat beer.

What I love about this beer is its natural, rustic look. While the brewery might call it amber, when you hold it up to the light in a Salzburg beer garden, it’s a gorgeous, cloudy golden-yellow. It looks alive, fresh, and unfiltered—exactly how a real Weissbier should be.

If you visit Salzburg, the “Red Steps” logo of Stiegl is your North Star. It’s everywhere, but don’t just settle for their standard Goldbräu (Lager). If you want to drink like you’ve actually “arrived” in Austria, the Stiegl-Weisse is the one you order.

Brewed with water from the nearby Untersberg mountain, you can practically taste the Alpine freshness. The texture is what truly sets it apart—Stiegl is famous for its exceptionally fine-pored foam. It’s so dense and stable that it stays with you until the very last drop, protecting all those delicate aromas inside the glass.

• The “Moose” Taste Test: It hits you first with a bright, fruity banana aroma, but it’s not overly sweet. There’s a mild, spicy undertone (think a touch of clove) and a clean, zesty finish that makes it incredibly refreshing on a warm afternoon.

• Where to Score: You can find these nationwide in BILLA, SPAR, or Hofer for around €1.30 – €1.70. It’s the “Gold Standard” of Austrian wheat beers that you can rely on anywhere.

🍖 The Perfect Pairing (Moose’s Choice)

If you’re wondering what to order with your Stiegl-Weisse, there is only one answer: Beef Goulash (Rindsgulasch).

This is the reality of an Austrian bar! A half-finished, fruity Stiegl-Weisse paired with rich goulash and chewy Knödel. It’s a “dangerously addictive” cycle—take a bite, take a sip, and repeat. You have to experience this harmony for yourself!

In my years of exploring Austrian pubs, this combination remains my absolute favorite. The magic lies in the “Flavor Duet” between the two.

The deep, savory richness of the slow-cooked goulash sauce meets the subtle, malty sweetness of the wheat beer in perfect harmony. The lively carbonation of the Stiegl-Weisse cuts through the heavy spices of the gravy, while the beer’s creamy texture softens the heat of the paprika. It’s not just a meal; it’s a sensory experience that defines Austrian comfort food.

💡 Moose’s Insider Hint: Don’t Forget the Radlers!

While you’re at the bar (or a local SPAR), look out for the Radlers. Beyond just lemon, look for unique Austrian flavors like Elderflower (Holunder) or Grapefruit. It’s the perfect “reset button” after a heavy meal, and a local secret you won’t find in your average pub back home!

🍺 Pro Tip: Visit the “Beer Capital” of Austria!

If you’re in Salzburg tasting Stiegl, don’t just drink from the bottle. You can actually tour the historic Stiegl-Brauwelt, one of Europe’s most impressive beer museums, and enjoy a guided tasting session in their traditional cellar.

👉 [Check Stiegl Brewery Tour in Salzburg Availability on GetYourGuide]

#5: Ottakringer G’mischtes — The “Best of Both Worlds” from Vienna

The Vienna Hybrid: Can’t decide between light or dark? Ottakringer G’mischtes is the perfect “Half & Half” harmony that captures the spirit of the capital.

When you’re in Vienna, you’ll see the giant yellow brewery tower of Ottakringer. While everyone knows their “Helles,” the real local secret is the G’mischtes. In German, it means “mixed,” and it’s a brilliant blend of light lager and dark beer right from the tap (or bottle).

It pours a stunning amber-copper, almost like a sunset over the Danube. It’s the perfect answer for those days when you want the richness of a dark beer but the refreshing “snap” of a classic lager.

Why it’s a “Masterpiece of Balance” in my book: Most people try to mix beers themselves and end up with a mess, but Ottakringer has mastered the ratio. It has the roasted, nutty soul of a Dunkel but stays light and effervescent like a Helles. It’s sophisticated, balanced, and deeply Viennese.

• The “Moose” Taste Test: The first sip gives you a hint of caramel and toasted malt, but it’s immediately followed by a crisp, hoppy finish. It’s not sweet, and it’s not heavy—it’s just incredibly “drinkable.”

• Where to Score: You can find these in almost every BILLA or SPAR in Vienna for around €1.20 – €1.60. If you’re at a Heuriger (wine tavern) or a local pub, look for it on the menu—it’s often the locals’ favorite choice.

🏙️ Experience the Heart of Vienna’s Brewing

Love the gritty, honest vibe of Ottakringer? You can visit the massive yellow brewery right in the 16th district. It’s the epicenter of Vienna’s beer culture, and a guided tour here ends with a generous tasting that makes you feel like a true local.

👉 [Book Your Vienna Ottakringer Experience Here]

#6: Gösser Märzen — The “Undisputed King” of Austrian Lagers

The Green Standard: Whether it’s in a mountain hut or a city supermarket, the iconic Gösser Märzen can is the true “National Beer” of Austria.

If there is one sight that defines the Austrian landscape, it’s the simple, deep green can with bold white “Gösser” lettering. It doesn’t need flashy graphics or complicated labels. In every BILLA, SPAR, and Hofer across the country, this green icon is the first thing you see in the beer aisle. It’s the “everyman’s beer”—reliable, consistent, and brewed with 100% Austrian ingredients.

It pours a brilliant, crystal-clear gold with a lively, dancing carbonation. It doesn’t try to be fancy; it’s the ultimate “safety” beer. Whether you’re grabbing a cold can for a picnic or finding it on tap at a local Gasthaus, it always delivers that same crisp, refreshing snap that Austrians have loved for generations.

Why it’s the “Gold Standard” in my book: In my 15 years of traveling here, Gösser is the one constant. It’s the “backbone” of Austrian beer culture. It’s the beer you drink when you want something honest, cold, and perfectly balanced.

• The “Moose” Taste Test: It has a gentle malty sweetness at the start, followed by a very clean, mild hoppy finish. It’s incredibly balanced—neither too bitter nor too sweet. It’s just “pure beer” flavor that hits the spot every single time.

• Where to Score: Literally everywhere. Every BILLA, SPAR, Hofer, and even gas stations. It’s the most accessible beer in the country, usually priced around €1.10 – €1.40.

#7: Murauer Märzen — The “Pure Water” Pearl of Styria

Fresh from the Tap: There’s nothing like Murauer Märzen Vom Fass. Served in a classic rounded seidel, this is Styrian purity at its absolute finest.

While the big brands dominate the cities, Murauer is the darling of the Styrian mountains. This brewery is famous for its commitment to purity, using some of the softest, cleanest water in the Alps. You can really taste the difference—it feels “lighter” and more elegant than your average lager.

When you order this “Vom Fass” (on tap) at a traditional Gasthaus, it arrives in a rounded, heavy glass mug (Krügerl). It’s a pale, shimmering yellow with a delicate white foam. This is the beer you drink when you want to appreciate the subtle art of brewing. It has a silky mouthfeel that makes you stop and say, “Wait, why is this so smooth?”

• The “Moose” Taste Test: Look for a delicate floral aroma and a very soft, biscuit-like maltiness. The bitterness is there, but it’s sophisticated and fades away quickly, leaving your mouth feeling fresh and clean.

• Where to Score: Very common in Styria and Salzburg restaurants. In supermarkets like SPAR or BILLA, it’s around €1.20 – €1.50.

🍖 The Perfect Pairing (Moose’s Choice): The “Zwiebel-Harmony”

If you see Zwiebelrostbraten (Onion Roast Beef) on the menu, you MUST pair it with a fresh Murauer. In fact, as you can see in my photo, I was so excited by this combination that I’d already polished off more than half my glass before I even remembered to take a picture!

This is the messy, glorious reality of Austrian dining! I was so excited I’d already drunk more than half my fresh Murauer Märzen Vom Fass. But look at that Zwiebelrostbraten—it’s the perfect ‘Zwiebel-Harmony,’ with that beef steak topped with a delicious, crispy layer of fried onions. Pairing this with the soft Styrian beer is an absolute must!

Why this combination is “Criminally Good”: This dish is a powerhouse of savory flavors, but it’s all about the balance. The beef is tender, and the generous layer of crispy, fried onions adds a sweet, salty crunch that makes every bite addictive.

A heavier beer might overwhelm the palate, but Murauer is the perfect counterpoint. Its incredibly soft mountain water and gentle carbonation slice through the richness of the onions, while the mild maltiness embraces the savory gravy. It’s not just a meal; it’s a “Zwiebel-Harmony” where the beer and the beef elevate each other to a whole new level.

#8: Zipfer Drei — The “Low-ABV” Masterpiece of Refreshment

Light but Mighty: Zipfer Drei may only be 3% alcohol, but its full-bodied hop flavor makes it the ultimate refreshing choice for a long afternoon.

To wrap up my top 8, I have to introduce a beer that changed my mind about “light” beers: Zipfer Drei. In a country where 5% lagers are the norm, this 3% ABV (Alcohol by Volume) gem is a revelation. It’s not “watered down”—it’s “honed down” to perfection.

Zipfer is famous for using exclusive natural hops, and you can really taste it here. It pours a shimmering, pale straw-gold with a mountain of crisp white foam. The carbonation is tiny and intense, making every sip feel like a fresh Alpine breeze.

Why it’s my “Secret Weapon” in my book: After 15 years of beer hunting, sometimes you want the flavor without the heavy buzz. Zipfer Drei is the perfect “session beer.” It has the full, bready malt profile of a premium lager but with a lightness that lets you stay sharp and refreshed. It’s the beer I grab when I want to keep the party going without the fatigue.

• The “Moose” Taste Test: It’s all about the hop character. You get a bright, floral, and slightly grassy aroma right away. The finish is incredibly dry and snappy—there’s zero cloying sweetness here. It’s the definition of “crisp.”

• Where to Score: Widely available in BILLA, SPAR, and Hofer. Look for the “Drei” (3) branding on the white label. Usually priced around €1.10 – €1.40.

👟 The “Hidden Gems” Walking Tour

Finding the perfect Murauer or a crisp Zipfer Drei is an art. Join a local beer expert on a walking tour through the hidden backstreets of Salzburg or Vienna to find the ancient Gasthaus that most tourists miss.

👉 [Reserve Your Spot on the Beer & Culture Walking Tour]

Final Section: Ready to Taste the Alps?

So, there you have it—my Top 8 Austrian Beers that have fueled my 15 years of solo travels across this beautiful country. From the hazy wheat beers of Salzburg to the crisp, low-ABV “Drei” from the mountains, each of these brews tells a story of tradition, purity, and that unmistakable Alpine freshness.

Whether you’re sitting in a sun-drenched beer garden with a plate of Zwiebelrostbraten or grabbing a simple green can from a local SPAR for a picnic by the river, these aren’t just drinks. They are the keys to experiencing the real Austria, the way the locals do.

🏰 A Quick Sip of History

While Austria’s beer culture dates back to the 8th century, you don’t need a history book to feel it. Just look for the “Brauhaus” signs in cities like Salzburg and Vienna. Whether it’s the natural hops of Zipfer or the “mixed” tradition of Ottakringer, every glass you’ve read about here is a living piece of Austrian heritage.

🎒 Moose’s Beer Traveler’s Essentials

To truly enjoy these 8 legends like a local, you need the right tools. Here are my “survival” picks that I never travel without:

• The “Must-Have” Bottle Opener: You’ll find many Austrian beers (like the Stiegl or Gösser cans) are easy, but for those classic bottles, I always carry this [Compact Heavy-Duty Opener]. It’s saved me more than once on a train ride through the Alps!

• Stay Cold, Stay Fresh: Nothing ruins a good Märzen like it getting warm. I use this [Insulated Beer Sleeve] for my supermarket hauls to keep that “fridge-cold” snap while I’m people-watching in the Mirabell Gardens.

• The Pro Taster’s Journal: Don’t forget which one was your favorite! I log every “Flavor Duet” in this [Pocket Beer Tasting Log].

🔗 Keep Exploring!

If you loved this beer guide, you’ll definitely want to check out:

• Hungary Beer Recommendations: 8 Local Brews You Shouldn’t Miss
• 5 Best Ways to Get from Vienna Airport to City Center: Complete Guide to Trains, Buses, and Taxis