While little concrete is known about how covid-19 spreads, the risk of contracting the virus is significantly higher inside than outside. 

This has meant outdoor venues have experienced a surge in popularity – which is nowhere more evident than in the humble German Biergarten. 

Known as being synonymous with Bavaria, beer gardens are scattered all over Germany. 

Ingrid Hartges, managing director of the German Hotel and Restaurant Association, told the German Press Agency that beer gardens and outdoor terraces have not seen such an uptick in interest since the country put in place a smoking ban 

“This Bavarian invention has started a triumphal march across Germany,” Hartges said. 

“You can enjoy a wonderful vacation from everyday life to relax for a few hours in the evening.” 

With coronavirus concerns prompting many Germans to vacation at home in 2020, plenty have set their sights on beer gardens to get a taste of that Urlaubsgefühl (holiday feeling) at home. 

In Bavaria, some beer gardens have been in use since the 19th century – while others have sprung up in recent years. 

Councils and municipal authorities across Germany, sensing the importance of allowing social interaction while minimising infection risk, have begun approving the use of public space for commercial premises – for instance allowing tables and chairs to be placed in public parks, squares and on sidewalks.

‘Corona Beer Garden’

One of the country’s most famous beer garden during the corona pandemic is not in Bavaria at all. 

Cologne’s ‘Corona Beer Garden’ launched once restrictions were lifted and has been fully booked ever since. 

The ‘garden’ is placed along a 270-metre long blocked section of road, which can accommodate up to 450 people in the city’s centre. 

The 'Corona Beer garden' in Cologne. Image: DPA