Our travel advisors raised their steins in celebration of the unforgettable memories made at Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany. From the lively traditional music and mouth-watering Bavarian cuisine to the endless flow of beer, Oktoberfest is an experience like no other. It is a celebration of culture and community, to attend with family, friends, or a group of party-goers.
What to Know
One of the highlights of Oktoberfest is the incredible beer tents, each with its own unique vibe, music, food, and drinks. Some tents are known for their traditional ambiance, while others turn into party hubs after dark. While you don’t need a reservation to wander around and explore the tents, if you’re planning to visit during the weekend or in the evenings, with family or a large group, our travel advisors can assist with tent reservations as early as January for the same year.
If you plan on sitting down for a meal or a beer, particularly with a large group, securing a table reservation ensures you’ll have a spot to enjoy the festivities without the hassle of waiting or being denied a table. If you’re attending Oktoberfest with your family, there are plenty of activities designed with younger attendees in mind. Tuesdays are designated as Family Days, with discounted rides and attractions for kids. Family-friendly amenities include kid menus, non-alcoholic beverages, stroller parking (for a fee), and family restrooms.
Daytime Tents: If you’re visiting with family or prefer a more laid-back experience, daytime at Oktoberfest is for you. With traditional music and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s the perfect time to enjoy hearty meals and classic brews with loved ones. Expect it to be a bit quieter and family-friendly during the daytime hours.
- Recommended Daytime Tents:
- Hacker Festzelt: A classic choice for traditional music and delicious food.
- Augustiner Festhalle: Known for its welcoming atmosphere and exceptional beer.
- Lowenbrau: A fan favorite for families and groups looking to enjoy a traditional experience.
Nighttime Tents: As the sun sets, the energy in the tents shifts. Evening and night-time celebrations tend to take on a more “party” vibe, with many of the tents transforming into vibrant clubs. Expect modern music, dancing, and a lively atmosphere that lasts well into the night.
- Recommended Nighttime Tents:
- Weinzelt: A great choice for wine lovers and those seeking a lively evening.
- Paulaner: A bustling tent that combines great beer with modern beats.
- Schutzen: Known for its vibrant, club-like atmosphere after dark.
What to Eat
Oktoberfest is just as much about the food as it is about the beer. You’ll find many traditional dishes inside the tents, but there are also plenty of festival vendors offering carnival-style foods for a quick bite between sips of beer. Some iconic dishes you simply can’t miss are Hendl (roast chicken), Schweinshaxe (crispy pork knuckle) Apfelstrudel (apple strudel), Schnitzel (breaded and fried meat), Kartoffelsalat (potato salad), Weißwurst (white sausage), and Flammkuchen (German-style pizza). Note, many tents and food stalls operate on a cash-only basis, so be sure to have enough euros on hand.
Where to Stay
With several hotels to choose from, our advisors can assist you with picking the perfect one to match your travel style. Here are some recommendations within walking distance of the festival grounds:
- Schwan Locke
- Residence Inn Munich Central (just ¼ mile to Oktoberfest)
- Aloft Munich
- Kempinski (luxury hotel near the shopping district)
- Platzl Hotel (located in Old Town)
- Rosewood Munich
- DO&CO Hotel
- Excelsior by Geisel (great restaurant on-site)
What to Wear
While traditional attire is not mandatory, wearing traditional Bavarian attire—Dirndls for women and Lederhosen for men—adds to the festive atmosphere and is widely encouraged. Avoid Halloween-style costume Dirndls, as these are frowned upon by the locals.
Oktoberfest involves a lot of walking and dancing, so wear comfortable shoes. While booties or heels may look cute with your Dirndl, they are not ideal for a day of celebrating.
Since Oktoberfest occurs in late September to early October, the weather can get chilly at night, so be sure to bring a jacket you’re comfortable leaving behind when you head into the tent. Avoid carrying a bulky coat, as it can become tiresome throughout the day.
Where Else to Go
While Oktoberfest itself is a massive draw, Munich is home to some stunning attractions. In Munich itself, don’t miss the Nymphenburg Palace, English Gardens, Marienplatz, BMW Museum, Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial, Hofbrauhaus, and St. Peter’s Church. If you have a few extra days, consider taking a day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle, Linderhof Palace, Zugspitze (Germany’s highest mountain), Berchtesgaden, Eagle’s Nest, Salzburg (home of the Sound of Music). We can certainly assist with booking transportation and accommodations throughout Bavaria and the surrounding areas.
Oktoberfest always promises to be full of traditions, new experiences, and plenty of beer to go around year after year. Be sure to mark your calendars and reserve your table early so you don’t miss out on the celebration. Get ready for a round of unforgettable memories in Germany!
