TIPS FOR ATTENDING OKTOBERFEST IN MUNICH, GERMANY
If you're planning a fall European trip, Oktoberfest in Munich needs to be on your itinerary. It’s way more than just beer, it’s a full-on cultural experience filled with traditional Bavarian food, music, dancing, and some of the most fun crowds you’ll ever meet. Whether you're road-tripping through Germany or making this your main destination, here's everything you need to know to make the most of your time at Oktoberfest.
First Things First: What is Oktoberfest?
Oktoberfest is the world’s largest beer festival, held annually in Munich, Germany. It typically starts in mid-September and runs through the first weekend in October. The festival features massive beer tents hosted by different breweries, live music, traditional foods, and thousands of people dressed in lederhosen and dirndls celebrating all things Bavarian.
What to Expect at Oktoberfest
Giant beer tents that each have their own vibe and crowd
Tables full of travelers and locals singing along to German drinking songs
Servers carrying five steins in each hand like it's no big deal
Bratwurst, Bavarian pretzels, roast chicken, and more
A massive fairground with rides, food stands, and carnival games
Tips for Your Oktoberfest Experience
Bring cash: Most vendors inside the tents only accept cash. ATMs are available but can have long lines, so come prepared.
Choose one tent and stay put: You’ll likely have to wait in line to get into a tent, especially if you don’t have a reservation. Pick one that looks fun (we loved the Hofbräu tent) and plan to stay there for the night. Once you're in, it’s way easier to just stick it out than try to bounce around.
Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll be on your feet a lot between standing in lines, dancing on benches, and walking the fairgrounds, comfy footwear is key.
Go for the real outfit: Invest in a proper lederhosen or dirndl from a local shop or reputable online store like the one I found HERE. Skip the Halloween-costume versions. You’ll fit in better and it’ll last for years if you go again.
Meet new people: Oktoberfest is a global gathering. We ended up at a table in the Hofbräu tent with a group of Australians and had one of the best nights of our lives singing, dancing, and sharing stories over steins of beer and splitting pretzels.
Even if you're not a big beer person, you'll still have fun: The atmosphere, food, and music are enough to make the experience unforgettable. But spoiler: the beer actually tastes better here.
Road Trip Idea: Explore More of Bavaria
If you’re road-tripping through Germany, build your route around Munich but don’t stop there. A few add-ons to consider:
Neuschwanstein Castle: Just under two hours from Munich and is the inspiration for the Sleeping Beauty Castle
Rothenburg ob der Tauber: One of the most charming medieval towns in Germany
Berchtesgaden: For mountain views, lakes, and peaceful alpine scenery
