Munich’s Oktoberfest is the most famous beer celebration in the world and a totally immersive experience. On October 12, 1810, future King Ludwig I married Princess Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen. They invited the citizens of Munich to celebrate the event. Everyone had so much fun that they did it again the next year, and they’ve been repeating the tradition ever since. It’s the world’s largest party, occurring the third week in September through first weekend in October each year.
A few things to know:
Make a reservation in a tent and for lodging in advance. We recommend either Marstall Festzelt or Festzelt Tradition. There is a chance you can get in without one but don’t count on it – book ahead with the tent you choose. If you don’t have a reservation you may face a longer line and have to befriend a local (this latter tactic works shockingly well and is way more fun, but also works better for small groups). Prices for lodging really go up and get in very short supply – booking in advance is recommended. If you are on a tight budget plan on commuting in, maybe from Salzburg – but it makes it more of a hassle.
Plan on being there the better part of a day or an entire day. Yes there’s beer but so much more – carnival rides, great food, and all around gemütlichkeit.
Each tent has its own atmosphere and culture – we’ve recommended our favorites, but take a look at the website and pick the one you like best and best suits your personality.
Not German? Don’t worry. Just grab a seat and you will be instantly welcomed as an honorary German. Oktoberfest is all about the party.
| The Oktoberfest takes place on the Theresienwiese (the big field on the lower left) near Munich City Centre. It is perfectly walkable from the Central Railway station or ‘Hauptbahnhof’ and the closest U-Bahn station to it Oktoberfest entrance is Theresienwiese. Be aware the U-Bahn gets very very busy during prime times. Finding it on foot is easy as you’ll be able to follow the masses of people walking there. As you look at the map, the tents are located in the upper left part of the field. The fun-fair more or less on the lower left and right | |
| https://www.oktoberfest.de/en | |
| https://www.google.com/maps/place/Oktoberfest/@48.1549731,11.4716251,12z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x479ddf0b00000001:0x3ed9301155bbadd3!8m2!3d48.15488!4d11.541836 |