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How to Do Oktoberfest in Munich in 7 Steps (from an Expert)

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If you’re wondering how to do Oktoberfest in Munich, you’ve come to the right place.

As the former Oktoberfest trip manager for Bus2alps—a company that operates trips for study abroad students—I’ve been to Oktoberfest over 10 times in the last decade.

I’m probably one of the only people on Earth who can say they’ve kept 425 American study abroad students alive at the biggest drinking festival in the world!

But Oktoberfest is so much more than just the world’s biggest keg party. It’s a celebration of Bavarian culture, centered around its most famous export: beer. It’s a place where you can not only get your drink on (responsibly!), but also make new friends, try incredible food, enjoy music, and soak up the energy of Munich at its best.

From navigating the tents to finding the best food on the festival grounds, I’ve got all the tips you need to make the most of your Oktoberfest—whether it’s your first time in Germany or you’re back for round two (or ten).

Me in a traditional dirndl, smiling in front of a colorful stall selling heart-shaped Lebkuchenherz cookies at Oktoberfest in Munich. The cookies have bright icing with German phrases like “Schenk mir dein Herz” and “Meine liebe Prinzessin.”

OKTOBERFEST SOLO FEMALE TRAVEL RATING: ⭐️⭐️
Munich itself gets a 5/5 rating for solo female travelers. However, I’m not a huge fan of traveling solo to the world’s largest drinking festival—purely for safety reasons. It’s a great place to make friends and it’s possible to keep it budget-friendly in a hostel, but the binge drinking aspect makes it a risky solo trip in my eyes.

1. Where and When to Go

When you’re planning your trip to Oktoberfest, the first thing you need to know is when to book those flights! I’ve got you covered—here’s what you need to know to decide your dates.

Munich Oktoberfest 2025 Dates

Surprisingly, Oktoberfest doesn’t actually take place entirely in October. The festival usually kicks off in mid to late September, and wraps up in early October.

(If you’re thinking Septemberfest would be a more accurate name, I agree.)

The 190th Oktoberfest will take place from Saturday, September 20th to Sunday, October 5th, 2025 in Munich!

My friends Rosie and Lindsey at the 2023 Oktoberfest in Munich, smiling while holding large steins of beer and showing off a fun pretzel-shaped purse. They’re dressed in traditional dirndls, seated at a lively beer garden table surrounded by other festival-goers.
My friends at Oktoberfest 2023.

Where is Oktoberfest held in Munich?

Oktoberfest takes place at the famous Theresienwiese, a large open space not far from Munich’s Old Town.

The name “Theresienwiese” translates to “Therese’s Meadow”—it was named in honor of Princess Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen after her wedding to Crown Prince Ludwig in 1810, which marked the very first Oktoberfest.

Opening Weekend

Opening weekend at Oktoberfest kicks off on Saturday, September 20th, 2025!

The beer tents open at 9:00 AM, but they don’t actually start serving beer until 12:00 PM, when Lord Mayor Dieter Reiter (say that 10 times fast) taps the first barrel of Oktoberfest beer in the Schottenhamel Festhalle.

After the first barrel is tapped, you’ll hear 12 gunshots—the signal that the festival is officially underway and the beer can start flowing in the tents.

There’s also the Oktoberfest opening day parade, which starts at 11:00 AM on opening day. It begins at Josefspitalstraße and winds its way to Theresienwiese.

Surprisingly, despite 10 trips to Oktoberfest, I’ve actually never attended opening weekend 😭. But it’s on my list—I’m planning to go next year, and my goal is to see the barrel tapping and the opening day parade for the first time!

Best Time of Day to Visit

Opening weekend is probably the most memorable time to visit Oktoberfest, but unfortunately, it’s also one of the busiest.

If you’re visiting after opening weekend, the best time to go is definitely during the week, when many people are at work and you’ll have a much easier time finding a spot at a table.

If you’re planning to visit on a weekend, it’s not impossible to find a seat—just a little trickier. I’d just recommend getting to the beer tents a little earlier, around 10:00 AM or right after lunchtime to boost your chances.

Me standing and smiling in front of the Augustiner Bräu tent at Oktoberfest in Munich, wearing a black and beige dirndl. The festive tent is decorated with garlands and traditional Bavarian colors, with a crowd of people enjoying the lively atmosphere.

2. Getting to Munich and Around the City

When you’re planning your Oktoberfest trip, you’ll want to think about how you’re going to get around once you’re there.

Most people—for obvious reasons—skip the car rental. Not only are you visiting a major city, but you’re probably coming to enjoy copious amounts of delicious German beer.

Thankfully, Munich has a great public transportation system and an international airport, so getting there and getting around is easy. Here’s what you need to know.

Getting to Munich

If you’re arriving from the U.S. or another distant country, you’ll want to fly into Muenchen International Airport (MUC).

(Super random fact—but I find the Munich airport to be weirdly eerie. It’s honestly the quietest airport I’ve ever been to anywhere in the world. Let me know if you have the same experience in the comments when you visit!)

If you’re coming from Italy, Austria, the Czech Republic, or another nearby country, hopping on a train is another easy option. I’d recommend checking routes on Omio or Trainline to compare schedules and prices.

My friends Akum and Alysia at Oktoberfest 2023 in Munich, smiling and holding large steins of beer at a packed beer hall. Both are wearing colorful dirndls, seated at long wooden tables surrounded by festival-goers.

Getting around the City and to Oktoberfest

If you’re staying in the city center, Munich is super walkable and easy to navigate—Google Maps is really all you’ll need.

But if you’re staying a little farther out (which is a smart option if you’re visiting Oktoberfest on a budget), you’ll definitely want to take advantage of Munich’s efficient public transit system.

No matter where you’re staying, it’s easy to get to Oktoberfest. Just hop on the U-Bahn (subway) and take either the U4 or U5 lines. Get off at Theresienwiese or Schwanthalerhöhe—both stations are right by the festival grounds.

Munich also has Uber, but it’s not as regulated as in some other countries, and I’ve heard a few horror stories. If you’re using Uber or a taxi, stay vigilant. Always check that the license plate matches what you were given before you get in the car.

Okay, the bike is a joke—but in all seriousness, a citywide bike tour is one of my favorite things to do in Munich.

Me smiling on a bright blue bike during a Munich bike tour, wearing a red gingham skirt, black boots, and a denim jacket. I’m riding along a tree-lined path with a decorative metal railing and lush greenery in the background. This is a fun way to explore Munich beyond the beer tents.

3. Navigating the Beer Tents

When you’re visiting Oktoberfest in Munich, the majority of your days are going to be spent in the world-famous Oktoberfest tents—the best part of the festival.

The tents are where you’ll make friends, dance on tables, pay for overpriced pretzels, and drink up every drop of that delicious German beer. But there are a few things you need to know before diving headfirst into the tents.

More Oktoberfest tips coming up 👇🏼

Inside the lively Löwenbräu tent at Oktoberfest in Munich, packed with people in traditional Bavarian clothing enjoying steins of beer. The festive atmosphere features long wooden tables, colorful banners, and a sign for the “Mathäserbox” section under the tent’s bright yellow and white canopy. It's a great example of how to do Oktoberfest in Munich with the full beer hall experience.

Which Tents to Choose

There are 17 large and 21 small beer tents at Oktoberfest, and which one you choose really depends on what kind of vibe you’re looking for. Each tent offers a unique experience—from the music to the crowd to the type of beer served.

Some of my personal favorites over the years (for the vibes, music, and room to dance) include Löwenbräu, which was our absolute favorite in 2023, as well as the Augustiner, Hacker-Pschorr, Hofbräu, and Paulaner tents.

But honestly, figuring out your favorite tents is kind of a trial and error situation. Move around, see where the energy feels right, and take notes of the ones you love most for the next days!

If it makes you feel better, I’ve never had a bad experience at an Oktoberfest tent!(Unless you count the medical tent where I had to get 11 stitches after I “prosted” too hard back in 2019.)

Inside the Hacker-Pschorr tent at Oktoberfest in Munich, filled with people at long wooden tables enjoying steins of beer. The tent’s ceiling is painted sky blue with white clouds and golden stars, creating the “Himmel der Bayern” (Heaven of Bavaria) theme, with festive murals and a central bandstand in the background.

How to Get a Table (Reservations vs. Walk-ins)

In all transparency, I’ve never once made table reservations in all of my visits to Oktoberfest.

Yes, especially on a weekend, that sometimes means taking a couple of laps around the tent before finding a free spot at a table—but since you’re allowed to walk with your beer, it never really bothered me too much.

That said, if you’re a type A planner who wants to lock in exactly where you’ll be and when, you can make Oktoberfest tent reservations through the official tent websites. I’d recommend booking as soon as they open up, typically sometime in the spring.

Keep in mind that reservations often come with minimum purchases—usually two pints of beer and half a roast chicken per person. But like I said earlier, if you’re okay with doing a few laps, you can probably get away without a reservation at all.

My friend Akum and me at Oktoberfest 2023 in Munich, smiling and holding large steins of beer while seated inside the Löwenbräu tent. We’re dressed in dirndls, with festive yellow and white decorations and a lively beer hall atmosphere in the background.
 My friends Gabby and Rosie at Oktoberfest 2023 in Munich, standing on benches inside a festive beer tent with steins of beer raised high. Both are wearing colorful dirndls and floral crowns, with Rosie sporting a pretzel-shaped purse, as they celebrate in the lively atmosphere under yellow-striped canopies.

What to Expect at Oktoberfest

Long story short—expect the best time of your life.

I’ve literally never had more fun anywhere than I have inside an Oktoberfest beer tent. The music, the people, the beer, and yes—the overpriced but still delicious food—everything is designed to put you in the best mood possible.

There are no jerks at Oktoberfest. Everyone is in a fantastic mood, friendly, and looking to chat, sing, dance, drink, and make new friends. The vibe is just unbeatable—it’s truly the best in the world.

Sure, there are some practical things to keep in mind, like cash, tipping, and reservations, and we’ll cover all of that later in this post. But at the end of the day, it’s pretty much guaranteed you’ll have the time of your life.

The band performing inside the Löwenbräu tent at Oktoberfest in Munich, with musicians in traditional attire playing brass instruments on a wooden bandstand.

Types of Beer Served at Oktoberfest

What’s this guide to Oktoberfest in Munich without an official beer breakdown?

There are six main Oktoberfest beers: Augustiner, Löwenbräu, Hacker-Pschorr, Hofbräu, Paulaner, and Spaten. Only beers from these Munich breweries are allowed to be served at the Wiesn.

All of these beers are brewed in accordance with the German Purity Law (Reinheitsgebot), a law dating back to 1516 that dictates the only ingredients allowed in brewing German beer are water, barley, and hops.

If beer’s not your thing, don’t worry—you’ve got options! Every tent serves something called a Radler, which is half beer, half lemonade, and much sweeter than a traditional Oktoberfest beer.

There’s also the famous Weinzelt (Wine Tent), the only tent at Oktoberfest that focuses on wine instead of beer. A few of the other large tents, like Marstall, Käfer, and Armbrustschützenzelt, also offer wine alongside their beer selection.

My friend Sammi and me at Frühlingsfest 2019 in Munich, smiling and holding large steins of beer while dressed in colorful dirndls. We’re sitting on orange picnic tables with a Ferris wheel and festive decorations in the background.
My friend Alysia at Oktoberfest 2023 in Munich, sipping from a large stein of beer while seated inside the Löwenbräu tent. She’s wearing a pale pink floral dirndl, with festive yellow and white canopies and the busy Mathäserbox section visible in the background.

4. Costs to Expect at Oktoberfest

I’ll be honest with you—Oktoberfest is not the cheapest trip in the world.

If you’re wondering how to do Oktoberfest in Munich on a budget, it’s important to know that Munich itself isn’t an especially pricey city, but Oktoberfest is when costs climb.

With tourists coming from all over the globe for the festival, flights, accommodation, and pretty much everything else get more expensive than usual. Planning ahead is key if you want to avoid breaking the bank.

Planning & Preparation Costs

  • Flights: From the USA, round-trip fares generally range anywhere from $600 to well over $1,000, depending on where you’re flying from and when you book. I recommend searching Skyscanner for the best deals.
  • Accommodation: During Oktoberfest, expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $200 per night for a bed in a hostel dorm. Mid-range hotels typically run between $200 and $600 per night, depending on their location and rating. (More on accommodation later.)
  • Travel Insurance: Coverage can range from around $16 to $100, depending on the length of your stay and your age. I recommend using SafetyWing.
  • eSIM / Data Plan: An Airalo eSIM through Hallo! Mobil costs between $4.50 and $23, depending on how much data you need for your trip. Use code MADI10 for 10% off!
Me at Oktoberfest in Munich, wearing a floral dirndl with a purple apron and sunglasses, standing in front of a colorful swing ride.

Costs on the Ground

  • Dirndls and Lederhosen: You can grab a super basic dirndl at the train station for around €50, a decent quality one for about €90-150, or go all-out with a custom dirndl for €1,000+. A solid pair of lederhosen will run you around €150, though you can find cheaper pairs at the train station starting around €80.
  • Beer: A liter of beer at Oktoberfest will set you back about €13 to €15. If you’re anything like me, that adds up fast!
  • Tips: Tipping is expected in the tents. It’s standard to tip at least €1-2 per beer. Always take care of your server—not only because they work their asses off, but because you want them to come back!
  • Food: The food in Munich is fantastic, and you’ll find tons of great restaurants serving traditional Bavarian dishes at reasonable prices (€11-25) in the city. The tents also have tasty food, but it’s definitely pricier—I’ve literally paid €7 for a pretzel because I was starving. Expect main dishes in tents to run €18 to €35+.
  • Public Transportation: A single U-Bahn ticket costs around €3.90, or you can grab a day pass for about €9.20+, depending on where you need to go.
  • Souvenirs: T-shirts, steins, cookies, and other Oktoberfest merch can range from €5 to €50+.
  • Rides and Attractions: If you hit the fairground rides, expect to pay €3 to €12 per ride.

Psst 🤫 Looking for an iconic European party that’s a bit more budget-friendly? Head to the Bran Castle Halloween Party in Transylvania!

My friend Gabby and me at Oktoberfest 2023 in Munich, smiling and holding up large steins of beer at an outdoor beer garden area.

5. Oktoberfest Etiquette

No Oktoberfest guide would be complete without a few tips on etiquette. Oktoberfest is one of the most fun, friendly festivals in the world—but like anywhere, there are some unspoken rules that will help you fit in and make the most of your experience.

Always Tip your Barmaid

The barmaids at Oktoberfest are two things: crazy strong and definitely overworked. Chances are, they’ve got a huge section with tons of tables—all needing a beer right now.

If you want your barmaid to prioritize your table and keep the fresh, frosty beers coming, make sure to tip her a couple euros per drink every time she stops by.

What to Wear (and How to Wear it)

If you’ve done any research on Oktoberfest, chances are you’ve seen the super fun Bavarian outfits that pretty much everyone wears at the festival.

Women typically wear a dress called a dirndl, complete with a little apron. Men usually go for lederhosen, which are leather shorts with suspenders.

If you didn’t know, there’s actually a specific way to tie the dirndl apron bow, depending on your relationship status:

  • Tied on the right = in a relationship
  • Tied on the left = single
  • Tied in the middle = a virgin
  • Tied in the back = a widow, child, or waitress

There’s no need to purchase these outfits ahead of time. There are shops all over Munich selling dirndls and lederhosen, and it’s honestly easier (and more fun) to buy them on the ground. At the end of the day, they make the perfect souvenir straight from Munich!

My favorite dirndl shop is actually near the Hauptbahnhof train station (Munich’s Central Station)—it’s called Paris.

Full disclosure: the people who run it can be a bit rude, but they have a great selection and competitive prices. I take all my friends there when they need Oktoberfest outfits, and it’s where I’ve gotten all three of my dirndls over the years.

My friend Kiki and me at Oktoberfest 2018 in Munich, both smiling and dressed in colorful dirndls inside a packed beer tent. Kiki is laughing with her arm around me, and the festive ceiling is decorated with hanging greenery and ribbons.
My friend Max and me at the Hippodrom tent during Frühlingsfest 2019 in Munich, smiling and holding steins of beer. I’m wearing a red gingham dirndl with a navy apron, and Max is in lederhosen and a green checkered shirt, with the tent’s colorful striped canopy and red Bavarian tablecloths in the background.

Key Dos and Don’ts

  • Do get the outfit: It’s all part of the fun! Almost everyone at the festival is wearing a dirndl or lederhosen, so don’t be the boring person who skips the costume.
  • Do wear comfortable shoes: You’ll be on your feet a lot more than you think. Any kind of cute heels? Trust me—you’ll regret them. Most girls just wear white sneakers with their dirndls, and they look plenty cute.
  • Do stay hydrated: You’ll be drinking beer all day long, so make sure you’re also drinking water and eating throughout the day.
  • Do get your dance on: Everyone stands on the benches (and sometimes tables) to dance. Just make sure your balance is solid—falls can and do happen.
  • Do shout “Prost” and make eye contact when you toast: The Germans are very superstitious and believe that toasting without eye contact = 7 years of bad sex 🙊.
  • Do get travel insurance: I literally had to get 11 stitches at Oktoberfest in 2019. Things happen—especially at a massive drinking festival—so be prepared.
  • Don’t steal a stein: Security guards are always on the lookout for people trying to sneak steins out of the tents, and you can get hit with a hefty fine if you’re caught.
  • Don’t hit anyone over the head with a stein: In Germany, that’s considered attempted murder, and you will go to jail.
  • Don’t forget to tip your barmaid: We covered this already, but it’s worth repeating.
  • Don’t forget to bring cash: Some tents are starting to take cards, especially for large orders, but it’s always better to have some cash handy—especially for tips.
Our girls group “prosting” with large steins of beer at Oktoberfest 2023 in Munich, seated at an outdoor beer garden table. Everyone is smiling and raising their glasses for a cheers, with a festive crowd and wooden tables in the background.

6. Eating at Oktoberfest

I’m a huge foodie at heart, so this section is one I’m most excited about! German food isn’t always ranked among the best cuisines in the world (although neither is Romanian food and Portuguese food, and I loved those)—but honestly, I think it should be.

I find it delicious, and I love visiting Germany and eating my heart out every time I go!

When it comes to things to do at Oktoberfest, one of the best is simply enjoying all the incredible food. Here’s what you need to know about German food—both at the festival and around Munich.

Where to Eat on the Festival Grounds

In addition to serving food inside the tents, Oktoberfest has tons of festival food stands all around Theresienwiese, where you can grab delicious Bavarian dishes to help soak up the copious amounts of beer in your stomach.

Below, I’ve pictured a few of my favorites:

  • On the left is a Käsekrainer (German for “cheese weenie”)—a sausage stuffed to the brim with cheese that melts out all over when you take a bite. It’s truly unforgettable.
  • In the middle is my all-time favorite German dish: Spätzle, which I like to affectionately call German mac and cheese.
  • On the right are some chocolate-covered strawberries, perfect if you’re craving something sweet at the festival.

There are plenty of other dishes served around Oktoberfest, including some international options like pizza—but I highly recommend going for the Bavarian cuisine while you’re there.

We’ll go through some of these Bavarian dishes you need to try in the next section!

A Käsekrainer sausage, also known as a cheese weenie, served in a crispy bread roll and held up in a paper wrapper at Oktoberfest in Munich. The grilled sausage is stuffed with melted cheese that oozes out when bitten into.
A serving of cheesy Spätzle from the festival at Oktoberfest in Munich, topped with crispy fried onions.
A skewer of chocolate-covered strawberries held up at Oktoberfest in Munich, with the festival grounds and colorful carnival booths in the background.

Must-Try Bavarian Dishes

Here are some Bavarian dishes I highly recommend trying while you’re at Oktoberfest (and around Munich):

  • Spätzle: We talked about this above, but it’s worth repeating! This cheesy noodle dish is basically German mac and cheese, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
  • Schweinebraten mit Knödeln: Roasted pork with potato dumplings. This is one of my absolute favorite dishes in Germany—tender, flavorful pork paired with hearty dumplings and rich gravy.
  • Obatzda: A creamy, flavorful beer cheese dip, typically served with soft pretzels. It’s the perfect starter to share at a tent.
  • Schweinshaxe: A crispy, juicy pork knuckle, often served with sauerkraut or potato dumplings. My friends always give me shit for being obsessed with this but I can’t help it—it’s crispy and delicious.
  • Currywurst mit Pommes: Sliced sausage smothered in a tangy curry ketchup sauce, served with fries. It’s a fun street food dish that’s easy to grab on the go.
  • Schnitzel: A breaded and fried cutlet (usually pork or veal) that’s simple, crispy, and delicious.

Lucky for you, I’ve probably spent close to two months in Munich (collectively across my trips), so I know all of the best restaurants to try these delicious Bavarian delicacies in the city.

A fresh pretzel filled with cream cheese and sprinkled with chives, served in a paper bag at Munich Central Station. The golden-brown pretzel is topped with coarse salt, making for a tasty and classic Bavarian snack.

7. Rides and Attractions

Oktoberfest isn’t just about the beer—there’s also a huge variety of rides and attractions to check out. You’ll find classics like the Ferris wheel, a couple of roller coasters, and unique favorites like the Devil’s Wheel, the Toboggan, Olympia Looping, the Krinoline, and the Skyfall.

My personal favorite is Circus Circus, which is kind of like a Tilt-A-Whirl—tons of fun if you’re into that kind of thing. That said, I don’t really go to Oktoberfest for the rides. I’m usually heading straight for the beer tents.

If you are a carnival ride connoisseur, you’ll love the variety they offer. Just a word of advice: hit the rides before you get super drunk—it’s a recipe for puking from high places if you don’t.

Be sure to bring cash for the ride tickets!

Colorful festival swings at Oktoberfest in Munich, with riders soaring through the air under a bright blue sky.

Oktoberfest for Solo Female Travelers

For all my badass solo travel girlies—I’m sure you’re wondering if going to Oktoberfest is something you can do as a solo female traveler.

I touched on this a bit earlier in the post, but I personally wouldn’t recommend Oktoberfest as a solo trip. However, it is possible if you’re determined and very safety-conscious.

We’ll dive into a couple of must-knows in this section to help you navigate Oktoberfest solo.

Is Oktoberfest Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

It’s not that I think Oktoberfest is any less safe than any other drinking festival around the world…I just don’t personally think it’s the best plan to go to a festival where the number one activity is drinking a lot when you’re traveling alone with no one in your corner to help keep track of you or make sure you’re okay.

That said, if you’re very conscious of the fact that you’re solo and you don’t drink anywhere near as much as you normally would, I do think it’s possible to do Oktoberfest safely. But I would absolutely caution you to stay vigilant.

Here are a few safety must-haves I recommend for solo female travelers:

Be sure to share your location with friends or family back home. One of my friends’ moms even hooked an Apple AirTag onto her before she left for Europe—that way, if she ever lost her phone, her family would still know where she was.

And make sure to EAT even more than you normally would.

My friends Gabby, Rosie, and Akum at Oktoberfest 2023 in Munich, smiling and dressed in colorful dirndls inside a lively beer tent.

Solo Female Travel Tips for Oktoberfest

  • Stay in a hostel: Although it’s easy to make friends at the festival itself, it’s way more fun to make friends beforehand so you can hit the tents together. I highly recommend staying at a hostel, even though the dorm beds are ridiculously priced during Oktoberfest.
  • Follow all the solo female travel safety basics: Be aware of your surroundings, always keep an eye on your drink, have your location services turned on, and set up Emergency SOS on your phone. And don’t forget those safety must-haves I listed above: portable charger, eSIM, hydration packets, etc.
  • Join other tours in Munich: There are a lot of fun things to do in Munich during Oktoberfest that aren’t just beer-related. A bike tour or a day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle are great ways to explore more of the area and meet new people as a solo traveler.
  • Getting back at night: The nice thing about Oktoberfest is that the tents close around 10:00 PM, and the streets are packed with people heading home. If you’re staying in the city center, you can probably walk back to your hostel safely, thanks to the crowds. But it’s smart to have Uber downloaded just in case you want an easier way home—just always check the license plate and make sure you’re getting in the right car.
  • Get cute photos: Just because you’re traveling solo doesn’t mean you can’t get super cute pictures! Download my 6 Steps to Solo Travel Photography guide to score amazing photos in Munich, even without someone else behind the camera.

Frühlingsfest (a.k.a. Springfest)

I can’t write a post about Oktoberfest without mentioning its “little sister”, Frühlingsfest (translating to Spring Festival).

Frühlingsfest is basically a mini Oktoberfest held at the same location—Theresienwiese—and offers a lot of the same fun on a smaller scale. You’ll find way more locals than international visitors, which makes it feel a bit more authentic.

Frühlingsfest usually takes place in late April and wraps up in early May. The weather is typically pretty good (though it can still be chilly, so plan accordingly). There are just two beer tents: the Festhalle Bayernland, which serves Augustiner beer, and the Hippodrom, which serves Spaten beer.

It’s much less crowded than Oktoberfest and generally cheaper when it comes to flights and accommodation. So if you’re worried about being overstimulated at Oktoberfest but still want to experience the magic of a Bavarian beer festival, I highly recommend checking out Frühlingsfest instead.

I’ve done Frühlingsfest twice out of my ten Munich beer festival trips, and both were some of my favorite experiences—same delicious beer, but with more of a local vibe.

Me at the Hippodrom tent during Frühlingsfest in Munich, smiling and holding a stein of beer. I’m wearing a red gingham dirndl with a navy apron, standing among red tables covered in Bavarian-patterned cloths, under the tent’s colorful striped canopy.

Where to Stay for Oktoberfest

Finding accommodation can be one of the trickiest parts of planning a trip to Oktoberfest.

Last time I went in 2023, I actually booked my stay a year in advance since places book up so fast and prices go up as it gets closer. Here are some options for accommodation in Munich, no matter what your budget looks like.

It’s a little hard for me to give you just one hostel I recommend as a budget-conscious traveler since the hostel I used to stay at—Jaeger’s Hostel in the city center—went from being around €90 a night back in 2019 to upwards of €215 a night for a bed in an 8-bed, mixed dorm in 2025. In my opinion, that’s just not budget-friendly anymore.

Below are a couple of hostels I recommend that range from about €80 to €200 per night, where you’ll have an easy time meeting new friends. They’re also located centrally or have easy access to public transit to get you to the festival.

In order from most affordable to most expensive…(2025 prices).

  • a&o München Hackerbrücke: This is your most budget-friendly option that’s still within the city center and easily accessible by public transit. We had students stay here on multiple Oktoberfest trips I managed—and while it’s super affordable (around €83 a night during Oktoberfest), I’ll be honest: we did occasionally run into bed bugs.
  • MEININGER Hotel München Zentrum: I’ve stayed at MEININGER properties across Europe, and they always deliver a reliable, budget-friendly experience. This one is about 2.3 kilometers from the city center and offers a clean, simple stay for solo travelers. During Oktoberfest, dorm beds run around €103 a night.
  • Wombat’s City Hostel Munich Werksviertel: Wombat’s is a great hostel chain—I stayed with them on my solo trip to Budapest, and they’re always clean, well laid out, and a solid choice for solo travelers. This location is a bit farther outside the city, which is why it’s a bit cheaper at around €130 a night for a dorm bed during Oktoberfest.
  • ⭐️ Wombat’s City Hostel Munich Hauptbahnhof: My top pick! It’s a bit cheaper than Jaeger’s at around €160 a night for a dorm bed, and it’s smack dab in the middle of the city, within easy walking distance of the festival grounds.
  • Jaeger’s Hostel: This used to be a great option for solo travelers looking to do Oktoberfest on a budget. But like I mentioned earlier, prices have now skyrocketed to over €200 a night for a dorm bed during the festival. That said, if you’re willing to splurge, it’s still a great hostel with a fun, social bar and a location that’s smack dab in the middle of the city, within easy walking distance of the festival grounds.

If you’re heading to Oktoberfest with a group, I recommend looking at Airbnbs outside the city. In 2023, my group of six stayed at a charming Bavarian house in Starnberg with two huge bedrooms and the kindest hosts, Martina and Rolf. It was about a 45-minute train ride into Munich, but the space and hospitality made it so worth it.

If you’re looking for a super budget-friendly option where you can have the most fun possible, I highly recommend booking with Stoke Travel.

They offer a midweek special for about €65 per night, and during weekends it’s around €80 per night. Your nightly fee includes brunch every morning (8:00–11:00 AM) with unlimited mimosas, a free welcome drink, and tents with camping mats and sleeping bags.

You can also add unlimited beer and sangria for just €15 per day.

I stayed at this campsite many times back in 2018 and 2019, and if you decide to camp, just remember: Munich gets colder in September than you might expect. Pack warm clothes, and be ready for one of the most fun experiences of your life (that you’ll probably never do again).

The campsite is mostly run by Australians—and they are crazy. They have a party wheel at the bar that dares people to things like doing a nudey run around the campsite, chugging a beer out of a shoe (shooey), switching clothes with a Stokie, and a bunch of other hilarious dares perfect for when you’re 20 years-old and tipsy on unlimited sangria.

👉🏼 Book your tent with Stoke Travel for Oktoberfest!

My friend Hanna and me at the Stoke Campsite during Oktoberfest 2019 in Munich. I’m kissing Hanna on the cheek, and we’re both wearing dirndls, standing in front of festival tents with trees and gravel paths around us.
Two of my coworkers during my Bus2alps days, smiling from inside a green tent at the Stoke Campsite during Oktoberfest. They’re bundled up in hoodies, gloves, and socks, peeking out from the tent’s partially unzipped entrance.

If you’re looking to spend a little more on your Oktoberfest accommodation, my mid-range pick is Hotel Augustin. It’s so close to Theresienwiese that there’s a good chance you can see the festival grounds from your window—it’s literally just across the street.

Hotel Augustin offers both private rooms and family-style rooms, which are kind of like a hostel setup except you book the whole room, so you’ll need enough friends to fill it. The hotel is very new (opened in 2019), with an on-site restaurant and bar, and it’s clean, spacious, and super comfortable.

👉🏼 Book your Oktoberfest stay at Hotel Augustin!

A private room at Hotel Augustin in Munich, featuring a neatly made double bed with crisp white linens, a modern woven headboard, and soft lighting from wall-mounted lamps.A private room at Hotel Augustin in Munich, featuring a neatly made double bed with crisp white linens, a modern woven headboard, and soft lighting from wall-mounted lamps.
A clean, modern family-style room at the Hotel Augustin in Munich, featuring white bunk beds with crisp white bedding and a wooden staircase leading to the top bunk.

If you’re looking to splurge, check out DO & CO Hotel München. It’s just steps from Marienplatz, which (in my opinion) is the prettiest part of Munich, right near the Rathskeller with gorgeous views from the hotel balcony.

I’ll definitely be visiting that balcony next time I’m in town—even though I definitely can’t afford to stay there 😂.

It’s a beautiful, upscale property with a fitness center, sun terrace, 24-hour front desk, and even live music. There are two restaurants on-site, room service, a bar, and a wonderful breakfast to lay down a heavy base before you start drinking in the tents.

👉🏼 Book your luxury stay at DO & CO Hotel München!


What is Oktoberfest in Munich?

Oktoberfest is the world’s largest beer festival—a celebration of Bavarian culture that takes place each fall at the Theresienwiese festival grounds in Munich.

How to dress for OKtoberfest in Munich?

Most people wear traditional Bavarian outfits to Oktoberfest—a.k.a. a dirndl for women and lederhosen for men.

What to pack for Oktoberfest?

Make sure to add these must-haves to your Oktoberfest packing list: a portable charger, comfortable shoes, warm layers, and a small but practical bag that fits the essentials without being bulky. I recommend the Calpak sling bag—it’s my favorite for festivals and trips like this.

How much should you tip at Oktoberfest?

Tip at least €1–2 per drink to keep your server happy and the beers flowing.

How many days do you need in Munich for Oktoberfest?

I recommend setting aside at least 2–3 days for the festival itself—but I wouldn’t fly all the way to Germany just to drink and not actually see the city. Plan an extra 2–3 days to explore the best of Munich. There’s so much to do, from day trips to Neuschwanstein Castle and Dachau Concentration Camp (please be respectful—don’t go in your dirndl or lederhosen), to free walking tours and city-wide bike tours.

Is Oktoberfest in Munich cash only?

No, a lot of tents are starting to accept credit cards, but not all of them. It’s smart to come prepared and bring plenty of euros just in case.

Can I just show up to Oktoberfest?

Yes! You don’t need a ticket to enter the grounds or the beer tents, but reservations can be helpful.

How to get tickets to Oktoberfest in Munich?

You don’t need a ticket to go to Oktoberfest—but you can book table reservations through the official tent websites.

Inside the Löwenbräu tent at Oktoberfest in Munich, packed with people enjoying steins of beer at long wooden tables. The tent features a bright yellow striped canopy, festive lights, and decorations with the Löwenbräu logo and the phrase “Ein Bier wie Bayern” across the balcony. If you're wondering how to do Oktoberfest in Munich, go to this tent!

Beyond Oktoberfest: Your Next Steps in Munich

By now, you should have a solid idea of how to do Oktoberfest in Munich—from navigating the tents and choosing your outfit to staying safe and having the time of your life.

I hope this guide helps you feel confident planning your trip and making the most of this unforgettable festival in Munich! I’ve truly never had more fun in my life than inside an Oktoberfest beer tent.

I could stay there all day and never feel the need to leave—the vibes are immaculate, the beer is delicious, and it’s just a 10/10 experience. I’m planning to go back in 2026 (I wish I could make it happen this year, but it’s not in the cards).

But don’t fly all the way to Munich and only go to Oktoberfest! Be sure to soak up some of the city’s rich history and culture before you head back home.

Below, you’ll find helpful guides to Munich—from where to find the best Bavarian food to how to plan the ultimate first-timer’s itinerary. Munich is a fantastic city to visit solo—just be smart about how you handle the festival if you’re doing that part on your own.

There’s so much more to experience here, and I hope this post helped you start planning the trip of a lifetime.

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