Your Guide to Experiencing Oktoberfest in Munich — and Beyond

Ellie Friese
Nov 1
4 min read

Have you ever dreamed of attending Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany? It’s one of those bucket list events that everyone should experience at least once — whether it’s to celebrate a graduation, a milestone birthday, or just because it’s time to finally get that “group chat trip” out of the chat and into the world.

Despite the name, Oktoberfest actually begins in late September and runs through the first weekend of October. The tradition dates back to 1810, when Crown Prince Ludwig married Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen — and the city of Munich celebrated with beer, dancing, and festivities on what’s now known as Theresienwiese.

Over 200 years later, it’s evolved into one of the world’s largest and most joyful festivals — a vibrant mix of Bavarian culture, live music, traditional dress, and, of course, world-class beer.

What to Expect at Oktoberfest

When you step into Oktoberfest, you’re stepping into a massive fairground filled with over a dozen large beer tents, carnival rides, food stalls, and music spilling from every direction.

Each tent has its own atmosphere — from rowdy and boisterous to cozy and traditional — and it’s common to meet locals ready to toast with strangers-turned-friends.

Entry to the festival is free, but if you want a guaranteed seat at one of the big-name tents (like Hofbräu or Schottenhamel), reservations are essential — and should be made 6–9 months in advance. Most include beer, food, and service, and are worth every euro for the experience.

💡 Travel Advisor Tip: Don’t have a reservation? No problem! Arrive early (especially midweek), and you’ll often find open seating in the smaller tents. Some of the most memorable moments happen when you wander spontaneously — beer stein in hand, music in the air.

What to Wear

Dressing up isn’t just part of the fun — it’s a show of respect for the local culture.

Ladies: Dirndls come in every color imaginable, often with aprons and embroidered blouses.
Men: Lederhosen with suspenders and checkered shirts are the classic look.

You can rent outfits locally in Munich or purchase them ahead of time if you plan to make Oktoberfest a recurring event (many travelers do!).

Sample Itinerary: Oktoberfest + Bavarian Adventure

Day 1 — Arrive in Munich

Settle into your hotel and recover from your flight. Take a relaxed evening stroll through Marienplatz or the English Garden before your first Bavarian meal — think pretzels, sausages, and a crisp local lager.

Day 2 — Explore Munich

Spend the morning at leisure, then take a walking and tasting tour of Munich’s highlights in the afternoon. Visit Viktualienmarkt, enjoy local bites, and learn about the city’s history before the big festival day ahead.

Day 3 — Oktoberfest Day!

This is it! With table reservations under the Hofbräu tent, you’ll have a front-row seat to the fun — live oompah bands, flowing steins, dancing on benches, and plenty of hearty Bavarian fare. Spend the full day soaking up the atmosphere (and maybe practicing your “Prost!”).

Day 4 — Roadtrip to the Alpes

Pick up your rental car and head south toward the mountains. The drive alone is breathtaking — rolling hills, church spires, and alpine peaks appearing in the distance.

Day 5 — Fairytale Castles & Alpine Coaster

Visit Neuschwanstein Castle, the storybook inspiration for Disney’s Sleeping Beauty, and Linderhof Palace. For thrill-seekers, don’t miss a ride on the Alpine Coaster — a scenic adventure through the mountains. End your day with a beer garden dinner.

Day 6 — Hiking and Local Charm

Take a gondola up the mountain for incredible views and a pastry at the summit café. Then spend the evening in Oberammergau, famous for its wood carving and cuckoo clocks.

Day 7 — Departure

Return home with a full heart (and maybe a souvenir stein or two).

Planning Tips from Your Travel Advisor

A few practical notes before you go:

Book early: Oktoberfest accommodations and reservations sell out months in advance. If booking at a 5* level, plan 10-12 months ahead of time. After that, we start to see rates go up and availability declines quickly for hotels and tent reservations.
Timing: The first weekend is lively and traditional, while weekdays offer easier access to tents.
Getting around: Munich’s public transport is excellent — trams, trains, and U-Bahn all connect seamlessly.
Combining destinations: While I will always recommend exploring more of Bavaria, you can also extend your trip to include Salzburg, Vienna, or Lake Como — all within easy reach by train or car.

💡 Pro Tip: Oktoberfest isn’t just for beer lovers — it’s a celebration of community, culture, and joy. Whether you come for the music, the atmosphere, or the adventure, it’s an experience you’ll never forget.

Beyond Beer: Why We Love Bavaria

While Munich steals the spotlight, Bavaria’s charm lies in its balance — energetic cities, serene countryside, and a rhythm of life that invites you to slow down. Between the cozy chalets, alpine lakes, and charming villages, it’s a region that keeps travelers coming back again and again.

If you’re dreaming of experiencing Oktoberfest or exploring the Bavarian Alps, Ellie’s Travel Bug can help you design a trip that’s seamless, memorable, and tailored to your travel style — from beer tent reservations to spa-day recommendations.