Experiences
Oktoberfest in Munich: tents, traditions and hotels near the party
Beer tents on the Theresienwiese, litre steins and dirndls, and a city that fills up for two weeks. How to plan Oktoberfest, and where to stay in Munich.
It is noon, and for a moment the tent goes completely quiet. Then the mayor hammers the tap into the first barrel, shouts "O'zapft is!" and thousands of people cheer. The band strikes up and the litre steins start to flow.
Oktoberfest is the largest folk festival in the world, and it has been held in Munich since 1810. It runs for just over two weeks and ends in early October. Here is how to plan, and where to stay.
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How Oktoberfest works
The festival takes place on the Theresienwiese, a large open area close to the centre. Entry is free, and you pay for food, drink and rides.
The tents: the big beer tents are run by Munich's breweries. Table reservations often need booking far in advance.
Without a reservation: arrive early on a weekday. Parts of the tents are kept open for people without a table.
Cash: bring cash, although more places now take cards.
Book the experience: See tours and activities in Munich
The traditions
Oktoberfest is about more than beer.
The opening
On the first Saturday there is a parade through the city, and at noon the mayor taps the first barrel in one of the tents.
Dirndl and lederhosen
Many visitors wear traditional dress. You can buy or hire it in the city.
The food
Roast chicken, pretzels and sausages are part of it. Try Steckerlfisch too, fish grilled on a stick.
More to do in Munich
Viktualienmarkt: a food market in the centre with a beer garden.
Englischer Garten: a huge park with beer gardens and surfers riding a standing wave in the river.
Marienplatz: the main square with the town hall and its glockenspiel.
Where to stay in Munich
Hotels fill up quickly and get expensive during Oktoberfest. Book as early as you can.
Hotel Bayerischer Hof
The Bayerischer Hof is in the centre, with a roof terrace, a spa and several restaurants. A Munich classic.
Book your stay: See rooms at Hotel Bayerischer Hof
Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski München
On Maximilianstraße.
Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski München
The Vier Jahreszeiten is on Maximilianstraße, with an indoor pool and elegant rooms. A short walk to both the centre and the Englischer Garten.
Book your stay: See rooms at Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski München
Louis Hotel
By the Viktualienmarkt.
Louis Hotel
Louis Hotel overlooks the Viktualienmarkt, with modern rooms and a restaurant. Handy for the centre and the festival grounds.
Book your stay: See rooms at Louis Hotel
When is Oktoberfest?
Start: a Saturday in the second half of September.
End: the first Sunday in October, or 3 October if that falls later.
Tip: weekdays early in the day are the calmest.
Oktoberfest FAQ
When is Oktoberfest?
From a Saturday in the second half of September to the first Sunday in October.
Is there an entry fee?
No, entry is free.
Do I need to reserve a table?
Not necessarily, but a reservation makes things easier, especially in the evening and at weekends.
What should I wear?
Many people wear dirndl and lederhosen, but it is not required.
When should I book a hotel?
As early as possible. Munich hotels fill up fast.