The Oktoberfest Munich travel guide you’re reading is designed to help you plan the ultimate 2025 trip to the world’s largest beer festival. From September 20 to October 5, 2025, Munich’s Theresienwiese will transform into a buzzing paradise of Bavarian beer tents, music, parades, and delicious food. Whether you’re looking for Oktoberfest Munich tips, the best beer tents, advice on what to wear, or even how to explore more of Bavaria after the festival, this guide has you covered.
Oktoberfest Munich 2025 Dates & Location
Oktoberfest lasts for 16–18 days each year, starting in late September. In 2025, the festival runs from Saturday, September 20 until Sunday, October 5.
It’s held at the Theresienwiese in central Munich.
For official announcements, check the Oktoberfest Munich official website.
📍 Where is Oktoberfest Held?
Oktoberfest takes place at the Theresienwiese in central Munich. The grounds are massive, with large beer tents, carnival rides, food stalls, and cultural attractions. It’s easy to reach by U-Bahn (underground metro) — just take the U4 or U5 line to Theresienwiese station.
If you’re traveling from nearby cities, check out our guide to the Bayern Ticket Germany to save money.”
“Extend your Bavarian adventure by visiting Neuschwanstein Castle from Munich — a fairytale escape after Oktoberfest.
🍺 Best Beer Tents at Oktoberfest Munich
There are 17 large tents and over 20 smaller ones, each with a unique atmosphere:
- Hofbräu Festzelt – One of the most famous, popular with international visitors.
- Augustiner Festhalle – Serves beer from wooden barrels, family-friendly vibe.
- Schottenhamel – Where the first keg is tapped; attracts a younger crowd.
- Löwenbräu Festzelt – Recognizable by its giant lion at the entrance.
- Hacker-Pschorr Festzelt – Beautifully decorated ceiling, “heaven of Bavaria” theme.
- Käfer’s Wies’n-Schänke – Smaller and more exclusive, frequented by celebrities.
💡 Tip: No reservation? Arrive before 3 pm on weekdays or 11 am on weekends for the best chance at getting a table.
🥨 What to Eat at Oktoberfest
- Weißwurst (white sausage) – Traditionally eaten before noon.
- Brezn (giant pretzels) – The perfect beer companion.
- Hendl (roast chicken) – Juicy and flavorful.
- Schweinshaxe (pork knuckle) – A Bavarian classic.
💡 Pair your food with a Maß (1-liter beer mug) of local brew.
👗 What to Wear
Traditional clothing adds to the Oktoberfest experience:
- Men: Lederhosen, checkered shirt, Haferlschuhe shoes.
- Women: Dirndl dress, blouse, and apron (apron bow placement matters — right side if taken, left if single!).
If you don’t have your own, you can rent or buy affordable outfits from local shops.
🚆 How to Get to Oktoberfest
- From within Munich: Use the U-Bahn, trams, or walk if you’re nearby.
- From other cities: The Bayern Ticket is the cheapest way to travel by train from cities like Nuremberg, Regensburg, or Augsburg.
- From abroad: Munich Airport has direct flights from all over Europe and beyond.
🛏️ Where to Stay for Oktoberfest
Accommodation prices during Oktoberfest are higher than usual, so book early.
- Budget: Hostels like Wombat’s City Hostel Munich.(Not sponsored)
- Mid-range: Boutique hotels near the city center.
- Luxury: Hotel Bayerischer Hof.
Oktoberfest Munich Travel Guide – Costs & Budget Tips
- Beer: €13–€15 per Maß
- Food: €8–€20 per meal
- Accommodation: €50–€400 per night depending on location and type
💡 Entrance to Oktoberfest is free — you only pay for food, drinks, and rides.
🎡 Other Things to Do in Munich During Oktoberfest
- Visit Marienplatz and watch the Glockenspiel show.
- Take a day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle.
- Explore the English Garden for a relaxing picnic.
- BMW Museum – Perfect for car enthusiasts.
🛡️ Oktoberfest Safety & Etiquette Tips
- Pace yourself — beer is stronger than you think.
- Keep valuables close; use a money belt or secure bag.
- Learn basic German phrases — locals appreciate the effort.
- Respect seating rules inside beer tents.
🏁 Final Tips for Oktoberfest
- Book your accommodation early — ideally 3-4 months ahead.
- Arrive at tents early to get a good spot.
- Pace yourself with the beer — it’s stronger than you think!
For those with extra time in Bavaria, check out our guide to the Most Beautiful Villages in Bavaria — a must-read if you enjoyed this Oktoberfest Munich travel guide and want to explore more of southern Germany.