Ale yeah, it’s time to prost like a pro! If you’ve ever dreamed of clinking steins, belting out Bavarian tunes, and soaking in the lederhosen-clad magic of Munich and Oktoberfest, this guide is your golden ticket. The Theresienwiese fairgrounds are pure chaos — the best kind — filled with the sound of oompah bands, the scent of freshly baked pretzels, and the occasional rookie who clearly didn’t read the tips below. Whether it’s your first fest or your fifth, these five insider tricks will help you travel like a seasoned stein-raiser and avoid every “tourist trapped in a beer tent” cliché. Cheers to doing Munich and Oktoberfest right.
What is Oktoberfest?
Munich and Oktoberfest is not just a beer festival — it’s Munich’s ultimate party that’s been perfected over two centuries. Every fall, more than six million visitors flock to Munich and Oktoberfest to raise a stein (or two), sing shoulder-to-shoulder with strangers, and live their best Bavarian life. But here’s what most tourists don’t realize: this world-famous celebration didn’t start as a beer bash.
Back in 1810, Bavaria’s Crown Prince Ludwig married Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen, and the people of Munich were invited to join in the royal wedding festivities — complete with feasting, dancing, and horse races on the city’s outskirts. The party was such a hit, they basically said, “Let’s do it again next year!” And just like that, Oktoberfest was born.
Fast-forward 200 years, and those same fields — now known as Theresienwiese (“Therese’s Meadow”) — are still home to the world’s largest folk festival. Think of it as a mix of royal tradition, local pride, and modern-day mayhem — all wrapped in Bavarian charm. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, one thing’s for sure: Munich and Oktoberfest are best enjoyed when you know how to do them right. And that’s where our insider tips come in — so you can prost like a pro, not panic like a tourist.
1. Munich and Oktoberfest Tip: Reserve Tables Early — Like, Really Early
If there’s one piece of advice to take seriously about Munich and Oktoberfest, it’s this: book your beer tent reservations early. The most popular tents — like Hofbräu, Schottenhamel, and Käfer’s Wiesn-Schänke — can fill up months in advance. Each tent offers a slightly different vibe:
- Hofbräu-Festzelt is iconic, known for its lively international crowd.
- Augustiner-Festhalle draws locals and traditionalists who love their beer served from wooden barrels.
- Schottenhamel-Festhalle is where the official keg-tapping ceremony takes place.
- Marstall Festzelt: mixture of Bavarian coziness and exuberant atmosphere and a Chamapgne bar; this was our tent
If you don’t manage to get a Munich and Oktoberfest reservation, don’t panic. You can still find space in the outdoor beer gardens attached to most tents — but go early (before noon) to snag a table. Most reservations come with meal and drink vouchers, which you’ll pay for in advance. Think of it as pre-paying for your Bavarian feast of roast chicken, potato dumplings, and liters of beer.
Booking Munich and Oktoberfest directly through each tent’s website is the safest route. Be wary of third-party resellers — unless they’re verified partners — since Munich and Oktoberfest scams do pop up each year. And don’t forget: reservations typically open in January or February, so set that calendar reminder! If you’re planning a trip to Munich and Oktoberfest in September, start organizing in January to lock in your preferred tents and times.
2. Munich and Oktoberfest Tip: Stay Close — Convenience Is Everything
After a full day of bench dancing, belting out “Ein Prosit” with new best friends, and surviving a few too many pretzels, the last thing you’ll want is a long commute back to your hotel. When it comes to Munich and Oktoberfest, proximity isn’t just convenient — it’s essential.
We stayed at 25hours Hotel The Royal Bavarian, and let’s just say it was love at first check-in. Think velvet sofas, eclectic art, and that perfect mix of whimsy and comfort that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a modern Bavarian fairytale. Best part? It’s right by Munich’s central train station (Hauptbahnhof) and just a short walk to Theresienwiese — ideal for a quick outfit change or a much-needed disco nap before round two.
A few other gems worth booking:
- Marc München – Sleek and modern, a five-minute walk from the festival.
- Cocoon Hauptbahnhof – Budget-friendly with a retro mountain-lodge theme.
- Hotel Excelsior by Geisel – Elegant option for travelers looking for a more luxurious stay.
Munich’s public transport is great — until you’re packed in with hundreds of tipsy festivalgoers at midnight. So do yourself a favor and stay within walking distance of Theresienwiese. Your feet (and your hangover) will thank you.
Bonus: Being close to the city center also means you can squeeze in a little sightseeing before or after Oktoberfest. From Marienplatz and Viktualienmarkt to the English Garden, you’ll have the best of Munich right at your doorstep — no U-Bahn drama required.
3. Munich and Oktoberfest Tip: Dress the Part — Embrace the Bavarian Spirit
If there’s one thing you can’t half-commit to at Munich and Oktoberfest, it’s the look. The festival isn’t just about beer — it’s a full-on fashion moment. From the moment you step onto the Theresienwiese fairgrounds, you’ll be surrounded by a swirl of twirling dirndls, polished lederhosen, and accessories so cute they deserve their own Instagram carousel. Trust us — slipping into traditional Bavarian attire instantly transforms you from “tourist with a stein” to “main character of the beer tent.”
For women:
The iconic dirndl is more than just a dress — it’s a statement. This flattering three-piece ensemble includes a bodice, blouse, and apron, often made from cotton, silk, or velvet. And yes, the apron bow means something:
- Left side: Single
- Right side: Taken
- Center: It’s complicated (or you’re a waitress!)
For men:
Lederhosen (leather shorts with suspenders) are the classic look, typically paired with a checkered shirt and long socks.
You can find authentic Oktoberfest outfits both online and in Munich itself. Here are a few trusted spots to shop before your trip:
Online:
- Lodenfrey – High-quality, traditional Bavarian clothing.
- Alpenclassics – Great selection of dirndls, lederhosen, and accessories.
- Amazon Germany – Fast shipping and affordable starter sets.
In Munich:
- Lodenfrey – High-quality, traditional Bavarian clothing; it’s like a Saks or Neiman. Expensive, but fun to window shop
- Angermaier – Iconic local brand with a wide range of styles.
- Ludwig & Therese – Chic, fashion-forward take on Oktoberfest outfits.
- C&A – Budget-friendly options if you want something cute and practical.
Don’t forget to accessorize! For women, floral crowns, delicate jewelry, and cute crossbody bags are perfect finishing touches. For men, add a felt hat or a rustic belt for extra flair.
And here’s a pro tip: break in your shoes before the trip. Between the dancing, walking, and carnival rides, Oktoberfest in Munich is not the place for uncomfortable footwear.
4. Munich and Oktoberfest Tip: Go Early and Explore the Rides and Booths — It’s a Carnival!
Think Oktoberfest and Munich are all about the beer tents? Think again. Sure, the steins get all the spotlight, but the real secret is that this festival doubles as one of the largest traveling carnivals in the world. Between the adrenaline-pumping rides, neon-lit games, and rows of irresistible snack stalls, Oktoberfest is basically Bavaria’s answer to Disneyland — just with a lot more beer.
Arrive early (around 9:00 a.m.) to explore before the crowds roll in — the first beers start flowing by 10:00 a.m., but the fun starts well before that. Here’s how to make the most of your morning:
- Ride the Ferris wheel for sweeping views of Munich’s skyline — it’s the perfect spot for a “Prost from above” selfie.
- Brave the Toboggan slide (or at least watch from below). The moving ramp that launches you to the top is pure comedy gold.
- Play the shooting booths and win yourself a plush souvenir — bonus points if it matches your dirndl or lederhosen.
- Snack your way through the food stalls — roasted almonds, currywurst, and giant pretzels are non-negotiables.
If you’re visiting with kids or just want a breather from the buzz, Tuesdays are officially Family Days, when rides and food are discounted and the energy is more “day at the fair” than “late-night sing-along.”
Pro tip: plan to explore first, then settle into your beer tent reservation later in the afternoon — you’ll skip the longest lines and see the festival in full swing.
And for those who crave a little nostalgia, wander over to the Oide Wiesn (Old Oktoberfest). This charming corner of the fairgrounds is pure time-travel magic — vintage rides, folk music, and dancers in traditional Bavarian attire bring the 1800s back to life.
Because when it comes to Oktoberfest and Munich, it’s not just about what’s in your stein — it’s the laughter echoing through the rides, the scent of roasted nuts in the air, and the pure joy that makes the world’s most famous festival a carnival of Bavarian spirit.oth, every ride, every bite of schnitzel tells a story of Bavarian pride and community spirit.
5. Munich and Oktoberfest Tip: Stay Connected with an eSIM — Skip the Roaming Fees
Between posting photos of your first stein, finding your friends in the massive tents, and navigating Munich’s trams, staying connected is essential during Oktoberfest. But if you’re visiting from abroad, roaming fees can add up quickly. There is free Wifi at the entrance, but that’s it.
That’s why we recommend using an eSIM. Unlike a physical SIM card, an eSIM lets you activate data instantly on your phone — no need to swap cards or visit a local store.
We used Jetpac Global during our trip to Munich and Oktoberfest, and it was a total game-changer. As soon as we landed, we had instant access to data, maps, and WhatsApp. No hidden fees, no setup headaches — just seamless connectivity from the start.
Here’s why an eSIM is a must-have for Oktoberfest travelers:
- Instant activation: Download a plan before you fly and connect right when you land.
- Affordable rates: Most plans are cheaper than international roaming.
- No lost SIMs: Keep your original number active for calls and texts.
- Flexible coverage: Works not just in Germany, but across Europe.
Pro tip: download Google Maps offline for Munich, just in case you lose signal in the crowded tents (yes, it happens). Also, save your hotel’s address and any emergency contacts in your phone before you head out.
With an eSIM, you can easily share your location with friends, upload photos in real-time, and navigate the city without worrying about data limits. It’s one of those small details that makes your Munich and Oktoberfest experience infinitely smoother.
Bonus: Explore Beyond the Beer Tents
While Munich and Oktoberfest is the star attraction, Munich itself deserves a spotlight. Plan a few extra days before or after the festival to enjoy this charming Bavarian capital.
Here are a few must-see spots:
- Marienplatz: The central square where you can watch the Glockenspiel chime from the New Town Hall tower.
- Viktualienmarkt: A vibrant open-air market filled with local produce, cheese, and sausages.
- English Garden: One of Europe’s largest urban parks — perfect for a scenic stroll or a relaxed beer garden afternoon.
- Nymphenburg Palace: A stunning baroque palace that offers a glimpse into Munich’s royal history.
- BMW Museum: For car lovers, a futuristic celebration of German engineering.
Munich and Oktoberfest perfectly blend history, culture, and pure celebration — a festival where strangers become friends over pretzels and beer, and laughter fills every tent. Between the cobblestone streets, brass bands, and beer halls, the city’s infectious spirit makes every moment feel like a toast to life. So grab your stein, shout “Prost!”, and get ready to fall in love with Munich and Oktoberfest — a celebration that’s not just iconic, but truly unforgettable. If you can’t make it to Munich, there’s always Oktoberfest celebrations in NYC too.
