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Planning for your Oktoberfest trip in Munich includes details on traveling, dressing, the days to choose, hotels to book, and other similar things.
Attracting around 7 million people annually, it's considered one of the biggest festivals in the world. To be a part of such a huge crowd, you may not get the most out of your visit due to a lack of planning. To prevent issues and confusion, planning your trip to this beer festival is vital from start to end. This is what the guide is about.
Traveling to Oktoberfest: Checklist and Tips on Preparing for the Festival
You may be visiting the event from another land or just a few miles away from the Oktoberfest location. No matter where you are from, planning ahead is always better than regretting later. Here are all the essential things summarized to enjoy a smooth traveling experience.
How Much Should You Budget for an Oktoberfest Trip?
For foreign visitors, an Oktoberfest trip to Germany can cost around €15,00 - €3,500 per person. The cost can vary based on various factors, such as the duration of the trip, accommodation, buying traditional outfits like Lederhosen or dirndl, transportation, food and drink, and activities. However, the budget range would be very different for Munich residents or students studying here, as they just need to calculate the cost of food, beer, and attractions.
What to Wear at Oktoberfest?
The attendees usually wear traditional Bavarian dress (trachten), including Lederhosen for men and dirndls for women. These German costumes offer an authentic look; however, there is no strict dress code. You can wear anything you want as per your comfort and style preferences, but it is always a good idea to dress traditionally to enjoy the true spirit of Oktoberfest. So, when planning your trip, always buy Lederhosen or dirndls, classic shirts, shoes, sunglasses, Bavarian socks, and other accessories. Also, remember to check theweather forecast and pack your outfits accordingly to stay comfortable throughout the visit.
When is the Best Time to Go to Oktoberfest?
The first and last weeks are the best times to go to Oktoberfest, as many exciting activities happen during these times. The event starts in the second last week of September and ends on the first Sunday of October every year. However, the best time to go depends on the experience you seek. The fall weather in Munich is unpredictable, and you can expect both sunrise and rain. The festival hosts thousands of visitors, especially on weekends. Weekdays in the first two weeks are less busy, while weekends and the last week are packed. The first weekend features the mayor tapping the keg, marking the start of the festivities. Arriving early ensures a table, as it gets busier by nightfall. The middle weekend, known as Italian Weekend, attracts many students from neighboring countries, offering vibrant social scenes and busy beer halls. It’s a great time to try Bavarian dishes and explore Munich’s city center. The closing weekend coincides with the German Reunification Day on October 3rd, drawing large crowds. This time is best for those who want to experience local culture despite the long lines.
Do You Need to Buy an Entry Ticket for Oktoberfest?
There is no ticket for Oktoberfest, as entry is free. It is only at the Oide Wiesn where you need to buy an entry ticket worth €4 if you are above 14. However, you can enter this place free after 9 P.M. Reserving tables at the Oktoberfest beer tent is free, but you can only reserve tables for eight to ten people. Besides, you need a budget of almost €350 to €500 to purchase food and drinks in Oktoberfest tents. Also, have some budget for the rides and into the festival grounds.
Oktoberfest Tent Tickets & Reservations
Oktoberfest tickets aren’t necessary for early mornings or weekdays as attendees are less at these times. However, you may need to reserve spots in beer tents for late night parties or opening and closing ceremonies. Make sure to buy beer tent tickets from the individual tents themselves. Never buy them from an online ticket reseller or some other source, as purchasing these tickets from a third party is considered illegal. Solo travelers or small groups of two or three people can easily find a spot in the beer tent and do not need to make a reservation. However, larger groups should plan and make reservations even before months. Visit every tent page individually to learn when they will start making reservations.
Schedule of Events and Performances
When planning your trip to Oktoberfest, you must be aware of certain performances and events happening at the event.
Here’s how you can find and plan around the schedule:
Visit the official website:
The most reliable source for up-to-date information on events and performances is the official Oktoberfest website. They provide a detailed schedule, including opening ceremonies, parades, live music performances, and special events.
Oktoberfest Apps:
Several mobile apps designed explicitly for Oktoberfest include event schedules, maps, and other helpful features. Look for apps like “Oktoberfest.de – The App” or “Oktoberfest Munich.”
Follow Official Social Media Accounts:
Follow Oktoberfest’s official social media accounts on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for the latest news and schedule updates. These accounts often post live updates and announcements about performances and special events.
How to Get to Oktoberfest?
Due to the huge crowd, parking issues may arise during Oktoberfest. The most favorable option is reaching Oktoberfest with public transport, which is cost-saving and time-saving. In planning travel to Oktoberfest, knowing the routes, parking, transportation options, estimated cost, and a reliable source is important.
1. From Munich Airport
The distance from Munich International Airport (MUC) to Theresienwiese (site of the Oktoberfest) is around 40 km (25 miles). Take the S-Bahn lines S1 or S8 to Marienplatz, then change to U-Bahn U4 or U5 in the direction of Theresienwiese, or take the Lufthansa Express Bus from the central station.
2. By Train
Munich Main Train Station (Hauptbahnhof) is only approximately a kilometer and a half away from the Theresienwiese; one can get here in less than 15 minutes on foot. U-Bahn (subway) U4 or U5 directly to station Theresien.
3. By Car
Parking at Theresienwiese is an expensive and limited option in so many ways, so it is not recommended. Others include extensive options like Park & Ride around Munich with U-Bahn. The stations are available in Fröttmaning, Garching- Hochbrück, and Westpark stations, all in U6. 4. By Public Transport
The MVV from Munich furnishes its travelers with a multiplicity of travel means. The U-Bahn (subway) lines U4 and U5 are best linked to either Theresienwiese station. The wider Munich area is connected to the S-Bahn (suburban train), with transfers to the U-Bahn, if required, to reach the city center.
Booking Oktoberfest Nearby Hotels and Accommodations
It is advisable to book a hotel in Munich as early as possible, ideally 6-12 months in advance. Oktoberfest attracts millions of visitors, and hotels fill up quickly. Rates during Oktoberfest are significantly higher than at other times of the year. Staying closer to the Theresienwiese can be more expensive, but it saves time and transportation costs. Hotels further away might be cheaper, but consider the convenience factor. These ten top hotels close to Oktoberfest grounds make reaching the festival easy while saving transportation costs. All these hotels offer world-class amenities and facilities for an exclusive stay during your trip to Munich.
Hilton Munich City
Hotel Metropol by Maier Privathotels
Bavaria Boutique Hotel
Hotel Cocoon Hauptbahnhof
Mercure Hotel Muenchen City Center
Residence Inn Munich Central
Hilton Munich Park
German Phrases You Should Know Before Attending Oktoberfest
To attend Munich’s Oktoberfest, you don't need to learn or speak much German. However, knowing some basic phrases can reduce confusion at the event. Here is a list of words that you should know when planning for the beer festival in Germany.
Wiesn - A local Bavarian name for the Oktoberfest festival grounds
Prost! – Cheers!
Bier – Beer
Servus – Friendly Greetings
Tracht – Traditional Bavarian clothing, which includes Lederhosen and Dirndl
Die Maß – A one-liter glass of beer. Danke – Thank you
Bitte – Please / You’re welcome
Speisekarte – Menu
Zahlen, bitte – The bill, please.
Entschuldigung – Excuse me
Hilfe! – Help!
Ja – Yes
Nein – No
Eingang – Entrance
Ausgang – Exit
Reservierung – Reservation
O’zapft is! – It's tapped! (Traditional phrase announcing the opening of the first beer keg)
Oktoberfest Items Checklist
Before you indulge in the excitement of the event, take a minute to double-check that you pack all the essentials.
The Basics
● Festival tickets
● Wallet or purse with enough cash
● ID card
● Mobile phone and charger or a power bank
● Bring enough water
● Earplugs
● Bags for a purse to carry essentials
Clothes & Shoes
● Lederhosen or Dirndl
● Socks and Undergarments
● Raincoat
● Headwear
● Sunglasses
● Comfortable Shoes
Medication and Toiletries
● Toothpaste and Toothbrush
● Shampoo and Shower Gel
● Tower and Comb
● Flipflops
● Deodorant
● Tissues
● Disinfectants
● First aid kit and plasters
● Sun Screen
● Painkiller medication
● Personal Medication
● Any Women’s Toiletries
Staying safe at Oktoberfest - Important Tips You Should Know
In addition to thinking about costs, it’s also essential to have some safety precautions in mind. Here are our tips:
Drink Responsibly:
Oktoberfest beer is stronger than your typical pilsner, so it's wise to choose a 0.5-liter beer instead of the larger Maß. Make sure to drink plenty of water in between beers and avoid drinking on an empty stomach to stay hydrated and reduce the effects of alcohol.
Dress Warmly:
Since it’s fall in southern Germany, it can get chilly, especially after sunset. Consider wearing leggings under your dirndl and bring a sweater. Comfortable shoes are also essential due to the extensive festival grounds.
Seek Help When Needed:
While Oktoberfest is about having fun, staying safe isessential. The "Sichere Wiesn für Mädchen und Frauen" website provides safety information and a secure space for anyone needing support or first aid. Watch Your Belongings: The large crowds at Oktoberfest are prime spots for pickpockets. Keep your backpack securely closed, and always watch your valuables. Since bags are restricted to 20 x 15 x 10 centimeters, use side bags or purses to keep your essentials safe.
Manage Your Money:
Cash is still necessary at some tents, like the Löwenbrau and Ochsenbraterei, which don’t accept card payments. If you use a card, consider a virtual card on your smartphone to avoid losing your debit card.
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Ross is known as the Pambansang Blogger ng Pilipinas - An Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Professional by profession and a Social Media Evangelist by heart.
