For just over two weeks from mid-September, staid and prosperous Munich erupts in a riot of beer, dirndls, parades, lederhosen, oompah bands, pork products, and fairground rides—the Oktoberfest. Beer halls and gardens, many with a capacity of thousands, spring up across the Theresienwiese, drawing travelers from around the globe to indulge in millions of liters of Bavarian beer.
While it’s easy to visit the Oktoberfest independently, tours that include accommodation and transport often work out cheaper than booking hotel rooms, particularly if you’re traveling from cities such as Salzburg or Prague.
The Theresienwiese is about a 1.5-mile (2.5-kilometer) walk west of Munich’s Marienplatz square. Catch the U-Bahn (subway) to Theresienwiese (line U4 and U5) or the S-Bahn (suburban train) to Hackerbrücke, a 10-minute walk away. Public transport gets congested during Oktoberfest, so consider joining a tour with transfers.
Oktoberfest, which runs from mid-September to early October, is by far the best time to visit Theresienwiese. But you might also find yourself visiting during spring or winter festivals.
The Oktoberfest draws vast crowds every year, so planning ahead is essential. Booking is vital if you want to sit down at most popular beer halls, especially at weekends; if arranging accommodation direct, reserve your room several months in advance. Bring plenty of cash, including change, as not all tents accept cards, and consider visiting midweek for a more mellow experience.
