Navigating to Oktoberfest

How to go to the biggest beer festival in the world

Oktoberfest hall

* The bag you will bring into the festival must have a maximum volume of 3 liters and no bigger than 20 cm x 15 cm x 10 cm. For bags and backpack that exceed the volume or the size, there are storage options at the entrance, for a small fee. 

Also remember that your stomach will be your best ally during this festival, so be sure to bring with you a big appetite and a great desire to drink! And finally, don't forget to bring your energy and desire to have fun!

By following this ultimate guide to packing, you will be equipped with everything you need to have an unforgettable time at the festival. So, pack your bags, raise your beer mugs and get ready to immerse yourself in the lively Oktoberfest festivities! 

Oktoberfest packing guide: Essentials for an unforgettable experience

Oktoberfest, the world's largest beer festival held annually in Munich, Germany, is a celebration of Bavarian culture, lively music, delicious food, and, of course, copious amounts of beer. To ensure you have an unforgettable Oktoberfest experience, we've made a completepacking guide with everything you need to take with you tonavigate Oktoberfest like a pro.At the bottom of the page, you canalsodownloadthe checklist we have prepared for you!

  • Traditional Bavarian attire - Wear traditional Bavarian clothing. Men can opt for Lederhosen, the iconic knee-length leather shorts, paired with a plaid shirt, suspenders, and sturdy shoes. Women can wear Dirndls, apron dresses, and comfortable shoes. Wreaths of flowers, necklaces of beer shins, decorative pins or hats adorned with feathers are always welcome!

  • Weather-appropriate clothing - September in Germany can be unpredictable, so it's a good idea to bring warm, rain-appropriate clothes. Pack warm socks, a jacket or sweater for cooler evenings, and a compact umbrella or rain jacket for unexpected downpours.

  • Comfortable shoes - Oktoberfest involves a lot of walking, dancing and standing, so comfortable shoes are a must. Choose closed-toe shoes with good support so you can enjoy the festival without pain!

  • Backpack*/crossbody bag/fanny pack - A small backpack, crossbody bag or fanny pack is ideal for carrying essentials, leaving your hands free for beer mugs and pretzels. Use a bag with secure closures and enough room for your belongings.

  • Cash and cards - Bring cash to Oktoberfest. Many beer stalls and tents only accept cash payments. Bring your credit card anyway in case you need more money, some tents have ATMs.

  • Power bank - With all the photo opportunities and social media sharing, your phone's battery could run out quickly. A portable charger is essential so you can capture memorable moments, contact your friends, and for any kind of emergency.

  • Hand sanitiser and wet wipes - If you are a hygiene-conscious person who occasionally wants to freshen up, don’t forget to pack hand sanitiser and wet wipes.

  • Kleenex - It is always a good idea to bring tissues just in case!

  • Water bottle - Hydrating is always important, but during Oktoberfest even more so! Every now and then you'll want to take a break from beer, so bring along a refillable water bottle (note: it doesn't have to be a glass bottle).

  • Passport / ID - Always carry a valid form of identification.

  • Campsite entrance bracelets - Don’t lose your campsite bracelet! 

  • Sleep mask and earplugs - Take a sleeping mask and earplugs with you so you can sleep well and be rested, ready to enjoy the festival!

Explore the differences in Oktoberfest Beer tents

Navigating the fourteen big tents at Oktoberfest can be a challenge when it comes to making the right decision. Are you curious about the differences between the various tents and the variety of beers served in each tent? Read our overview of the tents and choose the ones you like best!

But first of all, you need to know what the opening hours are!

Opening day: 12:00 – 22:30 

Beer serving hours:

  • Weekdays: 10:00 - 22:30

  • Weekends: 09:00 – 22:30

Oktoberfest closes 00:30 (‘Käfers Wiesnschänke’ and ‘Weinzelt’ open until 01:00)

Munich is more than just beer!

While Munich may be renowned worldwide for its beer and the iconic Oktoberfest celebration, this vibrant city has so much more to offer beyond its famous brews. From its rich history and architectural splendours to its thriving arts scene, lush green spaces, and culinary delights, Munich is a multifaceted destination that captivates travellers with its diverse array of attractions. So, put down your beer stein for a moment and visit the city of Munich.

Below is a short overview of some of the greatest cultural sights worth visiting in Munich.

Marienplats & Town Hall - The heart and central space of Munich. You will find numerous shops & restaurants or visit most cultural sites within a couple of minutes.

Frauenkirche - Considered an icon of the city & the biggest cathedral in Munich. It replaced the original cathedral, which was partly destroyed during WWII. If you are not afraid of heights, the left tower is open to viewers.

  • Opening hours: 07:30 – 20:00

  • Free entrance

The Deutsches Museum - One of the oldest & largest science museums in the world. Dating back to 1903, it has an impressive collection of must-see exhibitions. 

  • Opening hours: 09:00 - 17:00

  • Tickets: €15

Olympic Stadium - Built for the Summer Olympics of 1972, it continues to host big events to this day. During the 1974 World Cup final, 80,000 people saw Germany beat the Netherlands in this stadium. 

  • Opening hours: 09:00 – 18:00

  • Tickets: € 3.5

Dachau Concentration Camp - A short distance from Munich, outside the city centre, this is a historical sight worth visiting. It was the first concentration camp based in Germany. Built in 1933, it was originally intended to hold political prisoners. Approximately 32 000 deaths were documented at the camp & thousands that are undocumented, before & during the Holocaust. Conditions in this camp were horrifying. After 1948, the prison held SS soldiers awaiting trial.

  • Opening hours: 09:00 – 17:00

  • Free entrance

Munich church
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Students in Munich

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