Headed to Munich for Oktoberfest? Whether it’s been on your bucket list for years or you just got invited last-minute, there are a few things you’ll want to know before going to Oktoberfest. I attended a couple of years ago, and it was such an amazing experience! However, I didn’t do much research before the event, and I wish I had a list like this to feel more prepared. These Oktoberfest tips cover everything from what to wear and how much cash to bring to the etiquette that locals take seriously.
I also put together a comprehensive Oktoberfest guide that goes even deeper into everything you’ll find here, and also includes things to visit in Munich. If you want to feel extra prepared for your trip, definitely give it a read.
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General Information About Oktoberfest
What is Oktoberfest? Oktoberfest is the world’s largest beer festival, held every year in Munich, Germany. It began back in 1810 as a celebration of a royal wedding. Which is why Germans call Oktoberfest “Wiesen”.
When is Oktoberfest in 2025? For 2025, Oktoberfest will take place from Saturday, September 20th to Sunday, October 5th.
Where is Oktoberfest? The festival happens in Munich at the Theresienwiese, a huge open space just outside the city center.
26 Oktoberfest Tips You Need to Know Before Going
Think of this as your cheat sheet to avoid rookie mistakes, save some money, and make the most of your first Wiesn.
Recommended for you: The Ultimate Oktoberfest Guide
1. Oktoberfest Actually Starts in September
Don’t let the name fool you, most of Oktoberfest actually takes place in late September, with the final weekend spilling into October. Make sure you plan your trip dates accordingly.
In 2025, Oktoberfest runs from September 20th to October 5th.
2. The Festival Lasts for Two Weeks
Oktoberfest isn’t just a weekend event; it runs for more than two weeks. That means you don’t have to cram everything into one day. If you want to avoid the busiest crowds, consider going during the weekdays, when the atmosphere is a little more relaxed.
3. Entrance to the Tents Is Free
You don’t need a ticket to get into the beer tents — entry is free! You only pay for what you eat and drink once you’re inside. This surprises a lot of people who assume Oktoberfest is like a ticketed concert or festival.
4. Oktoberfest is Cash-Only
ATMs on site charge high fees and have long lines, so bring euros with you ahead of time. Trust me, you don’t want to be the person trying to pay for a liter of beer with a credit card. And if you don’t have the cash, you’ll miss out or pay high fees at the ATMs.
If you’re concerned about carrying cash in such a crowded space, I recommend getting a travel money belt. And if you’d rather carry a bag, then I’d go for a crossbody one. I always wear this Charles & Keith brown cross-body bag, and it has never let me down. Plus, it also has a different strap if you want to wear it on the shoulder.
5. Book Your Accommodation Early
Oktoberfest is a huge festival that attracts millions of people. Hotels and Airbnbs in Munich book up months in advance, and prices skyrocket the closer you get to Oktoberfest.
If you know you’re going, reserve a place as soon as possible, even a year ahead if you can! We booked our accommodation about 6 months ahead. And it was already a bit pricey, and it was hard to find a hotel. However, we lucked out by staying at Hotel Amba because it was within a 25-minute walk from the festival grounds.
6. Stay at a Hotel Near the Oktoberfest
Staying within walking distance of the Wiesn (the festival grounds) is super convenient! Public transport also makes it easy to stay farther out, but you probably don’t want to be in a crowded subway while drunk for an hour. Of course, there are taxis too if you don’t mind the price spike.
I’d also recommend checking the walking distance on Google Maps prior to booking a hotel, as Munich is a big city. We stayed at Hotel Amba, and it was a 25-minute walk to Oktoberfest.
Recommended for you: 18 Amazing Things To Do In Munich, Germany
7. Dirndls and Lederhosen Are the Norm
Almost everyone at Oktoberfest dresses up in traditional Bavarian clothing. Of course, you don’t need to dress up, but I’d say it’s half the fun!
Women wear dirndls (a dress with a blouse and apron), while men wear lederhosen (leather shorts with suspenders). You can find them on Amazon, or there are also plenty of stores in Munich; however, expect to pay around 100 to 300 euros. There are also rental companies.
I wasn’t able to find a dirdndl at a reasonable price, so I couldn’t dress up and still had a great experience, but I’d love to go back and do Oktoberfest the right way.
8. Learn the Apron Bow Rules
If you wear a dirndl, pay attention to where you tie your apron bow, as it actually has meaning:
- Left = single
- Right = taken
- Center = undecided
- Back = widow or waitress
Locals know this, and it’s a fun tradition that sparks conversations in the tents.
9. Comfortable Shoes Are Essential
Between walking to the festival grounds, standing in beer tents, and possibly hitting the carnival rides, your feet will thank you for choosing comfort over style. Women wear flats or low heels, but I think sneakers are your best bet, as you’ll probably get some beer spilled on you.
I spent two months in Europe, averaging 20,000 steps every single day, and there are no other sneakers I trust more than the Roger sneakers from on cloud. My feet never hurt, they are incredibly comfortable, and they don’t look too sporty!
10. Dress in Layers for Changing Munich Weather
Oktoberfest happens in early fall, which means the weather can change quickly. One day is sunny and warm, the next is chilly and rainy. Bring a cardigan or light jacket you can easily slip on when the temperature drops in the evening.
11. Each Beer Tent Has a Different Vibe
There are 14 main beer tents at Oktoberfest, and each has its own atmosphere. Some are rowdy and touristy, others are more traditional and family-friendly. For example, Hofbräu is popular with international visitors, while Augustiner is loved by locals.
For more information on beer tents and the beer itself, check out my Oktoberfest guide.
12. Beer Is Served by the Liter & It’s Strong
At Oktoberfest, you won’t find half-pints or cocktail menus. Beer is served by the liter (a Maß) and brewed specially for the festival, usually stronger than what you might be used to (around 6% ABV). One Maß can sneak up on you, so pace yourself and drink water in between rounds.
13. Don’t Skip the Food
From roast chicken (Wiesn-Hendl) to giant pretzels and pork knuckles, the tents serve Bavarian classics. It’s worth trying out different foods!
14. Reservations Aren’t Required
You don’t need a reservation to get into the tents, but if you’re in a group or want guaranteed seats during busy times, booking one in advance is a lifesaver.
Tables typically seat 8–10 people and book out months ahead. If you don’t have one, arrive early to improve your chances (before noon on weekends, or early afternoon on weekdays).
If you’d rather skip the stress, there are guided Oktoberfest tours that include a tent reservation, food, and beer. They sell out quickly, but they’re worth it for first-timers who want a smooth experience.
15. Standing on Benches Is Fine, Tables Are Not
It’s part of the fun to stand on benches and sing along once the band gets going, but standing on the tables is a big no. Do it, and you’ll be escorted out by security faster than you can say “Prost.”
We actually saw this happen a few times. Apparently, it is a custom that when a group is almost ready to leave, they’ll stand on the table and chug the liter of beer (or whatever is left) before being escorted out and going to another tent. It is actually something I recommend you pay attention to as everyone starts signing and clapping!
16. Don’t Fall for Oktoberfest Scams
Munich is a very safe city, but Oktoberfest attracts millions of people, which means a few scams do pop up. Here are the most common ones to avoid:
- Skip-the-Line Tickets: Entry to Oktoberfest is completely free. Anyone selling you “admission tickets” is running a scam.
- Table Reservations for Sale: Reservations are only made directly through the beer tents and are not transferable.
If you’re visiting Germany soon, you’ll love my upcoming guides to Berlin and Paris. Join below so you don’t miss them!
17. Expect to Spend €60–100 Per Day
Between beer, food, and maybe a ride or two, the average Oktoberfest day isn’t cheap. A liter of beer costs around €13–15, roast chicken is €15–20, and other meals can climb to €25 or more. Add in tips and maybe a few carnival rides, and you’re looking at €60–100 per person, per day.
There are a few ways to save money, and I go over them in my Oktoberfest guide.
18. Avoid ATMs on Site
Yes, there are ATMs at Oktoberfest. But the lines are long and the fees are high.
Save yourself the hassle and bring enough cash with you in advance. A small crossbody bag (my favorite) or money belt is the safest way to carry it in the crowds.
19. Always Tip Your Server
The waitresses and waiters at Oktoberfest carry up to 10 liters of beer at once! It is honestly impressive to see them do it, and I think they train to be able to serve at Oktoberfest. So, they definitely deserve a tip! A tip of €1–2 per beer is standard and ensures you’ll get faster service throughout the day.
20. Expect to Share Tables
Oktoberfest is a communal experience. Unless you have a private reservation, you’ll be sitting with strangers. It’s part of the fun. Strike up a conversation, share a toast, and you’ll likely walk away with new friends from around the world.
21. Consider an Oktoberfest Tour for a Hassle-Free Experience
If the idea of fighting for a seat in a crowded tent stresses you out, booking an Oktoberfest tour can be worth the splurge. Many include a reserved table, a couple of liters of beer, and food. While they cost more upfront, they can actually save you time, stress, and even money compared to trying (and failing) to snag a table on your own.
22. Learn the Oktoberfest Toast
The band plays “Ein Prosit der Gemütlichkeit” (cheers to good times and togetherness) several times an hour, and everyone raises their glasses to sing along. I recommend you learn it since you’ll definitely hear it a lot! It’s short, easy to pick up, and it makes you feel more included when you know the lyrics.
23. Respect Bavarian Culture
Yes, Oktoberfest is a giant party, but it’s also a celebration of Bavarian tradition. Don’t treat it like a college frat event, avoid disrespectful behavior or over-the-top drunkenness.
24. Weekdays Are More Relaxed Than Weekends
If you want the full, high-energy Oktoberfest experience, go on a weekend, that’s when the tents are at their rowdiest and most packed. But if you’d prefer a calmer vibe (and better chances of getting a seat without a reservation), weekdays are the way to go.
Early afternoons are especially good for families or anyone who wants to soak in the atmosphere without being shoulder-to-shoulder.
I went early in the afternoon and stayed until 11pm, that way we could walk around, explore, and take it in before it gets rowdy and crowded.
25. Don’t Miss the Parades
On the opening weekend, there’s a huge parade featuring marching bands, horse-drawn beer wagons, and thousands of people in traditional Bavarian costumes. On the first Sunday, you can see the Traditional Costume Parade too.
26. Explore Munich Between Oktoberfest Days
Munich is one of Germany’s most beautiful cities. Spend a day wandering Marienplatz, chilling in the English Garden, or browsing local specialties at the Viktualienmarkt. I put together a guide with 18 things to do in Munich you can add to your itinerary.
Oktoberfest Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! There are parades, rides, traditional food, and cultural events that make it fun even if you’re not drinking. And if you’d rather drink wine, you’ll be pleased to know that there are plenty of stalls selling wine.
Weekends are the busiest — if you want a calmer experience, go on weekdays or earlier in the day.
Not at all, but learning a few phrases like Prost (cheers) and Danke (thank you) will go a long way.
The first weekend is festive with parades, the second weekend is busiest, and weekdays are the most relaxed.
Yes — especially on Tuesdays during Family Days, when rides and food are discounted.
With these Oktoberfest tips, you’ll walk into Munich’s legendary festival feeling prepared. Oktoberfest is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and a little preparation goes a long way toward making it unforgettable. So raise your Maß, join in the singing, and say “Prost!” to memories you’ll be talking about for years.
