I hope this blog finds you off to an amazing start of the year! While I was experiencing Bavarian culture for the first time at one of the world’s largest festivals in Munich, Germany, I found myself constantly reminded about how a travel advisor can provide value to a trip and the work that we do together.
The official Oktoberfest fairgrounds are immense, hosting over 6 million visitors this year alone! It’s the world’s largest beer and folk festival, with the event happening in Munich, Germany every year at the Theresienwiese. What started as a one-time royal wedding party in 1810, has evolved into a multi-week celebration of Bavarian culture. One of the biggest misconceptions about Oktoberfest is that it actually takes place in mid-September and finishes up on the first Sunday of October.
Some fast facts from Oktoberfest this year:
- 6.5 million visitors
- 6.5 million liters of beer sold
- 116,000 beer mugs stolen
For a festival of this scale, preparation is key to having an enjoyable experience because it can be overwhelming to some. The tents are HUGE! Holding over 10,000 people in some of them. Each tent has their own vibe and understanding some of these differences will enhance your experience. Lucky for you, I was able to step foot in almost every tent making my expertise invaluable.
My top 5 Oktoberfest Takeaways:
- The food is not the be missed! There are so many great food options inside and outside of the tents, you must come with empty bellies and be prepared to try some new things you didn’t think you’d like. Even if you don’t drink beer, the food can be the star of your show! Things like roast chicken, pork knuckle, bratwurst of course, and many many others will be found here.
2. Hotel within walking distance. You will thank yourself for choosing comfort over trying to save a dollar or two. I cannot stress enough how convenient it is to have a hotel within walking distance to the fairgrounds. When we woke up in the mornings, we never had to worry about the train schedule, the massive crowds, or trying to find a taxi in the morning. And don’t even think about driving yourself, no parking! I can give you some good recommendations for moderate pricing.
3. Avoid crowds by going on weekdays and getting there early in the morning. It’s pretty self explanatory, but this year they closed the entrances to the fairgrounds a couple of evenings due to overcrowding. Don’t put yourself in this situation by trying to get into a tent at 5pm on a Saturday.
4. Bring more money than you think you’ll need. The prices of everything will add up and you want to make sure you don’t have to use the fairgrounds ATM they have a poor exchange rate and high fees.
5. Understand the etiquette. If you don’t have table reservations, chances are you’ll be sitting next to some strangers. Almost everyone we met spoke a bit of English so embrace it and be friendly! Other things like no standing on the tables (benches are fine) and make sure you mix in some waters with the bier. (Remember, they’re liters!)
Ready to Plan Your Own Great Escape?
I’m back and feeling refreshed and already applying these insider tips to my client bookings.
If you have a global festival, a bucket-list European journey, or any travel idea for 2026, let’s talk about how to get you that perfect itinerary with stress-free logistics and insider knowledge.
If you found these takeaways helpful, please schedule a consultation call with me to help plan and book your next trip to Oktoberfest, or Munich in general! You don’t have to visit during the Oktoberfest season to experience the beer halls and traditional foods, you can get those any time of year. I have so many more thoughts I’d love to share with my clients booking Oktoberfest!
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Because your next trip deserves to be remembered forever.
Sojourney Travel with Sydney 
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