From mid September to early October, Munich holds the biggest folk festival in the world. Oktoberfest dates back to the 1810 where the locals celebrated the wedding of Bavaria’s King Ludwig I and Saxe-Hildburghausen’s Princess Therese. The event produced so many precious moments that it was turned into an annual event. Fast forward to the present, Oktoberfest continues to attract over six million visitors not only from Germany, but also from all corners of the globe. So if you’re planning on being part of this monumental event, then let this list guide you. Here are the 8 most exciting things to do in Munich during the festival season. Apart from the good food and large amounts of beer, there are plenty more to check out indeed.
1. Beer Tents
When it comes to Oktoberfest in Munich, beer tents are often considered to be the main highlight. Each one has something spectacular to offer aside from tasty beverages. At Schützen-Festzelt, enjoy your drink with a plate of delicious pork and potato salad while admiring the rustic features. It’s also the tent where you can watch various competitions from the Bavarian Sport Shooting Association. Marstall is the newest Oktoberfest tent, but it’s already considered as one of the best thanks to its wide selection of traditional beers and dishes and its wooden horse carvings. While you dine and drink, let the local bands entertain you from the beautiful carousel stage.
With its waiters and waitresses constantly smiling despite their rigorous tasks, Augustiner-Festhalle is regarded as the friendliest spot. The beer from most tents comes from steel kegs, but Augustiner-Festhalle keeps its old school with wooden barrels. At night, visitors usually get up from the benches and dance to the music. It’s definitely a fun atmosphere. There are 11 more tents for you to choose from, all of which are worth exploring as well.
Beer Tents
Address: Theresienwiese festival grounds, Downtown Munich, Bavaria, Germany
2. The Oide Wiesn
The Oide Wiesn is on the southern section of the festival area, and it’s where history comes to life. Be astounded by the vintage costumes and try out the fun-filled 20th-century rides. Continue to the Museum-Tent for an opportunity to learn about the eventful past of Oktoberfest. You can also visit the two beer tents, namely Tradition and Herzkasperl. Both spots offer not only delicious food and drinks, but traditional dancing and musical performances as well. The Oide Wiesn is also the place to be if you want to experience a calmer vibe during the event.
The Oide Wiesn
Address: Theresienwiese festival grounds, Downtown Munich, Germany
3. Oktoberfest Parades
If you want to start Oktoberfest with a bang, make sure you attend the parades on the first Saturday and Sunday of the festival. The Saturday spectacle features the breweries and landlords roaming the streets in traditional style floats and carriages. On Sunday, be amazed by not only the creative floats, but also the showcase of different vintage costumes from all over the country. The music from the marching bands and the dance numbers will make the experience even more memorable.
Oktoberfest Parades
Address: Theresienwiese festival grounds, Downtown Munich, Germany
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4. Family Day
Oktoberfest may be well-known for beer drinking and partying, but it also has something special for the kids and kids-at-heart. Visit the festival grounds on a Tuesday and enjoy discounts on both admission tickets and some of the famous rides. One tent you should visit is the Familienplatzl, which offers fun shows, exciting activities, and delicious food for the little ones. Family Day starts at noon and ends at around 6:00 PM.
Family Day
Address: Theresienwiese festival grounds, Downtown Munich, Germany
5. English Garden
If you want to take a break from Oktoberfest’s bustling atmosphere, then head to this 900-acre (3,642,171 square meter) park. The English Garden is known as one of the world’s biggest parks, and it’s been welcoming visitors since 1789. You can jog, ride a bike, or go for a relaxing stroll through the shaded paths or just relax on the grass by the artificial stream to enjoy the lush scenery. There’s a huge chance of you spotting a few adorable ducks, geese, and squirrels along the way. Proceed to the well-preserved 19th-century Monopteros for a stunning view of the city. Another highlight is the field where you can watch soccer players in action.
English Garden
Address: 80538 Munich, Bavaria, Germany
6. Viktualienmarkt
Viktualienmarkt is also located in the city center, and it’s where you can buy a wide variety of gourmet products. With over 140 stalls for you to choose from, you can expect a memorable shopping experience all throughout. Some of the items offered here include cheese, fruits, vegetables, pretzels, and different types of meat. There are also stores selling colorful flowers. The garden area has plenty of tables where you can just sit back and enjoy a delightful meal. Viktualienmarkt is open from Monday to Saturday, 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. However, most of the stores are already closed by 6:00 PM.
Viktualienmarkt
Address: Viktualienmarkt 3, 80331 München, Germany
7. Marienplatz
Just walking distance from Viktualienmarkt is the historic square known as Marienplatz. Go for a stroll and be mesmerized by the well-preserved Gothic architecture of Rathous, which serves as the city hall. At St. Peterskirche, admire the mix of Gothic and other centuries-old architectural styles as well as the altar built by legendary sculptor Erasmus Grasser. Make sure you also head to the church’s steeple for a lovely view of the city. The center of Marienplatz is where you will see Mariensäule, a column created in 1638 to commemorate the end of the Swedish intervention in the Thirty Years’ War. A golden sculpture of Mother Mary is placed on top of the pillar, and it’s sure to astound you.
Marienplatz
Address: Marienplatz 1, 80331 Munich, Bavaria, Germany
8. Bavarian Beer and Food Evening Tour in Munich (from USD 68.0)
Bavarian Beer and Food Evening Tour in Munich. Oktooberfesti muuseum.
Posted by Arvo Sinivee on Saturday, 19 November 2016
The guide will meet you at the Munich Central Station and then, you will go on a journey through Munich’s exciting nightlife. This evening tour will take you to the Beer and Oktoberfest Museum where you can learn about the rich history of the drink and its impact in German culture. Afterwards, you will visit a popular beer garden to find out the traditional brewing process and taste delightful beverages and snacks. Some of the snacks offered here include pretzels, roast pork, and sausages. It’s a three-and-a-half hour trip, and it will certainly make you appreciate the city even more.
Bavarian Beer and Food Evening Tour in Munich
Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes
Have a good time in Munich
If you’re coming from Munich Airport, you can reach the festival grounds in just 40 minutes by car, taxi, or public transportation. As for the beers, they usually cost around 12 USD (10 EUR) per mug. The rates of the food range from 5 to 18 USD (~4 - 15 EUR). Noon is the best time to visit the Oktoberfest tents because they quickly fill up during the afternoon, especially on weekends. So now that you’re familiar with the activities, it’s time to get the party started. Come to Munich and be part of this epic event.
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