Oktoberfest 2026

• Oktoberfest takes place in Munich and runs from Saturday, September 19 to Sunday, October 4 2026.
• Hours are from 10 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. on weekends.
• The festival takes place on the fairgrounds known as the Theresienwiese (often just called the "Wiesn").

Getting from Garmisch-Partenkirchen to Munich for Oktoberfest is easy and scenic. It's about 55 miles (90 km) north and takes around 1 hour.

The train is the easiest and most convenient option, especially during Oktoberfest when parking in Munich is limited.

• Take a regional train (BRB – Bayerische Regiobahn) from Garmisch-Partenkirchen Bahnhof directly to Munich's main station (München Hauptbahnhof).
• Trains run every hour, and the trip takes about 1 hour.
• From München Hauptbahnhof, the Oktoberfest grounds at Theresienwiese are just a 10-minute walk, or one stop on the U-Bahn (U4 or U5 to "Theresienwiese").
• You can buy tickets via the DB Navigator app or at the station.

Head to Munich on September 18 to get settled, then attend Oktoberfest on opening day, September 19. If you're hoping to get into a tent without reservations, arriving at the festival grounds early is your best bet, especially if you're with a larger group.

On September 20–21, take a rest day to explore Munich at a relaxed pace or head to the airport for your flight home.

Book your house stay to end on September 18 and reserve a hotel in Munich for a couple of nights.

For Oktoberfest, your best bets are:

• Ludwigsvorstadt‑Isarvorstadt – Right next to the festival grounds (Theresienwiese). Perfect for walking straight to the tents, but expect crowds and higher prices.
• Marienplatz / Altstadt – Central Munich, close to sights, restaurants, and nightlife. A short U‑Bahn ride away.
• Slightly outside the center – Budget-friendly or quieter options along U‑Bahn lines (U3, U4, U5, U6). Easy 10–20 minute ride to the festival.

Tip: Book early! Hotels fill up fast during Oktoberfest, especially near the festival.

For groups and evening visits, reservations are highly recommended, especially in the larger, more popular tents. If you go earlier in the day (around midday), you can often find open seating without a reservation.

If you do book a reservation, note that most tents require a minimum spend or a set food and drink package. Each tent sets its own rules, so it's best to check directly with them.

• Table reservations are made directly through each beer tent's official website (for example: Hofbräu-Festzelt, Schottenhamel, Augustiner-Festhalle, Paulaner, etc.).
• You can find a full list of official tents and reservation links on oktoberfest.de
• Most tents open their reservation systems between January and April each year.
• Some popular tents (Hofbräu, Käfer, and Schützen-Festzelt) fill up quickly, especially for opening weekend and evenings.
• Smaller tents or weekday slots often remain available later into summer.

Tip: If you can't get a reservation, don't worry—there are plenty of unreserved tables held open for walk-ins, especially before 4 p.m.

Oktoberfest is an all-day adventure—part beer festival, part carnival, and part cultural celebration—so dressing smart and packing right will make your experience much more comfortable.

• Comfortable Footwear – You'll be walking (and possibly standing or dancing) for hours, so choose sturdy, closed-toe shoes you don't mind getting a little dirty. Think sneakers, boots, or low heels rather than sandals or new white shoes.
• Traditional Bavarian Outfits (Highly Encouraged!) – Wearing a dirndl or lederhosen isn't required, but it's absolutely part of the fun and helps you feel like a local.
• Dirndls usually include a dress, apron, and blouse—styles range from traditional to modern.
• Lederhosen are knee-length leather shorts worn with a checked or white shirt and sturdy shoes.

You can buy or rent outfits in Munich before the festival. Popular rental shops include:

• Angermaier Trachten – High-quality traditional wear, available for rent or purchase.
• Bavarian Outfitters – Offers full Oktoberfest outfits and accessories.
• Lederhosen & Dirndl Verleih Wiesn Dress – Conveniently located near the festival grounds.
• Dresscoded – Online booking and pickup options for both men's and women's styles.

Tip: Book rentals early if you're arriving near opening weekend, as sizes sell out fast!

Cash and Cards – While many tents and vendors now accept cards, some smaller food stalls and souvenir stands are still cash-only or prefer cash for speed. Bring a mix of euros and a card just in case. ATMs are available on-site, but lines can be long.