A Backpacker’s Perspective of Oktoberfest in Munich
The idea of travelling to Germany has particular appeal but there is something about Munich, a city famous for Bavarian beer and the world’s largest festival to celebrate it which makes it ideal.
Sure you can head to any other part of the world and experience something similar (most major cities have their own versions of Oktoberfest) but there is no real reason to settle for anything less than the original Oktoberfest in Munich.
Making Your Way to the Theresienwiese
Getting to Oktoberfest by yourself is easy enough and if you’re travelling around with a few friends, Deutsche Bahn (German Railways) offer some great deals allowing up to five people to travel anywhere in the country for roughly 10€ per head.
You’ll want to take public transport to and from the event regardless of how close by your hotel is. Trains are practically guaranteed to run on time and even if you miss the last train home you can do what many Bavarians do and sleep on the floor of the München Hauptbahnhof.
It’s the most fun you’ll ever have in your life.
Upon Your Arrival at Munich Oktoberfest
Remember that it’s a marathon not a sprint and you’ll want to pace yourself, especially if you plan on staying a while. Most of the time there will always be a table available for you and your friends to sit at but consider reserving one in the evenings when the crowds are bigger.
Make a Beeline for the Beer Tents
Every tent you’ll come across at Oktoberfest is free to enter. Beer is served in one litre steins and will typically set you back about 10€ with an asking price of 12-15€ for full meals. Keep in mind that German beers are stronger compared to other brews from around the world and contain around 6% alcohol.
The larger tents generally fill up quickly but perhaps when you walk into a space filled with 10,000 people you’ll decide that the vibe of one of the smaller tents will suit you better. You can’t really go wrong with your choices as every tent has a fantastic atmosphere though some are more extravagant than others.
Make a beeline straight for the beer tents
Towards the end of the night you should think about heading over to the Käfer Wies’n Schänke. This hangout is popular with locals for being the only tent to stay open until 1am and is the best place to be provided you come early enough to get a seat.
What Makes Oktoberfest Worth it?
Everything at Oktoberfest adds up and before you know it you could be wearing your budget thin. But that’s part of what makes Oktoberfest so much fun. It only comes round once a year and if you miss it in 2015, it’ll be a long wait before the next one.
As long as you part with your cash without any regrets you’re time and money will be well spent. It’s virtually impossible for anyone to experience everything there is to do at Oktoberfest and many travellers continue coming back for more.
Want to experience Oktoberfest in Munich? Check out these tours and bring your thirst.
