Curator’s statement
Visiting Munich, Germany for Oktoberfest is a must for anyone seeking a lively cultural experience. Explore the massive tents filled with music, dancing and the chance to enjoy hearty Bavarian food like pretzels and sausages alongside giant steins of beer. Beyond the festival, Munich’s historic Old Town offers a charming dive into the past. Visit landmarks like the Marienplatz and Frauenkirche, while the Oktoberfest grounds are surrounded by attractions like the Nymphenburg Palace. Plus, Munich’s central location makes it an ideal base for extending your trip to nearby countries like Austria or the Czech Republic, just a short train ride away.
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Things to do in Munich
Scholar’s Lounge Irish Pub: This cozy Irish pub in Munich’s city center offers a warm, authentic atmosphere with Irish drinks, music and friendly staff. This makes it a great spot to unwind, enjoy a pint of Guinness and catch live sports or spontaneous karaoke.
Rathskeller München: Located beneath Munich’s New Town Hall. This historic restaurant serves delicious Bavarian cuisine in a stunning neo-Gothic setting with vaulted ceilings, perfect for experiencing traditional food and Munich’s lively culture.
English Garden: One of the world’s largest urban parks, this sprawling green oasis is ideal for relaxing, picnicking or watching surfers ride (yes, you read that right, surfing in the middle of Munich!) the Eisbach wave, offering a peaceful escape with beautiful scenery right in the city.
BMW Welt Museum: A futuristic showcase of automotive innovation. BMW Welt dazzles with sleek car displays and interactive exhibits, making it a must-visit for car enthusiasts and anyone interested in cutting-edge design.
Rathaus-Glockenspiel: This iconic clock tower performance at Marienplatz features animated figures reenacting historic events daily. It draws crowds for its charming blend of history, craftsmanship and Munich tradition. You can get some good views of the city from here.
Apple Strudel at Gaststätte Jagdschlössl: Savor this warm, flaky strudel with a rich apple filling at a beloved café near Viktualienmarkt. It is a delightful treat that pairs perfectly with coffee and showcases Munich’s culinary charm. Might be the best Apple Strudel in Munich!
Places to eat & drink in Munich
Rischart Café am Markt: Perched above the Viktualienmarkt. This café offers a delightful mix of traditional Bavarian treats like apple strudel and kaiserschmarrn. Pair your pick with organic fairtrade coffee, making it a perfect spot for a scenic breakfast or afternoon snack with views of Munich’s bustling market.
Gaststätte Jagdschlössl: A charming, rustic eatery in Munich’s Nymphenburg area, this spot serves hearty Bavarian classics like schnitzel and roast pork in a cozy, hunting-lodge ambiance, ideal for a comforting meal with a local feel.
Sweet Spot Kaffee: A minimalist specialty coffee shop near Viktualienmarkt, it’s a go-to for expertly brewed espresso and pour-overs. It offers a quiet nook for coffee lovers to savor high-quality beans in a modern setting.
Segafredo Espresso Bar: This sleek Italian-style bar in central Munich delivers bold espressos and cappuccinos alongside light bites. It is perfect for a quick, authentic coffee break amid the city’s hustle.
Döner Kebab: This is a popular street food spot with various locations. It serves juicy, flavorful döner kebabs packed with fresh veggies and sauces on warm bread, offering a fast, tasty and affordable taste of Munich’s vibrant Turkish influence.
Rathskeller München: Nestled beneath Munich’s New Town Hall in the Marienplatz. This historic restaurant boasts a stunning neo-Gothic interior with vaulted ceilings and wooden paneling. It serves up traditional Bavarian dishes like weißwurst and roast pork, making it an ideal spot to savor authentic cuisine while soaking in the city’s rich heritage.
Need to know
To make the most of Oktoberfest, book your tent early. Tables typically go on sale in February for the September/October event, so plan as spots fill up fast. Expect plenty of walking in Munich. The city is pedestrian-friendly, and while attractions like the English Garden or Nymphenburg Palace may be a trek apart, the sights are worth it. Reserve a tent table (fitting 6–10 people, depending on the tent) for one day and gather a group to share the experience. Arrive at least a day before to settle in and explore and stay a day after to recover. Most tents serve only beer — massive, delicious steins of it — but a few, like Schützen-Festzelt, offer limited liquor options such as schnapps, so plan accordingly. I recommend a week-long trip (excluding travel days) to fully enjoy Munich. Allow time for day trips to the Alps for stunning scenery or easy train rides to nearby countries like Austria, Switzerland or the Czech Republic. All are conveniently close to Munich’s central hub.
Travel Advisor
Jacob Bryant
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