Curator’s statement
Oktoberfest in Munich is a bucket-list experience for any beer lover. The festival has been held annually since 1810 and attracts millions of visitors from around the world. As a travel expert, I have learned how to make the most out of this unique event. In this itinerary, I will share my top picks for accommodations, activities, food and insider tips for a memorable Oktoberfest experience.
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Day 1: Explore Munich
Start your trip off by exploring the city of Munich. Visit the Marienplatz, the central square of Munich, and see the famous Glockenspiel clock. Enjoy a traditional Bavarian lunch at one of the many beer gardens around the city, like Augustiner Keller or Hofbräuhaus. Take a stroll through the Englischer Garten, one of the largest urban parks in the world and visit the Chinese Tower Beer Garden.
Day 2: Oktoberfest
Today is the first day of Oktoberfest! Start your day by getting to the festival grounds early to secure a table at one of the beer tents. Try some of the traditional Bavarian foods, like brezn (pretzels,) wurst (sausages) and schnitzel (breaded meat.) Drink beer! Oktoberfest is all about the beer, so make sure to try some of the famous brews from breweries like Augustiner, Hofbräu and Paulaner. End your night with a ride on one of the festival's famous carnival rides, like the Ferris wheel or roller coaster.
Day 3: Oktoberfest Continues
Today is your second day at Oktoberfest! Take a break from the beer tents and explore the festival grounds where you can find traditional Bavarian clothing like lederhosen and dirndls. Enjoy some of the festival's live music, from traditional oompah bands to modern pop acts. Try some of the festival's unique attractions, like the beer stein holding competition or the giant slide. End your night with a visit to the silent disco, where you can dance to your own beat with wireless headphones.
Day 4: Day Trip to Neuschwanstein Castle
Take a break from Oktoberfest and head to the nearby Neuschwanstein Castle, one of the most famous castles in the world. Take a guided tour of the castle, which was the inspiration for Disney's Sleeping Beauty Castle. Enjoy the stunning views of the Bavarian Alps from the castle's balcony. Visit the nearby town of Füssen, where you can try some of the famous Bavarian cheese, like Allgäuer Bergkäse.
Day 5: Beer Gardens and Breweries
On your last day in Munich, explore some of the city's famous beer gardens and breweries.
Visit the Hofbräuhaus brewery, one of the oldest in Munich, and try some of their famous beer. Take a stroll through the Nymphenburg Palace gardens, where you can find a beautiful beer garden with views of the palace. Visit the Augustiner Bräustuben beer hall, which serves up traditional Bavarian food and beer in a cozy atmosphere. End your trip with a visit to the Andechs Monastery, where you can try some of the famous Andechs beer and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
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Lizz Callaway
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Germany.