Hi! We are doing an upcoming RS tour and will have a free day in Munich during the Oktberfest. (Sept 22). Does anyone know if the RS tour guide gives tips or accompanies those of us that want to attend? We're clueless at this point on how to maneuver tickets/tables/crowds. Of course that's all part of the experience & fun but just wondered if we should expect any assistance once there? Thank you!
Posted by
Utah via SF Bay Area
545 posts
We were at Oktoberfest prior to another RS trip in Central Europe. This was in 2022 and this was the first Oktoberfest in 2 years, so there was alot of pent up demand for Oktoberfesting. Overall-- it is very easy and hassle free.
It is not necessary to reserve a table if you are going during the day. There is no admission charge-you can come and go as you please. There is a small bag rule. I brought a Small Baggalini that could hold my stuff and be compliant. Larger bags will have to be checked in the lockers.
We did most of our Oktoberfest during the day. We could eat and drink without lines and sit where we wanted. The horse drawn beer wagons are out during the day only. These were pretty impressive. We also went back at night. It was easy to get into a tent at night, but we just checked it out and left-- at the time there were covid protocols on tour and the last thing we wanted was to ruin our RS trip for a beer.
You must be seated to have a beer. Once seated, one of the many waitresses will take your order. A short time later your beer and food arrive. Roving pretzel sellers are everywhere inside the tents. The food was great (We went to Augustiner tent), the music was fun, and the crowd was lively but not obnoxious. Each tent has its own personality and vibe, let's say, and some tents will be more hip and happening than others. There is something for everyone.
Many people will be wearing traditional German outfits, but jeans are ok. Don't worry about packing special outfits. There are some amazing rides on the midway, but ride first drink afterwards. Many concession stands are available throughout the complex for different foods. There are also beer gardens if you can't, or don't want to get into a tent. Maybe your RS tour guide will arrange to go Oktoberfest if there is enough interest. It really is fun.
Posted by
10301 posts
I lived in nearby Augsburg and did three Oktoberfests back in the late 80s early 90s.
I recommend the Paulander or Spatenbrau tents.
Go about lunch time and have the wonderful rotisserie chicken with your mass of beer. Watch you consumption, the beer is stronger than American beer.
You won't need reservations unless you go for Dinner.
If your hotel is near the city center you can walk to the grounds.
Posted by
The Heartland USA
9769 posts
When we were there on an RS tour (2014) the RS guide showed us how to get there and back, pointed things out, and then left us there on our own as it was in free time. It was easy to navigate and as it was daytime, it was no problem picking a tent and joining in.
Posted by
Northwest Arkansas
1171 posts
I think Stan nailed it. Since you are going on a Tuesday you should have no trouble walking into a tent and finding a seat during the day. Tuesday evening is a bit busier, but not an insurmountable challenge. If you are a planner, here is the official Oktoberfest site with loads of info https://www.oktoberfest.de/en/information. The grounds and tents are free to enter. You only pay for what you eat and drink.
If some other travelers go with you in the evening, a seat for 2-4 should be no problem.. One you get up to 8+ it can become more of a challenge to find a table for all of you together in the most popular tents.
Cash is still king at Oktoberfest. I suggest having 150 Euro per person in your pocket for a full day and evening. One other caveat, no backpacks or big hand bags are allowed.
And, if you have a picnic table at home, practice standing on the bench, holding a liter of beer and singing American pop songs at the top of your lungs.