Overnight train from Munich to Koeln during Oktoberfest

I think the earliest you can book that train is 90 days prior to departure. That being said, if you know you are definitely taking it, I'd book it the first possible day you can. That way you'll have your ticket, but you can also take advantage of any discounts on the ticket that might be offered that far in advance.

I would try to book it now. We tried to get a sleeper at the sale price and missed the opportunity. We were booking for Oct. 6! I think you can book further out when it is an overnight trip, but I'm no expert!

Where would I book it? I've looked on both raileurope.ca as well as bahn.de - raileurope only has one option to book, but bahn.de has many, but no option for just a reservation for a couchette if you have a railpass! Is there somewhere I can call to book this? (Besides raileurope)? Thanks!

You should be able to buy your sleeping accommodation supplement by phoning the DB Call Centre. Dial 011 (Canada & US international access code) + 49 (country code for Germany) + 1805 - 996633.

Will a direct train from Munich to Koln take long enough to get some sleep? What time will you arrive in Koln? Are there train changes?

I looked at the DB web site. It looks like your trip is about 8 hours when all other zero connection trains from Munich to Koln are 5 hours. Do you know why? Do they go slow or stop for several hours?

Apparently the train stops for a while, about an hour or so. I'd arrive in Koeln at 5:45am, which is perfect, because the cathedral opens at 6am. It looks like I'd be able to get at least 6 hours of sleep on the train. I'll be on my way to Brussels later that day, so I'd be able to nap on that train as well.

Thanks for all of your input! :)