Oktoberfest Vacation – Munich’s Beer Halls and Tips for Traveling

On Sep 14, 2015

Oktoberfest is just around the corner, and we are scouting out the best places to celebrate. Of course, Germany is the place to be, but we have the details on Munich’s must-visit beer halls and tips for traveling.

I nearly forgot about the upcoming festival, but thanks to a worldly (and handsome) friend, I was gleefully reminded of the world’s largest Volkfest. However, I expressed my concern for his safety as the world endures changes and Germany is providing a haven for those suffering in result of those changes. After assuring me he contacted a friend who resides in Munich that it is being handled with open hearts, I couldn’t help but research it myself.

I was pleasantly warmed by stories of support. In one report, police in the Bavarian capital received so many donations of food, water, and supplies, they were overwhelmed by the community’s aid. Feeling relieved, I began hunting for firsthand tips to traveling in Munich and enjoying an Oktoberfest vacation.

There are many events, beer halls, and parties, but there are two locations that stand out as repeated suggestions. Augustiner brewery and Hofbräuhaus are popular draws, and for good reason. For a more tourist-friendly experience, try Hofbräuhaus for the full busty waitress, giant pretzels, and oompah band kitsch surrounded by fellow tourists.

Hofbräuhaus Tip – There is no hostess, you’ll have to be ready to jump when a seat opens up.

Conversely, the Augustiner brewery is a great choice for a more local experience. It’s the oldest brewery in the area and has a more traditional air to it. Busy, and loud, the bar is usually filled with regulars, but will accommodate those without reservations. Order a beer and the wait staff will keep track of your order by marking each beer on your coaster.

Augustiner Tip – Want to blend in? Only the tourist order full liters. Locals order halfies.

Munich’s main pedestrian area is compact, so you should be able to walk just about everywhere you’d like to go. Make sure you wear shoes that are comfortable. You can also take advantage of the metro which offers a line to get to Munich’s main train station from Flughafen München (Munich’s main airport).

Take a moment to learn, at the very least, some key phrases in German. At minimum memorize the basics…

Good Morning – Guten Morgen (Goo-ten Morgen)
Good Day – Guten Tag (Goo-ten Tahg)
Good Evening is Guten Abend (Goo-ten Ah-bent)
Goodbye – Auf Wiedersehen (Ow-fa Vee-da-zane)
Thank You is Danke (Dunk-ah)
Do you speak English is Sprechen Sie Englisch (Spa-wreck-ins Zee Ing-Lisch)
Cheers for drinking is Prost (Pro-st)

Getting a table will be your biggest challenge during Oktoberfest. Reservations are ideal, and you can get directly through each tent. Some offer an online reservation system, but most require either a written request or an in person visit. Keep in mind, reservations often come with a fee around 25-50 Euros per person. If you can’t get a reservation, either go during the week, get there early or visit the outdoor beer gardens. Also keep in mind, smaller groups are easier to accommodate.

Oktoberfest Tickets Tips – Never buy tickets from a 3rd party vendor. They won’t be honored and if you are caught selling extra tickets, your tickets – all of them – become void and no refunds are given. Also avoid tour guides offering to sell you legit tickets as part of their “tour” as they are usually grossly overcharged.