Frequently asked questions
When does Oktoberfest 2026 take place?
Oktoberfest 2026 runs from Saturday 19 September to Sunday 4 October (16 days). The official opening is at 12:00 noon when the Mayor of Munich taps the first keg with the cry 'O\'zapft is!' Each day opens at 10:00 on weekdays and 09:00 on weekends. Last serving is usually 22:30. Plan your train arrival for the first weekend to catch the opening parade.
How do I get to Munich for Oktoberfest by train?
ICE from every major German city lands at Munich Hauptbahnhof, 1.5km from the Theresienwiese festival grounds (15 min walk or 2 stops on U-Bahn U4/U5). From Frankfurt: 3h 15 ICE, €29-€79 Sparpreis. From Berlin: 4h ICE. From Cologne: 5h 30 ICE. Book at least 3 months ahead — all September ICEs fill fast.
Do I need a table reservation in a beer tent?
Not strictly, but strongly recommended for groups and evenings. Walk-in is possible at 10:00 on weekdays or 09:00 on weekends but tables fill by 11:00. Most tents take reservations 6-12 months ahead via their websites. Reservations come with a voucher bundle (beer + chicken) starting €150-€300 per seat — expensive but guarantees a table for your group. Weekday afternoons are the only realistic walk-in window.
Can I bring luggage onto the Wiesn?
No — security rules strictly prohibit bags larger than 20x15x10cm (about a small handbag). Drop luggage at your hotel first, or use the lockers at Munich Hbf (€4-€6/day). Backpacks, large purses, and suitcases will be refused at the entry checkpoints. Expect airport-style bag search.
How expensive is Oktoberfest for a tourist?
Expect €150-€250 per person per day before hotel. A Maß (1L beer): €14-€15. Half chicken (Hendl): €17-€20. Other meals in tents: €12-€25. Souvenirs (pretzel, gingerbread heart): €10-€30. Entry is free — you only pay for food/drink/rides. Hotels 2-4x normal rates — €250-€500/night for mid-range in September (vs. €120 off-season).
What should I wear?
Traditional Tracht (Lederhosen for men, Dirndl for women) is the norm — you'll feel out of place without it. Buy at Munich shops (Ludwig Beck, C&A has cheaper options, Murnauer Kaffeerösterei for authentic). Budget €80-€150 for a basic full outfit, €300+ for quality. Skip the €20 Halloween-costume versions — you'll get mocked. Alternatively: smart casual works at Oide Wiesn (the historical section).