In order for your first-time-visit to be a great experience, read what to keep in mind.

Especially, when you’ve never been to the Oktoberfest, the following tips should help you to make the most of your visit.

  • Since 2017, admission to the ground is not possible before 9am.
  • On Friday nights and Saturdays, you may need a table reservations to enter a tent due to overcrowding. Check the beer tent crowd barometer before planning your trip.
  • Since 2016 bags larger than 3 liters have been banned. You need to leave them at the bag deposit outside of the fairgrounds.
  • Start looking for an accommodation early, as there will always be too few hotels in Munich during Oktoberfest.
  • When overcrowding is imminent, the main entrances of the tents are the first to close. Don’t forget to look at the entrances in the beer gardens.
  • The worst time to look for seats in the beer tents is late afternoon during the reservation change.
  • The tent, which is often the last to close for overcrowding is the Armbrustschützenzelt. Checking out the Winzerer Fahndl is also often a good idea.
  • Don’t hesitate to ask waiters for free seats, also in the boxes.
  • Wear proper shoes. Especially in the evenings there’s a chance you may walk over broken glass.
  • Don’t try to steal mugs. You’ll have to leave them at the exit anyway.
  • Lunchtime is way calmer than the evenings. If you like a more relaxed atmosphere, come early.
  • Tuesdays are family days and offer reduced prices.
  • On weekdays before 3pm, many showmen have specials offers.