You’ve seen the pictures. You’ve heard the hype. But is Oktoberfest actually worth visiting? Is it a once-in-a-lifetime experience, or just an overpriced tourist trap?
In this guide, we’ll break down:
✅ Who will love Oktoberfest (and who won’t)
✅ How much it costs & whether it’s worth the money
✅ What to expect—both the highlights & downsides
✅ Is it worth it if you don’t drink beer, are on a budget, have been to Munich before or can only go for one day?
By the end, you’ll know whether Oktoberfest deserves a spot on your itinerary!
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What Is Oktoberfest and Why Is It So Popular?
Before we dive into whether it’s worth it, let’s quickly cover what Oktoberfest actually is.
📍 Location: Munich, Germany
📅 Duration: Two weeks, starting from the first Saturday after September 15
🎉 Why It’s Famous: The world’s largest beer festival, attracting over 6 million visitors every year
📢 2025 Dates: September 20 – October 5
Oktoberfest started in 1810 as a royal wedding celebration of crown prince Ludwig of Bavaria and has since evolved into a global cultural event. But it’s not just about beer—it’s a Bavarian tradition featuring parades, folk music, amusement rides, and some of the best food and beer you’ll ever have.
Fun Fact: Over 7 million liters of beer are poured at Oktoberfest each year—that’s enough to fill almost three Olympic swimming pools!
Want a full breakdown? Read our article “What is Oktoberfest?”
Who Will Love Oktoberfest (And Who Won’t)?
When we first visited Oktoberfest in Munich, we weren’t sure what to expect. We had heard stories about crazy crowds, overpriced beer, and long lines—but we also knew it was a bucket-list event in Germany.
So, was it worth it?
Let’s be real, Oktoberfest is fun – but not for everyone. Here’s who will love it, and who might want to skip it.
✅ Oktoberfest is perfect for you if you:
❌ You might not enjoy Oktoberfest if you:
💡 Alternative Idea: If Oktoberfest sounds overwhelming, consider visiting Munich in the off-season to enjoy beer halls and Bavarian culture without the crowds.
Is Oktoberfest Worth It If…?
1. You Can Only Go for One Day
✅ Yes!
If you only have one day at Oktoberfest, that’s totally fine. We recommend getting there early in the morning to secure a spot in one of the beer tents, especially if you haven’t made a reservation in advance.
2. You Don’t Drink Beer
✅ Surprisingly, yes, it’s still worth it!
Oktoberfest is not just about German beer—it’s a folk festival with live brass bands, carnival rides, parades, and amazing food. Many tents also serve non-alcoholic options or also lighter beer like Radler (beer mixed with lemonade), wine, and even soft drinks.
💡 Insider Tip: If beer isn’t your thing, check out the wine tent (Weinzelt), which offers a great selection of Bavarian and international wines.
3. You’re Traveling on a Budget
It depends, since Oktoberfest isn’t cheap —but how expensive is it really? Here’s what you can expect to spend:
| Expense | Estimated Cost |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Beer (1 Maß) | €13 – €15 per liter |
| Tipping | 10% of the total bill (or €1–2 per beer) |
| Food (per meal) | €10 – €25 |
| Accommodation (per night) | €100 – €400 (varies by location) |
| Public Transport in Munich | €10 – €50 |
⚠️ Being on a budget at Oktoberfest is tricky, but possible.
There are ways to save money:
Wondering where to stay on a budget when visiting Oktoberfest? Read: “Hotels in Munich for Every Budget”
4. You’ve Been to Munich Before
✅ It depends on what you’re looking for.
If you’ve already explored Munich’s top attractions—like Marienplatz, Neuschwanstein Castle, and the English Garden—Oktoberfest offers a completely different side of the city. It’s a chance to experience Munich’s culture in its liveliest form, with thousands of people celebrating together.
However, if you’re looking for a similar experience in another city, you might want to explore the Cannstatter Volksfest in Stuttgart.
Final Verdict: Oktoberfest in Munich is a fun thing to do – but not for everyone
Oktoberfest is an incredible experience, but it’s not for everyone. Whether or not it’s worth it depends on your travel style, budget, and tolerance for crowds and high-energy environments.
Oktoberfest is a must-do if you love beer, Bavarian food, and traditional festivals, and if you’re eager to experience Bavarian culture at its liveliest. It’s perfect for meeting people from around the world and sharing in the fun. Even if you don’t drink beer, there are plenty of non-alcoholic options and the festival’s music, food, and atmosphere make it enjoyable.
Oktoberfest might not be for you if you dislike large crowds, as the beer tents can get packed, especially on weekends. It’s also not ideal for travelers on a tight budget, given the high prices for accommodation, beer, and food.
Oktoberfest is your vibe? Great! If you’re ready to dive into the fun, don’t wait to book a hotel!
The best places to stay are often in high demand, especially as the festival approaches. Want to be just a few steps away from all the excitement? Discover our handpicked selection of the best hotels near Oktoberfest:
Oktoberfest Hotels
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