Bavaria & Munich

Prost! My Guide to Master Oktoberfest and Munich (2024 & 2025 Edition)

After back-to-back years at Oktoberfest (2024 and 2025), I've learned exactly where to splurge, where to save, and why "location, location, location" is the most important rule in Bavaria. Whether you're here for the beer or the mountains, here is how to navigate Munich and beyond like a pro.

The Great Hotel Debate: Airport vs. City Center

On my first trip, we stayed at the Hampton Inn in Hallbergmoos near the airport. While it was cheaper than the city center, I wouldn't recommend it unless you have a rental car and zero plans to use public transit.

• The Reality Check: The hotel advertises a shuttle to the airport (8km away), but you have to buy tickets and it's incredibly inconvenient.
• The "Uber" Nightmare: One night, the S-Bahn unexpectedly shut down, and we had to shell out 100 euros for an Uber back to Hallbergmoos.
• The Lesson: For Oktoberfest, just spend the money. Book as far in advance as possible and stay within walking distance of the Theresienwiese festival grounds.

For my 2025 trip, we stayed at Hotel Fidelio. It's a no-frills, economic option, but as two female travelers, we felt incredibly safe. It features a great breakfast and an underground parking garage with a car elevator!

Oktoberfest Tips: Pack Your "Patient Pants"

Even with experience, the festival can throw curveballs. In 2025, they actually shut all entrances due to overcrowding. We had to walk the entire perimeter and wait nearly 90 minutes just to get inside.

The Tents: I've had a blast in both the Hofbräuhaus and Paulaner tents. We didn't have reservations either time and managed to find great spots, but be prepared for long waits.

The Vibe: It is worth every bit of effort, just be prepared to be flexible with the crowds!

Authentic Eats & Old Town Exploration

If you want a break from the festival crowds, spend a day exploring Munich's "Old Town":

• Breakfast with a View: Start at Rischart: Café am Markt. Eat on the terrace overlooking the Viktualienmarkt.
• The Route: Walk through Marienplatz, shop the market, and head toward Odeonsplatz to see the Theatine Church and the Hofgarten.
• The Finale: Walk to the Eisbachwelle to watch the river surfers, and don't miss the gardens at Nymphenburg Palace.

My "Hidden Gem" Recommendation:

On our way from the airport, we found Zur Waldhütte. It's located in a Kleingartenverein (a community garden) where locals rent tiny plots with cottages. Walking through this "garden refuge" was stunning, and the Käsespätzle and Schnitzel were perfectly authentic.

Alpine Escapes: The Magic of Füssen

Renting a car is a must to see the Bavarian Alps. After visiting the iconic Neuschwanstein Castle, I highly recommend staying overnight in Füssen rather than rushing back to Munich.

Where to Stay: Hotel Sommer. This was a highlight of the trip! The spa is incredible and offers stunning views of Lake Forggensee, the Alps, and even the castle itself.

The Food: We chose the half-board option, which included an incredible dinner of Rindergulasch (beef goulash) served with Spätzle. The breakfast spread the next morning was just as extensive and delicious.

Mountain Peaks: While in the area, visit the storybook town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen, see Lake Eibsee, and take the cable car to the Zugspitze. On a clear day, the cost of the gondola is 100% worth it.

The Ultimate Birthday Splurge

If you really want to treat yourself, stay at the Hilton Munich Airport. I booked a room through their restaurant to get a discounted rate for my birthday.

The Spa: The Mountain Hub Spa is the perfect way to recover from an overnight flight.

The Food: I had my first Michelin-star experience at Mountain Hub Gourmet. Pro Tip: If you are 30 or under, they offer a "Young Star" discount for the restaurant!

Munich is a city of contrasts—from rowdy beer tents to serene alpine lakes. My biggest takeaway? Plan for the crowds, but stay for the Spätzle.