How to Spend 1 Week in Germany for Oktoberfest

Germany is known for its magical, fairytale castles and medieval towns. It is a place that I have always dreamed of visiting. This itinerary revolves around the Oktoberfest event in Munich. I would love to have a beer (even though I rarely drink anymore) and dress up in the iconic dirndl outfit in Munich! The traditional Alpine dress originates from Germany. In addition, I would book the day tour to Rothenburgh as well as a tour to the infamous Neuschwanstein Castle. Here is how to spend 1 week in Germany for Oktoberfest.

Tips for Visiting Germany During Oktoberfest:

• Book your flights early to get the best deals

• You do not need an expensive reservation to enter the Oktoberfest festival. You can go tent hopping. Many tables inside the tents are not reserved.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes
• Avoid Peak Crowds and Attend the Festival During the Week
• Ensure you have enough Euros on hand for snacks, rides, and tipping, as vendors may not accept credit or debit cards.

Where to Stay in Munich During Oktoberfest?

• Option 1: Staying close to the festival site is ideal for easy access and convenience. Hotels like Hampton by Hilton Munich City Center or Marriott Munich are within a short distance, allowing you to walk or take a quick ride to the tents.
• Option 2: The historic heart of Munich offers easy access to many attractions. Hotels such as Sofitel Munich Bayerpost or Hotel Torbräu provide comfort and a central location, making it easy to reach Oktoberfest and explore the city during your stay.

Day 1: Fly to Munich and Settle in to Your Hotel-

Book your flight to and from Munich early to get the best deals. Find a hotel in Munich on Booking.com for the best location and deals. If you decide to stay in the city center, there are plenty of dinner options within walking distance, such as Schneider Bräuhaus München, a traditional Bavarian brewery and restaurant. This restaurant has hearty local dishes and fresh beer. Vapiano serves delicious Italian cuisine in a casual, friendly atmosphere.

Day 2: Celebrate Oktoberfest-

The perfect day at Oktoberfest begins early in the morning, arriving at the Munich tents just as they open to avoid long lines and enjoy a lively atmosphere. Start by exploring one or two of the most famous tents, such as the Hofbräu-Festzelt or Schottenhamel, where you can experience traditional music, lively crowds, and authentic Bavarian hospitality. Be sure to try some classic Oktoberfest foods like pretzels, sausages, and roast chicken, which are served at various food stands and tents. Take breaks to enjoy the festive atmosphere, watch traditional dances, and perhaps wear a dirndl or lederhosen to fully embrace the experience. In the late afternoon, continue the celebration with more music and dancing.

Day 3: Explore Munich-

A day in Munich offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and Bavarian charm. Here’s a suggested itinerary with must-see places:

• Morning:
  • Marienplatz: Start your day at Munich’s central square, famous for the Glockenspiel, which performs daily at 11 a.m. and noon. Enjoy the lively atmosphere, admire the historic Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall), and take in the beautiful architecture.
  • Frauenkirche: Just a short walk away, visit this iconic cathedral with its distinctive twin towers. Climb to the top for a panoramic view of the city.
• Midday:
  • Viktualienmarkt: Head to this bustling outdoor market for a delicious Bavarian lunch. Sample local specialties like sausages, pretzels, and cheeses, and enjoy the vibrant marketplace atmosphere.
  • Residenz Museum: Explore the former royal palace of Bavarian monarchs, filled with stunning rooms, art collections, and historic artifacts.
• Afternoon:
  • English Garden (Englischer Garten): Spend your afternoon relaxing in one of the largest urban parks in the world. Walk or bike through, watch surfers on the Eisbach wave, and enjoy a drink at the Chinese Tower beer garden.
• Evening:
  • Nymphenburg Palace: End your day with a visit to this beautiful baroque palace and its gardens, especially stunning at sunset.
• Optional Night Activity:
  • Experience Munich’s vibrant beer gardens or enjoy traditional Bavarian cuisine at a local restaurant to cap off your perfect day.

Day 4: Day Trip to Neuschwanstein Castle-

A visit to Neuschwanstein offers a magical experience, blending natural beauty with architectural wonder, and provides a glimpse into the whimsical imagination of King Ludwig II. BOOK THE TOUR!

Day 5: Day Trip to Rothenburg-

Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a charming medieval town in Bavaria, Germany, renowned for its well-preserved historic architecture and enchanting atmosphere. Often called a “fairy-tale town,” Rothenburg is famous for its cobblestone streets, ancient city walls, and beautifully preserved half-timbered houses. BOOK THE TOUR

Day 6: Explore Munich-

• Morning:
  • Hofgarten and Residenz Courtyard: Take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful Hofgarten, a tranquil garden behind the Residenz Palace. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and view the historic architecture.
• Midday:
  • Asam Church (Asamkirche): Visit this stunning baroque church, known for its intricate interior decorations and ornate stuccoes. It’s a hidden gem tucked away in the city center.
  • Lunch at a Traditional Bavarian Restaurant: Head to a local spot like Schneider Bräuhaus or Wirtshaus in der Au for hearty Bavarian dishes and a refreshing beer.
• Afternoon:
  • Sendlinger Tor and Old Town Exploration: Walk through the historic Sendlinger Tor Gate and explore the charming streets of Munich’s old town. Discover small shops, cafes, and street performers.
  • Pinakothek Museums (Alte Pinakothek or Neue Pinakothek): Choose one of these renowned art museums to admire masterpieces from European painters, ranging from the Middle Ages to the 19th century.
• Evening:
  • Viktualienmarkt and Beer Garden: Return to Viktualienmarkt for a relaxed dinner, sampling local cheeses, sausages, and fresh bread. End your day at one of the nearby beer gardens, like the Beer Garden at Hacker-Zelt or the Chinese Tower, to enjoy a final drink and soak up Munich’s lively atmosphere.

Day 7: Fly Home-

Fly home from Munich and savor all of the memories and moments that made the trip so special!

This itinerary is exactly how I would spend a week in Munich for Oktoberfest! Have you ever been to Munich? Please comment below about your experience!