Oktoberfest is the world's largest fair and one of the best festivals in Germany. Every year, over 6 million visitors from all over the world come to Munich to drink beer, eat sausage and join together in song. Oktoberfest is famous for its huge beers in heavy steins, but there is more; link arms with locals, swing to the Oompha of Bavarian bands, admire traditional costumes, and get a good helping of German hospitality.
This guide will help make the most out of your Oktoberfest; just click on the links and start celebrating. Have you been to Oktoberfest before, or are you there this year? Share your best photos here!
1. Oktoberfest Dates and Opening Hours
GNTB/Rainer Kiedrowski
Know when to go: Find out when Oktoberfest takes place in Germany in 2013 and beyond, and learn about the opening hours of Oktoberfest beer halls and rides.
2. Oktoberfest - Getting There
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Cab, car, train or subway? Here are the best ways to get to Theresienwiese, the traditional venue of Munich's Oktoberfest.
3. Oktoberfest Tips and Suggestions
GNTB/Rainer Kiedrowski
Can I take children to Oktoberfest? Should I reserve a table in an Oktoberfest beer hall? How much do I have to shell out for Oktoberfest beer?
Find the answers here, and get helpful tips and information for your Oktoberfest visit.
4. Oktoberfest Beer Tents
FVAmuc,Wilfried Hösl
There are over 30 beer tents at Oktoberfest -so which one to go to? Let's find out which Oktoberfest tent is a good choice for you, whether you are bringing the kids, want to spot celebrities, or listen to the best brass bands.
5. How to Reserve a Table in a Beer Tent
Do you want to make a reservation in an Oktoberfest beer tent? Check out our step-by-step guide on when and how to to do it.
6. Oktoberfest Events and Highlights
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Oktoberfest is more than drinking beer and eating sausage - the festival is a colorful celebration of Bavarian culture and tradition. Here are the the best Oktoberfest events that you should not miss.
7. Get Your Oktoberfest Outfit
Andrew Amondson
Want to celebrate Oktoberfest in style? Then get yourself a traditional Bavarian costume; here are the best shops in Munich to find a Dirndl or a pair of Lederhosen.
8. Hotels Near Oktoberfest
Dave Morris
9. Oktoberfest Survival Tips From Our Readers
Find out what other Germany travelers have to say about Oktoberfest; read helpful insider tips and post your own suggestion on how to have a great Oktoberfest.
10. Munich City Guide
Bastian Stein
Start planning your visit to Oktoberfest with this helpful Munich city profile; get information about Munich hotels, restaurants and shopping, and learn about Munich's airport, main train station, and day trips in Bavaria.
