Wondering Where to stay in Munich for Oktoberfest? Which neighborhoods? In this post, I will help you to find the best areas to stay in Munich for Oktoberfest and best hotels in Munich for all budgets.
Oktoberfest in Munich is one of the world’s most famous and largest beer festivals, held annually in Munich, Bavaria, Germany. It typically takes place from late September to the first weekend in October, lasting around 16 to 18 days. While the event is called Oktoberfest, a significant portion of the festival actually occurs in September.
The festival originated in 1810 as a celebration of the marriage between Crown Prince Ludwig (later King Ludwig I) and Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen. The citizens of Munich were invited to join the festivities held in front of the city gates, which eventually became an annual tradition.
Oktoberfest takes place at the Theresienwiese, often referred to as Wiesn by the locals. It is a large open space located just a short walk southwest of Munich’s city center (around 25 minutes to walk from Marienplatz).
The heart of Oktoberfest lies in the beer tents, where various breweries from Munich and the surrounding region set up large, festive structures. Each tent has its unique atmosphere and serves its own brand of beer, typically brewed according to the German Purity Law.
The main beer served at Oktoberfest is the traditional Märzen beer, also known as Oktoberfestbier. It is a full-bodied, amber-colored lager with a higher alcohol content than regular beers.
Alongside the beer, traditional Bavarian food is an essential part of the Oktoberfest experience. Popular dishes include pretzels, roasted chicken (Hendl), pork knuckles, sausages, sauerkraut, and a variety of delicious desserts.
Besides the beer tents, the festival grounds feature amusement park rides, games, and various attractions to entertain visitors of all ages.
Many locals and visitors alike wear traditional Bavarian clothing during Oktoberfest, which adds to the festive atmosphere. For men, it’s the Lederhosen, and for women, it’s the Dirndl.
Oktoberfest attracts millions of visitors from around the world each year, making it one of the most significant international events in Germany.
While the festival is known for its lively beer halls, certain days are designated as family days with reduced noise levels and special offers for families and children.
If you plan to attend Oktoberfest in Munich, it’s advisable to book accommodation well in advance due to the high demand during the festival period. Additionally, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with German customs and etiquette, especially when it comes to drinking beer and respecting the local culture.
Oktoberfest is located at Theresienwiese, which is a large open space in the neighborhood of Ludwigsvorstadt-Isarvorstadt. It is easily accessible by public transportation and is within 10 to 15 minutes walk from the central train station (Hauptbahnhof).
Where to stay in Munich for Oktoberfest?
The best areas to stay in Munich for Oktoberfest are Ludwigsvorstadt-Isarvorstadt, Odeonsplatz, Lehel, Marienplatz, Universität, Sendlinger Tor, Münchner Freiheit, and Olympiazentrum.
They are all centrally located around the U3, U4, U5, and U6 U-Bahn Lines, offering easiest access to the festival.
Ludwigsvorstadt-Isarvorstadt is the overall best area to stay in Munich for Oktoberfest because it is the location of the festival. Staying here allows you to be located within easy walking distance to the Oktoberfest without worrying about public transportation.
If the accommodations in Ludwigsvorstadt-Isarvorstadt is fully booked (due to its prime location), you can consider other neighborhoods in Munich City Center such as Odeonsplatz, Lehel, Marienplatz, Universität, Sendlinger Tor, Münchner Freiheit, and Olympiazentrum.
Keep in mind that accommodations in Munich, especially during Oktoberfest, can fill up quickly, so it’s advisable to book your stay well in advance. Additionally, prices may be higher during the festival period, so plan and budget accordingly.
If you can’t find a place within walking distance, don’t worry; Munich has an excellent public transportation system that can take you to and from the festival grounds easily.
Map of areas and neighborhoods in Munich for Oktoberfest:
What is the closest train station to Oktoberfest?
Munich has an excellent public transport system, which includes buses, trams, and trains operated by MVV. The U-Bahn (underground metro/subway) and S-Bahn (urban trains) are particularly useful for getting to and from the festival grounds.
The closest U-Bahn stations to Oktoberfest are Theresienwiese station (the main entrance to Oktoberfest but always crowded) on U4 and U5 trains , as well as Goetheplatz and Poccistraße stations on U3/U6 trains, and Schwanthalerhöhe station on U4/U5 trains.
The closest S-Bahn stations to Oktoberfest are Hackerbrücke and Hauptbahnhof stations, which is around 10 to 15 minutes walk to the entrance of Oktoberfest. Hackerbrücke Station is closer, and is a few minute train ride from Hauptbahnhof, Marienplatz, and Ostbahnhof.
The closest tram stops are at Holzapfelstraße or Hermann-Lingg-Straße. Additionally, there are also many bus stops nearby, but U-Bahn is the most common and easy way to get to the Oktoberfest if you stay in the city center.
Make sure to purchase a valid ticket before boarding any public transport. MVV offers various ticket options, including single-trip tickets, day passes, and group tickets. Remember that ticket inspectors are common, and fines for traveling without a ticket can be steep.
You can buy tickets at MVV ticket machines or the MVG Fahrinfo München app, which provides real-time information on schedules, routes, and ticket options. Being able to buy tickets online in seconds saves time and helps avoid long queues at ticket counters.
During Oktoberfest, public transport can get very crowded, especially during peak times (late afternoon and evening). Be prepared for packed trains and buses and try to be patient and respectful of others.
Unfortunately, large gatherings like Oktoberfest can attract pickpockets. Keep an eye on your belongings while using public transport and in crowded areas.
8 Best areas to stay in Munich for Oktoberfest are:
1. Ludwigsvorstadt-Isarvorstadt – best overall area for Oktoberfest
Ludwigsvorstadt-Isarvorstadt is the overall best area to stay in Munich for Oktoberfest due to its prime location, home to the Theresienwiese, where Oktoberfest takes place. Staying here allows you to easily access the ground on foot without having to worry about long commutes or transportation hassles.
Ludwigsvorstadt-Isarvorstadt is one of the most vibrant and diverse areas of the city. The district is named after two historical parts: Ludwigsvorstadt, which was named after King Ludwig I, and Isarvorstadt, named after the river Isar, which flows nearby.
In addition to the Oktoberfest, the neighborhood is home to numerous other attractions such as the St. Paul’s Church, Deutsches Museum, Gärtnerplatz, which is a lively square dominated by the grand Staatstheater am Gärtnerplatztheate.
The district is situated close to the beautiful Isar River, which provides a natural escape for residents and visitors, offering opportunities for walking, cycling, and picnicking.
Ludwigsvorstadt-Isarvorstadt is well-known for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and entertainment venues that cater to various tastes and preferences. It is home to Glockenbachviertel, which is the center of Munich’s LGBTQ and party scene.
Since it’s a popular area during Oktoberfest, accommodation prices tend to be higher than at other times of the year. Plus, finding available hotels during Oktoberfest can be challenging, especially if you wait until the last minute. Booking early is essential to secure better deals.
The area can get crowded and noisy, especially during the festival’s peak times. If you prefer a quieter stay, you might want to consider other neighborhoods.
If you’re planning to rent a car during your stay, be aware that parking can be difficult to find in this area during Oktoberfest. It is best to travel by public transport as it is very well-connected to U-Bahn, S-Bahn, tram, and bus.
Overall, Ludwigsvorstadt-Isarvorstadt is a great base in Munich for Oktoberfest. Staying here provides an easy walk to the festival grounds, which is a significant advantage considering how crowded public transportation can get during the event.
Best places to stay in Ludwigsvorstadt-Isarvorstadt for Oktoberfest:
- Luxury ($$$): Roomers Munich, Autograph Collection, 5-star hotel, located 16-minute walk from Oktoberfest, also close to Karlsplatz (Stachus) and Sendlinger Tor.
- Mid-range ($$): Hotel München City Center affiliated by Meliá, 4-star located within easy walk from Munich’s main train station, Theresienwiese Underground Station, and the Oktoberfest site.
- Budget ($): Boutique Hotel Krone München, great accommodation, located within a short distance from the Oktoberfest venue at Theresienwiese, Lenbachhaus, Königsplatz, and Glyptothek.
- Budget ($): Bold Hotel München Zentrum, located in Ludwigsvorstadt district, 5-minute walk from the Oktoberfest venue, Poccistraße Underground Station, offering links to Munich Town Hall in Marienplatz Square on the U3 and U6 lines.
2. Odeonsplatz – easy access to the U4/U5/U3/U6 U-Bahn Lines
Odeonsplatz is a famous square located in the heart of Munich Old Town (Altstadt Lehel). Staying here not only offers easy access to Oktoberfest on U-Bahn Lines but also to the major attractions like the Residenz Palace, Theatine Church, Court Garden, and Marienplatz.
Odeonsplatz holds historical significance and is one of the city’s most prominent and picturesque squares. It is situated between the bustling shopping street of Ludwigstrasse and the vast open space of the Hofgarten (Court Garden).
On the southern side of Odeonsplatz lies the Feldherrnhalle, a distinctive Renaissance-style loggia, built in the 19th century in honor of the Bavarian Army. It was the site of the infamous confrontation between the Bavarian police and the Nazis during the Beer Hall Putsch in 1923.
Odeonsplatz itself serves as a historical landmark, and its open space is often used for public events, gatherings, and cultural festivals.
The square is surrounded by numerous cafés, restaurants, and shops, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists to enjoy a meal or a coffee while admiring the vibrant atmosphere.
The Odeonsplatz area in Altstadt Lehel is often considered one of the best places to stay in Munich for tourists, especially for first-timers due to its central location and excellent connections to public transportations.
Best places to stay in Odeonsplatz for Oktoberfest:
- Luxury ($$$): Hotel Bayerischer Hof, a historic 5-star hotel, located directly in Munich’s fashionable shopping district, home to the 2-Michelin-star Atelier Restaurant. Easy walk from Odeonsplatz and Marienplatz underground station, Bavarian State Opera, and Hofbräuhaus Beer Hall.
- Mid-range ($$): Unsöld’s Factory Hotel, 4-star hotel, located in Altstadt-Lehel, close to Deutsches Museum, New Town Hall and Mariensäule. Easy access to Odeonsplatz and Lehel underground stations for trains to Oktoberfest.
- Budget ($): Hotel Antares, great hotel, located in a quiet side street in the Maxvorstadt/Schwabing district, close to English Garden and Pinakothek museums. Within walking distance to Odeonsplatz and Universität metro station for trains to Oktoberfest.
3. Lehel – easy access to U4/U5 U-Bahn Lines
Lehel is one of the best bases in Munich city center with easy access to U4 and U5 trains to Oktoberfest. It is conveniently located in the heart of the city, close to major attractions, river Isar, the old town, and the English Garden.
Lehel is known for its charming streets, historic buildings, and green spaces, making it a popular choice for both locals and expatriates. The district is well-connected to public transportation, including buses, trams, and the U-Bahn (subway).
Within Lehel, you can find various amenities, such as shops, restaurants, cafes, and galleries, which add to its appeal. The Englischer Garten, one of the largest urban parks in the world, is nearby and offers a fantastic place for relaxation, and even surfing at Eisbachwelle.
There are plenty of museums and art galleries to explore including the family-friendly Museum Five Continent on Maximilianstrasse, Alpine Museum on Prater Island, the Haus der Kunst on Prinzregentenstraße, the Bavarian National Museum, and the Sammlung Schack.
Best places to stay in Munich in Lehel for Oktoberfest:
- Luxury ($$$): Hotel Opera, 4-star hotel, located in a quiet part of Munich city center, 10 minute walk from the famous Marienplatz Square, Hofbräuhaus Beer Hall, while Lehel Underground Station is just 200 m away.
- Mid-range ($$): Hotel ADRIA München, 3-star hotel, located in Lehel district, a 4-minute walk from the English Garden and Lehel Underground Station, offering links to the Oktoberfest venue.
- Budget ($): Boutique Hotel Splendid, conveniently located within easy walk from Lehel underground station with connections to the Theresienwiese.
4. Marienplatz – easy access to U3/U6 U-Bahn Lines
Marienplatz is one of the areas to stay in Munich for first-time visitors and those seeking easy access to other parts of the city, including the airport and Oktoberfest site.
Marienplatz is a famous square located in the heart of Altstadt Lehel borough. It is one of the city’s central gathering points and a major tourist attraction.
Marienplatz serves as a central transportation hub in Munich. It is well-connected by public transportation, including the U-Bahn (subway) and S-Bahn (commuter train) lines, making it easy to access other parts of the city.
Here are some key features and attractions around Marienplatz:
- The New Town Hall, a neo-gothic building with a distinctive Glockenspiel clock tower.
- The Altes Rathaus, or Old Town Hall, houses the Toy Museum, showcasing antique toys and artifacts.
- St. Peter’s Church (Peterskirche), Munich’s oldest parish church, and its tower offers a breathtaking view of the city. The tower can be climbed for a small fee.
- Marian Column, a tall column in the center of Marienplatz, erected in 1638 to celebrate the end of the Swedish occupation during the Thirty Years’ War.
Marienplatz is surrounded by numerous shops, boutiques, cafes, and restaurants, making it a bustling area where visitors can shop for souvenirs or enjoy a meal while people-watching.
The square often hosts various events and festivals, including Christmas markets and cultural celebrations.
Visiting Marienplatz is a must if you’re in Munich, as it offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and vibrant city life.
Best places to stay in Munich in Marienplatz for Oktoberfest:
- Luxury ($$$): Platzl Hotel – Superior, 4-star hotel centrally located in the Old Town. It is a 2-minute walk from the Marienplatz Square, Hofbräuhaus Brewery, Viktualienmarkt Market, and Bavarian State Opera. Marienplatz Station offers easy access to Oktoberfest by U-bahn train, Munich Central Station and Munich Airport by S-Bahn train.
- Mid-range ($$): BEYOND by Geisel – Adults only , great residence in front of Munich Town Hall. Easy walk to the metro station, with direct connections to the Munich Airport and Oktoberfest.
- Budget ($): Hotel Schlicker, Family-run hotel, located an easy distance from Marienplatz and the Viktualienmarkt Market. Marienplatz Underground Station nearby provides connections to Oktoberfest, Munich Messe Exhibition Centre, and Munich Airport.
5. Universität – easy access to U3/U6 U-Bahn Lines
The Universität area refers to the vicinity surrounding Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the country.
The university is located in Maxvorstadt, a university and arts district of Munich. The surrounding area is known for its vibrant atmosphere, historical landmarks, and cultural offerings.
Geschwister-Scholl-Platz is the central square named after the Scholl siblings, who were prominent members of the White Rose resistance group during World War II. It’s a popular meeting point for students and locals and often hosts events and gatherings.
It also offers easy access to the English Garden, with walking trails, and even a man-made river surf spot called the Eisbachwelle.
There are numerous cultural institutions, including museums, galleries, and theaters. For instance, the Museum Brandhorst and the State Collection of Antiquities are popular destinations for art and history enthusiasts.
As a university hub, the Universität area is alive with student life. There are plenty of cafes, bars, and restaurants catering to the student population, making it a dynamic and youthful neighborhood.
The Universität area has excellent public transportation connections, with U-Bahn (subway) and tram lines passing through the area, providing easy access to the rest of the city, including the Oktoberfest site.
Overall, the Universität area in Munich is a vibrant and dynamic neighborhood that combines academic excellence, cultural richness, and a youthful energy, making it an exciting place to stay, study, or visit.
Best places to stay in Munich in Lehel for Oktoberfest:
- Mid-range ($$): Hotel Hauser an der Universität, family-run hotel, located opposite Munich University, a short walk from Englischer Garten Park, and Universität Underground Station, providing fast connections to all parts of Munich including the Oktoberfest.
- Mid-range ($$): Schwabinger Wahrheit by Geisel, located in central Munich offers soundproof rooms, easy access to Münchner Freiheit Underground Station for trains to Munich Central Station and the Theresienwiese Oktoberfest Site.
- Budget ($): Hotel-Pension am Siegestor, located near Alte Pinakothek, Pinakothek der Moderne, and Bavarian National Museum. Universität underground station is a short walk from the metro to Oktoberfest ground.
6. Sendlinger Tor – easy access to U3/U6 U-Bahn Lines
The neighborhoods around Sendlinger Tor are a great base for the Oktoberfest because it is located within walking distance and a short train ride to the site of the festival. You can find affordable accommodation options here compared to the Old Town.
Sendlinger Tor is a famous landmark situated at the southern end of Sendlinger Straße, a major shopping street, and is one of the main entrances to Munich’s old town. The gate is a popular meeting point for both locals and tourists.
It is a historic city gate that once formed part of the medieval fortifications surrounding the old town. The name “Sendlinger Tor” translates to “Sendling Gate” in English, as it leads to the district of Sendling.
Sendling is located southwest of the city center and is known for its residential charm, green spaces, and local amenities. It’s a more tranquil and relaxed neighborhood with a mix of residential buildings, shops, cafes, and restaurants, providing a comfortable living experience.
Some other factors that make Sendling attractive to residents and visitors are good public transportation connections, affordable accommodation options, and proximity to parks like Westpark and Flaucher along the Isar River.
Best places to stay in Munich in Sendlinger Tor for Oktoberfest:
- Mid-range ($$): Hotel MIO by AMANO, 3-star accommodation, near Asamkirche and Karlsplatz (Stachus, and Sendlinger Tor. It is located 20 minutes walk to the Oktoberfest site, or a short metro ride from the underground station Sendlinger Tor to Goetheplatz (U3 / U6).
- Mid-range ($$): myMINGA4 – Hotel & serviced Apartments, great lodging, located 15 minute walking distance from the venue of the Oktoberfest, you can also take the U-bahn from a nearby station. It is also near Asamkirche, Marienplatz, and Karlsplatz (Stachus).
- Budget ($): Hotel Altmünchen by Blattl, centrally located close to Marienplatz, Karlsplatz (Stachus) and Frauenkirche. You can walk to the Oktoberfest venue or use the metro at Sendlinger Tor underground station.
7. Münchner Freiheit – easy access to U3/U6 U-Bahn Lines
Münchner Freiheit is located in the district of Schwabing and is known for being a bustling square and a transportation hub. The name “Münchner Freiheit” translates to “Munich Freedom” in English.
The area around Münchner Freiheit is characterized by its lively atmosphere, with numerous cafes, bars, restaurants, and shops. It is a popular meeting point for locals and visitors alike, especially during the warmer months when people enjoy sitting outside and socializing.
Münchner Freiheit is also an essential transportation interchange in Munich. It is served by the U-Bahn (subway) lines U3 and U6, making it easy to reach from various parts of the city, including the Oktoberfest.
Additionally, several tram and bus lines pass through this square, ensuring excellent connectivity to other parts of Munich.
In the vicinity of Münchner Freiheit, you can find attractions such as the English Garden (Englischer Garten), one of the largest urban parks in the world, and the Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, one of Germany’s leading universities.
Overall, Münchner Freiheit is a cool and budget-friendly place to stay in Munich for Oktoberfest due to its affordable accommodation options and well-connected public transportation, making it a great base for the festival and sightseeing.
Best places to stay in Münchner Freiheit for Oktoberfest:
- Budget ($): Gästehaus der Katholischen Akademie in Bayern, great location in central Munich, next to the huge English Garden, easy access to Oktoberfest by taking metro from Münchner Freiheit underground station nearby.
- Budget ($): Das Nikolai Hotel, great boutique hotel, a 5-minute walk from the English Garden, Münchner Freiheit and Giselastraße underground stops, for links to Oktoberfest.
- Budget ($): La Mansion Vi Vadi Hotel, is an ideal base for exploring the Schwabing district and the city center. It also offers easy access to other parts of the city and the Oktoberfest with the Münchner Freiheit Underground Station nearby.
8. Olympiazentrum – easy access to U3/U6 U-Bahn Lines
The Olympiazentrum (Olympic Park) is an iconic sports and recreation complex that was constructed for the 1972 Summer Olympics. It is located in the northern part of Munich and covers an area of about 850 acres.
Olympiazentrum is one of the great bases in Munich for Oktoberfest. There are numerous metro stations around the park on U3 and U6 U-Bahn lines, which direct links to the famous festival.
Key features of the Olympiazentrum Munich include:
Olympic Stadium, was the centerpiece of the complex and served as the venue for the opening and closing ceremonies, as well as various athletic events during the 1972 Olympics.
Olympic Hall multi-purpose indoor arena hosted events like gymnastics, handball, and basketball during the 1972 Olympics.
Olympic Tower offers panoramic views of Munich and the surrounding areas. Visitors can take an elevator to the top for a breathtaking view of the city.
Olympic Swim Hall includes a pool complex used for various aquatic events and competitions.
Olympic Village served as the accommodation for athletes during the 1972 Games. After the Olympics, the village was converted into residential apartments and is still in use today.
Olympic Lake, a beautiful artificial lake known as Olympiasee, which offers recreational opportunities such as swimming and boating.
Over the years, the Olympiazentrum has evolved into a popular recreational area for locals and tourists alike. The unique architectural design and the scenic setting make it a significant landmark in Munich’s cityscape.
Best places to stay in Munich in Olympiazentrum for Oktoberfest:
- Mid-range ($$): H2 Hotel München Olympiapark, great location, right next to the U-Bahn Station, and Olympia Park. Oberwiesenfeld underground station offers line U3 to Oktoberfest ground.
- Budget ($): Leonardo Royal Hotel Munich, Located beside the Olympiapark Park, this 4-star superior hotel offers easy underground connections to Munich city center and Oktoberfest.
- Budget ($): THE FLAG München M., Located close to Olympia-Einkaufszentrum subway station, offering links to the city center and Oktoberfest venue.
See more:
- Where to Stay in Munich First Time
- Where to Stay in Munich for Christmas Markets
- 28 Best things to do in Munich
In conclusion, Ludwigsvorstadt-Isarvorstadt, Odeonsplatz, Lehel, Marienplatz, Universität, Sendlinger Tor, Münchner Freiheit, and Olympiazentrum are the best places to stay in Munich for Oktoberfest. Ludwigsvorstadt-Isarvorstadt is the best overall base due to its prime location, home to the festival ground.
Other neighborhoods are also centrally located and well-connected to public transportation, both on trains, trams, and buses, offering easiest access to the Oktoberfest. No matter where you stay, Munich’s rich culture and Oktoberfest’s festivities promise an unforgettable experience.