When you’re deciding where to stay in Munich for Oktoberfest, expert local advice can make all the difference—especially if you want to experience the best Oktoberfest the city has to offer. Having attended the beer festival many times, including a recent two-week trip, I know how essential it is to choose the right place to make the most of your time during Munich Oktoberfest. This guide delivers direct, trustworthy recommendations for every type of traveler—whether you want to walk straight home from the beer tents, stay right in the heart of Munich, or find accommodations in Munich that match your travel style for the biggest beer festival in the world.
Best Oktoberfest Hotels 🔥
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Hotel Bayerischer Hof
- ✨ 5-Star: Hotel Königshof, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Munich
- 🏨 4-Star: Hotel Metropol by Maier Privathotels
- 🛏 3-Star: Hotel Brack
- 💸 Cheap: Hotel Cocoon Hauptbahnhof
- 🏢 Apartment: Flatista Homes - Old Town
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Novotel München City Arnulfpark
- 🏩 For Couples: Roomers Munich, Autograph Collection
Quick Overview of the Top Areas 📃
- 🏛️ Historic Heart — Altstadt-Lehel
- 🎉 Festival Center — Theresienwiese
- 🥂 Trendy Nightlife — Glockenbachviertel
- 🌿 Greener Retreats — Nymphenburg
- 🚉 Central Convenience — Ludwigsvorstadt-Isarvorstadt
- 🚇 Smart Budget — Westend
- 🦢 Riverside Relaxation — Haidhausen
- 🍽️ Creative Dining — Schwabing
- 🏞️ Family-Friendly — Neuhausen
- 🏕️ Nature & Camping — Thalkirchen
1. Altstadt-Lehel: Historic & Convenient Stay for Oktoberfest Accommodation
If you’re searching for the ideal place to stay in the city for Oktoberfest with a true taste of Bavarian culture, Altstadt-Lehel is hard to beat. This is Munich’s atmospheric Old Town, where cobblestone streets and grand squares set the scene for your trip to Oktoberfest. In the mornings, the scent of coffee drifts from sidewalk cafés near Marienplatz, the true heart of Munich. One afternoon I found myself relaxing in the shadow of the Residenz, surrounded by centuries of history—proof that Altstadt-Lehel is the ideal place in Munich for those who want to blend culture, history, and easy access to all the festival highlights while you’re at Oktoberfest.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Stroll between Marienplatz and Odeonsplatz to soak up the atmosphere, and don’t miss the Viktualienmarkt for local food and Bavarian snacks. The historic Hofbräuhaus on Platzl square is legendary for its Oktoberfest beer, but for a quieter moment, locals love the hidden Asamkirche on Sendlingerstrasse, a jewel tucked away from the festival bustle. Marienplatz (U-Bahn) is your transit hub—visiting early lets you enjoy the city before the crowds that Oktoberfest brings to Munich every year arrive, and Oktoberfest begins.
Quick Take (Pro & Con):
- Pro: Iconic sights on your doorstep, perfect for morning strolls and exploring the best of Munich’s history.
- Con: Higher prices and crowds—book your Oktoberfest lodging early and target midweek for the best deals.
Best For / Skip If:
Ideal for history lovers and couples seeking an authentic city experience—if you’re after late-night action, Glockenbachviertel offers more energy.
Best Hotels in Altstadt-Lehel
💎 Luxury hotels
- Platzl Hotel - Superior — Bavarian-style rooms by Platzl and Hofbräuhaus, plus a sauna and bar.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Louis Hotel — Stylish rooms above Viktualienmarkt with a noted breakfast and easy walk to Marienplatz.
- Mercure Hotel München Altstadt — Comfortable base steps from Frauenkirche with generous breakfast and quiet rooms.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Hotel Am Markt — Clean, compact rooms right by Viktualienmarkt; friendly staff and solid value.
- Hotel New Orly – Comfortable 4-star stay in Neuhausen-Nymphenburg with easy U-Bahn access and a hearty breakfast, convenient for reaching Theresienwiese.
- Leonardo Hotel Munich City Olympiapark – Modern rooms near Olympiapark with tram links into the center, a practical base for festival days and city sights.
2. Theresienwiese: Festival Center & Ultimate Oktoberfest Experience
If your goal for Oktoberfest is to be close to the action, Theresienwiese is the best place to stay—right next to the festival grounds, so you can walk home after the last stein. There’s an electricity here from opening day, with the hum of the beer tents at Oktoberfest and the distant sound of carnival rides. Last year, I navigated crowds along Matthias-Pschorz-Straße and watched the sun set behind the massive Bavaria statue, surrounded by the best people the beer festival attracts. Staying here means no distance to Oktoberfest—you’re truly at the center of it all, near the Theresienwiese and close to the festival grounds.
The Lay of the Land & Local Advice:
Just steps from the Oktoberfest main entrance, you’ll find the Dokumentation Oktoberfest-Attentat, a small museum reflecting on the city’s layered history. For the best views, climb to the Ruhmeshalle above the tents, or unwind in Bavaria Park’s green corners away from the festival buzz. Locals often slip into the quiet side streets behind Landwehrstraße for a chilled Radler after hours. U-Bahn station is your closest stop; arriving early gives you the best chance to grab a table before the crowds swell. If you want hotels within walking distance of the festival, this is your spot. Oktoberfest is held here every year, and the atmosphere is incredibly lively—especially when Oktoberfest begins.
Quick Take (Pro & Con):
- Pro: You’re right next to the tents, surrounded by the Oktoberfest atmosphere day and night.
- Con: Noise and premium prices—book well in advance for the best Munich hotels near the festival.
Best For / Skip If:
Best for groups who want the full Oktoberfest experience—if you prefer quiet nights, Nymphenburg is a better option.
Best Hotels in Theresienwiese
💎 Luxury hotels
- Hotel Königshof, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Munich — Luxe rooms with fine dining and refined service within sight of the Wiesn.
- Sofitel Munich Bayerpost — Historic-postal-palace setting, indoor pool and spa, a short stroll to the festival.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Hotel Metropol by Maier Privathotels — Modern, quiet rooms near Hauptbahnhof with excellent breakfast and quick access to tents.
- Vi Vadi Hotel Bayer 89 — Contemporary design on Bayerstraße with reliable service and easy tram links.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Hotel Cocoon Hauptbahnhof — Fun alpine vibe, friendly staff, and walkable to Theresienwiese.
- Hotel Brack — Simple, spotless rooms on Lindwurmstraße with quick U-Bahn to the grounds.
3. Glockenbachviertel: Trendy Nightlife & Creative Dining
If you want to experience Munich’s best nightlife while you’re at Oktoberfest, Glockenbachviertel is the place to stay. Music spills from Hans-Sachs-Straße’s bars every evening, and I once spent a Saturday exploring a tiny art gallery off Müllerstraße—proof that this district offers more than just late-night drinks. Expect a lively mix of LGBTQ+ spots, creative hubs, and restaurants that keep the energy high long after the beer festival closes for the night.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Glockenbachviertel puts you in easy reach of Sendlinger-Tor-Platz and local life around Gärtnerplatz, where theaters and pop-up stores add to the vibrant scene. The murals along Pestalozzistraße are favorites for their irreverent local humor. Sendlinger Tor U-Bahn is your main station—from here, it’s about a 20-minute walk to the festival or a short tram ride. For those looking for Munich hotels that balance nightlife and access, this is a top place in Munich to choose the best spot for your trip.
Quick Take (Pro & Con):
- Pro: Best nightlife and restaurant options in Munich during Oktoberfest.
- Con: Can be lively—opt for side street accommodations if you want more peace.
Best For / Skip If:
Great for younger couples, friends, LGBTQ+ travelers—skip if you want classic charm and quiet nights.
Best Hotels in Glockenbachviertel
💎 Luxury hotels
- Roomers Munich, Autograph Collection — Moody design hotel with chic spa and buzzy bar, close to Müllerstraße nightlife.
- CORTIINA Hotel — Design-forward boutique with refined breakfast and easy access to Gärtnerplatz and the river.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- The Flushing Meadows Hotel & Bar — Loft-style rooms and a rooftop bar near Fraunhoferstraße U-Bahn.
- Hotel Drei Löwen — Solid, comfortable option with easy tram links and walkability to the festival.
4. Nymphenburg: Green & Quiet Space Near Munich for Oktoberfest
If you prefer a quieter, greener place to stay during Oktoberfest, Nymphenburg delivers a peaceful escape with quick connections to the city center. Minutes west of Munich, this district is all about sprawling gardens, canals, and a relaxed pace—a welcome contrast to the beer festival frenzy. The scent of chestnut trees lingers at dusk, and I once watched families kayak near the palace, a peaceful moment during a busy Oktoberfest journey.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Start your day with a stroll through Nymphenburg Palace, then enjoy a quiet lunch at Hirschgarten, Munich’s beloved beer garden. Südliches Schlossrondell is a local favorite for evening walks—its tranquil courtyard is a hidden gem. Schloss Nymphenburg and Hirschgarten tram stops make it easy to reach the festival each day. If you’re looking for an option for Oktoberfest accommodation away from the noise, this leafy corner of Munich is one of the best places to stay for a calm visit.
Quick Take (Pro & Con):
- Pro: Calm green retreat with good transit to the festival.
- Con: Not as lively—plan your outings if you want to attend Oktoberfest late into the night.
Best For / Skip If:
Ideal for those seeking a slower pace or traveling as a couple—skip if you want the full Oktoberfest experience right outside your door.
Best Hotels in Nymphenburg
💎 Luxury hotels
- Laimer Hof am Schloss Nymphenburg — Historic villa ambiance near the palace with classic charm and garden feel.
- Park Hotel Laim — Comfortable rooms near Laim with easy tram access to Hirschgarten and the palace.
5. Ludwigsvorstadt-Isarvorstadt: Central Hubs & Best Hotels Map Locations
For those who value convenience above all, Ludwigsvorstadt-Isarvorstadt is a smart base during Oktoberfest. This is where Munich’s main train station, Hauptbahnhof, funnels travelers in and out, and where the streets hum with everything from cafes to quirky bookshops. On a rainy afternoon during my first Oktoberfest, I ducked into Sendlinger Tor to discover a tiny jazz café—a favorite local spot between festival visits and sightseeing.
The Lay of the Land & Insider Knowledge:
Goetheplatz is a quiet corner for book lovers, while a short walk east brings you to the Deutsches Museum, one of the city’s top attractions. Locals swear by the weekend Flea Market on Maillingerstraße for treasure hunting. Hauptbahnhof anchors your transit options, so if you want a hotel near the train station for easy day trips or to be close to both city and festival, this district is a practical choice for Oktoberfest lodging near the Hauptbahnhof.
Quick Take (Pro & Con):
- Pro: Logistics-simple, close to Munich central, great for first-time visitors.
- Con: Can get busy and a bit gritty—book properties with soundproofed rooms for restful nights.
Best For / Skip If:
Great for practical-minded couples, small groups, and bargain hunters—those wanting boutique style should look at Schwabing.
Best Hotels in Ludwigsvorstadt-Isarvorstadt
💎 Luxury hotels
- Hotel Königshof, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Munich — Plush city landmark with refined dining and polished service near Karlsplatz/Stachus.
- CORTIINA Hotel — Sleek boutique appeal with strong breakfast and quick links to Sendlinger Tor and Old Town.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Lizz Hotel Munich — Highly rated, quiet rooms near Goetheplatz with standout service.
- Hotel Metropol by Maier Privathotels — Modern rooms and excellent breakfast a short walk from Hauptbahnhof.
6. Westend: Budget-Friendly Base Within Walking Distance
If you’re looking for a place to stay for Oktoberfest on a budget, Westend is a strong contender, especially if you want to be close to the action without overspending. This neighborhood west of the city center has a creative spirit—Turkish bakeries and coffee stands dot Schwanthalerhöhe, and I once discovered a mosaic-tiled stairway on Trappentreustraße, a local secret that captures the area’s artistic vibe.
On-the-ground Feel & Insider Tips:
Walk Landwehrstraße straight to Theresienwiese for direct festival access. For a local treat, seek out Holzapfelstraße’s indie coffee stand or grab a snack at the Kiosk on Westendstraße after the beer festival closes. Schwanthalerhöhe (U-Bahn) is your main station and puts you just minutes from the tents. If budget accommodation is your priority, this district is one of the best places to stay for a wallet-friendly, creative trip.
Quick Take (Pro & Con):
- Pro: Proximity, affordability, creative spirit.
- Con: Fewer luxuries—plan to spend your days out and about, not in your room.
Best For / Skip If:
Great for travelers on a budget or small groups who want to stay close without splurging—if you want a more polished experience, look to Ludwigsvorstadt-Isarvorstadt.
Best Hotels in Westend
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Jugend- und Familienhotel Augustin — Bright, modern rooms right by Bavariapark with excellent breakfast.
- Bavaria Boutique Hotel — Stylish boutique stay within walking distance of the festival.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- Novo Hotel & Pension — Clean, simple rooms on a quiet street with easy U-Bahn access.
7. Haidhausen: Riverside Local Life & Munich Culture
If you crave a local atmosphere away from the festival buzz, Haidhausen is one of the best places to stay in Munich during Oktoberfest. The Isar’s leafy boulevards and casual cafes come alive in the evenings—Wiener Platz hosts a market where I once sampled fresh pretzels, a peaceful moment after a long day at the beer festival. This district gives you the feel of classic Munich life with easy connections to the city center and Oktoberfest grounds.
Navigating the Neighbourhood & Insider Knowledge:
Wander through the French Quarter for its beautiful Jugendstil facades, then head east to the Gasteig cultural center. The tiny Muffatwerk club, hidden by the river, is a legend for its eclectic concerts—ask locals about upcoming gigs. Rosenheimer Platz (S-Bahn) is your main station; mornings here are especially scenic, with relaxed riverbank strolls before heading to the festival. Whether you want budget accommodation or something more stylish, living here lets you experience Munich’s river culture while staying connected to the city’s heart.
Quick Take (Pro & Con):
- Pro: Genuine local character, away from the intensity of the festival.
- Con: Not as central—plan to use public transport or rent a bike for trips to the festival pavilions each day.
Best For / Skip If:
Great for couples or anyone seeking a quieter riverside experience—if you want to be close to the festival all hours, Theresienwiese is a better fit.
Best Hotels in Haidhausen
💎 Luxury hotels
- Novotel München City — Modern stay with pool and sauna close to Gasteig and riverside paths.
- Courtyard by Marriott Munich City East — Practical pick with quiet rooms and fast transit into the center.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Motel One München–Deutsches Museum — Chic lobby bar design and easy S-Bahn links from Rosenheimer Platz.
- Holiday Inn Munich – City Centre — Direct S-Bahn access and spacious rooms beside the Isar.
8. Schwabing: Creative Dining, Arts, and Urban Strolls
If your ideal Oktoberfest journey includes great food, galleries, and a relaxed city vibe, Schwabing is a standout place in Munich to base yourself. This northern district buzzes with creative energy—the scent of spiced currywurst drifts from the market at Münchner Freiheit, and I once lost an hour browsing vinyl records in a shop off Hohenzollernstraße, proof there’s more to see here than just the beer festival.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Don’t miss Englischer Garten’s quieter southern pastures for people-watching and classic beer garden fare. Locals love the rainbow-hued mural at Leopoldstraße’s underpass, a perfect spot for photos. Münchner Freiheit (U-Bahn) is your central station; the middle of the day is best for fewer crowds, and tram links make it easy to reach the city center and the festival. If you’re going to Oktoberfest and want a mix of culture, comfort, and creative dining, Schwabing is the best place to stay for a different kind of Munich experience.
Quick Take (Pro & Con):
- Pro: Artsy spirit, varied dining, and a relaxed city vibe a short tram ride from the festival.
- Con: Not as walkable to the festival grounds—if you want to be closer to the action every day, look elsewhere.
Best For / Skip If:
Best for those seeking more than just the beer festival—skip if proximity to the festival trumps all other needs.
Best Hotels in Schwabing
💎 Luxury hotels
- Andaz Munich Schwabinger Tor — Five-star flair with rooftop pool and sweeping city views on Leopoldstraße.
- Hilton Munich Park — Leafy setting by the Eisbach with balconies and access to Englischer Garten.
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Motel One München–Parkstadt Schwabing — Design-led, good-value base with efficient transport.
- Hampton by Hilton Munich City North — Modern rooms and solid breakfast near tram lines.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- ibis München City Nord — Reliable budget choice with easy U-Bahn to the center.
9. Neuhausen: Family Parklands & Kid-Friendly Atmosphere
If you’re traveling as a family or simply want a relaxed, green place to stay during Oktoberfest, Neuhausen is the best place to stay in the city for a calm retreat. Playgrounds and local bakeries fill the air with laughter and the smell of fresh pastries at dawn, and my favorite memory here is spotting wild ducks with my niece along the canal at Rotkreuzplatz—proof that family fun is easy to find, even when Oktoberfest is also drawing crowds to the city.
The Lay of the Land & Insider Knowledge:
Feed the ducks at Hirschgarten, browse the weekend market on Blutenburgstraße, and catch a puppet show at the tiny Brotzeitbühne—a local favorite for families. The modest Eisdiele on Nymphenburger Straße is the go-to for homemade ice cream. Rotkreuzplatz (U-Bahn) is your main connection; afternoons are especially pleasant for quiet walks after a morning spent at the festival. If you’re planning an Oktoberfest journey with children or just want a peaceful base, Neuhausen stands out among the best options in Munich.
Quick Take (Pro & Con):
- Pro: Kid-friendly, easy access to parks and bakeries, and a calmer rhythm than the city center.
- Con: Less nightlife and fewer direct festival links—use transit for stress-free trips to the festival grounds.
Best For / Skip If:
Ideal for families and those seeking a slower pace—if you want to be in the center of the Oktoberfest action after hours, look elsewhere.
Best Hotels in Neuhausen
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- MEININGER Hotel München City Center — Budget-friendly family rooms and guest kitchen, near Hirschgarten.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- a&o München Hackerbrücke — Simple, affordable base with rooftop views and easy tram access.
10. Thalkirchen: Nature, Oktoberfest Camping, and Easy Escape
If you want to experience the best Munich Oktoberfest camping and enjoy a real nature escape, Thalkirchen is the ideal option for your trip. South of the city, this district offers green meadows, riverside paths, and classic camping just steps from the Isar. On a quiet Sunday, I paddled out from the Zoo area—soaking up the scenery while the rest of Munich celebrated in the beer pavilions, a different kind of Oktoberfest experience.
Atmosphere & A Pro Tip:
Walk the Isar trail to the Zoo, browse the charming Flohmarkt at Zentralländstraße, and try the legendary Fischbraterei for authentic Bavarian grilled fish—a local favorite. U-Bahn: Thalkirchen (Tierpark). If you’re planning an Oktoberfest trip and want to camp, book early—spaces at Campingplatz Thalkirchen fill up fast as this is one of the best places to stay for a true outdoor Oktoberfest trip.
Quick Take (Pro & Con):
- Pro: Nature, fresh air, and the best Munich Oktoberfest camping for a unique getaway.
- Con: Fewer hotel comforts—pack accordingly and expect a different kind of adventure.
Best For / Skip If:
Great for couples, groups, and outdoorsy travelers—if comfort and luxury are priorities, look to Ludwigsvorstadt-Isarvorstadt.
Best Hotels in Thalkirchen
⭐ Best Value Hotels
- Gambino Hotel Werksviertel (South link alternative) — Smart, modern rooms with good value and S-Bahn access toward the Isar trails.
💶 Smart Budget Hotels
- GS Hotel Munich — Clean, quiet pick with straightforward U-Bahn to Thalkirchen (Tierpark).
FAQ
What is the best area in Oktoberfest for first-time visitors?
Theresienwiese is the best place to stay if you want to be right at the heart of the Oktoberfest experience—close to the beer halls, the action, and the best people who make the beer festival what it is. If you’re looking for hotels near Oktoberfest, this neighborhood puts you within easy walking distance of the festival grounds and all the excitement around Oktoberfest.
How can you best explore Oktoberfest’s historic center in Munich?
Stay in Altstadt-Lehel to be steps from the historic heart of Munich, with easy access to Marienplatz, Viktualienmarkt, and the Hofbräuhaus. Early morning visits let you enjoy the city before the Oktoberfest crowds arrive and the festival closes at night, and nearby hotels in Munich offer everything from luxury stays to budget-friendly hostels.
Where should you stay in Munich for access to the riverfront and local coffee spots?
Haidhausen is the best place to stay if you want leafy river walks and cozy cafes, with easy transit to the festival and the city center. For a creative, central vibe, Glockenbachviertel is also a solid choice if you want to be close to the festival but still enjoy local neighborhoods.
How many days do you need in Munich to see Oktoberfest and city highlights?
Plan at least three days—two to enjoy the beer tents at Oktoberfest and one for exploring the sights in Munich. With four days, you’ll have more time to soak in both the festival and the city’s culture, or even take a guided Oktoberfest tour if you want insider insights.
What is the best way to get around Munich during Oktoberfest?
Rely on Munich’s smooth public transit—U-Bahn, trams, and S-Bahn—especially since taxis and rideshares can be slow and pricey when the festival is on. Walking between central areas is often quickest for short distances, and accommodation near the Hauptbahnhof offers excellent transport connections.
Which area in Oktoberfest Munich is best for families with young children?
Neuhausen is the greatest place to stay for families, thanks to its parks, playgrounds, and relaxed local cafés—great for kids, with easy transport into the city and to the festival, whether you’re looking for hotels or hostels.
How easy is parking in different areas of Munich for Oktoberfest?
Parking is challenging close to the festival grounds—so if you want to avoid the hassle, opt for Nymphenburg, Neuhausen, or Thalkirchen where parking is easier, and always check your accommodation details in advance.
Can I book an Oktoberfest package?
Yes, many travel companies offer Oktoberfest packages that include hotels, tent reservations, and even guided tours—book your Oktoberfest package early, especially if you want the best tables or a seamless trip to Oktoberfest.
What’s the best way to experience Oktoberfest without breaking the bank?
Look for hotels and hostels a short tram ride from Theresienwiese, or consider Oktoberfest camping east of Munich for a budget-friendly adventure. You’ll still be close to the action, but with savings for more steins inside the beer tents.
Is it possible to find a list of hotels near Oktoberfest?
Absolutely—booking platforms offer a full list of hotels for Oktoberfest, including hotels around Theresienwiese, Munich’s main station (hauptbahnhof), and even near the Deutsches Museum. Filter by budget, distance to Oktoberfest, and amenities to find your perfect stay.
What are some good accommodations for solo travelers or groups during Oktoberfest?
There’s plenty of options, from hostels in Neuhausen to apartments in Ludwigsvorstadt-Isarvorstadt. If you’re traveling solo, hostels are a great way to meet fellow festival-goers, while groups might prefer apartments or hotels that make it easy to explore the city and enjoy the Oktoberfest atmosphere together.
Does Oktoberfest close early, and how do locals plan their time in Munich?
Oktoberfest is always lively, but some tents close by midnight, while others stay open later. Locals recommend planning your time in Munich to include both festival fun and quieter moments—early mornings and weekdays are best for avoiding the biggest crowds.
Are there Oktoberfest tents and experiences that feel like Oktoberfest but are less crowded?
Yes, some smaller tents and beer gardens outside the main grounds offer a similar vibe. Stoke Travel Oktoberfest is one option for a more social, alternative experience. For a classic but less overwhelming Oktoberfest experience, consider visiting a local beer garden such as Hirschgarten or a quieter district like Nymphenburg.
