Free entry to the Wiesn • Seats require planning

Oktoberfest Tickets & Reservations

Entry to Munich's Oktoberfest is free — but seats in the beer tents are limited. If you want guaranteed steins, food and the best atmosphere, make a table reservation in advance.

🗓 20 Sep – 5 Oct 2025📍 Theresienwiese, Munich🍻 14 large & 21 small tents

Why reservations matter (even though entry is free)

  • No seat, no service: Beer is served at the table. A reservation guarantees your spot during peak sessions.
  • Peak times sell out: Evenings & weekends reach capacity; doors can close when full.
  • Stay together: Groups of 6–10 will struggle to find adjacent seats without a pre-booked table.
  • Food & beer vouchers: Most reservations include prepaid vouchers (typically ~2 Maß + 1/2 roast chicken per person, tent-dependent).
  • Less queuing, more toasting: Spend time celebrating, not waiting.
Note: Each tent manages its own reservations. A reservation is usually for a full table (often 8–10 seats) and includes vouchers. Daytime sessions are easier for walk-ins than evenings.

Fast facts for 2025

  • Dates: 20 September – 5 October 2025
  • Beer price range: €14.50–€15.80 per Maß (1L)
  • Tents: 14 large + 21 small tents (plus Oide Wiesn)
  • Walk-ins: A quota of seats is held unreserved for spontaneous visitors (arrive early, especially weekends).
Official details sourced from the City of Munich/Oktoberfest.de.

How Oktoberfest reservations work

  1. Choose a tent & session: Daytime is calmer; evenings are high-energy and book out first.
  2. Book directly with tents: Each marquee handles its own reservation system and releases limited tables for specific time blocks.
  3. Vouchers: Expect beer/food vouchers included with table bookings. Exact inclusions vary by tent and time.
  4. Confirmation & entry: Bring your confirmation/vouchers and ID. Arrive on time; late arrivals risk forfeiting the table.

Tip: Smaller groups (2–4) can target lunch sessions or share spaces in unreserved areas—arrive early.

Smart booking tips

  • Start early (spring/early summer). Evenings & weekends go first.
  • Be flexible with dates and consider weekday afternoons for easier availability.
  • Avoid unofficial resellers: reservations are issued by tents; third‑party offers are not official and may be refused.
  • Check your voucher terms (seat count, time block, inclusions).
  • Have a plan B: smaller tents or beer gardens if a hall is full.

Know your tents

Hofbräu-Festzelt

International crowd, big party vibes, standing area by the band—iconic atmosphere.

Schottenhamel

Historic: the Lord Mayor taps the first keg here. Classic Wiesn feel, great for first-timers.

Augustiner-Festhalle

Beloved local brewery, wooden barrels in some areas, family-friendly ambience.

Bräurosl (Pschorr)

Lively singalongs; inclusive atmosphere; strong traditions.

Hacker-Festzelt

“Heaven of Bavarians” sky ceiling, great band and crowd energy.

Käfer Wiesn-Schänke

Smaller, chalet-style, late opening—celebrity hotspot with premium food.

There are 14 large and 21 small tents across the fairgrounds, with additional venues on the Oide Wiesn.

Plan your 2025 visit

  • Opening hours: Mornings to late night; last beer typically ~22:30 in big tents; selected venues (e.g., Käfer/Weinzelt) run later.
  • Cash & tipping: Card acceptance is improving, but cash speeds service. Tip your server.
  • Bag rules: Small bags only; expect security checks.
  • Dress: Dirndl/lederhosen encouraged; comfy shoes; bring a light layer for evenings.
  • Transport: U4/U5 to Theresienwiese, or Goetheplatz/Poccistraße to avoid congestion.

Families: quieter times are weekday mornings/afternoons; try the Oide Wiesn for traditional rides and music.

Ready to reserve?

We’ll guide you to suitable tents, time blocks and voucher packages for your group size and dates.

Start your reservation request

No entry tickets are required for Oktoberfest. Reservations are only to guarantee seats.

Oktoberfest FAQs

Is entry to Oktoberfest free?

Yes. The festival grounds and beer tents do not charge admission. Seating is limited—reservations guarantee a table during busy sessions.

Do I need a reservation to drink beer?

Beer is served at tables. Without a seat you may wait a long time or be turned away at peak times. A reservation removes the uncertainty.

How many people per table?

Most tents allocate tables for 8–10 people per time block. Some offer smaller allocations during daytime.

What do reservations include?

Typically prepaid vouchers for beer and food (e.g., 2 × 1L beers and 1/2 roast chicken per person). Inclusions vary by tent and session.

Can I visit without a reservation?

Yes. A quota of seats is kept unreserved in the large tents for walk‑ins, especially daytime. Arrive early; evenings/weekends are toughest.

How much is beer in 2025?

Official range is €14.50–€15.80 per Maß (1L). Bring extra for tip and snacks.

Are third‑party “tickets” legit?

Reservations are issued by the tents themselves. Be cautious of unofficial resellers; the venue may not honor such offers.

What’s the best tent for first‑timers?

Hofbräu (party), Schottenhamel (tradition), Hacker (great atmosphere), Augustiner (locals’ favorite). Your choice depends on vibe and schedule.

Sources: City of Munich / Oktoberfest.de & expert operator insights.