Ladies, are you planning to attend Oktoberfest, in Munich, Germany?
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Oktoberfest is a great opportunity to meet new friends from around the world or on vacation with girlfriends. It’s also a great way to get to know German culture.
Here’s what you need to know. As someone who’s been over 20 times – I live in Munich. I’ve learned from experience.
5 Things Women Need to Know About Oktoberfest
1) Wear a Dirndl:
It’s not required but is a lot of fun. If you live in Munich or plan to attend Oktoberfest multiple times, it’s worth it to buy a real Dirndl. It will set you back at least €200 or more, but you’ll have it forever.
What’s a Dirndl?
Women who attend Oktoberfest in Germany wear traditional dirndls (a type of dress) and drink beer at the festival. The tradition dates back hundreds of years.
Today, many women still wear dirndls, especially during the annual Munich Oktoberfest Festival. German dirndls come in different styles, including short, knee-length, long, and full-length. They’re usually made of cotton, wool, silk, leather, or velvet.
Although it’s possible to buy your Dirndl once you’re in Munich, you can also avoid the hassle by bringing one with you. If you do decide to buy one in Munich, I recommend Angermeier. They’re known for their quality traditional dirndls and have two locations.
If Oktoberfest is a once-in-a-lifetime thing for you, buy one of the costumey Dirndls. It will cost you less than €50 and can be purchased online.
Alternatively, you’ll find a variety of stores around Marienplatz. Another option is to buy a second-hand Dirndl from Kleidermarkt, (Im Tal 30). It’s one of the largest second-hand stores in Munich. There are modern designs available too along with the more traditional designs most people get.
Ladies, if you’re going with a guy, wearing this traditional outfit, encourage him to wear Lederhosen. Most guys will be. Tell him that you think he’ll look sexy in it if he needs extra encouragement.
Insider travel tip: Go on a Tuesday between 13:00 pm 3:00 pm and save 30%.
2) Indicate Your Marital Status with the Tie on your Dirndl:
Knot it on the right to show that you’re taken. A knot on the left shows that you are single, while a knot in the front middle means you are a virgin. A knot in the back means you are widowed.
Unfortunately, there is no way to tell a man’s marital status from his lederhosen. But if you tie your dirndl on the left, you’ll have no trouble attracting some drunk dude’s attention.
Believe it or not, there’s something really sexy about getting hit on by a guy wearing lederhosen – as long as he’s still coherent.
3)Wear flats.
A huge part of Oktoberfest is dancing to songs like this one, on the benches. Trust me you do not want to be doing this in heels. I did this once and only once!
Bring a pair of shoes you can dance in and avoid open-toed shoes too. You have no idea how many beer glasses get broken during Oktoberfest.
The benches can be wobbly with 12 drunk people jumping up and down on them. Not only is it difficult to dance on a wobbly bench in heels, it’s also very easy to lose your balance. You don’t want to end up spraining an ankle.
Related Reading: Best Women’s Hiking Sandals
4) Bring a small cross-body purse.
I made the mistake of bringing a regular-size purse the first time I went to Oktoberfest. This was a really bad idea.
First, there’s no place to put your purse. The floor is dirty and covered in beer. Plus it isn’t safe. You never want to leave valuables at Oktoberfest. And the table is covered in beer.
Your only option is to hold your purse the entire time. It’s much easier to do when it’s a small cross-body purse. Carry only a few essentials.
Dirndl wallets are also a thing! This accessory is usually made to match the material of your Dirndl dress. They are attached directly to the tie on the front of your apron.
Another accessory to look out for are Wiesn Glupperl or Wiesn Klammern. These are clothespins that have funny sentences on them and they can even engrave your name on them. My friends love these as souvenirs.
5) Leave your coat at home.
There is nowhere to put your coat. And the festival tents can get really hot with up to 8000 dancing people.
Your only option is to wear it and sweat like crazy. Or put it on the floor and have it get dirty and soaked in beer at best or at worst stolen. So just enjoy and flaunt your authentic outfit!
If it’s really chilly, bring a light sweater. In my opinion, it’s better to be chilly while getting to and from Oktoberfest and to be comfortable while you’re in the tents than the other way around.
Where to Stay in Munich
While you may want to be within walking distance of Theresienwiese, the grounds where Oktoberfest is held, it’s pricy. Fortunately, the grounds are very easy to get to with Munich’s excellent train system, so look for a property anywhere along the S-bahn, U3, U6, U4 or U5, which is still convenient.
Finding a hotel during Oktoberfest is very difficult. Some hotels are booked months in advance, so if you know you’re going, book as early as possible.
Hotels in the City Centre
The city center is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a convenient location and want to explore the city on foot. These hotels are within walking distance of the Hauptbahnhof (main train station), Marienplatz, and many other sights. From there, you can quickly reach Oktoberfest by public transportation.
Bayerischer Hof – This five-star hotel is a hot spot for celebrities and heads of state when they visit Munich. It’s conveniently located close to the Bavarian State Opera and Marienplatz. It’s a great choice if you’re seeking luxury. The rooftop bar (open in summer) has some of the best views of Munich.
Rocco Forte The Charles Hotel – This elegant hotel overlooks the Old Botanical Garden providing an oasis even though you’re in the heart of the city, steps away from the Hauptbahnhof. It’s also home to the longest indoor pool in Munich. It’s an excellent choice if you’re looking for a larger hotel room.
Anna Hotel – Munich’s first design hotel has beautiful aesthetics with attention to detail like lamps and textiles carefully thought out. Located right at Stachus (Karlsplatz) you’re right in the heart of all the attention. If you’re interested in design and architecture, you’ll love staying here.
Hotels Close to Oktoberfest
BOLD Hotel München Zentrum – This modern hotel is only a 5-minute walk to Oktoberfest and 50 m from the Underground station, from where you can quickly reach Marienplatz. BOLD Hotels also has apartments, some of which are equipped with a kitchenette.
Roomers Munich, Autograph Collection – A modern and stylish provides a wide range of amenities, including a swimming pool, a fitness center, and a spa. The Asian in-house restaurant also caters to vegetarians and vegans.
Hotel Senator München – This hotel is just minutes from Oktoberfest and near Munich train station. It features contemporary rooms and underground parking.
Ladies, here’s how to make your visit to Oktoberfest happen
- Avoid standing in lines with this Oktoberfest tour. Get the details here.
- Or extend your Oktoberfest time with this four-day tour. It includes camping where the party continues.
- Don’t see what you’re looking for? You’ll find more Oktoberfest tours HERE.
