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Top 7 Things to do and Attractions in Munich Germany!

Top 7 Things to do and Attractions in Munich Germany

When one thinks of Munich, Oktoberfest will naturally come to mind! But what are the top things to do and attractions in Munich really? Where exactly to stay in Munich?

Let’s find out!

Top Things to do and Attractions in Munich Germany!

1. Glockenspiel Clock Tower

Rathaus Glockenspiel @ Marienplatz Munich
Rathaus Glockenspiel @ Marienplatz Munich

The Rathaus Glockenspiel is one of the top 10 must visit clock towers in the world! Today, it attracts millions of visitors annually to see its shows and the uniqueness of what this clock tower has to offer!

2. Marienplatz

City Hall Clock Tower and the MariensΓ€ule (Marian Column)
City Hall Clock Tower and the MariensΓ€ule (Marian Column)

Besides the Glockenspiel, Marienplatz itself also attracts visitors alike. At this old square, visitors can enjoy a drink at the cafes, catch the show of Glockenspiel or simply just people watch. Meet your friends at Mariensaule if you’re lost!

3. Viktualienmarkt

Viktualienmarkt (Munich) and the Maypole
Viktualienmarkt (Munich) and the Maypole

An old farmer’s market in the past, Viktualienmarkt has evolved into a large market that sells all types of groceries, meats and even souvenirs. Have a meal at the al fresco dining area while you’re there!

4. Hofbrauhaus Munchen

Hofbrauhaus am Platzl in Munich
Hofbrauhaus am Platzl in Munich
Best pork knuckle ever @ Hofbrauhaus Munchen
Best pork knuckle ever @ Hofbrauhaus Munchen

Missed Oktoberfest? No worries! Hofbrauhaus brewery has its own merry men that conjours that lively atmosphere at the Oktoberfest! What’s more, you get to savour the best pork knuckle ever here at Hofbrauhaus! Guten Appetit!

5. Englischer Garten

Entrance to the Englischer Garten Munich
Entrance to the Englischer Garten Munich

Enjoy a leisurely stroll at the Englischer Garten! Check out the Japanese Tea House or the Chinese Tower in this garden while you’re here. You may also chance upon surfers here!

6. Side Trips to Oberammergau and Mittenwald – Bavarian!

Street with Alps in the background - Artistically taken by Kate!
Street with Alps in the background – Artistically taken by Kate!
Alps (The Kofel : Oberammergau Matterhorn) and the ice cream shop
Alps (The Kofel : Oberammergau Matterhorn) and the ice cream shop

The awe-inspiring Bavarian Alps can be visited via Munich! Take a short trip to Oberammergau and Mittenwald where you’ll be able to enjoy the beautiful scenery as well as the large mural art! You can also choose to visit the Neuschwanstein castle that inspired the animation at the start of Disney’s production.

7. Oktoberfest!!!

Welcome to Oktoberfest at Theriesen Wiese, Munich!
Welcome to Oktoberfest at Theriesen Wiese, Munich!
Throngs of people in the Oktoberfest beer tents - in the middle of the day!
Throngs of people in the Oktoberfest beer tents – in the middle of the day!

How can a visit to Munich be complete without going to the Oktoberfest?! Oktoberfest, held at the Theresienwiese Oktoberfest area is not only the biggest beer festival in the world, it is also a huge gigantic fun fair, offering a great time for the entire family!

We stayed at the NH Dornach during our visit to the Oktoberfest. Do check out our posts about the hotels!

Related Posts

You have just finished a post in this series of our travels in Munich. Find out more about Munich in these related posts!

Top 7 Things to do and Attractions in Munich Germany
Englischer Garten Munich : A surfer’s paradise?
Viktualienmarkt Munich : A Market in Munich City Centre
Marienplatz Munich : Old Town Square of Munich
Glockenspiel Munich : Top 10 Clock Towers in the World
Hofbrauhaus Brewery Munich : Fresh Beers and the Best Pork Knuckle Ever!
Oktoberfest Germany Munich : The Biggest Beer Festival in the World!
Oktoberfest Munich, Germany: Things to do and Attractions (Besides Beer that is…)

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Remember to leave your comments for 2bearbear Singapore Travel Blog in our comments section below!

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We hope you have enjoyed our top 7 things to do and attractions in Munich Germany!

Hofbrauhaus Brewery Munich : Fresh Beers and the Best Pork Knuckle Ever!

Hofbrauhaus Brewery Munich

Hofbrauhaus or Hof brew house (Brewery) is one of the must-visit attractions in Munich! On every Munich tourist brochure we received, the iconic HB (Hof Brau) will definitely be mentioned and we’re gonna tell you why…

Why visit Hofbrauhaus Munich?

Hofbrauhaus am Platzl in Munich
Hofbrauhaus am Platzl in Munich

If you are visiting Munich but happen to miss the Oktoberfest, no worries. The Hofbrauhaus is a restaurant in the heart of Munich where the atmosphere of the Oktoberfest happens every night!

There are 2 portions to Hofbrauhaus, namely the restaurant area…

Inside the restaurant area of Hofbrauhaus
Inside the restaurant area of Hofbrauhaus

as well as the “happening fest” area / open air area

View from the restaurant into the open air area
View from the restaurant into the open air area

There is a performance area where live Oktoberfest music is played nightly at the fest area. Hence, if you missed the Oktoberfest proper, Hofbrauhaus is definitely one of the places you must go to catch up on the atmosphere of the festivals.

What to eat & drink at Hofbrauhaus am Platzl Munich

Drinks and Food Menu at Hofbrauhaus
Drinks and Food Menu at Hofbrauhaus

For drinks, you can choose from the usual wheat beers (at about 4euros for 0.5litres) such as light, dark or the Oktoberfest brew (only during Oktoberfest period) specially brewed for the Oktoberfests.

But the highlight of the menu has got to be pork knuckle (or Schwein Haxe)!

Best pork knuckle ever @ Hofbrauhaus Munchen
Best pork knuckle ever @ Hofbrauhaus Munchen

First and foremost, the skin was crispy yet not the overly crispy type where you feel it is almost burnt. The fatty bits was not too fatty but just nice, allowing you to bite off. There are some versions where the fatty bits are not well done and you will find it very hard to chew off.

The meat itself was flavourful and juicy, infused with the herb taste. If you take 1 mouth of the crispy skin, fatty bit and flavourful meat, it would just be “Ah….”

One word for the pork knuckle – Yummilicious! (That’s when you need to combine yummy and delicious into one word)

And it really was…

The ambience inside the restaurant was also fantastic. We were seated at one corner of the restaurant with views out to the pathway outside the restaurant…

Window seats at Hofbrauhaus Munich
Window seats at Hofbrauhaus Munich

In addition, the tables we were seated at were traditional, made out of wood and even had supports for our feet. The service was also great. The waiter took care to speak to us in good English and was meticulous in his service. Eventhough we only ordered one portion of the pork knuckle to share, he automatically got an extra plate for us and often checked back with us from time to time to ensure that we were really well taken care of.

All in all, our experience at Hofbrauhaus was nothing short of excellent. And you would think that the bill would run sky high? Nope. We only spent 20.20Euros that evening and enjoyed a wonderful meal with excellent service at that!

Total bill at Hofbrauhaus - Well worth every cent!
Total bill at Hofbrauhaus – Well worth every cent!

Related Posts

You have just finished a post in this series of our travels in Munich. Find out more about Munich in these related posts!

Top 7 Things to do and Attractions in Munich Germany
Englischer Garten Munich : A surfer’s paradise?
Viktualienmarkt Munich : A Market in Munich City Centre
Marienplatz Munich : Old Town Square of Munich
Glockenspiel Munich : Top 10 Clock Towers in the World
Hofbrauhaus Brewery Munich : Fresh Beers and the Best Pork Knuckle Ever!
Oktoberfest Germany Munich : The Biggest Beer Festival in the World!
Oktoberfest Munich, Germany: Things to do and Attractions (Besides Beer that is…)

If you enjoyed our content, “Like” us on Facebook Today!

Hofbrauhaus Brewery Munich
Hofbrauhaus Brewery Munich

For your convenience, we have arranged for the best hotel deals in Munich right here!

So don’t forget to visit Hofbrauhaus the next time you are in Munich!

NH Dornach Munich : Clean, Spacious & Walking Distance to Riem Train Station

NH Dornach Munich

NH Dornach Munich was where we stayed at during the Oktoberfest period. Well, there were several reasons why we ended up at the NH Dornach…

1. Procrastination. We did not know if we were going to Europe in the very first place. To go or not to go. To go or not to go. This went on for about forever before we concluded that we should go to the Oktoberfest. By then, many of the hotels in the city have been fully booked!

2. Price. If you think that the $245SGD we paid for this room was expensive. It really was not. 4 star hotels in the city easily went for more than $300 during the Oktoberfest period. And they’re sold fast, so plan early if you’re heading there. (Find out about the Things to do and attractions at Oktoberfest right here.)

3. Accessibility. With its location near to the S-Bahn – Riem station, the NH Dornach was a mere 15 minutes ride to the city. This made NH Dornach a good choice for Oktoberfest revelers.

 Exterior of NH Dornach Munich
Exterior of NH Dornach Munich

 Standard Room at NH Munchen Dornach
Standard Room at NH Munchen Dornach

The room was clean and spacious. The bed was also comfortable, giving Oktoberfest revelers a good rest to recharge for the next day. The was also a bath tub in the bathroom…

 Bathroom @ NH Munchen Dornach
Bathroom @ NH Munchen Dornach

Again, the bathroom was clean and since the hotel does not have a swimming pool, the bath tub offers the choice of relaxing in the water in the comforts of your room. The hotel does offer a gym for those who would like to keep fit as well. Especially for those who feels guilty after the festivals…

All in all, the stay at NH Munchen Dornach was a good one. Given our limited choices at that point in time, we’re quite glad that we’re able to get a room here.

 Statue on the way from Riem station to NH Dornach
Statue on the way from Riem station to NH Dornach

Remember also that there is a short cut to the station right opposite the entrance of the hotel. Following this path will save you about 5 minutes as compared to walking along the main road to the train station. Yup, along the way you will see the above statue and you know that you have arrived at the train station!

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NH Munchen Dornach Munich
NH Munchen Dornach Munich

For your convenience, we have arranged for the best hotel deals in Munich right here!

Let us know about your stay at NH Munchen Dornach the next time you’re there!

Oktoberfest Germany Munich : The Biggest Beer Festival in the World!

Oktoberfest Germany Munich

Oktoberfest in Germany, Munich is touted as the biggest beer festival in the world! But this annual festival is not merely about beers, it is actually fun for the entire family as well! Spanning an area of about 40 hectares at Theriesen Wiese (next to the U-bahn), the Oktoberfest area has 14 major beer tents, 21 smaller ones, food stalls, games stalls and many thrill rides! So join us as we uncover Oktoberfest in Munich Germany!

Welcome to Oktoberfest at Theriesen Wiese, Munich!
Welcome to Oktoberfest at Theriesen Wiese, Munich!

Stowing your luggage / baggage at Munich Hauptbahnhof (train station)

If you have not made reservations and want to visit the beer tents, it is always wise to visit Oktoberfest early in the day 10am or so (the first person gets drunk at that time as well). The seats in the evening are usually reserved a year in advance and you’ll probably have no seats in the beer tents after 5pm. After checking out and leaving our luggage at the Munich Hauptbahnhof (main train station), we took a short walk to the Theriesen Wiese Festival Grounds about 500 metres away from the train station.

Squeezed 4 pieces of bags into this locker at Munich Hauptbahnhof for 5 Euros
Squeezed 4 pieces of bags into this locker at Munich Hauptbahnhof for 5 Euros

There are MANY lockers at the train station, so it should not be a problem to stow your luggage there while you have a good time at Oktoberfest. The lockers cost 5 Euros. Just remember to bring everything you need (we left our day pass train tickets in the locker – eliminating our option of taking the U-Bahn from Theriesen Wiese station)! There’s also a concierge kind of baggage storage which is slightly more expensive but you will certainly be able to stow your stuff away before visiting the festival!

Things to do at Oktoberfest Munich

From the Munich train station, there are signs pointing you to the direction of Oktoberfest. You can also follow the crowd. At 10am in the morning, throngs of people were already making their way there! 2 ways to identify them. Firstly, many were in traditional bavarian costume of Lederhosen (for the men) or Dirndl (for the ladies). Secondly, there are too many people walking in one general direction and it has got to be it! After about 10 minutes, we finally arrived at Oktoberfest!

First view of Oktoberfest (Notice that people have their backs facing us as they've just entered the festival as well)
First view of Oktoberfest (Notice that people have their backs facing us as they’ve just entered the festival as well)


Feel the festivities in the air at Oktoberfest!

Beer Tents at Oktoberfest

As we were early, we’ve decided to visit the beer tents first. Here are some of the tents we visited…

Hippodrum Beer Tent

Hippodrum Beer Tent @ Oktoberfest Munich
Hippodrum Beer Tent @ Oktoberfest Munich
Inside Hippodrum Beer Tent Oktoberfest Munich at 11am - not so many people yet
Inside Hippodrum Beer Tent Oktoberfest Munich at 11am – not so many people yet

Paulaner Beer Tent

Paulaner Beer Tent @ Oktoberfest Germany
Paulaner Beer Tent @ Oktoberfest Germany
Take pictures with horses and beer barrels at Oktoberfest Germany Munich!
Take pictures with horses and beer barrels at Oktoberfest Germany Munich!
Tower of Paulaner at Oktoberfest Munich Germany
Tower of Paulaner at Oktoberfest Munich Germany


Area outside Paulaner Brauhaus

Spatenbrau Beer Tent

Spatenbrau Oktoberfest Germany Munich
Spatenbrau Oktoberfest Germany Munich


Atmosphere outside Spatenbrau Oktoberfest

Inside Spaten Brau at Oktoberfest Munich Germany
Inside Spaten Brau at Oktoberfest Munich Germany
Have you seen anything like that? - A full grown pig being roasted at Oktoberfest
Have you seen anything like that? – A full grown pig being roasted at Oktoberfest

Schottenhamel Beer Tent

Schottenhamel Oktoberfest Deutschland
Schottenhamel Oktoberfest Deutschland
Inside Oktoberfest Munich Schottenhamel Beer Tent with location of Band such that everyone can see them
Inside Oktoberfest Munich Schottenhamel Beer Tent with location of Band such that everyone can see them

Hacker Festzelt Beer Tent

Hacker Festzeit Beer Tent at Oktoberfest Munich Germany
Hacker Festzeit Beer Tent at Oktoberfest Munich Germany

Lowenbrau Beer Tent

Lowenbrau and its moving (and growling) lion (at Oktoberfest)
Lowenbrau and its moving (and growling) lion (at Oktoberfest)

The beer tents usually serve Hefe (or unfiltered wheat beer). A good example would be Erdinger. Besides serving their own brew, some tents also brew beers specially for Oktoberfest each year. Prices of beers at Oktoberfest range from 9 euros to 11 euros per litre. Oh remember, hold the beer mugs like the locals do…your palm through the handle of the beer mug…

Authentic German Bavarian Food @ Oktoberfest

Experienced Oktoberfest-goers will tell you that you will need to “line your stomach” with fatty foods so as to “absorb” alcohol, allowing you to last through the night. Well, not too sure of whether that’s true (any medical students who can verify this?) but there’s definitely lots of food to try at Oktoberfest!

Pork Knuckle Sandwich

Sausage / Pork Knuckle Sandwich Stall Oktoberfest Munich Germany
Sausage / Pork Knuckle Sandwich Stall Oktoberfest Munich Germany
Pork Kunckle Sandwich 4 Euros @ Oktoberfest
Pork Kunckle Sandwich 4 Euros @ Oktoberfest

The pork knuckle sandwich is a must-try at Oktoberfest. All fest-goers will go for the fatty meats of the pork knuckle to “assist” them at the festival. Some of the buns may be too hard for our liking but the meat is Ooo lala! Tender, smoky and fatty! Yum!

Schnitzel Sandwich

Crispy Pork Schnitzel Burger 4.9 euros (Oktoberfest Munich)
Crispy Pork Schnitzel Burger 4.9 euros (Oktoberfest Munich)

Schnitzel simply means fried meat. Usually the meat is tenderised (by pounding) and placed into a batter before frying to golden brown. Needless to say, the outer layer is crispy, inside it’s moist and tender. Look at the size of that schnitzel!

Roasted Chicken

Rows of roasted chicken at Oktoberfest Munich Germany (8 euros for half a chicken) Super Tasty!
Rows of roasted chicken at Oktoberfest Munich Germany (8 euros for half a chicken) Super Tasty!
Ammer where we bought our  roasted chicken at Oktoberfest Germany!
Ammer where we bought our roasted chicken at Oktoberfest Germany!
Moist & tender Roasted Chicken with vege stuffing
Moist & tender Roasted Chicken with vege stuffing

The humble roasted chicken is a main fare at Oktoberfest. You can probably judge its popularity by the rows of chickens in the ovens. Although it is relatively expensive at Oktoberfest (8Euros for half a chicken), the taste is absolutely fabulous. The meat was fully flavoured and if you notice, the oil drips from the chicken on top to the one below. Guess it’s that motion over and over again that gives the roasted chicken that much depth in flavour. Skin may be a little salty for some…beware!

Roasted Fish Anyone?

Roasted fish in the open air at Oktoberfest Munich
Roasted fish in the open air at Oktoberfest Munich

Desserts

Freshly baked crispy fluffy waffle with sugar icing (1.5 euros)- Yum! (Oktoberfest Munich Germany)
Freshly baked crispy fluffy waffle with sugar icing (1.5 euros)- Yum! (Oktoberfest Munich Germany)
Apple Strudel (5.5 euro with 2 euro refund for the plate) at Oktoberfest Germany Munich
Apple Strudel (5.5 euro with 2 euro refund for the plate) at Oktoberfest Germany Munich

Oktoberfest is not merely about the meats and beers. The desserts were very enticing as well. Check out the freshly baked waffles with sugar icing. Appealing isnt it? It is REALLY, FOR REAL, CONFIRM PLUS CHOP, crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Between the both of us, it took less than 2 minutes to finish it all up, eventhough it was piping hot!

The strudel was a little bit expensive but tasted good as well. Traditional bavarian style. Yummy.

Other things to do at Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest is really not just a beer festival. It caters to the young and the young at heart as well. Besides the usual stall games (throwing stuff to win stuff), thrill seekers can find solace in knowing that there are MANY exciting rides at Oktoberfest as well!

Olympia Loop - A roller coaster ride! at Oktoberfest
Olympia Loop – A roller coaster ride! at Oktoberfest
Hollenblitz - Another roller coaster with effects and characters
Hollenblitz – Another roller coaster with effects and characters
Crazy ride at Oktoberfest - with 3 axis of spin
Crazy ride at Oktoberfest – with 3 axis of spin

If Tom says this is a crazy ride, this is a CRAZY ride. Having conquered bungee jump, giant drop (Dream World Australia) and Human vs Cylon (Universal Studios Singapore), Tom says this is the most challenging of them all! Check out the video…

It may look like a Viking but it most definitely is not. Not only can the main axis go 360 degrees, your own capsule can go 360 degrees PLUS the merry go round (another axis of rotation). Suffice to say, this ride is OUT TO MAKE YOU PUKE! Before Tom went on the ride, the attendants had to wash away the puke left behind by the previous riders. Think twice before trying this seemingly easy ride…


Video of another crazy ride at Oktoberfest

Again, this ride seems like nothing. But you’ll firstly feel the centrifugal force, then contend with the height PLUS the capsule rotates 360degrees. Well, the one that Tom took was crazier but this is no chicken feet either.

Ok, enough with the crazy rides. There are also rides for the kids as well…

Gnome Train Ride for kids at Oktoberfest Munich
Gnome Train Ride for kids at Oktoberfest Munich

There’s an area in the festival ground that caters to the young ones. Train rides such as this gnome train and other kid rides are designed with the kids in mind. Adults can also hug their kids for this traditional slide…


Traditional Slide at Oktoberfest

You’ll first need to go up an inclined travelator (kids can be assisted by the attendance, adults too if you need to). Climb up a few flight of stairs and enjoy this long but slow slide down.

Oktoberfest is really a festival for the entire family and not merely a beer festival. One of the days at Oktoberfest is actually called “family day” where some rides and food are discounted for the family to enjoy a day out at the fest!

Our Oktoberfest Experience at Augustiner Beer Tent

Well, it’s finally time to tell of our experience in the beer tents of Oktoberfest. This time, we chose to go to Augustiner Brau where it was said that the beers are simply delicious (you dont often use that word to describe beers right?)

Outside Augustiner Brau @ Oktoberfest
Outside Augustiner Brau @ Oktoberfest
Throngs of people in the Oktoberfest beer tents - in the middle of the day!
Throngs of people in the Oktoberfest beer tents – in the middle of the day!
Augustiner Beers for 9.30 each
Augustiner Beers for 9.30 each

The beer was absolutely delicious. Full bodied and full of flavour. But do drink it slowly as they’re quite strong as well. Speaking of the price of beers, we later read an article on Oktoberfest stating that the beer ladies are earning less these days. In the past, beers were priced at 7.50 or 8.50. Some would give 8,9 or 10 euros. These days, the beers are at 9.30euros and we still gave only 9.50euros. Even if there are those who gave 10euros, their tip would not have been as much as compared to the last few years. We’re just glad that they did not scold us for our miserly 20cent euros tip! :p

Huge Pretzels anyone - 4.6euros? (Oktoberfest Augustiner Beer Tent)
Huge Pretzels anyone – 4.6euros? (Oktoberfest Augustiner Beer Tent)

As it was totally full on the ground level, we went upstairs and sat at a spot with a view. Not too bad actually. We then bought 2 pretzels, one for us to share and the other for another german couple on the same table as us, to share. Turns out that they were also from out of town and stopped by for the Oktoberfest!

Before we leave, we would like to introduce the official “cheers song” at Oktoberfest – Ein Prosit…


Oktoberfest Cheers Song – Ein Prosit

The lyrics of Ein Prosit (A Toast) is…

Ein Prosit, ein Prosit
Der GemΓΌtlichkeit
Ein Prosit, ein Prosit
Der GemΓΌtlichkeit.

It basically translates to “A toast at your own liking for good cheer and good times!”

Last but not least…

If you’re going there with your loved ones, remember to get a lebkuchen!

How about an Oktoberfest Leb Kuchen for your loved ones - remember to pay with a kiss!
How about an Oktoberfest Leb Kuchen for your loved ones – remember to pay with a kiss!

Lebkuchen is a sort of gingerbread and at Oktoberfest, it is fashioned into a heart-shaped with many different messages written on it. Remember, the guy will buy for the girl, puts it over her neck while the girl repays with a kiss! Well, at least that’s what the stall owner taught us!

Aufwidersehen Oktoberfest "See you again!"
Aufwidersehen Oktoberfest “See you again!”

Related Posts

You have just finished a post in this series of our travels in Munich. Find out more about Munich in these related posts!

Top 7 Things to do and Attractions in Munich Germany
Englischer Garten Munich : A surfer’s paradise?
Viktualienmarkt Munich : A Market in Munich City Centre
Marienplatz Munich : Old Town Square of Munich
Glockenspiel Munich : Top 10 Clock Towers in the World
Hofbrauhaus Brewery Munich : Fresh Beers and the Best Pork Knuckle Ever!
Oktoberfest Germany Munich : The Biggest Beer Festival in the World!
Oktoberfest Munich, Germany: Things to do and Attractions (Besides Beer that is…)

If you enjoyed our content, “Like” us on Facebook Today!

Oktoberfest Germany Munich
Oktoberfest Germany Munich

For your convenience, we have arranged for the best hotel deals in Munich right here!

How to get to Oktoberfest in Munich Germany

There are basically 2 ways to get to Oktoberfest. You can either

1. Take a train to Munich Hauptbahnhof (main train station) and take a 10 minutes walk from there to Theriesen Wiese festival grounds OR

2. Take the U-bahn to the train station of the same name (Theriesen Wiese), you would be right outside the festival grounds.

It is recommended to go to the hauptbahnhof actually because the Theriesen Wiese station can be quite packed during peak hours.

For some interesting facts about Oktoberfest, you can visit this post.

We hope you have enjoyed our post! Do note that Oktoberfest is held annually during the last week of September and first week of October! Dont blur blur go there in mid October thinking that you can go to Oktoberfest! Comment below to tell us of your trip to Oktoberfest in Munich Germany!

Oktoberfest Munich, Germany: Things to do and Attractions (Besides Beer that is…)

Oktoberfest Munich Germany

Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany is the largest beer festival in the world! But did you know that besides beer guzzling and more beer guzzling, there are actually alot of festivities and fringe activities all around the festival arena? In this post, we will show you the things to do and attractions at Oktoberfest Germany in Munich!

Interesting facts about Oktoberfest Germany

Did you know…

1. Oktoberfest DOES NOT start in October! Oktoberfest usually starts in the last week of September and ends in the first week of October. If you visit Munich somewhere in mid to end October thinking that you can catch the Oktoberfest, you’ll be in for a huge disappointment!

2. In 2013, Oktoberfest will be celebrating its 180th Beer festival! Although Oktoberfest was first started in 1810, there have been several festivals that were cancelled due to epidemics and war.

3. Oktoberfest is not only the largest beer festival in the world. It is THE LARGEST FESTIVAL in the world (beer left out in this sentence). Besides the 14 large beer tents (including famous brews such as Hofbrau, Lowenbrau and Augustiner), there are also 21 smaller tents selling their specialities such as roasted chicken (and beer of course). But there’s more to the 42 hectares (can you believe the size?!) Theresienwiese Oktoberfest area. There are MANY fringe activities such as games, rides and food that caters to the entire family!

Oktoberfest in Munich Germany
Oktoberfest in Munich Germany

Beer guzzling and more beer guzzling

Oktoberfest gives people an impression that it is a beer festival. It sure is the biggest beer festival in the world. With millions of visitors all over the world drinking and guzzling millions more litres of beer each year, it is no wonder that people only think about beer at Oktoberfest.

Lowenbrau and its moving (and growling) lion (at Oktoberfest)
Lowenbrau and its moving (and growling) lion (at Oktoberfest)
Throngs of people in the Oktoberfest beer tents - in the middle of the day!
Throngs of people in the Oktoberfest beer tents – in the middle of the day!

Lining the Tummy – Oktoberfest Food!

Many a beer drinker would advise that you line your tummy with fatty foods before you hit the beer tents. There are indeed many variety of food available at Oktoberfest. Here are some of the foods we’ve tried!

Pork Kunckle Sandwich Oktoberfest
Pork Kunckle Sandwich Oktoberfest

One of the fattiest street snack you can find at Oktoberfest has got to be the pork knuckle sandwich! The skin is crispy and flavourful while the fatty bits beneath gives you the lining that you need to survive the beer festival! While you’re trying out the street foods, why not give the crispy schnitzel burger a try as well?

At Oktoberfest, there are many tents selling roasted chicken. Tender, moist and well marinated, the roasted smell of the chicken can really attract its customers!

Do try the desserts at Oktoberfest, the waffle and apple pie were, “oh so good!”. Ask Kate and she’ll tell ya!

Have you seen anything like that? - A full grown pig being roasted at Oktoberfest
Have you seen anything like that? – A full grown pig being roasted at Oktoberfest
Crispy Pork Schnitzel Burger (Oktoberfest Munich)
Crispy Pork Schnitzel Burger (Oktoberfest Munich)
Moist & tender Roasted Chicken with vege stuffing
Moist & tender Roasted Chicken with vege stuffing
Huge Pretzels anyone? (Oktoberfest Augustiner Beer Tent)
Huge Pretzels anyone? (Oktoberfest Augustiner Beer Tent)
Freshly baked crispy fluffy waffle with sugar icing - Yum! (Oktoberfest Munich Germany)
Freshly baked crispy fluffy waffle with sugar icing – Yum! (Oktoberfest Munich Germany)
Apple Strudel at Oktoberfest Germany Munich
Apple Strudel at Oktoberfest Germany Munich

Fun rides for the entire family!

As we have mentioned, there are many other games and rides at Oktoberfest. Games would include throwing balls or rings to win prizes. Or simply using a huge hammer to see if the indicator hits the bell at the top. Besides the game stalls, there are many other exciting rides at Oktoberfest!

Crazy ride at Oktoberfest - with 3 axis of spin
Crazy ride at Oktoberfest – with 3 axis of spin
Olympia Loop - A roller coaster ride! at Oktoberfest
Olympia Loop – A roller coaster ride! at Oktoberfest

Besides the crazy rides for the thrill seekers, there’s also a section of the fair dedicated to kids to have some fun of their own. Train rides for kids and slides are also available at Oktoberfest!

Gnome Train Ride for kids at Oktoberfest Munich
Gnome Train Ride for kids at Oktoberfest Munich

Other things you can do at Oktoberfest

Check out rows of fish being roasted for the patrons – fishy smell at that!

Roasted fish in the open air at Oktoberfest Munich
Roasted fish in the open air at Oktoberfest Munich
Take pictures with horses and beer barrels at Oktoberfest Germany Munich!
Take pictures with horses and beer barrels at Oktoberfest Germany Munich!
How about an Oktoberfest Leb Kuchen for your loved ones - remember to pay with a kiss!
How about an Oktoberfest Leb Kuchen for your loved ones – remember to pay with a kiss!

Related Posts

You have just finished a post in this series of our travels in Munich. Find out more about Munich in these related posts!

Top 7 Things to do and Attractions in Munich Germany
Englischer Garten Munich : A surfer’s paradise?
Viktualienmarkt Munich : A Market in Munich City Centre
Marienplatz Munich : Old Town Square of Munich
Glockenspiel Munich : Top 10 Clock Towers in the World
Hofbrauhaus Brewery Munich : Fresh Beers and the Best Pork Knuckle Ever!
Oktoberfest Germany Munich : The Biggest Beer Festival in the World!
Oktoberfest Munich, Germany: Things to do and Attractions (Besides Beer that is…)

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Oktoberfest Germany Munich
Oktoberfest Germany Munich

For your convenience, we have arranged for the best hotel deals in Munich right here!


Whatever your age or interest, you’ll definitely find your piece of fun at Oktoberfest Munich Germany!

Busch Gardens Illuminights Williamsburg VA – Best Amusement Park in the World

Busch Gardens Illuminights Williamsburg VA

One of the most memorable quotes we heard during this trip was when one of the kids shouted

“This is the best summer ever!”. The kid’s not wrong. In fact he’s absolutely right and Busch Gardens is in fact voted as one of the best amusement park in the world! And here’s the reason why…

Map of Busch Gardens Williamsburg VA
Map of Busch Gardens Williamsburg VA

1. Huge. The whole place is huge! It has separated itself into different regions using names of different countries. Hence, as you enter a “different country” you will see a change in the “theme”. These countries include Germany, France, Italy, Scotland, England and Ireland.

2. Wild Crazy Exciting Rides! There is no shortfall of rollercoasters at this amusement park. Boasting some of the wildest rides, even the names of these rides at Busch Gardens makes one stand in awe. The famous rides include Alpengeist, Loch Ness Monster and Griffon. If you want some wet rides, head for the Roman Rapids and Escape from Pompeii at Italy.

3. Fun for the whole family There is pretty much something for everyone here at Busch Gardens. For the kids, there’s Sesame Street Forest of Fun where you can meet all your favourite Sesame Street characters such as Big Bird, Ernie, Bert and Elmo. For those who fear the rides, there are performances all over the park. As Kate has some fear for the rides, we pretty much covered all of the performances in Busch Gardens. As for food, you can savour all the different delicacies from the different countries. So there’s really pretty much something for everyone here at Busch Gardens.

As Kate and I drove for our weekend getaway at Busch Gardens, we pretty much anticipated it with excitement because of the excellent reviews from our friends. As we arrived at Busch Gardens, we pretty much anticipated free parking. However, to our dismay, the parking costs $13USD per day!

The price of the admission tickets to Busch Gardens was about $65USD per adult. This translates to about $80 SGD but is totally worth it and you will see why.

The queue was relatively short as we timed our arrival to the opening of the park.

Entrance to Busch Gardens
Entrance to Busch Gardens
Souvenir Shops at Busch Gardens
Souvenir Shops at Busch Gardens

We ventured into one of the many souvenir shops and saw the miniature of the Griffon roller coaster ride.

Miniature of Griffon Roller Coaster
Miniature of Griffon Roller Coaster
The Actual Griffon Roller Coaster
The Actual Griffon Roller Coaster

Kate and I headed first to the Sesame Street Forest of Fun re-live our childhood memories!

Sesame Street Forest of Fun @ Busch Gardens
Sesame Street Forest of Fun @ Busch Gardens

We were just in time for the performance by the Sesame Street Characters and we even got to have photos with Big Bird and Ernie.

Sesame Characters performing at Forest of Fun Busch Gardens
Sesame Characters performing at Forest of Fun Busch Gardens

As we’re afraid of rides with “too much excitement”, we took the Elmo “mini giant drop” (See the Elmo King in the background) as well as the Oscar wormy ride, sort of like a Viking for the kids…

Oscar Viking Ride
Oscar Viking Ride

The most exciting ride we had for the day was Escape from Pompeii. It’s actually like a log ride that brings you through the ruins of pompeii (complete with fire and everything). Then as you finally “break out” of the darkness and as the window panel opens, you see light but you’ll also be able to see the far distance, there’s when you know you’re dropping down!!!

Dropping down from the Escape from Pompeii
Dropping down from the Escape from Pompeii

To save on the walking, Kate and I decided to cover the park via the “skytrain” which circles round the whole park. There’s even a river in the middle of the park!

All aboard for the Train ride round Busch Gardens
All aboard for the Train ride round Busch Gardens
La Belle Maison in "France" as seen from the Train
La Belle Maison in “France” as seen from the Train
Escape from Pompeii as seen from the Train
Escape from Pompeii as seen from the Train

After circling round the park within 20 minutes, we decided to have an early lunch at “Germany” where Kate and I shared the Das Alpine sandwich which was huge! The sweet tea was not that fantastic though. Both Kate and I thought that the portion was huge enough to share as we noticed many tables not being able to finish their food. So share and dont waste food!! There was also live performances put up by the actors similar to that of Oktoberfest!

Inside Das Festhaus in "Germany"
Inside Das Festhaus in “Germany”
Queuing up for food
Queuing up for food
A Beer Garden
A Beer Garden
Das Alpine Sandwich at Busch Gardens
Das Alpine Sandwich at Busch Gardens
Oktoberfest Performance
Oktoberfest Performance
Oktoberfest Performance II
Oktoberfest Performance II

The performance was really professional. The musicians played really well and brought the audience alive with its lively music. The performers were able to do traditional Bavarian dances and some acrobatics that really engaged the audience. Of course the singers were great as well.

As we headed out of the festival house, we saw the haunted house – Curse of the Darkastle!

Curse of the Darkastle at Busch Gardens
Curse of the Darkastle at Busch Gardens

There was also a Carousel as well as a “Land of the Dragons” in “Germany”

Carousel in "Germany"
Carousel in “Germany”
Land of the Dragons in Busch Gardens
Land of the Dragons in Busch Gardens

We then headed to “Ireland” where we caught a musical as well as some street Buskers

Intricately designed structures at Busch Gardens
Intricately designed structures at Busch Gardens
Irish Musical Busch Gardens
Irish Musical Busch Gardens
Song and Dance at "Ireland"
Song and Dance at “Ireland”

Again, the performance was excellent. The singers and dancers did really well. Particularly enjoyed the tap dancing portion πŸ™‚

Busking in the Hot Mid Day Sun
Busking in the Hot Mid Day Sun

In order to cool off, Kate and I decided to head to “Italy” for the Roman Rapids. Unfortunately, we cant show pictures of the ride as the ride was really wet and drenched our whole body. But it was really refreshing especially when the weather was 35 degrees celcius!

Then we headed for the last performance of the day at Teatro Di San Marco and saw a vibrant performance of singing and well synchronised dancing.

Teatro Di San Marco at Busch Gardens
Teatro Di San Marco at Busch Gardens
Well Choreographed and Synchronised Movements

However, what really made the tickets worth it was because in the summer, 2 things happens. It is called Illuminights because there was fireworks display as the amusement park closes. In addition, there would be guest performers and this week, we happen to catch The Bangles!!

Open Air Concert – The Bangles
Open Air Concert – The Bangles
The Bangles performing Manic Monday
The Bangles performing Manic Monday
The Bangles still looking young!
The Bangles still looking young!

It was really nice to reminisence in hits such as Manic Monday and Eternal Flame. The Bangles still looked like there’re in their 30s eventhough quick calculations tell us they should be more like in their 50s.

Overall, Kate and I thoroughly enjoyed the day and given the chance again, we would definitely head to Busch Gardens and discover it all over again. Perhaps this time we would conquer Alpengeist , Loch Ness Monster and Griffon! πŸ™‚

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