Three Budget Scenarios
Depending on how you spend your day, costs vary significantly. Here are three typical scenarios:
Budget
~€50 / day
- €0Entry to Oktoberfest is free.
- €15-€161 Maß beer
- €10-€15Pretzels + snacks at outdoor stands
- €8.80MVV day pass (zone M)
- €0-€81 ride or just watch
- €5Water, tips
Standard
~€100-€150 / day
- €0Free
- €45-€503 Maß beers
- €25-€35Hendl + pretzel + dessert
- €8.80MVV day pass (zone M)
- €10-€202-3 rides
- €15-€20Tips, souvenirs, snacks
Luxury
~€300+ / day
- €0Free
- €80-€1005+ Maß beers + rounds for friends
- €50-€80Schweinshaxe, Hendl, Kaiserschmarrn
- €50-€100Vouchers / package
- €30-€50Taxi both ways
- €30-€50Multiple rides, Ferris wheel
- €50+Souvenirs, photos, tips
10 Money-Saving Tips for Oktoberfest
1. Go on a Weekday
Monday to Thursday is not only less crowded, the atmosphere is also more relaxed and laid-back.
2. Eat at the Outdoor Stands
The street food kitchens outside offer cheaper alternatives: bratwurst from €5, fries from €4.
3. Get the Group Day Pass
For groups of 2 or more: The MVV group day pass costs about €17.80 and covers up to 5 people.
4. Rent or Buy Secondhand Tracht
It does not have to be new. Find great Tracht at secondhand shops, eBay or [rental services](/en/what-to-wear) at half the price.
5. Arrive in the Morning
Before noon the vibe is relaxed and you can enjoy a Weißwurst breakfast - cheaper than evening dishes.
6. Drink Water in Between
Ask for free tap water or bring your own bottle (up to 0.5L allowed). Saves money and prevents hangovers.
7. Visit the Oide Wiesn
For €4 entry, you get a traditional atmosphere, often cheaper prices and less crowding.
8. Book a Hotel Outside the Center
[Hotels](/en/hotels) in Freising, Dachau or near S-Bahn stations are significantly cheaper - and just a short train ride away. [Camping](/en/camping) is another budget-friendly alternative.
9. Bring Your Own Pretzels
At the supermarket, pretzels cost 50 cents instead of €5. Buy them beforehand and bring them along - it is perfectly fine.
10. Book Early
[Hotels](/en/hotels), flights and [Tracht](/en/what-to-wear) get more expensive the closer Oktoberfest gets. Book as early as January for the best prices.
Frequently Asked Questions About Costs
Is there an entry fee for Oktoberfest?
No. Entry to Oktoberfest is completely free. Only the Oide Wiesn (traditional area) charges a small admission of €4. Entry to all beer tents is also free - you just need to find a seat.How much money should I budget for a day?
For a standard day with 2 to 3 Maß beers and food, expect to spend €100 to €150. Budget visitors can get by with €50, while those who go all out can easily spend €300 or more.How much does a table reservation cost?
The reservation itself is free, but there are minimum order requirements: typically 2 Maß beers and a half chicken per person. That amounts to about €40 to €50 per person. Some tents offer packages with food and drink vouchers.How much does a hotel cost during Oktoberfest?
Hotel prices surge during Oktoberfest: budget hotels start at €100 per night, mid-range runs €200 to €400 per night, and luxury starts at €500 per night. Booking early saves significantly. Alternatives include hostels (€30 to €80), Airbnb or hotels outside München.Can I pay by credit card?
Most large tents accept debit cards and some accept credit cards. Smaller stands and rides often only take cash. We recommend having at least €100 in cash on you.How can I save money at Oktoberfest?
Our top tips: 1) Go on a weekday (less crowded, more relaxed). 2) Eat at the outdoor stands instead of in the tents. 3) Use the MVV day pass. 4) Rent Tracht instead of buying. 5) Bring pretzels from outside. 6) Drink water in between beers.Do I need Tracht and how much does it cost?
Tracht is not required but highly recommended - you simply blend in better. Dirndl start at €50 (basic) up to €500+ (premium). Lederhosen range from €80 (faux leather) to €800+ (genuine deerskin). Tip: buy secondhand or rent.