Oktoberfest Archives - yourmunichstay.com

Munich by Car – Ride stress-free when you know these rules

Andy — Mon, 08 Sep 2025 14:19:14 +0000

There are many traffic rules and specific signs that only exist in Germany. To keep it simple, here are some traffic rules that especially tourists from non-European countries should know.

Keep Right Except to Pass

If possible, drive in the right lane. Even when there are many lanes available. You’re obliged to take the right lane.

Accordingly, overtaking in the right lane is forbidden. Always overtake on the left. Unfortunately there are many drivers that drive in one of the middle lanes, ignoring the rule above. Better not overtake them on the right. You could get a hefty fine.

Know about the "Rettungsgasse"

Always create a “Rettungsgasse” (literally rescue alley) when traffic is congested (no matter why it is congested). To make a Rettungsgasse, drive as far left as possible in the left lane, as far right as possible in the right lane. When there are more than two lanes, cars on the left lane drive as far left as possible, all other lanes drive as far right as possible. If you refuse, and you hinder a fire truck, police car or ambulance, you will certainly get an extremely high fine.

Do Not Slow Down to Look at Accidents

Do not look at or slow down to look at traffic accidents where fire trucks and police cars are already there. This is called “Gaffen” (gawk) and can get you a hefty fine of up to approx. 2.000 USD. Also taking pictures of accidents can lead to extremly high fines and even two years of prison. So if you see an accident where police, ambulance, etc. is already there – move on. Don’t look and don’t brake to look!

Help When an Accident Happened

If you are one of the first persons witnessing a car accident and people are injured or seem to be injured – don’t drive away. You must help. Not doing this is considered as crime.

No Right Turn on Red in 99%

At a red traffic light, you’re only allowed to turn right when a green-arrow-sign allows it. These signs are rare and sometimes tiny, so unexperienced drivers are likely to oversee the sign.

No All-Way-Stops

There is no All-Way-Stop. When you’re driving in a residential area, and you’re not on a main road, you usually have to brake for all cars/bikes coming from the right. When three cars meet at the same time, the car opposite of you is allowed to go first, then the car right to you and then you. When 4 cars meet at the same time, the drivers have to “negotiate” who drives first.

Incognito Highway Police

The German highway police doesn’t often use police cars. They usually use regular cars with regular colors and plates. Of course these cars have a high powered engine to chase violators. So don’t be afraid to follow a normal car in front of you with a LED in the back window saying “Bitte folgen! – Please follow!”.

The Autobahn (Interstate Highway)

The Autobahn is not a specific interstate street with no speed limit. Autobahn is just the German word for highway and describes all German highways.

There are sections on the Autobahn with no speed limit, but there are as well many sections that have a speed limit. Often used speed limits are:

120 kilometers/hour – approx. 75 miles/hour (used at Autobahn intersections, curves, tunnels or in noise reduction zones)
100 kilometers/hour – approx. 62 miles/hour (used in narrow curves and at Autobahn intersections)
80 kilometers/hour – approx. 50 miles/hour (used in tunnels, construction sites, narrow curves and heavy traffic and nightly noise reduction zones)
60 kilometers/hour – approx. 38 miles/hour (used in construction sites and very heavy traffic/congestion)

When there is no speed limit on the Autobahn, you are allowed to drive as fast as you want or your car can. Of course this is not recommended if you are not used to high speeds above 100 mph.

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Travel FAQ: Essential Things to Know Before Visiting Munich

Andy — Mon, 08 Sep 2025 13:44:19 +0000

Munich is one of the safest cities in Europe and a must-see destination for travelers. With about 1.5 million inhabitants, the Bavarian capital combines vibrant city life with centuries-old traditions. The name Munich comes from Latin and means “place where monks live”, a reminder of its medieval history.

Beer Culture in Munich

Munich is known worldwide as the city of beer. The world-famous Oktoberfest is only one example of how beer is part of local culture and daily life.

Legal drinking age: 16 for beer and wine, 18 for spirits
Drinking in public: Having a cold one on the streets ist legal and completeely normal.
Family-friendly tradition: Alcoholic beverages are also served in restaurants where families dine.

My tip: Don’t miss to visit a traditional beer hall or one of Munich’s beer gardens. it is an essential Munich experience.

Transportation and Driving in Munich and Bavaria

Driving in Munich’s city center can be stressful: parking is scarce, streets are narrow, and local drivers are fast and direct. Germany’s strict driving schools ensure highly skilled drivers, which sometimes leads to aggressive driving styles.

On the other hand, you don’t need a (rental) car to visit the main sights of Munich, as the city has a very large public transportation system, consisting of urban rail (“S-Bahn”), subway (“U-Bahn”), tramway and buses.

My tip: Skip the car and use Munich’s public transportation system. A day pass is often the easiest and cheapest way to get around.

Seasonal Food and Traditions

Germany and Bavaria have specific national holidays that are celebrated. Other known festive days are not celebrated. For example Thanksgiving. On such days you won’t find specific restaurant menus, hotel decorations etc.

Munich Christmas Markets

Munich is especially charming during the holiday season. Christmas markets open around the end of November and transform the city into a festive wonderland. Don’t miss visitng a Christmas Market when you come to Munich from late November until Christmas Eve.

To find out about the best Christmas Markets in Munich and Hidden gems in the Alpine region, check out my article about Christmas Markets.

German Stereotypes

Many “German” stereotypes (lederhosen, dirndl, pretzels) are actually Bavarian traditions. After WWII, many American soldiers were stationed in Bavaria (until 1990) and brought these images back to the US. But they’ve seen only a small part of Germany with a very specific culture.

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Oktoberfest Dos and Don’ts for First Time Visitors

Andy — Mon, 08 Sep 2025 09:27:41 +0000

Visiting Oktoberfest for the first time? I bet you’re very excited. But with packed beer tents, deep-rooted traditions, and unspoken rules, a few missteps can derail your fun. No worries, I got you covered with this Oktoberfest Dos and Don’ts guide for first time visitors.

1. Call it Wiesn instead of Oktoberfest

While the festival’s official name is Oktoberfest, locals call it “Wiesn”. But what does “Wiesn” actually mean? The term is Bavarian dialect and is derived from the name of the festival grounds where Oktoberfest takes place. The site in the middle of Munich is called “Theresienwiese” or, translated, “Therese’s Meadow.” The meadow is named after Princess Therese, who married King Ludwig I of Bavaria (which is the origin of Oktoberfest). Since Bavarians are known for not talking too much, it’s not surprising that they shortened the term, as they often do. So here’s my pro tip: say “Wiesn” (pronounced “weezn”) instead of Oktoberfest to sound like a seasoned visitor and not like a tourist.

2. Bring Enough Cash

Most beer tents, stalls and rides do not accept Credit Cards. Make sure you have enough cash on you to pay for food, drinks and rides.

Of course there are ATM’s on the festival grounds, but expect very long waiting lines. You can use your time better. So plan ahead. You can check my article about the prices in the Oktoberfest beer tents 2025 to get a feeling what to expect. Pro tip: get smaller bills (like 5, 10 or 20 Euro bills), so you’re always ready to raise your Maß without waiting.

3. Learn A Few German And Bavarian terms for Oktoberfest

It is always polite to use a few words in the native language, when you travel abroad. Even if you do not speak fluent German, it will be a friendly opener for ordering and talking to others.

Here are some words you can use:

“Servus!” – Hello! Can also be used as Goodbye! (Bavarian)
“Eine Mass, bitte!” – One Mass (liter mug of beer) please! (German)
“Danke” – Thank you! (German)
“Prost” – Cheers! (German)

4. Know Your Limits When Drinking Oktoberfest-Beer

Oktoberfest-beer is a special and therefore stronger brew than the regular Munich beer. And it will be served in one liter mugs, which equals approximately two pints. So know your limits when drinking beer at Oktoberfest. Pro tip to not get drunk early: Either start with a “Radler-Maß” (which is a shandy, half sprite-like lemonade and half beer) or drink alcohol-free beer, which is also available. Also have a bite from time to time and pace yourself so you remember the fun – not the hangover.

5. Arrive Early For The Beer Tents

Beer tents and the whole Oktoberfest gets crowded in the afternoon and evening. So if you want the best experience with short waiting lines and free tables, try to arrive early. Best time to arrive is before noon. Beer tents often reach their maximum capacity by late afternoon and will be closed (no entrance).

Rule of thumb: Weekdays? Hit the tents before 2 PM. Weekends? Target noon, better 11 AM.

6. Boost Your Immune System

Crowds, literally Millions of people and drinking alcohol can get you catching a cold. So try to boost your immunge system beforhand. Get vitamins and maybe supplements for your health and also bring a jacket even if the weather is nice. Evenings in late September can get rather cold in Munich. If you like to learn more about Munich during fall, have a look at my article “Visiting Munich in Fall” – A Good Idea?”.

7. Do Not Bring Large Bags or Backpacks

Before entering the Oktoberfest grounds, you will encounter strict bag checks. Large bags or even backpacks are not allowed. Leave them at home or at your hotel. Small handbags are allowed, but will usually be checked. Keep in mind that any type of tool that can be used as weapon (e.g. pepper spray) will be confiscated and may even lead to the point you’re not allowed in.

8. Do Not Jug Beer In One Sip

One trend that is particularly popular among young male tourists is drinking an entire liter of beer in one go. This is usually done standing on a table, cheered on by other beer tent visitors. Please note that this is illegal and will result in immediate expulsion from the tent. And believe me, the tent security guards are not exactly on their best behavior when seeing such action.

9. Prepare To Sit With Strangers

Oktoberfest is a festival for all people. Especially the beer tents have traditional tables wich are designed for up to 10 people. So be prepared to share a table with other people you do not know. This is a great chance to meet locals or people from all over the world. Pro tip: If you are a tourists (and maybe not more than three persons) and love to chat with locals, look out for the most traditional looking people, dressed in very traditional clothes and usually with fancy hats and accesoires. When all of them wear the same traditional dresses, the chance is high you found an association which tries to keep culture and heritage alive. They are usually very friendly and are likely to share stories about Bavarian culture of their region while having a beer.

10. Do Not Use The Subway to Oktoberfest

The festival grounds have a subway station. First time visitors often make the mistake to take the subway there. It is possible and convenient, but your will face crowded trains, and often you will have to wait up to three trains as they reach maximum capacity and you can not enter the fully packed train. Also taking a taxi or Uber to the main entrance is not a good idea. The streets around Oktoberfest are fully packed and you still have to walk as no cars are allowed in the street directly next and around Oktoberfest. Do this instead:

Use the S-Bahn (urban rail) to Hackerbrücke station and follow the crowds for 15 minutes by foot.
Use the tramway to Holzapfelstraße station and walk for about 10-15 minutes
Use a Taxi or Uber, but tell the driver to bring you to the stations mentioned above

Pro Tip: To avoid the masses at the main entrance, take an extra 10 minute walk and enter either at the entrance of Bavaria Statue or at Matthias-Pschorr-Str. (eastern entrance).

Your Short Essential Check-List for Oktoberfest

Bring cash
Do not bring large bags
Learn basic German (and Bavarian) words
Use alternative public transport stations
Know your drinking limits
Boost your immune system beforehand

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Augustiner Beer Munich: Why Locals Love It

Andy — Sat, 22 Feb 2025 14:42:37 +0000

Disclaimer: I do not get any payment or benefits in any form from brands or companies that are featured in this article. This post is just about understanding the culture and the history behind the brands, companies and products.

If you’ve ever visited Munich, you’ve probably noticed something unique about the local beer culture: among all the famous breweries, one name consistently stands out—Augustiner. But what makes this beer so special? Unlike other brands that rely on flashy marketing campaigns and global sponsorships, Augustiner thrives on tradition, quality, and a quiet defiance of modern trends. It’s a beer that seems to reject the Zeitgeist, yet ironically, it embodies exactly what people crave today—authenticity, craftsmanship, and a deep connection to its roots.

A Brewery That Has Stood the Test of Time

Founded in 1328 by Augustinian monks, Augustiner is Munich’s oldest brewery. For nearly 700 years, it has been brewing beer with the same commitment to quality, long before beer became a mass-produced commodity.

Unlike many modern breweries that have been bought by global corporations, Augustiner remains independently owned—a rarity in today’s brewing world. This independence allows it to prioritize quality over quantity, maintaining its original brewing techniques and refusing to compromise on taste.

But what really sets Augustiner apart is its unapologetic commitment to tradition. While other breweries chase trends—craft beer experiments, flavored lagers, and aggressive marketing campaigns—Augustiner stays the course. No gimmicks, no limited-edition releases, no flashy branding. Just damn good beer. And somehow, this refusal to conform makes it even more relevant in today’s world.

Fun Fact

Worldwide you can find graffiti with the number 1312 (ACAB). In Munich you will find graffiti with 1328 (Augustiner).

No Marketing, No Problem – The Augustiner Paradox

It’s almost unheard of for a beer brand to be this popular without a massive advertising budget. Augustiner doesn’t run TV commercials, doesn’t flood social media with influencer collaborations, and doesn’t put its name on football stadiums. And yet, in Munich, its logo is everywhere—from beer halls to backstreet Wirtshäuser, from family gatherings to festivals.

So, how does it stay so popular? Because people trust it.

Word of Mouth – Augustiner doesn’t need advertising; locals recommend it passionately. In Munich, drinking Augustiner is a sign of good taste.
Quality Over Hype – In an era of marketing tricks, Augustiner stands for consistency and craftsmanship. It doesn’t need to reinvent itself every few years—it’s already perfect.
The Rebellious Spirit – In a way, Augustiner’s lack of marketing is its marketing. By refusing to follow the modern rules of branding, it has become a symbol of authenticity, attracting those who crave something real in an over-commercialized world.
Keeping the “Gemütlichkeit” alive. Gemütlichkeit is a German term that’s hard to translate into English. A one to one translation would be “coziness”, but Gemütlichkeit means a lot more to Bavarians. It’s the relaxing feeling you have, when you go out to a beer hall and enjoy the cozy atmosphere with close friends while having deep talks and the oompah band plays traditional songs that make you feel like your Bavarian ancestors are giving you a loving hug of tradition and heritage from the other side. Augustiner tries to keep this feeling alive in all its beer halls and restaurants.

Ironically, by rejecting the Zeitgeist, Augustiner has ended up defining it. In a time when people are turning away from mass production and seeking out traditional, high-quality products, Augustiner represents everything they’re looking for—without ever trying to.

The Brewing Secret: Time, Patience, and the Best Ingredients

Augustiner follows the centuries-old Reinheitsgebot (German Beer Purity Law), using only water, malt, hops, and yeast. But it’s not just about the ingredients—it’s about how they’re used.

Slow Fermentation & Longer Maturation – While many large breweries rush the brewing process for more output, Augustiner allows its beers to mature longer, resulting in a smoother, richer taste.
Locally Sourced Ingredients – The brewery uses pure Alpine water and carefully selected Bavarian hops and malt, ensuring a consistent and high-quality product.
Brewed with Tradition – Unlike modern breweries that constantly tweak their recipes, Augustiner sticks to what has worked for centuries—because why fix what isn’t broken?
Not giving up brewing traditions, like filling the beer in traditional wooden barrels, giving the beer a fresher and slightly different taste.

Did you know?

Locals call Augustiner lager "August" or just "Gustl". The dark double bock" Maximator" is called by the locals "Maxl".

Why Locals Love Augustiner

f you ask any Münchner which beer they prefer, most will say Augustiner. Not because it’s trendy, but because it’s simply a good beer without any fancy stuff.

A symbol of tradition – Augustiner represents the old Munich, a time before mass production and global marketing. And this is something more and more people seek for in a globally connected, fast turning world.
Consistent, reliable, and delicious – No gimmicks, no artificial flavors—just high-quality beer, brewed the way it’s meant to be.
A rebellion against the modern Beer industry – By refusing to follow corporate trends, Augustiner has become a cult favorite for those who appreciate authenticity.

Did you know?

The J.W. stands for the former owner Josef Wagner. The bishops`s crook in the middle stands for the monks of the Augustine Order who began brewing beer.

Final Thoughts: The Beer That Doesn’t Need to Try

In a world where brands constantly chase the latest trends, Augustiner does the exact opposite—and that’s precisely why it remains Munich’s most beloved beer.

No flashy commercials, no social media campaigns, no desperate attempts to appeal to the masses. Just good beer, brewed the same way for centuries.

So, if you’re in Munich, grab a cold Augustiner, raise your glass, and enjoy a beer that doesn’t need hype to be great. Prost!

Where To Drink Augustiner Beer in Munich

In Munich, you will find a lot of traditional restaurants and pubs that serve Augustiner beer. But Augustiner also owns restaurants. The best known are:

Augustiner Keller (with huge beer garden, near Main Station)
Augsutiner Stammhaus (Augustiner’s Original Building in the heart of Munich’s Old Town)
Augustiner am Platzl (Right across the street from famous Hofbräuhaus)
Augustiner am Dom (next to the Church of Our Lady)
Augustiner Klosterwirt (also next to the Church of Our Lady)
Haidhauser Augustiner (Located in the “French Quarter” of Haidhausen district, near Munich East Station)
Augustiner Bräustuben (The Brewery Restaurant, right next to the Brewery)
Augustiner Bürgerheim (Located in Laim district)
Neuhauser Augustiner (Located in Neuhausen district)
Augustiner Am Dante (also in Neuhausen district near the Western Cemetary and Dantebad public swimmingpool)
Augustiner Spieglwirt (Located in Moosach District)
Haderner Augustiner (Located in Grosshadern District)

Frequently Asked Questions - FAQ

What is the oldest brewery in Munich?

Augustiner is the oldest brewery in Munich. It was founded in 1328. There are older breweries in Bavaria like Klosterbrauerei Weltenburg (year 1050) and the Bavarian State Brewery Weihenstephan near Munich (approx around the year 720).

Is Augustiner available outside Germany?

There are some restaurants and pubs serving Augustiner beer outside of Germany, especially in Autria and SOuth Tyrol (Northern Italy). Augustiner baerely makes it to the UK, the USA or Australia or New Zealand. Sometimes, local pubs outside of Germany order a keg for special occasions like Oktoberfest. Therefore, if you see Augustiner beers in your local pub – hurry, it can be gone in no time.

What does the J.W. on the Augustiner logo mean?

The J.W. stands for the former owner Josef Wagner.

Is Augustiner a tradtional Munich beer?

Yes, it definitely is. Augustiner is part of the “traditional 6 Munich breweries” (Augustiner, Hacker-Pschorr, Hofbräu, Löwenbräu, Paulaner, Spaten)

Which types of beer does Augustiner have?

Helles (the standard lager)
Helles non-alcoholic (the alcohol-free* lager)
*please be aware that alcohol free means it contains still up to 0.5% alcohol)
Edelstoff (a bit stronger than the regular lager and a bit sweeter in taste)
Heller Bock (a strong lager with 7.5% alc.)
Wheat Beer (Augustiner’s wheat beer)
Pils (Augustiner also produces Pilsner style beer with a dry hop bitterness)
Oktoberfestbier (Augustiner’s special brew for Oktoberfest season. A lager with 6.3% alc.)
Maximator (Augustiner’s special beer for Starkbier season)
Dunkel (the dark lager from Augustiner with a nice malty note)

Other Ressources

Official Augustiner Website with information about the brewery, Oktoberferst tent, the different beers and history of the brewery: www.augustiner-braeu.de/en

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