How to go to Oktoberfest
How I did it: It was kind of easy since I live in Germany. In order to avoid the crazy Oktoberfest prices we stayed in Augsburg. It was still kind of an expensive hotel at about 200 EUR a night. I looked at others but they were booked up, and even in Augsburg most hotels were going for about 100 EUR. Also I booked less than a month out. We stayed at the Dorint in Augsburg. A very nice, modern hotel.
To get to Munich we took the train which was about a 10-15 min walk from the hotel. They have a Bavarian ticket for sale at the main train station (Hauptbahnhof). Strongly recommend getting it. It cost only 27 EUR can support up to 5 people and it can take you on all RB, RE, S and U-bahn trains, and all buses in all of Bavaria for one day. It was still cheaper than buying two round trip tickets just to Munich and back from Augsburg. Just make sure you pick up a train schedule and pay attention to when the last train leaves Munich for Augsburg. Make sure you're on the train or you will be stranded until morning unless you want to take an expensive cab ride.
When we got there we just followed the crowds. Everyone gets off the train and starts walking to the fest grounds. Once you get there you'll know it. It was freaking awesome! I have been to other fests in Germany and none I have been to compare to this.
I highly recommend the Paulaner Beer Hall. Find a table quick as it is one of the more popular. If you can with a big group of people and can't find a table together, don't sweat it. Split up and ask if you can sit at a table. Most people are nice and will let you. If they happen to be German, not likely, they will be glad. Just don't make an ass of yourself. It is typical to just start chatting with others at the table, it's part of the international experience.
Order a Maß of beer. They only serve on kind. It was delicious. Kind of a sweet aftertaste and it goes down really smooth. I had two and a half liters. Ask for a menu, order some sort of food, just make sure you get Knödel.
After experiencing a beer or two go wonder around the fest grounds. They have all kinds of games to play rides to ride and crap to buy. If you are with your girl, it is customary to buy a gingerbread heart for her. It is also fun because they have to wear it around their neck the rest of the night.
All in all Oktoberfest was one of the best experiences in my life and I hate that I put it off so long. I hopefully will make it back for another in the future.
