The most famous and popular Oktoberfest in the world is in Munich, Germany, but this isn’t the only place that celebrates German traditions, food, and beer in Europe in the fall. If you’ve been loyal to your local Oktoberfest celebration back home year after year and are looking for a different way to celebrate, why not plan a trip to Europe? There are obviously lots of cities and towns in Germany that celebrate the holiday, but also many other countries that get in the festive spirit too. Here are the top Oktoberfest destinations worth traveling for in Europe.
Munich, Germany - Oktoberfest
No European Oktoberfest list would be complete without first mentioning the big event in Munich. This classic Oktoberfest celebration draws in millions of visitors each year and is held on the grounds of Theresienwiese. Traditional Oktoberfest clothes are a must when you attend the Munich event. The opening ceremonies take place at the Schottenhamel tent, and there is no entrance fee to enter the area or the beer tents. These tents fill up quickly, so you may want to make a reservation for your spot in advance. Key events to check out are the parade of the landlords and breweries and the Official Tapping of the Keg. Other German Oktoberfest destinations worth checking out if you’re doing a fall tour of the country are Stuttgart, Hamburg, and Berlin.
Vienna, Austria - Wiener Wiesn-Fest
Another great place to celebrate Oktoberfest in Europe is Vienna, Austria. Here, you’ll find a giant Ferris wheel, live music by folk groups, and hours of live music to enjoy. There will be lots of local beer and food on-site, including wiener schnitzel and brettljause. Learn about Austrian customs and traditions, visit the open-air festival stage and visit Wiesn Village with local craftsmanship and regional culinary treats.
London, United Kingdom - London Oktoberfest
Not surprisingly, London also has an excellent Oktoberfest atmosphere, with several festivals held around town. Tens of thousands of visitors come to dress up in traditional costumes, play traditional Oktoberfest games, and enjoy delicious foods and drinks. You can attend the event in Millwall Park, Canary Wharf, or the Olympia London West Kensington event (which also doubles as a Halloween special), while a central London event takes place in November. Other Oktoberfest destinations in the United Kingdom worth looking into take place in Manchester and Glasgow.
Gdansk, Poland - Gdansk Oktoberfest
We also recommend heading to Poland to check out the Oktoberfest celebration in Gdansk. Brovarnia puts on this event and features some great German beers and local brews as well. The Oktoberfest celebration here kicks off and features a delicious menu of sausages, sauerkraut, pork chops, pork knuckle, smoked apples, and beer ice cream. It takes place in a festive beer tent; the staff are dressed in traditional outfits, and special gift sets are available for purchase as souvenirs.
Edinburgh, Scotland - Edinburgh Oktoberfest
Edinburgh, Scotland, also hosts an Oktoberfest in a tent next to West Princes Street Gardens. The area is transformed into a traditional Oktoberfest, complete with live Bavarian music from traditional Oompa music to great German Schlager. Specially brewed Bavarian beer will be served along with German foods like pretzels, schnitzel and bratwurst.
Stockholm, Sweden - Stockholm Oktoberfest
You might be surprised to learn that Stockholm, Sweden, also has an exciting Oktoberfest event, and this is one that you’ll definitely want to dress up for. Many people rent costumes to attend the event, and thousands of people attend each year. The event takes place at Gärdet, Lindarängsvägen in Stockholm and is one of the earliest Oktoberfest celebrations in Europe in August. At this annual event, you’ll find beer, pop music, and the famous “Heidi” models who are stunningly beautiful. Beer, cider, and food are for sale, and advance tickets are not required.
