Every September, Munich transforms into the world’s largest beer festival hub as millions of visitors pour into the city for Oktoberfest.
Alongside the festive atmosphere, one thing consistently shocks newcomers and regulars alike: the astronomical rise in accommodation costs.
Hotels and private rentals see prices multiply, turning even the most modest sleeping arrangements into expensive commodities.
Air mattress for hundreds of euros
One of the most striking examples comes from a couple living near Theresienwiese, the heart of Oktoberfest.
They decided to convert their 30-square-meter living room into a temporary dormitory. Up to six guests can stay on inflatable mattresses, with access limited to an additional fridge instead of the kitchen.
The price tag? On the festival’s opening Saturday, one mattress costs €400 per night.
Renting the entire space for a group of six jumps to €920 per night. During weekdays, the full room is listed for a still-hefty €799.
Shared rooms at premium prices
The phenomenon is not limited to a single case. Platforms such as Airbnb, Booking.com, and Kleinanzeigen feature numerous listings with equally ambitious pricing.
A shared apartment room between Munich Central Station and the festival grounds is also advertised at €400 per night—plus service fees.
In Sendling, a shared room goes for €1,300 for two weeks, while in Dachau, a furnished room covering the Oktoberfest period is offered for nearly €2,900.
From couches to luxury villas
Not all offers are basic. In one single-room apartment near Harras, visitors are asked to pay €120 per night for a spot on the couch. On the other end of the spectrum, premium rentals are booming as well.
A villa in the district of Solln with a garden pavilion is available for around €1,200 per night, marketed as a private retreat away from the crowded festival grounds.
Beyond accommodation: rising Oktoberfest costs
For festival-goers, the challenges extend beyond finding an affordable bed. The overall Oktoberfest experience has become a costly affair, with food and beverage prices climbing year after year.
For many visitors, Munich’s biggest event is no longer just about beer and Bavarian culture—it’s also about navigating one of the toughest accommodation markets in Europe.
