Oktoberfest 2025: How Munich and Other German Cities Like Nuremberg, Karlsruhe, and Salzburg Are Benefiting From the Festival Boom

Published on September 24, 2025

Oktoberfest 2025 is drawing massive crowds, bringing in millions of visitors, both international and domestic, with Munich leading the charge. The three-week festival, which runs from September 20 to October 5, is not just a celebration of Bavarian culture but also a driving force behind soaring hotel prices and occupancy rates across Munich and other cities like Nuremberg, Karlsruhe, and Salzburg. With the surge in demand, local hotels are seeing record-breaking occupancy levels and rising prices, far exceeding normal rates. This article explores how Munich’s hospitality sector is thriving during this event and how other southern German and Austrian cities are also benefiting from this beer-fueled boom.

Oktoberfest’s Strong Demand Impact on Munich Hotels

Munich is the heart of Oktoberfest, and in 2025, it’s poised to surpass the record-breaking attendance of 2023, when 7.2 million people visited the city. Demand indicators for this year suggest even more visitors are on their way, with an especially significant increase during the opening and closing weekends. Hotel bookings are showing a 4% rise for the opening weekend, and the final weekend of Oktoberfest shows an 11% increase in demand compared to the previous year.

For hotels in Munich, this translates into full occupancy and sky-high prices. Peak occupancy is expected to hit 92% on Thursday, September 25. During the festival’s busiest week, the average price for a hotel room is expected to soar to €415 per night, a staggering 153% increase from the annual average. This is a notable surge, underscoring how Oktoberfest contributes to Munich’s hospitality economy. On average, hotel room prices across the festival period will be €357, marking a 20% increase compared to Oktoberfest 2024.

A Boost in Domestic Tourism

An interesting trend in 2025 is the rise in domestic tourism, with Germans opting to vacation within their own country. By the first half of the year, overnight stays by domestic travelers increased by 0.8%, helping to offset the 3.2% drop in international visitors. This shift in travel habits has further bolstered demand for hotels during the festival.

Additionally, many visitors are extending their stays beyond Oktoberfest itself. Demand for hotels before and after the event is also high, with indicators showing an upsurge in bookings in the days leading up to September 20 and lasting well into October. This extended interest offers hotels an opportunity to capitalize on longer stays through strategic pricing and marketing.

The Ripple Effect Across Other Cities

Though Munich enjoys the bulk of the attention during Oktoberfest, other cities across Germany and Austria are experiencing significant boosts in tourism thanks to Oktoberfest-inspired festivals.

Nuremberg, Augsburg, and Karlsruhe

Cities like Nuremberg, Augsburg, and Karlsruhe are seeing substantial increases in hotel prices during Oktoberfest. Nuremberg, just a short drive from Munich, is witnessing its hotel room rates increase by 59% during the festival’s opening week. This surge is indicative of the region’s growing appeal during Oktoberfest, attracting tourists eager to experience a taste of Bavarian culture without staying in Munich itself.

Augsburg is also benefiting from higher hotel prices, with an increase of about 30% above its annual average during the festival. Likewise, Karlsruhe is seeing its highest hotel prices of the year, with standard room rates in late September 2025 reaching €149, marking a 43% increase compared to the annual average.

Salzburg: Austria’s Oktoberfest Impact

Beyond Germany, Salzburg, Austria, is also feeling the positive effects of Oktoberfest. Although not officially hosting Oktoberfest, Salzburg celebrates Rupertikirtag, an annual festival that coincides with Oktoberfest. During this time, hotel prices in Salzburg peak at €266 per night, 35% higher than the city’s average. This proves that the reach of Oktoberfest-like events extends beyond Munich’s borders, benefiting neighboring regions as well.

Strategies for Hoteliers: Maximizing Revenue During Oktoberfest

For hoteliers, Oktoberfest presents a golden opportunity to capitalize on the surge in demand. One of the most effective strategies is dynamic pricing, which involves adjusting room rates based on real-time market conditions. By continuously updating rates to reflect demand fluctuations, hoteliers can optimize their revenue during peak periods.

Additionally, embracing longer stays can increase overall profitability. Many guests are booking extended trips before or after Oktoberfest, so offering packages or promotions targeting this demand could boost occupancy and drive more bookings.

What Should Travelers Do to Make the Most of Oktoberfest?

For travelers heading to Oktoberfest 2025, planning ahead is essential to make the most of their experience. Here are some tips to ensure a smooth trip:

1. Book Accommodation Early: Given the high demand, it’s crucial to book hotels well in advance. Look for properties in nearby cities like Nuremberg or Augsburg if you can’t find availability in Munich.
2. Consider Staying Before or After the Festival: Hotels typically offer lower rates in the days before and after the main event. Consider extending your trip to experience Munich and other nearby cities without the heavy crowds.
3. Be Ready for Peak Prices: Understand that hotel prices will be significantly higher during Oktoberfest. Use dynamic pricing tools to compare prices and find the best deals during the festival.
4. Explore Local Festivals: While Munich’s Oktoberfest is the largest, other cities like Salzburg and Nuremberg offer their own Oktoberfest-inspired festivals, often with fewer crowds but similar charm.
5. Embrace Local Culture: Oktoberfest is about more than just beer; it’s a celebration of Bavarian culture. Try the local food, attend traditional events, and enjoy the atmosphere.

The Bigger Picture: The Economic Boost

Oktoberfest provides a significant economic boost not only for Munich but also for other cities in Germany and Austria. Hotels, restaurants, transport services, and local businesses see a surge in demand, translating into increased revenues across the board. For travelers, this period offers a chance to experience the vibrant culture of southern Germany and Austria while enjoying one of the world’s largest and most famous festivals.

In summary, Oktoberfest 2025 promises to be a major event for the hospitality industry, with Munich leading the way in hotel occupancy and pricing. However, cities like Nuremberg, Augsburg, Karlsruhe, and Salzburg are also reaping the benefits of the festival’s economic ripple effect. Hoteliers who leverage dynamic pricing and extended stays can make the most of this lucrative period, while travelers can enjoy the cultural festivities while being mindful of higher prices and early booking requirements.