My wife, two daughters, and I embarked on a memorable trip to Munich from September 27 to October 1, 2025, centered around the vibrant energy of Oktoberfest. As a family of four, we balanced the festival’s lively atmosphere with cultural excursions, making it a perfect blend of fun and exploration. We redeemed 23,000 World of Hyatt points per night for our stay, plus a suite upgrade award, which elevated our experience significantly. Below, I’ll break it down into a day-by-day itinerary, hotel insights, packing essentials, cost estimates, and some lesser-known spots we discovered or recommend for families.

Hotel Review: Andaz Munich Schwabinger Tor – A Family-Friendly Luxury Haven

Spacious suite at Andaz Munich Schwabinger Tor, perfect for families.

We chose the Andaz Munich Schwabinger Tor for its modern vibe and convenient location in the Schwabing district, just a short Uber ride from key attractions like the BMW Museum and Oktoberfest grounds. As Hyatt Globalists, we enjoyed perks like early check-in at 11:30 AM on arrival day and complimentary breakfast – though the happy hour in the lobby was open to all guests and a nice bonus.

Our suite was an absolute highlight: around 1,000 square feet with a separate living area, king bed, and plenty of space for the kids. The rollaway bed we requested was set up in the living room, and one night, our daughter even cozied up in a bay window nook with pillows. The bathroom featured a large freestanding bathtub where both girls splashed around happily. Non-alcoholic minibar drinks were free, and the room’s designer touches – like custom artwork and floor-to-ceiling windows – made it feel luxurious yet welcoming. The staff was incredibly accommodating, from handling our luggage to suggesting family-friendly spots. Pros: Spacious rooms, great breakfast spread, rooftop bar with views. Cons: A bit removed from the old town (about 15-20 minutes by public transport), and dinner at the on-site Lonely Broccoli restaurant was pricey (though worth it for the dry-aged steak). We’d definitely return – it’s excellent value on points, equivalent to about €400-500 cash per night during peak season.

Day-by-Day Itinerary: 5 Days in Munich with Kids

We structured our trip around Oktoberfest while incorporating day trips and low-key activities to keep things manageable for the family. Public transport (like the U-Bahn) was efficient, but we used Ubers for convenience with the kids.

Bustling Marienplatz with shops and eateries.

After an early check-in at the Andaz, we headed straight to Marienplatz, Munich’s central square, via a quick 15-minute U-Bahn ride. The kids loved watching the Glockenspiel chime at noon, with its colorful figures dancing to Bavarian tunes. We strolled the pedestrian zone, picking up souvenirs like pretzel-shaped keychains and sampling street food – fresh bratwurst sausages (€5 each) and soft pretzels from a vendor stall. Shopping highlights included a stop at a toy store for wooden puzzles and a quick browse at department stores for affordable lederhosen outfits for the girls (around €30 each). Back at the hotel by 5 PM for happy hour: Self-serve drinks (beer, wine, sodas) and snacks like cheese platters and nuts in the lobby – a relaxed way to unwind. Dinner at the Lonely Broccoli: We splurged on the dry-aged steak (€45), shared salads, and kid-friendly pasta, totaling about €150 for the family. The ambiance was upscale but not stuffy.

Day 2: Fairytale Castles Day Trip (September 28)

We started with a hearty breakfast at the hotel’s Bicicletta restaurant (included for Globalists): An impressive buffet with granolas, alternative milks, fresh-pressed hazelnut-chocolate spread for “homemade Nutella,” pre-cut fruits, eggs, bacon, and pastries.

schlosslinderhof.de

hohenschwangau.de

Then, a full-day bus tour to Schloss Linderhof Palace and Neuschwanstein Castle (booked via Viator for about €70/adult, €35/child). The 2-hour drive each way was scenic through Bavarian countryside, with stops for photos. At Linderhof, we toured the opulent rooms and wandered the gardens, catching the fountain show every half hour – the kids were mesmerized by the golden statues and water jets. Neuschwanstein felt like stepping into a Disney movie; we hiked the short path to Marienbrücke bridge for panoramic views (a bit crowded, but worth it).

Evening dinner at Augustiner-Keller beer garden: Reservations essential as it was packed. We feasted on hearty pork knuckles (€18), sausages, and massive 1-liter beers (€15 each) – the kids had apple juice in mini steins and played in the outdoor area.

Day 3: Immersing in Oktoberfest (September 29)

Family enjoying time inside an Oktoberfest beer tent.

A 20-minute Uber (€15) dropped us near the Europa Hotel Senator for easy access to the north end. We had reserved a table in one of the large tents (like Hacker-Festzelt) for 10 people, including 20 beer vouchers – cost about €500 total, split if with friends, but we used it for our group. Security is strict: No bags larger than a small purse (we checked ours for €3). Inside, the atmosphere was electric with oompah bands, singing, and dancing on benches. We redeemed vouchers for beers and half-chickens (€15 each), plus pretzels and radler (lemonade-beer mix for lighter drinking). After a few hours, I took the kids outside to the carnival rides – bumper cars, Ferris wheel, and a mini roller coaster (rides €5-8 each, paid via Apple Pay). The grounds have family zones with stroller parking and changing facilities, making it doable with little ones.

Day 4: Automotive History and Rooftop Vibes (September 30)

Colorful exhibits at the BMW Museum.

A quick 5-minute Uber (€8) to the BMW Museum, where we spent the morning exploring exhibits on BMW’s history, from classic cars to futuristic concepts. The family ticket (€36) covered us all; the kids enjoyed the interactive displays and seeing race cars up close. Afternoon back at the hotel for rest, then up to the M’Uniqo rooftop bar. The top level was closed due to wind, but the indoor bar offered signature cocktails with apricot, apple, and plum flavors (€15 each) and partial views of Oktoberfest lights. We chatted with locals and business travelers – a sophisticated end to the day.

Day 5: Departure (October 1)

A relaxed morning with breakfast before heading to the airport. We reflected on the trip’s highlights over coffee, already planning a return.

Packing List and Gear Recommendations for Oktoberfest with Kids

Munich in late September can be chilly (50-65°F), with rain possible, so layers are key. For Oktoberfest, comfortable shoes for walking and small bags only.

• Clothing: Lightweight jackets, jeans, sweaters. For the festival: Lederhosen or dirndls for fun (kids’ versions are cute and affordable).
• Essentials: Reusable water bottles, snacks for kids, portable charger, rain ponchos. Small crossbody bag or fanny pack (no backpacks at tents).
• For Kids: Diaper bag alternatives (if needed), hats, sunscreen, comfort toys. We brought noise-canceling headphones for the loud tents.
• Gear: Stroller for younger kids (Oktoberfest has parking), travel adapter, credit cards (Apple Pay widely accepted at rides).
• Pro Tip: Pack light – we used hotel laundry service mid-trip.

Budget Tips and Cost Breakdown for a Family of 4

Oktoberfest inflates prices, but using points for lodging saved us big. Total estimated spend: €1,800-2,200 (excluding flights). Break it down per category:

Category	Estimated Cost (€)	Tips to Save
Accommodation (4 nights)	0 (92,000 points + upgrade; cash equiv. €1,600-2,000)	Redeem points; book early for deals.
Food & Drinks	500	Eat at beer gardens (€50-80/meal); use vouchers in tents. Breakfast included at hotel.
Transportation	150	Day passes for U-Bahn (€12/family); Ubers for convenience (€10-20/ride). Kids under 6 ride free on public transport.
Attractions & Tours	400	Castle tour €210 total; BMW €36; Oktoberfest free entry, but rides €50. Book tours online for discounts.
Oktoberfest Tent Reservation	500	Split with a group; includes food/drink vouchers worth €300+.
Misc (Souvenirs, Bag Check)	150	Shop at markets for bargains; use credit cards for no-fee payments.

Budget hack: Focus on free activities like Marienplatz people-watching. Avoid peak weekend tents for lower crowds and costs.

Local Experiences and Off-the-Beaten-Path Spots

Beyond the main sights, we sought authentic vibes. At Marienplatz, detour to Viktualienmarkt for fresh produce and a picnic – try Obatzda cheese spread on bread. For families, the English Garden is a hidden gem: Rent bikes (€10/hour) or watch surfers on the Eisbach wave. We didn’t make it, but next time we’d visit Hirschgarten, Europe’s largest beer garden with a deer enclosure for kids. Augustiner-Keller felt local with its chestnut trees and playground nearby. Pro tip: Arrive early at Oktoberfest for family-friendly hours before 6 PM when it gets rowdier.

This trip was a fantastic mix of culture, festivity, and family time – highly recommend Munich for parents seeking adventure without overwhelming chaos!