Tipping at Oktoberfest: What You Need to Know

If you’re heading to Munich for Oktoberfest, the fun part isn’t just the beer – it’s also making sure you tip the right amount. German tipping is easy once you get the basics. Below you’ll find clear, practical advice so you can focus on the music, the pretzels, and the good vibes.

How Much to Tip

At most beer tents, the staff expect a small tip rather than a fixed percentage. A good rule of thumb is to round up the bill to the nearest euro or add about 5‑10 % for a table service. If you order a single Maß (one liter of beer) that costs €12, leaving €13 is perfectly fine. For a larger order, say three Maß and a plate of sausages costing €40, rounding up to €44‑45 shows appreciation.

Waiters who bring your drinks to the table usually appreciate a quick “Danke!” and a €1‑€2 tip per person. When you’re at a food stall, you can drop a €1 coin on the counter after paying. The same goes for the staff at the beer garden’s snack bar – a euro or two is a nice gesture.

If you’re sitting at a table with a group, consider splitting the tip evenly. This avoids awkward conversations later and makes sure everyone feels the tip is fair.

Cash vs. Card and Other Tips

Most tents still prefer cash tips. Even if you pay the bill with a card, keep some euros handy for the tip. Staff can’t always add a tip to a card payment, and cash makes it simple for them.

When you do use a card, some terminals let you add a tip at the end. Look for a prompt that says “Trinkgeld” (tip) and type in the amount you want. If the terminal doesn’t ask, just give cash.

Don’t worry about over‑tipping. A few extra euros won’t hurt anyone, and it shows you enjoyed the service. On the other hand, leaving nothing at all can feel rude, especially if the staff went out of their way to keep your drink topped up.

One more thing: watch out for “service charge” signs. Some high‑end venues add a small service fee to the bill. If you see a 5 % fee already included, you can skip an extra tip or keep it minimal.

Enjoying Oktoberfest is all about relaxing and soaking up the atmosphere. With these simple tipping rules, you’ll have one less thing to think about and can focus on the music, the food, and the unforgettable beer. Prost!