THE BEST AUTUMN EVENTS IN GERMANY

This autumn, Germany will be welcoming millions of international visitors for two of the country’s most anticipated annual events: Munich’s world-famous beer festival, Oktoberfest, and Berlin’s glittering Festival of Lights.

Oktoberfest has long been a highlight of Munich’s cultural calendar , ever since its royal inception back in 1810. This year it takes place between 16th September – 3rd October. Famed, of course, for its distinguished German beers and local delicacies like brezen (pretzels) and würstel (sausages), Oktoberfest has so much more to offer beyond its 16 ale tents. One of the most popular parts of the festival is the spectacular Costume and Rifleman’s Parade, an elegant procession of marching bands in full Bavarian costume, accompanied by thoroughbred horses and oxen. To help you look the part, our exclusive Oktoberfest package offers a bespoke, made-to-measure dirndl from traditional costume designer, Dirndl Liebe.

For younger visitors, Oktoberfest offers exciting fairground attractions, while oenophiles will have the opportunity to sample excellent still and sparkling German wine. Beyond Oktoberfest, Munich has a wealth of captivating galleries and museums to explore.

Further north, Germany’s capital comes alive with colour from 6th – 15th October. Berlin’s legendary landmarks are gloriously illuminated in shimmering hues during the Festival of Lights. The spectacle is something to behold, transforming the city after sunset into an art gallery like no other.

Videos and graphic art are projected onto over 25 historical buildings like the Brandenburg Gate, Funkturm and Berlin Cathedral, providing an incredible array of canvases for these unique illuminations. You can explore the multi-hued monuments on foot, by boat, or even see the highlights on a guided LightSeeing Tour. Now in its 11th year, Festival of Lights is a superlative way to see Berlin from a new perspective.

If you’re planning to visit either event, we’ve put together a few extra indulgences, so you can experience them in the upmost luxury:

Fully embrace the Bavarian spirit this Oktoberfest at the sumptuous Charles Hotel with our Oktoberfest package, including a bespoke dirndl and 1-night stay in a Classic room for two at The Charles Hotel, just fifteen minutes’ walk from the Oktoberfest celebrations.

To compliment your Festival of Lights visit, Hotel de Rome’s magnificent Celebration Experience package offers the perfect stay. When you book one or more nights with us, we’ll suitably spoil you with a chilled bottle of Champagne and indulgent box of chocolates in your room, as well as a delicious daily breakfast.

Image credits:

iStock/Sebastian-julian / iStock/NatashaBreen / iStock/Kamisoka / Festival of Lights International Productions GmbH/Frank Hermann  / Festival of Lights / International Productions GmbH/Nelofee / Festival of Lights International Productions GmbH/Frank Hermann

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