Security Alert: Munich (Germany), Safety Around Oktoberfest

The U.S. Consulate General in Munich wants to make sure you're prepared to have a safe and wonderful Oktoberfest.

Check out these helpful tips and videos to have a safe and fun time!  You can also share this information using the following QR code:

BEFORE YOU GO

• Keep your family and friends informed of your travel plans.
• Sign up for STEP so we can better assist you in case of an emergency. For more information visit our STEP website and sign up today!

AT OKTOBERFEST

1. Carry copies of your passport and ID and beware of pickpocketing.  Take a copy--leave your actual passport secured back at your hotel or hostel.
2. Observe local laws.  German police are allowed to charge fines on the spot.  Special note: The Bavarian authorities have a zero-tolerance policy on illegal drugs.
3. Beer mugs are not souvenirs.  Taking beer mugs from Oktoberfest tents is a crime. You can purchase official mugs that are approved to leave the grounds.
4. German beer is strong.  Oktoberfest beer is stronger than American beer! One "Mass" (one liter of beer) has as much alcohol as four cans of domestic beer. 
5. E-Scooters + alcohol = bad idea. And a crime--resulting in arrest and a 4,000 Euro fine! Play it safe and use public transportation or taxis.
6. If you need help, go to the Oktoberfest Service Center for Lost and Found, Police, and First Aid services.
7. Sichere Wiesn operates a Safe Space for women and girls who feel threatened, harassed, or simply need information, help, or advice.

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF…?

I lost my passport…

• Apply for a replacement at U.S. Consulate Munich.  You will need to bring $165 (or Euro equivalent), a passport photo, and picture ID.

I lost my money…

• Contact your family/friends and ask them to send you money via Western Union (available online 24/7).  You can pick up the money either at a Reisebank (located at major train stations or airports) or at the German post office.

I lost my credit card…

• Call your credit card company to report it lost or stolen.
• VISA: 0800-811-8440
• Mastercard: +1-800-627-8372 (USA)
• AMEX: +1-336-393-1111 (USA)

I need other assistance…

• U.S. Consulate Munich can provide information on local resources available to help you, including hospitals, doctors, and English-speaking lawyers.

 VIEL SPASS AUF DEM OKTOBERFEST!  HAVE FUN AT OKTOBERFEST!

U.S. CONSULATE GENERAL MUNICH

Koeniginstrasse 5, 80539 Munich, Federal Republic of Germany

Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(49) 89-2888-0

NEW! Many common questions are answered by our U.S. Citizen Services Navigator, Passport Navigator, or Visa Navigator.