From Fjords to Fiats

[OZDUCK]

Esslingen is a very pretty little town. We have been there twice. The last time was in Nov. 2023 to visit the Medieval Christmas Market.

 

[RB]

Around Esslingen

Esslingen Germany - travel guide and information from German Sights

We had 3 nights here where we had Aussie mates as company & our main activity was the Cannstatter Volkfest-Stuttgart Beer Festival. Cannstatter Volksfest | Stuttgart Beer Festival Guide
We had previously visited the Munich Oktoberfest so we had an understanding of what to expect but I think our mates were a bit surprised by the physical size of the facility and the size & age structure of the attendees. From our apartment we a short walk then a 15 minute non-stop train ride and then a 10 minute walk with the crowds to the grounds. There was a massive number of carnival type rides, a huge variety of food outlets, some large beer halls and many smaller bar & food outlets. We caught the main parade of the festival with the costumes and wagons and floats saluting the history of the event.
Despite the crowds, food, beverages and seats in the shade were easy to come by and the food we had was excellent. Prices food and drinks were consistent with the rest of our stay in the area. The larger tents offered space for us without bookings, the entertainment was ongoing and the crowds seemed well behaved. The costume wearers certainly added to the spirit of the day & it was a great time.

















Before the crowds





Outside view of one of the bigger beer halls










This was loud!