Munich just before Oktoberfest
 

My wife and I will have a near 12 hour layover (9:55-21:55) in MUC on September 18th on the way to BKK. Can I assume that the permanent beer gardens (ie. Hoffbrauhaus) will still be open as usual? Other than crowds, is there any attractions I should expect will (or will not) be open due to Oktoberfest beginning later in the week?

-P

Yes, everything is open as usual. Actually I really like those places during Oktoberfest because there are without tourists ;)

Just don't go to Hofbräuhaus, if you want to go to a place in the city centre go to Augustiner near Stachus or if the sun is shining Hofbräukeller.

Everything will be as normal in Munich (and I doubt you'll be significantly inconvenienced by 'crowds' during the day in central Munich. Traffic to and from the airport is often an issue, but if you leave yourself one hour you are probably safe.

Yes, you can assume that.... (i`ve been there last year about the same time of year) There will be absolutely no problem to find a good (and nearby) place in Munich. Have fun :-)