travel plan for munich

Ultimate Munich Itinerary You Need From 1 to 7 Days

Looking for Munich Itinerary? Well, it can look easy to figure out, but it isn’t once you start getting into the details!

Because the capital of Bavaria is distinct in every sense and there are plenty of things to do and see in this gorgeous city.

Whether you want to spend 3 days in Munich or 5 days in Munich, I have you covered. 

You can refer to later sections in this Munich travel blog even if you spend less than 2 days or even one day in Munich.

Let me tell you some things first before moving to the Munich itinerary. Munich is probably one of the most underrated cities in the world.

Of course, beer lovers remember this city at the time of Oktoberfest but come on; the town deserves more!

Even in Germany, the capital Berlin hogs most of the limelight as the cool, suave, and bustling hipster city, which is true, but Munich is different.

Munich is where you can find how ancient Germany is, a world completely different from today.

Munich is one of the wealthiest cities in Germany and Europe. Of course, the rich historic past blends with the modern buildings and both exist harmoniously. 

But it is the history of the city that makes it unique and special. The old town of Munich has been the centre of world-changing movements from medieval to modern times.  

So grab a cuppa now, and start scrolling through to read the possible itineraries, whether you want to spend a day in Munich or a week in Munich!

SUGGESTED MUNICH ITINERARY

One day in munich, quick munich 1 day itinerary.

• Munich Old Town(Munich Residenz), Viktualienmarkt, English Garden, Hofbräuhaus

What to do in Munich in one day? Believe it or not, you will cover a lot of places to visit and things to do in Munich in one day.

Starting early, you can make the most of one day in Munich by centring first around the most popular attractions in and around the historic Old town or Altstadt, followed by a walking tour of the English garden with the Chinese Tower Beer Garden. 

You can join one of the free walking tours or self-guided tours. You can only join one of these historical guided tours too. 

Munich Old Town

The old town in Munich was the centre stage for many world-changing historical events, and all the sights will give you insights into these events.

It is one of the top things to do in Munich. The old town has lots of points of interest for travelers, especially those that enjoy history.

If you are wondering what to see in Munich in one day, follow this Munich one day itinerary step by step and be amazed at the number of sights you will explore in 1 day in Munich! 

Note: Plan in such a way as to be at Marienplatz at noon sharp(you will know why in a later section below)

Odeonsplatz

Begin the first day of your Munich itinerary at Odeonsplatz to the north of the old town, home to many medieval structures, one of the most notable ones being Theatine Church (Theatinerkirche). 

This bright yellow building stands out in the square, known for its beautiful interiors. It took 16 years to build this Church, which got completed in 1676.

✅I highly recommend this Munich: Old Town & Viktualienmarkt City Walk in German (4.8/5 1000+ reviews🤩), where you discover Munich’s inner city and its highlights. See the cathedral, the Frauenkirche and the famous Staatliches Hofbräuhaus (Royal Brewery). Finally, enjoy the special atmosphere at Viktualienmarkt.

Munich Residenz Palace

Walk further from Theatine to Munich Residenz Palace, built as a retreat for the Royal family of Wittelsbachs at the end of the 14th century to defend against the rebellion. 

Called also Neueste Castle, the Wittelsbachs eventually moved there in 1508 and were their administrative centre and royal residence for 400 years until 1918.

It is one of the most opulent palaces in the World. This colossal palace consists of interiors decorated with grand sculptures, murals and intricately painted ceilings. 

Don’t forget to stop at the most beautiful part and the popular Cuvilliés-Theater or  Residence Theatre , a stunning, grand royal theatre.

The  Treasury  consists of over 1200 works of art, including the symbol of the Bavarian Kings and the Queens, which gives a peek into the royal life of Bavarian kingdoms.

The other essential sections worth seeing in the Castle include the Residenz Museum, which consists of stone rooms, ornate rooms, gothic cellars, medieval fountains, Medusa and Shell, Gallery of old paintings.  

✅ I highly recommend this Munich Residenz Concert (4.6/5 200+ reviews 🤩 ) , where you can enjoy a classical concert in the Hofkapelle, where Mozart himself used to play, then enjoy a dinner or beer and wine tasting.

Munich Residenz entry hours: Museum – 9€, Treasury – 9€, Theatre – 5€

Opening hours – 9 AM to 5 PM. Check admission regulations & other details on their website  here .

Marienplatz

Next, it is time to head to the most famous spot in Munich, Marienplatz or Market Square. Also called Schrannenplatz, the square is the oldest part of the city, dating back to the 700s. 

The medieval market was the trade centre of everything from salt to meat to household appliances. It was and is the centre of the Christmas Market.

The most iconic landmark in Marienplatz is the elegant New Town Hall in the backdrop with the Virgin Mary Column in the front, because of which the square is called Mary’s Square. 

The Mary column was built in the 1340s. Mary was recognized as the new patron and protector of the city averting Swedish invasion, curing Bubonic Plague and other calamities daunting Munich. 

This sacred column is still the dominant figure in the town, whose medieval-style architecture is evident in the column consisting of four statutes and the intricate top portion.

✅ Join this 2.5 hours Munich City: Marienplatz and English Garden Walking Tour (5/5 1000+ reviews 🤩 ) , to siscover the cosmopolitan and charming city of Munich on this walking tour of its historic heart, and take a break in its beautiful English Garden.

New Town Hall ( Neues Rathaus)

The New Town Hall is one of the most photographed landmarks of Munich. The beautiful monument is the heart of Munich.

It has been the backdrop for many revolutionary times in Europe’s history, including being the venue for Nazi assemblies during the pre-WII times.

Constructed in 1867(took 40 years), this magnificent Gothic-style structure consists of over 400 rooms and more than six courtyards.

Its beauty is augmented by the 280-foot-tall central clock tower topped by a Child Monk statue, the Munich symbol.  

The jewel of this tower is the dominating  Glockenspiel,  the manually operated medieval clock with over 40 bells, which has figures 28 feet high! It is one of the most stunning medieval pieces of art. 

Every day, these figures re-enact numerous events in Munich’s history for about 15 minutes that occur twice a day at 11 AM and Noon and at 5 PM during the Summer.

The best way to get the most of your time is to take this guided tour of Munich New Town Hall, Munich: Guided Tour of New Town Hall

St.Peter’s Church (Alter Peterskirche )

Now it’s time to see the panoramic bird views of Munich.   Walk opposite the New Town Hall, and on the left ahead, you will find St. Peter’s Church, which is older than the city of Munich itself.

The Church was built by a group of Benedictine monks, or Mönch, in the 700s. They later founded the town München in the 1100s ,  which means the settlement of monks.

The original wooden Church got burnt many times, and the present was built in the 13th century, parts of which survived WWII bombings.

The gothic architecture is evident within the lovely ceiling decorated with paintings. There are over a hundred relics, including bones and skulls.

This is the best spot for travellers visiting Munich to witness the 360-degree stunning views of the old town and the modern Munich encircling it. But to be rewarded with these views, you must climb the 300+   Alter Peter tower.

✅Join this Munich: Old Town Highlights Private Walking Tour , lasting between 2 to 6 hours where you visit the top attractions in Munich’s Old Town on a private guided tour. Explore Marienplatz, Asamkirche, Frauenkirche, Theatine Church, the Residenz, and many more historic landmarks.

Opening hours – 9 AM to 6 PM; Free entry to the Church; Tower top – 3€

Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus)

The Old Town Hall is your next stop in your walking tour around the old town of Munich. The old town hall, constructed in 1175, had watchtowers and entrance gates.

It now consists of a Dance house, a Toy Museum, medieval statues and a Watch Tower Valley Fort, among other things.

It will take 5 to 6 hours on average to cover these highlights in the old town, which may increase or decrease depending on your preferences.

There are also many stops on the street leading to Karlsplatz, but I wouldn’t recommend them if you visit Munich in a day.

Lunch at Victuals Market  ( Viktualienmarkt)

All the walking would probably famish you, so it’s time to rest your legs and fill your belly. Head next to Victuals Market, which is close to Marienplatz.

Viktualienmarkt is Munich’s outdoor food market and is one of the best places in the city to try Bavarian cuisines, with over 100 stalls and lovely outdoor seating.

You have plenty of options to choose from: salads, fruits, and many pretzels. Some must-try items apart from sausages and pretzels are goulash soup and sauerkraut.

Enjoy your Bavarian stein or beer and lunch in one of the many Biergartens with outdoor seating options. There are many cafes too.

You can even book a food tour of the market if you want to dive deep with a local expert.

If you are traveling in Munich in winter, head to Ratskeller below the Old Town Hall, as many of the Biergartens remain closed now.

✅ Join this Mystic Munich: Legends of the Old Town , where you will walk through the old town of Munich, mystical creatures, hidden traces, and spectacular places. Hear about amazing legends, see mysterious places and experience the town’s history from a completely new perspective.

English Garden ( Englischer Garten)

After lunch, it is time for more beer(I am not kidding!) Okay, you can skip the beer for now if you had one too many, but next, head to the sprawling English Garden, which is one of the best places to visit in Munich. 

It is not just a garden but one of the World’s largest urban public parks. It gets the name due to the informal style of the park, which is common in England.

It is the city’s first and oldest public park and one of the most popular places for locals in Munich who spend their summers picnicking.

If you visit Munich in the Summer or during the fall, you will fall in love with the colours of flowers and foliage at both times. 

✅ Discover the cosmopolitan and charming city of Munich on this walking tour of its historic heart, and take a break in its beautiful English Garden. Check out more here – Munich City: Marienplatz and English Garden Walking Tour (5/5 1000+ reviews 🤩 )

To check out a few attractions, visit the Japanese teahouse, Stone bench (Steinerne Bank) and the Monopteros temple. In the Schönfeldwiese area, you can do nude sunbathing.

The pristine Kleinhesseloher Lake and the wooden pagoda – Chinese Tower are other stops worth checking.

If you want to surf, head to Eisbach River, which is not a river but an artificial stream famous for surfing in the Summer.

You can simply walk amidst the greenery and soak in the fresh breeze. You can also relax and people-watch if you don’t wish to do these.

Coming to more beer, I was talking about, close to the Chinese tower is the lovely Chinese Tower Biergarten, an excellent place to spend the evening trying some brew.

You will notice how it is crowded, which is the case almost constantly, especially in Summer and spring. Note that this garden is closed during the winter months.

Drinks & Dinner at Hofbräuhaus (Royal Beer Hall)

After a long, fulfilling day in Munich, stop at the Royal Beer Hall, more popularly known as Hofbräuhaus in the old town.

This 3-storey beer hall is the most famous Biergarten in Munich, and everything about it – decor, beer, food, music and the crowd- represents the city’s character.

This Biergarten has been around since medieval times, since 1607, to be precise. It is not yet another Biergarten; it is THE Biergarten! It can occupy up to 3500 people. 

You can take a table in the open garden, at the Grand Hall on the first, the most vibrant ground floor – And yes, it is full of tourists, but that’s what makes it unique, of course, apart from 1-litre Beer glasses, excellent food, ancient music and the medieval atmosphere.  

If you are in large groups, it is best to make a reservation. Otherwise, walk-in is okay. If you are a solo traveler like me, don’t be afraid to go alone.

You can share a table with people and make friends(Yes, that’s what I did).

Recommended: Munich: Hofbräuhaus Tour

And it’s a wrap if you have one day in Munich. But believe me, this is an excellent Munich itinerary to do in a day – to get to know the city and relax.

If you are tempted to spend more days in Munich(Yay!), or you already have many days to afford to explore the city, keep scrolling, it gets better and better!

2 DAYS IN MUNICH ITINERARY

Munich in 2 days in a glance.

• Day 1 – Munich Old Town, Munich Residenz, English Garden, Hofbräuhaus 
• Day 2 – Third Reich Tour, Nymphenburg Palace, Viktualienmarkt, Olympiapark, Augustiner Beer Garden

If you have 2 days in Munich, you will have a chance to pick a few attractions and play around.

One of the options in Munich 2 day itinerary is to go ahead with the above itinerary on your first day and top it up the next day with a day trip, preferably to Neuschwanstein Castle . 

✅ If you are looking for a comfortable day trip with a local expert, this is a very popular tour that you should check(4.8/5 6000+ reviews🤩). Discover the splendid castles of Ludwig II, King of Bavaria. Visit fairytale Neuschwanstein, intimate Linderhof and scenic Hohenschwangau, before traveling through the little town of Oberammergau.

For other suggested itineraries for Munich, you can choose below, which will give you many options.

But, I’d recommend you to keep your two days in Munich restricted to explore the city itself, as there are a lot of amazing things to do and see. 

DAY 1 in Munich: Munich Old Town, Munich Residenz, English Garden, Hofbräuhaus 

Make the most of your first day of two days in Munich by starting the day early. Begin exploring the attractions in the old town, covering Munich Residenz and arrive at New Town Hall at noon to witness the performance. 

Grab a bite at one of the many outlets in the old town and spend the afternoon in English garden surfing, walking, chilling and having a beer at Chinese tower Biergarten. 

Wrap up the first day at Hofbräuhaus amidst music, beer, food and making new friends.

DAY 2:   Third Reich Tour, Nymphenburg Palace, Viktualienmarkt, Olympiapark, Augustiner Keller Beer Garden

Third Reich Tour

Start your day early, and get ready to know about the events that shaped the modern history of Munich after you get a snapshot of medieval history on day 1.

Adolf Hitler was 23 years old when he came to Munich after he attempted to become an artist in his hometown Vienna failed.

It is the city where got posted as a soldier in WWI. Munich is where he rose to the ranks to become the Chancellor of Germany over a decade later after leading revolts to catapult the government. 

Many know the importance of the capital Berlin and its influence on the city, but Munich is where Hitler, the leader, his SS officers, and the infamous Nazi regime were born. All the atrocities of WWII were first planned here.

Third Reich Tour will unveil these dark pasts of the city, and gory scars of WWII. It is best to join one of the guided walking tours where very knowledgeable local guides will take you back in time. The tour will last about 2 to 3 hours.

Recommended: Berlin: A Third Reich Walking Tour

Nymphenburg Palace

Nymphenburg Palace  is one of the best places to visit in Munich to learn the history and life of Bavarian royalty.

It was the royal residence of Bavarian rulers of the Wittelsbachs family, whose successive kings expanded the palatial buildings to suit their preferences in their stay of 400+ years. 

Nymphenburg Palace represents baroque-style architecture with hundreds of rooms and sprawling gardens, making it worth a visit. 

Explore the grandeur of the Stone Hall (Steinerner Saal) and scores of royal Pavillion Halls, notably the beautiful Hall of Mirrors, and other rooms depicting royal life, including where King Ludwig was born. The Carriage Museum is excellent, especially if visiting with kids. 

The garden is one of the most beautiful attractions of visiting Nymphenburg Palace. It is a HUGE garden with many artificial lakes, an incredible botanical garden, ponds and Amalienburg, Brandenburg, Pagodenburg, and Magdalenenklause – four palaces too! 

Recommended: Munich: Mystical Nymphenburg Palace

Opening hours: 9 AM to 6 PM; Entry fees: Full ticket(all places) 15€; Palace – 8€, Museum – 6€ 

How to get there – From the city centre or the old town, you can take Bus 180, which stops 500 metres close to Nymphenburg. 

Next, head to  Viktualienmarkt   for lunch in the outdoor Biergarten.

Olympiapark

The Olympiapark, or the Olympic Park, was constructed in 1972 when Munich hosted the Olympics. It is a large park with many attractions to keep you occupied for a few hours. Visit Bird’s Nest Soccer Stadium, which has stunning architecture. 

Take a walk in the Olympiazentrum tower and reach the Olympic tower top. The views of the skyline of Munich, the stadium and the park from the top are fantastic.

How to get there: The Olympiapark is located in Oberwiesenfeld, and the best way to reach it is to take the subway U-Bahn line 3, which has a direct stop at the park.

Where to head for dinner

Next, head to one of the best Beirgartens in Munich,  Augustiner Keller Beer Garden,  for drinks and dinner. It is one of the renowned Biergartens known for its large hall, beer and delicious Bavarian cuisines. You can also try others from their international menu, which is very good.

That’s 2 days Munich itinerary for you! If you don’t want to explore the city any further, alternatively, you can also take a day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle. See the details below.

Recommended: Munich: 4 Hour City Sightseeing Guided E-Bike Tour

3 DAYS IN MUNICH ITINERARY 

A glance at munich itinerary 3 days :.

• Day 1 – Munich Old Town,  Munich Residenz, Viktualienmarkt, English Garden, Hofbräuhaus
• Day 2 –   Nymphenburg Palace, Bavarian National Museum, Olympiapark, Augustiner-Keller Beer Garden
• Day 3 –  Day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle

If you choose to spend 3 days in Munich, it is a fabulous choice as you will get to see the city a bit leisurely. You can cover plenty of places to visit in Munich in 3 days. The best thing about a 3-day itinerary for Munich is that you can spread your old town sights and also spend a little more time in the museums.

DAY 1: Munich Old Town, Munich Residenz, Viktualienmarkt, English Garden, Hofbräuhaus

Start your Munich in 3 days itinerary spending your first day in the old town, which is the best place to begin to know about the city. Soak in the tales of the Medieval past as you pass through historical monuments, get a peek int Bavaria’s Royal life and watch the iconic clock sing for you at New town hall.

Grab a fulfilling lunch at Victual Market, stroll in the English Garden and sign off by spending a fabulous evening of beer and Bavarian food at Hofbräuhaus.

DAY 2: Nymphenburg Palace, Bavarian National Museum, Olympiapark, Augustiner-Keller Beer Garden

Start your day early and explore Nymphenburg Palace(Bus 180), the summer residence of Bavarian kings and queens.

Bavarian National Museum (Bayerische Nationalmuseum)

Get back to Munich city centre and head to Bavarian National Museum, home to extensive collections of Bavarian art, precious jewels, murals and royal possessions from 13th to 19th centuries.

Opening hours: 9 AM to 5 PM; Entry fees : 12€

How to get there: It is at a walking distance from Marienplatz.

After this Museum, grab lunch at Chinese tower Beer Garden or any quick bites at one of the local eateries.

Next, take the U-Bahn 3 and head to Olympia Park to relax, take a walk, and watch the splendid sunset views from the Olympia Tower.

Head to Augustiner-Keller Beer Garden for beer, music, food and fun!

DAY 3: Day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle

One of the best things about Munich itinerary 3 days would be a day trip to Neuschwanstein, which will undoubtedly be a fantastic experience!

Neuschwanstein Castle is one of the most beautiful fairytale castles in the World. Surrounded by immense natural beauty comprising of lakes, forests and waterfalls, it is one of the must-visit attractions if you are visiting Munich. 

The Mad King Ludwig built it, and he spent most of his years alone here. A UNESCO heritage site, Neuschwanstein Castle inspired Walt Disney to make this their snow castle and is also called Disney Castle. 

It takes 2 hours from Munich to Neuschwanstein by train. It is one of the most beautiful train journies where you will witness the beautiful Bavarian countryside, with glimpses of snow-capped Alps, rolling green hills, meadows and lakes. 

You need a whole day to visit this Castle. Close to it is Hohenschwangau Castle, which can be combined. The best way to make this day trip to Neuschwanstein and around is to take a guided tour of Neuschwanstein Castle. 

The benefits are you will save the hassle of switching between public transport, and you will get skip-the-line tickets to the interiors of the castles, which is hard to obtain otherwise given the immense popularity. Also, some tours cover another lovely fairytale castle Schloss Linderhof.

You can take private or group tours, and there are other combos and variations to these tours that you can pick based on your preferences. 

Here are some of the recommended tours with excellent reviews.

• Bus tour to Neuschwanstein castle
• Private group tour
• UNESCO World Heritage site Church of the Wies + Neuschwanstein castle combination tour
• Recommended: From Munich: Neuschwanstein & Linderhof Castle Full-Day Trip

Dinner at Taxisgarten

After returning to Munich, wrap your fabulous day by having dinner and drinks at Taxisgarten, a beautiful Biergarten known for canteen-style Bavarian dining.

Alternative Munich Itinerary for 3 days – There are many things to see in Munich itself if you want to skip the day trip to Neuschwanstein.  

You can visit the Third Reich Tour and Deutsche Museum, BMW world, BMW Museum, and Augustiner Schützengarten. See below for more details on these attractions and other options.

MUNICH ITINERARY FOR 4 DAYS

A quick look at munich 4 day itinerary.

• Day 1 – Munich Old Town, Munich Residenz, English Garden, Hofbräuhaus 
• Day 2 – Nymphenburg Palace, Bavarian National Museum, Olympiapark, Augustiner Beer Garden
• Day 3 – Day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle, Taxis Garten
• Day 4 – Day trip to Dachau Concentration Camp, Viktualienmarkt

4 days in Munich is the perfect time to spend in the city. If you are wondering what to do in Munich for that long, well, it is not a lot of time. The pros of spending four days in Munich are that you can see Munich’s Old Town and the many attractions leisurely, without getting burnt out. 

You can even afford to start a day late or choose between the plenty of day trip options in this region. Instead of two day trips on day 3 and day 4, you can spend one of these days in Munich itself (check below for options)

DAY 1: Munich Old Town, Munich Residenz, English Garden, Hofbräuhaus 

Keep your first day in Munich to get used to the city, by checking out its most visited attractions, aka the Old town and around. 

The second half of your first day is less taxing and more relaxing as you stroll in the garden and taste different brews in lovely Beirgartens.

Your first half of the second day in Munich itinerary will cover everything about the Bavarian empire. It gets more comfortable and relaxing post-lunch as you take the fresh breeze and beautiful views at Olypmiapark and wrap up at Augustiner-Keller Biergarten for dinner.

DAY 3 :  Day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle, Taxis Garten

On your third day in Munich, plan a day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle, and spend the evening relaxing at one of the Biergartens, Taxis Garten.

DAY 4: Day trip to Dachau, Viktualienmarkt

Today, plan a day trip to Dachau.   Dachau is a pretty village in the suburbs of Munich, known as the Dachau Concentration camp. It was the oldest concentration camp built under Hitler’s Nazi regime, and it is one of the saddest places that uncover the darkest sides of the Third Reich. 

Initially, plenty of officers and officials strong enough to resist the party’s atrocities were imprisoned here before torturing them to death. 

In the years leading to World War II, Dachau got expanded to turn into a full-fledged concentration camp, where thousands of people, mostly Jews, political prisoners, and revolts were brought to be put to suffering and eventually killed in masses in Gas chambers.

You can take a train from Munich Central Station to Dachau, which takes about 25 minutes. From there, buses are available, which stop in front of the Dachau concentration memorial site. The entrance is free, and for a minimum cost, you can get the audio guide to explore the sections on the site.

I’d recommend you take the guided tour here to understand the past and the site better. The place is huge, and you will need 5 to 6 hours to walk through the sections. There is plenty of documentation where inmates describe the routine, horrors, and processes followed in the camp. You can find the walls and rooms with imprints and scribbles of the inmates sharing their thoughts.

A lot of photographs showcase the horrendous plight of the inmates, including the cramped cells, death chambers, and crematoriums. It is one of the saddest places to be, and maybe not recommended if you have very young kids. But it is one of the places that travelers should visit to get glimpses of the horrors of wars on the lives of people.

For a convenient trip, book a guided day trip tour to Dachau from Munich, which will include transport and pick up. 

After returning to Munich, shop in the streets close to Marienplatz if you have energy left. And then head to Viktualienmarkt or Victual Market for drinks and dinner.

Alternative Day 3/4  – If you want to make only one of these day trips or want more options in exploring around the city, then follow this – Start with the Third Reich Tour, then visit Deutsche Museum, lunch, BMW world, and BMW Museum.

5 – 6 DAYS IN MUNICH ITINERARY

A glance of munich itinerary 5 days/6 days.

• Day 1 – Munich Old Town, Munich Residenz, Hofbräuhaus 
• Day 2 – Nymphenburg Palace, Viktualienmarkt, Olympiapark, Augustiner-Keller Beer Garden
• Day 3 – Day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle, Taxisgarten
• Day 4 –  Day trip to Dachau, English Garden
• Day 5 –  Day trip to Salzburg, Haxnbauer
• Day 6 –  Third Reich Tour, Museum Quarter, BMW world, BMW Museum

If you have 5 days in Munich or 6 days in Munich, you will get plenty of time to cover all things to do leisurely, along with possibility of making multiple day trips or going more in-depth, away from the touristy attractions in the city,

Also, many people plan 5 to 7 days in Bavaria, and in that case, it is an excellent idea to base yourself in Munich and go on day trips around. If you opt for day trips, you can add a third one too and even stay overnight in Salzburg or Nuremberg, come back and continue your Munich vacation.

DAY 1: Munich Old Town, Munich Residenz, Hofbräuhaus  

Walk around in the old town of Munich, covering the city’s top attractions. You will get an entire day to leisurely explore the old part of Munich. 

Visit Munich Residenz, New and Old Town Halls, witness the bird’s view of the town from Alte Peter, and wrap up the day at Hofbräuhaus with beer and Bavarian dinner.

DAY 2: Nymphenburg Palace, Viktualienmarkt, Olympiapark, Augustiner-Keller Beer Garden

Visit Nymphenburg Palace in the morning and then head to Viktualienmarkt for lunch. Explore Olympiapark, enjoy the bird views from the Olympic Tower in the evening, and end the day by a slow dinner along with beer at Augustiner-Keller Biergarten.

DAY 3: Day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle, Taxisgarten

On your fourth day in Munich, plan a day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle, and spend the evening relaxing at one of the Biergartens, Taxisgarten. They specialize in canteen-style Bavarian dining, along with tasty beer.

DAY 4:   Day trip to Dachau, English Garden

Visit the district of Dachau and check out the Dachau Concentration Camp in the first half of the day. Return to the city centre and spend the second half of the day relaxing in the English garden(You can go surfing, walk in the park or have beer and food at Chinese Tower Beer Garden).

DAY 5:    Day trip to Salzburg, Haxnbauer Biergarten

Keep this day of Munich itinerary to hop to neighbouring Austria, to the lovely town of  Salzburg .

Salzburg, the pretty town in neighbouring Austria, is just 2 hours away from Munich and is one of the day trips that you can plan. Salzburg needs at least 2 days or more, but you can still squeeze in the highlights of this beautiful town within a day, especially if you join one of the guided tours.

Again I’d favour guided tours over independent travel if you plan a day trip to Salzburg from Munich. One of the significant benefits is sorting transportation, lunch and skip-the-line tickets to attractions, which will save the hassle.

Recommended: From Munich: Salzburg Day Trip by Train

Dinner at Haxnbauer –  If you are back early in Munich from Salzburg, you can dine at Haxnbauer Biergarten, a part of the historical building of the Scholastikahaus. This 14th-century Bee hall is one of Munich’s well-preserved ancient Beer gardens worth checking out.

DAY 6: Third Reich Tour, Museum Quarter, BMW world, BMW Museum

Start the day with the walking tour, the  Third Reich tour , which will unveil the city’s dark past. 

Museum Quarter

Then head to Museum Quarter in the Kunstareal district, home to over 18 Museums and 4 universities. You can’t visit all of them in less than a day, of course, but check out these two most famous museums visited by travelers. Since you have 5 to 6 days, you can add a few more to your Munich Itinerary if you love Museums.

The Alte Pinakothek  – Home to hundreds of artworks of Classic artists from the medieval period(13th to 17th), Alte Pinakothek is worth visiting if you like classic art and paintings of the Renaissance times.

Opening hours:  10 AM to 6 PM; Entry fees – 7 Euro

The Neue Pinakothek  – If you are a modern art lover, you will enjoy the Neue Pinakothek, which has hundreds of works by contemporary artists worldwide. Note that it has been currently closed for renovation(until the end of 2020)

How to get to Museum Quarter: You have many public transport options to reach these museums. Take Tram No 27 to Pinakotheken, or U-Bahn U2, U3 and U4. Bus no 100 museum line also stops at Pinakotheken.

BMW World & BMW Museum

Next, after the Museum Quarter, get back to the city and grab a quick lunch near the old town.

Head next to BMW World and Museum. If you are a car lover, this will be one of the best places to visit in Munich. The Carmaker company BWM has its headquarters here in Munich, which is as swankier as the cars they produce! You can even spend a day here learning everything about making a car.

Be awed by the latest beasts on the market, which are on display. Some are brand-new(and you will see them before they are on the road). The museum has artefacts, photographs and various other documentation from the birth of these cars to the latest technology, which is very interesting.

How to get there: You can take the same route you made for Olypmiapark. It is better to combine both of these as they are close to each other.

Dinner at Löwenbräukeller Das Original  – Your Munich sightseeing is not complete until you visit at least one Biergarten per day! Today, check out Löwenbräukeller, another early 19th-century, Bavarian-style garden.

You can make variations in this 6-day Munich itinerary depending on your preferences.

ONE WEEK IN MUNICH ITINERARY

Munich 7-day itinerary at a glance.

• Day 1 – Munich Old Town, Munich Residenz, Third Reich Tour, Hofbräuhaus 
• Day 2 – Nymphenburg Palace, Viktualienmarkt, Museum Quarter, Augustiner-Keller Beer Garden
• Day 3 – Day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle, Taxisgarten 
• Day 4 –  BMW world, BMW Museum, Olympiapark, Bavarian State Opera, Augustiner Schützengarten 
• Day 5 –  Day trip to Salzburg
• Day 6 –  Day trip to Dachau, English Garden 
• Day 7 – Deutsche Museum, Bavarian National Museum, Allianz Arena, Shopping, Hirschau Biergarten

Got a week in Munich? You are awesome. You can spend 7 days in Munich city if you wish as there are so many things to do there. Of course, covering a few day trips makes sense because there are at least over twenty-day trips from Munich.

So the idea is to balance out both if you have a week. I once spent around 9.5 days in Munich, made two-day trips and spent the rest checking out attractions – There are so many museums(60+) ranging from arts to automobiles, all equally appealing. 

You can spend overnight in Salzburg as the distance from Munich to Salzburg can be done under 2 hours, or if you pick Nuremberg or other cities too, you can extend the day trip by spending the night there and making your way back to continue Munich vacation.

Plus, you have so many splendid beer gardens in Munich that you can keep trying them! 

The below itinerary has three day trips and around four days to explore the city, which balances both. And of course, I have added one Biergarten at night for you, wherever possible.

DAY 1: Munich Old Town, Munich Residenz, Third Reich Tour, Hofbräuhaus  

Walk around in the old town of Munich, covering the top attractions of the city. You will get an entire day to explore the ancient and modern history of Munich.

Let’s talk about the old history of Munich first. Visit Munich Residenz, New and Old Town Halls, witness the bird view of the town from Alte Peter .

Grab a quick lunch next and start the Third Reich Tour, which you can do by yourself or best with a guided tour. You will get to know the dark history of the city on this tour.

Dinner at Hofbräuhaus  – Wrap up the day at the beautiful Hofbräuhaus with beer and Bavarian dinner.

DAY 2: Nymphenburg Palace, Viktualienmarkt, Museum Quarter, Augustiner-Keller Beer Garden

Starting your day early today will give you more time today for the museums to explore later. Visit  Nymphenburg Palace  in the morning, and then head to  Viktualienmarkt  for lunch. 

You might want to finish your lunch quickly as you have museums to explore at the  Museum Quarter  next. You can plan your time depending on how many of them you intend to visit. I’d recommend the  Alte Pinakothek  for the classical art enthusiasts.

Dinner at Augustiner –  End another fabulous day in Munich with a slow dinner plus beer at Augustiner-Keller Biergarten.

DAY 3: Day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle, Taxisgartern

It’s time to plan one of your days with one of Munich day trips today. Start with the best one by making a day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle, and spend the evening relaxing at one of the Biergartens, Taxisgarten. They specialize in canteen-style Bavarian dining, along with tasty beer.

DAY 4: Day trip to Nuremberg, Augustiner Schützengarten 

You can plan another day trip to neighbouring Nuremberg, which can be reached from Munich under 2 hours by train, and end the day at Augustiner Schützengarten Biergarten.

BMW world, BMW Museum, Olympiapark, Bavarian State Opera, Augustiner Schützengarten

If you want to continue checking out Munich points of interest, there are a handful of them that you can plan today.

Start with BMW World by taking the subway, and spend time getting to know about the famous cars, their origin and other incredible things at the BMW Museum.

Next, move further to explore Olympiapark, enjoy the bird views from the Olympic Tower in the evening.

Bavarian State Opera (Bayerische Staatsoper)

Arrive at the state opera after Olympiapark. It is best if you book tickets ahead of time as it gets filled soon. Not many know, but Munich is home to one of the best Opera houses in the world. There are amazing performances(related to Bavarian culture) at night at Bavarian State Opera located in Old Munich. 

You can also choose from one of the guided tours to the Opera House.

Dinner at Augustiner Schützengarten –  Wrap your day with dinner and beer at Augustiner Schützengarten after a lovely Opera evening.

DAY 5: Day trip to Salzburg, Haxnbauer Biergarten

Plan a day trip to Salzburg today, enjoy the beautiful town, and if you are back early in Munich the same evening, check out Haxnbauer beer garden.

If you want to stay overnight, you can do so, because Day 6 has only two stops so you can arrive early next day and continue another day trip to Dachau.

DAY 6: Day trip to Dachau Camp, English Garden

Visit the district of Dachau and check the Dachau Concentration Camp in the first half of the day. Return to the city centre and spend the second half of the day relaxing at the English garden(You can go surfing, walk in the park or have beer and food at Chinese Tower Beer Garden).

DAY 7: Deutsche Museum, Bavarian National Museum, Allianz Arena, Hirschau Biergarten

Your last day in Munich can be planned depending on the time you have.  

If you have less than one full day(if you are flying out or reaching another city the same day), then I’d recommend you visit one among Allianz arena, Deutsche Museum, or Bavarian National Museum. Keep the remaining hours for shopping or visiting one last beer garden in the city(Haxnbauer or Hirschau).

If you have a full day though, start early and check out the two famous museums in the city first.

Deutsche Museum –  Deutsche Museum is the largest technological Museum in the world. If science and technology fascinate you, you will be mind-blown by the exhausting collections, artefacts and displays. You can easily spend a day here if you have time or prefer.

Opening hours: 9 AM to 5 PM

Entry fees : 14€   Musuem only.   Combined ticket   21 € (Deutsches Museum + Verkehrszentrum + Flugwerft Schleissheim – no time limit)

How to get there: You can reach by tram lines 16, 17, 18 or all on Isartor S-Bahn train line stop at the Museum.

Next, check out Bavarian National Museum, to know about the rich history of the Bavarian kingdom and the lives of the queens and kings. 

If you have time, check out Allianz Arena or end your day at either Haxnbauer or Hirschau Biergartens.

Recommended: Munich: City Tour & FC Bayern Munich Soccer Arena Tour

OTHER THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT VISITING MUNICH

HOW MANY DAYS TO SPEND IN MUNICH?

Now that you have got complete details on Munich itineraries, you might be wondering how many days in Munich? The answer depends on your time and budget, but ideally, I’d suggest you spend at least 4 days in Munich. It will give you time to cover the highlights of the city in three days, allowing you to take up one of the day trips from Munich on the fourth day. 

If you want to skip Munich day trips, it is still recommended to spend 3 days in Munich minimum. I spent ten days in Munich and always felt that I had more time as I thought that there was so much to see yet!

BEST TIME TO VISIT MUNICH

Summer months are the most popular times to visit Munich. While the upside is the pleasant weather, the downsides of visiting during summer are expensive rates of hotels, restaurants and flights, along with a lot of tourists everywhere. 

The fall months are when the chilly weather sets in, and the nights get colder. It rains frequently, and I wouldn’t recommend fall if you don’t like the gloomy ambience. If you can manage the drizzles and the chill weather, you can enjoy the lovely foliage of autumn with fewer tourists and lower prices.

Winter months receive few tourists, thanks to the mind-numbing sub-zero temperatures, and occasional rains and damp weather. However, visiting Munich in winter has plenty of other advantages, one of them being the vibrant Christmas markets.

So ideally, the best time to visit Munich is during the spring or early autumn when tourists are fewer, the weather would be beginning to soften, and the prices are relatively lower. 

WHERE TO STAY?

Munich is huge(It is the second-largest city in Germany), so you will have plenty of places to choose if you are wondering where to stay in Munich. The hotels in Munich are spread throughout the city. As a rule of thumb, one of the best areas would be close to the city centre, but note that the prices can be slightly high. 

In general, the more the accommodation is in the centre, the higher is the price. So it depends on your budget and your convenience. If you prefer quieter places to stay and don’t mind spending on trams and subway to get around the city, then pick a place far away from the city centre.

If you want to save a few bucks on transportation or prefer staying closer to some attractions, pick downtown Munich or somewhere close to the old town.

Here are some excellent hostels in Munich that I would recommend:

Some excellent mid-range hotels and apartments in the city are:

If you don’t mind spending on accommodation, here are some special stays in Munich

GETTING TO MUNICH

Munich is connected excellently to almost all cities in Europe and major cities around the world. Munich International Airport connects major cities of Europe and other destinations outside and is one of the busiest airports in the world.

Getting From Munich Airport to city centre or vice versa:

From Munich airport, you should take either the S-1 or the S-8 Bahn to reach the city centre or Hauptbahnhof (Munich Central Station). One way ticket costs about 13.00 €. You can also take the Lufthansa Bus from Airport to Munich central station, which costs 10.50€.

If you are travelling from other cities in Germany, you can book the Deutsche Bahn, which offers great deals if you book early. If you have the Euro rail pass, you can get discounted prices. 

You can arrive in Munich from the cities of neighbouring countries by train too.

Bus is the cheapest way to get to Munich by road if you are traveling from other cities. Flixbus offers very low prices to buses across Germany.

Recommended: Munich: Airport Transfer by Bus

GETTING AROUND MUNICH

You can explore a part of the city on foot, especially around Marienplatz. Otherwise, the city has an excellent public transport system. You can rely on subways, trams and buses to get around Munich. 

Munich transport passes

There are plenty of types of passes available to get around Munich without burying deep in your pockets. All of them include unlimited transport within the city of Munich(called the zone M). There are additional zones 1 to 6 beyond Zone M, which connects the city to other districts around. Munich airport is in Zone 5.

München Card  – The München Card is an economical option for your Munich sightseeing. It provides a day ticket for public transport within the selected area of the MVV network. Additionally, you also get discounts of up to 70% at numerous sights, attractions, tours, shopping and gastronomy partners.

You can either buy Zone M(urban area of Munich and some municipalities outside of Munich) or Zone M – 6. 1 Day price of these starts at 11.90 € and 17.90 € respectively.

Single Day and Group Day tickets allow unlimited travel on S-Bahn lines, U-Bahn lines, Bus and Tram within the city in 24 hours. The price within Zone M is 7,80 €, and an additional 7,80 € if you want to include further zones.

Recommended: Munich: Private Airport Transfer to or from the City Center

Airport City Day Ticket

The Airport-City-Day-Ticket is a day ticket which includes the journey to/from the airport and the city area of Munich (validity zone M – 5). The Airport-City-Day-Ticket is available as a single ticket or as a group ticket for up to 5 people. A single ticket costs 13.00 €.

Munich City Tour Card – Transport + attractions

The CityTourCard includes a day ticket for use on public transport in the MVV network within the selected area of validity, as well as discounts for more than 80 tourist attractions in Munich and the surrounding area.

The CityTourCard is available as a Single or Group Ticket for a group of up to 5 adults, whereby any two children between 6 and 14 years of age count as one adult.

You can either buy Zone M(urban area of Munich and some municipalities outside of Munich) or Zone M – 6. 1 Day price of these starts at 13.90 € and 23.50 € respectively.

No matter what your pass type is, remember to get the ticket validated before you board the train on the platform. Your ticket is invalid if you don’t do this, and will be fined!

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The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Munich Itinerary

Last Updated on October 9, 2023

by Hope Brotherton

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Planning a trip to Germany’s third-largest city and want to plan out the perfect 2 to 3 days in Munich itinerary?

Bavaria’s capital is synonymous with the world-famous Oktoberfest. Every year for three weeks, the city is packed with locals (and tourists) wearing lederhosen and dirndls. The hordes flock to beer halls where they drink a mass of beer and dive into a pretzel.

While making a beeline for a beer is a must in Munich, be sure to go beyond the Bavarian stereotypes. Munich is home to opulent baroque churches, clusters of art galleries and museums as well as palaces a plenty. If you want to experience more of what Bavaria has to offer, read on for how to best plan your time in this amazing city!

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Munich?

In my opinion, every German city (whether you’re visiting Hamburg, Berlin or Munich ) is completely unique and steeped in its own history. To this end, Munich is no different and this means you’ll want to explore every nook and cranny. Thankfully, Munich is a relatively compact city with great transport links. 

So if you only have a long weekend, you’ll be able to explore the city’s main sites at a relaxing pace. 2 days in Munich will give you time to explore the city’s must-see attractions, while 3 days will allow you to squeeze in a day trip from Munich.

If you have more time, an extra day or two will give you an opportunity to go walking in the Bavarian Alps, explore more fairytale palaces, or pay your respects at one of the nearby concentration camps.

In general, however, you can tick off the best things to do in Munich in just 2 days in the city. But it’s never a bad idea to spend more time in this city!

Getting To & Around Munich

The easiest way for international travellers to arrive in Munich is via the Munich airport, which sits around 33km north of the city. If you have landed at the airport, the best way to arrive to the city is by using the city’s S-Bahn network. These trains run every 10 minutes with a journey time of 40 minutes.

If you’re arriving from elsewhere in Europe, a train may be an easier option. As well as being well-connected to the rest of Germany to cities like Frankfurt and Hamburg , the Bavarian capital and Munich Central Station has accessible transport links to other European cities, including Salzburg , Vienna , Budapest , Zurich and Ljubljana . You can check schedules here.

Once you’ve arrived in Munich, the best way to navigate the city is with a public transport pass. Munich has both a U-Bahn and an S-Bahn as well as an extensive tram and bus network.

If you’re going with another person, there is a group ticket that can be affordable and includes travel for up to five people. If you’re short on time, these transport tickets will give you the means to hop on and off all forms of public transport and save time walking from one attraction to another.

You can also get unlimited access to public transport by purchasing a Munich City Pass to help you get around Munich. This will also grant you entry into a bunch of attractions in Munich.

2 to 3 Days in Munich Itinerary

Now you’ve seen how easy it is to arrive and navigate a trip around Munich, you’ll be itching to explore everything the Bavarian capital has to offer.

To make the most of your time in Munich, read our itinerary for Munich so you can tick every bucket list item off your list.

Day 1 – Marienplatz, St Peter’s Church, the Residenz & More

Marienplatz.

Start your first day at the heart of life in Munich, the Marienplatz. This is the city’s central square. It’s where all of the important streets converge to become one.

In the summer, sun bounces off the paved streets and the square’s beautiful buildings. In the winter, it’s a different story. The square is lined with small wooden huts that are selling mulled wine and gingerbread cookies.

Despite the seasonal differences, there’s plenty to enjoy all your round in Marienplatz. This is why there really is no best time to visit Munich as there are benefits to every season.

The first is one of Munich’s most impressive buildings, the new town hall. Built in the Neo-gothic style, the new town hall is a striking feature of the Munich skyline. While it functions as a city hall, many parts are open to tourists.

Before you head inside, make sure to witness the magic of the Glockenspiel. One of the largest in Europe, the Glockenspiel has 43 bells and chimes three times a day at 11am, 12pm and 5pm. Note that it only chimes at 5pm from March through October. The tune is delightful and worth the watch if you happen to be in, or near, the square at one of those times.

For a great view of Munich, head up the new town hall tower. At 85 metres, you’ll get excellent views of the Old Town, and you won’t even break a sweat because it’s all elevators to the top. Keep in mind that entry is paid.

As well as climbing the tower, you can book yourself onto guided tours of the new town hall. These tours provide excellent insights into Munich’s long and interesting history. On the tour, you’ll be able to see the City Hall balcony and the reading room of the law library.

If you want to learn more about this area of the city, you can take a walking tour of the historical centre.

St Peter’s Church

After you’ve explored everything the Marienplatz has to offer, take the short walk over to St Peter’s Church. Built in 1158, this is the oldest church in Munich, and houses a number of treasures, including the high altar.

But by far the most impressive aspect of the church is its tower. Affectionately known by the locals as Alter Peter (Old Peter), the tower costs an additional fee to climb.

Make your way up the 300 steps up the top of the church. As you climb the tower, you’ll be able to glimpse some of its eight bells. Once you reach the top, you’ll be out of breath but rewarded nonetheless.

The top of the tower gives panoramic views of the city, and on a clear day you’ll be able to see the Bavarian Alps.

Viktualiemarkt

Once you’ve made your way down the tower, take the short walk over to the Viktualiemarkt. This fruit and veg market is a feast of flavours. Not only can you buy fresh vegetables and sumptuous smoothies, but you can also purchase truffles, jams, and exotic olives.

You can easily pull together a tasty picnic and gorge on your feast in the market’s own beer garden. Alternatively, consider taking a food tour of the market to learn more from a tour guide and enjoy some tastings!

The Residenz

From the market, walk 10 minutes to the Munich Residenz. If you don’t already know, the Residenz is a grand palace. Once a seat of the government, the palace now acts as a museum and art gallery.

You can purchase a single ticket for the museum or a combined ticket for a visit to the Treasury. While there are guided tours on offer, they can often be long-winded so we recommended nabbing an audio guide instead.

The museum is nothing short of a treasure trove. Its bronze halls are packed with sculptures, and artwork is proudly displayed on the palace walls.

One of the palace’s most magnificent rooms, and a must for anyone, is the Antiquarium – a hall packed with frescoes and designed to house a collection of antiques.

You’ll need to set aside a few hours to take in everything the Residenz has to offer. It is also possible to see an evening concert at the venue.

Hofbrauhaus

Loop back round to the Marienplatz to end your day where you started. But instead of gazing at the centre’s architecture, make a beeline for the Hofbrahaus.

This beer hall is a must for any tourist visiting Munich. Make sure to order a mass of beer and a pretzel for a true Bavarian experience. Alternatively, you can take a guided tour of Hofbrauhaus or join a guided tour that visits several beer halls in the area!

Day 2 – Englischer Garter, Alte Pinakothek & Deutsches Museum

Englischer garten.

Start your second day in Munich in the English Gardens. This sprawling park is one of the largest city parks in Europe. The park was first commissioned in 1789, and is a safe haven for locals and tourists. Wander through the secluded paths that are shielded by oak and maple trees. At the heart of the park lies a lovely lake (Kleinhesseloher See).

Meander around, and make a slow way to the Chinese Tower (Chinesischer Turm). Situated at the heart of the park’s beer garden, this is the perfect place to stop for a light refreshment while soaking in the surroundings.

If you don’t want to sit down just yet, take a gentle walk up a small hill towards the Monopteros (a small Greek temple). If you’re a bit more of a thrill seeker, why not try a spot of surfing in the park too? You can catch a wave at Surfing in the Eisbach – or just stop and watch for a while.

If you want to visit a park but aren’t staying near the Englischer Garten, then head to the Olympic Park for a good walk. But if you want to see Munich in 2 days, you’ll need to press on.

Alte Pinakothek

After a long walk in the fresh air, it’ll be time to soak in some art. As well as beer halls and opulent architecture, Munich is famous for its collection of art. From the Englischer Garten, head to the Alte Pinakothek.

This art gallery houses art from the Middle Ages all the way through to the Renaissance. There are more than 700 paintings to view including a dizzying display of artwork from the Old European Masters.

Situated next to the Alte Pinakothek, is the Neue Pinakothek. Unfortunately, the Neue Pinakothek is closed to the public for renovation works. Instead, a selective collection of paintings from the Neue Pinakothek is on display in the Alte Pinakothek.

Deutsches Museum

Once you’ve spent several hours wandering gazing at all the art the Alte Pinakothek has to offer, it’ll be time to move onto the next site of the day. Head over to the Deutsches Museum. It’s a 30-minute walk from the Alte Pinakothek, or a 20-minute journey on two metro lines (but it’s worth the journey).

Like with the large majority of the museums in Munich, you could easily spend a whole day exploring the Deutsches museum. The museum itself is situated on a small island in the Isar river. The grounds of the museum cover 20,000 square metres and it houses 19 permanent exhibitions.

While the museum primarily showcases artefacts rooted in the development of science and technology in Germany, there are also natural science exhibitions and interactive displays for children.

If you only have a couple of hours, focus on the museums that interest you the most.

Day 3 – Neuschwanstein Castle

Neuschwanstein.

If you have 3 days in Munich, head further afield to Neuschwanstein Castle. This fairytale castle is arguably Germany’s most famous castle.

Neuschwanstein was originally commissioned by King Ludwig II, who planned to use the palace as a retreat, but construction wasn’t completed until after his death.

While the easiest way to reach Neuschwanstein is by car (you can browse options on Rentalcars.com ), there are other options too. Trains to Neuschwanstein (Fussen train station) depart from Munich’s main station and take roughly 2 hours and 25 minutes each way. You can also book a guided tour here.

Before you embark on a day trip to Neuschwanstein, make sure you’ve purchased tickets online. While you can purchase tickets at the ticket office, you’ll need to get there very early to avoid disappointment.

Whether you’ve driven or jumped on the train, you’ll need to walk to the castle entrance. In order to arrive at the entrance, you’ll need to walk up a steep hill. If your feet are too tired, you can also pay a little extra to be ferried up to the entrance via a horse-drawn carriage – in true fairy tale style.

By now the outside of the castle will have left you gobsmacked, but the interior is just as stunning with no expense spared. If you’ve purchased the combination ticket, you’ll be visiting Hohenschwangau Castle after your first tour has ended. While this castle isn’t as stunning, it’s still worth a visit.

After you’ve explored both of the palaces, head over to the nearby lake to stretch your legs around the public footpath. The walk around the lake is 5km in total. It provides some peace and quiet away from the hordes of tourists. This fairytale castle is the perfect way to finish exploring Munich in 3 days.

Where to Stay in Munich

Hotel MIO   – A comfortable mid-range hotel, they offer a range of double rooms with modern amenities. There is the option to include breakfast in the nightly rate.

Platzl Hotel   – A luxury option located close to the Hofbräuhaus Brewery, they have a range of rooms and suites with guests able to enjoy the on-site gym and spa, bar and restaurant.

Euro Youth Hostel – One of the top-rated hostels in Munich, they offer a large number of different dormitories as well as private rooms. There is a bar on site and breakfast is available though not included in the nightly rate.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Munich!

Munich is a city that packs a punch. Our Munich itinerary is filled with art galleries, museums, fairytale locations and beer halls. There’s a little bit of something for everyone in the Bavarian capital, but it’ll always leave you wanting more. If you do have more time, take a hike in the Bavarian Alps or explore more of Munich’s museums.

Are you planning a trip to Munich? Have any questions about this 3-day itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Frankfurt Itinerary

The Perfect 1 to 2 Days in Cologne Itinerary

Munich or Frankfurt: Which German City to Visit?

About Hope Brotherton

Hope is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Birmingham, England, she is passionate about budget-friendly travel and incorporating greener and more eco-friendly travel into her adventures. She keeps returning to Italy but loves to travel around any European country.

Hello Brotherton! Thank you so much for your sincere and informative writing. I am planning to visit Switzerland & Germany to enjoy Christmas and New Year’s eve. Switzerland 8 days and 4 days Germany. (3 days in Munich and 1 day in Bavarian Alps). I already got my 3 days Munich itinerary (1 January-3 January) from your writing. COULD YOU PLEASE tell me if can I spend only 1 day in Bavarian Alps? What should I do in Bavarian Alps for only ONE DAY? Should I stay at night in Munich while I will visit Bavarian Alps? I will leave Munich (Germany) for my country Dhaka, Bangladesh on 5th January 2023. Your writing is great and helpful for me. Thanks in advance.

hello, I’m considering germany for new years. did you visit Bavarian Alps last year? is it accessible in Winter?

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Germany > Munich > Suggested Itineraries for Munich

Top 10 Munich Tips | Suggested Itineraries For Munich

• Top 10 Things To Do
• Old Town Walking Tour
• English Garden Walking Tour
• Oktoberfest
• Dachau Memorial
• More Sights
• Overview & Dates
• Top 25 Oktoberfest Tips
• Best Beer Tents
• How To Dress
• Most Popular Songs
• Table Reservations
• Beer and Wine Tips
• History Of Oktoberfest
• Best Day Trips
• Helpful Tourist Tips
• Suggested Itineraries for Munich
• Transportation Tips
• Historical Overview

Suggested Itineraries for Munich:

Suggested Stay :  3-4 Full Days Oktoberfest Changes :  Obviously the sample itineraries for Munich listed below would change to be heavy on Oktoberfest if you are visiting during the end of September.  Make sure to read our complete  Oktoberfest guide  to help plan your visit.  Table reservation for Oktoberfest can be super hard to get, so you may want to visit during the week of instead of the packed weekends.  You will also want to plan ahead and have a hotel reserved as early as 6-8 months in advance as the prices will skyrocket and rooms will sell out.

Related Article :   Top 10 Things To Do In Munich

Helpful Tip :   Best Places To Stay In Munich

Planning Your Time:

Overall, itineraries for Munich can differ greatly so here are our suggestions to make sure you can fit all of the best experiences into your schedule.  We often get asked “what is there to do in Munich in two days?”, and the answer really depends on how much you are willing to plan out your time.  Three to four days is the minimum amount of time you need to truly see all of the main sights around Munich, but you can still do a lot with a well planned 1-2 day itinerary as seen below.  We suggest staying 4 full days if you can as we like to take a  side trip from Munich  while visiting town and we also usually need plenty of time to sleep off Bavarian beer hall hangovers.  Regardless of how long your visit is we know you’ll love this amazing city and enjoy our suggested itineraries for Munich!

One Day In Munich:

If you only have one full day in Munich you really should center your itinerary in and around Munich’s historic Old Town ( Altstadt ).  If you start this suggested itinerary for Munich early you will be able to see all of our  Old Town Walking Tour  sights including a full visit to the Munich Residenz.  Victuals Market ( Closed Sundays ) is a good place to grab lunch during while following our walking tour, although there are also options near Old Town Square.

In the afternoon you will have time to wander through the Southern half of our  English Garden Walking Tour  including the River Surfing and Chinese Tower Beer Garden.  The outdoor beer garden is self-service with many food options, has over 6,000 seats, and is centered on a 6 story tall gazebo.  After relaxing in the English Garden, spend your evening with dinner and drinks at the famous Hofbräuhaus Beer Hall for a truly German experience; it’s amazing.  From our own experience, this suggested itinerary is the best way to spend 24 hours in Munich.

•Day 1:  Morning  Old Town Walking Tour  with full Munich Residenz tour.  Lunch at Victuals Market.  Afternoon  English Garden Walking Tour .  Evening dinner and drinks at the Hofbräuhaus.

Morning  Old Town Walking Tour  with full Munich Residenz tour.

Afternoon  English Garden Walking Tour .

Evening dinner and drinks at the Hofbräuhaus.

Two Days In Munich:

There is a TON you can accomplish with 2 days in Munich, but you’ll need to choose what to do wisely!  Even with just 48 hours in Munich, it really starts to open your itinerary options up as you can use your 2nd day to pop out to the amazing Neuschwanstein Castle.  The Castle is considered the greatest fairy tale castle in all of Europe and is our favorite castle to visit in the entire World.  If this Alpine castle looks familiar that may because it inspired Walt Disney to design his iconic theme park castle.

You need to book your Neuschwanstein Castle tour time at least 3 days in advance, but the train ticket with the Bayern Pass you can get the same day.  We suggest leaving early to make the itinerary more flexibility but don’t worry you can always take a nap on the train if needed.  Depending on your preferences you can swap Neuschwanstein Castle one of our other day trips  or more time in Munich.  In the other suggested itineraries for Munich listed below, we list more options, but we feel this is the best way to maximize the fun for two days in Munich.  End night two at for dinner and drinks at the Augustiner Beer Garden which is the favorite of locals and sits just north of the train station.

•Day 1: Morning   Old Town Munich Walking Tour  with Lunch at Victuals Market or Old Town Square.  Afternoon  English Garden Tour .  Dinner & drinks at the Hofbräuhaus.

• Day 2:   Day trip from Munich to Neuschwanstein Castle ( 2 hour train ).  Evening at Augustiner Beer Garden.

Day trip  to Neuschwanstein Castle.

Evening at Augustiner Beer Hall & Garden.

Three Days In Munich:

If you can stay at least 3 days in Munich you will start to really fall in love with the city.  The best thing that a 3-day itinerary for Munich does is lets you see Old Town at a slower pace on day 1 so you can really investigate the museums in a little better depth.  Our favorite museum in Old Town is the Munich Royal Residence ( Residenz ) which was built as a small castle in 1385, was expanded over the centuries into a sprawling palace, and remained the royal residence until 1918.  The ornate rooms, portrait galleries, elegant theater, and the impressive treasury of the Munich Residenz deserve half of a day’s attention.  Ending your 1st day in Munich at the lively Hofbrauhaus is always a must.

Just like our 2-day suggested itinerary for Munich, you’ll get a full day at Neuschwanstein Castle, but will also be able fit in a visit to the historic Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial on your last morning.  With 3 days to work with we also like to split up our Old Town and English Garden walking tours on separate days to help make it feel more relaxed.  After watching some river surfing, relaxing in the park, and grabbing a laid-back drink at the Chinese Tower Beer Garden, get your final dinner in Munich at the Baker’s Mill Restaurant ( Pfistermühle ).   Dating back to 1573, the restaurant was originally the grain mill for the Duke of Munich, and today is beautifully covered in vines.  The Baker’s Mill is also very close to the Hofbräuhaus if you are looking to re-visit it once last time for a nightcap.

•Day 1: Morning  Old Town Munich Walk with lunch and shopping time.  Afternoon a full Munich Residenz tour.  Evening at the Hofbräuhaus for dinner, drinks, and music.

• Day 2:   Day trip from Munich to Neuschwanstein Castle ( 2-hour train ).  Dinner and drinks at the Augustiner Beer Hall & Garden.

• Day 3:  Morning take a short side trip to the  Dachau Concentration Camp .  Afternoon  English Garden Walking Tour  with Chinese Tower Beer Garden.  Dinner at the Baker’s Mill Restaurant ( Pfistermühle ) and a nightcap at Hofbräuhaus.

Side trip to the  Dachau Concentration Camp .

Afternoon  English Garden Walking Tour  with time to relax.

After visiting the Chinese Tower Beer Garden, dinner at the Baker’s Mill Restaurant (Pfistermühle).

Four Days In Munich:

Four days in Munich is really the perfect amount of time to spend here as your days will be full, but you’ll still be left with a strong desire to return again someday.  This longer 4 day suggested itinerary for Munich will let you see the highlights of Old Town and the surrounding area without getting burnt out.  It will also give you a little flexibility in your schedule a to sleep in one morning if needed after drinking one too many strong Bavarian beers the night before.

With 4 days to work with, we like to use the 3rd day as a float day where you can see some of the other sights around the edges of Munich.  If you are feeling really energetic you easily pop on a morning train to either Salzburg or Berchtesgaden for an extra day trip from Munich  while napping on the train on the way.  The Bayern Regional Train Pass covers your round-trip travel for a group really cheap to either place making it very tempting if you are up for it.  Other popular day trips as fillers are Zugspitze Peak and Rothenburg, although we like to stay overnight while visiting Rothenburg as it’s more romantic when the hoards of tourist leave in the evening.

Day 4 will pretty much carry over from our 3-day suggested itinerary for Munich.   This final day will let you visit the Dachau Memorial Camp, stroll through the English Garden sights, and get an excellent final dinner at the historic Baker’s Mill Restaurant.

•Day 1:   Old Town Munich Walking Tour  with Residenz tour during the day.  Hofbräuhaus for dinner and drinks at night.

• Day 2: Side trip from Munich to Neuschwanstein Castle ( 2-hour train ).  Evening at Augustiner Beer Garden.

• Day 3:  Morning visit to  Nymphenburg Palace  followed by the Pinakothek Museums in the afternoon.  Also consider the BMW factory & the Olympic Park Area.

•Alternative Day 3:   Day trip from Munich to Salzburg ( 90-minute train ) or Zugspitze Peak ( 2 hours away ).

• Day 4:  A short side trip to the  Dachau Concentration Camp .  Afternoon  English Garden Walking Tour  with Chinese Tower Beer Garden.  Dinner at the Baker’s Mill Restaurant ( Pfistermühle ).

Five Days In Munich:

What is there to do in Munich over 5 full days and how can I fill my time?  If you have 5 full days in Munich you can pretty much fit all of the major things to do into your itinerary without feeling rushed.  Much of our 5-day plan follows the outline of the shorter sample itineraries for Munich listed above, but with the added option to fit in a 2nd potential day trip .

Depending on your travel plans before or after Munich, you may want to strongly consider staying overnight in either Salzburg or Rothenberg on the 3rd or 4th night to give yourself two trips in one.  After your mid-trip overnight stay, you’ll then be able to return to Munich with plenty of time to re-visit any of our suggested walking tour sights you may have had to rush days earlier.  The 5th day will also give you a chance to tour some of the great sights on the edges of Munich that many tourists overlook like the Nymphenburg Palace, the Pinakothek Museums, the BMW factory, and the Olympic Park Area.

•Day 1: Old Town Walk with full Residenz tour during the day.  Dinner at the Hofbräuhaus.

• Day 2: Neuschwanstein Castle day trip ( 22-hour train ).  Evening at Augustiner Beer Garden.

• Day 3: Dachau Concentration Camp & the English Garden

• Day 4: Day trip from Munich to Salzburg ( 90 minute train ), Berchtesgaden ( 2.5 hour train ), -or-  Rothenburg ( 2.5 hour train ).  Possible overnight stay.

•Day 5:  Visit Nymphenburg Palace and your choice of Other Munich Sights .  Revisit anything to missed from our walking tours.

Top 10 Things To Do In Munich:

1.  Attend Oktoberfest 2. Beer Gardens & Hofbräuhaus 3.  Explore Old Town Munich 4. Old Town Square 5. English Garden Walking Tour

Read More : Top 10 Things To Do In Munich

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20 essential travel tips for every first-time Munich visitor

Everything first-timers need to know to get around Munich, from transport tips to top attractions to Bavarian etiquette

Sure, you might know about Munich’s great museums, foodie scene and the ridiculous amount of beer on offer. But did you know about having to carry cash? Or that shops are always closed one day of the week?

Did you know you can surf here on the side of the street? Or that you can get into a museum for a euro? Well, if any of this is news to you, it sounds like you need this list. Our local writer has compiled the 20 essential things you need to know before you visit Munich. This is your holy grail. Enjoy!

RECOMMENDED:  📍 The best  things to do in Munich 🍴 The best  restaurants in Munich 🍻 Best places  to drink beer in Munich 🏺 The best  museums in Munich 🏛️ The best  attractions in Munich

Naomi Kaye is a writer based in Munich. At Time Out, all of our  travel guides  are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines . 

An email you’ll actually love

Essential tips for every first-time Munich visitor

1.  Prepare for the ‘Millionendorf’ atmosphere

Munich isn’t just any city. The word to describe the vibe here is gemutlich, which means cosy, and let us tell you, it lives up to the name. And that’s what’s behind the term Millionendorf - Munich is the kind of place where you say hello on the street, you know your local shopkeepers, and you always make space for bikes. It’s not a skyscraper city, more like a little village. Take it in. 

2.  Carry cash

While major supermarket chains and shopping outlets are likely to accept your credit card, most restaurants and stores in Munich will only accept cash or EC-cards (like debit cards). Make sure you have enough euros with you for everyday use. The COVID-19 pandemic has dented the German love of cash, but hard currency remains king in these parts.

3.  We’re pretty direct

Germans have a reputation for being very direct, and Bavarians are no exception. If you walk into the bike lane by accident or commit some other faux pas, chances are someone will let you know. This honesty also has some pay-offs, though – if you leave your wallet at a restaurant, someone may well run after you to return it, or if you lose a mitten on the sidewalk, you could find it hanging from a fence or tree near where you left it.

4.  The Bavarian dialect can be tough

Pleased you’ll have no issue with dialect because you’re fluent in German? We’ve got bad news. The Bavarian dialect can be tricky to understand even for native Germans. Need a couple starters? Pfiade (goodbye), Rozgloggn (a stuffy nose), Fraibialädschn (a person who’s a big taker but not a very generous giver). That should do you. 

5.  You can surf here sans ocean

At the Eisbach  on the Isar river, you’ll see people catching waves whatever the weather – there are other points where the river converges to create a surf wave, but the Eisbach is the most notable and attracts a lot of onlookers. Admittedly, people are more warmly dressed for surfing here than in Hawaii.

Check out more of the best things to do in Munich . 

6.  We’re bananas for Boazn

Want the ultimate local drinking experience? Hit up one of the city’s boazn , Munich’s equivalent of dive bars. They’re mostly quite cosy, with slot machines, neighbourhood drunks and effusive bartenders who can offer you not just a freshly tapped beer but also some life advice.

While you’re at it, check out our guide to the best bars in Munich .  

7.  Sometimes museum visits are just one euro

A museum tour is well worth your time in Munich, as the city is home to many world-class art galleries, science museums and even some obscure offerings including the Kartoffelmuseum (Potato Museum) and the Jagd- und Fischerei-Museum (the Hunting and Fishing Museum). On Sundays, a visit to many of the city’s finest costs only one euro.

Check out more of the best museums in Munich . 

8.  Peruse the outdoor markets

Munich’s famous year-round produce market, the Viktualienmarkt , is where to head for fresh food and brews in a gigantic beer garden. All around the city, other farmers’ markets draw the locals in – check neighbourhood listings to find out what’s closest to you. And in winter, don’t forget to explore the numerous Christkindlmarkts , Munich’s Christmas markets… perhaps a Glühwein (mulled wine) or a Lebkuchen (gingerbread) is in order.

9.  A car is unnecessary in Munich

Locals do love their BMWs and Mercedes, but you can totally get by without a car in Munich (and frankly, given the cost of petrol and prevalent rush-hour traffic, this is a good idea). Public transport is comprehensive and excellent, most of central Munich is walkable and bike lanes (and rentals) are everywhere and widely used.

10.  No Sunday shopping

Before you plan out your week (or weekend) in Munich, make sure you make note of the fact that most stores (supermarkets included) are closed on Sundays. Stock up on those groceries and plan your vintage shopping trip for another day, folks. Oh and don’t worry, there are emergency supermarkets and a bunch of pharmacies that stay open, so you won’t be stranded. 

11.  You might actually see trachten (traditional German garments)

Yes, Munich locals do really wear lederhosen and dirndls (as well as janker , and other classic Bavarian clothing) on special occasions like weddings or going to church. You’re welcome to sport your own tracht if you like – just be aware that a proper, well-made piece is costly. That said, a really good set of trachten  can last for generations.

12.  Take a hike

A huge perk of Munich life is the city’s quick and convenient access to the mountains. Hop on a train and you’ll be at a trailhead in less than an hour. Paths are well marked, and most of them feature Almhütte where you can enjoy a beer surrounded by the mountain air, adorable cows and breathtaking scenery.

13.  Keep an eye out for street art

Sometimes Munich comes off as a bit staid and conservative, but the city definitely has an edgy side – which often manifests itself through street art. Local graffiti artists’ work can be found primarily in bike and pedestrian tunnels that run throughout the city centre. You might have to search a little while, but the hunt pays off.

14.  All about that bread

This is not the city for a low carb diet; the bread in Munich is unbeatable. Salty pretzels, dark rye bread, yeast buns with raisins and sourdough are just some of the excellent baked goods you can get in this city. Bakeries abound – so you’ll never lack options. Better yet, find out how to eat like a local in Munich (pretzels included). 

15.  Try a group tour

Munich has a wide array of city tours you can take to help explore the city and understand its history and culture. Bike tours are particularly popular, as the city is so cycle-friendly, though also worthwhile are walking tours on topics as diverse as the local food scene, the Second World War and Bavaria’s former royalty. And if you’re that way inclined, why not try one of the brewery tours – or another around the BMW manufacturing plant?

16.  Check out a castle

Munich and its surroundings have several castles that are worth a visit if you want to see how former Bavarian royalty lived. Schloss Nymphenburg, in particular, makes for a decent day trip, as it also features beautiful gardens, a neighbouring science museum, a river brimming with hungry carp, and indoor botanical gardens.

17.  Don’t stop at Oktoberfest

Sure, the city is famous for Oktoberfest, but that’s hardly the only festival worth attending in Munich. The popular Tollwood festival occurs twice yearly (summer and winter) with international food, a circus and live music. Opera, music, theatre and comedy festivals are well attended and often sell out quickly. Just about every neighbourhood also has its own annual street festival, usually with hot food, live music and kids’ activities.

18.  Don’t overlook the airport

It’s true that most of the time when you arrive at your destination, you want to get ‘there’ as quickly as possible – which means getting out of the airport. But the Munich airport has quite a bit going on: it has its own brewery, and there’s a giant observation area where you can watch the planes take off, play mini-golf or check out an exhibit on air travel. It also has one of the only supermarkets open in Munich on a Sunday.

19.  Music is everywhere

Munich has something for every kind of music lover, from opera (your ticket even includes public transport there and back) and jazz – try catching a show in an unfinished underground station – to huge rock and pop arena gigs. Check out the university offerings as well; there are countless talented student-run orchestras, bands and choral groups.

20.  Treat yourself at an Apotheke

Whether you’ve come down with a cold in Munich or are just looking for some fancy French body lotion, the city’s many Apotheken  are here to help. Pharmacists are familiar with the most common ailments and can provide advice as to what sorts of over-the-counter medications might help. At many Apotheken , you can also stock up on all sorts of high-end European skincare products.

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25 Unique Things to Do in Munich (Plus 4 Day Munich Itinerary!)

If you’re reading this, you’re probably in the process of planning your Munich itinerary or perhaps wondering if you should visit Munich on your next trip to Europe.

The answer is simply YES. Munich is a stunning city with so much to see and experience. The city is one of the most beloved in all of Europe and despite the turmoil it has seen, it has stood strong as one of Europe’s center points for interest and tourism.

As someone with German heritage, I have spent myself thinking often about a visit to Germany, so our summer plans involving several weeks in Germany has ignited an inspiration in me to explore the stomping grounds of my ancestors and learn more about the history of a nation that has created so many waves in society.

I will be blunt in saying you need a week or more to really see Munich, but time is short and there is so much to see in the World, so we’re going to work with the typical visit time of 4 days.

Our mission is to give you a big enough taste to whet your appetite and leave your memories of Munich as magic. Not just a Munich City guide but and actual layout based on our own experiences in the city.

Don’t leave home without: Lonely Planet Germany (Travel Guide)

Things to do in Munich – Day 1

Table of Contents

Today is your first full day in Munich and it’s time for you to get acquainted with the city. While Munich may be one of Europe’s big cities, you’ll find the main area of the city is surprisingly small and easy to navigate.

We spent 3 weeks in Germany : Check out our Germany articles !

Take A Free Walking Tour of Munich

Grab yourself a hearty breakfast at your hotel in the morning before heading off to the Marienplatz main square to join up with the Free Walking Tour of Munich by Sandemans NewEurope.

Many people that we talk to are wary of joining up with these types of tours because they don’t understand how they work. The tours are literally free of charge.

They usually last 2-2.5 hours and take you to the most popular areas of the city by a knowledgeable and cheery guide. You’ll learn some of the history of the city, a bit about the Nazi Occupation and some pretty great stories about the people that lived in and built up Munich.

While you are under no obligation to do so, the guides work for tips, so at the end of the tour you just tip the guide and go along your way.

We have found this is the single best way to acquaint yourself with a new city on your first day and highly recommend looking into the free walking tours in every European city.

Don’t Miss the Rathaus-Glockenspiel

Your tour should end back at Marienplatz just in time to catch the 12pm showing of the famous Glockenspiel. Part of the second reconstruction of the new Town Hall, this Rathaus-Glockenspiel dates back to 1908 and performs every day at 11am. During the summer, it also performs at 12pm and 5pm.

Lasting 12-15 minutes, it is a beautiful feat of old-time entertainment and a depiction of a royal wedding. The square will be packed during the performance so be mindful of your belongings as it’s prime time for the pick pockets.

Lunch at the Hofbräuhaus

If you joined the first free walking tour around 10am, then you will be done around 12:30pm. Grab some lunch at one of the World’s most famous beer halls, the Hofbräuhaus .

Serving typical German fare and liter sized beer steins of their own brew, this place is all about the atmosphere as lederhosen clad staff sling beer steins across tables and sweet smiling ladies carry around baskets of freshly backed pretzels. Just remember not to have too many liters at lunch, you have a city to see!

Church of Our Lady Munich

This church is located slightly off the main square and has an interesting story regarding the building of the church. Back in the day, building a church of this size would take many years. Think, 80 years or more, so you can imagine the surprise of the people when this particular church was completed in just 20 years.

Legend has it that the devil himself assisted in the building of the church, giving the reason as to why it was completed so fast. He ordered a church to be built with no windows, so that he could enter the house of God and spread his vile teachings while being obstructed from the light of day.

Now, the builders were clever and constructed the back of the church without windows, so when the devil would enter, he would think the church was built without windows.

Much to his surprise, the day it was finished he decided to take a stroll to the front of the church where he discovered massive windows letting in the light from the heavens.

In a fit of rage he stamped his foot and disappeared leaving a large footprint in the back of the church. Whether you believe the story or not, it’s worth a visit to to place your foot in the print of the devil.

St Peter’s Church

After you’ve compared shoe size with the devil, head over to the St Peters Church, poke your head inside and then step out the back and climb the tower.

If you want to enjoy a view of the entire city center from the tower you must climb no less than 299 steps. Once you reach the top, the panoramic view of Munich’s center makes up for the effort. When the weather is very good you may even catch a glimpse of the Alps in the distance.

There is an entrance fee for the observation deck of 2 euro per person and it is worth it to spend a little loose change for the telescopes that allow many an interesting detailed look at the Old Town once you reach the top.

Read reviews and check prices with our Hotel Search Engine , that gives you the best hotel deals found on the web. Our search engine pulls results from all of the major booking places, including Expedia, Hotels, Booking and more. All the options, all the deals, all in one place and just for you.

What to do in Munich – Day 2

Now that you’ve had a taste for some of the old city, take a journey into history to learn more about the people that have lived and occupied Munich. Our Munich itinerary takes you first to the outskirts and then back to the city center.

Visit Nymphenburg Palace

Try to start your day early today by getting to breakfast at your hotel right when it starts. Then head outside and grab the local tram for a journey to the Nymphenburg Palace that is just outside the city center.

If you time it right, you will arrive right when the palace opens and you will have the place almost to yourself having beat the tour buses.

I recommend buying the ticket that gives you access to everything on offer, although if your budget is tight or you are short on time, then I wouldn’t miss the main museum exhibits and the stable.

No matter which ticket you buy, head straight into the main museum to get a good head start on the crowds. This should afford you an almost undisturbed visit.

Just as you make your way towards the stable, you’ll see the buses arrive and can smile enjoying the stable alone as well. The gardens can be visited without a ticket and are worth a stroll. After your visit, hop back on the tram and head back towards the city center.

Third Reich Afternoon Walking Tour

If the history of the Nazi occupation and rise interests you, then we can recommend that you take a Third Reich walking tour in the afternoon. Just make sure that it ends before 4pm so you have time to head over to the Royal Residenz. 

Related Article:   Vegan Guide to Munich

Royal Residenz

The secret to visiting this beautiful museum is to arrive late in the day. Most of the tour groups will have left and there will be very few people wandering inside the museum.

You won’t be able to take too much time, but if you arrive at 4pm, you’ll have 2 full hours to walk the museum before it closes during summer hours. We are not lying when we tell you that you’ll have the place to yourself with the exception of the odd audio guide listener.

Walking the hallways without tour groups is an almost haunting experience and something you will experience very few times in your life. Getting there late in the day is crucial if you want this experience. Be sure to buy the full ticket that gives you access to the main museum and the theater.

Dinner at Ratskeller München

Rest your weary feet after a day of exploring in the underbelly of the city. Located underneath the Marienplatz town hall, in the old beer cellars, is the delightful traditional German beer house and restaurant of Ratskeller .

Make reservations the day before and be prepared to enjoy local sausage specialties and a variety of top brewed German beers on your visit. I can personally recommend the German white sausage,

Wolwürst that comes with mashed potato salad and kraut. Start with a small beer because you may not get all the food and drink in your belly otherwise! As absolute must on your Munich itinerary.

Munich Itinerary – Day 3

You’ve spent 2 days in Munich and only scratched the surface yet it’s imperative that you visit some of the sites on the outskirts as well.

Dachau Concentration Camp

After your morning coffee, hop back on the local transport and take the train out to the Dachau Concentration Camp . It is a 30-minute ride and you don’t need a tour to visit.

The camp is well signed with easy walking directions from the train stop into the main camp. While this might seem like a disturbing visit for some people, it is incredibly important that you visit a concentration camp to learn about what happened there, how it happened and why it happened.

Each building is open and has been made a museum giving you an up close look into the life of the prisoners and guards that occupied Dachau during Nazi Germany.

It’s a moving experience and you will need the whole morning for the visit so be sure to arrive right when it opens. After your visit, take the train back to Munich. Read about our first hand account of  Visiting Dachau Concentration Camp, Munich here.

English Gardens and River Surfing

When you return to the city from Dachau, grab a bite to eat and make your way to the English Gardens. This is the best way to follow up such a contemplative visit as the concentration camp and give you some time to process your thoughts. A great way to see this area and the neighboring historic center in a small group setting is by Segway tour .

This park is the epitome of nature in a big city and a fabulous way to get away from the hustle in Munich (it’s a very busy city). Be sure to take a few moments to watch the river surfers catch some waves. Yes, skilled and experienced surfers catch waves in the river that flows through the park.

Alternatively, you could head over to Olympic Park and the BMW manufacturer for a tour if you are looking for something a bit faster paced.

Things to do in Munich – Day 4

Munich is strategically places in South Germany leaving you many options for exploring outside the city. The only downside is that you can’t combine them all in one day.

Each takes a day and it can be very time consuming if you get caught up doing day trips outside the city. A solid week will allow you to take a couple day trips and see the heart of Munich. In 4 days, you really only have time for one of two day trips.

Take a Day Tour to Neuschwanstein Castle

Just 1.5 hours from Munich you can find yourself at the foothills of the Alps, wandering a tiny Bavarian village with pretzel in hand. The main draw to this area is the fabled castle of Neuschwanstein , built by the mad King Ludwig II and completed in 1886.

It was a respite for the withdrawn King and after being removed from the throne, he only spent 11 nights in his beloved castle before he was murdered.

Witness the fairy tale castles of Neuschwanstein and Linderhof, created by Germany’s 19th-century King Ludwig II, on a day trip from Munich .

The castle is spectacular, set in a mountain setting and it’s hard to visit without conjuring up thoughts of fairy tales and royal musings. There are several places to view the castle from and people wishing to capture great photos should arrive in the early hours to beat the hoards of tourists that visit the castle.

You can visit in one of two ways, take the bus from Munich on your own- it drops you in Hohenschwangau and you then walk up the hill to the castle or take a day tour that will also include a ticket to visit the inside. For a detailed guide, read our article How to Visit Neuschwanstein Castle from Munich .

Unless you are well planned in advance, getting at ticket to visit the inside without a tour or advanced reservation will be nearly impossible in the summer.

Opening hours of Neuschwanstein Castle

April to 15 October: 8 am-5 pm 16 October to March: 9 am-3 pm Closed 1 January and 24 / 25 / 31 December

Admission charges to tour Neuschwanstein Castle: 13 euros regular · 12 euros reduced Children and young people under 18 are free. 

Königsticket (King’s ticket) for both Neuschwanstein Castle and Hohenschwangau Castle on the same day: 25 euros regular · 23 euros reduced

Kombiticket “Königsschlösser” (combination ticket King Ludwig II’s palaces): 24 euros The combination ticket is valid for six months; you can visit each of the places Neuschwanstein

Other Day Trips from Munich

Due to the location of Munich, you have access to some pretty amazing day trips during your visit. You could easily fill a week of travel with visiting the city and the surrounding area.

There are so many options that we wrote a dedicated article about the  Best Day Trips from Munich , highlighting our favorites.

Just remember that each one of these will take a full day to experience, so choose wisely and based on your preferences. The only ones that combine are a visit to Dachau and Neuschwanstein on the same day but I personally feel Dachau deserves more time than you will get on a combined trip.

More on Things to Do in Munich

Seriously, this is why you visit Germany, right? We’re not big drinkers but we enjoyed sitting in the brew houses for the atmosphere. Imagine Bavarian music bouncing around the room from the acoustics while German waiters and waitresses serve you dressed in their best lederhosen. The pretzel seller walks around, you grab a bite and drink down some of Germany’s famous brews. It is all about the atmosphere and must not be missed.

Drinking beer in Munich should be accompanied by a visit to any of the BratwurstHause’s you can find. Throw your diet to the curb and try all of the sausage delights on offer with a little sauerkraut on the side. They also serve an interesting German potato salad if you can manage to squeeze that into your belly.

Attend Oktoberfest

If you’re traveling Munich in the Fall, consider planning your trip around Oktoberfest. Arguably the biggest beer fest in the world, this is a cultural and entertainment event not to be missed. You can even pick up your own lederhosen and join in on the fun.

Basic Information for Visiting Munich

Accommodation.

Location is essential to maximize your time in the city. Personally, we prefer to stay near the train station so when we arrive, we can walk a short distance to our hotel and drop our bags. There is a variety of options in the city to suit every budget.

We stayed at the comfortable Hotel Jedermann , located within a 5 minute walk of the central Munich train station. The location was outstanding for us with a 10 minute walk to the city center and front door access to the tram and metro. Read reviews for Hotel Jedermann at TripAdvisor .

It made exploring the city very easy and the service was impeccable. We had a private double room with bathroom that included breakfast. The breakfast was a huge, beautiful buffet with any options.

Other top recommended hotels in Munich, Germany we recommend based on price, rating and location are  Hotel Splendid-Dollmann ,  The Charles Hotel , and the Mandarin Oriental, Munich .

Transportation

The city is well connected with public transport, so reaching things that are outside the city center are very easy to do. Any of the day trips that I mentioned above can easily be done on your own by using the local train system as well. Alternatively, you can book group tours ad nauseam or even rent a car to explore outside the city. Perhaps Munich can be the start of a German road trip adventure for you?

Germany is on the Euro and you can access the Euro in a number of ways. If you are arriving at the airport, you’ll find a variety of ways to either exchange cash or withdraw from an ATM in local currency. Within the city and at your hotel you will be able to exchange cash but be careful of exchange rates.

Ripping off tourists on money exchange is an age old past time around Europe. Don’t sign anything until you have double checked the rate and sure you are getting the right exchange rate.

Planning to visit Munich as part of a Germany road trip? We use  Discover Car Hire  for comparing car prices to find the best deal. They search both local & international rental companies.

More on Germany:

• Driving in Germany? This is the Ultimate Germany Road Trip Guide
• 30 Germany Photos That Will Spark Your Wanderlust
• 13 Perfect Things to do in Hamburg, Germany
• Things to Do in Nuremberg-2 Day Nuremberg Itinerary
• Germany’s Romantic Road: The Only Guide You Need
• 20 Simply Unreal Castles in Germany to Visit
• 10 Best Day Trips from Munich Worth Doing
• How to Visit Neuschwanstein Castle from Munich
• Elegant Elbe River Cruise with Viking River Cruises
• Viking River Cruises in Europe-What to Expect

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Lina is an award-winning photographer and writer that has been exploring the world since 2001. She has traveled to 100 countries on all 7 continents. Member: SATW, NATJA, ATTA, ITWA

19 thoughts on “25 Unique Things to Do in Munich (Plus 4 Day Munich Itinerary!)”

Can anyone tell me what the weather in Neuschwanstein looks like in late March? Are the trees green or bare? Is it beautiful in this time of year? Is the scenery surrounding Neuschwanstein and other palaces nice at the end of March or is it better to visit them in summer? Thank you so much in advance.

I haven’t been to the south of Germany in March, so I can’t say for sure but based on the winter they get I would think you will be too early for spring bloom. Closer to May would probably be better if you are looking for green trees.

we will be in munich the week before Christmas to visit some of the Christmas markets. How is the weather this time of year if you know. We want to see some of the castles, but have concerns about road conditions in those areas. Would it be better to just spend 2 nights in Munich and then plan on staying in the other christmas market towns?

Thanks in Advance.

Hi Brooke, I would imagine the weather will be cold. Not sure they will have much snow, but it is possible for some. I highly recommend checking local forecasts about 2 weeks before your departure date to get a feel for how the weather will be. As far as road conditions, it will all depend on the weather. If they’re not getting a lot of snow or rain I would think travel to the castles you want to see would be perfectly fine. If you’re hesitant, you always have the option of taking a day tour or the train. Hard to say what will be better. 2 nights in Munich and then a couple of nights in some other towns (don’t miss Nuremberg!!!) is great too. It’s all a matter of preference of what you feel is right for you. No matter what, the Christmas markets should be epic. Safe travels, Lina

Hello! I’m looking to book a 4 day trip over New Years Eve as a surprise for my wife. Will attractions and shops/bars still be open to see and would you recommend Munich for new year? Thanks!

Hi Ross, that sounds like an amazing surprise for your wife! Munich will be cold then but there are plenty of museums to visit. It seems that Munich has quite the party in the center of town for New Year’s, so I imagine that would be fun to attend. Can’t tell you for sure on restaurants and shops, might be worth inquiring with one of the hotels in the city. Good luck with your planning, you’ll love Munich.

Hi! I’ll be in Munich in May! My first time to Germany! So we are in Munich 3 days, one for Munich, one is a day trip to Ludwigs castles, and can’t decide if the third day should be a trip to Nuremberg or Regensburg!? The gingerbread has me leaning towards Nuremberg. Haha. I have been trying to decide this for months! Thanks! Christina

Honestly, 1 day in Munich is not enough! I would spent that extra day in the city rather than trying to make a day trip to Nuremberg or Regensberg! Don’t get me wrong, Nuremberg is a great place to visit and we loved it, but it’s a long day trip. No matter what you decide though, you’ll love Germany. Enjoy!

Yeah, I was thinking that too…Munich looks amazing and I really want to absorb all of it! Thank you so much! I LOVE your blog and website, wow…you are my inspiration!! 🙂

Hey. I love your post. I’m planning to go in September for about 2 weeks. I’ll be traveling by myself, and I have penpals all over Germany. I was wondering traveling by train is easier, be a use I’m not able to get a car over there. Do you have any advice for trains/buses and lodging either hostel or Airbnb??

Hi Lindsay, You can easily take the train between cities instead of driving. They also have a great bus network if you prefer that. In terms of lodging, both of those are great options so it really depends on your budget! We use both when we travel. enjoy Germany, it’s a fantastic place to visit.

Very nice post. My wife and I will be there in March for 11 nights. As we will be taking at least 5 day trips is it best to buy train tickets a day at a time or is there a better option? Any other suggestions for day trips as we will have plenty of time?

Hi Tony! In March you should be fine purchasing your tickets the day before or same day as travel. As far as purchasing them all at once or one at a time, that will really depend on your travel schedule. We typically buy them one at a time so that if we end up somewhere we love, we can stay longer or the opposite, if we get bored, can move on sooner than we originally planned. There is one day trip that we thought would be interesting, a trip to the Eagle’s Nest, Hitler’s hideout in the mountains. We didn’t have the time for it on the last visit, but thought it would be a good one! Might want to look into it, not sure if it will be an option in March, will depend on how much snow they have. Cheers and enjoy!

Hi …i am lina and with my husband we will be going to Munich in March …looking forward to go and reading about Munich made it more interesting…so thank so much for your help …

Excellent! You’ll love Munich, if you have any questions don’t hesitate to ask. Cheers!

Your photos are stunning! They give Munich’s beauty justice. Headed there in two weeks to visit family, can’t wait!

Thank you!! I tried really hard to capture Munich in that light and it wasn’t easy! We had so much rain during our visit, I’m wishing better weather for you. 🙂 You’ll love Munich.

Beautiful pictures. Always wanted to go Germany.

Germany is stunning! Stay tuned for our post that contains stunning photos from all over the country. 🙂

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Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Munich International Airport Guide

Best Munich Hotels

Public Transportation

Day Trips From Munich

Top Things to Do

Free Things to Do

Things to Do With Kids

Top Museums in Munich

Munich's English Garden

Complete Guide to Oktoberfest

Top Restaurants in Munich

Best Beer Halls

Top Beer Gardens

Guide to Munich's Hofbräuhaus

Your Trip to Munich: The Complete Guide

Munich , located in the South of Germany, is the capital of Bavaria and the gateway to the German Alps. München, the city's native name, is derived from the Old German word Mönche ("monks") and traces back Munich’s origins as a Benedictine monastery during the eighth century.   Then, Bavaria was ruled for more than 750 years by the kings of the Wittelsbach Dynasty.

Today, Munich is famous for its interesting mix of traditional Bavarian culture, modern living, and high-tech industries. This city's unique contemporary architecture goes hand in hand with grand avenues, first-class museums, and baroque palaces. Of course, Munich is perhaps most famous for its annual Oktoberfest and its rollicking beer halls.

Get the most out of your trip to Bavaria's heartland with this guide, full of tips on where to stay, how to get around, must-try foods (and beers!), and more.

Planning Your Trip

Best Time to Visit :  Munich shines during the spring months, when you'll find great weather and an event calendar packed with festivals and concerts.

Language:  German is the main language spoken in Munich, but English is taught in schools and visitors will encounter many English speakers. Many restaurants have English menus available.

Currency :  Germany is a member of the European Union and therefore uses the Euro. You can find currency exchanges at many large transit hubs, such as the Munich Airport and the Heimeranplatz station.

Getting Around :  Most popular sights and museums are in the city's historic center, which is easily walkable. Should you need to go further afield, Munich's public transportation system, the MVV, is excellent, with modern subways, trams, and buses. 

Travel Tip:  Oktoberfest is the star of Munich's event calendar, drawing more than six million visitors each year  . As the largest beer festival in the world, visiting during Oktoberfest requires a bit of planning—make your travel arrangements well in advance.

Things to Do

For travelers looking for traditional Germany, Munich is it. Whether you're after biergartens or world-class museums, the city has no shortage of things to do . Stroll around Marienplatz , the city's central square, have a beer at Hofbrauhaus, and spend a sunny afternoon in English Garden , Munich's largest park, to experience a few of the best things the city has to offer. 

• Müncheners  love beer, so no visit to the city is complete without popping into Hirschgarten, the world's largest beer garden , for a pint. 
• The Pinakothek der Moderne is the country's largest modern art museum, boasting works from the genre's greats, like Pablo Picasso and Andy Warhol.
• Dachau , one of the first concentration camps of Nazi Germany, is a short trip outside of the city center. A visit here is both horrifying and moving. 

There is also no shortage of free things to do in Munich and the city is extremely kid-friendly , with plenty of activities for the whole family. 

What to Eat and Drink

If you're looking for traditional German food, Munich is the city for it . Bavarian fare is everywhere here, from schweinshaxe (pork knuckle) to sauerkraut and potatoes. Weisswurst, or white sausage, is a must-try. Made with minced veal and pork, the sausage is seasoned with parsley and other spices. The aptly-named Bratwurstherzl is a popular spot both for weisswurst and other regional specialties, like sauerbraten with potato dumplings and spaetzle .

Of course, given that Munich is a major city, it's not all meat and potatoes here. The city is home to a plethora of international-inspired eateries too, like Hey Luigi, a casual Italian restaurant. 

Hofbräuhaus is Munich's most famous beer hall and the largest in Germany, with seating for 5,000 revelers. A visit is a must, but the city is home to other unique beer halls , like Weisses Bräuhaus, where they brew their own wheat beer, and large beer gardens , where you can sip your brew under the shade of ancient trees. 

Where to Stay in Munich

Munich is divided up into 25 different municipalities (called  Stadtbezirke ). Altstadt is among the most popular, as this is where many popular attractions, including  Viktualienmarkt and Marienplatz are located. If luxury shopping is on your itinerary, you'll want to stay close to Old Town’s Maximilianstrasse. Au is another popular neighborhood. This cozy quarter is home to the  Paulaner am Nockherberg  beer festival each year.

Most hotels are located in the city center and with walking distance of the main train station, although a few great options are a bit further out. Hotel Laimer Hof, a 25-minute train ride from the city center, is among the city's best rated, with 23 quaint rooms. In the heart of the historic center, CORTIINA, a TripSavvy Editors' Choice Award winner in 2018, is located a stone's throw from Old Town Hall and St. Peter’s Church. 

See our recommendation for the best hotels in Munich here .

Getting There

Munich’s International Airport, Franz Josef Strauss Flughafen (MUC), is the second busiest airport in Germany after Frankfurt serving around 48 million passengers each year.   The airport is frequently rated as one of the best in the world. Located 19 miles northeast of Munich, the airport is also very well connected to the city: Take the metro S8 or S2 to reach Munich's city center in approximately 40 minutes.

The city is well connected to trains and other forms of public transportation , so unless you're planning on exploring Bavaria extensively, renting a car is not necessary. The city is also served by Uber and a bike share. 

Culture and Customs

While service is included in the bill, generally waiters are tipped ten percent for good service.

Many Germans speak English, but learning a few words of German — how to say hello, thank you, and goodbye, for instance — is a courteous gesture.

If you visit Munich's English Garden, you should know that nudity is allowed in designated areas. The practice isn't as common as it once was, but it is a defining feature of the park. 

Money Saving Tips

• Many of Munich's best attractions, like the Glockenspiel and Frauenkirche are free.
• While the Residence, a former Bavarian palace, isn't free, roam the vast gardens and impressive courtyards.
• In lieu of more expensive restaurant meals, shop at Viktualienmarkt for local and fresh produce, snacks, and other artisan goodies.
• Companies like New Europe offer free Munich walking tours . You'll start in Marienplatz and cover many of Munich's most famous attractions, including the Church of St. Peter and Höfbrauhaus. 
• Oktoberfest is free! But accommodations can be pricey for this massive celebrations, so book in advance.

Encyclopedia Britannica. "Munich."

Official Website for the Oktoberfest in Munich. "Very pleased: A quality Oktoberfest for the whole family." October 22, 2019.

Munich Aiport. "Traffic Figures."

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How to Travel From Frankfurt to Munich by Plane, Train, Bus, or Car

Germany Guide: Planning Your Trip

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Marienplatz in Munich: The Complete Guide

Guide to Munich's Hofbräuhaus

Nightlife in Munich: Best Bars, Clubs, & More

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Tall tankards and high-tech cars, edgy art and Lederhosen – Munich is where traditional and modern sit side by side like few places on earth.

Best Time to Visit

Best things to do, attractions, must-see attractions.

Schloss Nymphenburg

This commanding palace and its lavish gardens sprawl around 5km northwest of the Altstadt. Begun in 1664 as a villa for Electress Adelaide of Savoy, the…

Residenzmuseum

Home to Bavaria's Wittelsbach rulers from 1508 until WWI, the Residenz is Munich's number-one attraction. The amazing treasures, as well as all the…

Alte Pinakothek

Munich's main repository of Old European Masters is crammed with all the major players who decorated canvases between the 14th and 18th centuries. This…

Englischer Garten

The sprawling English Garden is among Europe's biggest city parks – it even rivals London's Hyde Park and New York's Central Park for size – and is a…

Pinakothek der Moderne

Germany's largest modern-art museum unites four significant collections under a single roof: 20th-century art, applied design from the 19th century to…

Bayerisches Nationalmuseum

Picture the classic 19th-century museum, a palatial neoclassical edifice overflowing with exotic treasure and thought-provoking works of art, a repository…

Deutsches Museum

If you’re one of those people for whom science is an unfathomable turn-off, a visit to the Deutsches Museum might just show you that physics and…

Next to the Olympiapark, the glass-and-steel, double-cone tornado spiralling down from a dark cloud the size of an aircraft carrier holds BMW Welt, truly…

Top picks from our travel experts

12 of the best things to do in munich.

Hofbräuhaus

Even if you don't like beer, every visitor to Munich should make a pilgrimage to the mothership of all beer halls, if only once. Within this major tourist…

At the top of a gentle hill in the Englischer Garten stands the heavily photographed Monopteros (1838), a small Greek temple built by 19th-century star…

Altes Rathaus

The eastern side of Marienplatz is dominated by the Altes Rathaus. Lightning got the better of the medieval original in 1460 and WWII bombs levelled its…

Olympiaturm

When the sky is clear you'll have Munich at your feet against the breathtaking backdrop of the Alps from the top of the 290m Olympiaturm. It's one of the…

Augustiner Keller

Every year this leafy 5000-seat beer garden, about 500m west of the Hauptbahnhof, buzzes with fairy-lit thirst-quenching activity from the first sign that…

Marienplatz

The epicentral heart and soul of the Altstadt, Marienplatz is a popular gathering spot and packs a lot of personality into a compact frame. It's anchored…

Viktualienmarkt

Fresh fruit and vegetables, piles of artisanal cheeses, tubs of exotic olives, hams and jams, chanterelles and truffles – Viktualienmarkt is a feast of…

The Kunstareal is the compact Maxvorstadt area, roughly defined by Türkenstrasse, Schellingstrasse, Luisenstrasse and Karlstrasse, which is packed with…

Zum Flaucher

This congenial restaurant-cum-beer garden in the Isar River meadows feels a like a microvacation from the city bustle. The spare ribs are fall-off-the…

Neues Rathaus

The soot-blackened façade of the neo-Gothic Neues Rathaus is festooned with gargoyles, statues and a dragon scaling the turrets; the tourist office is on…

Hirschgarten

The Everest of Munich beer gardens can seat up to 8000 Augustiner lovers, making it Bavaria's biggest – an accolade indeed. It's in a lovely spot in a…

Glockenspiel

The Glockenspiel has 43 bells and 32 figures that perform two historical events. The top half tells the story of a tournament held in 1568 to celebrate…

St Peterskirche

Some 306 steps divide you from the best view of central Munich via the 92m tower of St Peterskirche, central Munich's oldest church (1150). Inside awaits…

Neue Pinakothek

The Neue Pinakothek harbours a well-respected collection of 19th- and early-20th-century paintings and sculpture, from rococo to Jugendstil (art nouveau)…

9 free things to experience in Munich

Kulturzentrum Gasteig

One of Munich's top cultural venues, the Kulturzentrum Gasteig caused quite a controversy in the mid-eighties due to its postmodern, boxy, glass-and-brick…

Though pocket sized, the late-baroque Asamkirche, built in 1746, is as rich and epic as a giant's treasure chest. Its creators, the brothers Cosmas Damian…

Chinesischer Turm

This one's hard to ignore because of its English Garden location and pedigree as Munich's oldest beer garden (open since 1791). Camera-toting tourists and…

Olympiapark

The area to the north of the city where soldiers once paraded and the world's first Zeppelin landed in 1909 found a new role in the 1960s as the…

Olympiastadion

Germans have a soft spot for the Olympiastadion because it was on this hallowed grass in 1974 that the national soccer team – led by the Kaiser Franz…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Things to Know

Munich, Germany’s third-largest metropolis, is a city of tankards and tech, artworks and eccentricity. Here's what you need to know before you come.

Best Neighborhoods

Thanks to Munich’s compact size and excellent bike and public transport network, it’s easy to include many of the most exciting districts in your trip.

Venture beyond magnificent Munich to discover Bavarian mountains, fairy-tale castles and incredible culture on a day trip. Here are 7 of our favorites.

Money and Costs

Munich is one of Germany’s most expensive cities but that doesn't mean you can't visit on a budget. Try these tips for a wallet-friendly trip to Munich.

Transportation

Discover the best ways to travel in Munich, from an extensive bike lane network to a growing number of mobility-sharing initiatives. Cars? Nein danke!

Free Things to Do

From concerts to world-class football, expensive Munich does have some free treats tucked away. Here are 9 of our favorite freebies in Munich.

Traveling with Kids

Munich may be famous for its beer festivals but it's actually a great destination for kids. Here's how to have an amazing trip with the tots in tow.

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One Day In Munich Itinerary: How To Spend An Epic 24 Hours in Bavaria’s Capital

One day in Munich, you say? Can it really be done? Yes, it can and I tell you how in this epic one day in Munich itinerary.

Munich is not exactly a small city. And there’s so much to do in the city of “art and beer.” Munich is beginning to rival Berlin as Germany’s cultural capital.

Nonetheless, a single day may be all the time you can allot. Especially if you’ve got plans to tour Bavaria or cruise down the Danube River .

I’ve done 24 hours in Munich several times and know it can be done. Full disclosure: I was just there again for 3 days and that’s certainly more doable.

But chop chop, prepare for a busy day. Here is a one day in Munich itinerary that will kick your butt.

I give you a whirlwind tour of this great European city. You’ll explore all the best things to do and see in Munich — the city’s top must visit attractions, historic landmarks, beautiful churches, and amazing museums.

If you have more than 1 day in Munich, I also have a 4 day itinerary for Munich .

A Short History of Munich

But first! A short history of this famous Bavarian city. Munich is located in southern Germany. It just two hours north of the Austrian border.

To most people, Munich is synonymous with Oktoberfest and beer gardens. But its medieval German name, München, actually stands for “Home of the Monks.”

Drawn by proximity to Catholic Italy, Benedictine monks settled in what is now Munich in the 8th century. For centuries, the monks conducted much of the trade activity in Munich and effectively governed.

But in 1255, Munich passed into the hands of the House of Wittelsbach. They would would rule Bavaria as monarchs until 1918.

Under the Wittelsbachs, Munich expanded. The Wittelsbachs built magnificent palaces.

Mad King Ludwig II went on a frenzy of castle building . He built the world famous Neuschwanstein Castle , sometimes called the “Cinderella Castle.” Munich sported monumental architecture and wide Italianate boulevards.

But Munich suffered during both world wars. Itss chocolate box scenery was leavened with darkness.

During WWI, the city was practically starved to death. Afterward, the city saw the rise of Hitler and the Nazi party. During WWII, Munich was heavily bombed and largely destroyed.

After WWII, Munich was painstakingly reconstructed. Architects and developers preserved Munich’s original street plan.

They re-created its medieval steeples, Neo-Gothic facades, and Neo-Classical buildings. They created Europe’s first pedestrian zone at Kaufingerstrasse and Neuhauser Strasse.

Munich transformed itself into both a cultural and technological powerhouse. It’s now an elegant and cosmopolitan big city with a small town feel.

Today, in Munich, well-heeled power dressers mix with lederhosen clad beer drinkers. Munich’s been nicknamed the “City of Art and Beer,” “Millionendorf” (village of a million people), and “Toytown.”

Top Tours In Munich

Here are some of the best tours and experiences you can have with one day in Munich. Be sure to book in advance, at least from May through Octoberfest.

• Hitler & Third Reich Tour
• walking tour of historic center
• ghosts & spirits evening walking tour
• evening beer & food tour
• guided bike tour
• market & food tour
• hop on hop off bike ticket

How To Spend One Perfect Day in Munich

But back to our quickie tour of this elegant city. With only 1 day in Munich, begin your whirlwind tour by heading straight to the famed Marienplatz.

1. Marienplatz and the Neues Rathaus

Marienplatz has been a popular meeting place and hub for Munich since the 12th century.

The centerpiece of the grand square is the majestic city hall, named the Neues Rathaus. The city hall is the top attraction in Munich.

Its gaudy Gothic facade is festooned with gargoyles and statues. Often, the Rathaus is dressed with bright red flowers. Inside, you’ll find a toy museum.

You can take an elevator 85 meters to the top for views. Just stop in at the Tourist Office in the building and purchase your 4 euro ticket.

The Glockenspiel sounds at 11 am, noon, and 5 pm. For 12 minutes, motorized figures dance, joust, and twirl around the inside of the tower.

If you’re hungry and want to watch the performance, settle in at Cafe Glockenspiel. The cafe boasts an outstanding view over Marienplatz.

2. St. Peters Church for the Best View

If you want an amazing view of the Rathaus and Marienplatz, you’ve got to hike up the tower in St. Peters Church. It’s the oldest church in Munich.

The church itself is nothing special. But the 360 views at the top can’t be beat.

But, be forewarned, it’s a cramped and steep experience. There’s no room to move at the top. You’ll shuffle inch by inch along the narrow terrace.

3. Munich Residenz

Nothing beats wandering around Munich’s Altstadt or historic old town. You can’t miss the massive Munich Residenz.

The Residenz is the city palace of the Wittlesbach dynasty. It’s located on Max-Joseph Platz.

Much of the palace was destroyed during WWII. But it’s been meticulously restored over the years to its former glory.

With only 1 day in Munich, you likely don’t have time to tour the interior. But you should at least walk around the palace and admire the different facades.

If you want to head inside, it’s entirely possible to whiz through in an hour or. You’ll get a sense for how the royals lived.

And the Residenz is one of the only palaces in Germany where you can actually take photos! Here’s my complete guide to the Munich Residenz .

If your heart pines for more Wittelsbach architecture, take a 20 minute tram ride from the city center Nymphenburg Palace. The palace was the swishy summer home of the Wittelsbach dynasty. Here’s my complete guide to Nymphenburg Palace .

It boasts a grand Stone Hall, a Gallery of Beauties, and captivating garden follies. If Nymphenburg’s not on your 1 day in Munich itinerary, carry on with your tour of Munich’s old town.

> >> Click here to book a skip the line guided tour of the palace

Max-Joseph Platz is also where you’ll find Munich’s National Theater. It’s a photogenic spot, with its dashing Neo-Classical Facade.

If shopping is on your agenda, head to Maximilianstraße for the swanky brands. At the end of the street is the Maximilianeum, home to Bavaria’s state parliament. If you’d like your shopping more affordable, head to Kaufingerstrasse.

4. Munich’s Iconic Churches

As you’re strolling through old town, you can take in some of Munich’s iconic churches, which are mostly clustered together.

The green onion domes of the Frauenkirche are a symbol of Munich and important landmark. Like so munch in Munich, the church was heavily damaged in WWII. But it lovingly restored over 50 years.

A quirky feature of the Frauenkirche is the “Devil’s Footprint” inside. Legend holds that a devil funded the church’s construction.

He handed over the requisite dollars on the condition that the church be an ode to darkness. Upon touring the finished church, the devil allegedly spied a window. In a snit, stamped his foot on a tile. Or so they say …

The mustard yellow church in Munich is the Theatinerkirche, commanding a place of respect on the impressive Odeonsplatz. It’s a divisive building apparently, or so I’ve been told.

But I approve of color in buildings, so liked it. It has a pristine white interior with beautiful ceilings.

Another beauty is the Asamkirche, a tiny Baroque masterpiece. Built in 1746, it’s a treasure trove inside. Every inch of the interior is covered in gold and marble.

If you’re a fan of Mad King Ludwig II and his romantic castles are on your Bavaria itinerary, stop in at 16th century St. Michael’s Church (the exterior is currently under renovation) to pay your respects.

It’s a damp crypt and modest tomb. But it’s typically swathed in flowers in appreciation of the poet-architect king.

If you’re planning a longer vacation to Bavaria, I have the perfect 10 day Bavaria itinerary . Along with some essential tips for visiting Germany , which has some quirky customs of which you should be aware.

5. Odeonsplatz

End your stroll around Altstadt at the Odeonsplatz. Dating from the 19th century, it is still largely unchanged.

The focal point of the square is the Feldherrnhalle. It’s a covered exterior gallery copied from the famous Loggia dei Lanzi, which is on the Piazza della Signoria in Florence .

Nowadays, the loggia is the site of festivals and beer drinking.

But, historically, it’s a very important place. The loggia was the site of the infamous 1923 Beer Hall Putsch. The putsch was Hitler’s failed coup d’etat , when he tried to take over the government of Bavaria.

The putsch actually put Hitler and the fledging Nazi Party on the map. Hitler wound up imprisoned. While in jail,, he wrote Mein Kampf . Later, Hitler rose to power and used the Loggia dei Lanzi as the site of Nazi rallies.

READ : Guide To Nazi Sites in Nuremberg

6. Viktualienmarkt: the Perfect Spot For An Alfresco Lunch

It’s lunchtime (or later). So wander over to Viktualienmarkt for some gourmet sustenance.

It’s Munich’s delightful outdoor food market. It’s crammed to the gills with produce, prepared food to go, and a bustling beer garden.

Victualienmarkt also makes an ideal place to buy German souvenirs. Pro tip: If you buy something to eat, you can actually bring it right into the beer garden.

You can book a  2 hour guided food tour  that includes Viktualienmarkt.

6. Munich’s Vaunted Museums

Munich has some absolutely world class museums. They’re honestly a good reason to stick around for more than one day in Munich.

The museums are clustered together in the Kunstareal or museum district. With limited time, you should pick just one of the many museums. I’ll walk you through your choices.

Munich’s most touted museum is the Alte Pinakothek . There, you’ll find a couple rare Leonardo da Vinci paintings, Albrecht Durer’s mysterious Self Portrait , and other old master treasures.

Click  here  to book a 2 hour tour of the pinakothek.

READ : Guide To all of Leonardo da Vinci’s Paintings

I also liked the Pinakothek der Moderne for cutting edge modern art.

The Neue Pinakothek showcases wondrous modern art. It starts where the Alte Pinakothek leaves off, displaying works by art by Degas, Cézanne, and Monet .

The Neue Pinakothek is currently closed for structural renovations. But an exhibit of its best pieces is on display in the Alte Pinakothek.

Munich also has a hip new museum, the Lenbachhaus . The museum has been generating excitement in Munich. The stunning gold museum has a soaring atrium which glitters with a whirl of colored glass and steel.

The new three story wing was designed by Norman Foster. It houses an incredible collection of Expressionist works, including pieces by Wassily Kandinsky, Franz Marc, and Paul Klee.

Expressionism thrived in Munich. This is literally the best collection of that period anywhere in the world.

If you’re a fan of sculpture, head to the Glyptotek Museum . The Glyptothek owes its existence, like so many other lovely things in Bavaria, to Mad King Ludwig II.

The king envisioned Munich as a “German Athens.” Each gallery houses works from different time periods. They illustrate the evolution of sculpture over the centuries.

>>> Click here to book a ticket to the Glyptothek

7. Hofgarten and the Englischer Garden

Located behind the Munich Residenz is an opulent Italian Renaissance garden you’d expect from royals, the Hofgarten. It’s a public garden and so is free to access.

The Diana Temple in the center is a 12 sided gazebo. It was used as a filming location for The Three Musketeers movie in 2011.

From the Hofgarten cross the street to the Haus der Kunst. It’s an art gallery and building that was an early example of Nazi architecture.

Right nearby, you’ll find wet-suit-clad river surfers in the Englischer Garden. They surf on a standing wave, the Eisbach Wave, no matter what the weather conditions are. It was in the 50s when I witnessed their stunts.

The English Garden is a truly massive park, bigger even than Central Park in New York City. You can’t really tour it fully in your 24 hours.

Here’s the abbreviated version. If you’re there in the summer, aside from the surfers, you’ll likely see nude sun bathers.

The Chinese Tower Beer Garden is a popular hangout in the garden. If you’d like a more local vibe, head to the nearby Seehaus Beer Garden .

If you want to end your quickie park visit with a sunset, climb Olyberg, a large hill that overlooks the park. it has a nice vantage point over the city. Alternatively, the Olympic Tower also has an epic view.

8. Dinner Time

Head back to the old town. You’ve got oodles of dining options.

If you want some traditional bavarian food, try Augustiner Klosterwirt, near the Frauenkirche, or Bratwurstherzl. If you must try Munich’s pork knuckle, stop in at Haxnbauer.

Munich is also known for its Italian food scene, a scene of which I wholly approve. On my last visit, on a Friday night, I had dinner at Limoni .

It’s located on a quieter street in a trendy neighborhood. And it was quite divine.

Another good Italian option is Guido al Duomo . You’ll need reservations at both.

9. Beer Gardens: the Classic Munich Experience

After your highbrow one day of art and culture in Munich ends, you should — like most good Germans — retreat to a beer hall. Munich’s beer halls are a cultural institution in their own right.

Munich’s most iconic beer garden is, of course, the Hofbrahaus . Serving beer since the early 1800s, it’s now mostly serving beer to tourists.

But it’s an iconic place, and was home to the likes of Mozart. It was also where Hitler gave his first speech to the Nazi party.

Waiters dressed in Lederhosen serve massive beer steins to hordes of people, while a band plays drinking songs.

If you want to get a little more off the beaten beer garden path, check out this list of alternatives.

If you’d like to book a food and beer tour in Munich, click  here .

Tips For A One Day In Munich Itinerary

1. how to get to munich.

Munich is one of the easiest cities in German to get to. It’s well connected. The international airport is the second busiest in Germany.

The S-Bahn connects the airport to the city center, with trains leaving every 10 minutes. The ride lasts about 40 minutes.

You can also grab a cab from the airport. Or, you can also book a private transfer to your hotel .

2. How To Get Around Munich

If you’re staying in the city center, you can walk to the main sites in Munich. If you’d like to book a 3 hour tour of Munich’s historic sites with a local expert , click here. 

You can also get around using the S-Bahn and the U-Bahn. Buy tickets at the station and validate them before you get on.

As I found out because I was staying off center, taxis are expensive. 

There are some other fun ways to get around Munich. You can take a  Segway tour , the  hop on hop off bus , or a  bike tour .

3. Where To Stay In Munich

Munich has some greet places to stay. With only one day in Munich, it makes sense to stay in the old town.

The Mandarin Oriental is a boutique property with an Eastern-influenced aesthetic. It’s in old town right next to the famous Hofbrauhaus beer hall.

The Louis Hotel is a design hotel in the historic old town. It has a nice rooftop terrace that overlooks the Victualienmarkt.

The Hotel Bayerisches Hof is in the Neo-Classical Montgelas Palace. The luxury hotel oozes sophistication and has a Michelin star restaurant for foodies.

Roomers Munich is a sleek boutique hotel with an Asian kitchen and secret watering hole called the Hidden Room. Another popular boutique hotel is BEYOND by Geisel . It has an amazing location on the Marienplatz.

4. More Than One Day In Munich?

If you have more than one day in Munich, you can follow my 4 days in Munich itinerary .

You might also consider some day trips from Munich. Some options are:

• a 10 hour guided day tour to historic Nuremberg
• a half day guided tour to Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial
• a full day tour to the beautiful Neuschwanstein Castle
• a full day tour to Berchtesgaden and Hitler’s Eagle’s Nest
• a full day tour to Salzburg Austria

I hope you’ve enjoyed my one day in Munich itinerary. You may enjoy these other travel guides and resources for Germany:

• 10 Days in Bavaria Germany
• Guide To Germany’s Romantic Road
• Guide To Neuschwanstein Castle
• Prettiest Towns in Germany
• Landmarks in Germany
• Tips For Visiting Germany
• Guide To Rothenburg ob der Tauber
• Guide To Fairytale Castles in Bavaria

If you want to spend one day in Munich Germany, pin it for later.

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Last Updated on June 29, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

40+ Munich Travel Tips for First Timers & Must Knows Before You Go

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Famed for Oktoberfest, giant pretzels & fun leather pants, the beautiful city of Munich, Germany is a picturesque wonderland that is (in my very biased opinion) one of the best cities to visit in Europe.

But it’s not all beer-fuelled frolics and comically carby treats. Navigating Munich for first-timers isn’t the easiest task, especially if you want to do the city justice and explore more than just the biggest tourist sights.

So, allow me to share all my best Munich must knows with you as someone who lived there for over five years.

In this post, I’ll be sharing all my best Munich tips to make sure you fall head over heels for this former home city of mine. Get ready – it’s a long one!

Save this list of Munich Travel Tips for later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

1. Steal my ready-made Munich itineraries

Before we dive into my detailed rabbit hole of Munich travel tips, I’d first like to scare you off with some prior fruits of my fangirly labour.

Over the years, I’ve entertained so many visitors and fielded so many Munich queries that I’ve already pre-assembled some itineraries for the city that I consider pretty perfect.

So, before you read on, save yourself some work and steal these itineraries for…

• Munich in one day
• Munich in two days
• Munich in three days

2. Understand Munich’s year-round offerings

Alright, now onto the real Munich tips!

First off, let’s tackle when to visit. While millions flock to Munich every year for Oktoberfest, there are really are solid reasons to visit year-round, like…

• November/December: Munich Christmas Markets
• February: Fasching
• March – April: Starkbierfest
• April – May: Frühlingsfest
• Summer: Beer garden season and small local folk festivals
• September – November: Oktoberfest , Fall Foliage, etc.

So, don’t limit yourself to just visiting for Oktoberfest – there are plenty of enticing incentives no matter the season.

NOTE: If I were to pick months to avoid though, they would probably be November and January, when the weather is iffy and there are fewer big events happenings.

2. Plan to spend more than just a day or two in Munich

In terms of how long to spend in Munich, I get wildly offended when people think you can complete the city in a day or two.

Sure, you can tackle most of the main sights in that time but I’d really advise four days minimum to properly cover the city and maybe do a day trip or two to some of the amazing spots nearby.

One of the best ways to enjoy Munich is relaxing in a beer hall/beer garden, gulping down a beer or five, and just generally soaking up the immaculate vibes of this liveable city.

So, don’t rush through Munich. Give yourself some extra time and I promise you’ll have a much better experience.

3. Learn the pros and cons of staying in different areas

Now, let’s chat about where to stay in Munich.

Generally, anything within the M-Zone (the white area in this map ) and near an U-Bahn station is convenient enough for most visitors. Munich is small and it doesn’t take too long to get anywhere.

If money is no object however, ideally you’ll want to stay within the Altstadt (Old Town), which puts you within walking distance of Munich’s major attractions. 

If you want to be a bit out of the tourist core, then some other potential neighbourhoods include…

• Lehel : Quiet and pretty, but pricey. This was my old neighbourhood and I loved being able to walk into town without dealing with the crowds of Altstadt.
• Glockenbachviertel: A very vibrant neighbourhood full of cool restaurants and bars, with easy transport links into the center of town.
• Haidhausen: Very pretty little neighbourhood with a village-like feel, and still well connected to the centre by public transport.

Lastly, there’s the area around Olympiapark which I love but honestly it’s not the closest to Munich’s main attractions so I wouldn’t necessarily recommend it for first time visitors.

NOTE: You’ll often find that hotels are cheaper near Munich’s main train stations, but just beware that these are generally less “pretty” areas of the city. If budget is a key priority though, they’re not bad, especially if you need to be in the area for catching a train or going to events like Oktoberfest for instance.

4. Don’t miss Munich Airport’s Brewery!

One of my favourite Munich fun facts is that it’s home to the world’s first airport brewery – Airbräu, located at Munich Franz Josef Strauss Airport (AKA Munich International Airport).

Besides the novelty of it being an airport brewery , unlike most airport options, the food and drink here is both delicious and reasonably priced (a 1L Maß of beer for only €5.90!!!)

So, if you have a later flight, then it’s definitely worth getting to the airport early for some pre-flight indulgence, or to grab a leisurely bite after your flight before heading into the city.

5. Beware of “Munich West” Airport

Now, while Munich Airport is an excellent airport and the most likely point of entry for most international visitors, another “local” airport to beware of is the one known as Memmingen Airport or Allgäu Airport, sometimes billing itself as “Munich West” when servicing budget carriers like Ryanair , Wizz Air or easyJet.

While this name is becoming increasingly less common (likely due to complaints), it’s important to note that “west” in this instance really does mean west… as in, 1.5 hours west from Munich’s city centre.

So, just keep that in mind if you’re booking flights and you see it pop up as an option. While it can often have very affordable flights, the trade-off is you need to hop on a paid shuttle for 1.5 hours before arriving into town.

6. Public transport is the best way to get around

In terms of getting around Munich, public transport is a convenient and cost-effective option, so there’s no need to buy a pricey hop on/hop off bus tour or rent a car.

With a reliable and punctual network of buses and trams, in addition to the U-Bahn (the underground metro system) and the S-Bahn (the suburban train system), Munich’s public transport will get you pretty much anywhere you need to go.

I have a full guide to Munich’s public transport that explains everything fully, but here’s a quick overview:

• Transport on Munich’s local network all use the same tickets so you can mix and match different modes of transport as needed
• There are no fare gates. Instead you’re expected to buy and validate your own ticket, then show it if a ticket controller comes on board
• Tickets can be purchased in-person at machines (press the UK flag to activate the English menu) OR more conveniently, you can download the MVG app which allows you to search routes and buy the correct tickets really easily

7. Remember to validate your ticket correctly

If you plan to use public transport during your Munich trip, one of THE most important must-knows is that you need to validate your ticket properly to avoid getting fined. Just having a ticket isn’t enough.

You can validate your tickets though machines that look like this:

Alternatively, if you use the MVG app, you can just buy/validate tickets right on your phone, and you’re much less likely to mess up.

8. Look into special tickets to save money

Another important Munich must-know is this: very rarely will buying a single one-way ticket be the best option.

There are tons of different ticket types and discounts that are suitable for visitors, so if you’re looking to save money, here are some public transport tickets to consider:

CityTourCard: This is a made-for-tourists offer that bundles unlimited public transport for set days with travel to/from the airport along with some discounts for paid attractions. Only really worth it if you plan to visit a lot of the included attractions/want peace of mind.

Stripe Tickets: This is often the best value for visitors who are using public transport sparingly. With a stripe ticket, you buy 10 stripes that you redeem as you go. The # of stripes you must redeem depends on how far you’re going, but most journeys within one zone are worth 2 stripes. Overall, this works out to be cheaper than buying single tickets every time.

Day Tickets: This allows you unlimited travel for the day, and is usually worth it if you plan to do three or more trips on public transport that day. You can even get a group day ticket that covers journeys for multiple people.

Short Trip Tickets: There’s also the short ticket so if you’re only going 2 stops or less on the Ubahn or 4 stops or less on the bus/tram, you can buy a short ticket which is much cheaper.

IsarCards: These are weekly/monthly passes that give you unlimited travel during the period of validity and may be worth it if you’re in Munich for a longer time.

9. Buy a Bayern Ticket (AKA Bavaria Ticket) for day trips

Besides local transport offers, there’s another epic discount for state-wide train travel that I must alert you to: the amazing Bayern Ticket (AKA Bavaria Ticket).

This ticket gives you unlimited travel on regional trains and public transport within Bavaria for one whole day, making it perfect for day trips… especially if you’re travelling with others, because the per person cost is cheaper for every additional person you add.

Best of all, it works on local public transport too! The amount of money I’ve saved using this ticket over the years is truly mind-boggling, so I hope you get good use out of it too!

10. Do at least one day trip during your visit

On that note, Munich is an amazing base for various day trips, so if time permits, I’d highly recommend venturing out of the city to see some of the amazing spots nearby.

Here are some popular ones that I’ve written day trip guides for:

• Neuschwantein Castle
• Kehlsteinhaus (Eagle’s Nest)

There are also many beautiful lakes close to Munich that I can recommend checking out:

• Starnberger See (Lake Starnberg)

11. Beware that there are several large train stations in Munich

When booking train travel, first-time visitors to Munich can often get confused by the different station names, SO beware that there are several large train stations in the city, and depending on where you’re staying, you may be closer to one over the other.

Here are the main stations to look out for:

• München Hauptbahnhof (HBF) – the Central Station 
• München Ostbahnhof – the East Station
• München Pasing

So, again, when booking tickets, be sure to identify which station is closest to your accommodation rather than going in/out of the main central station (Hauptbahnhof) every time.

12. You can bring your own food to beer gardens

If you’re looking for Munich money-saving tricks, here’s one for you.

Many first time visitors don’t know this, but when it comes to large self-service beer gardens (like the Chinese Tower for instance), you can actually bring and consume your own food, a right protected by law in the  Bayerische Biergartenverordnung (Bavarian Beer Garden Ordinance).

Under this ordinance, when you’re in a Bavarian Biergarten, so long as you buy a drink, you’re welcome to hang out and enjoy whatever snacks you smuggle in… within reason, meaning you’re not meant to bust out a BBQ and grill up a full hog roast, but bringing little nibbles like salads, dips, salads, sandwiches, etc. is all fair game.

Of course, this general rule only applies to self-service areas of large beer gardens, and not individual restaurants that may have patio space. When in doubt, look for places that are labelled “Biergarten” rather than “Wirtsgarten”.

If you see servers, table service, or table cloths, these are generally red flags that you’re not allowed to bring and consume your own food.

13. Most beer gardens are self-service

On the topic of beer gardens, you should know that beer gardens are mostly self service, so in most cases you’d walk in, grab your own beer, grab your own food, and then pay at the Kasse (or cashiers).

When in doubt, just observe what others seem to be doing.

14. Beware that you must often pay a deposit for glassware

When visiting beer gardens or Christmas markets, first-time visitors are often surprised that their total bill is more than they anticipated.

This is more often than not due to the Pfand (or deposit) that they charge on glasses, which is an additional charge that you get back when you return them.

PS: If you are given a special coin or token when buying your refreshments, be sure to hang onto them because they must be returned with your glassware to get your deposit back.

15. Familiarize yourself with Bavarian must-eats

Now let’s move onto one of my favourite topics… food !

Sadly, if I were to talk about all the best foods to try in Munich, this post would take you a decade to read, so for the sake of your attention span, I’ll be highlighting just my top choices below.

Schweinebraten or Schweinshaxe (Roast pork): Schweinshaxe is the more famous giant pork knuckle, but I personally prefer the Schweinebraten which is tender pork shoulder that usually comes with less skin. Whichever you choose, it has to be wolfed down with a potato dumpling (Knödel) and beer gravy.

Obatzda: A delicious Bavarian dip that’s available at most beer gardens and beer halls. Made up of soft cheese, butter and various seasonings, this creamy orangey mound of heaven is best enjoyed with a giant doughy pretzel.

Hendl (Roast chicken): A rather self-explanatory specialty, but an important one consisting of perfectly roasted chicken. This is the best meal after you’ve had a few beers.

Käsespätzle : Bouncy little noodles served with melted cheese and crispy onion. SO good, and one of the best vegetarian-friendly Bavarian foods to try in Munich.

Kaiserschmarrn: A torn pancake dessert topped with sugar and served with jam or apple sauce.

Dampfnudel: A steamed dumpling served in a pool of vanilla sauce.

Bavarian breakfast: Involves Weißwurst (white sausage) with sweet mustard, a pretzel and wheat beer. Don’t knock it until you’ve tried it !

16. Don’t forget to peel your Weißwurst

On that note, one of my most important Munich tips is to peel your Weißwurst and eat it properly. I shudder to think of all the poor souls who have fallen victim to this confusing trap over the years.

When it comes to Weißwurst, do not… I repeat DO NOT eat the skin.

Make an incision down the middle, peel it off, then dip the questionable-looking (but tasty) contents into a pool of sweet mustard. It’s honestly amazing, so long as you eat it properly.

17. Do NOT eat the gingerbread hearts

Speaking of silly Munich food mistakes to avoid: do not under any circumstance eat the adorable gingerbread heart cookies you see on display all over the city.

They are not meant to be eaten and are more decorative souvenirs than anything else. Bite into one and you may well break a tooth (or at least suffer with a mouthful of crumbly sadness). You’ve been warned.

18. Try beer from each of Munich’s ‘big six’ breweries

Now, let’s move onto my second favourite topic: beer!

Unsurprisingly, the beer in Munich is fantastic and you won’t regret trying it. Brewed according to a 500 year old purity law that dictates beer may only be made of water, hops, barley and yeast, the beer here is consistently and dangerously drinkable.

There are 6 main breweries in Munich that brew beer within city limits. These are the only ones allowed to be served at Oktoberfest, and are generally speaking the main ones served at restaurants and beer halls across the city.

Unlike bars or restaurants in North America, most places here only serve beer from one brewery, which makes choosing easy. You say if you want a Helles (a light beer), a Dunkel (a dark beer) or a Weißbier (wheat beer) and they’ll bring you what they have.

It is rare that you’ll be able to pick from multiple breweries when you order, unless you’re going for wheat beer or something different, so take note of which brewery that restaurant or beer hall serves when you walk in by looking for signs like these hanging from the outside:

Trying a beer from each of the Big Six is a fun goal to have in Munich, but my personal favourite (and kind of the locals’ go-to) is Augustiner. It’s rarely exported so be sure to try it while you can!

19. Try some classic Munich soft drinks too

If you’re not into beer, then don’t worry, wine and soft drinks are also common.

The go-to soft drink in Munich is either an Apfelschorle which is half apple juice half sparkling water or a Spezi which is half cola and half orange soda. Both are delicious.

Besides Apfelschorle (which is made with apple juice), there’s a whole wide world of Schorle options, which pair sparkling water with different juices to make a spritzer. If you’re looking for a refreshing non-alcoholic beverage to enjoy while exploring Munich, make sure to test a few Schorle – they’re the best!

20. Steal my Munich restaurant recommendations for tourists

Now I know many of you will be wanting specific food recommendations and restaurants for Munich, and I do have a full list of the best Munich restaurants for tourists here , but here are some quick recommendations broken down by cuisine:

• Bavarian: Augustiner Klosterwirt – a great Bavarian beer hall type place with speedy service and delicious food
• Italian: L’Osteria – giant pizzas for an affordable price, with many locations around the city
• Ice Cream: Der Verrückte Eismacher – a legendary ice cream spot with very unique flavours including Augustiner beer and a rotation of strange ones like Döner Kebab or Sauerkraut. Definitely worth a sample (don’t worry – their main flavours are good too!)

21. Take advantage of 1 euro museums on Sundays

One of my best money-saving tips for Munich is hands down the amazing fact that many of the city’s top museums offer 1 euro entry on Sundays.

So, if you time your visit for a Sunday, definitely take advantage of this. It’s such a cheap way to get some culture in, plus many of the museums are located close together so you can easily visit multiple in day. 

If you’re looking for museums to visit, Maxvorstadt is THE neighbourhood to run to, with several amazing museums to choose from.

Of course, go to the ones that align with your interests but my personal favourite art museum is the Pinakothek Moderne (which focuses on modern art) and if you are interested in history, you’ll also find the NS Documentation Center in this area, which details the rise and fall of the Nazi Party which of course saw its start right here in Munich.

22. Consider a pass from the Bavarian Palaces Administration

Now if you’re really into castles and palaces, it may be worth buying a pass from the Bavarian Palaces Administration.

This one pass includes admission to over 30 palaces and castles across Bavaria, including big names like Neuschwanstein Castle , the Munich Residenz, and Herrenchiemsee.

Their annual pass is only €50 which is honestly a bargain if you visit multiple palaces. For most visitors however, the 14 day pass (€35) might make more sense.

They also have a €31 pass that covers Neuschwanstein, Linderhof and Herrenchiemsee. 

23. (Maybe) Consider a Munich Card or Munich City Pass

In terms of other sightseeing cards, the two main ones within Munich are the Munich Card and the Munich City Pass.

Despite their confusing name similarity, the cards are actually quite different.

In summary, the Munich Card is a cheaper card you buy that gets you discounts on attractions, whereas the Munich City Pass is a pricier card that includes entry to a bunch of attractions for one set price.

Are these cards worth it? I personally don’t think so unless you are planning to visit many museums and attractions at full price. Given that so many of the included attractions are only 1 euro on Sundays, there are definitely more cost-effective ways to see them.

But hey, if your trip doesn’t coincide with a Sunday and you plan to do a lot of the paid attractions included, then it can save you some money. Just make sure you do the math first to ensure you actually save!

24. Don’t miss Munich’s best hidden gems

Beyond Munich’s big paid attractions, there are a number of cool ‘hidden gems’ that many first-time visitors miss. Some are of course more well known than others these days, but here are a few to have on your radar just in case.

Neues Rathaus: This is the most photographed building in Munich, but few people realize they actually do public tours which include a visit the AMAZING Law Library, which is hands down one of the most beautiful libraries in the world.

Justizpalast: Near Stachus, AKA Karlsplatz, there’s the Justizpalast which in my opinion is one of the prettiest interiors in Munich. It’s free to visit, you just need to pass an airport style security check and before long, you’re inside drooling over the magical interiors which look like this:

Asamkirche: This stunning little church near Sendlinger Tor is hardly a secret these days, but many visitors still pass by without taking a look inside, which is a huge shame because it looks like this:

St Michael’s Church: This beauty is often overlooked because it’s surrounded by so many shops like Sportchek or TK Maxx, but the inside is well worth a visit, especially if you’re morbidly curious and want to see the crypt inside which houses some of the most famous names in Bavarian royal history like King Ludwig II, the guy responsible for Bavaria’s most famous fairytale castles.

Olympiadorf: One of the most unique student accommodations in the world, featuring bungalows repurposed from Olympic athlete lodgings from the 1972 Olympics. The houses have since been re-painted by the students living there, making each individual place different. Biased side note: this was my first home in Munich and you can head to Bungalow L4 to admire my handiwork. Spoiler – it’s Lion King themed.

25. Explore Munich’s alternative side

I know that Munich and ‘alternative’ aren’t words that tend to go together, but there is a cool alternative side to Munich that most visitors miss.

So, if you want to discover some of it, here are some places to put on your radar:

• Werksviertel-Mitte: A cool area behind Ostbahnhof train station with lots of cool murals and unique small businesses housed in shipping containers.
• Bahnwärter Thiel: A hip hang out spot that hosts various parties and events, with different bars scattered across a large venue decorated with repurposed shipping containers and structures.
• MS Utting: Literally an old boat perched on a bridge that is now a hangout spot where you can get food and drink, plus they host fun events like a Christmas market every year.

Lastly, if you’re into street art, there are also big murals to admire all around the city, including around Hauptbahnhof, Giesing, Westend and in some tunnels along the Isar. Here’s a list of places to go street art hunting in Munich.

So, yeah… take that Berlin. We’ve got cool stuff too.

26. Enjoy Munich’s many amazing green spaces

One of the best things about Munich is its abundance of lush green space, so make sure you take advantage of it while you’re in town.

The English Garden is already well known as one of the top must-dos in the city, but there are many others scattered around the city with far fewer crowds and just as much beauty, like…

• Olympiapark: Not a hidden gem by any means, but a really cool park to visit with lots of modern structures and attractions
• Westpark: A pretty park on the west side of the city that’s home to a beautiful Japanese and Chinese Garden
• Nymphenburg Palace Park : A sprawling royal estate filled with unique attractions including a palace and botanical garden

27. Seek out alternative viewpoints

One of the most popular things to do in Munich is climbing up St Peter’s for a view over Marienplatz, but there are plenty of other nice views that don’t get nearly as much love.

Here are some I’d recommend:

• Neues Rathaus: A nice view over Marienplatz that has an ELEVATOR which means you don’t need to climb. My favourite lazy view in town!
• Frauenkirche: This view has only recently re-opened after 10 years of restorations. It’s an incredible panoramic view over the city that combines some steps with an elevator. Great if you want to see what it’s like inside one of the city’s most iconic structures!
• Olympiatower: Amazing views over the Olympic Park, accessible by elevator.
• Olympiaberg: A free alternative to the Olympiatower, with amazing views that’s especially nice at sunset.

28. Explore more beer halls than just Hofbräuhaus

And speaking of breaking away from the usual must-dos, another key Munich tip is that Hofbräuhaus isn’t the only fun beer hall in town.

In fact, every big brewery in Munich has their own beer hall (if not multiple) so don’t limit yourself to just visiting this one!

I’m a big fan of the Augustiner Stammhaus:

29. Don’t get your hopes up for the Glockenspiel

And to cap off my attraction-related Munich tips, I’m going to indulge in a bit of Glockenspiel slander.

Despite being advertised as one of the top things to do in Munich, the Glockenspiel performance in Marienplatz is honestly not that exciting so don’t get your hopes up too much.

NOTE: If you definitely want to see this performance but can’t be bothered to wait among the tourist mobs, one of the best places to watch it is from Café Glockenspiel if you can manage to get a table by the window.

30. Remember: Munich is in Bavaria

Alright, now onto some culture and etiquette tips for Munich.

The first is to remember that Munich is the capital of Bavaria, and locals (known as Bavarians) are very proud of this fact.

Given that Bavaria was its own kingdom up until 1871 when it joined the German Empire, the culture here is considered by many to be distinct from the rest of the country, so when asking questions or speaking about local customs, be sure to specify ‘Bavarian’ rather than German, as some locals can be picky about this fact!

31. Bavarians have their own language but you won’t encounter it much in Munich

Alongside its unique cultural customs, Bavarians do also have their own unique language: Bavarian (or Bayrisch).

But before you panic about learning it for your trip, do know that you won’t find many people speaking Bayrisch in Munich.

As a tourist, you may encounter it on a few signs and menus here and there (Minga for instance is ‘Munich’ in Bayrisch), but generally speaking you’ll get by fine with basic German and of course English.

Now, venture out into the countryside and that may be a different story…

32. Learn some language basics before your visit

Of course, when you come to Munich, a bit of effort should be made to learn some basics in terms of the local language.

While you’ll get by fine with English in most touristy establishments, being able to say hello or thank you is a must, so commit the following phrases to memory:

• Hello (for any time of day): Servus or Grüß gott
• Thank you: Danke or Danke schön

33. Don’t make fun of Lederhosen and Dirndls

Now, another important Munich etiquette tip is to not make fun of Lederhosen and Dirndls, otherwise known as Trachten (traditional clothing).

While the idea of leather pants may seem funny to you, these garments are actually Bavarian traditional dress, often worn for special occasions like weddings, church, and special festivals (as you may have seen at Oktoberfest).

So, remember: making fun of or wearing cheap versions of Trachten can be seen as rude or offensive to locals (though you’ll find the spectrum of caring is vast and varied).

34. Don’t take staring personally

Another important Munich tip: don’t be freaked out if people seem to be staring at you.

Culturally, Bavarians do not find it rude to stare at strangers. This is why they often won’t even look away when you stare right back at them.

This was a cultural quirk that I never adjusted to even after five years in the city, so let me warn you now: you will probably get stared at a lot in Munich.

Don’t let it ruin your trip though! Because they consider it no different than taking a glance to observe you, they do it to everyone, even each other.

35. Do not jaywalk in Munich

Another cultural must-know to be mindful of in Munich is that Bavarians do not jaywalk for the most part, especially around children.

Unlike other parts of the world where jaywalking generally goes unpunished, it actually is policed here, both by actual police (who will happily issue you a fine if they catch you) and also by locals who love to point out any wrongdoing.

So, remember, avoid jaywalking unless you enjoy getting scolded by Bavarian Omas.

36. Beware of bike lanes in Munich

Munich is one of the safest cities I’ve ever been to, but a key danger that many first time visitors forget about is cyclists aaand bike lanes.

There are bike lanes all over the city that are side by side with pedestrian lanes, making it all too easy to walk into one by accident.

So, be careful, take note of any cycle symbols on the sidewalk and make sure you don’t get mowed down by a bike.

37. Make sure to bring cash and coins wherever you go

As I mention in my Germany travel tips article, while many places do accept card payments these days, cash is still king in many instances, so having small bills and coins on you is a must, especially because you need to…

38. Prepare to pay for bathrooms everywhere

Sadly, you do need to pay for public bathrooms in Munich, even in ordinarily free places like train stations or McDonalds, so having coins for this purpose is handy. 

While some of the newer machines will take card, some of the older ones won’t, so having an emergency cash stash is a must.

NOTE: Besides paid toilets that have physical barriers, it’s also considered a norm to tip at many beer gardens and large beer halls, where there are bathroom attendants who keep the area clean. In these cases, it’s generally expected that you leave 50 cents or a euro as tip. 

39. Beware that most shops are closed on Sundays

Sundays are a special day in Munich where museums are 1 euro and all shops are….. closed !

Yup – Sundays are generally a day of rest in Germany, so if you need to go shopping or get groceries, do so on any day but Sunday. While restaurants and cafes will still be open, most shops and supermarkets won’t be.

In a pinch though, shops at train stations, gas stations and the airport will still be open.

40. Dress for the season, not the weather

Now in terms of what to pack for Munich, here’s a random tip for you: Bavarians tend to dress for the season, rather than the weather. So, even on a hot balmy day in October, locals will be wrapped up in jackets, so if you want to blend in, keep that difference in mind!

At the end of the day though, I say just wear whatever’s comfortable… but be prepared for some additional stares coming your way. I’ve noticed they’re often especially shocked by the sight of bare legs outside of summer time.

41. Keep an eye out for fun, local events

Lastly, remember that there is tons to do in Munich outside of the typical touristy musts.

After all, the city is home to millions of locals, and there are often fun pop-ups and local events to take advantage of.

The Bored in Munich events calendar is a perfect resource for this. They also do weekly event roundups!

I hope this list of Munich travel tips was helpful!

If you’re here after all those Munich travel tips, congrats – I’m beyond proud of you! Hopefully by now, you’ll feel much more prepared for your big Munich trip, but if you have any more questions, let me know in the comments.

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

1 thought on “40+ Munich Travel Tips for First Timers & Must Knows Before You Go”

This is such a fun and interesting post. You have shared your experience and passion for Munich with your post. You have introduced me to some of the coolest things to do and see in Munich, such as admiring the Frauenkirche and joining the Oktoberfest. Your photos and videos are awesome, they show how much you enjoyed Munich.

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Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Munich Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 31, 2023

Munich, the largest city in southern Germany and the capital of Bavaria, is famous for its annual beer festival, Oktoberfest. But there’s a lot more to visiting Munich than drinking steins of beer.

The city is host to a beautiful historic city center, an old castle, large parks and gardens, hearty German food, and beer halls galore. There is also Munich’s famous clock, a detailed history museum, and the famous English Garden. In short, the city has something for everyone.

While settlements in the area date back to the Bronze Age, Munich as we know it today traces its roots back to 1158. Over the centuries, the city grew into an important cultural and economic hub. After World War I, it was here where the Nazi party took root (their first concentration camp was nearby in Dachau). The city was heavily bombed during the war, though it was completely rebuilt in the post-war era following the same grid pattern.

Today, Munich is a place of beauty, art, and history. I love traveling there. The city has a lot to offer travelers and is also an incredible base for visiting other places in Bavaria. It may lack the youthful edge of Berlin but, to me, that’s a benefit!

This travel guide to Munich can help you plan your trip, get off the beaten path, and help you make the most of your visit!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Munich

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Munich

1. See Alte Pinakothek

This important art museum is home to over 800 works from 14th-18th century German masters. It features one of the world’s largest exhibits of Rubens’ paintings as well as works by Titian, Frans Hals, Altdorfer, Albrecht Dürer, and others. Admission is 7 EUR (1 EUR on Sundays).

2. Stroll the English Garden

With nearly 80 kilometers (50 miles) of trails, the English Garden is a massive park that offers numerous places to picnic, hike, and relax. Near the entrance is a river where people can “surf” as the water flows out under the bridge. There’s also a great beer garden in the center too with a Chinese tower (a wooden building resembling a pagoda).

3. Experience Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest is a two-week-long drinking festival that occurs at the end of September. Every year, an estimated 6 million people descend on the city to spend the time dressed in Bavarian clothes, drink huge liter-sized beers called Maß, and eat roasted chicken and massive pretzels. It’s a huge, huge party. Here’s an example .

4. Tour the Dachau Concentration Camp

Dachau was the site of Germany’s first Nazi concentration camp, opening in 1933. You can come and bear witness to this tragic episode in human history. There are over 30,000 documented deaths in the camp, though the number is likely much, much higher. It is a very sad place to visit but one that everyone should see. It’s located 16 kilometers (10 miles) outside the city and takes a full day to see. Entry is free.

5. Visit the Nymphenburg Palace

This Baroque palace was the summer residence of Bavaria’s royalty. It features a lavishly decorated interior, a breathtaking banquet hall, and is surrounded by extensive gardens. Two of its most famous features include the “Gallery of Beauties” and the former bedroom of King Ludwig II (1845-1886). It’s a nice place to wander around enormous gardens and the locals often picnic here.

Other Things to See and Do in Munich

1. visit the church of st peter.

Munich’s oldest parish church features art dating back six centuries, including ceiling frescoes and a giant gilded altar. You can also climb the 299 steps for lovely views of the city from the tower. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the Alps. Admission is 5 EUR.

2. Tour the BMW Museum & BMW Welt Munich

The BMW Museum is housed next to BMW’s head office in northern Munich. The company was founded in 1916 and the museum features exhibits about the history of BMW cars and motorcycles, with historic vehicles and prototypes, plus displays on alternative fuel and traffic management. It’s a bit out of the city but if you’re a car lover, I highly recommend a visit. Admission is 10 EUR.

3. Hang out at the Hofbräuhaus

The world’s most famous beer hall is one of Munich’s top attractions and a visit here is a must if you love beer. The Hofbräuhaus was built in 1607 and was originally used as a brewery, with the restaurant portion opening in 1828. Beer was produced here until 1896, at which point, the brewery outgrew its original home and beer production moved to a new, bigger site in the suburbs. While much of the beer hall was damaged or destroyed during World War II, reconstruction in 1958 restored the building in its original style. More than 100 active groups of regulars visit Hofbräuhaus, and the oldest regulars have held their table for 70 years. It’s the most popular beer hall during Octoberfest too and regularly hosts year-round events and live music.

4. Shop at the Viktualienmarkt

This food market in the middle of the city has been operating for over 200 years. With over 100 vendors, this popular local shopping spot is a great choice of fresh fruit and vegetables, cheese, and antipasti. It’s not very expensive either so stock up here if you are cooking for yourself. The market is open Monday-Saturday from 8am-8pm, though some stalls close earlier than the official closing time. Some stands are also closed on Mondays.

5. Visit the Deutsches Museum

One of the largest technical museums in the world, this museum is host to a huge array of exhibits focused on science and technology. For anyone interested in construction, engineering, aerospace, and the natural sciences, this is a great attraction. There are sailing ships, windmills, space probes, robots, lifeboats, submarines, interactive exhibits, and more! It’s a great place to visit if you’re traveling with kids. Admission is 15 EUR.

6. Partake in Maibaumaufstellung

The first of May is a public holiday in Germany, and every year, maypoles are erected all over the country amidst many festivities. May Day is especially important in Bavaria, with many traditions particular to the region. Small villages go head-to-head, attempting to steal the maypole of rival villages. If one is stolen, it must be “purchased” back with beer and food. Another Bavarian tradition involves a competition in which climbers try to scramble up a Maypole that’s been slicked down with soap. Whoever reaches the top gets the prize of pretzels and sausages hanging there. As the capital of Bavaria, Munich always has an interesting array of activities on this day, including plenty of music and dancing. A giant maypole depicting Munich’s traditions and culture is erected in Viktualienmarkt each year as well.

7. Shop at Kaufingerstrasse

This pedestrian-exclusive shopping area stretches for several blocks between Marienplatz and Karlsplatz. There is a mix of independent boutiques and large-scale department stores to peruse, as well as a slew of restaurants, bars, cafes, and beer gardens to enjoy. Wander down the side alleys for some interesting specialty shops and great people-watching.

8. Bayerische Staatsoper

This is one of the best opera companies in the world and as such, is considered one of the top attractions not just in Munich but all of Bavaria. The company was formed in the 1650s and performs today in the Neoclassical Munich National Theatre. The pieces put on here are primarily composed by Mozart, Wagner, and Strauss. Prices vary depending on the show, dates, and seats, with tickets ranging from 10-200 EUR.

If you want to save money and you don’t mind being less comfortable, you can purchase standing tickets in the upper levels for a hugely discounted price. There are often breaks so if you’d like to get the opera experience without blowing your budget try this option. Be sure to dress up as you’ll see everyone in Munich has put on their best clothes for the opera house.

9. Attend a “Blade Night”

Since 1999, every Monday from May to September is “Blade Night Munich,” which is basically code for a giant street party on rollerblades/roller skates. While these nights started informally, now they’re highly organized events with thousands of participants at each one. Over the course of 1.5-2 hours, the massive group skates together along various pre-determined routes ranging from 12-24 kilometers (7.5-14 miles). There are even “bladeguards” who help any skaters that need assistance. The routes vary each time to keep things interesting too. You can usually rent skate and protective gear for a few euros.

10. Visit Munich Residenz

From 1508 to 1918, the Munich Residenz was the seat of government and residence of the Bavarian dukes, electors, and kings. What started out as a 14th-century castle for the Wittelsbach monarchs has since been converted into a museum. The complex, like much of Munich, was significantly damaged in World War II but was restored in the 1980s. It is the largest city palace in Germany, with ten courtyards and 130 rooms, all offering something different to see. You can visit the opulent royal apartments, serene court chapel and gardens, grand halls, and gilded staterooms, as well as see the art collections from the Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo, and Neoclassic periods. Make sure you see the Italian Renaissance Grotto Courtyard and the Baroque Ancestral Gallery. Tickets for the Residence Museum and Treasury are 9 EUR each.

11. See the Glockenspiel

Munich’s town hall (the Neues Rathaus) in Marienplatz was completed in 1874 and is now the focal point of the city. Its main attraction is the Glockenspiel (a clock), which chimes each day at 11am, 12pm, and 5pm. 32 life-sized figurines tell 16th-century stories about Munich’s history, twirling around in a fun show each time the clock chimes (like a giant cuckoo clock). Shows last around 12-15 minutes depending on the story. The clock contains 43 bells and is solar-powered.

12. See the Asam Church

The Asam Church, built between 1733-1746, is named for its 18th-century designers, the Asam brothers (one was a sculptor and the other a painter). Its Late Baroque interior is extravagant and considered to be one of the best examples of this period. The stuccowork along the church’s naive as well as the colorful frescoes make for some fantastic photography. The church is quite small but the brothers made use of every inch of the interior, covering the confined space in allegorical statues and paintings. The exterior is magnificent as well, with a huge wooden door, multi-story windows, intricately carved reliefs, and golden, star-shaped ornaments. The brothers originally intended to keep the church for their own personal use, but heavy pushback forced them to open it to the public and it was inaugurated in 1746. Admission is free.

13. Bavarian National Museum

The Bavarian National Museum is one of the largest art museums in Germany and one of the most important decorative arts museums in all of Europe. Inaugurated by King Maximilian II in 1855, much of the collection comes from the Wittelsbach family, who ruled Bavaria for centuries. The 40+ rooms showcase items dating from Late Antiquity through the Art Nouveau period, including weapons, armor, porcelain, oil paintings, musical instruments, and more. Their Bollert Collection has an impressive collection of Late Gothic and Renaissance sculpture and the folklore department on the lowest floor hosts a collection of Alpine nativity scenes from the 18th-20th centuries. Admission is 7 EUR and 10 EUR for special exhibitions.

14. Take a Bavarian food tour

Munich Walk Tours offers several specialized tours of the city, with their Bavarian Food and Market Tour being the most delicious. Over the course of 2.5 hours, guides lead you through the historic district, making seven stops to sample and share the history behind Bavarian delicacies. The food you’ll get depends on the season but might include homemade sausages, cheese, pastries, fresh bread with spreads, and pretzels. Tickets are 35 EUR and include the food.

15. Day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle

This 19th-century Neo-Romantic palace is a must on any Germany travel itinerary. It was the model for the Disney castle and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Europe, with over 1.5 million visitors each year. Perched on a rugged hill in Bavaria near the town of Füssen, the palace was commissioned by “crazy” Ludwig II of Bavaria as a retreat and homage to Richard Wagner. Visitors can walk around outside and admire the stunning exterior for free, but the interior is only accessible by guided tour at specific times, which must be booked in advance. While the palace is 6,000 square meters (65,000 square feet) in size, only 14 of those rooms were ever finished. Interestingly, the majestic rooms were fitted with very modern technology for the time, including central heating, hot and cold running water, automatic flush toilets, and telephones. Admission is 17.50 EUR.

16. Day trip to Zugspitze

Many people don’t realize that just outside of Munich, Bavaria offers stunning mountains and glacial lakes, including Germany’s highest peak, Zugspitze. You can reach this incredible 2,962-meter-tall plateau by taking public transport to Garmisch-Parkinkirchen and getting the Zugspitzbahn train. This incredible scenic journey takes you via Grainau to reach Eibsee, a stunning turquoise Alpine lake. From here the cable car takes you up to the summit for a breathtaking 360° panoramic view at the Panorama 2962 restaurant. Tickets are 63 EUR return and are only available in summer.

17. Day trip to Tegernsee

An hour’s train ride outside of Munich lies the beautiful postcard-worthy Bavarian lakeside village of Tegernsee. The traditional Bavarian homes have colorful flowers cascading from the balconies and the lake itself is surrounded by lush mountains. Anywhere you sit you will have beautiful views of the water. If you’re a beer lover, try one of the local Tegernsee beers at the Herzogliches Schloss Tegernsee brewhouse.

18. Experience the Winter or Summer Tollwood Festival

The Tollwood Festival takes place twice a year during the December Christmas market season at Theresienwiese (where Oktoberfest is held) and in the summer at Munich’s Olympiapark. Unlike Oktoberfest and other local festivals that honor Bavarian tradition, this modern festival is a unique artistic mix of food from all over the world, live music, handmade eclectic crafts, and activities. The Christmas Tollwood is a giant Christmas market with both outdoor places to grab a glühwein (mulled wine) and tasty snacks as well as huge tents inside where you can warm yourself and admire the changing art themes and decorations every year. The summer Tollwood (held in June/July) has live bands and activities where you can enjoy the summer sun sitting outside enjoying Bavaria’s best beer.

19. Hang out like a local by the river Isar

Munich is not known for its cheap bars, so if you want to do what the locals do, pick up some food and beers at the Reichenbachbrücke Kiosk and enjoy the view down by the Isar river. There aren’t any tables or chairs, so bring something to sit on and people-watch at one of Munich’s most popular hangouts.

20. Day trip to Regensburg

Located about 1.5 hours away from Munich, Regensburg is a UNESCO-listed medieval town that’s recently become increasingly popular as a tourist destination. Major sites include St. Peter’s Cathedral, a Gothic cathedral with a treasury featuring relics and reliquaries; the 13th-century stone bridge which was once the only way to cross the Danube in this area; and Porta Praetoria, a Roman gate dating from 179 CE. Train tickets from Munich are 19-26 EUR one way.

  For more information on other cities in Germany, check out these guides:

• Berlin Travel Guide
• Cologne Travel Guide
• Frankfurt Travel Guide

Munich Travel Costs

Hostel prices – A bed in a 4-6-bed dorm costs 35-43 EUR per night, while a bed in an 8-12-bed dorm costs 18-22 EUR per night. You can usually find cheaper prices during the winter. Private double rooms cost 70-100 EUR. Free Wi-Fi is standard, and a few hostels also include free breakfast. Self-catering facilities are not too common in the city’s hostels, so if you need a kitchen for your stay be sure to double-check before you book.

Be aware that prices double or triple during Oktoberfest, so book several months ahead if you’re planning on visiting during this time.

The cheapest option during Oktoberfest is The Tent, which is basically one huge communal accommodation with cots but during Oktoberfest cheapest is usually around 50 EUR a person. If you can’t find anything cheap in Munich during that time, consider staying in one of the neighboring cities that are around one hour away, such as Nuremberg, Regensburg, Garmisch, Mittenwald, or Tegernsee. The last trains back to these towns are around 11pm-12am depending on location.

(Be sure to check this before heading into town for Oktoberfest so you don’t end up hanging out at the station until the first trains start around 5am.)

For those traveling with a tent, there are a handful of campgrounds outside the city. They offer basic facilities and prices range from 5-10 EUR per night for a basic plot for two without electricity.

Budget hotel prices – Budget hotels cost around 50-75 EUR per night for a double or twin room. Wi-Fi is generally included, and in many cases, free breakfast as well. If you plan on booking a hotel for Oktoberfest, book well in advance (as in several months ahead) as hotels sell out fast.

There are a lot of Airbnb listings in Munich (though they are more expensive than in other parts of Germany), with private rooms starting at 40 EUR per night. Entire homes/apartments begin at around 85 EUR per night. Prices double when not booked in advance, however, so book early no matter when you visit.

Food – Food in Germany is very cheap (and hearty). Meat is a staple of most meals, especially sausages; there are over 1,500 different kinds of sausages in Germany (sausages here are known as “wurst”). Stews are also a popular traditional choice, as are potato dumplings and sauerkraut. Breakfast is usually composed of bread, cold cuts, cheese, and boiled eggs or Bavaria’s favorite weisswurst and soft pretzels.

Munich is not the cheapest city when it comes to food, but it doesn’t have to break the bank if you’re smart about it. There’s a good variety of street food, from snack bars to food trucks, offering hot dogs, sausages, falafel, and kebab for around 3-6 EUR. A pastry is around 1-2 EUR, which can make a good cheap grab-and-go breakfast.

McDonald’s and other fast-food places cost around 8-10 EUR for a combo meal. Local fast-casual spots offer burgers for around 6-10 EUR and sandwiches for 4-7 EUR.

International eateries, like the many Turkish, Thai, or Vietnamese restaurants, offer affordable fare, with main dishes costing 6-9 EUR.

For German sit-down restaurants, you can generally eat for under 16-18 EUR (the beer halls provide the best value). A homemade sausage dish is around 10-12 while a larger dish such as wiener schnitzel or spätzle (German noodles) is 15-17 EUR. Traditional soups are 5-7 EUR while a huge Bavarian pretzel is 3-5 EUR. I really enjoy eating at the beer hall Augustiner Bräustuben.

For drinks, a pint of beer starts at 4 EUR, a glass of wine is around 4.50 EUR, and a soft drink is 3 EUR. A cappuccino is generally around 3.40 EUR.

Many restaurants also have a “Mittagsmenü” (special prices for lunch on a working day), where you usually pay about 7-12 EUR, choosing from select dishes. This is a great deal and usually quite hearty.

For higher-end dining, a three-course menu starts at 65 EUR per person and goes up from there.

If you plan on cooking for yourself, a week’s worth of groceries including basic items like pasta, rice, seasonal produce, and some meat costs between 50-55 EUR. To save money, go to grocery store chains like Aldi, Lidl, Netto, and Penny.

Munich Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget, expect to pay around 65 EUR per day. This covers staying in a hostel dorm, cooking all of your meals, using public transportation to get around, limiting your drinking, and sticking to free activities like free walking tours and enjoying the parks.

For a mid-range budget of 130 EUR per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb, eat out for most meals at cheap restaurants and food stalls, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities such as museum visits or a day trip.

On a “luxury” budget of 235 EUR or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, drink as much as you want, rent a car for day trips, eat out for all your meals, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Munich Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

There are plenty of ways to save money in Munich, especially if you skip some of the fancier hotels and more luxurious meals the city has to offer. Here are my tips on saving money in Munich:

• Visit museums on cheap and free days – On Sundays, many museums in Munich offer 1 EUR admission, including the Bavarian Museum, Alte Pinakothek, Pinakothek der Moderne, Museum Brandhorst, and Sammlung Schack, among others. The Haus der Kunst offers free admissions on the first Thursday of the month and the Villa Stuck offers free admission on the first Friday evening of the month. Visit Munich’s tourism website for a full list of museum offers.
• Get a Munich City Card or Pass If you don’t want to worry about visiting museums on specific days, get a Munich City Card or Pass. Both offer free unlimited rides on all forms of public transport, while the Card offers discounts on museums and the Pass offers free admission to all the main attractions. The Card starts at 13.90 for a 1-day pass, while the Pass is 47.90 for a 1-day pass.
• Eat cheap – The quick sausage stands and shawarma places offer a chance to eat for only 3-5 EUR. Food near the central train station is also inexpensive and quick.
• See a cheap movie – On Tuesday, it’s “Cinema-Day” and movie tickets are cheaper (the big cinema at Stachus only is only 7-10 EUR). Munich Opera and ballet tickets for people under 30 years old are only 10 EUR with proof of ID and go on sale at the end of each month for the next month if you can plan ahead.
• Cook your own meals – Eating at restaurants for every meal can really destroy your budget very quickly in Munich. Try and cook some of your meals to save yourself some cash. It’s not fancy, but it’s affordable!
• Avoid bars and beer gardens Beer gardens are fun but expensive. To save money, buy your drinks at the supermarkets and kiosks in Munich and sit outside if the weather is nice. Sit outside like the locals do and have a picnic. Head to English Garden, Isar River by Isartor, Frauenhoferstrasse, and Thalkirchen (by the Zoo).
• Embrace free walking tours – Free walking tours are a great way to explore the city on a budget while learning about its history and culture. Sandeman’s New Europe Munich tour is a good one to start with. Best of all, they are free! Just be sure to tip your guide at the end.
• Stay with a local – The best way to save money on accommodation is to stay with a local via Couchsurfing. Not only will you save a few bucks but you’ll get insider access to the city itself. This is the best way to discover all the hidden gems Munich has to offer!
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink as it comes from the foothills of the Bavarian Alps, so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Munich

Munich has plenty of fun and affordable hostels. Here are my suggested places to stay:

• Euro Youth Hostel
• Jaeger’s Munich
• The 4You Hostel Munich

How to Get Around Munich

Public transportation – Public transportation in Munich is fast, reliable, and safe. One ticket can be used on all the public transportation options: the U-Bahn (underground), S-Bahn (above ground, also goes outside of the city), tram, and buses.

A one-way fare is 3.70 EUR, while a short-trip ticket (valid for 1 hour) is 1.90 EUR. A one-day unlimited pass is 8.80 EUR, which is by far the best deal. You can also get a week-long pass for 18.60 EUR. If you’re in town for 3-4 days, this deal is cheaper than buying day passes.

If you have to switch from the tram to the subway in one journey, you can do so with a single ticket. Just keep in mind that the fare increases the more zones you travel through.

Bicycle – Munich is incredibly bike-friendly. In fact, it’s considered the cycling capital of Germany. You can rent bicycles starting around 16 EUR per day.

If you want more than just a rental, check out Fat Tire Tours . They offer insightful and fun bike tours all around the city. They’re perfect if you want to see a lot of sights and chat with an expert local guide.

Taxi – Taxis aren’t cheap in Munich, with some of the highest tariffs in Germany. The base rate is 5.50 EUR plus an additional 2.30 EUR per kilometer. I’d skip them if you can!

Ridesharing – Uber is available here, but it’s not any cheaper than taxis. In short, stick to public transportation if you’re on a budget.

Car rental – Car rentals can be found for as little as 40 EUR per day for a multi-day rental. You won’t need one to get around the city, though it would be helpful to have one if you plan on exploring Bavaria and doing some day trips. Renters need to be at least 21 years of age.

When to Go to Munich

Munich has so much happening year-round that it’s always a good time to visit. Spring is nice because flea markets are opening and there are several festivals that take place during this time (such as Wannda, an arts festival). However, the weather can sometimes be cold and rainy. Pack some layers and rain gear.

Summer tends to be the most popular time to visit. Temperatures are hot and everyone’s outdoors enjoying the sunshine. People flock to beer gardens or to the nearby lakes for some swimming. This is also the peak season when accommodation prices are much higher. During this time, temperatures are usually around 24°C (75°F) or higher.

Thanks to the famous Oktoberfest, autumn is also a very popular time to visit. From the end of September to early October, millions of people flock here from all over the world to enjoy the most epic beer-drinking festival in the world. The weather during this time is usually just as pleasant as in summer. If you’re planning on attending Oktoberfest, book your accommodations in advance. Way, way in advance. If you want to avoid the chaos, come in early September or late October.

Winter in Munich can be cold, with temperatures as low as -5°C (23°F), but Germany is known for its Christmas spirit and the markets in Munich are no exception. The weather is more unpredictable, and you should prepare for snowfall, but there are plenty of places around the city for sledding and skiing. Accommodation prices are a lot cheaper during this time.

How to Stay Safe in Munich

Munich is a safe city and violent attacks against travelers here are incredibly rare. As in any major city, theft and pickpocketing can still occur so always keep your valuables secure and out of sight (especially in busy tourist areas, at markets, and on crowded public transportation).

Solo female travelers here should generally feel safe, though the standard precautions apply (don’t leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.)

While scams here are rare, you can read about common travel scams to avoid if you’re concerned.

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Munich Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• Fat Tire Tours – For bike tours, use this company! They have fun, interactive tours led by expert local guides. You’ll get to see all the main sights without breaking the bank!
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

Munich Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written about travel in Europe to continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hotels in Copenhagen

The 6 Best Hotels in Florence

The 7 Best Hotels in Madrid

The 6 Best Hotels in Vienna

The Best Walking Tours in Barcelona

How to Be a Digital Nomad in Europe

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Planning a trip to Munich? Our travel guide contains up-to-date, personal information on everything from what to see , to when to visit , where to stay and what to eat !

Munich Travel Guide

• General Information
• What to see
• Getting there
• Getting around
• Where to stay
• Where to eat

With its lengthy and intense history, incredible architectural and cultural heritage, and beautiful natural landscapes , Munich is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Germany. The city, which is the capital of the federal state of Bavaria, is home to a perfect fusion of modernity and tradition .

Why visit Munich?

From a Medieval settlement to a regional capital with a proud artistic and cultural community, Munich's streets are packed with beautiful historic buildings dating back to the 12th century. It became a hotbed for extreme politics in the first half of the 20th century and was the location of the infamous Beer Hall Putsch, Hitler's failed coup d'état, in 1923. Suffering a huge amount of destruction during the Second World War, the city was rebuilt meticulously and experienced an amazing recovery . Today it's an important financial center with the strongest economy in Germany; is home to world-class museums and art galleries ; and hosts any number of cultural and sporting events ... why wouldn't you visit?!

Delve into the past on a tour of Munich under the Third Reich ; indulge in the city's most popular drink at the famous Hofbrauhaus  or go all out and visit during Oktoberfest ; embrace the Baroque at the  Nymphenburg Palace  or admire the high-tech cars at the BMW Welt . Whatever you want from a trip - be it history, architecture, art, music, technology, sports, food, or anything else - you're sure to find it in Munich!

Where to start?

If you're going to travel to Munich and you don't know much about the city yet, the first thing to do is to dive into its legendary history - understanding the past will help you understand the present. Next, check out our practical hints and tips on traveling to the city, before discovering which of its most important museums , monuments , and attractions pique your interest.

Looking for a place to stay?

Booking your accommodation in advance is the best way to get great discounts. Our detailed guide on where to stay in Munich will help you decide which neighborhood you'd like to look for hotels or apartments in, and our hotel search engine will find you the best deals!

top activities

Neuschwanstein Castle Tour Discover the stories, fables and legends hidden behind the walls of the Mad King's Palace on this tour to Neuschwanstein Castle from Munich .

Dachau Concentration Camp Day Trip Although visiting a concentration camp is perhaps not considered 'pleasurable', its historic importance is beyond doubt   an unmissable visit when in Munich.

Free Walking Tour of Munich Pass through Munich's many sights and   immerse yourself in German culture & history , discovering all the best points of the Bavarian capital.

Munich City Sightseeing Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour The Munich City Sightseeing bus tour makes stops at the main places of interest around the city. Enjoy the capital of Bavaria from a different perspective.

Salzburg Day Trip Birthplace of Mozart, Salzburg is one of Austria's most beautiful tourist destinations, as well as home to the Lake District and setting of "The Sound of Music"

Munich Walking Tour Discover Munich's history from the late medieval period to its infamous political past , and explore important locations on this Munich walking tour.

SEA LIFE® Ticket Enjoy a family day out and see the amazing marine animals which inhabit the world's oceans with this ticket for SEA LIFE® in Munich.

Third Reich + Dachau Concentration Camp Tour Step back in time and explore one of the darkest periods in German history this on Third Reich + Dachau Concentration Camp Tour .

Harburg Castle and Rothenburg Day Trip Visit both one of the oldest and largest castles in the south of Germany and the best preserved medieval city in all of Europe .

Berchtesgaden & Eagle's Nest Day Trip Leave Munich behind for the day and head into the Bavarian Alps to discover the dark history of Berchtesgaden and the Eagle's Nest .

Munich Private Guided Tour Embark on a private walking tour of Munich with an exclusive English-speaking guide to discover the best of the city with your friends and family.

Munich Hard Rock Cafe Step into a restaurant where you can enjoy authentic American delicacies in the heart of the Bavarian capital. Don't miss lunch or dinner at the Munich Hard Roc

Munich Bike Tour Discover the nature, culture and history of Munich on this bike tour . It's the most fun way to get to know and explore the city!

Munich City Pass The Munich City Pass is a tourist card that allows you to visit 30 attractions in the capital of Bavaria at an exceptional price, saving you money!

Big Bus: Munich Sightseeing Bus Would you like to tour the capital of Bavaria in comfort ? The best option is to do it on board the Munich Big Bus Sightseeing Bus .

Munich Third Reich Tour This guided visit through Adolf Hitler's Munich means you get to know the role justice, propaganda, art, and religion played in the beginnings of Nazi Germany.

Munich Christmas Markets Tour If you're travelling to Munich in December this year don't miss out on their world-famous Christmas markets for a traditional festive experience. 

Herrenchiemsee Palace Day Trip Enjoy a train and boat trip to the Bavarian Versailles with this Herrenchiemsee Palace Day Trip. Explore the impressive royal buildings on Chimesee Lake .

Nuremberg Day Trip Spend a day exploring Bavaria's second largest city. Learn Nuremberg's long, complex history and fall in love with the picturesque views from the Pegnitz River.

Cuvilliés Theatre Classical Music Concert Ticket Beethoven, Mozart, Vivaldi, Verdi... If you're in Munich, you definitely won't want to miss out on our Cuvilliés Theatre Classical Music Concert Ticket.

The Munich City Card offers you discounts of up to 70% off the city's main attractions. You can also opt for free use of public transport around the city!

Why is our Munich travel guide the best?

Introducing Munich is a  city guide written by travelers for travelers , and contains personalized advice to help you make the most of your trip to the city.

All the information in this guide is valid as of February 2023. If you find any errors or have any comments, please feel free to contact us.

Our travel guides

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3 Days in Munich, an Itinerary for First Time Visitors

Munich is an iconic city in Germany for many reasons. Not only is it filled with history, but is a city filled with stunning architecture, great culture, and delicious food. If you plan to spend 3 days in Munich this guide will help you to sort out your trip so you see a little bit of everything this city has to offer.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means that should you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission.

Table of Contents

How to spend 3 days in Munich things to do and see

Where to stay in Munich

Hotel Excelsior

The Hotel Excelsior is located in Ludwigsvorstadt and is situated near many iconic city spots. This modernly designed hotel incorporates many historical elements into it which adds a unique atmosphere. The hotel allows pets to stay and features a restaurant that has a special vaulted roof that is designed to make you feel as if you’re sitting in a German beer hall. There’s even a wine shop where you can visit and cooking classes you can sign up for. The rooms here each have their own unique flair like the Alpine Room and JS Classic and offer spacious bathrooms and helpful amenities like Wi-Fi.

Click here for more information and the latest prices.

Arthotel Munich

Located in Ludwigsvorstadt, the Arthotel Munich is situated near the Munich Central Station and features creative pop art pieces throughout it. The rooms here have soundproof walls, free Wi-Fi, and minibars. The hotel also has a restaurant that serves many mouthwatering dishes you can try. You can even spend some time wandering around the hotel looking at the art exhibitions it has scattered around it. Besides fantastic art, the hotel also offers a gym and bar you can use.

H+ Hotel München

The H+ Hotel Münchenis situated in the district of Ludwigsvorstadt and is designed with a modern style. The rooms here have Wi-Fi and many have spectacular views of the hotel’s courtyard. The rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi, safes, and spacious bathrooms. The hotel also features a restaurant that serves traditional Bavarian breakfast foods you can enjoy.

Hotel Torbräu

Located in Altstadt-Lehel, the Hotel Torbräu is a historic place to stay and its rooms have amazing views of the city. Besides a stunning city view, the rooms also have minibars, large bathrooms, and computers you can use. The hotel offers many other amenities you can enjoy like a bar, gym, and even allergy-free rooms you can stay in. You can also rent out bikes from the hotel to use to get around the city.

Rocco Forte, The Charles Hotel

The Rocco Forte, The Charles Hotel is a very elegant place to stay in. Situated in Maxvorstadt, the hotel overlooks the stunning Old Botanical Gardens and city. Its spacious soundproof rooms feature Wi-Fi and even bathrooms that are covered in a stylish limestone. Besides this, this hotel has a spa, indoor pool, bar, and lounge you can enjoy. You can also visit the hotel’s beautiful room The Library to enjoy a cup of afternoon tea while munching on fresh pastries.

How to get from and to Munich Airport

There are a few options for getting from Flughafen München (MUC) to the city centre: train, bus and taxi. It really depends on your budget, group size and personal preference as to which option you choose. It’s also always worth checking with if your hotel if they offer any transfers from the airport as that will save you the hassle of taking any public transport!

Taking the train is the quickest way to get from Munch Airport to the city centre, so unless you have lots of luggage or are travelling as a large group, this is probably the best option.

There are actually two S-Bahn trains that depart from Munich Airport for the city centre: S1 and S8. Both of these trains stop at the Marienplatz central station and, as between them they run six times an hour, you’re bound to be able to catch a train fairly easily when you arrive.

The S8 train offers the fastest route, taking only 38 minutes to reach central station. Tickets can be purchased from both the ticket counter and automated machines so you shouldn’t have any trouble organising the train when you arrive.

Please note: the first S-Bahn train of the day to/from the airport starts at 4.44am and the last runs at 1.44am.

Time: 38 minutes

Cost: 11.20 EUR

The best option by bus to/from the airport to the city centre is the Lufthansa Express Bus that runs every 15 minutes from Munich Central Station. The journey takes around 45 minutes and allows you to board and alight from both Terminals 1 and 2.

Tickets can be purchased online for 10.50 EUR or from the driver for 11 EUR. You can also save money by booking a return journey for just 17 EUR (18 from the driver).  There are concession prices for children.

Time: 45 minutes

Cost: From 10.50 EUR.

Regardless of whether you catch a regular taxi at the airport or take a pre-booked car, the cost from Munich Airport (MUC) to the centre of Munich should cost 70 EUR.

Please note this will cost more if you are flying into Memmingen Airport (FMM) – around 148 EUR.

Private Airport Transfer with Welcome Pick-Ups

Pre-booking a taxi with Welcome Pick-Ups is the easiest way to organise transport before you arrive into Munich Airport (MUC). Once you book your taxi with your arrival details, your driver will be waiting for you in the arrivals’ hall with a welcome sign ready to take you straight into the city centre.

The taxi with Welcome costs 70 EUR (the same price as a regular taxi) and takes around 45 minutes to reach the centre.

Click here for more information and to book your airport transfer.

3 Days in Munich: Day One

Deutsches museum.

This museum is one of the oldest and largest science/technology museums in the world. Built in 1903, the Deutsches Museum features hundreds of exhibitions and collections you can browse through, like Glass-Blowing, Marine Navigation, Mathematical Cabinet, and Oceanography.

They also offer many unique demonstrations throughout the day you can watch like learning more about the night sky in an interactive planetarium. One of the museum’s most popular demonstrations is a high-voltage one where museum staff stands inside a Faraday cage while intense and sparking voltages are emitted. Tickets are needed to enter the museum and can be bought in advance.

Museum Quarter

Also known as Kunstareal, the Museum Quarter is an amazing space where you can view different types of art all at once. The quarter is made up of 5 museums each of which focuses on a specific art period. The Alte Pinakothek holds art created from the 14-17th centuries and displays works by historic artists like Ruben. Neue Pinakothek is home to the Impressionist movement and showcases stunning paintings from Monet and Van Gogh.

Nearby is the Pinakothek der Moderne, a modern art museum featuring artwork done by iconic modern artists like Andy Warhol. There’s also the Glyptothek and State Collection of Antiquities which is home to ancient artwork and pieces like Greek and Roman sculptures. You can buy a combined ticket to get into all the museums at once or buy a separate ticket to visit the one that you’re most interested in.

Marienplatz

Marienplatz was created back in 1158 to be the central square of Munich and still serves as it today. Here you’ll find plenty of historic buildings that are designed with remarkable architecture like the Old City Hall and St. Peter’s Church which is one of the oldest churches in the city.

There are plenty of historical buildings you can view here. The Mariensäule is a large column that towers over the square and was created in 1638 as a way for the city to celebrate the end of the Swedish invasion. There’s also the Fischbrunnen which is one of the oldest fountains in Munich and is believed to have once been a spot where fishermen once stored the fish they caught.

Besides the architecture and buildings, there are also courtyards you can wander through, cafes you can visit, and unique events you can view, like the Glockenspiel that rings out from the New City Hall every day at 11 AM and 12 PM. If you’d like to get a panoramic view of the city, you can climb up to the top of St. Peter’s Church.

Church of Our Lady

This stunning church certainly stands out in the city thanks to its domed towers and numerous stained glass windows. Inside you’ll find art pieces you can gaze at while getting whiffs of fresh incense burning.

Church of Our Lady might be an architectural marvel, but it also is a very historic and mysterious place as well. Here you’ll find the tomb of Louis IV you can visit as well as learn from tour guides why it always seems to be so windy solely around this building in the city.

Eat at Hofbrauhaus

Hofbrauhaus is home to one of the oldest breweries in the world and serves incredible beers you can try. Inside the brewery, you can dine on traditional German dishes while listening to local musicians play. You can even try to read historic carvings on the tables you eat at – some of which were created back in the late 1800s.

Hofbrauhaus features many rooms and areas you can enjoy a beer or meal in, like Schwemmer which is originally where the beer was brewed in the building. There’s also the Biergarten which is located outside under towering chestnut trees. You can even dine in its Erkerzimmer room which is designed with an octagonal shape and features windows on its sides that look out to the city.

Besides its stunning rooms, you can enjoy many different types of beers, like the Hofbräu Original, Münchner Weisse, and Hofbräu Oktoberfestbier.

3 Days in Munich: Day Two

Englischer garten.

Englischer Garten is one of the largest parks in the world and has many beautiful gardens and places you can visit. For instance, you can visit its Japanese Tea House, the beautiful Schönfeld Meadow, or one of its many beer gardens scattered around the park. The Japanese Tea House often performs ceremonies that you can view and even take part in.

There are also plenty of trails you can hike down and cafes you can visit as well as special designated places you can nude sunbathe at. If you’re into surfing, you can even try it out on the park’s streams. This park also has a special platform, the Monopteros, which you can climb up to get beautiful views of the park and the city below.

Schloss Nymphenburg

Nymphenburg Palace is a stunning place to visit. Not only does it have large grounds that are covered in beautiful landscaping, but it showcases many unique pieces of artwork in it, like frescos of mythological creatures. There are even towering tapestries inside you can view which can give you a glimpse into what life what like back in the 1600-1800s for prominent German families.

Once you’re done touring the interior of this Baroque-styled palace you can wander around its grounds and see the small palaces built around it like the Brandenburg (filled with intricate baths) and the Amalienburg (a hunting lodge). You might even see some animals enjoying the vast landscape like geese and roebucks.

Olympiapark

Olympiapark is the former home of the 1972 Summer Olympics and the FC Bayern Munich. Today it serves as a concert venue and is a great place to enjoy the outdoors thanks to its numerous trails. You can even climb up its Olympic Tower which features a restaurant inside it that has an observation deck on the exterior you can stand on to get panoramic views of the city below.

If you are interested in the history of the Third Reich and WWII I totally recommend that you do this 3 our walking tour.  Click here for more information .

3 Days in Munich: Day Three

On your last day in Munich, you can do a day trip to the nearby Neuschwanstein Castle or the Dachau Concentration Camp.

Neuschwanstein Castle

As one of the most popular places to visit in Germany, Neuschwanstein Castle features not only stunning architecture but a rich history as well. Built in the 19th century to be the home of Ludwig II, the castle was meant to be a relaxing escape for him near the mysterious Black Forest. This magnificent castle has many towers and many of the room designs are inspired by the composer Richard Wagner’s musical works. You’ll also find many swan figurines and artwork scattered around the castle which was put in it by Ludwig II to show purity.

You can take tours through most of the castle, like the Throne Hall and Dining Room, but be aware that photography is sometimes restricted in certain parts. It’s also a good idea to buy tickets beforehand as this is a very popular spot to visit and it can become crowded very quickly.

Here are some great tour suggestions for you:

• Day Trip to Neuschwanstein and Linderhof Castles
• Neuschwanstein Castle Full-Day Tour

Dachau Concentration Camp

A trip to the Dachau Concentration Camp will allow you to learn more about the Holocaust and the horrific things prisoners here had to go through. There are many exhibitions you can view, like the “Path of the Prisoners”. This interactive exhibit takes you down paths throughout the camp that the people here had to take until they reached their fate of either liberation or death. Along the way, you can read posts that tell of the history of where you currently are standing and biographies of the people who once suffered here.

You can also view the prisoner baths and barracks and reflect at memorials scattered around the grounds. There are also guided tours you can take around this somber place to help you learn more about this horrific event in history.

Check here for more information on the half-day tour to the Dachau Concentration Camp.

From its adventurous and historical spots to visit its unique blend of hotels, the city of Munich is certainly a spot that should be on every traveler’s list. Even with just 3 days in Munich, you can visit the wide selection that this city has to offer with this itinerary and experience many things that will leave you completely amazed.

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Explore nearby places

• Unterfohring
• Unterhaching
• Untermeitingen
• Pullach im Isartal
• Taufkirchen
• Oberhaching
• Oberschleissheim
• Garching bei Munchen
• Kirchheim bei Munich
• Vaterstetten
• Unterschleissheim
• Strasslach-Dingharting
• Groebenzell

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• Map of Oberschleissheim
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• Map of Garching bei Munchen
• Map of Kirchheim bei Munich
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Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Munich?

Get inspired for your trip to Munich with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Munich Itinerary
• 2-Day Munich Itinerary
• 3-Day Munich Itinerary
• 4-Day Munich Itinerary
• 5-Day Munich Itinerary

Q&A about Munich

Weather in munich, add places from guides with 1 click, collaborate with friends in real time, import flight and hotel reservations, expense tracking and splitting, checklists for anything, get personalized suggestions.

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Munich tourist information

The tourist information office is the place to go for anyone who wants to explore the city of Munich easily and in comfort. We not only offer expert personalised advice, but also have many helpful leaflets, brochures and flyers to browse.

Whatever you want to see in Munich, our information materials and personalised advice are sure to help you get an in-depth insight into the city’s artistic, cultural and leisure offerings. So why not call in to see us on Marienplatz or at Hauptbahnhof train station? We look forward to answering any questions you may have about your stay in Munich.

Tourist information at Marienplatz

The Tourist Information on Marienplatz is open again. We are looking forward to your visit!

Tourist information at the main station

The tourist info of Munich Tourism is located one minute from the main station in Luisenstraße 1, close to the exit Arnulfstraße.

Our brochures

City map, tips for cycling in Munich and the current city guide of Munich Tourism: here you can find brochures and leaflets about the city of Munich for download.

Book now and simply discover Munich!

To explore Munich with its wide range of offers in a simple way, we introduce two new official visitor cards. All the benefits at a glance!

Our tips for your trip to Munich

Stopover, short trip, long weekend or a whole week: here are some ideas for your visit to Munich.

Frauenkirche: Visit of the South Tower

Book a visit to the observation deck of Munich's Frauenkirche and enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of the city.

Viktualienmarkt Tasting Tour

Discover the most delicious delicacies of the city and learn all kinds of interesting facts about Munich's most famous food market.

Discover the most delicious delicacies of the city and learn all kinds of interesting historical facts about Munich's most famous food market.

Justizpalast Tour

During the guided tour of the present-day seat of the Bavarian State Ministry of Justice, you will learn everything about the history and significance of the neo-baroque court and administrative building.

Romantic Road: Rothenburg and Harburg

Hop on and be whisked away by one of the world's most beautiful stretches of street: the Romantic Road to Rothenburg and Harburg.

New Town Hall Tour

Explore the Neue Rathaus on Marienplatz with an official City of Munich tour guide. A visit of the famous law library is also included!

Explore the Neue Rathaus on Marienplatz with an official tour guide. A visit of the famous law library is also included!

Magistrates, Monachia and magnificent celebrations: explore the Neue Rathaus on Marienplatz with an official City of Munich tour guide. A visit of the famous law library is also included!

Dream castles Neuschwanstein & Linderhof

Immerse yourself in the world of the fairytale king!

Visit of the Law Library: Juristische Bibliothek

Impressive architecture and unique ambience: discover the Law Library in the New Town Hall.

Pedicab tour through the old town and nature

Enjoy this special tour and pedicap ride past all the famous sights of Munich's old town and into the Englischer Garten.

Hofbräuhaus Tour

Discover the most famous beer hall in the world with an official guide of the city of Munich and enjoy a fresh Mass of beer afterward!

City trip incl. Munich Card and Tower Ascent

We look forward to seeing you again in Munich. Our tip: the exclusive travel package with Munich Card and Tower Ascent.

Old Town Tour

The city walk for everyone who wants to become acquainted with the most beautiful parts of Munich's city centre.

Spaten Brewery Tour

Experience a brewery tour at Spaten with a look behind the scenes, interesting facts about the company history and beer tasting in the brewery tower.

Hop-On Hop-Off Grand Circle 24h

The hop-on hop-off Grand Circle tour of Gray Line will let you collect unforgettable impressions of Munich.

Buy now vouchers for your visit in Munich. The ideal gift! Guided tours, guest cards and more...

Private guided tour through Munich's Old Town

Exclusive and safe: Discover the most beautiful sights and corners of Munich's city centre with your official personal guide.

Berchtesgaden area and Eagle's Nest

The day trip takes you along the Alpine Road to Berchtesgaden area with its dreamlike scenery.

Salzburg and the Lake District

Visit the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and relax on the journey to beautiful Lake Wolfgang.

Visit the birthplace of composer extraordinaire Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, stroll through the Baroque old town and then relax on the journey to beautiful Lake Wolfgang.

Oktoberfest Shop

Bring a piece of Oktoberfest home: Purchase official souvenirs such as the Wiesn poster or the Oktoberfest beer stein in the official Oktoberfest shop.

Dream castles Neuschwanstein & Linderhof VIP

As VIP in the footsteps of King Ludwig II. On this day tour in the luxurious long-distance coach of Gray Line Sightseeing you can visit both dream castles of the fairytale king.

A day tour in the luxurious long-distance coach of Gray Line Sightseeing.

Rental bike 1 day

With a rental bike, you can experience Munich at your own personal pace. Discover hidden alleys and charming districts off the beaten track.

Discovery trip incl. City Pass

2 nights in your selected hotel and - thanks to the City Pass - free admission to 45 museums, sights and attractions: our travel package for explorers.

Experience Munich at first hand

Exclusive guided tours for individual guests through Munich at a glance.

• Book excursions
• Book the Munich-Card
• Book guided tours

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An intro to mezcal, the centuries-old Mexican spirit that's having a moment

Tequila’s cousin has been made in Mexico for centuries — and, in its Oaxacan heartland, you can see it made the traditional way.

Agave, or maguey in the ancient Nahuatl language of the Aztecs, has been part of Mesoamerican culture for thousands of years. Throughout Mexican history, it’s been used as a source of food, clothing, medicine and, since the Spanish conquest in 1526, to make spirits such as tequila and mezcal.

The ancestor of tequila, mezcal — derived from the word mexicali , meaning ‘cooked agave’ in the ancient Nahuatl language — was born after the Spanish introduced distillation to Mexico. Today, most producers continue making mezcal using 16th-century methods: the heart of the plant is smoked underground for several days before being crushed by a millstone known as a tahona , usually drawn by a horse or ox. The pulp is then added to wooden vats for fermentation, followed by at least two distillations in copper or clay pots.

“The agave plant has been part of my family history since the 18th century, and my personal history since the moment I was born,” says Graciela Ángeles Carreño, a fourth-generation producer at artisanal mezcal brand Real Minero . “At Real Minero, we don’t just use agave varieties that grow on Oaxacan soil, we also use stills and clay pots that are made by hand, no more than an hour from here.”

These timeworn production methods combined with the Mexican terroir create a smooth, smoky and seriously punchy spirit, with 38% to 55% alcohol depending on the brand. “Good mezcal, like any good cheese or wine, should taste of where it comes from. It should also respect tradition,” says Graciela. “As for how to enjoy mezcal: always drink it neat, and in good company.” Traditionally, the spirit would be drunk from copitas (small cups) and often served with a slice of orange and sal de gusano , a mix of salt, chilli, and toasted and ground agave worms.

Unlike tequila, which can only be made from blue agave, mezcal can be made from any agave plant native to Mexico. Nine Mexican states can legally produce the spirit, but the largest producer in the country is Oaxaca. This southern Mexican state is home to hundreds of family-owned, artisanal distilleries and considered the heartland of mezcal. Here, mezcal-making traditions are deeply entwined with the lives of rural Oaxaqueños, and fiercely protected.

“We are constantly being told what mezcal should or could be by outsiders, but what people need to understand is that mezcal isn’t just a trend or something to be sold — it’s part of who we [Oaxacan mezcal producers] are,” says Graciela. “We make mezcal in clay pots and bury it underground not because it makes us more money (it doesn’t) or because it’s easy (it’s not), but because it’s how our fathers and grandfathers did it, and how we want our children to do it.”

You can try mezcal in almost every bar in Oaxaca City, the capital of Oaxaca state, but the best way to understand this storied tipple is to head out into the countryside to visit one of its palenques , like Real Minero, which offers guided palenque tours and mezcal tastings by reservation.

These rustic distilleries are nestled among fields of corn and neatly planted rows of agave, a rosette plant with spiny, blue-green leaves that can grow up to 2.5-metres high. In this part of rural Oaxaca, where smoke rises constantly from bubbling clay and copper pots, fourth and fifth-generation mezcaleros and mezcaleras still produce the spirit as their ancestors did 500 years ago.

Three Oaxaca mezcal distilleries to visit

1. Mezcal FaneKantsini

Part of a mezcal cooperative called Tres Colibri, FaneKantsini is headed by master mezcalera   Sosima Olivera Aguilar — part of a growing community of female producers fighting for gender equality in Oaxaca’s male-dominated mezcal industry.  

2. La Candelaria

Located in Santa Catarina Minas, La Candelaria is where Eduardo ‘Lalo’ Angeles produces his acclaimed Mezcal Lalocura, distilled exclusively in clay pots. Espadin, tepeztate and pechuga — the latter a type of mezcal that’s distilled with a raw chicken breast inside it — are usually available for tastings.

3. Gracias a Dios

Santiago Matatlán, dubbed the world capital of mezcal, is where you’ll find Gracias a Dios , a sustainability focused palenque that uses recycled bottles and corks, irrigates 60% of its fields using rainwater, and plants about 5,000 trees a year.

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• LIVING HISTORY
• CULTURAL TOURISM

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