munich travel spots

Munich   Travel Guide

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24 Essential Things to Do in Munich, Germany ( + Day Trips)

Munich may be famous for its beer gardens, beer halls and annual Oktoberfest, but these beer-fueled attractions aren’t the only reasons to plan a visit to this cosmopolitan city. Art and culture lovers will be satisfied with the city’s variety of

• All Things To Do

Marienplatz Marienplatz free

The Marienplatz square, accessible by a U-Bahn station of the same name, is considered the heart of Munich, and has been since the city was founded in 1158. In medieval times, it hosted markets and jousting tournaments. Today, busy Marienplatz is a must-visit for its two town halls, and is also a great spot to stop for coffee and watch the world go by. For Munich day trippers, it’s the perfect starting point for a tour of the city’s main central attractions, as well as the square’s surrounding pedestrianized area, home to foodie paradise, the Viktualienmarkt , and countless restaurants, cafes and shops. At Christmastime, Marienplatz fills with vendors selling festive food, mulled wine and holiday gifts at the popular Christkindlmarkt.

Recent travelers say spending some time in this city square is a must-do, noting the distinctly Bavarian feel. Past visitors also recommended timing your visit for the daily glockenspiel shows at the New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus) , which take place at 11 a.m. and noon. The square is free to visit 24/7, though individual businesses operate their own hours.

English Garden (Englischer Garten) English Garden (Englischer Garten) free

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you need a break from the crowds, hop on the U-Bahn to the Westpark to enjoy fewer tourists, more locals and in spring, some 20,000 roses. The Westpark is also home to Chinese and Japanese gardens and a Nepalese pagoda. – Christie Dietz

This large public park, which stretches from the city center to the northeastern city limits, is one of Munich's must-dos. Named for the informal English style of rolling hills and open landscaping, the Englischer Garten contains four popular beer gardens, jogging and biking paths, several kiosks for buying drinks and snacks, a boating lake, and monuments, including a Greek temple, a Japanese tea house and the Chinese Tower, or Chinesischer Turm. Head to the tower for one of the city’s largest beer gardens and several seasonal events throughout the year, such as a Christmas market and a traditional Bavarian dance event. One of the park’s biggest draws is the Eisbach wave (Eisbachwelle) at the garden entrance, a human-made standing wave that allows surfers to try their hand at river surfing almost all year.

Munich Residence (Residenz München) Munich Residence (Residenz München)

What originated in the late 1300s as a small, moated Gothic castle was transformed over the centuries by the Bavarian Wittelsbach dynasty to become the largest city palace in Germany. From 1508 to 1918, the Munich Residence (Residenz Munich) was the residence and seat of government of the Bavarian dukes, electors and kings. Today, it’s an impressive mix of Renaissance, Baroque, rococo and neoclassicism styles – and what many travelers describe as a must-see when visiting Munich.

Inside, you can explore more than 150 ornately decorated rooms filled with tapestries, paintings, sculptures, clocks and furniture. Highlights include King Ludwig I’s neoclassical royal apartment and the treasury, which comprises 10 halls displaying a magnificent collection of exhibits, such as crowns, goblets, swords, jewelry and tableware. The Court Church of All Saints (Allerheiligen-Hofkirche), the Rococo Cuvilliés Theater (Cuvilliés-Theater) and Hercules Hall (Herkulessaal) are today all used as performance venues. The palace is surrounded by the Court Garden (Hofgarden), a beautiful park filled with courtyards, fountains, statues, pavilions and water features.

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Nymphenburg Palace (Schloss Nymphenburg) Nymphenburg Palace (Schloss Nymphenburg)

U.S. News Insider Tip: Head to the palace late in the day to enjoy fewer crowds and a peaceful sunset in the beautiful gardens. – Christie Dietz

Located in the northwestern district of Neuhausen-Nymphenburg, Nymphenburg Palace (Schloss Nymphenburg) was built as a gift for the wife of Elector Ferdinand Maria, Henriette Adelaide of Savoy, on the birth of their long-awaited son. Designed by Italian architect Agostino Barelli, who also designed Munich’s Theatine Church (Theatinerkirche), the Baroque-style palace was completed in the 1670s. Over the centuries, it was extended and embellished with Rococo and Neoclassical elements.

Viktualienmarkt Viktualienmarkt free

The Viktualienmarkt, located off the Marienplatz U-Bahn and S-Bahn stops, began as a farmers market in 1807. Today, the 100 or so permanent stands offer everything from freshly baked bread to sausages and honey to fresh flowers. There are also several fountains featuring statues of local comedians, actors and singers, and a towering maypole decorated with emblems depicting various aspects of Munich life. You can also enjoy a locally brewed beer in the shade of the chestnut trees at the Viktualienmarkt beer garden.

Travelers say this market is perfect for an afternoon stroll, noting visitors should stop to buy and sample some of the goods available (especially the pretzels and white sausages), and finish their day with a cold drink at the beer garden.

Old Town (Altstadt) Old Town (Altstadt) free

Located in the heart of Munich, the city’s Old Town ( Altstadt ) is a hive of activity that’s as popular with tourists as it is with locals and packed with sights and attractions.

The Marienplatz is at the center of the Old Town, a former market square named, along with the victory column – St. Mary’s Column ( Mariensäule ) – in its center, after Bavarian’s patron saint, Mary. Travelers love both the sights and the atmosphere here and are impressed by the neo-Gothic New Town Hall ( Neues Rathaus ), famous for its glockenspiel and the location of both the Lord Mayor’s office and Tourist Information. During Advent, there are several Christmas markets in the Old Town, but the Christkindlmarkt at Marienplatz is the most traditional, dating back to the 14th century.

Asam Church (Asamkirche) Asam Church (Asamkirche) free

Munich is full of hidden gems, and the Asam Church (Asamkirche) is no exception. Nestled between stores and cafes on the city's popular shopping street Sendlinger Straße, this 18th-century church, which is officially called St.-Johann-Nepomuk-Kirche, is an unexpected masterpiece. 

Previous visitors said they were intrigued by the building's unique exterior while strolling by, so they decided to peek inside. What they found was a tiny church with enormous detail. 

Glockenspiel in the New City Hall (Rathaus-Glockenspiel) Glockenspiel in the New City Hall (Rathaus-Glockenspiel) free

In the tower of the New City Hall ( Neues Rathaus ) on Marienplatz is Munich’s world-famous glockenspiel. With its 43 bells and 32 life-size figures, the large solar-powered mechanical clock first sounded in 1908 and reenacts scenes from two famous 16th-century Munich stories twice a day; from March to October, there’s an additional reenactment at 5 p.m. The glockenspiel has a repertoire of 22 pieces of music, mostly folk songs, that are played on rotation, with four reserved especially for Advent. The only time the glockenspiel is silent is on Good Friday.

The first of its two scenes depicts a moment from a jousting tournament that took place on Marienplatz in 1568 during two weeks of celebrations held in honor of the wedding of the local Duke Wilhelm V to Renate of Lorraine: A Bavarian knight triumphs over his French opponent by thrusting him off his horse with his lance. The second scene illustrates the dance of Munich’s barrel makers ( Münchner Schäffler ), who are celebrating being allowed to venture out onto the streets again for the first time after a severe plague epidemic in 1517 and began dancing to entertain the city’s plague-ravaged residents. In a third performance every evening between March and October, a night watchman comes out to blow his horn and a guardian angel stretches a protective hand over the Munich Child ( Münchner Kindl) , the symbol on the city’s coat of arms.

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Pinakothek Museums Pinakothek Museums

Amongst the outstanding collection of museums in Munich’s art district – Kunstareal – are the three Pinakothek museums. All are within walking distance of one another and are part of the Bayerische Staatsgemäldesammlungen (Bavarian State Picture Collection), along with several other museums.

The Alte Pinakothek – translated as the “Old Picture Gallery” – is regarded by experts as one of Europe’s most significant art museums. With walls lined with works from Titian, Rembrandt and Rubens, the museum is home to one of the world’s largest collections of 14th- to 18th-century paintings. Visitors appreciated the incredible collection of masterpieces and the audio guide, which can be accessed via your smartphone – so remember to bring headphones!

Deutsches Museum Deutsches Museum

A science and technology museum like no other (according to travelers), the Deutsches Museum brims with exhibits on everything from robotics and aviation to bridges and musical instruments. Sprawling across more than 200,000 square feet of space, the museum reopened in 2022 after a yearslong renovation. Today, visitors have the opportunity to explore 19 new and redesigned exhibits. There’s also Kids’ Kingdom ( Kinderreich ), a section geared toward 3- to 8-year-olds that houses interactive exhibits, including a marble run, a hall of mirrors and a giant guitar that kids can crawl inside and actually play. Beyond the exhibits, the museum also boasts a rooftop restaurant and a gift shop.

There are also two other branches of the Deutsches Museum (accessible via additional admission fees). In the west of the city, the affiliated Center for Transportation ( Verkehrszentrum) offers three exhibition halls filled with transport-related exhibits, including vintage cars and locomotives. Meanwhile, Flugwerft Schleissheim is all about aviation, and it’s located about 13 miles north in Oberschleißheim.

Olympiapark Olympiapark free

Originally constructed for the 1972 Summer Olympics, Munich's Olympiapark is now a popular tourist attraction. It houses a massive recreation center complete with skating rinks, an indoor pool, mini golf courses, tennis courts and, of course, the 77,337-seat Olympic Stadium. The stadium hosts concerts and other large-ticketed events throughout the year, but many visitors come to the park to explore the plethora of activities in and around the stadium.

The park sprawls across more than 200 acres, meaning you likely won’t see it all during one visit. If you’re limited on time, opt for a 20-minute tram tour of the grounds for 7 euros (around $7.60). Some visitors preferred this comfortable sightseeing method, but others said they wished the tram tour passed more interesting sights. For a 360-degree view of the park, city and the nearby Alps, climb up the grassy mound known as Olympic Hill (Olympiaberg). It’s one of the highest elevations in the city and a popular picnic spot in the summer. During warm weather, you can also rent rowboats and pedal boats to take out onto the park’s lake.

Augustiner-Keller Augustiner-Keller free

Augustiner-Keller, one of few remaining traditional beer gardens left in the city center, is Munich’s oldest brewery, and the last remaining one that’s owned privately. It was first mentioned in 1812 on the Munich city map as a beer storage facility, and was acquired by the owner of the Augustiner brewery in 1862.

The beer garden took its current form in 1896 and has changed very little since. Today it has some 5,000 seats and is very popular in summer, in part thanks to the shade of its 100 or so chestnut trees. You can sample traditional Bavarian food here, such as sausages or roast pork, opt for lighter international dishes and salads, or if you want to cut costs, do as the locals do and bring a picnic. In winter, the historic brewery building has a network of cozy rooms and larger beer halls to drink and dine in.

Odeonsplatz Odeonsplatz free

Despite its location in the heart of Bavaria, Munich has been called "Italy's most northerly city" because of its architecture and laid-back atmosphere. Its Italian influence is most apparent in Odeonsplatz – a historic square near the city center designed by a king who had an affinity for the Mediterranean country.  

The Field Marshals' Hall (Feldherrnhalle) – a three-arch monument built in the 1840s – stands at the south end of the Odeonsplatz square and is almost identical to  Florence 's Loggia dei Lanzi. Deeply embedded in pre-World War II history, the monument is perhaps best known as the site of the 1923 Beer Hall Putsch, a failed coup by the Nazi Party following which Hitler was arrested. Nowadays, the Feldherrnhalle's steps provide an ideal spot for Munich residents and visitors to lounge. 

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St. Peter's Church (Peterskirche) St. Peter's Church (Peterskirche) free

St. Peter's Church  (Peterskirche) is Munich's oldest place of worship. Its stunning white and gold interior is filled with treasures, but its tower – fondly known as Old Peter (Alter Peter) by locals – is the real draw. Adorned with eight clocks and eight bells, the tower stands at nearly 200 feet tall. From its viewing platform, visitors are treated to 360-degree views of Munich, including City Hall (Rathaus) and the Frauenkirche (Church of Our Dear Lady) .

Recent travelers were impressed by the church's glittering altar, not to mention the gold, jewel-bedecked, glass-enclosed skeleton of St. Munditia, a revered Christian martyr. Reviewers also said the view at the top of the tower is a must-see and worth the effort.

Cathedral of Our Dear Lady (Frauenkirche) Cathedral of Our Dear Lady (Frauenkirche) free

Officially called the Cathedral Of Our Dear Lady (Zu Unserer Lieben Frau) , this Munich landmark is also known locally as Munich Cathedral (Münchner Dom) and the Frauenkirche. The Gothic-period cathedral is a unique part of the city skyline, thanks to its two dome-topped towers. The dual towers stand at around 323 feet, though one is slightly higher than the other – and no one knows why! Thanks to a law passed in 2004, no buildings within Munich’s city limits are allowed to be constructed taller than the towers.

The main part of the church and two towers were constructed in the late 1400s, built with red bricks in order to save money as there were no local stone quarries. The domed tower roofs were added in 1525. The cathedral was severely damaged by bombing during World War II, and although the initial restoration was simpler than the original design, more ornate embellishments were added later.

Neuschwanstein Castle (Schloss Neuschwanstein) Neuschwanstein Castle (Schloss Neuschwanstein)

Neuschwanstein Castle ( Schloss Neuschwanstein ) famously served as the inspiration for Disneyland’s Sleeping Beauty Castle. Built on a rock ledge over the Pöllat Gorge on the site of two smaller castles, the medieval-style Neuschwanstein Castle was commissioned by King Ludwig II in 1868. Today, it’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in Europe, and just a two-hour train ride south of Munich.

Even if you’re not interested in touring the inside of the castle, travelers say it’s still worth the trip for the views of the exterior and surrounding area. You can admire the photogenic setting on one of the many wooded trails, or from Marienbrücke, a bridge suspended over a waterfall that offers spectacular photo-ops of the castle and Bavarian Alps.

Bavarian National Museum (Bayerisches Nationalmuseum) Bavarian National Museum (Bayerisches Nationalmuseum)

The Bavarian National Museum ( Bayerisches Nationalmuseum ) is one of Germany’s largest museums and one of Europe’s largest art and cultural history museums.

Founded in 1855 by King Maximilian II, it was dedicated to the history of the Wittelsbach dynasty and the culture and history of the people they ruled. The museum was originally situated between what is today Karlsplatz and Marienplatz , but its collection quickly outgrew its space. In 1900, the museum was moved to a historic building complex on Prinzregentenstraße, close to the River Isar. Much of the museum required reconstruction following severe damage during World War II.

The Hirschgarten The Hirschgarten free

Located in the Nymphenburg district in Munich’s west, the approximately 100-acre Hirschgarten park was created in 1780 by Elector Carl Theodor as a hunting ground for the nobility. Though it’s no longer used for hunting, the park does shelter a wild animal enclosure, which is home to fallow deer and wild sheep that visitors can feed (just pay attention to the signage listing what the animals are allowed to eat). The Hirschgarten park also houses several playgrounds, including a water playground for hot summer days, a small skate park, barbeque areas and various walking trails.

The Königlicher Hirschgarten restaurant and beer garden , which dates back to 1791, is also situated in the park. With seating for more than 8,000 people, it’s the largest traditional beer garden in the world. Stop by for some hearty fare, such as white sausages with sweet mustard, käsepätzle (egg noodles with cheese and onions), or a large platter of bread, cold cuts and cheeses. Recent travelers say the beer garden has a great ambiance, excellent service and a fantastic location, and that the park is a peaceful place to escape the packed downtown area.

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St. Michael's Church (Michaelskirche) St. Michael's Church (Michaelskirche) free

Situated in Munich’s pedestrian zone halfway between Karlsplatz and Marienplatz, St. Michael’s Church (Michaelskirche) is considered to be the first Renaissance church built north of the Alps. According to past travelers, it is a must-see in Munich.

The Jesuit church was built in two stages. Commissioned by Duke Herzog Wilhelm V and modeled on the Jesuits’ mother church in Rome, its foundation stone was laid in 1583, but a vaulting system was used that turned out to be unstable and in 1590, the church’s tower collapsed and destroyed the choir, which had just been completed. In a second stage of construction, the plans for the (now towerless) church were expanded to incorporate a new choir and transept, resulting in the impressively proportioned building that still stands today.

Cuvilliés Theatre (Cuvilliés-Theater) Cuvilliés Theatre (Cuvilliés-Theater)

Named after its Belgian-born architect François de Cuvilliés, the plush Cuvilliés Theatre ( Cuvilliés-Theater ), originally called the Residence Theatre ( Residenztheater ), was built in rococo style in the mid-18th century as a theater for Elector Maximilian Joseph III and used for grand opera performances for members of the royal court.

The building was destroyed toward the end of World War II, and the theater was rebuilt in one of the wings of the Munich Residence (Residenz München) . The theater’s ornately carved wooden box paneling had been dismantled and security stored during the war and could be reused in its meticulous reconstruction and decoration in magnificent red and gold. It reopened under its new name, the Cuvilliés Theatre, in 1958. It’s also known as the Old Residence Theatre ( Altes Residenztheater ) to distinguish it from the New Residence Theatre ( Neues Residenztheater ), which was built on the Cuvilliés Theater’s original site.

NS-Dokumentationszentrum NS-Dokumentationszentrum free

The Munich Documentation Center for the History of National Socialism (NS-Dokumentationszentrum), abbreviated to “nsdoku,” explores the history of National Socialism and the longstanding effects of the Nazi dictatorship.

The museum is located on Königsplatz on the site of the Brown House ( Braunes Haus) , the former headquarters of the National Socialist German Workers’ Party – the Nazi Party – which was almost destroyed by Allied bombing in 1945. More than any other city, Munich is most closely associated with the rise of National Socialism, and between 1933 and 1945, the area surrounding the nsdoku became a primary location for the Nazi Party and home to many of its administrative offices.

Munich Court Garden (Hofgarten) Munich Court Garden (Hofgarten) free

Bordered by the Munich Residence (Residenz München) , the Bavarian State Chancellery ( Bayerische Staatskanzlei ) and Odeonsplatz , the Munich Court Garden ( Hofgarten ) is an enjoyable place to stroll around as part of a visit to the palace, but with its plentiful benches, also makes a great spot to take a break from sightseeing and shopping.

Plans for the garden date back to 1613, when various new buildings and extensions of the palace were being constructed. It was designed in the style of formal Italian Renaissance gardens, but was redesigned several times according to changing fashions, and needed rebuilding after it was destroyed during World War II.

Bavarian State Opera House (Bayerische Staatsoper) Bavarian State Opera House (Bayerische Staatsoper)

U.S. News Insider Tip: If your Munich visit coincides with the opera’s annual summer festival and you’d like to attend a free live broadcast from the National Theatre/open-air concert at Max-Joseph-Platz, do as the locals and bring a picnic and something to sit on. – Christie Dietz

The Bavarian State Opera (Bayerische Staatsoper) is one of the world’s most acclaimed opera houses. Its history goes back some 350 years and today, it has its own orchestra, the Bavarian State Opera (Bayerische Staatsorchester), and ballet company, the Bavarian State Ballet (Bayerische Staatsballett).

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BMW World (BMW Welt) and the BMW Museum BMW World (BMW Welt) and the BMW Museum

On the east side of the Olympiapark , situated a few minutes’ walk from each other in a complex shared with BMW’s corporate headquarters and main plant, the BMW Museum and BMW Welt (which translates as “BMW World”) are dedicated to one of Germany’s most famous exports.

Housed in a strikingly modern building, the BMW Museum documents the brand’s 100-year history through temporary and permanent exhibitions that feature collections of cars, motorcycles and engines, as well as displays highlighting BMW’s technological advances and achievements from its inception to today. Directly opposite, the futuristic-looking BMW Welt is home to the newest BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce vehicles, as well as exhibitions showcasing BMW’s latest innovations. Many travelers said it the site was worth visiting, if not for the cars then for the building's contemporary architecture.

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Home » Europe » Germany » Munich

15 BEST Places to Visit in Munich (2024)

The capital of German Bavaria, Munich is a lively city with a modern and forward-thinking attitude combined with a historic appearance. It is known for its splendid architecture, especially the charming Old Town that has been reconstructed to appear almost exactly as it did at the end of the nineteenth century. It is also one of the most cultural cities in all of Germany and hosts the yearly Oktoberfest beer festival, which draws large crowds from all over the world. There are definitely plenty of reasons to travel to Munich.

Munich is a large and sprawling city. As Germany’s third-biggest city, it can take a long time to figure out your Munich itinerary—there is simply so much to see and do and the distances are large.

There’s no need to lose tons of time planning your trip, though. We’ve created this awesome list of the best places to visit in Munich to help you out. Your travel planning will be a breeze and you won’t need to miss any of the hotspots in Munich, even if time is limited.

Warning: some of the best places in Munich are certain to surprise you!

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Munich:

These are the best places to visit in munich, faq on the best places to visit in munich, more awesome best places to visit in munich.

Schwabing is one of the most eclectic and coolest places to stay in Munich. It is Munich’s artistic quarter as well as its wealthiest and most desirable district. This contrast is what makes Schwabing quite unique.

• Enjoy pints in the sun at Aumeister, one of Munich’s best beer gardens that’s located at the north end of Englischer Garden.
• Pack a picnic and enjoy an afternoon on the lawns of the stunning Englischer Garten.
• Rent a bike and cruise along the trails that weave throughout this gorgeous neighbourhood.

We’ve got one more travel tip for you before we start: make sure to figure out where you want to stay in Munich . Choosing the area wisely will guarantee a great trip! A bit of research is essential. Now let’s get to it…

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#1 – Marienplatz – A great place to see in Munich if you love architecture

• Historic area
• Olde-worlde vibe and appearance
• Gorgeous architecture
• See one of the quirkiest attractions in Munich

Why it’s awesome: Located in the Old Town, or Altstadt, one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Munich, Marienplatz was a market in the late 1150s. The whole Old Town area is a historical monument on the Bavarian historical monument list. While lots of the historic buildings were destroyed during World War Two, the area has been rebuilt in keeping with its former appearance.

Fairytale-like buildings line the medieval-style streets and it is home to many of the most famous places in Munich. The appearance is very different to many other cities around Germany and visitors can spend several hours simply wandering around and admiring the pretty sights. Marienplatz is definitely an Old Town highlight.

What to do there: Stand in Marienplatz and marvel at the stunning and impressive Neues Rathaus (New City Hall). The Munich must see is a neo-Gothic treasure and you can take the elevator up the tower for splendid city views. Don’t miss watching the delightful Glockenspiel in action with its charming dancing and jousting figures. See the Altes Rathaus (the Old Town Hall) at the other side of the elegant square and gaze up at the Mariensäule column, dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

In the heart of the square, you can admire the handsome Fischbrunnen, which is surrounded by old bronze figures. Afterwards, discover the many gems of the Old Town, noting the remains of the old city walls and three of the original city gates: Karlstor, Isartor, and Sendlinger Tor. If you visit in December, you’ll definitely want to add this stop to your Munich itinerary , and you can browse in the jolly Christmas Market that breathes even more life into the picturesque square.

#2 – Englischer Garten – A beautiful outdoor place to visit in Munich

• Expansive public park
• Dazzling lake
• Interesting structures
• Various leisure and relation options

Why it’s awesome: A huge public park in the heart of the city, the Englischer Garten is a gorgeous spot to enjoy time outdoors when visiting Munich. Created in the late 1780s, it is spread across 910 acres (370 hectares) and is one of the biggest urban parks in the world. It features sweeping lawns, tree-shaded pathways, a lake, meadowlands, and various structures and statues. It’s a top place to visit in Munich with kids and can also be a great place for a romantic afternoon. There’s no admission fee.

What to do there: Get away from the crowded city streets and spend a few hours exploring the Englischer Garten. Sunbathe on the grass, sit on a bench, stroll around the lake, go boating on the water, walk along wooded pathways, and wander through the wildlife-rich meadows. If you want an all-over tan check out the Schönfeldwiese; the grassy field is known for nude sunbathers. Have a go at one of the most surprising activities in the park—surfing on the Eisbach River!

See the 18th-century Chinese Tower, visit the 1838 Greek-style temple, and relax in the Japanese tea house. If you fancy something a bit stronger there are also several beer gardens throughout the park and you’ll also find a number of restaurants where you can keep hunger at bay.

With a Munich City Pass , you can experience the best of Munich at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

#3 – Au-Haidhausen – A great place to visit in Munich at night

• Wide choice of places to eat
• Diverse bars
• Exciting nightclubs
• Interesting buildings

Why it’s awesome: Au-Haidhausen is one of the most famous nightlife neighbourhoods in Munich. Once an area of cheap accommodations for tradespeople, the riverside area also featured a number of breweries. Over the years many bars and clubs have sprung up, and there are cute side streets where a strong sense of history still prevails. It’s a multicultural area with a youthful vibe.

What to do there: Take a walk through the narrow lanes and admire the charming buildings and visit the French Quarter with its lovely buildings and streets named after places where battles occurred during the German-French War. Get dressed up and head to Au-Haidhausen in the evening for a fun night of partying. You can start your night with a tasty meal in one of the many restaurants before hopping between energetic bars. End your night dancing in one of the numerous discos and nightclubs.

#4 – Volkssternwarte München – An unknown (but awesome!) place to see in Munich!

• Lesser-visited attraction
• Historic planetarium
• Fascinating displays
• Gaze at the skies

Why it’s awesome: Volkssternwarte München is among the cool but unknown attractions in Munich . Hidden away, the lesser-visited observatory and planetarium see few visitors—meaning that those who do visit can enjoy an unhurried air. It’s an especially great place for fans of astronomy when visiting Munich. Demonstrations are conducted in German on most days, though English talks are held too on certain days of the week. There are several large telescopes from throughout the ages as well as exhibits and displays related to the skies.

What to do there: Discover the fascinating meteor collection and be awed by the astronomical photos on display and see the impressive collection of telescopes, some of which are several decades old. Join a daily tour and cast your gaze skywards as you peer through telescopes to study the stars and planets. The planetarium is old school, operated manually and built in the 1950s. The equipment offers terrific views of the skies and you can observe planets, the Milky Way, and more, with day and night views available.

#5 – Frauenkirche – One of the most religious places to see in Munich

• Symbol of Munich
• Eye-catching building
• Religious air
• Amazing views

Why it’s awesome: One of the major points of interest in Munich, the huge Frauenkirche is a striking symbol on the city skyline. The red-brick Gothic beauty dates back to the 15th century, standing on the site of an older, and smaller, church. The soaring dome-topped towers can be seen from far and wide, towering over the landscapes at almost 100 metres (325 feet) tall.

Although fairly simple in its exterior design, the church is still statuesque and impressive. The insides are also quite remarkable and it houses the tombs of several eminent people from the city’s past. There are also some unusual features. It remains an active place of worship today.

What to do there: Admire the building from the outside before entering through the large doors to be wowed by the size of the hall, complete with splendid pillars and elegant arches. There are many religious statues and carvings to see too, including wooden busts of saints, apostles, and prophets and a huge statue of St Christopher.

Pay your respects in the small chapels, gaze upon the beautiful stained glass window behind the altar, and see the bronze reliefs of Mother Theresa, Kaspar Stanggassinger (a revered German priest), and Rupert Mayer (a German priest known for his opposition against the Nazis). Climb to the top of one of the towers for soaring city views. Don’t miss seeing the footprint embedded in a tile, now known as the Devil’s Footstep.

#6 – Olympiapark – A perfect place to visit in Munich if you are on a budget!

• Sporting history
• Great views
• Observation tower
• Free summer concerts

Why it’s awesome: Olympiapark is among the most famous landmarks in Munich and is a popular place for locals and tourists alike to visit and hangout. There’s no fee to enjoy the park either, making it a great choice for budget travellers who want to enjoy being outdoors and mingle with locals. Built for the Summer Olympics in 1972, it was put to good use after the world-famous sporting event and is used today for various social, cultural, sporting, and leisure activities.

What to do there: See the buildings that were used for the Olympic Games, including the main stadium, Olympic Hall, and small hall. There are various sporting facilities throughout the site (additional fees apply), including a swimming pool and an ice rink. One of the most popular things to do in the Olympic Area is to go up the Olympiaturm. Standing at 290 metres (951 feet) tall, there are two viewing platforms from where you can enjoy splendid vistas.

There’s also a revolving restaurant if you wish to stay for longer and soak up the views over a meal. Alternatively, climb the hill in the park for more sweeping views. In the summer there are often free concerts on top of the hill too. Relax alongside the sparkling lake and enjoy nature and fresh air.

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#7 – Deutsches Museum – A fascinating educational place to visit in Munich

• Fascinating science and technology museum
• Many exhibits
• Great for people of all ages
• Learn lots of fun things

Why it’s awesome: The gigantic Deutsches Museum is one of the biggest science and technology museums across the globe, with more than 25,000 items on displays. Open since 1903, it’s a Munich must-do for anyone with a curious mind. The main museum building is located on an island in the River Isar, and there’s a further location in the city centre. There are exhibits related to astronomy, machines, aerospace, agriculture, electronics, chemistry, pharmaceuticals, hydraulics, glass, mining, and more.

What to do there: Learn tons of new things as you view the huge array of exhibits in the popular Deutsches Museum. See how humans have made massive leaps and bounds over the years when it comes to technological developments and feel impressed as you see inventions, tools, and machinery. From robots and space probes to windmills and ships, there are so many things to inspire your interest. Furthermore, there are hidden underground mines to explore too. It’s a fabulous Munich attraction for old and young alike.

#8 – Königlicher Hirschgarten – Cool place to see in Munich with friends!

• Delicious cuisine
• Relaxed ambience
• Gigantic beer garden

Why it’s awesome: The fun Königlicher Hirschgarten has one of the biggest beer gardens in the world. There are indoor dining areas too, where visitors can savour an assortment of delectable Bavarian dishes along with specialities from other parts of the country too. The establishment has a long history, having originally been used as a hunting lodge. The restaurant dates back to the late 1700s and was a popular place for important societal functions and special events. Serving lunch and dinner, patrons are also free to visit the Königlicher Hirschgarten for just a drink in the lovely outdoor setting.

What to do there: Take a seat in one of the restaurant’s six classy dining rooms, each decorated and furnished to a high standard for both comfort and visual appeal. Peruse the menu and order tempting dishes made from fresh, seasonal produce. Alternatively, dine and drink outdoors in the expansive beer garden—it can seat almost 8,000 people! If you plan to spend an afternoon or evening drinking you can also take your own favourite snacks along with you to enjoy with tasty brews from brewhouses like Herzogliches Brauhaus Tegernsee, Schloßbrauerei Kaltenberg, Tegernseer Ducal Brewery, and King Ludwig. You can also catch all the happening sporting action on the big-screen TVs and see the deer in the adjacent deer park.

#9 – Viktualienmarkt – A must-see for foodies!

• Historic marketplace
• Huge selection of food and drink
• Beer garden
• Sample Bavarian cuisine

Why it’s awesome: Open each day and located in the heart of the city, Viktualienmarkt is the oldest farmers’ market in Munich. Trade has been taking place here since the early 1800s. It has expanded lots since its early days when it mainly focused on fresh produce, and today sells meats, pastries, cheeses, sweets, fish, snacks, ready-to-eat dishes, fruit juices, and much more too. There are also a number of stalls that sell fresh-cut flowers and plants as well as sit-down restaurants. The market is one of the best places to eat in Munich for an authentic local experience, the vibe is lively, and there are many great photo opportunities.

What to do there: Make sure you’re hungry when you explore Munich’s vibrant Viktualienmarkt as there are many things that are sure to catch your eye and appeal to your taste buds. Sample a range of delicious Bavarian items; whether you grab something to go from one of the stalls, sit down for a more formal meal in a restaurant, or take your purchases to enjoy over a mug of beer in the beer garden, you’re sure to be more than satisfied. Immerse yourself in local life and take plenty of cool pictures to brighten up your Instagram feed. Don’t miss seeing the central maypole adorned with figures that display local crafts and trades and the lovely fountains throughout the market.

#10 – Bavaria Film Studios – Easily one of the most fun places to check out in Munich

• Cool 4D cinema
• Learn more about producing films and shows
• Go behind the scenes
• Interesting displays

Why it’s awesome: One of the coolest attractions in Munich for families and groups of fun-loving friends, the large Bavaria Film Studios has been in operation for almost a century, producing movies and popular TV shows. The complex has large indoor studios and various sets. Tours take people behind the scenes to learn more about the production process and see various items from the big screen. There’s also a 4D cinema where you can throw yourself right into the action.

What to do there: Join a 90-minute tour to step into the world of movies and TV. Your backstage tour will include studios, sets, props, outfits, and furnishings, post-production studios, and workshops. Your knowledgeable guide will tell you lots of stories about productions made onsite, anecdotes, and the history of the studios. Engage your senses in the exciting 4D cinema and take part in various interactive activities.

#11 – Neuhausen-Nymphenburg – A nice non-touristy place to visit in Munich

• Lesser-visited part of the city
• Food and drink
• Relaxing neighbourhood
• Palace and gardens

Why it’s awesome: Neuhausen-Nymphenburg is one of the most laid-back neighbourhoods in Munich. It sees relatively few tourists when compared with other parts of the city, yet there is plenty to please those who do make the trip. There are plenty of places to shop, including charming small boutiques with unique finds and one-off items, and a wealth of places to eat and drink. From quaint cafes to high-class restaurants and lively bars, there’s something to suit most moods. The area also has good sightseeing opportunities too.

What to do there: Stroll through the pleasant and relaxing neighbourhoods, being sure to stop at the attractive districts of Gern and Neuwittelsbach with their elegant villas. Visit the Baroque Nymphenburg Palace, a former summer residence that’s now one of the architectural hotspots in Munich. The gardens are colourful, peaceful, and pretty. The botanical gardens are also lovely and a great place to go with that special someone for a romantic afternoon. Looking for a spiritual experience? Why not visit BuddhaHaus, a Buddhist meditation centre? There are beer gardens, restaurants, cafes, bars, and nightclubs to enjoy throughout the day and night too.

#12 – Tierpark Hellabrunn – Awesome place to visit in Munich with kids!

• Family-friendly attractions
• Many animals
• Petting zoo
• Conservation programs

Why it’s awesome: Located on the banks of the River Isar, Tierpark Hellabrunn is a large zoo that spans some 99 acres (40 hectares) and houses animals from around the world. It’s a favourite destination for families with kids when they travel to Munich and has been rated as one of the best zoos in Europe. It first opened in 1911 and was among the world’s first geo-zoos, where animals from the same parts of the world are kept together.

Many of the animals roam semi-freely, with moats rather than cages to stop them from escaping. Enclosures try to replicate, as much as possible, the natural habitats of different creatures. The zoo is actively involved in conservation programs, educational activities, and breeding efforts.

What to do there: Wear comfortable shoes to walk around the large zoo and observe more than 750 fascinating species. Some of the creatures housed in the zoo are rare or endangered, and you can learn more about how the zoo tries to breed certain animals to ensure survival and growth of different species. Call by Hellabrunn’s Species Conservation Centre for more information. Diverse animals that call the zoo home include elephants, tigers, gorillas, giraffes, monkeys, alligators, zebras, penguins, polar bears, kangaroos, and wolves.

Aviaries contain interesting avian species and there are watery displays of aquatic animals. You can watch various creatures being fed, including fearsome piranhas, and attend talks to learn more about your favourite animals. The petting zoo is often popular with younger members of the family, and you’ll find a good choice of places to eat, drink, and pick up souvenirs.

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#13 – Munich Residenz – One of the most amazing places in Munich!

• Huge palace
• Stunning architecture
• Beautiful art-filled interiors
• Fascinating museum

Why it’s awesome: One of the most breath-taking and spell-binding landmarks in Munich, the Residenz is an old royal palace. It’s Germany’s biggest city palace. The large architectural marvel has around 130 rooms and ten beautiful courtyards. The earliest palace buildings were constructed in the 1380s, with many additions made over subsequent years. There are three main sections to the palace: the Old Residence, the Festsaalbau, and the Königsbau. Other features include a church, a concert venue, royal stables, and a theatre. The grounds are stunning and inside there is a terrific museum that includes several unusual items.

What to do there: Explore the huge complex, with its various buildings, fortifications, and splendour. You’ll likely note several architectural and artistic designs, including Baroque, Renaissance, Neoclassicism, and Rococo. The interior details are sure to dazzle, with lashings of gold, colourful walls, an abundance of art, opulent chandeliers, and myriad treasures. Walkthrough the splendid Antiquarium, a former grand banqueting hall filled with marble busts. Peek inside former private quarters, see where royalty used to entertain their guests, and look inside formal rooms. Admire the huge collection of antiques and antiquities, and don’t miss visiting the reliquary room.

One of the most unusual things to do in Berlin, the room contains various human remains, including what is said to be the skull of John the Baptist! Marvel at the many jewels in the Treasury; spread over ten halls there are crowns, goblets, gold, royal symbols, swords, and lots of other precious regalia. After enjoying the many interior charms, take a walk around the gorgeous gardens and courtyards.

#14 – Asam Church – One of the more unique places to visit in Munich!

• Interesting back story
• Feast for the eyes
• Spiritual ambience

Why it’s awesome: Built in the mid-1700s, the Asam Church is a gleaming Munich must-see. While the exterior it elegant, it gives away little clue as to the richness and opulence that is hidden inside. Nestled between homes along the bustling Sendlingerstraße, the place of worship was created by two devout brothers seeking a closer connection with the divine. Originally intended to be used as a personal chapel, the creative brothers adorned every interior surface with stunning statues and paintings.

The church may be small but the excellent use of space and lighting makes it appear much larger than it actually is. It also contains a number of confessional areas. There’s no charge to look inside the church. Although visitors can’t walk around, it’s easy to admire the beauty through the railings.

What to do there: Notice the significance of light in the chapel: the seating area is darker, representing earthly suffering, the middle section is brighter, created in honour of the Emperor, and the upper section is positively radiant, the bright lighting symbolising God and heaven. Feast your eyes on artistic and religious splendour, including a marvellous ceiling fresco, statues that represent the trinity, the ornate altar, many allegorical scenes, angels, stunning reliefs, and more. It’s difficult to know where to look first when admiring the colourful and detailed interiors.

#15 – Alte Pinakothek – A great place to visit in Munich if you are alone/traveling solo

• Elegant building
• Rich collection of art
• See works by Masters
• World-renowned collection

Why it’s awesome: Open since the 1830s and established to house the rich collection of art owned by royalty, the Alte Pinakothek is among the world’s oldest art galleries. When built, it was also one of the largest. The Neo-Renaissance building houses many grand works of art, including those by well-known masters. The collection itself is older than the building, having been started in the 1500s. Works include those commissioned by royalty, pieces taken from places of worship, and items obtained from elsewhere.

What to do there: Marvel at striking art from throughout the ages. Take time to view the extensive collection of paintings by early masters, with German, Flemish, Dutch, Spanish, French, and Italian among the artists represented. Indeed, the collection is seen as being one of the most important across the globe for historic European art. Feast your eyes on work by leading names like Rembrandt, Da Vinci, Albrecht Dürer, and Peter Paul Rubens.

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Munich

Is Munich worth visiting?

As the capital of Bavaria, it is 100% worth a visit. There’s a ton of things to see and do there.

What is Munich famous for?

It is famous for its number of breweries and the world-famous annual Oktoberfest celebration.

What places should I see for a day in Munich?

No trip to Munich would be complete without seeing Marienplatz, Frauenkirche and the Deutsches Museum.

What is a free place to visit in Munich?

If you want to see Munich’s fabulous architecture, make sure to head over to Marienplatz and wonder the streets.

There are many marvellous places to visit in Munich, with something to appeal to most interests. Spend a fun-filled day at the nearby Allgäu Skyline Park, home to rollercoasters, water rides, and other attractions. Admire Munich’s many glorious churches , including the Theatine Church of St. Cajetan, St. Peter’s Church, and Michaelskirche. Pay homage to the local automotive industry at the BMW Museum, and soak up different artistic genres at art museums like the Lenbachhaus, the State Gallery of Modern Art, the Neue Pinakothek, and the Glyptothek. Watch a performance at the National Theatre, and take day trips to nearby places like the moving Dachau Concentration Camp, Nuremburg, Herrenchiemsee, and the amazing Neuschwanstein Castle.

Armed with this list of the best places to visit in Munich, you’re sure to have a memorable time in one of Germany’s most enchanting cities.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Munich

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Dec 26, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Munich, the capital of Bavaria and the third largest city in Germany, lies on the River Isar on the fringes of the Bavarian Alps. It began as a monastery, growing into a settlement when the Duke of Bavaria allowed the monks to establish a market at the crossing of the route from Salzburg and the river.

You can still follow the lines of Munich's medieval walls in a ring of curving streets and see three of its impressive old city gates. The focal point of Munich's historic inner city is the large, open square, the Marienplatz , where visitors and locals pause to watch the animated clock play out its legend two or three times daily.

Munich is a fun-loving city, known for its seasonal festivals and rich cultural calendar, so along with visiting the beautiful churches and outstanding museums and palaces, you should spend some time enjoying life with the locals at a festival, a colorful market, or over a slice of one of Munich's famous cakes in a konditorei.

Munich residents also enjoy their many public parks and gardens, in particular, the lovely 900-acre English Garden (Englischer Garten). Spend at least a few days exploring the city, planning your time with the help of this handy list of the top tourist attractions and things to do in Munich

1. Marienplatz and the Neues Rathaus

2. walk or bike in the englischer garten (english garden), 3. nymphenburg palace and gardens, 4. munich residenz, 5. the olympic park, 6. bmw museum, 7. bmw welt, 8. viktualienmarkt, 9. tierpark hellabrunn (hellabrunn zoo), 10. shop at christmas markets (christkindlmarkts), 11. art museums in the kunstareal district, 12. peterskirche (st. peter's church), 13. hofgarten, 14. deutsches museum, 15. asamkirche (asam church), 16. frauenkirche, 17. michaelskirche (st. michael's church), 18. cuvilliés theater, 19. the theatine church of st. cajetan, where to stay in munich for sightseeing, recommended day trip tours from munich, munich, germany - climate chart.

Marienplatz has been Munich's central square since the city's foundation; the site of medieval jousting tournaments; and until 1807, where markets were held. In addition to the massive Neues Rathaus (New City Hall) that fills one entire side of the square, you'll find the Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall) forming a gate at the far end.

In the large open square are the Mariensäule , a tall column to the Virgin Mary erected in 1638, and the Fischbrunnen , a newer fountain that includes bronze figures rescued from an earlier 19th-century fountain. Popular with shoppers for its stores, boutiques, and restaurants, Marienplatz is the focus of festivals and scene of a large Christmas Market , one of several in the city. During the Fasching carnival, the Narren-Lindwurm (dragon) dances over the square.

Daily at 11am and noon, and at 5pm from March through October, everyone stops to watch the famous Glockenspiel on the front of the Neues Rathaus, as its mechanical figures dine, joust, and dance. It's one of the city's best-loved traditions, and something you shouldn't miss. Take some time to appreciate the intricate stonework on the Neo-Gothic façade.

It's hard to remember that this building dates only from the late 19th century, completed in 1892. You can ride the elevator to the middle gallery of the building's 85-meter tower for views over the city. The Tourist Information Center is in the Rathaus, and in the back of the building is a restaurant serving traditional Bavarian dishes.

Address: Marienplatz, 80331 München

Munich's English Garden is not only the largest city park in Germany - it covers an area of 910 acres - it's also one of the most beautiful. Naturally arranged groups of trees and plants offer ever-changing vistas, and nine kilometers of winding streams and an artificial lake complete the impression of a natural landscape.

Designed in 1785 as a military garden, the English Garden attracts walkers, joggers, and cyclists to its 78 kilometers of pathways and bridle paths. It's also a pleasant place to sunbathe and picnic, and you can stop for a snack or drink at the Chinesischen Turm (Chinese Tower), a 25-meter-tall pagoda.

In 1972, a Japanese garden was created on an island at the southern end of the garden to house an authentic teahouse, a gift in honor of the 1772 Olympics. The park also contains the Bavarian National Museum, with its fine collection of medieval German sculptures and tapestries, and the Bavarian State Archaeological Collection , which displays local prehistoric artifacts.

A curiosity in the park is the Eisbachwelle , a wave created by the emergence of the Eisbach river from its underground course. Crowds gather to watch surfers' stunts; except for experienced surfers, it's a spectator sport and not for beginners.

The large Baroque palace of Nymphenburg, in the northwest outskirts of the city, was originally the summer residence of the Wittelsbach Electors in the 17th century. Extending more than 600 meters from wing to wing, this vast palace is surrounded on each side by the Nymphenburg Canal, which splits as it passes around the main buildings before reuniting again in a fountain-adorned pool in front of the main façade.

Your first stop should be the Central Pavilion , a cube-shaped palace in the style of an Italian villa, completed in 1674 and home to the lavishly decorated three-story Stone Hall (Steinerner Saal) and a number of private chambers with fine furnishings and artwork. In the Palace Chapel, notice the expressive ceiling painting illustrating the life of Mary Magdalene. Beside the palace in the former Court Stables, the Marstallmuseum displays a collection of beautiful state coaches.

In the magnificent 17th-century gardens of Nymphenburg Park stands the Amalienburg , a palatial hunting lodge known for its famous Hall of Mirrors. Elsewhere in the gardens are a maze with the Heckentheater (Hedge Theater); marble statues of Greek gods; a large fountain; and a number of hothouses, including the Palm House, which has Germany's first hot-water heating system.

Address: Schloss Nymphenburg 1, 80638 München

Official site: www.schloss-nymphenburg.de/englisch/palace/index.htm

For centuries the seat of the dukes, electors, and kings of Bavaria, the Munich Residenz is one of Europe's most spectacular palaces. Laid out around seven large courts, the vast Residenz complex comprises three main sections: the Königsbau , fronting onto Max-Joseph-Platz; the Alte Residenz , facing Residenzstrasse; and the Festsaalbau (Banqueting Hall), overlooking the Hofgarten .

The earliest section of this huge complex was the magnificent Antiquarium, built in 1579 and now part of the outstanding Residenz Museum . The Alte Residenz, a masterpiece of the late Renaissance and testimony to the growing power of Bavaria, followed soon after, and the final components - the Neoclassical Königsbau, the Festsaalbau, and the Court Church - were completed in 1848.

Today, the Residenz houses a number of monuments and museums, including the Residenz Museum, the Treasury, the Court Church of All Saints (Allerheiligen-Hofkirche), and Cuvilliés-Theater. Be sure to explore the palace grounds, too, with its many wonderful old courtyards and arcades.

Address: Residenzstrasse 1, 80333 München

Official site: www.residenz-muenchen.de/englisch/residenc/index.htm

Home to the 1972 Summer Olympics, Munich's spectacular Olympic Park covers an area of some 2.7 million square meters on the Oberwiesenfeld, a former training ground for the Royal Bavarian army. Now a major recreational center, this huge facility hosts a variety of major concerts and events, including the summer Tollwood Festival (the winter Tollwood is held at Theresienhöhe, home of the Oktoberfest).

A number of family activities have been added since the Olympics, so you'll find plenty of things to do here. These include a stadium roof climb, ziplining, and behind-the-scenes tours showcasing the facility's splendid architecture and design. The Olympic Tower , a 290-meter-high television tower built in 1968 that was renamed in honor of the games, has viewing platforms in the Aussichtskorb offering breathtaking views over the city.

Address: Spiridon-Louis-Ring 21, 80809 Munich

Official site: http://www.olympiapark.de/en/olympiapark-munich/

Next to BMW's soaring headquarters and factories at the Olympic Park is a round contemporary building with a metal shell, housing BMW's museum. Here, car fans will find examples of nearly all the models the company has made, including sports cars, racing models, and motorcycles.

You can see current models and learn about the technology of modern automobile construction, as well as get glimpses of future propulsion technologies and designs the company is exploring. Those who think cars are just for getting from point A to point B might want to skip this one, but for fans of things automotive, it's a must.

Address: Am Olympiapark 2, 80809 München

Official site: https://www.bmw-welt.com/en.html

Not to be confused with the BMW Museum (above), although it's on the same huge manufacturing complex near the Olympic Park, BMW Welt is a gigantic showroom. Here, you can see every vehicle the company makes, sit inside them, and learn what the future cars and motorcycles may look like.

Whereas the BMW Museum is more about past models and history, the Welt is all about now, with an exhibition area and a three-dimensional media façade with immersive visions of the future of mobility. Interactive exhibits consider sustainability and offer insights into the design process. You can take tours of the BMW Group Plant to see the production process.

Opened in 2007, the BMW Welt is the most visited tourist attraction in Bavaria. The building's futuristic steel-and-glass architecture is part of the allure, plus the fact that admission is free.

Address: Am Olympiapark, München

In 1807, when the farmers market outgrew Marienplatz, it was moved to the nearby square, where it thrived and expanded, until today it covers 22,000 square meters and includes a butchers' hall, bakery, fish hall, and flower market in addition to its fruit and vegetable vendors.

It's not just a place for locals to buy items for the night's dinner. Fresh breads and pastries, wheels of cheese, and cured meats are good picnic makings, and tables and benches provide a place for shoppers and visitors to sit while they eat sizzling sausages, hot pretzels, and other foods prepared in mobile kitchens.

Above the market stands a colorful maypole , with traditionally dressed figures representing the various crafts and trades that were practiced in this part of town.

Spread across 89 acres, Hellabrunn Zoo is consistently ranked among the best zoos in Europe. Laid out in 1911, it was the first zoo in the world to have animals grouped according to where they came from.

Today, more than 19,000 animals from 757 species are held in open enclosures meant to replicate the conditions of the wild, with animals that normally share habitats kept together wherever possible.

Popular features include the Elephant House (now a listed building), the enormous 5,000-square-meter free-flight aviary, the Polarium, and ape houses. Located adjacent to the Isar River in a designated conservation area, the zoo has many delightful footpaths, playgrounds, and picnic spots.

Address: Tierparkstrasse 30, 81543 München

From the last week in November until December 24 , the parks and squares of Munich turn into a colorful, sparkling Christmas extravaganza of colored lights, evergreen boughs, and holiday music. Colorful frosted gingerbread hearts decorate little cabins filled with candies, cookies, wooden toys, Christmas tree ornaments, and holiday baubles, as well as local handcrafts in all mediums.

The largest market is in Marienplatz , where local chorales serenade shoppers with Christmas music. Two blocks away, at the Rindermarkt, the market is filled with figures and accessories for crèche scenes. Miniature shepherds, wisemen, angels, animals, and the holy family are in every imaginable media: delicate Alpine woodcarvings from nearby Oberammergau, ceramic, terra-cotta pottery, wax, and plastic.

One of the most charming is the Christmas village inside the courtyard of the Residenz, where a children's theater and bakers turning out hot treats add to the appeal. Not far away, an entire square turns into a Medieval Marketplace, where artisans and craftspeople dressed in costumes of the Middle Ages demonstrate and sell authentic period goods.

Wherever you go, you will find traditional lebkuchen (gingerbread) from Nuremberg - sold at Munich's first Christmas markets in the 1600s and still favorites today.

Read More: Top-Rated Christmas Markets in Germany

Königsplatz was laid out in Neoclassical style in 1862, and in the art district around it, you'll find one of the finest groups of art museums anywhere in Europe. First are the three Pinakothek art galleries: the Old Picture Gallery (Alte Pinakothek), with its fine collections of Dutch, Flemish, Italian, French, German, Spanish, and medieval paintings; the New Picture Gallery (Neue Pinakothek), with its displays of art ranging from Rococo to Art Nouveau; and the State Gallery of Modern Art (Pinakothek der Moderne), which includes works by Picasso and Warhol.

Other museums of note are the Glyptothek and the State Antiquities Collection (Staatliche Antikensammlung), with their large compilations of ancient sculptures and antiquities.

The latest addition to this treasury of art is Lenbachhaus , an Italianate villa that was the home and studio of artist Franz von Lenbach. The villa and its new extension house the world's foremost collection of works by the Blue Rider movement, a group of Expressionist painters led by Wassily Kandinsky and Franz Marc.

Address: Königsplatz 1, 80333 München

Known affectionately as Old Peter, St. Peter's Church (Peterskirche) is Munich's oldest parish church and stands on Petersberg, a small hill originally settled by monks. Built in Gothic style in 1386, the church was altered with the addition of a Baroque choir with three apses in 1636, while the tower was given a lantern dome in place of its earlier Gothic spires.

Interior highlights include the font by Hans Krumper, the red marble monuments by Erasmus Grasser, and the 15th-century Schrenk Altar with its sculptures of the Crucifixion and the Last Judgment. Also of note is the 20-meter-tall 18th-century high altar with its figures of the Four Fathers of the Church and St. Peter.

The panel-paintings on the choir walls by Jan Polack are also worth seeing, as is the highly regarded Altar of the Virgin of Mercy (Mariahilf-Altar) from 1756. Finally, the 299-step tower - famous for its eight clock faces matched by eight bells - reaches a height of 91 meters and offers panoramic views as far as the Alps for those with the stamina to climb the 306 steps.

Address: Rindermarkt 1, 80331 München

In the center of Munich, just off Odeonsplatz, the Hofgarten (Court Garden) was built between 1613 and 1617 , adjoining the Residenz and for the sole use of the court. It remained a private preserve for more than 160 years, opening to the public in 1780.

Since then this peaceful sanctuary with its intersecting paths, fountains, beds of bright flowers, and shaded arcades have been a favorite place for locals and visitors to stroll and relax. The focal point is the central pavilion, featuring eight arches, with paths radiating from each one to form beds for lawns and flowers. Fountains mark the points where the paths intersect.

Modeled on Italian Renaissance gardens when it was designed, the Hofgarten became more like the then-popular landscape gardens during the 19 th century. After its destruction in World War II, it was rebuilt to more resemble the original.

The Deutsches Museum is the world's largest museum of technology, and its 17,000 artifacts illustrate exhibits that range from the polished wood and brass of early astronomical instruments to the latest science on global warming. The museum is a constant time travel between early tech and high tech, as you follow the development of each scientific and technical discipline from its beginnings to the present.

The extensive collections relating to transport are astonishing, covering trains, aircraft, shipping, cars, even bicycles. You can see a replica of the Red Baron's biplane from the First World War, examine a Venetian gondola up close, and look inside a 19th-century wooden fishing boat. There's always something happening, from dramatic demonstrations of electricity to concerts showing how musical instruments work.

Kids' Kingdom is filled with clever hands-on activities designed for children ages three through eight, exploring light, music, ships, computers, water, sound, astronomy, and more. It is Germany's most popular museum and a favorite place to visit for families.

Address: Museumsinsel 1, 80538 München

Official site: www.deutsches-museum.de/en

The beautiful Rococo Asam Church, dedicated to St. John of Nepomuk, was completed in 1746 by brothers Cosmas and Egid Asam and is richly decorated with stucco figures, frescoes, and oil paintings. While its exterior is impressive enough, particularly the large doorway flanked by massive columns and crowned by a figure of St. John kneeling in prayer, it's the interior that's most memorable.

Highlights include a wrought-iron grille from 1776 that separates the stucco figures of the saints from the long nave with its galleries. On the projecting cornice under the ceiling is a magnificent fresco depicting the life of St. John. The most notable feature of the interior, though, is the high altar, enclosed by four twisted columns and on which sits a glass shrine containing a wax figure of the church's patron saint.

Address: Sendlinger Straße 32, 80331 München

Munich's huge brick Frauenkirche - the Cathedral Church of Our Lady - was completed in 1488, a Late Gothic church that owes its impact to its great size. Massive twin 100-meter-tall towers, with their characteristic Renaissance domes, tower over a high building 109 meters long by 40 meters wide.

Highlights inside the cathedral include the 1622 Tomb of the Emperor Ludwig the Bavarian in black marble with bronze figures, a 1620 altarpiece of the Assumption by Peter Candid, and the Baroque red marble font in the Baptistery with its early 14th-century Sorrowing Christ.

A popular curiosity is the strange footprint in the floor of the porch, said to have been left by the devil after he came to inspect the church. So delighted was he that the windows seemed to have been forgotten (the row of columns hides them when the church is viewed from the entrance), he stamped his foot, leaving the footprint that can still be seen today.

The twin towers of Frauenkirche are a good landmark for orientation, visible from all over the city. You can climb to the top for views across the city to the Bavarian Alps.

Address: Frauenplatz 12, 80331 München

• Read More: Exploring Munich's Frauenkirche (The Cathedral of Our Lady)

The largest Renaissance church north of the Alps, St. Michael's was completed in 1597, with a high barrel-vaulted roof in the nave. The pattern of the triumphal arch at the entrance to the choir is continued in the arches of the transepts, side chapels, and galleries. The three-story-high altar has an altarpiece, St. Michael Fighting the Devil , from 1587.

The four bronze reliefs dating from 1595 were intended for the tomb of Duke William V, while in the side chapels are some fine paintings and a precious reliquary of Saints Cosmas and Damian from around 1400.

The church's historical importance is in the Royal Crypt (Fürstengruft) underneath the choir, where 41 members of the House of Wittelsbach - among them Duke Wilhelm V, the church's patron; Elector Maximilian I; and King Ludwig II - are buried.

Address: Neuhauser Straße 6, 80333 München

On the east side of the Residenz in Munich, the Cuvilliés Theater was built in 1755 and is the finest example of a Rococo theater with tiered boxes in Germany. The magnificent carved woodwork of the auditorium, with its four tiers of boxes, including one built especially for the electors, was safely stored away during WWII, thus allowing its reconstruction in 1958.

Architecturally stunning, the rare elegance and rich hues of its intimate Rococo interior makes it a truly unique setting for operas such as Mozart's Idomeneo, which premiered here in 1781, and which, along with many other Late Baroque period operas, is still performed on occasion. You can visit the theater separately or on a combined ticket with the Residenz and its museums.

Address: Residenzstraße 1, 80539 München

Official site: http://www.residenz-muenchen.de/englisch/cuv/

The Theatine Church of St. Cajetan (Theatinerkirche St. Kajetan), a basilica built in the style of the Italian High Baroque, was completed in 1690, with a stunning façade, twin towers, a massive 71-meter-high dome, and richly decorated interior. Exterior highlights include numerous marble statues of saints and the lantern with a lion weathervane atop the dome.

The interior, dominated by the tall round-headed arches of the barrel vaulting and the dome over the crossing, is washed in white, with rich stucco ornamentation. Other interior highlights include the high altar, with its picture of The Virgin Enthroned with Angels from 1646 by Caspar de Crayer (a pupil of Rubens), and the Altar of the Virgin, with a painting of the Holy Kinship from 1676. In the Ducal Burial Vault, you'll see the tombs of members of the House of Wittelsbach, long-time rulers of Bavaria.

Address: Salvatorplatz 2a, 80333 München

All that remains of the medieval walls that once enclosed Munich's Altstadt (old town) are the impressive gates at Karlstor, Sendlinger Tor, and Isartor, but the broad, curving streets that replaced them still define the historic center. It's here that you'll find most tourist attractions, with Marienplatz at its center. Major museums lie just outside the compact center. Most of these highly rated hotels in Munich are an easy walk from Marienplatz:

Luxury Hotels :

• Near the Isartor and 10 minutes from Marienplatz, Hotel Torbraeu has nicely furnished rooms in a historic building.
• In the heart of the old city overlooking Viktualienmarkt, near the daily food and flower market, Louis Hotel offers spacious, stylish rooms and a sauna/fitness area.
• A pool and sauna are added benefits at Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski Munchen , set amid high-end shops on the uber-fashionable Maximilianstrasse, a five-minute walk from Marienplatz.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Locations simply don't get any better than Platzl Hotel , next to the Residenz palace and museums and a few steps from Marienplatz and shopping streets. Breakfast is included, and the beautifully furnished rooms have thoughtful amenities. Two blocks from the Residenz palace and museums and close to Marienplatz,
• Maximilian Munich is on a quiet street, with some rooms overlooking a garden courtyard.
• The hospitable Hotel Mirabell offers well-furnished rooms in a neighborhood beside the main train station, just off Karlsplatz and the entrance to the old town.

Budget Hotels:

• Family-friendly Hotel Biederstein is opposite the English Garden in the lively Schwabing neighborhood; a buffet breakfast is included.
• Breakfast is included at Jedermann Hotel , a 15-minute walk from the old town but on a tram line to its center.
• Near Sendlinger Tor and the Rococo-style Asamkirche and a ten-minute walk from Marienplatz, Acanthushotel has small, comfortable rooms.
• Contemporary guest rooms at Schwan Locke are large, some with kitchenettes. The hotel is close to the main train station and within walking distance of Karlsplatz and Marienplatz.
• Just two hours by train from Munich is the beautiful city of Salzburg; birthplace of Mozart and the setting of the film The Sound of Music. If you have time to add this city to your itinerary, the Salzburg Small Group Day Tour from Munich is a hassle free, comfortable, and fun way to see Salzburg in a day. This tour includes a scenic rail journey, a walking tour of Salzburg, and free time to wander the historic streets on your own.

Castle Tours:

• To see some of Germany's beautiful castles, there are a couple of options: The Royal Castles of Neuschwanstein and Linderhof Day Tour from Munich takes you on a full-day tour to the Bavarian Mountains to see the Neuschwanstein Castle, used as a model for Disney's Sleeping Beauty, and the Linderhof hunting lodge castle. The slightly shorter Neuschwanstein Castle Small Group Day Tour includes just one castle. Note that both of these tours exclude entrance fees to the castles.

Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site :

• The Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Small Group Tour from Munich is a five-hour trip with a professional guide to this memorial site, set on the grounds of the former concentration camp. The tour includes round-trip transportation and a guide.

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The 20 best things to do in Munich, Germany

A local’s list of the top tourist attractions, highlights, and things to do in munich..

Are you planning a trip to Bavaria’s capital? And now you are wondering about the best things to do in Munich? What to see and what to skip?

Well, then I got you covered. I have been living in Munich for the past 20 years and I love exploring my hometown. So, in this guide, I am going to show you the absolute must-sees and top tourist attractions . But I also mixed in some insider tips along the way so you get a memorable experience beyond the beaten tourist tracks, so you can plan your perfect Munich itinerary (<- click to read mine)

Munich has a history of more than 800 years and is now the third-largest city in Germany. It’s also the most affluent region of my country, which sadly means you’ll face higher prices than in Berlin or Cologne. But let that not deter you – there are plenty of bargains to be had and I’m going to reveal some of them to you in this travel guide.

You will probably need around 3-4 days to see it all. There are some beautiful day trip options from Munich , so you could basically stay a week or more. But I also prepared a one day Munich itinerary , for those in a hurry. Anyways, let’s get started with my favorite Munich highlights, shall we?

1. Marienplatz

Start your Munich tour at the heart of the city. The Marienplatz (Square of our Lady) with its imposing neo-gothic city hall (“ Neues Rathaus “) is one of the best photography spots in the city . Every day at 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. the gigantic carillon comes to life. The Munich Glockenspiel is the largest in Germany and you’ll find the square particularly crowded around these times (for a reason).

You’ll find many traditional restaurants and shops around the Marienplatz, but it’s not exactly the place where locals hang out or enjoy their dinner (but you might enjoy the Rathaus Keller right below the city hall for lunch). As it is also the start of the Munich pedestrian area , you should definitely consider walking all the way up to Stachus, as there are a couple of beautiful churches along the way and many shops to get a nice souvenir.

The station underneath Marienplatz is also quite famous. I listed it among the 10 most beautiful subway stations in Munich . So, if you are a fan of modern architecture, don’t miss it. You can read more about Marienplatz here .

Note: You can actually climb the tower of the city hall for a small fee of 4.00 euros per person. You’ll get the best view, however, from the Alter Peter church tower (see below). It’s featured in my list of the 20 best photo locations in Munich .

2. Munich Residence Palace

The Münchner Residenz has been the seat of the Bavarian kings, prince-electors, and dukes for almost 400 years. From the Renaissance to Neoclassicism, you’ll find nearly every style and epoche represented in one of the 130 staterooms you can visit on the extended tour. The magnificent Antiquarium and the Ancestor Gallery are probably the most popular parts.

I do have to warn you, however, that the Residence Palace is a true maze and you’ll need around 4 hours to see it all. Mind you, that is time well spent, as each and every flight of stairs brings you to another amazing apartment, festival hall, church or throne room. It’s easy to visit the fantastic Nibelung halls on the ground floor, but if you see the sign, definitely go downstairs and they will blow your mind! Check out my list of the 15 best castles near Munich for further inspiration.

Note: Definitely make sure to visit the outstanding Treasury on the ground floor where you can see the Bavarian crown jewels and other outstanding artwork made from gold, silver, and diamonds. It’s not covered by the standard ticket, but worth to pay the extra 5 Euros. Find more information here .

3. Church of Our Lady

The Frauenkirche is the symbol of Munich and you’ll basically find the cathedral on every postcard and brochure in my hometown. And you are lucky, 2020 is the first year the towers are free of scaffolding (after nearly 10 years of restoration work). It’s still not possible to climb them, though.

The cathedral is not only the biggest but also one of the oldest in town. It was consecrated in 1494 and remained virtually unchanged ever since – at least from outside. During World War II the church was hit by a bomb and much of the interiors got destroyed. But the bigger loss occurred 90 years older. Back then and all over Europe, it was popular to purify the baroque churches and bring them back to a “virgin” (neo-)gothic state. What you see inside now is largely a reconstruction from the 1980ies (using historic original parts).

4. Alte Pinakothek

Did you know? Munich is one of the top art metropoles on this planet. You’ll find almost 100 museums in and around Bavaria’s capital . Not all of them are world-renowned, but you definitely need to the Alte Pinakothek in Munich’s art quarter ( Kunstareal ; find a list of the best museums in Munich here ). It is Munich’s oldest museum and home to an outstanding collection of German, Italian and Flemish old masters.

So, expect pictures by Albrecht Dürrer, Leonardo Da Vinci, Raphael, Rembrandt, Rubens, and other master painters. They usually have a spectacular special exhibition on the ground floor worth checking out. So, definitely look it up on the official website before you visit. You’ll also find the New Pinakothek next door, but it will be closed until at least 2022 (which is the reason it does not appear on this list).

Note: The entrance fee is only 1 euro on Sundays. Also, don’t forget the Alte Pinakothek is closed on Mondays.

5. BMW World & museum

Munich is not only famous for its beer, fairy tale castles, and leather trousers. You’ll also find the BMW headquarters in the north of the city . Why is this important? Well, as a tourist you can’t visit the famous cylindrical BWM towers, but you can visit the BWM world and museum right next to it.

The BMW Welt is an architectural masterpiece and actually one of the few free things to do in Munich. It’s, more or less, one big car saloon where you can few all the current (and some past) models, futuristic innovations, and racing cars. If you are a car lover, you shouldn’t miss it. The adjacent museum is not free, but equally amazing as it takes you through the whole history of the Bayerische Motorenwerke .

Note: There is a 3-star Michelin restaurant on the third floor of the BMW Welt called Esszimmer . The Museum is closed on Mondays, while the showrooms are open all week, except on Sundays (closes at noon). Also, be aware that the Olympic Park is right next to it.

6. Nymphenburg Palace

Wondering about my personal favorite place to visit in Munich? It’s the Nymphenburg Palace. T he summer residence of the Bavarian kings and prince-electors is just beautiful beyond words. You’ll find imposing staterooms and a gigantic hall with a beautiful ceiling fresco inside.

While beautiful, I love the park behind the palace even more. You’ll find a couple of smaller palaces scattered across the landscape and each of them is a true gem worth visiting. Pagodenburg, Amalienburg, and Badenburg (a bathing palace, can you believe it?) are what you need to see, but simply strolling around the English landscape park is a treat in and by itself.

There are three museums in the wings of Nymphenburg Palace that you might want to check out if you got some spare time. The carriage museum is probably the most impressive (sounds a bit dull, I know, but I promise you won’t regret it), but the Nymphenburg porcelain collection is just as beautiful. If you are traveling with kids, the Museum Mensch and Natur will be a special place.

Note: Don’t skip the adjacent Botanical Garden. Even in winter, the huge greenhouses will invite you to explore plants from all over the world. And it’s one of my favorite places to visit in autumn .

7. Bavarian National Museum

Bavaria has a long and spectacular history. The Wittelsbacher family ruled my home country for as long as people can remember. And over the centuries they amassed quite some wealth which all become the property of the Bavarian State after World War I. If you want to delve into the fascinating history of Bavaria, then you absolutely have to visit the Bavarian National Museum.

It’s far from a boring history museum with dusty cabinets, but more an arts & design collection. Ivory, porcelain, furniture and other outstanding artworks from the past 1,000 years are on display in lovely & modern exhibition halls. It’s actually my favorite museum in Munich, as it is so diverse.

Tip: Visit on Sundays, as the entrance fee is only 1 euro (except for the special exhibitions) and take some extra time as the museum is huge and there’s quite a lot to see. And don’t skip the amazing nativity scene collection in the cellar.

8. English Garden

Looking for a beautiful escape in the middle of the city? Then head straight to the Englische Garten right behind the Munich Residence Palace. This is the place where most locals will hang out in summer (so expect it to be quite crowded on weekends). For most, it’s a popular park to go for a walk, jogging, or playing sports.

Right in the middle of it, you’ll find the Chinese Tower ( Chinesische Turm ). The wooden pagoda is the center of a beautiful and lively beer garden where you can enjoy a traditional stein of beer and some authentic local food. On weekends, there is even live music (typically a bavarian brass band). As an alternative, you could also walk even further to the artificial lake Kleinhesselohe where you’ll find another beer garden. Here, you could even rent a pedal boat for a little romantic outing on the water. You can also book a ride in a horse-drawn carriage if you want to add a little romantic time to your visit in Munich

Note: The Englische Garten several kilometers long. No need to explore it all, but don’t limit yourself to the tiny Hofgarten right behind the palace. At least try to see the Monopteros temple, which is a particularly scenic viewpoint.

9. Pinakothek der Moderne

I already mentioned the Alte Pinakothek, but there is actually a fantastic museum for lovers of modern art as well. I personally love the building of the Pinakothek der Moderne, as it offers o many viewpoints and fantastic lines of sight. The collection is quite amazing as well. Gerhard Richter, Picasso, Salvador Dali, Joseph Beuys – there are notable artworks from all the famous artists of the 20th century on display.

In the basement, you will find a beautiful design collection . There’s not only Art Nouveau but also contemporary industrial design. So, you’ll find the first apple pc, game boys, and smartphones there, along with outstanding cars and modern furniture.

Tip: If you like contemporary art, then you should visit the Museum Brandhorst is right behind the museum.

10. Königsplatz

For most of its history, Munich wasn’t a large city. It only started to really grow at the beginning of the 19th century. But as the city gained prominence, there came a need for further representation and the Königsplatz ist the best example of this burgeoning importance. Here, King Ludwig of Bavaria had a neoclassical ensemble built to house two ancient greek museums.

It all looks a bit like a mixture of an ancient Egyptian temple and the Acropolis, which probably was the intended effect. Famous architect Leo von Klenze is responsible for the eclectic mix. Fans of classical greek sculptures will love the Glypthotek Museum on the right side, while lovers of ancient Greek pottery, bronze, and jewelry should definitely visit the Antikensammlung on the left side.

11. Hofbräuhaus

Hofbräuhaus – no other place is as deeply connected with the Bavarian beer culture than the most popular restaurant among tourists. You’ll find it in the heart of the Munich old town, with an endless mass of souvenir shops nearby. The place dates to 1589 when a new brewery was built to supply the court, but the current building was only finished in 1897.

I do have to warn you, however, that it is a place for tourists and it always was. Locals really don’t go there, because even in the 19th century it was already extremely popular among visitors . So, popular, they had to move the actual brewery on the outskirts (to Maxweberplatz) to make room for more tables. But then again, if you want to see a big Bavarian beer hall with live music and authentic food, it’s probably one of the best places to visit in Munich. The beer is actually quite good as well. The place is huge, so try to go a bit further to the back (or on the second floor) to escape the crowds.

Note: Hofbräuhaus is by far the only beer hall in the city center. Augustinerbräu or Schneider Bräuhaus are viable alternatives that are actually a bit more authentic.

12. Lenbachhaus

Munich became very popular among artists in the second half of the 19th century. So, popular, in fact, that a few artists were celebrated like pop stars . Franz von Lenbach was one of them. He was famous for his portraits among the aristocracy and heads of state, and made a fortune painting them. His oeuvre is basically a who-is-who of the late 19th century. He built himself a huge villa which is now home to a museum, and you can even tour his old apartment.

The majority of the museum is dedicated to the artist from the Blue Rider (Der Blaue Reiter). If you love Wassily Kandinsky, Franz Marc, August Macke, Gabriele Münter, Paul Klee, Marianne von Werefkin, then you won’t find a better place to enjoy their works on this planet. They also acquired some important installations by Joseph Beuys, so it’s really worth visiting. Here’s the official website .

13. Viktualienmarkt

There are many wonderful restaurants in the inner city, but if you want to sample authentic bavarian food it really doesn’t get any better than the Viktualienmarkt. You’ll find the gourmet farmers market right behind the central square, and it’s full of booths selling cheese, sausages, vegetables, and fruits. And the far back, there are also a couple of smaller street food stalls and juice bars.

Most importantly, there is a beer garden in the middle of it all. So, why is this important? According to the Bavarian beer garden law, you are allowed to bring your own food to your table. You only need to buy the trinks (if you can’t handle a stein full of beer, get a Radler , which is beer mixed with lemonade). I recommend you to browse the market, buy yourself some snacks, and then sit down and eat them while enjoying a cold blond bavarian beer (it’s self-service, so you have to go to the counter).

Interesting to note: The beer garden serves a different kind of beer each day on a rotating basis. There is a sign above the counter which tells you which brewery is being served on that particular day)

14. Theatinerkirche & Odeonsplatz

There is a third major square in Munich you cannot miss: Odeonsplatz. Most tourist guides will tell you the story about how the Feldherrnhalle is the place where Adolf Hitler failed in his first putsch . While we should never forget the grizzly parts of our past, I urge you to focus on the beautiful Theatiner church instead. To me, it’s the most beautiful church in Munich.

Why? Well, while all the other churches got either purged of their baroque splendor or are Bavarian fantasy kitsch, this one is pure elegance. The impressive stucco works inside are definitely baroque, but as the interiors are all white, it’s a sort of timeless beauty hard to escape.

Insider tip: Every Sunday morning they celebrate a Latin high mass accompanied by a classic church concerto and choir. Find out more here .

15. Day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle

Munich is a beautiful city, but you should definitely consider doing at least one day trip. There are around 50 (I am not even joking!) beautiful UNESCO World Heritage sites, landmarks, and national parks close-by, but most tourists will probably want to see Neuschwanstein Castle. This is the castle that inspired Disney’s Sleeping beauty castle , and it is a true must-see.

It takes about 2 hours to get there by train , but you can also book a guided bus tour which I actually recommend. It is the only way you can ensure to get tickets to go inside, otherwise you have to try to book it via the official website at least 2 days in advance using a weird pdf form. Schloss Neuschwanstein is the last castle King Ludwig II built during his short lifetime, but certainly not the last. Linderhof palace or Herrenchiemsee are just as beautiful.

Note: Please be aware that the most beautiful viewpoint (i.e the Marienbrücke) might be closed in winter. There is another castle, Hohenschwangau Castle, right next to it, you could also visit!

16. Alter Peter

The Church of St. Peter is the oldest church in Munich and was probably founded around 1225 AD. You’ll find it about 50 meters away from Marienplatz. It’s a prime example of late bavarian baroque, and you’ll find a marvelous fresco on the ceiling and a beautiful high altar made, so it seems, from pure silver and gold.

The clock tower, called “old Pete” among locals, is one of the most spectacular things to see in Munich. The platform at the top is around 80 meters high and from here you can see the whole inner city . Whether it’s the neogothic city hall, the old city hall or the Church of our Lady – you can breathe it in from the lofty heights. And don’t be afraid – there is a cage around the platform, so even people suffering from vertigo will feel reasonably safe.

Note: There is no elevator and you have to climb all the way to the top. The tower in the city hall does have an elevator so it might be the better choice for physically impaired people.

17. Deutsche Museum

The Deutsche Museum (‘The German Museum’) is the most visited museum in Germany . You might picture cabinets full of dusty books and pictures, but it is in fact a technical museum. Astronomy, geology, physics, chemistry, mathematics, aviation – you’ll find a huge section for nearly every part of the technology that defines our modern life.

Most of the exhibitions are very interactive (with lots of buttons to press for kids), video installations, and even a planetarium at the very top. But it’s also one gigantic complex covering the biggest island on the river Isar in the city center. You probably need a full day to see it all. So, either bring a lot of time or focus on only two or three sections.

18. Friedensengel & Art Nouveau houses

Did you know that there are way over a hundred beautiful Art Nouveau houses in Munich ? Most Munich travel guides don’t even mention this fascinating part of my hometown, yet it’s certainly nothing you should miss. The famous Friedensengel marks the beginning of this movement, but certainly not its end. You can easily go on a fantastic free walking tour through either Bogenhausen (start at Prinzregentenplatz) or in Schwabingen (Ainmillerstrasse) and explore the many Art Nouveau city villas and mansions there.

The Müller’sche Volksbad is a prime example of the Jugendstil and you can actually still go swimming inside. If you got the time, you should definitely tour the historic rooms inside the Villa Stuck (actually a fantastic contemporary art museum) if you are a big fan of this period. The Bavarian National Museum also has a section dedicated to Art Nouveau, and so does the Pinakothek der Moderne.

19. Cuvilliés Theatre

Munich has a very active theater culture. The Bavarian State Opera actually counts among the top 10 opera houses in the world , so you should definitely consider seeing a performance (no worries, there are English subtitles). If you are reasonably fluent in German, you could also check out one of the twenty-odd theatres in Munich. My favorite is the Residenztheater.

Even if opera or theater is not your thing, you should definitely make time to tour the fantastic Cuvilliés Theatre inside the Munich Residence Palace. It’s not part of the standard tour and you need an extra ticket for it. But again, it’s so worth it. The rococo style theather is one of the very few surviving historic court theaters from this period , and one of Munich’s hidden gems.

20. Asamkirche

The last item on this list of places to see in Munich might just be the best: The tiny Asamkirche is barely 8 meters wide and 22 long. Walking past it in the pedestrian area, you might not even notice it as it is nestled in between two regular houses. The baroque masterpiece built by Cosmas Damian Asam and Qgid Quirin Asam, was originally meant as a private church. But after protests from the citizens, it was opened to the public.

The two brothers were famous for their frescos and stucco work, and they defined the Bavarian late baroque like no other artists. The Asamkirche counts among their most important and beautiful work . Every inch is covered with gold, silver, and (fake) marble.

[Bonus] Oktoberfest

If you are visiting Munich in the last weeks of September, you could attend the world-famous Oktoberfest. The biggest folk festival in the world started in October 1810, but the Bavarians soon moved it to September, as the weather is more favorable then. While there are certainly a lot of tourists, it’s particularly popular among locals. There are even special days for kids, so it really is a place for the whole family.

You should know, however, that is not the only festival in Munich . There are the winter and summer Tollwood and the Spring Festival (Frühlingsfest), and of course the famous Kocherlball. Why do I mention these? Hotel prices are insane during Oktoberfest – often three times the normal costs. Yes, it’s fun as hell, but you also have to pay for it.

Other things to do in Munich

I tried to limit this list to the highlights and top tourist attractions in Munich you simply have to see. But don’t believe for a second, that it’s all there is to see. In fact, I could easily add another 20 points of interest in Munich alone (like the amazing Bavaria Statue ) – and that does not account for all the beautiful day trips.

The Dachau Concentration camp instantly comes to mind ( read my guide here ) – quite the grizzly site, but one of such historic significance. There is also a Nazi Documentation Center museum in the middle of the city if that part of our darkest history interests you. You could even go on a Third Reich walking tour. Other wonderful museums you could visit are the Kunsthalle München, the Haus der Kunst, or the Egyptian Museum.

Then there are three other castles within the city limits : Alter Hof, Schleissheim Palace and Blutenburg you might want to check out. And of course, there are quite a lot of wonderful churches to check out. Fürstenfeld Abbey should be at the top of your list, but there are actually two stellar churches in the pedestrian area: St. Michael’s Church and the Bürgersaalkirche.

M unich also has a very lovely zoo , a safari park (Wildpark Poing), and a Sealife aquarium, if that is something you are interested in. Or you could watch a soccer match with FC Bayern München at the Allianz Arena. There are also quite a couple of walking tours available: Like Third Reich tour, or a medieval midnight tour. The sheer diversity is why I’d recommend visiting Munich and not Berlin if time is short.

Try to stay at least 3 days in Munich , so you got enough time to see the most important highlights ( check out different itinerary options here ). Do know, however, that München could easily occupy you for a month or more. Also, I heard some people being concerned about their safety. Munich is very safe . In fact, the safest city in Germany, so no need to worry.

Best time to visit Munich

The best time to visit Munich is probably September . Favorable weather and the Oktoberfest make it ideal for first-timers. Other than that, Munich will be beautiful all year round. There are beautiful Christmas markets in December, July and August are the best months to play your day trips, while January to March will often transform my hometown into a winter wonderland.

Summer, Oktoberfest, and December are usually the most crowded and most expensive times to visit , which is why I’d recommend you to come in June. You should know that Munich is also quite popular among German tourists, and you will want to arrive before the summer holidays start in July.

If you just want to visit the city itself, it basically does not matter when you visit. The weather only starts to be a relevant factor if you plan day trips to Regensburg, Salzburg, Bamberg, or Neuschwanstein Castle. As a rule of thumb, weekends are usually a lot busier (lots of local day tourists) than weekdays. Just try to avoid Mondays , as this is when most museums are closed.

So, this was my detailed guide to the best things to do in Munich. I hope I was able to give you a good overview. Feel free to ask any questions in the comments below

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The Best Things to Do in Munich, From River Surfing to Fine Art Museums

By Charlie Hobbs

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Munich, the German city with a population of 1.4 million, is not Berlin ; nor does it want to be. The Bavarian capital is one that often feels more like a charming cluster of cobblestoned towns—in fact, its cozy sprawl has earned it the nickname “Millionendorf”, or, “The Village of a Million People.” Oktoberfest, the beer festival that runs from late September to early October and which draws masses of (largely lederhosen-clad, American, and college-aged) tourists—but locals too—is perhaps Munich's most (in)famous offering. As a boy Einstein himself, who grew up down the road, helped his father wire the first electricity to an Oktoberfest tent in the massive field it occurs—take this as your first indication that there's also innovation bubbling in the city year-round. In fact, it's well worth a visit they when drinking for sport is just one of many pastimes; a plethora of art galleries, fine dining, museums, bike routes, and verdant gardens await.

Munich has the best Bavarian cuisine just about anywhere (come in the spring for the seasonal white asparagus), a vast and verdant English Garden (it's larger than Central Park, and positively pastoral despite its urban setting) and a nightlife scene distinct from its northern neighbor. There's the aforementioned tech and industry bringing an artful edge to the city's outskirts in contract to the classical center. The many museums are unmatched—with one such entry, the Lenbachhaus, houses Maria Franck-Marc's aptly titled Tanzende Schafe , or Dancing Sheep . One of my favorites, done in gouache, chalk, watercolor, and pencil; sheep dance against a gray-green industrial background—mostly in pairs, balancing upright on each other's shoulders, their front legs crossing like matchsticks. It's this easy contentment and simple serenity, that I felt in Munich; dancing like those sheep from one beautiful sight to the next.

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The Eisbach wave is a manmade entry point to the park’s Eisbach River where surfers shred year-round.

The best things to do in Munich: museums, history, and gardens

The aforementioned Kunstareal museum district is a great place to start. The northwest neighborhood houses eight major museums (and plenty of galleries), all of them excellent and easy to choose between if you have limited time and decided interests. The Big Three Pinakothek (meaning “picture gallery,” from the Latin “pinacotheca”) flank two blocks of Theresienstraße like great houses: Alte Pinakothek is the joint of this L-shape—Alte means “old,” and the applications are twofold; this is one of the oldest galleries in Germany, having opened in 1836 and housing art from the fourteenth to nineteenth centuries, and its walls largely showcase the works of the Old Masters. (One could kill hours staring into the depths of each Peter Paul Rubens hanging in the dedicated Rubens Hall.) Go straight to the Pinakothek der Moderne , and take in four mediums under one roof: art, graphics, architecture, and design (Die Neue Sammlung, or the Design Museum, is particularly excellent). There's also the Neue–which, unfortunately, is closed to the public through 2029 due to renovations. 

Once you’ve had your fill, stroll on over to the Lenbachhaus to see the dancing sheep: Franck-Marc’s work hangs alongside those of her husband, the prolific Franz Marc (his  Blue Horse I is a strong second, in terms of animal portrayals within these walls). The Marcs’ compatriots—Kandinsky, Münter, Kawlensky, and more—can also be found here. Lastly, check out Museum Brandhorst —eye-catching for its stunning ceramic facade, and just as much so for its massive collection of Cy Twombly canvases. 

The inner courtyard of the temple-style sculpture museum Glyptothek holds the most worthwhile of the museum cafés—ivy covers the walls of the structure, and visitors can relax beneath umbrella-clad tables on what feels like sacred ground. In the summer, theatre troupes put up productions in the tranquil space. 

To acknowledge the area's important history, the Munich Documentation Centre for the History of National Socialism offers a thorough (and free) journey through Munich’s history as a major hub of Nazi Germany, with each floor taking on a different decade and detailing Munich's citizens various roles in what was once a fascist stronghold. In the center of town, admire the beauty of the Ohel Jakob synagogue before visiting the adjacent Jewish Museum Munich to learn about the city's Jewish community up to present day.

Outdoor escapes and cultural spots

Munich has plenty of outdoor activities in store. Find your way onto a bicycle–any hotel worth its salt here will have some to loan out—and head to the water. It's safer along the Isar River (Munich is known for its cycling collisions), where you can fly with great abandon from the technology museum sector—a small island where the highlight is the Deutsches Museum —to the art nouveau public swimming pool and spa Müller’sches Volksbad , and from there up north and back into the city to reach the mouth of the English Garden. There surges the Eisbach wave, a manmade entry point for the park’s Eisbach River where you’ll find surfers shredding year-round. If you can bear to rip your eyes from their feats after however long, wander deeper into the park and find Munich’s second largest biergarten Chinesicher Turm (so-called for its odd, towering Chinese pagoda), as well as the hilltop temple Monopteros, the loveliest spot in town on a sunny day. 

The coolest place to hang out in Munich is Schlachthofviertel , the meatpacking district. This is an active slaughter zone—expect a slight smell—that has as of late gained a reputation as being the coolest place to dine in the city. Before you eat, take in a show at the newly headquarters of the Münchner Volkstheater (the artistic director of which is famous for his work on the Oberammergau Passion Play at the turn of the past two decades) or wander around the Bahnwärter Thie l, a cultural center with great shopping and artisan studios and a vast indoor-outdoor nightclub open in the summer months with a vast amount of seating available throughout.  Graffiti is legal here, and you can kill an hour or two just watching the artists at work—over piles of empty spray-paint cans, gathered in towering mesh enclosures, they are sculptures in and of themselves.

Outdoors at Alte Utting, a ferry that's been transplanted to a disused railway bridge and transformed into one of the city's best bars.

In addition to full bar service, Alte Utting has several food stands offering pizza and more.

Where to eat in Munich

In Werksviertel-Mitte, dine on seafood at a sexy little red restaurant called  Atlantik Fisch —the compact brick building abuts the slaughterhouse and transforms into a minor disco at the weekend. It sounds a bit brutal, but this is where, it seems, everything cool is happening. Right across the street, Wirtshaus im Schlachthof is a classic Bavarian beer hall famous for its live music and comedy shows. A 10-minute stroll will lead you from these spots to Alte Utting . Once a ferry boat beloved for cruising a nearby Bavarian lake in the summertime, the MSS Utting was transplanted upon its retirement to a disused railway bridge by a pair of brothers and turned into one of Munich’s finest bars. Here, you’d do well to enjoy a Hugo in their wood-clad cabin to the tune of live music—there’s also a bevy of food stands serving up everything from pizza to Indian in the land-locked garden annex. 

Laura Kiniry

Stacey Lastoe

Jemima Sissons

Back in the center of the city, the best Bavarian fine dining in the Michelin Guide can be found at Pfistermühle —dine on salted cod and tenderest veal beneath the vaulted ceiling of this 16th-century mill, or sitting outside on the picturesque cobblestone street. Nearby,  Zum Dürnbräu is a more casual option for classic Bavarian dishes (the succulent duck is not to be missed). Other major mainstays for fine dining include Little London grill for your good German steaks and Brenner Grill , a vast open grill that feels ripped from the ‘90s (positive!) for its vast dining room and see-and-be-seen professional air. 

I’d be remiss not to mention the Viktualienmarkt , a bustling daily food market just off Marienplatz with stalls upon stalls of local produce and food made from that produce and biergartens in which you are encouraged to eat that food alongside a nice cold beer. The highlight stall here is Caspar Plautz , which has a sweet origin story. The market is zoned into little neighborhoods, and each neighborhood honors within its bounds a no-compete agreement—there will be no stand that sells the same produce. In Caspar Plautz’s case, the only ware not already on sale was the humble potato. Not to be discouraged, the enterprising duo who sought to open a market stand of their very own took the potato and ran with it—here, you can buy seasonal potato-of-the-week dishes (past examples include the Papa Pataca, featuring mashed topinambur topped with creme fraiche, roasted shiitake, and capers, and a baked potato stuffed with feta cream, cucumber, and cilantro) so long as you’re willing to brave an ever-growing line of fans.

The living room of the Mandarin Oriental, Munich's one-bedroom Panoramic Suite, located on the hotel's six floor.

Where to stay

Munich’s hotel scene is diverse and accommodating of a variety of price points. In the realm of the four-star, Platzl Hotel would be the traditional choice. Warm wood interiors extend from the lobby paneling to the rooms’ built-in closets—it’s sleek and home-y at the same time, very comfortable but in a dynamite location. Spread across the city are the Cocoon hotels— Hauptbahnhof , Stachus , and Sendlinger Tor , the latter being between central Marienplatz and Werksviertel-Mitte in the young, student-forward neighborhood of the same name. These are extraordinarily clean and stylish options for the budget traveler—you’ll find young couples, solo travelers, businessmen, even families enjoying the fabulous hotel breakfast.

Of the usual luxury suspects, there are many to choose from. The Mandarin Oriental, Munich has the sexiest cocktail bar in town in the form of Orly, bright airy rooms, and a roof garden for summertime mahjong. The 300-room Hotel Bayerischer Hof is a proper, old-school Grande Dame, and The Charles Hotel, a Rocco Forte Hotel is a beloved contemporary white sculptural outpost on the edge of the Botanical Garden. Also, keep an eye out for the Rosewood Munich opening in town in late 2023. 

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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.

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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…

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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)…

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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…

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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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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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Munich Travel Guide: Best Attractions & Top Things to Do

Hello pretty Munich! It’s hard to believe it took this long until we finally saw you with our own eyes. But when we did, we did it properly. We explored Munich for five days from morning until evening and we can already reveal: This supposedly exclusively chic city surprised us by presenting itself as relaxing and cosy.

In this travel guide we let you in on our personal tips for your city trip to Munich (Germany). How should I spend the perfect weekend in Munich? Which sights and attractions do I need to see? Where is the best viewpoint of Munich? Where should I eat and drink? We have collected together all of our travel tips for you so that you can perfectly prepare for your trip. Let’s go!

1. Munich Travel Guide: Overview of initial travel tips & info

2. sights and attractions in munich: best things to do and see, 3. munich from above: tips for lovely viewpoints, 4. eating & drinking: tips for cafés and restaurants in munich, 5. our hotel tip for munich.

Posh, expensive & boring? Munich is not exactly met with the best clichés. But quite honestly: Apart from the (admittedly) high prices, we experienced Munich to be quite different from this.

Munich is a modern cosmopolitan city and Bavarian village in one. You can sip champagne cocktails on the city’s rooftop bars, and in the first pint is already poured by lunchtime in the beer garden next door. That is the nice thing about Munich: You can have both.

Munich is an astoundingly well-presented city and we felt great here right from the first moment. Some streets remind us very much of Vienna , while other corners exude an almost Italian flair. In short: Munich’s old town is a really enjoyable mix of decorative alleyways and impressive buildings . The centre is so nicely straightforward that you automatically pass by many of the attractions several times. 

And it shouldn’t go unmentioned that there is a lot of green space in Munich. For example, at the Olympic Park – in our opinion one of the most beautiful places to watch the sunset. Or the beautiful English Garden. If we lived in Munich, you would definitely find us there quite often.

How many days should I allow for a city trip to Munich?

The good news: Munich is not a large city and the centre is comparatively quite easy to navigate. In one weekend you can see many (but of course not nearly all) of the sights. Two nights (3 days) are enough to experience the main highlights in Munich.

Even so, in our opinion it’s always better to have more time. So, if you want to experience the city in a relaxed manner, then we recommend staying 3 to 4 nights in Munich. Then you can also plan one or two day trips (e.g. to Nymphenburg Palace) and soak in the city even more.

What is the best way to get from A to B in Munich?

On foot: The sights in Munich’s old town, especially, are located so close together that you can easily reach them on foot. We ended up covering most distances on foot.

By bicycle: Munich is a bike city. When the weather is good, half of Munich will jump on their bike. There are many places in the city where you can hire a bicycle. The cost for a day is around 15 euros. 

Via public transport: Some destinations (e.g. Nymphenburg Palace or Olympic Park) are located outside of the city, so you’ll need to use public transport. There are numerous subway, tram and bus lines. You can quite easily purchase a ticket from a machine at most of the larger stations. Our tip: We downloaded the app “Münchner-Verkehrsgesellschaft” (MVG) before our trip, which made it easy to navigate from A to B.

Marienplatz & New Town Hall

The best place to start your stay in Munich is in the heart of the city at Marienplatz (Mary’s Square). Marienplatz is the central square in downtown Munich. There is no way to get around it, so to speak.

Marienplatz features one of the most imposing buildings in Munich, the New Town Hall (the “Neue Rathaus” in German). This magnificent new-gothic building is truly an eye-catcher. The famous glockenspiel can be heard daily at 11am, 12 noon and from March until October at 5pm. Then 32 life-size figures begin to rotate up on the tower of the town hall.

Undoubtedly the best view of the New Town Hall can be enjoyed from “Old Peter” , as the St. Peter’s church is affectionately named. The viewpoint is one of the most well known in all of Munich.

Our tip: Not as spectacular, but definitely an insider tip, is the view from the fourth floor of the department store Ludwig Beck. Here you will find Café Monaco. If you sit at a table at the front, you can enjoy a fantastic view of the town hall.

Viktualienmarkt

Hello foodie-dream! This market is one of our favourite spots in Munich. It can be found just a stone’s throw away from Marienplatz and is an absolute paradise for food connoisseurs and gourmet lovers.

At Munich’s Viktualienmarkt you can find fruit, vegetables, cheese, freshly squeezed juices and many regional delicacies . The Viktualienmarkt is open daily, apart from Sundays, from 8am until 10pm at the latest. We recommend stopping by before noon.

Our tips for the Viktualienmarkt stalls

Kaffeerösterei Viktualienmarkt: Caffeine junkie? Then get yourself to the coffee roastery, Kaffeerösterei Viktualienmarkt. The coffee here tastes incredible and can also be made with oat milk if you like.

Caspar Plautz: You can find delicious, and sometimes somewhat extravagant baked potatoes here at Caspar Plautz. The perfect place for a midday snack!

Karnoll: Here they make what are supposedly the best pretzels in all of Munich. We cannot verify this, but they were definitely very tasty.  

Munich Residenz

Would you like a decent portion of posh and pomp ? Then you can’t go past the Munich Residenz (residence). From the outside it is hard to imagine the wonderfully imposing rooms that are contained inside the Residenz.

The Residenz is divided into multiple areas , which can be viewed separately from one another. First of all, there is the Munich Residence Museum where you can wander through the approximately 130 living rooms, bedrooms, and banquet rooms of the Bavarian rulers of the time.

The oldest preserved room in the Munich Residenz is also one of the most impressive: the so-called Antiquarium. This magnificent renaissance hall awaits you right at the start of your tour.

Aside from the Residence Museum, the Residenz also houses the treasury (with around 1,500 exhibits) and the Cuvilliés Theater . We ourselves decided to ‘only’ visit the Residence Museum and found that to be more than enough in terms of time. We would recommend you allow at least two hours. Audio guides are provided free of charge. 

Hofgarten Munich

Directly behind the Munich Residenz you come to the adjoining Hofgarten (court garden). In case you want to take a break from sightseeing after visiting the Residenz: The Hofgarten is the place for you! You should definitely take a stroll through this baroque park on your visit to Munich.

The photogenic Hofgarten Temple is throned in the centre of the garden, also called the Dianatemple (Diana Temple) in the traditional language. But we also really liked the beautifully landscaped flower beds. Our conclusion: A wonderful, green oasis which is pleasantly calm and contemplative.

Odeonsplatz

Munich or Italy? When leaving the Hofgarten through the west entrance, you will reach the large square, Odeonsplatz. And believe us: Thanks to the roman-inspired architecture , you could almost believe you’ve landed in bella Italia.

The first thing that stands out at Odeonsplatz is the Feldherrnhalle (Field Marshal’s Hall) with its iconic three round arches and two lions. Directly beside it is the Theatinerkirche , a church in Italian late baroque style, which is also worth seeing from inside. You can experience the “dolce vita” very comfortably from the gardens of the many cafés and restaurants at Odeonsplatz. Almost like in Italy – we say yes.

English Garden

Wow, what an oasis! The English Garden is the pinnacle of all the green spaces in the centre of Munich, so to speak. It is remarkably large – or more precisely, one of the largest city parks in the world . When the weather is good, half of Munich gathers in the English Garden.

One of the most well-known spots in the English Garden (and also one of our favourite spots) is the so-called Monopteros , a Greek-style temple. From here you have a beautiful panorama view and can also see the peaks of some buildings in Munich’s old town rising up in the distance. It is especially beautiful here late in the afternoon when the sinking sun slowly bathes the greenery in a magical light.

The Chinese Tower is another popular destination. It is not so much the tower that attracts people here but more so the beer garden right beside it. The beer garden next to the Chinese Tower is the largest in the English Garden and the second largest in all of Munich.

Eisbach Wave

A surf wave in the middle of Munich ? Sounds strange, but it’s true. The Eisbach wave at the southern end of the English Garden is surfed year-round. We can promise you one thing: When you start watching the surfers on the Eisbach wave, it’s hard to stop. What a spectacle !

If you want to stop by, then we recommend taking a visit to Fräulein Grüneis near the Eisbach wave. This converted toilet block is one of the most popular meeting points in all of Munich. At lunchtime they serve various dishes of the day, with snacks and cake in between times. Highly recommend!

Nymphenburg Palace

Once the summer residence of the Bavarian rulers – today it is probably Munich’s most beautiful palace outside of the city centre. What Schönbrunn Palace is in Vienna, the Nymphenburg Palace is in Munich. Or to put it another way: Anyone who wants to see the classic sights of Munich should definitely pay a visit to Nymphenburg Palace.

Nymphenburg Palace is located west of Munich about half an hour away from the city centre via public transport. It is surrounded by a gigantic, beautifully landscaped palace park . Water canals, romantic pathways, smaller hidden castles in the park – you almost need to spend an entire day here just to admire the palace park in all its magnificence.

You can also take a tour of the palace itself – we ourselves ‘only’ explored the palace park due to time. Our tip: It is particularly beautiful here at sunset when the setting sun bathes the palace in a beautiful light.

Werksviertel-Mitte

Hip, urban and somewhat different – welcome to Werksviertel-Mitte. Nearby Munich’s eastern train station you will find what is probably the most exciting urban development project in all of Munich.

Here in this precinct where Pfanni potato dumplings were once produced, you will now find an interesting mix of loft offices, studios, apartments, restaurants, bars and loads of street art. Quite strangely: The Werksviertel also has a flock of sheep that graze on the rooftop of plant no. 3. You can catch sight of the sheep when you take a ride on the ferris wheel (called “Umadum”).

The Olympic Park & Olympiaberg

In the Olympic Park you can find one of the (in our opinion) most beautiful sunset-spots , more precisely at the ‘peak’ of Olympiaberg. In case you are now thinking about the Olympic games, then you are spot on. It is here where the Olympic games took place in 1972.

The highest point in the Olympic Park is Olympiaberg . From up here you have one of the loveliest panorama views over the Olympic village with Lake Olympia in the foreground. When the weather is good, many Munich locals gather up here in the late afternoon to admire the sunset. Add a drink and a picnic blanket that you brought with you – there is hardly a more relaxed day to round off a day in Munich.

You can walk to Olympiaberg in around 20 minutes from the nearest underground station, Olympiazentrum . Don’t worry: The walk up is not so significant.

Our tip: If you are already in the area, then we recommend you also visit the Olympic Tower beforehand. From this viewing platform you can enjoy a fabulous 360-degree view. We let you know more about this viewpoint further down in this travel guide.

Munich beer garden

What was that, a beer garden as an attraction? Let’s put it this way: There is hardly any city other than Munich where we would let that be so. However, the Munich’s beer garden is world famous . If you’re a guest in Munich, you aren’t allowed to leave without having visited the beer garden. Unwritten rule.

There are more beer gardens Munich than you could ever visit. And it feels as though every Munich local has her or his favourite. Therefore, we have put together an overview of the most talked about recommendations and tips for you:

Augustiner-Keller on Arnulfstraße: Just a stone’s throw away from the Hauptbahnhof (the main train station) you will come to this large beer garden. Here you are comfortably seated at a large wooden table under chestnut trees. There is a table service and a self-service area. We really enjoyed the food here!

Hofbräukeller at Wiener Platz: This beer garden is part of the legendary Hofbräuhaus, but is located a little outside of the old town at Wiener Platz. You also sit under chestnut trees here. Just as highly recommended!

Biergarten at the Chinese Tower: This beer garden is the second largest in Munich. It draws in many tourists, but the locals also spend their lunchtimes here or come by after work.

Olympic Tower

Here we go with a superlative. The Olympic Tower is by far the highest building in Munich . It stretches almost 300 metres into the sky. An elevator brings you up to the top within 30 seconds. Anyone who wants to view Munich from the birds-eye-view is in the right place here.

Small downside: The TV Tower is located in the Olympic Park, so it’s outside of the city centre . Therefore, downtown Munich and its iconic buildings are only viewable from a distance. However, you do have a distant view of the alps. We can imagine that you could capture fantastic images with the appropriate lens.

The most beautiful and easily most spectacular viewing platform is also the highest at 192 metres. Here they don’t have an annoying fence or glass window, so you can enjoy the view completely uninterrupted – wow! The trip up currently costs (in March 2022) 11 euros per person.

Rooftop Bar in Mandarin Oriental

WOW! We aren’t lying when we say that the view of Munich from the rooftop of Mandarin Oriental went above and beyond our expectations. If you are searching for the perfect sunset spot in downtown Munich: it’s here!

The rooftop bar called “Mahjong Roof Garden” is located up in the air on the rooftop terrace of the luxury hotel, Mandarin Oriental. From up here you can enjoy a sensational view out in all directions.

The ambience is stylish but less posh than thought. The cocktails taste double as goof between the palms, lounge chairs and the rooftop pool . However, the prices are (as you would expect) high (a cocktails costs a good 15 euros), but you can happily lay a little more money down for such a great experience.

Our tip: We definitely recommend making a reservation . The bar is particularly popular at sunset (and rightfully so).

Rooftop Bar in Hotel Bayerischer Hof

Would you like to have a drink with a spectacular view of the Frauenkirche ? Then perhaps the rooftop bar “Blue Spa” on the roof of the luxury hotel, the Bayerischer Hof, is something for you.

The ambience is exclusive – definitely not something for ever day but you can let yourself indulge in the luxury of a drink. The service is very courteous. Even though we didn’t have a reservation, with some luck we still managed to get a nice spot. But it is best to book at table in advance.

Café in the Vorhölzer Forum on the TU roof

Easily the most relaxing rooftop bar on our list is located on the roof of the Technical University, more precisely in the so-called Vorhölzer Forum. The adjoining café is quite an insider tip . Most of the people there are students who spend their study breaks here.

The view is not as spectacular as the other rooftop bars (the inner city is quite far away) but the ambience is very casual and relaxing. Ideal for a relaxing beer at the end of the day!

Our tip: The café is rather hidden and the way there is hardly signposted. It is best to take the elevator to the top floor and ask around when you get there.

Additional great viewpoints in Munich

Two very famous viewpoints in Munich were unfortunately closed when we visited. But because they belong on the Munich list, we don’t want to leave them unmentioned. We’ll be saving them for next time!

Old Peter: From St. Peter’s church tower – affectionately called “Old Peter” by the locals – you can enjoy a fabulous view of the New Town Hall and the Frauenkirche. There is barely any other view in Munich that is more iconic than this one.

Town Hall Tower: The view from the town hall tower is said to be just as magnificent. Here you get a view out in all directions from a height of 85 metres.

Vegan & sustainable in Munich

Emmi’s Kitchen: What a likeable eatery! In Emmi’s Kitchen they serve various breakfast and lunch foods such as bowls, burgers and cakes – all vegan and all delicious! They now have two branches: We visited the eatery in the Glockenbach district. The beautiful green inner courtyard is an oasis – highly recommend!

Soy Vegan: Vietnamese and also vegan? You don’t need to tell us twice. The fried glass noodles were outstanding. Romeo’s curry could have done with a little more seasoning. But altogether definitely worth a visit. We also loved their stylish ambience.

Max Pett: Probably the most well-known vegan restaurant in all of Munich didn’t have us completely convinced, personally. (In our opinion, we could have got a lot more out of both of our dishes.) Nevertheless, we can recommend it. It’s very nice to sit in the garden in front of the restaurant. The atmosphere inside was not for us.

Über den Tellerrand: Very highly recommend! This hidden gem is jointly run by refugees and locals. The menu includes three prices: a low one for those in need, a middle price that covers costs and a generous one that includes a donation. Aside from us finding that to be a brilliant concept, we also found their food to be excellent.   

Traditional Bavarian food in Munich

Xaver’s: Looking for a creative tavern with a rustic-modern atmosphere? Then we can highly recommend Xaver’s to you. They serve fantastic käsespätzle here. They also have vegan meals on request. Add a good beer and extremely courteous staff on top of that – what more could you want?

Augustiner-Keller: There are just as many beer gardens in Munich as there is sand on the beach. One of the most popular is Augustiner-Keller, close to the main train station. Here you are seated under the chestnut trees. Highly recommend!

Hip cafés & bars in Munich

Man versus Machine: Caffeine junkie? Then you should swing by one of the two branches of the hipster café, Man Versus Machine. Here they serve fantastic coffee specials – also with oat milk when you wish. Yummy!

Gans Woanders: It looks like an enchanted witch’s house, but it’s one of the most hip and greatest spots in all of Munich. In Gans Woanders families meet for an afternoon coffee, couples meet on dates and friends meet for catch-ups. The atmosphere is casual, relaxed and cosy – almost like home.

Alte Utting: A bar located on a ship on an old railway bridge? Sounds strange, but it’s true. The Alte Utting is one of the most popular meeting points for locals. An unusual location on the outskirts of downtown.

Are you searching for suitable accommodation for your city trip to Munich? Then we have a special tip for you. We stayed at a lovely 25hours hotel The Royal Bavarian , which we can highly recommend .

This hip boutique hotel is easily one of the hippest in all of Munich. The design is youthful, creative and rather quirky – just out taste! Our room (category “extra-large”) was relaxingly large and extremely comfortably furnished. The beds are a dream: so relaxing!

The breakfast is fantastic! It is served within the restaurant NENI, which belongs to the hotel and is also definitely worth a visit in the evening. No wish is left unfulfilled at breakfast. We really celebrated every morning.

The only downfall in our opinion is also a positive at the same time: The hotel is located within walking distance of the main train station – perfect for anyone arriving by train. Because of this, the hotel is situated at a large intersection and the traffic (especially the trams) can be softly heard in some rooms. It didn’t bother us personally. It also means that you have great public transport connections and you can reach the city centre (Marianplatz) on foot in around 15 minutes.

Our conclusion: Great atmosphere, comfortable rooms and exceptional design – simply a great feeling! Not to mention, the staff are extremely accommodating. We wouldn’t hesitate for a second and stay here again anytime.

You can book the hotel here: 25hours hotel The Royal Bavarian

Disclaimer: Advertisement & Affiliate Links

This travel guide was created in cooperation with the German National Tourism Board, Munich Tourism and Woman Magazine. Many thanks for the great trip to Munich! This blog article contains our personal recommendations in the form of affiliate links. If you book or buy something through the links, we receive a small commission. This does not change the price for you at all. A million thanks from the both of us!

Now tell us: Have you already been to Munich? How did you like the city? Do you have some more recommendations you would like to share? We look forward to hearing your recommendations and additional tips!

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20 Top Tourist Attractions in Munich

Munich is a glorious city that shrugs off the coldness and sternness of buildings that are so prevalent elsewhere in Germany. Sure, it has a few of these buildings, but in the old city visitors will find attractive historic buildings and monuments. Munich has a good public transportation system (bus and subway) that makes it convenient to move around the city.

Munich makes a good base for day trips to outlying areas, such as the Nazi concentration camp at Dachau or scenic Salzburg , but there is plenty to keep visitors in the city too. Here’s a look at the top tourist attractions in Munich :

Map of Munich

20. Hofgarten

Located between the famed Residenz and the Englischer Garten is the Hofgarten, a beautiful garden built at the beginning of the 17th century in the style of an Italian Renaissance garden. The Hofgarten is open to the public from dawn to dusk, and it is the perfect spot for a stroll.

Check out the gazebo in the center of the garden, or just admire the beautifully manicured gardens. Many visitors grab some food and enjoy a picnic in the Hofgarten, and there are plenty of benches throughout the area where you can sit, rest and enjoy the view.

19. Pinakothek der Moderne

There are three major art museums in Munich that combine to create what is known as the Kunstareal in the area of Maxvorstadt. The newest is the Pinakothek der Moderne. This is where you’ll find the best contemporary art in the city, and arguably even in all of Europe.

The building that houses the collection is a strikingly modern structure built in the International Style. The Pinakothek der Moderne is divided into four sections, each of which is devoted to either art, architecture, design or works on paper.

Some of the most noteworthy artists whose works are on display include Andy Warhol, Salvador Dalí and Pablo Picasso.

18. Olympiapark

The 1972 Olympic Games were held in Munich, and many of the venues created for the event are located in what is now known as the Olympiapark. Munich is recognized globally for its success in turning the Olympic venues into spaces that continue to be used and generate income for the city.

If you’re visiting Munich, you might watch a concert or attend a festival in the Olympic Stadium. At the Olympic Lake, you can rent a boat and paddle around. If you want to soak in the views of the Olympiapark, grab a meal at the revolving restaurant at the top of the Olympic Tower.

17. St. Peter’s Church

Peterskirche, or St. Peter’s Church, is a Catholic church located in Munich’s city center, or Altstadt. St. Peter’s Church was started in the 12th century and is the city’s oldest church, although fires and lighting strikes have damaged part of the structure over the centuries.

The Romanesque-style church hosts services several times each day, and it’s well worth attending one to admire the interior of the building. You can also climb Alte Peter, a tower accessible via more than 300 steps. The climb is worth the effort, however, because you’ll get a stunning view over Munich from the top.

16. Allianz Arena Stadium

Sports fans who’ve ever wondered if football (soccer) is popular in Munich need only visit Allianz Arena Stadium, which seats more than 75,000 spectators who want to see one of the city’s two teams take the field.

The stadium replaced the city’s Olympic stadium beginning with the 2005-2006 season. The stadium, which hosted the World Cup finals in 2006, is known for its panels that change colors, depending on which team is playing and the type of match, i.e., local or national, being played.

15. New Pinakothek

The second art museum in the Kunstareal is the New Pinakothek. Here, you’ll find an impressive collection of impressionist and expressionist art dating from the 19th and 20th centuries. The collection is housed in a relatively new postmodern building that was constructed in 1981.

The New Pinakothek is the place to go if you’re drawn to works by painters such as Francisco de Goya, John Constable, Eugène Delacroix or Claude Monet. There are also several interesting sculptures on display like the Crouching Woman by Auguste Rodin.

14. Eisbach Wave

The Eisbach Wave is one of the more unexpected attractions located in the heart of Munich. It’s part of the Eisbach River, a man-made body of water that is just over a mile long. The Eisbach River flows through the Englischer Garten.

At one point in the river, there is a standing wave that is just three feet high. It is here that city dwellers have the chance to go surfing or even kayaking right in the heart of Munich.

It is common to see visitors standing next to the Eisbach Wave and watching surfers try to maintain their balance on the wave for as long as possible.

13. Odeonsplatz

If you’re planning to spend any time in the Altstadt, then you’ll want to visit the Odeonsplatz. This central plaza is a major landmark in the city, and it is packed with interesting and historically significant attractions.

Both Ludwigstraße and Briennerstraße, two major thoroughfares through Munich, begin at the Odeonsplatz. The plaza is also home to the Theatinerkirche, a beautiful Italian-Baroque church, and the Field Marshals’ Hall, also known as the Feldherrnhalle.

The highlight of the Odeonsplatz is the Residenz, a palace that is now open to the public and home to a collection of royal jewels, crowns and family portraits.

12. Asam Church

Asamkirche was built in the middle of the 18th century by brothers Egid Quirin Asam and Cosmas Damian Asam. Egid Quirin was the architect and sculptor, and Cosmas Damian painted the frescoes.

Built in the late Baroque style, this beautiful church was intended to be a private place of worship for the brothers. Due to public unrest, however, it was opened to the residents of the city.

The Asam Church can be toured, and make sure you look up to admire the stunning works of art on the ceiling. If you’re in Munich over the holiday season, the Christmas Eve service at Asam Church is a memorable experience, since the church looks especially beautiful in candlelight.

11. Neues Rathaus

If you’re a fan of architecture, then don’t miss a chance to see the Neues Rathaus in Munich. The New City Hall was built in the neo-Gothic style, and it is a major attraction in the Marienplatz. The building is enormous and boasts six courtyards, a beautiful spiral staircase and plenty of stained glass windows.

Many people come to see the Neues Rathaus just for its clock, which has 43 bells and goes off three times each day. Carved figures emerge from the Glockenspiel and revolve around the clock in time with the bells, and it’s well worth seeing for yourself in person.

10. Viktualienmarkt

Next to the Marienplatz in the city center of Munich is the Viktualienmarkt, a large outdoor market with generations of history. Many of the vendors at the market have a family history at the Viktualienmarkt, making it a longstanding tradition to shop there.

Many locals head to the market on the way to or from work and pick up fresh produce. You can also find some homemade baked goods, premade soups, nuts and herbs for sale.

It’s a popular place for foodies, because many of the items for sale are upscale, gourmet or otherwise exotic ingredients. You’ll also find a few restaurants and a biergarten where you can stay for a drink or two.

9. Alte Pinakothek

The third of the Kunstareal art museums in Munich is the Alte Pinakothek. This is one of the oldest art galleries in the world, and it is a must-see destination for classical art fans.

When it was ordered built in 1826 by King Ludwig I, the Old Pinakothek was the largest museum in the world; its neo-renaissance exterior soon became the model for museums located throughout Europe. The works of art displayed in the Arte Pinakothek come from the 14th through the 18th centuries.

The most celebrated works come from the Old Masters, including artists like Rembrandt van Rijn, Frans Hals and Leonardo da Vinci. There is a heavy emphasis on German painters, so look for works by Albrecht Dürer and Matthias Grünewald, among many others.

8. Deutsches Museum

The Deutsches Museum is a world class science and technology museum that appeals to visitors of all ages, even those who profess not to be interested in such subject matter. Visitors can take free guided tours (conducted only in German though) through the museum’s 50 exhibit areas, view demonstrations on subjects ranging from electricity to musical instruments, and participate in a wide variety of hands-on activities.

The museum has a huge collection of more than 100,000 science- and technology-related objects from the Stone Age to today. The museum is family friendly, with 1,000 activities for kids 3-8 offered in Kids Kingdom.

7. Munich Residenz

The Munich Residenz was home to Bavarian rulers, the Wittelsbachs, for centuries before it was opened to the public in 1920. Its art collections and various architectural styles became symbols of the royal family’s power. The residence sustained heavy damage in World War II, but has since been restored as much as possible.

Today, it is considered one of the finest palace museums in Europe. The Wittelsbachs collected fine art and objects for centuries, so visitors will be able to see outstanding collections of porcelain, paintings, silver objects, rare furniture, chandeliers and sculptures.

6. BMW Welt & Museum

BMW is known for its fast cars and motorcycles; what better place to learn more about them than BMW Welt and the BMW museum. BMW Welt is a place to see and gain knowledge of the company’s latest product offerings.

BMW Welt also sells auxiliary accessories and parts for their vehicles, and hosts exhibitions of their latest models. It’s located near Olympic Park; park ticket holders can get a discount on BMW Welt admission.

The nearby BMW Museum has exhibits tracing the history of these famous two- and four-wheeled vehicles. Many old cars and motorcycles are on display along a spiral ramp that curls along the inside of the bowl-shaped building.

5. Nymphenburg Palace

The Nymphenburg Palace celebrates the birth of an heir to the Bavarian throne, ordered built by the parents of Maximillian II Emanuel in 1664. The palace served as the summer residence of Bavarian rulers.

When he inherited the throne, Max Emanuel significantly enlarged the palace. Today this baroque palace is one of Munich’s more popular tourist attractions, even though sections are closed to the public since it also serves as the home for the current Duke of Bavaria.

Original baroque ceilings, some with frescoes, survive to this day, as do King Ludwig I’s Galleries of Beauties that portray 36 beautiful Munich women.

4. Munich Frauenkirche

The Munich Frauenkirche is another famous Munich landmark that towers over the rest of the city. It dates back to the 15th century when it was built in an astounding 20 years’ time, though completion of some features was postponed due to lack of money.

The Munich Frauenkirche serves as the cathedral for the Archdiocese of Munich and is home to the archbishop. The Gothic cathedral is capable of holding 20,000 worshipers. The cathedral was damaged during World War II, but has been restored It is famous for its bells and as the final resting place for the Dukes of Bavaria.

3. Hofbrauhaus

Munich residents do love their beer, celebrating it annually at Oktoberfest. Travelers who won’t be here then can still sip the suds at the Hofbrauhaus, one of the oldest breweries in town.

The Hofbrauhaus dates back to 1589 when it was founded by Wilhelm V, Duke of Bavaria, when it served as the official brewery for Munich’s royalty. Even back then, the beer had an international reputation, with Swedish invaders agreeing not to sack Munich in exchange for 600,000 barrels of beer.

The brewery and the beer hall are among the most popular tourist attraction in Munich today.

2. Englischer Garten

The size of New York City’s Central Park pales in comparison to Munich’s Englischer Garten, one of the world’s largest urban parks. The park, which stretches from the city center to northeast Munich, was established in 1789, but has been enlarged over the centuries.

It takes its name from the traditional English gardens that were popular in the 18th and early 19th centuries. It was built by soldiers during times of peace to teach them agricultural skills. The garden contains a Japanese teahouse, a meadow where nude sunbathing is permitted and an artificial wave used by surfboarders.

1. Marienplatz

Marienplatz is the most famous square in Munich, drawing thousands of tourists every day who come to see the New Town Hall that dates back to 1874. The city hall was built in the Gothic Revival style, and features most of the Wittelsbach rulers on the main façade while statues of four Bavarian kings are on a lower level.

This highly ornate building is a tourist magnet in itself, but what really draws the tourists to Marienplatz is the thrice-daily performance of the Glockenspiel. The famous Ratskeller restaurant is in the basement.

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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.

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

• top attractions
• where to stay
• and much more

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 Ultimate FREE Munich Tourist Map (Things to Do, Photo Spots & More!)

Last Updated: April 5, 2024

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Looking for a Munich tourist map that covers all the main sights?

Great news! Hi – I’m Christina, a shameless travel nerd who lived in Munich for 5+ years… and has already made one of those maps so you don’t have to. WITH cute stamp icons… that are colour coded.

So yes, below, you’ll find a handy Google Map that you can use on your phone that includes…

• Top Munich sights & museums
• The prettiest photo spots and views in Munich
• Munich food & drink recommendations
• Fun shops to visit in Munich

I hope you find it helpful!

Save this Free Munich Map for Later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

My Free Munich Tourist Map

On mobile? Click this link here and the map should automatically open on your Google Maps app.

NOTE: Free sights are marked with a green background – be sure to expand the Map Legend to see the different layers and categories I’ve included!

Things to Do in Munich Video

Want a visual of the activities mentioned? Check out this video companion guide that showcases some of the best things to do in Munich for first timers.

Munich Travel Tips Video

First time in Munich? Here’s a video that explains some of the important must-knows to keep in mind before your trip.

More Munich Travel Resources

Visiting Munich? Here are some other articles you might like: 

• [START HERE] My Munich City Guide
• My Favourite Munich Fun Facts
• Munich Public Transport Guide
• Munich Oktoberfest Guide
• Munich Christmas Market Guide
• Munich Starkbierfest Guide
• Munich Frühlingsfest Guide
• Munich Hauptbhanhof Guide
• Munich Train & Bus Stations Guide
• My Best Munich Travel Tips
• 1 Day in Munich Itinerary
• 2 Days in Munich Itinerary
• 3 Days in Munich Itinerary
• Munich Restaurants Guide
• Munich to Salzburg Day Trip Guide
• Munich to Neuschwanstein Day Trip Guide
• Munich to Eagle’s Nest Day Trip Guide

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Munich Travel Guide

The Bavarian Capital is rich in world class museums and galleries and is home to hundreds of family-friendly beer gardens, many of which have playgrounds. A number of the sights can be found within the city's remaining three medieval gates making it a very walkable destination. Join the very active local population and walk or cycle your way through this enticing destination. — Laurel Robbins

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3 replies to this topic

http://www.bahn.de/en

Enter your connection, buy your tickets.

From: München Hbf

It‘s quite self explanatory but feel free to come back with specific questions if you have any.

here is a great site on trains....

http://www.seat61.com

dont know what you are thinking but you can also review the above site if you wish and maybe some questions will be answered.

I am not sure how you can be confused, unless its just the difference between tickets, which are explained on the website.... but basically, theres a Flex ticket is super expensive but completely flexible.

Theres then just 2 types of discount tickets best bought far in advance, a "sparpreis" which can be cancelled for a fee of 10 euros with refund via a voucher (so as a non resident could be useless to you) or a "super sparpreis" which cannot be cancelled under any circumstances but is a little cheaper.

Its not dissimilar to air fares, the more you pay the more flexible it is.

With "a family" you may mean you are with your granny (who will pay full price or near enough), or you are bringing kids which may or may not be free, but as mentioned above do a query on bahn.de for your specific required journey with your specific group and if anything isnt clear then come back with a specific question

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Munich Hotels and Places to Stay

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• Family room for 4 or 5 or 6?
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• Hotel at/near MUC airport?
• Bavarian country inn?
• Free city map
• How to use public transport?
• Best (food) shopping ?
• Recommended restaurants
• Best Schnitzel?
• Clubs and bars in Munich
• Recommended beer gardens
• Which castles to visit?
• How to visit the Neuschwanstein castle?
• Andechs monastery
• Day trip to Salzburg?
• Day trips from Munich
• New BayernTicket prices
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• Fast train tickets 25€
• Eurail is expensive
• Drive into Munich with my own car?
• Rental car?
• Where to store luggage?
• BMW factory tour?
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• Watch Bayern München play at the Allianz Arena?
• Activities for kids?
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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.

Visit of the New Town Hall Tower

Discover Munich's highlights from a very special perspective after just a few seconds in the lift!

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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