Planning a trip to Munich and not sure where to start? I’ve got you covered. I’ve been to Munich twice, and I think it might be one of my favorite German cities. Munich is one of those cities that feels both historic and modern, with beautiful palaces, lively beer gardens, great museums, and easy day trips to some of Germany’s most famous spots (hello, Neuschwanstein Castle). Whether you’re heading here for Oktoberfest or just looking for the best things to do in Munich year-round, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
I also wrote a pretty extensive article about everything you need to know about Oktoberfest. So, if you’re attending this year, you have to check it out. I go over how much you can expect to spend, what to wear, where to stay, and more.
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Quick Picks for Munich
Don’t have time to read the whole guide? Here are my top picks to make planning your trip easier:
- Start in Marienplatz: Watch the Glockenspiel at the New Town Hall and climb St. Peter’s Church for the best city views. Do a walking tour if you’re short on time.
- Day trip you can’t miss: Neuschwanstein Castle Full-Day Trip. This is the castle that inspired Disney’s famous castle.
- Visit a palace (or two): The Residenz shows Munich’s royal side, while Nymphenburg Palace wows with its gardens. Buy your tickets in advance.
- Where to Stay: Stay in Altstadt if it’s your first time. We stayed at Hotel Amba and loved it. Check Munich hotels here.
- Experience beer culture: You can’t live without visiting Hofbräuhaus. For the full story (and a lot of fun), join this beer halls and breweries tour.
- Eat your way through Viktualienmarkt: A lively market full of Bavarian specialties. Join this foodie tour if you want to taste it all.
- Learn from history at Dachau: A sobering but important half-day trip, best done with a guided tour.
Best Times to Visit Munich
The best time to visit Munich really depends on what kind of vibe you’re looking for.
- Spring (April–June): Mild weather and fewer crowds. Perfect for sightseeing without heavy coats or long lines.
- Summer (July–August): Sunny days, packed beer gardens, and open-air events. This is also when tourists flood the city, so expect higher prices and crowds. Also, keep in mind that temperatures in Germany don’t typically get very warm, so you may still need a light jacket.
- Fall (September–October): Peak season thanks to Oktoberfest. If you’ve always dreamed of wearing a dirndl or lederhosen and drinking beer, this is the time to go. Just book your hotel well in advance because the city gets very busy.
- Winter (November–December): Munich is incredibly beautiful with its Christmas markets.
👉 Quick note: Munich is walkable year-round, but keep in mind winters can be very cold and gloomy. If you’re wondering how many days you need in Munich, I’d say at least 3–4 full days give you enough time to see the highlights and sneak in a day trip.
When I Visited + My Experience in Oktoberfest
I visited Munich in late September, which of course meant Oktoberfest was in full swing. I studied abroad in Germany, and a fun fact about me, I am fluent in German, so I had always wanted to attend Oktoberfest. And it was such a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
It really is as wild, fun, and over-the-top as you’d imagine! Picture giant beer tents filled with people from all over the world, traditional Bavarian music, waitresses carrying way too many beers at once, and plenty of pretzels bigger than your head.
Even if you’re not a big beer drinker (neither am I), Oktoberfest is still worth experiencing at least once! It’s such a huge part of Bavarian culture. I loved walking around the festival grounds, checking out the carnival rides, and just people-watching.
That said, Munich isn’t only about Oktoberfest. If you’re wondering if Munich is worth visiting outside of Oktoberfest? The answer is absolutely yes. The city has so much to offer year-round!
You’ll find palaces and museums to beautiful parks, and beer gardens. Personally, I’d go back in December to experience the Christmas markets, because Marienplatz looks magical with all the holiday lights.
Recommended for you: The Ultimate Oktoberfest Guide
Where to Stay in Munich
Munich is pretty compact and easy to get around, so where you stay really depends on the type of trip you want.
I highly recommend staying in the Altstadt (old town), especially if it’s your first time in Munich, as you’ll be close to the main attractions like Marienplatz, the Viktualienmarkt, and St. Peter’s Church. The only con is that hotels here can be pricier.
A good alternative is Maxvorstadt, known as Munich’s art and museum district. This area has a more local vibe while still being central.
We stayed at the Hotel Amba, located in the Old Town. We were within walking distance of most tourist attractions, and within a 25-minute walk from where Oktoberfest takes place.
👉 Quick note: Munich is walkable, especially if you stay in Altstadt or Maxvorstadt. Otherwise, the U-Bahn (subway) and trams make it easy to get around. If you’re planning to take public transportation a lot, then I recommend you get the Munich card.
Tips for Visiting Munich
Here are a few things I wish I knew before my trip that will make your visit way smoother:
- Get a transport pass: Munich is super walkable, but you’ll probably still use the U-Bahn or trams, especially if you’re not staying in the city center. The Munich Card (which includes unlimited public transport + up to 50% off top sights) is worth it if you’re planning to hit a lot of attractions.
- Book tours and tickets in advance: Especially for popular spots like Neuschwanstein Castle or Dachau Memorial. Munich is a tourist city year-round, so plan ahead!
- Cash is still king: And that applies to Germany as a whole; Germans just like cash. While card payments are more common, some smaller beer gardens, markets, and bakeries prefer cash.
- Language tip: Most people speak English, but learning a few German phrases goes a long way. You can way with “Danke” (thank you), as it is the easiest to learn.
- Seasonal packing: Winters can get icy, so bring proper layers if you’re visiting Christmas markets. In summer, Munich can get hot and also feel a bit cooler in the evening, so bring a light jacket or cardigan.
- Respect quiet hours: Sundays and public holidays are generally quieter, with shops closed. Use that time to explore parks, museums, or head on a day trip.
- Bring an outlet adapter & power bank: This is my favorite adapter. It is super affordable as you get two for less than $15. What I like is that you can charge multiple devices with it, as it has 3 outlets and 3 USB ports. The INUI power bank is the one I always travel with. It can charge my phone up to 3 times, and it is slim and lightweight enough to fit into my smallest bags.
18 Amazing Things to Do in Munich
Munich is packed with experiences you won’t want to miss. Here are 18 amazing things to do in Munich that will give you the perfect mix of history and culture.
1. Explore Marienplatz & the Glockenspiel
Marienplatz is the heart of Munich and probably the first place you’ll end up.
The square is surrounded by historic buildings, but the star is the New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus) with its famous Glockenspiel. Every day at 11 am (and again at noon, plus 5 pm in summer), you can watch the figures dance and joust on the clock tower. It’s such a classic Munich moment, and you can’t miss it.
If you want the full story behind the Glockenspiel and Old Town, I recommend joining a walking tour, as it is the easiest way to learn the city’s history while exploring the main sights.
👉 Pro tip: For the best view of Marienplatz, climb up St. Peter’s Church tower nearby. It’s a workout, but the panoramic city views are so worth it.
2. Visit the Residenz Palace
If you’re into history, the Residenz Palace is a must. This massive former royal palace of the Bavarian monarchs is filled with gilded halls, ornate rooms, and centuries of history. It’s easy to spend hours here wandering through the Antiquarium (a Renaissance hall) and the Treasury.
The palace is right in the city center, so you can easily pair it with a Marienplatz visit. If you’re wondering what Munich is most famous for, its royal heritage and beer halls. So the Residenz is a must-see.
To make the most of your visit, you can book a guided Residenz Palace tour, which includes museum entry plus a 2.5-hour deep dive into the history.
3. Relax in the English Garden
The English Garden is one of the world’s largest urban parks (even bigger than New York’s Central Park). You can stroll along leafy paths, rent a paddle boat, or watch the surfers on the Eisbach river wave (yes, actual surfing in the middle of Munich).
Don’t miss the Chinese Tower beer garden inside the park. It’s the perfect spot to grab a stein and a pretzel after a walk.
If you’re visiting in summer and wondering what to do in Munich when it’s hot, this is it. Bring a blanket, some snacks, and wine or beer, and it’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon.
4. Tour the Nymphenburg Palace
This baroque palace was the summer residence of Bavarian rulers and has beautiful gardens, fountains, and even a canal where you can take a boat ride in the summer. Inside, you’ll find beautifully decorated rooms, but honestly, the gardens alone are worth the trip.
For a seamless visit, consider booking a Nymphenburg Palace guided tour. It’s a great way to learn the history while exploring both the palace and the gardens.
5. Experience Hofbräuhaus Beer Hall
You can’t go to Munich and skip Hofbräuhaus. This world-famous beer hall has been around since the 1500s and is the ultimate Bavarian experience: long wooden tables, live music, and giant glasses of beer paired with equally giant pretzels and sausages. Yes, it’s touristy, but it’s also a lot of fun, especially if you go in the evening.
If you want to learn more about the beer or want to go with a group, join a guided tour of Munich’s beer halls and breweries. It’s a fun way to experience Hofbräuhaus along with other spots while learning about beer.
Recommended for you: 26 Essential Things to Know Before Attending Oktoberfest
6. Admire Art at the Alte Pinakothek
For art lovers, the Alte Pinakothek is one of Europe’s most important galleries, with works by Rubens, Rembrandt, and da Vinci. The building itself is beautiful, and it’s part of Munich’s “art triangle,” so you can easily spend a whole day museum-hopping here.
If you’re visiting Munich soon, you’ll love my upcoming guides to Berlin and Paris. Join below so you don’t miss them!
7. Climb St. Peter’s Church Tower
If you’re looking for the best views in Munich, St. Peter’s Church (Peterskirche) is the spot. The climb is a bit of a workout (about 300 steps), but once you’re at the top, you’ll love the views over Marienplatz, the Frauenkirche, and on clear days, even the Alps in the distance.
8. Shop & Stroll Through Viktualienmarkt
Just a few steps from Marienplatz, Viktualienmarkt is Munich’s open-air market where locals shop for fresh produce, flowers, and Bavarian specialties. I love visiting the local markets in every European city I visit, they are always beautiful and I enjoy trying different foods as well.
Viktualienmarkt is simply the perfect place to try different foods, wander around, and maybe buy some souvenirs. You can also sit at one of the communal tables in the market’s beer garden.
If you’re a foodie, there are actually quite a few tours that combine Viktualienmarkt and a walking tour of the old town. This might be a great way to learn more about Munich’s history and also to try some amazing Bavarian food.
I’d recommend this Viktualienmarkt Gourmet Food Tour, it has amazing reviews and includes two hours of tastings and insider tips you’d never pick up wandering on your own.
9. Visit BMW Welt & Museum
Car lovers, this one’s for you. BMW Welt (free entry!) is a sleek showroom where you can check out the latest models and even watch cars being delivered to new owners. Right next door is the BMW Museum, which is all about the history of one of Germany’s most iconic brands. Even if you’re not that into cars, the architecture and exhibits are worth a visit.
10. Take a Day Trip to Neuschwanstein Castle
You can’t talk about Munich without mentioning Neuschwanstein Castle. This is the fairytale palace that inspired Disney’s iconic castle. Perched on a hill surrounded by mountains and lakes, it’s one of the most photogenic spots in Germany. The inside is beautiful, but the real magic is in the views from the Marienbrücke bridge.
Honestly, the easiest way to see it is with a day trip from Munich. There are no direct trains, and even if you rent a car, a car ride is around 1 hour and 45 minutes, and I honestly don’t know much about the parking situation. I love that tours handle transportation, tickets, and timing; all you have to do is enjoy the views (and take about 500 photos).
11. Explore the Deutsches Museum
The Deutsches Museum is the world’s largest science and technology museum, and it’s surprisingly fun even if you’re not a “museum person.” From early airplanes and ships to space exploration and hands-on experiments, there’s something for everyone. Families especially love it because kids can interact with so many of the exhibits.
12. Visit Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial
A visit to Dachau is heavy but so important. As the first Nazi concentration camp, it stands as a sobering reminder of history. Walking through the grounds and museum is an emotional experience.
If you decide to go, I’d highly recommend a guided tour to Dachau Memorial, as having a guide helps you understand the context and history in a much deeper way.
13. Stroll Through Olympiapark
Built for the 1972 Olympics, Olympiapark is now a massive recreation area with lakes, trails, and cool activities like ziplining over the Olympic Stadium. It’s also where concerts and events are held, so check the schedule if you’re visiting. It’s a fun spot to walk around or grab a coffee with a view of the Olympic Tower.
14. Indulge in Bavarian Cuisine
Munich is foodie heaven if you love hearty comfort food. Classic dishes include Weisswurst (white sausage), schnitzel, pretzels, roast pork with dumplings, and, of course, apple strudel for dessert. Beer gardens are a great place to try these, but you’ll also find plenty of modern Bavarian restaurants putting a fresh spin on the classics.
To taste the best of it all, I recommend booking a Bavarian food and beer tour. It’s the perfect way to eat (and drink) your way through Munich while learning about each dish.
15. Wander Through Munich Christmas Markets
If you’re visiting in late November or December, the Christmas markets are a must. The main one in Marienplatz is absolutely stunning with twinkling lights, handmade ornaments, and stalls selling hot Glühwein (mulled wine). There are also smaller ones, like the Medieval Market.
16. Step Inside the Law Library (Juristische Bibliothek)
This is a unique thing to do in Munich. Tucked inside Munich’s New Town Hall is the Juristische Bibliothek (Law Library), and it’s straight out of a Harry Potter movie. It is one of the most beautiful libraries in Europe. It’s usually closed to the public, but you can visit with a guide and the tickets are pretty affordable.
17. Visit Asamkirche
This tiny baroque church in Sendlingerstraße is easy to miss from the outside, but inside it’s so beautiful. Built by the Asam brothers in the 18th century, Asamkirche is packed with gold details, frescoes, and dramatic decoration.
Since it’s right in the city center, you can easily pop in while shopping or exploring Munich’s Old Town.
18. Experience FC Bayern Munich
Whether you’re a die-hard soccer fan or just curious, touring the Allianz Arena and FC Bayern Museum is a must. The stadium is massive and one of the most modern in Europe. You’ll get to explore behind the scenes, from the locker rooms to the players’ tunnel, and learn about the history of Germany’s most successful football club.
For the ultimate experience, join this FC Bayern Munich football tour. It’s the best way to see the Allianz Arena and learn more about the club’s history.
Frequently Asked Questions About Munich
I recommend at least 3–4 full days. That gives you time to see the highlights, explore the beer gardens, and take at least one day trip (like Neuschwanstein or Dachau).
Yes! Most of the main attractions in the city center are within walking distance. For longer distances, the U-Bahn and trams are super easy to use.
Munich is best known for Oktoberfest, beer gardens, and castles like Neuschwanstein. But it’s also packed with museums, historic palaces, and gorgeous parks like the English Garden.
Absolutely. The Christmas markets make the city extra magical, and you’ll find fewer crowds at attractions. Just be prepared for freezing weather.
Both are amazing, but very different. Berlin is edgy and artsy, while Munich has more of a cozy, traditional Bavarian vibe. If you love fairytale castles and beer halls, start with Munich. It is also totally possible to see both cities, as a train from Berlin to Munich is only 5 hours.
Munich is one of those cities that blends history, culture, and fun in the best way possible. Whether you’re here for castles, beer gardens, or hidden gems like the law library, these are the top things to do in Munich that will make your trip unforgettable.
