Here are my picks for the 18 best things to see and do in Munich, with prices, opening hours and tips on what to book before you go. Prices are in euros. Several of the art museums only cost €1 on Sundays, and quite a few museums are closed on Mondays, so read the sections before you plan your days. The last three sections are about day trips out of the city.

1. Marienplatz and Neues Rathaus

Marienplatz is Munich’s central square and the natural place to start. The whole north side is taken up by the neo-Gothic town hall, Neues Rathaus, which was built in three stages from 1867 to 1905. Its tower holds the city’s famous Glockenspiel, which plays every day at 11am and noon and, from March to October, at 5pm as well. At the top, you’ll see a knights’ tournament from Duke Wilhelm V’s wedding in 1568, which the Bavarian knight naturally wins, and below it the coopers dance the old Schäfflertanz.

You can take a lift up the 85-metre tower. Tickets cost from €7, and the tower is open every day from 10am to 8pm, with the last trip up at 7.40pm. Visits are split into 20-minute time slots, and you buy your ticket online or at the tourist information office in the town hall. The tower is closed on a number of public holidays.

The square is packed at 11am and noon. My tip is to watch the Glockenspiel at 5pm in the summer half of the year and then take the lift up. Marienplatz has its own U-Bahn and S-Bahn station. You can read how to get here from the airport in my guide to getting from Munich Airport to the city centre.

Book a guided walking tour of Munich’s Old Town.

2. Frauenkirche

The Frauenkirche, with its two towers and green onion domes, is Munich’s landmark. The foundation stone was laid in 1468, and the brick church itself was finished after just 20 years, while the domes were added around 1525. The towers are just under 99 metres high, and no building in the Old Town is taller.

In the entrance hall, you can see the Teufelstritt, a footprint in the floor. According to legend, the devil made a bet with the master builder that the church had no visible windows. From that exact spot, the pillars hide all the windows, so the devil stamped on the floor in triumph. When he took one more step, he saw the windows and realised he’d been tricked.

The church is open every day from 8am to 8pm, and entry is free, but you can’t walk around during services. The south tower is open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 5pm and on Sundays and public holidays from 11.30am to 5pm, with the last ascent at 4.30pm. It costs €7.50 for adults and €5.50 for children aged 7 to 16. First you climb about 90 steps up a spiral staircase, and then you take the lift to the viewing platform. The church is a two-minute walk from Marienplatz.

3. Residenz

The Residenz was the palace of the Bavarian dukes and kings, and the complex takes up a whole block between Marienplatz and Odeonsplatz. In the Residenzmuseum, you walk through room after room, including King Ludwig I’s apartments and the Herkulessaal, which is still used for concerts. The treasury, the Schatzkammer, holds the crown and regalia of the Bavarian kings, and the small red and gold rococo theatre, the Cuvilliés-Theater, is still in use.

The Residenzmuseum and the treasury each cost €10, and a combined ticket for both costs €15. With the Cuvilliés-Theater added, it costs €20. Under-18s get in for free. The museum and the treasury are open every day from 9am to 6pm from late March to late October and from 10am to 5pm the rest of the year, and last entry is an hour before closing. The Residenz is closed on 1 January, Shrove Tuesday and 24, 25 and 31 December.

The main entrance is on Max-Joseph-Platz. Behind the palace lies the palace garden, the Hofgarten, with the round Diana Temple, and it’s free. My tip is to get the combined ticket and save the garden for afterwards.

Book a guided tour of the Residenz and the Hofgarten.

4. Englischer Garten and the Eisbach Wave

The Englischer Garten was laid out from 1789 as a park for the people of the city. It covers 375 hectares, which is bigger than Central Park in New York, and it stretches five and a half kilometres north from the edge of the Old Town.

On the southern edge of the park on Prinzregentenstraße, right by the Haus der Kunst, you’ll find the Eisbach wave. It’s a standing wave in a small river, where surfers ride their boards on the same spot almost all year round, and you can watch from the bridge. According to the city’s website, surfing is only allowed with a special safety leash and not after 10pm, and swimming in the Eisbach is forbidden.

Further into the park stands the Chinese Tower (Chinesischer Turm), with a beer garden of around 7,000 seats, one of the largest in Bavaria. On a small hill sits the Greek-style temple Monopteros, which was built in 1836 and 1837, and from there you can see the Frauenkirche, the Theatinerkirche and the town hall. Barbecues, fires and swimming aren’t allowed in the park. You can reach the southern end on bus 100 to Nationalmuseum/Haus der Kunst or on the U3 and U6 to Universität. My tip is to start at the Eisbach, walk up to the Monopteros and finish in the beer garden at the Chinese Tower. If you’d like to stay close to the park, you can see hotels in Schwabing here.

5. Viktualienmarkt

Viktualienmarkt has been in its current spot since 1807 and is Munich’s big food market, just a few steps from Marienplatz. There are more than 100 traders spread over just over 18,500 square metres, selling fruit, vegetables, cheese, sausages, fish and flowers, and there are stalls with food you can eat on the spot. In the middle of the market stands the blue and white maypole, and between the stalls you’ll find the market’s own beer garden.

The market is open Monday to Friday from 8am to 8pm and on Saturdays from 8am to 3pm, but each stall sets its own opening hours, and many close earlier. There’s no market on Sundays. If you’d like to stay in the Old Town (Altstadt) close to the market and Marienplatz, Altstadt-Lehel is the first area in my guide to where to stay in Munich, and you can see hotels in Altstadt here.

Come for lunch on a weekday, buy a few different things from the stalls and find a seat in the beer garden. I think it’s one of the best places in the centre for a cheap lunch, and you can easily do it on your own. If you’d like to taste your way around with a local guide who tells you about the Bavarian specialities along the way, there are guided food tours of the market.

Book a guided food tour of Viktualienmarkt.

6. Hofbräuhaus am Platzl

The Hofbräuhaus is probably Munich’s best-known beer hall. The brewery was founded in 1589 by Duke Wilhelm V, King Ludwig I opened the Hofbräuhaus to the public in 1828, and the beer hall you sit in today is the result of a major rebuild from 1896 to 1897.

Inside the large vaulted hall, you sit at long wooden tables, the beer comes in big mugs, and the kitchen serves Bavarian food. There’s also a beer garden in the courtyard. The Hofbräuhaus is at Platzl 9 and is open every day from 11am to midnight. The kitchen closes at 10pm, and last orders at the bar are at 11.30pm. If there are fewer than four of you, you don’t need to book. You just sit down wherever there’s a free seat, and it’s completely normal to share a table with strangers.

I’ll be honest. The Hofbräuhaus is touristy, noisy and not the cheapest place to eat in Munich, but I still think it’s part of a first visit. Come early in the afternoon if you want to be sure of a table, and move on to one of the other beer halls afterwards.

Book a guided tour of Munich’s beer halls and breweries.

7. Schloss Nymphenburg

Work on Nymphenburg began in 1664 as a summer residence for Elector Ferdinand Maria after the birth of the heir to the throne, Max Emanuel, and the palace and park were later extended to the size they are today. King Ludwig II, who built Neuschwanstein, was born in the palace in 1845.

Besides the palace itself, you can see the Marstallmuseum with the royal carriages and Nymphenburg porcelain, as well as the small park palaces of Amalienburg, Badenburg, Pagodenburg and Magdalenenklause out in the park. The palace costs €10, and the Marstallmuseum costs €8. The combined ticket for everything costs €20 from 1 April to 15 October and €16 in winter, when the park palaces are closed. Under-18s go free.

The palace and the Marstallmuseum are open every day from 9am to 6pm from April to mid-October and from 10am to 4pm the rest of the year. The park opens at 6am and closes between 6pm and 9.30pm, depending on the season. Take the U-Bahn to Rotkreuzplatz and the tram from there to the Schloss Nymphenburg stop. My tip is to come in the summer half of the year, so you can see the park palaces too.

8. Deutsches Museum

The Deutsches Museum stands on an island in the River Isar and is a huge museum of science and technology. The exhibitions cover around 20,000 square metres spread over 19 permanent exhibitions, and the building itself stands on more than 1,500 piles in the riverbed.

The museum is being renovated in stages, so some sections may be closed when you visit. It’s open every day from 9am to 5pm, with last entry at 4.30pm, and it’s closed on 1 January, Good Friday, 1 May, 1 November and 24, 25 and 31 December. A ticket costs €16 for adults and €9 for children aged 6 to 17 and students. The family ticket for two adults and their children costs €33, and children up to the age of five go free.

Take the S-Bahn or tram 16 to Isartor, and it’s a short walk to the museum. My tip is to choose two or three sections in advance, because you won’t manage everything in one day, and it’s a particularly good choice on a rainy day.

9. Alte Pinakothek and Kunstareal

In the Maxvorstadt district lies the Kunstareal, where several of Munich’s big art museums stand side by side. For most people, the most important one is the Alte Pinakothek, with European paintings by the Old Masters. Among the works on display are Dürer’s self-portrait from 1500, Rubens’ Great Last Judgement, Raphael’s Canigiani Holy Family, Leonardo da Vinci’s Madonna of the Carnation and a self-portrait by Rembrandt from 1629.

The Alte Pinakothek is open from 10am to 6pm, until 8pm on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, and it’s closed on Mondays. A ticket costs €9, but only €1 on Sundays. The Pinakothek der Moderne, with art and design from the 20th and 21st centuries, costs €10 and Museum Brandhorst €7, and they also cost €1 on Sundays. A day ticket for €12 is valid at the Alte Pinakothek, the Pinakothek der Moderne, Museum Brandhorst and the Sammlung Schack. The Neue Pinakothek is closed for a long renovation, so check the museums’ website before you count on seeing it.

Trams 27 and 28 run to the Pinakotheken stop, and so does bus 100. My tip is to plan your visit for a Sunday. Maxvorstadt is also a good area to stay in, and you can see hotels in Maxvorstadt here.

10. BMW Welt and BMW Museum

North of the centre, by the Olympiapark, is BMW’s headquarters, and here you can see both BMW Welt and the BMW Museum. BMW Welt is the car brand’s large showroom building with the latest models, and entry is free. It’s open Monday to Saturday from 7.30am to midnight and on Sundays and public holidays from 9am to midnight, but it’s closed on a few days a year, including around Christmas and New Year.

Opposite BMW Welt is the BMW Museum, where you’ll see cars and motorbikes from the brand’s entire history. The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 6pm, with last entry at 5.30pm, and it’s closed on Mondays. A ticket costs €17, or €9 reduced, and a family ticket for two adults and up to three children under 18 costs €38.

Take the U3 to Olympiazentrum. My tip is to start at BMW Welt, which is free, and only pay for the museum if you really love cars. Afterwards, walk over to the Olympiapark, and you’ll have a good half day in the northern part of the city.

11. Olympiapark

The Olympiapark was built for the 1972 Summer Olympics, and the large tent-like roof over the stadium and the halls is still one of Munich’s best-known sights. The roof covers more than 75,000 square metres and is held up by 58 steel masts. Around the lake, the Olympiasee, there are paths and green lawns where you can wander in peace and quiet.

You get the best view from the Olympiaberg, a hill built from the rubble of the buildings in Munich that were destroyed during the Second World War. It’s about 56 metres high, and from the top you can see out over the city’s rooftops and the stadium and, on clear days, all the way to the Alps.

Be aware that both the Olympiaturm and the Olympiastadion are closed for a long renovation, so check the park’s own website before you count on going up the tower or into the stadium. If you still want to get up high, the park’s Skylift tour takes you round with a guide and 70 metres up in the air. It costs €28 and lasts 90 to 120 minutes. Take the U3 or U8 to Olympiazentrum, and walk up the Olympiaberg at sunset.

12. Allianz Arena and FC Bayern Museum

The Allianz Arena in the north of Munich is the home ground of FC Bayern Munich. Even if you don’t have a ticket for a match, you can see the stadium on an Arena Tour and visit the FC Bayern Museum, which tells the story of the club.

The museum alone costs €12, and the museum with the Arena Tour costs €25 for adults and €11 for children aged 6 to 13. A family ticket costs €59. On non-match days, it’s open every day from 10am to 6pm, with last entry at 5.15pm, and the tour with the museum takes about two and a half hours. Only a ticket bought online in advance guarantees you a place on the Arena Tour, because on many days you can’t buy one at the entrance. Special opening hours apply on match days.

Take the U6 towards Garching-Forschungszentrum to Fröttmaning. The journey from Marienplatz takes about 16 minutes, and from there it’s a 15 to 20-minute walk to the stadium. Check the fixture list before you book.

Book a ticket for the FC Bayern Museum and Arena View with an audio guide.

13. Alter Peter

St Peter’s Church is Munich’s oldest parish church, and its history goes back to the 12th century. Locals call its tower Alter Peter, or Old Peter. During the Second World War, the church was almost completely destroyed, and only a stump of the tower was left standing, so the rebuilding went on right up until 2000.

You climb around 300 steps up to the viewing platform at a height of 56 metres. The tower costs €5 for adults and €2 for schoolchildren aged 6 to 18, and the church itself is free. From April to October, it’s open every day from 9am to 7.30pm, with last entry at 7pm. From November to March, the tower closes at 6.30pm on weekdays. It’s closed on Good Friday, Shrove Tuesday, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.

The church is right by Marienplatz. I think the view from here is better than from the town hall tower, because you can see both the town hall and the Frauenkirche’s two towers. Come early in the day or late in the afternoon, when the queue at the ticket office is shorter.

14. Asamkirche

The Asamkirche, officially called St. Johann Nepomuk, is a small baroque church squeezed in between the houses on Sendlinger Straße, and it’s easy to walk past. The brothers Cosmas Damian and Egid Quirin Asam built it from 1733 to 1746 as their private church next to their own house, but neither of them lived to see it finished.

The interior is only 22 by 8 metres, but it’s decorated from floor to ceiling. The high altar has four twisted columns, a nod to Bernini’s baldachin in St Peter’s Basilica in Rome, and the crucifix hangs lower than usual, directly opposite the pulpit.

The church is open from April to October every day from 9am to 7pm, though not until 1pm on Fridays. From November to March, it closes an hour earlier. Entry is free, but the church welcomes a donation towards its upkeep. You can’t walk around during Mass, and it’s a place where people speak quietly. The church is at Sendlinger Straße 32, a short walk from Marienplatz. My tip is to look in on your way between Marienplatz and Sendlinger Tor, because a visit only takes about a quarter of an hour.

15. Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site

The Nazis opened the concentration camp in Dachau, north-west of Munich, on 22 March 1933 on the site of a former gunpowder and munitions factory. More than 200,000 prisoners from over 40 countries were held in Dachau and the camp’s subcamps, and at least 41,500 people died here before American soldiers liberated the camp on 29 April 1945. The memorial site, with a documentary exhibition, opened in 1965.

It’s a harrowing experience, but it’s also one of the most important places to visit if you want to understand the history. The exhibitions and grounds are open every day from 9am to 5pm, the area around the former crematorium closes at 4.30pm, and the site is only closed on 24 December. Entry is free, and you don’t need to book.

Take the S2 towards Dachau/Petershausen to Dachau station, which takes around 25 minutes from Hauptbahnhof, and from there bus 726 towards Saubachsiedlung to the KZ-Gedenkstätte stop. The memorial site recommends a day ticket that covers both the train and the bus. Set aside at least half a day, and consider going with a guide who can put the place in context.

Book a guided tour of the Dachau Memorial Site from Munich.

16. Day Trip to Neuschwanstein

Neuschwanstein is the fairy-tale castle that King Ludwig II started building in 1868 in the mountains near Füssen, and it was never completely finished. Together with Linderhof, the king’s house on the Schachen and Herrenchiemsee, it was added to UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 2025.

You can only see the castle on a guided tour of about 30 minutes at a fixed time, and if you’re late, you can’t join it. A ticket costs €21, plus a €2.50 booking fee if you buy online. Under-18s go free but also need a ticket. The ticket centre in Hohenschwangau only sells tickets for the same day, and they often sell out early, so book online well in advance. The castle is open every day from 9am to 6pm from late March to mid-October and from 10am to 4pm the rest of the year, and it’s closed on 1 January and 24, 25 and 31 December. Backpacks and pushchairs aren’t allowed inside.

The journey by train and bus from Munich takes about two hours each way, so it’s a long day. An organised day trip with a ticket for the castle is the easiest option, and the most popular one combines Neuschwanstein with Linderhof.

Book a day trip to Neuschwanstein and Linderhof from Munich.

17. Day Trip to the Zugspitze

The Zugspitze is Germany’s highest mountain and sits on the border with Austria near Garmisch-Partenkirchen, south-west of Munich. From the summit, you can see out over the Alps in every direction, and there are restaurants and viewing platforms at the top.

You can go up on the cogwheel railway from Grainau and the glacier cable car, or on the Seilbahn Zugspitze cable car, and the classic round trip combines them, so you go up one way and down another. The round trip costs €78 for adults, €62.50 for young people aged 16 to 18 and €39 for children aged 6 to 15, and children under 6 travel free with a parent. In the winter season, the ticket is cheaper if you buy it online.

It’s an expensive excursion, and it only makes sense in good weather, because in the clouds you won’t see anything from the top. My tip is to keep an eye on the weather forecast and only decide on the day once you’re in Munich. Even in summer, it’s cold up there, so bring an extra jumper. If you don’t want to drive yourself, you can go on an organised tour with transport from Munich and a stop in Garmisch.

Book a day trip to the Zugspitze and Garmisch from Munich.

18. Day Trip to Salzburg

Salzburg lies just across the border in Austria and is the obvious day trip if you’d also like to see another city. For several hundred years, Salzburg was an ecclesiastical state ruled by prince-archbishops, and Italian architects gave the city its baroque character. The historic centre has been on UNESCO’s World Heritage List since 1996, and the city is also known as Mozart’s birthplace.

The big sights are the Hohensalzburg Fortress high above the city, Mozart’s birthplace on Getreidegasse and the Mirabell Gardens. Everything is so close together that you can see it all in a day, and the city’s tourist office has a good overview of the ten most popular places.

The train from Munich Hauptbahnhof takes about an hour and a half each way. Austria also uses the euro, but remember your passport or ID card when you cross the border. A guided day trip by train is an easy option if you’d like the city’s history without having to plan the route yourself. If you’d like to see more of Austria, I’ve also written about the best things to do in Vienna.

Book a guided day trip by train to Salzburg from Munich.

Practical Travel Tips for Munich

You can easily explore the Old Town on foot, and for the rest of the city you use the U-Bahn, S-Bahn, trams and buses on the same tickets. A single ticket in zone M costs €4.20, and a day ticket for zone M costs just over €10, so the day ticket already pays for itself on your third journey.

From the airport, the S1 and S8 S-Bahn trains run to the centre, and between them there’s a train every ten minutes. The journey to Hauptbahnhof takes about 40 minutes.

Plan the museums around the days of the week. The Pinakothek museums and the BMW Museum are closed on Mondays, while the Deutsches Museum, the Residenz and Nymphenburg are open every day of the week. On Sundays, the Alte Pinakothek, the Pinakothek der Moderne and Museum Brandhorst only cost €1, but on the other hand there’s no market at Viktualienmarkt. Neuschwanstein and the Arena Tour at the Allianz Arena should be booked online well in advance.

If you’d like to see the full range, you can see all hotels in Munich on Booking.com. If Berlin is also on your list, take a look at my picks of the best things to do in Berlin.

The post 18 Best Things to Do in Munich: Sights, Prices & Tips appeared first on Destination Well Known.

Here I compare the options, including fares, journey times, current closures and my advice on which one to choose.

1. S-Bahn: S1 and S8

The S-Bahn is the option most people choose. The station is beneath Munich Airport Center, the covered area between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Just follow the signs with the green S.

Two lines run into the city, taking different routes:

• S8 approaches from the east via Ostbahnhof. It takes around 30 minutes to Ostbahnhof, 36 minutes to Marienplatz and 39 minutes to Hauptbahnhof.
• S1 approaches from the west via Laim. It takes 44 minutes to Hauptbahnhof and 48 minutes to Marienplatz.

Each line runs every 20 minutes, giving you six trains an hour in total. For Marienplatz or Hauptbahnhof, simply take whichever train leaves first. For Ostbahnhof or Haidhausen, the S8 is quicker.

The S8 runs around the clock, with trains roughly every 40 minutes at night. The S1 runs from early morning until around midnight, with overnight services at weekends. The airport has an overview of trains and buses.

Fares and tickets

The airport is in zone 5, and a journey to the city centre needs a ticket covering zones M to 5. These fares have applied since 1 January 2026:

• Single ticket: €15.10.
• Airport-City-Day-Ticket Single: €17.50. This covers the journey into town and all S-Bahn, U-Bahn, trams and buses for the rest of the day, until 06:00 the following morning.
• Airport-City-Day-Ticket Group: €32.60 for up to five adults. Two children aged 6 to 14 count as one adult.
• Children aged 6 to 14: €2 for a single ticket. Children under 6 travel free.

The day ticket costs only €2.40 more than a single, so it is worthwhile if you make just one more journey that day. For three or more people, the group ticket is by far the cheapest option. Fares are listed by S-Bahn Munich, and the day ticket conditions are explained by transport authority MVV.

Buy your ticket from the machines at the station or in the MVV app. Tickets that are not already validated must be stamped in a machine before you go down to the platform. Travelling without a valid ticket carries a €60 penalty.

A Deutschlandticket is also valid on the S-Bahn to and from the airport.

Two things to watch out for

Do not get off at Besucherpark. It is the stop before the airport and serves the car parks, rather than the terminals.

On the return journey to the airport, the S1 splits at Neufahrn. One part goes to the airport and the other to Freising, so check the destination displayed on your carriage before sitting down.

2. Lufthansa Express Bus

The Lufthansa Express Bus runs every 20 minutes from Terminal 2, Terminal 1 and Munich Airport Center to Schwabing and Hauptbahnhof. Anyone can use it, even if you have not flown with Lufthansa.

The journey takes around 25 minutes to Nordfriedhof in Schwabing and around 45 minutes to Hauptbahnhof. Buses leave the airport between 06:25 and 22:25, and Hauptbahnhof between 05:15 and 19:55.

Fares and tickets

A single ticket costs €12.50 online or €13.50 from the driver. A return costs €20.30 online, children aged 6 to 14 pay €7.50, and a family ticket for two adults and up to three children costs €29.50 online. Fares and timetables are on the Lufthansa Express Bus website.

You can also buy an airport bus ticket here, so it is on your phone when you land.

The bus is the cheapest choice for a solo traveller, and the fare includes two suitcases. It shares the motorway with other traffic, so the journey can take longer during rush hour. MVV tickets are not valid on the bus, but the Deutschlandticket is.

3. Taxis and Uber

Taxis between the airport and the area around Hauptbahnhof have a fixed fare. It fell from €106 to €96 on 1 July 2026 and applies in both directions. The fixed fare between the airport and the Messe München exhibition grounds is €90. You can read the details on the City of Munich website.

For other destinations in the city, taxis use the meter. The journey takes around 45 minutes, and taxi ranks are outside both terminals. For four people, the fixed fare works out at €24 each.

Uber also operates from the airport. Book in the app and follow the “Ride App Pick up” signs at Terminal 1 or Terminal 2, as explained on the airport’s ride service page. Munich introduced minimum fares for Uber and similar services on 1 July 2026, so expect around €90 to €110, with little saving compared with a taxi.

Private transfers

To have a driver waiting in the arrivals hall, you can book a private transfer from Munich Airport here. Prices start at around €58 per person.

4. Terminal 1 or Terminal 2?

Lufthansa and Star Alliance airlines use Terminal 2, while other airlines use Terminal 1. SAS moved to Terminal 1 when it joined SkyTeam in 2024.

This makes no difference to your transport options. The S-Bahn station is between the terminals, and the Lufthansa Express Bus and taxis serve both.

Which option should you choose?

Here is what I recommend for the most common situations:

Travelling alone to Hauptbahnhof or Schwabing: Take the Lufthansa Express Bus for €12.50.

Travelling alone and using public transport again that day: Buy the €17.50 Airport-City-Day-Ticket and take the S-Bahn.

Travelling as a group of two or more: Buy the €32.60 group ticket. It covers up to five adults all day and costs less than two individual day tickets.

Landing at night: The S8 runs around the clock, so you can still get into town.

Three or four people with lots of luggage: A fixed-fare taxi costs €96 to the area around Hauptbahnhof.

Practical tips for Munich airport transport

Check engineering works. Closures change from week to week in autumn 2026, so check your travel date before setting off.

Validate your ticket. An unstamped ticket counts as having no ticket, and the penalty is €60.

Choose your hotel with the connection in mind. Staying near Hauptbahnhof puts the S1, S8 and airport bus close by. You can see hotels near Munich Hauptbahnhof here.

Taking an early flight? A night near the airport can save you an early morning S-Bahn journey. You can see hotels near Munich Airport here.

For help choosing a neighbourhood, I have written a guide to where to stay in Munich. Once you’re in the city, my guide to the best things to do in Munich covers what to see, from Marienplatz, the Residenz and the beer halls to day trips to Neuschwanstein, the Zugspitze and Salzburg.

The post Munich Airport to the City Centre - Transport Guide appeared first on Destination Well Known.

With a rich tapestry of architectural marvels, legendary German breweries, and lush green spaces, Munich offers a unique blend of the traditional and the contemporary. For the journey to your hotel, my guide to getting from Munich Airport to the city centre compares trains, buses and taxis.

Below, I’ll lead you through some of the best areas to stay in Munich and offer recommendations for hotels in various price ranges – especially selected for their location, great amenities, and value.

So, let’s delve into the guide on where to stay in Munich.

Best Areas in Munich

If you’re in a hurry or just want a quick overview, here it is:

• Altstadt-Lehel – The heart of history & culture
• Maxvorstadt – The intellectual and artistic hub
• Schwabing – Bohemian vibe & engaging nightlife
• Glockenbachviertel – Trendy & LGBT-friendly
• Haidhausen – Tranquil & picturesque

Click on the area’s name above to see current hotel offers in the mentioned areas in Munich.

The guide continues below, where I delve deeper into these areas and recommend places to stay.

1. Altstadt-Lehel – The Heart of History & Culture

When the echoes of the past beckon, Altstadt-Lehel answers. The city’s heart beats strongest in this central Munich district, with centuries-old buildings whispering tales of bygone eras.

Wander through the cobblestone streets, and you’ll stumble upon iconic sites like the Marienplatz, Munich Residenz, and the majestic Frauenkirche.

Yet, amidst the antique charm, modern cafes and boutiques find their home, crafting a delightful blend of the old and new.

Whether sipping a coffee at a quaint cafe, admiring the architectural splendour, or diving into Munich’s storied past at a local museum, Altstadt-Lehel offers a rich and authentic Bavarian experience.

See the best hotels in Altstadt here.

In Altstadt-Lehel, every corner holds a narrative waiting to be discovered.

The cobbled pathways narrate tales from the Middle Ages, while the majestic structures are a testament to Munich’s rich architectural heritage.

The aroma of freshly brewed coffee from quaint local cafes mingles with the ancient allure, offering a timeless retreat within the bustling city.

As the sun sets, the area transforms. The quiet alleyways come alive with the chatter from cozy wine taverns and the soft melodies of street musicians, encapsulating the enduring charm of Munich.

Places to stay in Altstadt-Lehel

The area houses some of Munich’s most prestigious hotels, where traditional Bavarian hospitality meets modern luxury. Whether it’s the view of the iconic town hall’s Glockenspiel from your window or the easy access to the city’s historic sites, staying in Altstadt-Lehel is akin to living in the pages of a richly illustrated history book.

Let’s explore some of the best hotels here in the city centre of Munich.

Right in the heart of Munich’s old town, you’ll find DO & CO Hotel München, a true gem for those seeking a luxurious stay.

Its location is hard to beat, as you’ll be within walking distance of the city’s most popular attractions and shopping streets.

Despite the hotel’s luxurious status, you might be surprised at how affordable it can be if you travel on the right dates.

I was certainly taken aback when I saw the price on the booking site.

Previous guests especially highlight the outstanding service, exquisite dining experiences, and comfortable rooms.

If you’re headed to Munich and want an unforgettable experience, DO & CO Hotel München should definitely be on your list.

See more photos and book here.

Located in the heart of Munich’s centre, Mercure Hotel München Altstadt is ideal for those wishing to combine comfort with a central location.

This 3.5-star hotel boasts modern amenities and a welcoming ambiance, making it a favourite among many visitors.

Guests often highlight the friendly service, clean rooms, and the hotel’s central location as top-notch.

When you stay here, you’re just a stone’s throw away from Munich’s main attractions, shopping areas, and restaurants.

Mercure Hotel München Altstadt is a hidden gem in the city’s heart, ensuring you a pleasant and memorable stay in Munich.

See more photos and book here.

The next hotel in Munich offers an authentic German experience, from its traditional architecture to its cosy atmosphere.

Hotel Am Markt is housed in a historic building and provides guests with a blend of comfort and old-world charm, creating an atmosphere that feels homey and unique.

Even though it’s one of the more budget-friendly options in Munich, Hotel Am Markt does not compromise on the quality of the stay.

The rooms are tastefully decorated, clean, and spacious.

Its central location makes it easy to explore the city, and the staff is always ready to assist with tips and recommendations.

See more photos and book here.

2. Maxvorstadt – The Intellectual and Artistic Hub

Step into Maxvorstadt and you’ll step into Munich’s brain and cultural heart. Known as the “Brain of Munich,” Maxvorstadt hosts two major universities and many museums, galleries, and libraries.

Here, the air buzzes with intellectual discussions, and the city’s artistic spirit thrives amidst the classical architecture.

From the art collections in Alte Pinakothek and Neue Pinakothek to the thought-provoking exhibits at the Museum Brandhorst, Maxvorstadt invites you on a journey through time and imagination.

See the best hotels in Maxvorstadt here.

At night, the district reveals its bohemian soul. The bars and pubs become the gathering spots for the city’s intellectuals, artists, and students, making Maxvorstadt a melting pot of ideas and creativity.

Places to stay in Maxvorstadt

The accommodation options here range from stylish boutique hotels to charming guesthouses, each offering a unique perspective of this intellectual hub.

Here are some of my favourite hotels in Maxvorstadt.

Rocco Forte The Charles Hotel is a premier luxury hotel ideally situated in Maxvorstadt, just a stone’s throw from Munich’s Altstadt.

The hotel stands out with its elegant architecture and stylish interior. One of the hotel’s highlights is the indoor pool, providing a perfect oasis of calm amidst the city’s hustle and bustle.

The rooms are equipped with modern conveniences, exquisite decor, and offer breathtaking views of the city.

Its central location ensures that guests can easily explore both Maxvorstadt and the nearby Altstadt.

See more photos and book here.

In the heart of Maxvorstadt, elaya hotel munich city, formerly known as Arthotel ANA Diva, is a cozy haven offering pet-friendly accommodations.

Guests commend the central location, the comfortable settings, and the friendly staff, encapsulating a promise of a pleasant return. The sentiment, “I’ll be back,” resonates among satisfied guests.

With prices starting from a modest 100 euros per night, this hotel is a blend of comfort and affordability, making it an excellent choice for various travellers.

See more photos and book here.

AdvaStay by KING’s is the epitome of budget-friendly elegance.

With a price tag of around 100 euros per night this hotel offers a blend of comfort and affordability.

Guests have rated it an excellent 8.8/10, applauding its prime location merely 4 minutes away from the central train station, making it a convenient choice for travellers.

See more photos and book here.

3. Schwabing – Bohemian Vibe & Engaging Nightlife

Schwabing is where the free spirits of Munich converge. This lively district blends bohemian culture, night-time revelries, and a young, energetic ambience.

Schwabing blossoms into a playground for night owls as the sun dips below the horizon.

The rhythm of live music spills from the numerous bars and clubs, each with its unique ambience, ranging from the cosy and quaint to the vibrant and exhilarating.

See the best hotels in Schwabing here.

The Englischer Garten, one of the world’s largest urban parks, offers a peaceful retreat where locals and visitors alike can enjoy a leisurely stroll or a paddleboat ride on the serene lake.

The district’s rich literary and artistic history adds depth to its contemporary, lively atmosphere. This is where poets and playwrights of yore found their muse, and today’s artists come to find inspiration.

Places to stay in Schwabing

Accommodations in Schwabing range from modern, stylish hotels to charming, historic guesthouses, offering a slice of Munich’s vivacious spirit to every visitor.

Here are 3 of my favourite places to stay in Schwabing.

The Munich Marriott Hotel offers a blend of modern comfort and Munich’s vibrant culture. Its contemporary design, infused with a touch of American hospitality, ensures a memorable stay​.

With four on-site restaurants and two cozy bars, your culinary journey is just a step away. The full-service spa provides a serene retreat, while nearby attractions like BMW Welt and Olympic Park enrich your Munich exploration​.

See more photos and book here.

Schwabinger Wahrheit by Geisel not only impresses with its contemporary architecture but also its well-appointed rooms, ensuring a comfortable stay.

One of the hotel’s major attractions is the unique rooftop pool, where guests can take a dip and relax.

After a day of sightseeing in the city, visitors can unwind in the pool or enjoy a drink at the pool bar.

See more photos and book here.

For those seeking a mix of modern charm and a relaxed vibe, HOtello Schwabing is the right place to stay in the Schwabing area.

The rooms are tastefully decorated with modern amenities, ensuring a pleasant stay for all visitors.

Beyond its impressive interior, HOtello Schwabing is also known for its cool ambiance that permeates the entire hotel, from the lobby to the lounge.

For those wanting to experience Munich from a trendy and comfortable place, HOtello Schwabing is an ideal choice. Plus, the stay here is (typically) significantly cheaper than in Altstadt.

See more photos and book here.

4. Glockenbachviertel – Trendy & LGBT+-Friendly

Glockenbachviertel is the epitome of cool in Munich. Known for its inclusive and diverse atmosphere, it’s a hub for the city’s LGBT+ community and a trendy, avant-garde culture stronghold.

See the best hotels in Glockenbachviertel here.

Here, every street and square buzzes with a youthful, progressive energy.

The stylish boutiques, modern art galleries, and hip eateries reflect the district’s forward-thinking and inclusive vibe.

By night, Glockenbachviertel comes alive with a dynamic nightlife scene, offering everything from relaxed wine bars to energetic dance clubs.

Places to stay in Glockenbachviertel

Let’s look at some of the best hotels in Munich’s party area.

The Flushing Meadows Hotel & Bar is where modern design meets comfort. This boutique hotel is a favourite among travellers looking to splurge a little.

With its signature loft rooms and a rooftop bar offering a stunning view of the city, it’s not just a place to stay but an experience.

Previous guests frequently write (in their reviews) about the trendy yet laid-back atmosphere that makes you want to lounge around all day.

See more photos & book here.

Convenience and comfort are the hallmarks of Hotel Olympic. Just two underground stops away from Munich Central Station, getting around is a breeze.

The rooms are tastefully decorated with floor-to-ceiling windows, letting in plenty of natural light. It’s the kind of place where good service and a hearty breakfast set the tone for a day of Munich exploration.

Guests often compliment the warm and friendly staff, who are always ready with a smile​.

See more photos & book here.

Living Hotel Prinzessin Elisabeth is a pocket-friendly choice without sacrificing comfort.

This apartment hotel offers spacious living arrangements, making it feel like a home away from home.

It’s a solid pick for travellers who keep an eye on their budget but do not want to compromise on a good night’s sleep.

The rating of 83/100 based on verified reviews echoes a promise of satisfaction without breaking the bank​.

See more photos & book here.

5. Haidhausen – Tranquil & Picturesque

Haidhausen, often dubbed the “French Quarter” due to its Parisian-style architecture, is a neighbourhood that allows you to slow down and savour the quieter side of Munich.

The district’s heart beats around Orleansplatz, where you can enjoy a leisurely cup of coffee amidst the backdrop of beautiful old buildings.

The streets here are lined with charming boutiques, artisan bakeries, and cosy cafes, where the aromas of fresh pastries fill the air.

As you wander, you’ll discover pockets of tranquillity in the lush gardens and along the idyllic paths by the River Isar.

See the best hotels in Haidhausen here.

In the evening, Haidhausen reveals a different facet with its elegant dining venues and classy bars, offering a sophisticated, relaxed nightlife experience.

Places to stay in Haidhausen

The accommodation options here range from luxurious hotels to quaint bed and breakfasts, all nestled within this peaceful enclave yet a short ride from the city centre of Munich.

JAMS Music Hotel Munich is where every music lover would want to lay their head.

This hotel blends serenity and urban life, located beside the tranquil Maximiliansanlagen Park and just a five-minute jaunt from Munich’s bustling city centre.

The rooms are stylish, mirroring the cool ambience of the entire hotel. Guests have particularly enjoyed the music theme that resonates throughout the hotel, making their stay a unique experience.

See more photos & book here.

Holiday Inn Munich – Leuchtenbergring is a comfortable haven in Munich.

It’s only a few tram stops from the Old Town and Opera House, making it a convenient base for your exploration.

Previous guests talk about the tasty and generous breakfast buffet that kickstarts their day on a high note.

See more photos & book here.

Motel One München-East Side is a budget-friendly choice without skimping on style or comfort.

A mere five-minute walk from the Ostbahnhof station, this hotel is well-connected to the city’s highlights.

The modern rooms, 24-hour front desk, and stylish lounge ensure a pleasant stay.

A guest review’s phrase “Like the price, love the design” encapsulates what this hotel offers.

It’s a solid pick for travellers keeping an eye on their budget but still desiring a trendy stay​.

See more photos & book here.

Munich is a city with a rich tapestry of experiences awaiting your discovery. Each neighborhood we’ve explored offers a unique flavor of Munich’s diverse culture, history, and modernity.

Whether you’re drawn to the historical allure of Altstadt-Lehel, the bohemian rhythm of Schwabing, or the tranquil charm of Haidhausen, a corner of Munich will resonate with your wanderlust.

Take your pick and dive into the multifaceted magic that Munich generously offers. Your Bavarian adventure is just a booking away.

If Munich is one stop on a longer train trip through Central Europe, you can also read my guide to where to stay in Zurich. Once you’ve found your base, my guide to the best things to do in Munich covers what to see in the city, from Marienplatz, the Residenz and the beer halls to day trips to Neuschwanstein, the Zugspitze and Salzburg.

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