Things to Do in Munich, Germany

Munich, the capital of Bavaria, is a captivating blend of traditional German culture and modern sophistication. Famous for Oktoberfest, world-class museums, and stunning architecture, this southern German city offers visitors an authentic taste of Bavarian life with its beer gardens, lederhosen-clad locals, and hearty cuisine. The city seamlessly combines its rich history, evident in landmarks like the Marienplatz and Neuschwanstein Castle nearby, with contemporary attractions and a thriving arts scene. Beyond its reputation as a beer lover's paradise, Munich serves as an excellent base for exploring the Bavarian Alps, fairy-tale castles, and charming Alpine towns. The city's efficient public transportation, walkable historic center, and proximity to both cultural attractions and natural wonders make it an ideal destination for travelers seeking a quintessentially German experience with easy access to some of Europe's most beautiful landscapes.

Top Things to Do in Munich

Neuschwanstein Castle Day Trip

Visit the iconic fairy-tale castle that inspired Disney's Sleeping Beauty Castle, perched dramatically in the Bavarian Alps. This 19th-century Romanesque Revival palace, built by King Ludwig II, offers breathtaking views and opulent interiors. The journey through the Alpine countryside is equally spectacular, making this one of Germany's most popular attractions.

Booking Tip: Book tickets online in advance (€15-20 for castle entry) as they sell out quickly, especially in summer. Tours from Munich cost €45-65 and include transportation. Early morning departures are best to avoid crowds, and combination tickets with Hohenschwangau Castle offer better value.

Traditional Beer Garden Experience

Immerse yourself in authentic Bavarian culture at one of Munich's legendary beer gardens like Augustiner-Bräu or Hofbräuhaus. These outdoor venues serve fresh local brews alongside traditional dishes like pretzels, sausages, and roasted chicken. The communal atmosphere, long wooden tables, and live folk music create an unforgettable cultural experience.

Booking Tip: No reservations needed for most beer gardens - just find a spot at communal tables. A liter of beer costs €8-12, and meals range from €10-25. Visit during weekday afternoons for a more local experience, or evenings for livelier atmosphere with music.

Historic City Walking Tour

Explore Munich's historic center including Marienplatz with its famous Glockenspiel, the Gothic Frauenkirche cathedral, and the Viktualienmarkt food market. These guided walks reveal the city's fascinating history from medieval times through WWII and reconstruction. You'll discover hidden courtyards, architectural gems, and hear stories that bring the city's past to life.

Booking Tip: Free walking tours operate daily (tip-based, €10-15 suggested) while private tours cost €150-250 for groups. Morning tours are less crowded, and many companies offer specialized themes like WWII history or Christmas markets (seasonal). Book online for guaranteed English-speaking guides.

Bavarian Alps and Eagle's Nest Tour

Journey to Hitler's former mountain retreat at Eagle's Nest (Kehlsteinhaus) in Berchtesgaden, now offering panoramic Alpine views and historical insights. The dramatic mountain setting provides stunning scenery, while the site's complex history offers important lessons about WWII. The drive through Bavarian countryside showcases Germany's natural beauty.

Booking Tip: Full-day tours from Munich cost €55-85 including transportation and Eagle's Nest bus ticket (€27.60). Book April-October only as it's closed in winter. Choose small group tours for better experience, and bring warm clothes as temperatures drop significantly at altitude.

Traditional Bavarian Cooking Class

Learn to prepare authentic Bavarian specialties like schnitzel, spaetzle, and apple strudel in hands-on cooking classes led by local chefs. These interactive experiences often include market visits to select fresh ingredients and conclude with enjoying your creations paired with local beers or wines. It's a delicious way to connect with Bavarian culinary traditions.

Booking Tip: Classes cost €75-120 per person and last 3-4 hours including the meal. Book classes that include market tours for fuller experience. Evening classes often have better atmosphere, and some offer vegetarian options. Look for small group sizes (8-12 people) for more personal attention.

Getting There

Munich is easily accessible via Munich Airport (MUC), Germany's second-largest airport with excellent international connections. The airport is connected to the city center by S-Bahn trains (S1 and S8 lines) in about 40 minutes for €12.80, or by Lufthansa Airport Bus in 45 minutes for €11. Taxis cost €60-80 to the center. For those traveling within Europe, Munich's Hauptbahnhof (Central Station) is a major railway hub with high-speed connections to major cities like Berlin (4 hours), Vienna (4 hours), and Zurich (4.5 hours). The city is also well-connected by the Autobahn highway system for those driving.

Getting Around

Munich has an excellent public transportation system consisting of U-Bahn (subway), S-Bahn (suburban trains), trams, and buses operated by MVG. A day pass for the inner city zones costs €8.80, while single tickets are €3.70. The city center is very walkable, with most major attractions within a 15-minute walk of Marienplatz. Bike rentals are popular and widely available (€10-15/day), with extensive bike lanes throughout the city. Taxis are reliable but expensive, while ride-sharing services like Uber are also available.

Where to Stay

Altstadt (Old Town)

Maxvorstadt (Museum Quarter)

Schwabing (Bohemian Quarter)

Glockenbachviertel (Trendy District)

Lehel (Upscale Residential)

Near Hauptbahnhof (Train Station Area)

Food & Dining

Munich's food scene celebrates traditional Bavarian cuisine alongside international options. Traditional restaurants (Gasthäuser) serve hearty dishes like schweinebraten (roast pork), weisswurst (white sausage), and pretzels with local beers. The Viktualienmarkt offers excellent fresh produce, gourmet foods, and casual dining. For upscale dining, Munich has several Michelin-starred restaurants, while the Glockenbachviertel area offers trendy cafes and international cuisine. Don't miss trying local specialties at beer gardens, where the atmosphere is as important as the food. Breakfast culture is strong, with many cafes serving elaborate spreads until late morning.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Munich is late spring through early fall (May-October) when weather is pleasant and beer gardens are in full swing. Summer (June-August) offers the warmest weather and longest days but also the highest prices and crowds. September is ideal, featuring perfect weather, fewer tourists, and the famous Oktoberfest celebration. Winter can be magical, especially around Christmas markets in December, though weather is cold and some outdoor attractions close. Spring (April-May) offers mild weather, blooming landscapes, and moderate prices, making it excellent for sightseeing and day trips to the Alps.

Insider Tips

Buy a Munich City Pass for free public transport and discounts on attractions - it pays for itself if you visit 2-3 museums

Many museums are free on Sundays for EU residents and €1 for others - perfect for budget travelers

Bring your own food and drinks to beer gardens (except beer, which must be purchased) - it's a local tradition and saves money

Things to Do in Munich