MunichTravel Guide

Hauptbahnhof, or Munich Central Station, is the spot to book if you want affordable and convenient accommodation. While you might recognise some of the international budget hotel chains here, there are also a couple of independent hotels that offer fantastic value for money. A stay in this spot puts many attractions within convenient walking distance.

One of the most popular regions to stay in Munich is Ludwigsvorstadt-Isarvorstadt, with plenty of choice in accommodation. Enjoy some of the cultural experiences of Isarvorstadt, including Gartnerplatz theatre or the Marionette theatre. If you plan to stay here during December, the Christmas market draws many tourists – so book early!

While mostly residential areas, both Laim and Sendling offer some comfortable accommodation if you wish to get away from the tourist areas. Close to reliable public transport, staying in either of these districts is affordable; plus you'll be within a short distance to Marienplatz markets, Nymphenburg Palace and Englischer Garten.\

If you're looking for luxury, Schwabing and Maxvorstadt will be your best bet. International hotel chains, such as the Marriott and Mercure, can both be found in Schwabing, while 5-star Munich hotels in Maxvorstadt ensure you'll have a very comfortable stay.

Along with Ludwigsvorstadt-Isarvorstadt, Altstadt-Lehel is a popular spot for Munich accommodation. Here you'll find a range of apartment-style accommodation to suit all budgets, as well as luxury, 4-star and 3-star hotels. Public transport is readily available in the area, ensuring easy access to many attractions within Munich. Whether you want a touch of luxury or a cheap and cheerful place to stay, Altstadt-Lehel is a great base.

The summer residence of the Bavarian monarchs, Schloss Nymphenburg, or the Nymphenburg Palace, is one of the largest royal palaces in Europe. Within the palace grounds you'll find the Museum of Man and Nature (Museum Mensch und Natur), the Porcelain Museum, and 299ha of garden. Take a stroll through the grounds and see sculptures, streams, and landscaped gardens.

The Neo-Gothic New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus) offers amazing views across the city. The 85m-high tower houses an observation deck, from which you can see as far as the Alps. The world-famous Glockenspiel Munich, part of Town Hall, springs to life several times per day with figurines from history representing stories of Munich.

One of the most-visited castles in Europe, with some days attracting 10,000 visitors, Neuschwanstein Castle is a breathtaking sight. Built on the edge of a cliff, the castle of King Ludwig II is like something out of a fairytale. Marvel at the beautiful architecture, the spectacular location, and the luxurious furnishings. Just over an hour and a half's drive from Munich, it's well worth a day trip.

The largest museum of technology in the world, the Deutsches Museum in Munich is a must-see for lovers of technology and development. Filled with rare German aircraft, scientific demonstrations and almost every type of transport you can imagine, this museum is equally impressive and interesting. Take a guided tour or wander each department for yourself.

Constructed in 1836, Alte Pinakothek is designed with a castle appearance in mind. Home to a collection of paintings spanning the 14th through to the 18th Century, it's one of the oldest art galleries in the world. Here you can see works by artists such as Rembrandt, da Vinci, Raphael, and Albrecht Altdorfer.

Treat yourself to a tour fit for a king at Schleissheim Palace. The courtyard gardens have had many design features preserved, with stunning water features nestled among colourful garden beds. As if the castle itself is not beautiful enough, you can also browse works from the Bavarian State Painting Collections, which are housed within the castle.

The Frauenkirche is Munich's largest church, with room for up to 20,000 people, and is the city's most famous landmark. Built in a distinct baroque style, the cathedral is beautifully positioned within Munich's Old Town, and its impressive domed towers can be seen far and wide from across the city. It's a popular tourist attraction that is well worth visiting.

The beautiful grounds of Linderhof Palace can be found in the foothills of the Bavarian Alps. It was the only castle built by King Ludwig II of Bavaria that was finished when he was still alive – and his favourite. The oval dining room and entrance hall are stunning, regal in design and furnishings. The grounds are filled with eclectic buildings, a 30 metre tall fountain, and gorgeous grotto.

The largest museum in Munich, Residenzmuseum is found in the main palace of Bavarian rulers. Impressive and beautifully styled, a highlight of the museum is the Antiquarium, which is filled with statues and artworks featuring some of the most beautiful castles of Bavaria. Visitors to the Residenz can see stylings of Renaissance, Baroque, Neo-Classicist, and Rococo.

With permanent exhibitions dating back 90 years of history, the BMW Museum in Munich will have any car lover hooked. Explore seven different exhibition sections, from roadsters to art cars, or head over to the ‘Museum Bowl'. This wing of the museum houses temporary exhibitions, ensuring there's always something new to take in.

Munchner Stadtmuseum, or Munich City Museum, is home to many collections of historical value. Here you can learn everything you need to know about Munich's history, through almost every medium you can imagine. Permanent exhibitions include sculpture, portraits, furnishings, photographs and musical instruments, as well as examples of traditional marionette theatre.

Begin your search for the best meal in Munich's Old Town (the altstadt), where plenty of traditional dining is on offer. Hofbrauhaus, the oldest beer hall in the world, is a top pick. For casual restaurant dining, explore Schwabing – while Munich may have been considered conservative in the past, you'll find a variety of cuisine here, including Thai, Vietnamese, Indian and Ethiopian restaurants

Whether you need to refuel after a morning exploring museums, or you want to start your day with a coffee and breakfast, Munich cafes won't disappoint. You'll find plenty of options in Glockenbachviertel along the river, and also in Viktualienmarkt or nearby Elisabethmarkt. Coffee in Munich is best enjoyed with a franzbroetchen (a type of cinnamon pastry).

The traditional beer culture is just one reason to check out Munich bars and nightlife. A visit to one of the city's beer gardens is a must, particularly to sample steckerlfisch (grilled fish). Trendy cafe bars in the Glockenbach region are perfect for a nightcap, while a glass of wine in the artsy Theresienwiese area is a great way to finish a day of exploring.

Viktualienmarkt, found in the city centre, is one of the most famous food markets in Munich. Charcuterie, venison burgers and breads are best washed down with a Radler (a refreshing beer and lemonade blend). Christmas markets provide a fantastic opportunity to try some of Germany's best fare, including mulled wine, currywurst and caramelised almonds.

Visiting one of the Munich markets is a fantastic way to experience a little bit of everything. Viktualienmarkt, once a casual farmers' market, has now become one of the most popular markets for food, including fresh vegetables and fruit, small goods, and wine. Munich Christmas markets, in Marienplatz, are a beautiful tradition that simply must be experienced if you're travelling in Germany during December.

If a little holiday shopping is what your heart desires, Munich shopping centres will happily oblige. Visit Stachus Passagen for clothes, gifts, delicious foodie treats, and more. The Hofstatt, in the heart of Munich, is filled with fashion retailers, as well as many cafes and restaurants to satisfy any palate.

There are a number of shopping districts in Munich to try, whether you're searching for boutiques or you're keen to see what Munich fashion has to offer. The city centre, Maximilianstrasse and Glockenbachviertel are hotspots to unearth fashion from new designers. Meanwhile, the bohemian district of Schwabing will delight with boutiques, jewellery stores, and vintage shops.

Hop into one of the many Munich taxis for quick and convenient transport to your hotel, the airport, or any other destination. Taxis may be hailed, or you may prefer to use one of the many taxi ranks around the city. Fares are charged on a rate per kilometre, with a basic hire fare also included.

With pathways throughout the city, Munich bike hire is a convenient and fun way to explore the city at your own pace. In addition to more than 800km of pathways throughout the city, many parks have cycleways as well. A number of bike hire companies in Munich offer bikes to suit every rider.

Like most in Germany, the Munich public transport system is one of the easiest and quickest ways to get around. Public transport includes buses, trams and the S-Bahn and U-Bahn rail systems. There are several different travel zones, so a day pass is good value if you plan to take multiple trips during the day.

If you plan on walking Munich, the central district includes many sites you can take in comfortably in a day. There are many pedestrian zones and the city is wonderfully clean, so exploring Munich on foot is certainly a great way to see things at your own pace. Just be mindful that you will often cross cycling paths, so keep an eye out for bikes as you walk.

The English Garden (Englischer Garten) is the green heart of Munich. Stretching alongside the Isar River, the park takes its name from the English gardens it was inspired by. The park has more than 78km of pathways, green spaces for sport or soaking up the sunshine, and a huge beer garden where you can relax and enjoy some of the world's best beers. If you head to Eisbachwelle, you'll find year-round surfing in the Eisbach River, too!

Located behind the Odeonsplatz, Hofgarten is a beautiful Munich park filled with colourful gardens, fountains and a beautiful pavilion. Come to hear orchestral music, or find a sunny spot to relax. As the Hofgarten lies next to Munich Residenz, the park is a lovely spot to add to your tour, giving you a glimpse of the exquisite grounds.

Home to events throughout the year, Konigsplatz is where modern and classic meet. Catch a concert series, admire ancient Greek and Roman artworks, or sip a cold drink in the beer garden. During the summer, an open-air cinema features both new and old movies, bringing viewers from all over the city. Throughout the day, you can enjoy the sunshine in the garden or sit on the staircases of Konigsplatz.

One of the most recognisable squares in Munich, Odeonsplatz is named after the former concert hall, Odeon, which was destroyed in World War I. Take in the beauty of the square from the steps of Feldherrnhalle, positioned directly between two of Munich's historical treasures: the Theatinerkirche and Residenz. Admire the Neo-Classical buildings and the significance of the square itself.

It would be difficult to visit Munich and not appreciate the magnificent Angel of Peace (or Friedensengel). Atop a 23m column, the golden statue is a monument marking 25 years of peace following the end of the Franco-Prussian War. Holding an olive branch in one hand, the Angel is flanked by a fountain, which is spectacular when illuminated in the evening.