Munich blog: The ultimate Munich travel guide for all kinds of visitors

Traveling to Munich, the capital city of Bavaria, Germany, is famous for its harmonious combination of history and modernity. This city is an important cultural and economic center, notable for its beautiful architectural works such as the Notre Dame Cathedral and Nymphenburg Palace. Munich is also home to the world’s largest beer festival, Oktoberfest, which attracts millions of visitors each year. With a modern transportation system, green parks and unique cuisine, Munich is an ideal destination for all visitors. Now, let’s check out Munich blog with The ultimate Munich travel guide for all kinds of visitors below!

Best time to travel to Munich and festivals not to be missed

Munich is a great travel destination all year round, but the best time to visit this city depends on your personal preferences for weather and activities. Because it is located in the South, the weather will be a bit warmer than some northern cities such as Berlin or Hamburg. Here are some suggestions for the best time to visit Munich:

Spring (March – May)

• Weather: Cool and pleasant, trees are budding, cherry blossoms are blooming.
• Activities: Visit parks and gardens such as the English Garden (Englischer Garten) and Shinjuku Gyoen Imperial Garden. Highlights include the Frühlingsfest, a smaller version of Oktoberfest, which takes place in April and May.

Summer (June – August)

• Weather: Warm and sunny, ideal for outdoor activities.
• Activities: Attend cultural and musical events, explore museums and historical sites, enjoy beer at the biergarten. Be sure to attend the Summer Festival at Nymphenburg Palace and outdoor events at Olympiapark.

Autumn (September – November)

• Weather: Cool, leaves turn yellow and red, beautiful scenery.
• Activities: Join the world-famous Oktoberfest festival in late September and early October, enjoy autumn specialties. This time people come to Munich mainly for Oktoberfest, the world’s largest beer festival, attracting millions of visitors from all over.

Winter (December – February)

• Weather: Cold, possibly snowy, Christmas atmosphere is everywhere.
• Activities: Visit Christmas markets, ice skating, enjoy warm food and drinks. Famous Christmas markets such as the Christmas Market at Marienplatz, with cozy atmosphere and many traditional handicrafts.

The best time to travel to Munich is from late May to early October, when the weather is warm and there are many festivals and events taking place. However, winter with Christmas markets also brings a unique and cozy experience for visitors, the streets are decorated splendidly everywhere.

Munich travel guide: How to get to Munich from cities in Europe?

There are currently no direct flights to Munich from Vietnam. To get to Munich from other cities in Europe, you can choose many different means of transport. Here are some travel experiences:

Getting to Munich by Plane

Airlines such as Lufthansa and Air Berlin offer fast domestic flights between major cities in Germany. In addition, you can easily fly from other cities in Europe to travel to Munich easily with only 1-2 hours of flight.

• Airport: Munich has Franz Josef Strauss International Airport (MUC), connecting to many major cities.
• Airlines: Low-cost airlines such as Ryanair, EasyJet, and major airlines such as Lufthansa often have direct flights to Munich.
• Time: Flight time from European cities usually takes only 1-2 hours.

Travel to Munich by Train

The Deutsche Bahn (DB) Railway System offers fast and comfortable trains from many European cities such as Vienna, Zurich, Prague and Paris. Deutsche Bahn is famous for its high-quality and punctual service, providing a comfortable experience for passengers throughout the journey. Traveling to Munich by train ensures you a beautiful sightseeing experience and there are frequent day trips. Travel time ranges from 2-6 hours depending on the starting point in which European city.

In addition, if you travel from other cities in Europe, the simplest way is to book tickets through Trainline.com to find trains to Munich, or travel between German cities. This website is extremely convenient, searching for most train routes in Europe.

Travel to Munich by Bus and Car

Buses such as FlixBus, Eurolines are popular bus companies with affordable prices. The advantage of buses is low cost, many routes from neighboring cities. However, the travel time may be longer than the train (from 4-10 hours), but it is suitable for those with limited budgets.

Germany’s Autobahn is famous and convenient. Therefore, renting a car to travel to Germany and to Munich gives you flexibility in your itinerary and allows you to explore other destinations along the way. Note that you should check the traffic laws and parking regulations in Germany.

Transportation and public transport in Munich

How to get from Munich airport to the city center

Getting to the city center by S-Bahn

The S-Bahn is Munich’s rail network, which runs both above ground and underground. From Munich Airport, you can take the S1 or S8 to the city centre.

Trains depart from Munich Airport every 10 minutes and take around 40 minutes to München Hauptbahnhof (Munich Main Station). A single ticket costs around €11.50 (the standard fare for a one-way ticket from the airport), but you can save money by buying a group ticket, which can be discounted.

When you land, follow the signs with a green circle and a white ‘S’ to the S-Bahn. You can buy tickets from the DB ticket machines at the airport.

Getting to Munich center by bus

The Lufthansa Express Bus is another reliable option for getting from the airport to Munich city centre. It’s also a bit cheaper than the S-Bahn. A one-way ticket costs €15 per person for a 45-minute journey to Munich Central Station, with trains running every 20 minutes. You can buy online here.

Getting Around Munich by Public Transport

Using Public Transport

Munich has an extensive public transport system, which includes a network of underground trains (U-Bahn), suburban trains (S-Bahn), trams and buses. Underground stations are marked with signs that show a white “U” on a blue background. S-Bahn suburban lines are marked with a white “S” on a green background. Tram and bus stops are marked with a green “H” inside a green circle on a yellow background.

All S-Bahn suburban lines pass through the city centre and connect Munichs Central Station (Hauptbahnhof) with East Station (Ostbahnhof) with popular tourist attractions such as Marienplatz and Karlsplatz in between. This makes travelling around Munich by train extremely easy, whether for sightseeing within the city or for a day trip outside the city.

Munich travel guide: Types of public transport tickets

The same ticket is valid for all forms of public transport in Munich. You do not need different tickets if you travel from train, tram to bus. Tickets can be purchased from the blue vending machines at U- and S-Bahn stations, at many tram and bus stops, and on many buses and trams inside.

Note: Before boarding the first train, your ticket must be validated – you need to insert it into the small ticket dispensers found at the entrances to the U- and S-Bahn tracks or on trams and buses. You will be fined € 60 if you are caught boarding a train/bus without a valid ticket. The Munich Public Transport Network (MVV) information office is located at the Hauptbahnhof (central railway station) and the Marienplatz underground where you can get help if needed.

There are quite a few different types of tickets such as Single trip tickets (called “Einzelfahrt”), Stripe tickets (called “Streifenkarte”) and Day tickets (called “Tageskarte”). The rules for using these different types of tickets are quite complicated.

Day tickets: If you are traveling to Munich alone or in 2 people, the Munich Day Tickets are the best option. This type of ticket is simpler and generally cheaper than the other two. It allows unlimited travel on all U-Bahn, S-Bahn trains, trams and buses from the time the ticket is validated until 6am the following day.

You also need to choose between different types of day tickets, depending on where you want to go and how many people you have. Simply put: When traveling alone, choose the Day Ticket Single. When traveling with at least one other person (friend, wife), choose the Day Ticket Group. Up to five adults can travel together for the same price. It is also very beneficial for families: Two children aged 6-14 are counted as one person (so 2 ​​adults and 6 children can travel together on one ticket).

Single ticket (Einzelfahrt): suitable for a one-way trip, valid for three hours. A regular trip within the Munich city area M 3.90 Euro, for trips outside Munich the price depends on the area of ​​the destination. Single-trip tickets in special cases can be cheaper than a day ticket, for example you arrive at Munich Central Station in the evening and want to travel by public transport to your hotel = just one trip.

There is also a special version of the Single-trip Ticket: the Short-distance Ticket (Kurzstrecke), which is good for up to four stops on all means of transport, but only two of these stops on the U- or S-Bahn or XBus, valid for one hour: 1.90 Euro. Press the button on the vending machine marked “K” = Kurzstrecke.

Striped Ticket (Streifenkarte): This ticket is a slight discount compared to the Single-trip Ticket, you can save a few cents but the handling is more complicated. So I advise you not to waste your time studying complicated rules just to save a few pennies.

Munich travel zone classification and ticket prices

The MVV area is currently divided into 7 different zones. The price of the day ticket depends on the departure and arrival stations. For tourists, you only need to buy a Day Ticket for the Munich city area, which is the white zone M. All of Munich’s attractions (e.g. the Allianz-Arena, Butenburg Castle in the west of Munich) are located in this zone.

Zones 1 to 11 (or since December 12) extend around zone M. Only if you plan to take the S-Bahn to attractions outside the city area (e.g. to Lake Starnberg, to Dachau or to Schleißheim Palace) should you determine which ticket is appropriate. The ticket class and price of the Day Ticket depend on the zone with the furthest destination.

Day ticket price for one person (Single Day Ticket): Travel only in the white zone of the city M = Euro 9.20

Day ticket price for a group of 2 to 5 people (Group Day Ticket): Travel only in the white zone of the city M Euro 17.80. The further you go, the higher the ticket price will be.

For children (6-14 years old), there is a special day ticket, valid in all zones. Price 3.60 Euro.

Note: There are S-Bahn stations in two zones. Depending on the direction you want to go, you can choose the zone that offers cheaper tickets. You should check the information about the zones on the internet, the MVV website or download the app “MVG Fahrinfo Munich” to have a reasonable plan for your sightseeing trip.

MVV Travel Tickets and Additional Travel Benefits

City Tour Card Munich: This card costs a little more than a day ticket, and gives free use of all MVV transport (S-Bahn, U-Bahn, trams, buses) but also offers additional discounts on some museums and attractions. The big advantage over a day ticket is that it can be used for 24 hours, 48 ​​hours, 3 days, 4 days or 5 days. You can buy the ticket at all ticket vending machines or here.

München Card: (Munich Card) is very similar to the Munich City Tour Card, but costs a little more than a day ticket. It also gives free use of all MVV transport (S-Bahn, U-Bahn, trams, buses) and offers additional discounts on entrance to some museums and other attractions (e.g. the Olympic Tower). And you can also buy tickets for 1 day, 2 days, 3 days, 4 days or 5 days, buy online here.

Munich City Pass: This is the most beneficial but also the most expensive card, allowing free use of all MVV transport (S-Bahn, U-Bahn, trams, buses) and free entry to most museums and palaces in Munich as well as free or discounted entry to many attractions and tours. The pass is purchased by the number of days, however, the big difference between the City Pass and the München Card or City Tour Card is that the City Pass is for one person only and not for a group ticket. Tickets can only be purchased at MVG counters in the central station and Marienplatz underground or online here.

Where to stay when traveling to Munich?

When traveling to Munich, you have a wide range of areas and hotels to choose from depending on your preferences and budget. Here are some suggestions for popular areas and hotels:

Altstadt (Old Town)

Close to major attractions such as Marienplatz, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Residenz Palace. This area has many restaurants, cafes, and shopping, making it easy to get to sightseeing and entertainment. Hotels to consider include:

• Hotel Bayerischer Hof: Luxurious 5-star hotel with high-end amenities. (agoda, booking)
• Platzl Hotel: 4-star hotel with traditional Bavarian style and great location near Marienplatz. (agoda, booking)
• Hotel Torbräu: 4-star hotel with cozy atmosphere and rich history. (agoda, booking)

Maxvorstadt

This area is close to major museums such as the Alte Pinakothek, Neue Pinakothek, and the German Museum. This is a cultural and educational area with many cafes and restaurants. Hotels to consider:

• The Charles Hotel: 5-star hotel with modern facilities and excellent service.
• Hotel Europa: 4-star hotel with modern style and convenient location. (agoda, booking)

Schwabing

This Schwabing area is very lively with many bars, restaurants, and shops. Especially close to Englischer Garten park, one of the largest parks in Europe. Hotels to consider:

• Fleming’s Hotel München-Schwabing: 4-star hotel with modern design and convenient location. (agoda, booking)
• Pullman Munich: 4-star hotel with modern facilities and comfortable space. (agoda, booking)

Ludwigsvorstadt-Isarvorstadt

A diverse area with many restaurants, bars and importantly close to Theresienwiese, the venue of Oktoberfest, it is a good place to stay if you are in Munich to attend this famous beer festival. Hotels you can consider:

• Eurostars Book Hotel: 4-star hotel with modern design and location near the main station. (agoda, booking)
• Sofitel Munich Bayerpost: 5-star luxury hotel with excellent service. Courtyard by Marriott Munich City Center: 4-star hotel with modern facilities and convenient location. (agoda, booking)

Food and delicacies when traveling to Munich

Hofbräuhaus

Munich’s most famous beer hall, where you can enjoy traditional beer and typical Bavarian dishes. Come here to immerse yourself in live music and a bustling atmosphere all day long.

Enjoy draft beer and 2 famous dishes Roasted knuckle pork and sausages of the 400-year-old restaurant. During peak hours, it is difficult to find a seat even though the restaurant has a capacity of 3,000 people. Every now and then, there is singing and the sound of clinking glasses from a table singing along to the band.

Typical dishes in Munich

Munich is a city famous for its rich and traditional Bavarian cuisine. Here are some typical dishes you should not miss when coming to Munich:

Weisswurst (White Sausage): White sausage made from veal and pork, usually boiled and served with sweet mustard and pretzel bread. This dish is usually enjoyed in the morning or lunch, not dinner.

Pretzel (Pretzels): Soft, crispy, twisted bread with a soft inside, often served with butter or sausage. This is a popular dish and can be found everywhere in the city.

Schweinshaxe (Roasted Pork Leg): Crispy grilled pork leg, usually served with sauerkraut and potato dumplings (Kartoffelknödel). This dish is often served in traditional restaurants and beer halls.

Breznknödel (Pretzel Dumplings): Dumplings made from pretzel bread, often served with sauce and side dishes such as roast pork. This is a popular dish in Bavarian cuisine.

Leberkäse (Liver Pate): A type of liver pate, usually grilled and sliced, served with bread and mustard. You can find this in fast food stalls or small eateries.

Spätzle (Egg Noodles): Homemade egg noodles, often served with cheese and fried onions (Käsespätzle) or as a side dish with meat. This is a popular dish in the southern region of Germany.

Dampfnudel (Sweet Dumplings): Soft sweet dumplings, often served with vanilla sauce or fruit jam. This is a very popular traditional dessert.

Sauerkraut (Sour Cabbage): Pickled cabbage, often served with sausages, pork or other dishes. This is a popular side dish in many traditional meals.

Obatzda (Mixed Cheese): Cheese mixed with butter, onions, paprika and other spices, often served with pretzels. This dish is often served in beer halls and is a great accompaniment to beer.

Apfelstrudel (Apple Rolls): Apple rolls, often served with cream or vanilla sauce. This is a very popular dessert in Bavarian cuisine.

The above dishes all represent the typical flavors and quintessence of Bavarian cuisine. When coming to Munich, don’t forget to enjoy these delicious dishes for a complete and complete culinary experience.

Famous tourist attractions in Munich

Traveling to Munich is to visit a city with a rich history and diverse culture. Here is a list of famous attractions that you should explore when coming to Munich.

Marienplatz Square

Munich’s main square with the prominent Neues Rathaus. This is also the Old Town with many architectural works, bustling main attractions, a few minutes away from the central station. Every day, the Glockenspiel clock on the town hall attracts many tourists with its mechanical doll performance.

Here you can visit the Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus) and the Frauenkirche church – the symbol of Munich with two soaring twin towers. This is the main church of the Archdiocese of Munich and Freising. Remember to go up and enjoy the panoramic view of the city from the top of the tower.

Nymphenburg Palace

The summer palace of the Bavarian royal family, famous for its Baroque architecture and beautiful gardens. Remember to visit the Carriage Museum (Marstallmuseum), the Photo Gallery of King Ludwig I. How to get to Nymphenburg:

• S-Bahn (suburban railway) to “Laim”, then take a bus to “Schloss Nymphenburg”
• U-Bahn (subway) to “Rotkreuzplatz”, then take a bus to “Schloss Nymphenburg”

Englischer Garten (English Park)

One of the largest urban parks in the world, famous for its promenades, outdoor beer gardens and the Isar River running through it. Highlights include the Chinese Tower (Chinesischer Turm) and the Seehaus beer hall. You can reach the Park by S-Bahn or U-Bahn by going to Marienplatz, or by bus 54 and 154 to Chinesischer Turm.

Residenz

The largest palace in Munich, once the residence of the Bavarian kings. Today, the Residenz is a museum filled with works of art and historical treasures. Be sure to visit the Hall of Mirrors (Allerheiligen-Hofkirche) and the Cuvilliés Theatre.

Viktualienmarkt

A famous open-air food market with stalls selling all kinds of fresh food, local specialties and delicious dishes. This is one of the best places to immerse yourself in the local Bavarian culture, experience the Beer Hall, the flower stalls.

BMW Welt and BMW Museum

BMW showroom and museum, where you can explore the history and technology of BMW. Those who are fans of German cars cannot miss these famous museums with car models, annual car exhibitions.

Allianz Arena

Modern stadium, home of Bayern Munich football club, the Bavarian Tigers. The stadium with unique architecture stands out with its ability to change color when viewed from the outside. Remember to buy the Allianz Arena Stadium Tour here and visit the FC Bayern Museum.

If you have the chance, you should definitely experience a Bayern Munich match at the Allianz Arena, the stadium is always packed with spectators. Beer is served on site, watching football while drinking beer, a very German style.

Deutsches Museum

The world’s largest science and technology museum, with many interactive exhibitions and historical artifacts. The highlight of the museum is the Aerospace and Energy Technology Exhibition Area.

Odeonsplatz Square

A large square with many outstanding architectural works such as the Theatinerkirche church, Feldherrnhalle and Hofgarten park with Baroque and neoclassical architecture.

Theresienwiese

The area where the annual Oktoberfest beer festival is held, attracting millions of visitors from all over the world. The beer festival is in October but the experience is that you can come here to participate in the spring fair – Munich Spring Festival. This is a smaller festival than Oktoberfest but also has an amusement park with traditional and modern games, beer everywhere.

Munich is a vibrant and culturally diverse city where you can explore historical heritage, enjoy great food and participate in vibrant festivals.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Munich you can refer to

• Munich Travel Card
• Munich City Pass
• City Tour Card Munich
• SEA LIFE Munich Admission Ticket
• Munich Classical Concert Ticket at Old Court Chapel with Optional Bavarian Dinner
• Neuschwanstein Castle Entry Ticket in Schwangau
• Munich Grand Circle Hop-On Hop-Off City Tour
• Bavarian Beer Experience in Munich
• Discover Munich Walking Tour
• From Munich: Neuschwanstein & Linderhof Castle Full-Day Trip
• Munich Hop-On Hop-Off Tour: 1-Day or 2-Day Ticket
• Munich: Third Reich & WWII Tour Walking Tour
• From Munich: Neuschwanstein Castle Full-Day Trip
• Munich: Old Town & Viktualienmarkt City Walk in German
• Munich 3-Hour Guided Bike Tour
• From Munich: Neuschwanstein Castle & Linderhof Premium Tour
• From Munich: Rothenburg and Nördlinger Ries Day Trip by Bus
• From Munich: Salzburg, St. Wolfgang, and the Salzkammergut

Read more Munich travel guide here.