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Munich travel guide

Germany’s third largest city has a personality all its own. Wander up to St Peter’s Church on the hill between Rindermarkt and Marienplatz and you’ll be treated to a magnificent view of the city. Where to first? Munich has many delights to explore, from the elaborate Glockenspiel cuckoo clock in the city’s town hall to the slick BMW showroom and the beautiful Englischer Garten. Best of all, Munich’s obsession with beer means that the city is full of places to enjoy a relaxing cold brew, from city terraces to lakeside beer gardens sheltered by ancient trees. If you’re planning a visit, explore our Munich travel guide and find out how to make the most of your time in Bavaria’s capital. We’ve collected the best tips from our travel experts, and have all sorts of suggestions for things to do, the best time to travel, where to stay in Munich, getting around and more.

Where to stay

Deciding where to stay in Munich can help you ensure you see all the sites the city has to offer. Whether you want to tour amazing palaces, take in museums and cultural experiences or find some of the best restaurants in the city, there’s no shortage of things to do.  The public transport system here means finding either affordable hotels or luxury places to stay in Munich is easy – you’ll never be a long journey from any of the attractions you’d like to visit.

Things to do

With so many things to do in Munich, it’s a good idea to take the time to plan your itinerary. Attractions include historical sights, cathedrals, castles and concert halls, as well as breathtaking natural scenery. The shopping in Munich covers every style, from designer labels to vintage treasures and markets. Rich in art and culture, Munich is a wonderful city to explore at any time of the year.

Travel tips

Travelling to any international destination requires a little forward planning, but these Munich travel tips will help you prepare for your stay. Munich is very clean and easy to navigate, from the historical landmarks to the beautiful parklands. Pack your passport and your euros and get ready to experience an amazing city. ...

Getting Around

As you would expect in a city of its size, Munich transport options are plentiful. Getting around is affordable, should you choose to walk, hire a bike, or make use of public transport.  As it’s a clean and compact city, you can take the time to wander and explore Munich on foot. Like many European cities, bikeways are common, so bike hire is another fantastic way to explore. Hop aboard the S-Bahn or take a bus to some of the city’s most iconic sights, from museums to castles and the beautiful Bavarian surrounds.

Where to eat

Aside from the beauty of the city, Munich food and drink is one of the most exciting things to explore. Try traditional Bavarian dishes such as weisswurst (veal and pork sausage) and schweinsbraten (roast pork), or step into some of the most extravagant beer halls in the city. Enjoy a schmalznudel, a type of Bavarian pastry, in a cosy Munich cafe or taste leberkase, a loaf of sausage with mustard and soft bread.  From the restaurants of Old Town to the riverside cafes of Glockenbachviertel, you’ll have no trouble satisfying your hunger (or your sweet tooth!) during your time in Munich.

Shopping

Munich shopping varies from high-end shopping districts to open-air markets stocking giftwares, souvenirs and second-hand goods. You’ll find designer brands like Prada and Tiffany on Residenzstrasse, or shop in the many gorgeous boutiques of Maximilianstrasse. Browse Stachus Passagen, Europe’s largest underground shopping centre, or head to Schwabing for jewellery you’ll be able to treasure for years to come. Whatever you’re shopping for, you’ll find the right places to browse and buy.

Best time to travel

A continental climate means that Munich weather features hot summers and cold winters. If you plan to visit during Oktoberfest, remember to bring some warm clothes. Low season in Munich (outside of the Christmas and holiday season) means less crowds, but the cold weather will have set in.  The best time to travel to Munich very much depends on your plans during your visit – whether you want to explore Christmas markets, enjoy the beautiful parklands, or enjoy a cold beer in a traditional beer garden.

Parks

When it’s time to escape the hustle and bustle, head off to explore Munich’s parks and squares dotted around the city. From the English Garden (Englischer Garten), a 360ha park filled with greenery, ponds, a wave pool and laidback beer gardens, to the Hofgarten, a beautiful park behind one of the busiest squares in Munich, you have plenty of opportunity to explore the city’s tranquil side. Be sure to pay a visit to the Angel of Peace, and take a moment to try and snap the perfect picture just as the sun goes down.