How to Have an Incredible Trip to Munich Germany

HOW TO HAVE AN INCREDIBLE TRIP TO MUNICH GERMANY

This blog post is all about the best things to do in Munich, Germany. This includes what to do in Munich, where to eat delicious vegan food in Munich, where to stay in Munich, and when to go to Munich. 

This was a girls’ trip for our Portugal Vegan Lady Group consisting of Christy, Lydia and me. We spent 4 days in lovely Munich the first week/weekend of December. Our goal was to check out as many Christmas markets and vegan restaurants as possible. We were able to cover an impressive amount of places during our short visit. This was my first time in Germany and I’ve got to say, I LOVE GERMANY! Munich is a truly fascinating city with loads of history, fun things to do and of course, incredible vegan restaurants.

 

A Perfect Trip to Munich

Munich, the capital of Bavaria and a beautiful city in southern Germany, is a great destination filled with rich history, iconic landmarks, and plenty of activities to suit any traveler. Known for its beautiful historic city center, Munich is home to Neues Rathaus in Old Town, where you can catch Munich’s famous clock chime at specific times. Start your visit with a free walking tour to explore highlights like St. Peter’s Church, the Munich Residence, and the lively beer halls where you can indulge in hearty German food. If you have extra time, a visit to the BMW Museum and BMW Welt offers a glimpse into one of Germany’s go-to brands. For art lovers, the Alte Pinakothek showcases masterpieces in one of the world’s premier art galleries. Munich is also a great place to relax, whether it’s a bike ride through the Englischer Garten with a stop at the Chinese Tower or taking in the serene beauty of Nymphenburg Palace.

Ideas for Your Trip to Munich

A day Munich itinerary is not complete without visiting the Olympic Park for its beautiful buildings and scenic views or taking a day trip to the Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial for a sobering yet important experience. For those planning a short trip, the best way to make the most of your time is by combining guided tours with your own adventure. If you’re staying for a second day, travel tips include visiting the Deutsches Museum for its detailed history and interactive exhibits, followed by enjoying the festive atmosphere of Munich’s world’s largest beer festival or exploring ski resorts in the nearby Alps. With convenient access from Munich Airport or the main train stations, this German city promises an amazing adventure. Don’t forget to carry a water bottle and a credit card, as many attractions offer free admission or great deals, making Munich worth seeing at any time of year.

 

Below are all my top tips on the best things to do in Munich, Germany. 

How to Get to Munich: Your Travel Options

Munich, the capital of Bavaria, is a major hub in southern Germany with excellent connections from across Europe and the world. Here are the main ways to reach this beautiful city:

1. By Air

• Munich Airport (MUC): Located about 40 km (25 miles) northeast of the city center, Munich Airport is one of Europe’s busiest and best-connected airports.
  • International Flights: Direct flights are available from North America, Asia, and most major European cities.
  • Domestic Flights: Munich Airport also connects with other German cities like Berlin, Frankfurt, and Hamburg.
  • Transportation to the City:
    • S-Bahn Trains: Lines S1 and S8 connect the airport to the central station (Hauptbahnhof) in about 40 minutes.
    • Airport Bus: Direct buses to the city center and other key locations.
    • Taxis and Rideshares: Available for convenience but more expensive.

2. Via Train

• Munich Hauptbahnhof (Central Station): A major rail hub in Europe, Munich’s main train stationis well-connected by Deutsche Bahn and international services.
  • High-Speed Trains: ICE and EuroCity trains offer fast connections from cities like Berlin (4 hours), Frankfurt (3 hours), and Vienna (4 hours).
  • Regional Trains: Ideal for reaching nearby towns or planning a day trip to places like Nuremberg, Salzburg, or Neuschwanstein Castle.
  • Night Trains: Sleepers are available from cities like Paris and Venice for a sustainable and relaxing option.

3. By Bus

• Long-Distance Buses: Companies like FlixBus and Eurolines offer affordable options for reaching Munich from other European cities.
  • Buses arrive at major terminals like ZOB Munich (Central Bus Station), located near the city center.
  • Ideal for budget travelers but may take longer than trains.

4. Via Car

• Munich is easily accessible by road, with major highways (autobahns) connecting it to other parts of Germany and neighboring countries.
  • Driving Tips: Be mindful of Germany’s autobahn rules and plan for potential traffic in urban areas.
  • Renting a car is ideal if you plan to explore rural Bavaria or ski resorts nearby.

5. By Bike (for Adventurous Travelers)

• If you’re an eco-conscious traveler or enjoy cycling, you can reach Munich via well-maintained EuroVelo bike routes that connect across continental Europe.

6. Via Train or Ferry from Neighboring Countries

• From Austria or Switzerland, you can combine train travel with ferry crossings on scenic lakes for a unique journey into Munich.

With its excellent transportation options, reaching Munich is easy and convenient, no matter where you’re coming from!

 

How to Get Around Munich: A Comprehensive Guide

Munich’s efficient and well-connected transportation system makes exploring the city a breeze. Whether you’re navigating the beautiful historic city center or heading out to major attractions like the Olympic Park or Nymphenburg Palace, here’s a breakdown of the best ways to get around:

1. Public Transportation

Munich’s public transport system, run by MVV, includes trains, trams, buses, and subways (U-Bahn).

• U-Bahn (Subway):
  • Best for: Quickly reaching attractions in the heart of Munich and beyond.
  • Coverage: 8 lines serving the city and suburbs.
  • Tip: U-Bahn stations are marked with a blue “U” sign.
• S-Bahn (Suburban Train):
  • Best for: Connecting with Munich Airport, Munich Central Station, and surrounding areas.
  • Coverage: 8 lines radiating from the city center.
• Trams and Buses:
  • Best for: Exploring local neighborhoods and smaller towns within Munich.
  • Bonus: Trams offer scenic routes through beautiful Munich.
• Tickets:
  • Types: Single tickets, day passes, or multi-day passes.
  • Best Deal: The Munich CityTourCard offers unlimited travel and discounts at major attractions.
  • Purchase: Ticket machines, MVV app, or kiosks at stations.

2. Walking

• Best for: Exploring Old Town and other compact areas with beautiful buildings like Neues Rathaus and St. Peter’s Church.
• Many attractions are within a minute walk of each other, making walking a great thing to enjoy the city’s charm.

3. Cycling

• Munich is one of Europe’s most bike-friendly cities, with extensive bike lanes.
  • Bike Rentals: Available through apps, bike shops, and rental stations.
  • Guided Bike Tours: A good idea for first-time visitors to cover highlights like the Englischer Garten and the Munich Residence.
  • Tip: Pack a water bottle and explore at your own pace!

4. Taxis and Rideshares

• Taxis: Widely available but more expensive. Look for official cabs with roof lights.
• Rideshares: Services like Uber operate in Munich and are often cheaper than taxis.

5. Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

• Best for: A relaxed way to see major attractions like the BMW Museum, Olympic Park, and Nymphenburg Palace.
• Includes multilingual commentary and stops at key sights.

6. Car Rentals

• Best for: Day trips to the southern regions or ski resorts.
• Note: Parking in the beautiful historic city center can be challenging, so avoid driving unless necessary.

7. Free Walking Tours

• Join a tour guide to explore the rich history of Old Town, including the Munich Residence and beer halls. This is a great way to get oriented while learning fascinating stories about the city.

8. E-Scooters and E-Bikes

• Available through apps like Lime, Tier, and Voi, e-scooters and e-bikes are a fun, eco-friendly option for short distances.

9. Self-Guided Tours

• Use apps or travel guides to plan your own adventure. Explore the detailed history museum or enjoy vegan-friendly stops along your route.

10. Accessibility Tips

• Munich’s public transport system and major attractions are wheelchair-friendly. Look for elevators and ramps at stations.

With these options, navigating Munich is easy, whether you’re on a short trip or spending full days exploring this beautiful city!

 

What to do in Munich

marienplatz area

Marienplatz – obviously, this main square is a must visit. All of the free walking tours start here and if you go during the Christmas market, there’s a large market here. It’s interesting to just look at the buildings and take in the grandeur of it. Many of the buildings in Munich were, sadly, bombed during WWII. Germany re-built the area, keeping the original style of architecture. 

The New Town Hall (chiming clock at 11, 12 and 5 p.m.) – you must see the glockenspiel with its whimsical music and rotating characters who perform 3 times a day. The building, which hosts the city government is ornate, gothic-inspired and truly striking. 

St. Peter’s Church – oldest church in Munich that lies across the New Town Hall. This Catholic church has the oldest church bells and historically, the first tower clocks of the city. The church still has a small bomb lodged in the outside wall as a reminder of WWII. Entry to the church is free, but if you’d like to walk up the 300 steps to the viewing platform, it’s a 5€ fee. If you go on a clear day, you’ll have a fantastic view of the city and the Alps in the background.

 

must visit market

Viktualienmarkt – this transformed from a typical farmer’s market to a daily gourmet style market and has been operating daily since 1807. It’s definitely worth a visit as it’s a very short walk from Marienplatz. When I travel, I always love to check out local markets to ooh and aah over the colorful fruits and veggies. This market is a perfect place to do that!

The Hofbrauhaus – most famous beer hall with live music. We spent less than 5 minutes in this place, which was too much. The building is lovely, but going inside as a vegan was actually quite disgusting. Everybody was eating meat and the place smelled awful. It’s hard to describe the sensation, but even writing this now is bringing back bad memories of the smell. If you must check it out, I would highly suggest you wear a mask.

lovely parks in munich 

English garden – this is an expansive, HUGE park that is begging to be explored. We walked in the park along the river, looking for the river surfers that we had read about. We didn’t find them before the sun was setting the first time we went to the park so we returned to the park the next day with better directions. The surfing spot on the Eisbach river is called Eisbachwelle and I highly suggest you go there to see the brave surfers.

 

harder to reach parks, but worth it

Olympia Park – this park was constructed for the 1972 Summer Olympics and I’m so glad to see that it’s kept up and still in use. Sadly, time constraints didn’t allow us to make it to this park, but I imagine it’s a lovely place to visit during the spring and summer. On a clear day, you can see the Bavarian Alps. Next time we go to Munich, we will definitely visit this park. 

Westpark or Sudpark – more gorgeous Munich parks to explore nature and do some forest bathing. 

munich must-sees

The Munich Residenz – this was the Royal Palace of the Bavarian Monarchs. The highly ornate, decorative palace provides the perfect backdrop for photos. 

 

Justizpalast – we briefly stopped here for a quick look around. We were the only travelers inside so it doesn’t seem to be a tourist hot spot. We enjoyed the grandiose interior made even more special by the enormous Christmas tree.

Asam Church – this is a super ornate, gold-filled church right in the center of Munich. It was built from 1733 to 1746 by a pair of brothers, sculptor Egid Quirin Asam and painter Cosmas Damian Asam, as their private church.

Müller’sches Volksbad – this is a swimming pool with art nouveau design with an entrance fee of 5€. We didn’t have enough time to go here, but it’s top of my list for the next visit to Munich. 

munich christmas markets

German Christmas markets – there were Christmas markets throughout Munich, with the largest ones being the Tollwood Market and the market at Marienplatz. My best recommendation would be to visit the markets during the week (not weekend) as they are must less crowded and easier to enjoy your time. 

 

Theresienwiese – Tollwood market

Stephansplatz – LGBTQ+ market

Gans Woanders – we happened upon a little pop up market inside this charming cafe/bar. This venue is FANTASTIC. We absolutely loved the cozy, hygge-like ambience with the treehouse, built in seating with comfy blankets and camp fires, decent vegan options and of course, hot mulled wine.

museum visit

Modern Art Museum – on Sundays, most of the museums are very low cost or free. We decided to go to the Modern Art Museum and the fee was 1€. 

Logistics for Munich Germany

How to get to Munich center from airport: Bus, Metro, bus 1 hour total (9€), or train 1h9m (13€) or taxi 39 minutes (95-115€). We personally traveled to our hotel from the airport using the train and metro. The total was 27,50€ for an all-day pass for the 3 of us. 

Public transportation: get the group pass. It makes it much more affordable. Such a fantastic deal – all cities in Europe should offer group passes!

Where to Eat in Munich – make sure to make reservations ahead of time!

1. Bodhi – this place was packed and unfortunately, we didn’t make reservations ahead of time so we had to wait about an hour for a table. The wait was worth it though – the veganized Bavarian specialties were heavenly. The schnitzel and pierogi were delicious!

   

2. Ahimsa – a cozy, small cafe serving Asian food. The huge bao buns are sublime.
3. Max Pett – veganized German food with exquisite schnitzel and even more luscious desserts. Even if you’re full, don’t skip the desserts!
4. Emmi’s Kitchen – lovely cafe with delectable bowls, soups, salads, burgers and more. The bowls we got were scrumptious. I also really enjoyed the golden mylk and the apple streusel dessert. 

5. Soy Vegan – this is a perfect place to go for lunch during the week. You can order the daily menu for less than 10€ and it comes with a small appetizer and main dish. We loved the Asian dishes here – they were flavorful and they didn’t skimp on spice. more delicious vegan food in munich

6. Planty Sandwiches – we didn’t make it to this spot, but it comes highly recommended on Happy Cow. 
7. Secret Garden Sushi – again, this is a highly rated spot, but we ran out of time. I can’t wait to try it next time we go to Munich.
8. Tian Munich – if you want to treat yourself, try this expensive, Michelin Star restaurant! I believe the tasting menu is 95€ per person, which is out of our budget, but it would be a nice special event type of place.
9. Ivy Tagesbar – this bar is in the Oberpollinger Mall. As we were going elsewhere for dinner, we just stopped here for a quick drink. The waitstaff goes above and beyond here!
10. Dr. Drooly Pizza – we didn’t make it here, but I’ve heard that these pizzas are NOT to be missed. Next time!
11. Cat Cafe – we wandered over here after eating at another restaurant so we just ordered simple drinks. We interacted with the two cats that were prowling around and especially enjoyed the Grumpy cat’s face. This neighborhood is quaint and next time I go to Munich, I’m going to spend more time in this area.

vegan offerings at the munich airport

Dean & David had lots of vegan bowls to go plus dessert! Check out the photo below

Where to Stay in Munich

1. We stayed at NYX Munich – it wasn’t very central, but it was a charming hotel for a great price.
2. Aparthotel Munich – Splurge-worthy for the amazing location
3. Hotel Adria – another fantastically located hotel
4. Hotel Kraft – perfect location, esp if you go for Oktoberfest
5. Hotel Deutsche Eiche – lovely location by the market

Booking.com

fun paid experiences – best things to do in munich germany

1. Hop On/Hop Off Bus Tour – the best way to get to know a city!
2. Day Trip to famous castle of Neuschwanstein – see in person the Disney Castle inspiration
3. Munich City Card – great way to save money on public transportation and museums!
4. Munich Walking Tour in English – great way to learn more about Munich in a small group setting
5. Concert in Residenz Palace – next time I go to Munich, I’m definitely doing this!!

When to go to Munich

Munich is top notch for Christmas markets so an ideal time is in December. The weather will be cold and unpredictable, but will set the mood to warm up with mulled wine and/or hot chocolate. Now that I’ve been to Munich in the winter, I really want to go during the summer when it’s warm and you can explore more outdoor spots. I think that Munich is a wonderful destination anytime of the year, but is especially busy during Oktoberfest and the Christmas season.

Top 10 Tips for Enjoying Munich as a Vegan

Explore Vegan-Friendly Restaurants and Cafés

Munich has a growing vegan scene with plenty of delicious options. Must-try spots include Max Pett, a fully vegan restaurant offering hearty German-inspired dishes, and Katzentempel, a cozy café where you can enjoy plant-based treats surrounded by rescue cats.

Don’t Miss the Viktualienmarkt

Located in the heart of Munich, this famous market is a great place to discover fresh produce, artisanal vegan snacks, and international cuisine. Many stalls offer plant-based options, so grab a vegan pretzel or fresh juice to fuel your adventures.

Veganize Traditional Bavarian Dishes

Bavarian food is known for its hearty and meaty dishes, but many restaurants now offer vegan alternatives. Look for vegan schnitzel, spätzle, and even vegan bratwurst paired with classic sides like potato salad or sauerkraut.

Enjoy Vegan Options at Beer Halls

While beer halls are famous for their meaty menus, some now cater to vegans. For example, Augustiner Bräustuben offers vegan-friendly sides and pretzels, and many halls serve vegan beer—just ensure it’s free from animal-derived clarifying agents.

Stay Active with a Bike Ride Through the Englischer Garten

Munich’s Englischer Garten is one of Europe’s largest urban parks and the perfect spot for a bike ride. Pack a vegan picnic with goodies from local shops and relax by the lake or near the Chinese Tower. This is my favorite thing to do in Munich – watch the river surfers!

Visit the Vegan Supermarkets

Stop by Rewe or Basic Bio Markt to stock up on vegan snacks, plant-based staples, and cruelty-free cosmetics. These shops are especially handy if you’re staying in an Airbnb or want to prepare your own meals.

Check Out the Vegan Scene at Food Markets

During your visit, explore food markets and pop-up events like the Tollwood Festival, where you can find a range of vegan options, including global street food and sweet treats.

Take a Free Walking Tour with a Vegan Twist

Many walking tour guides are happy to customize your experience to highlight vegan-friendly spots around Munich. Ask your tour guide for recommendations on the best vegan eateries and ethical shopping locations in the beautiful city.

Plan Ahead for Day Trips

If you’re heading on a day trip to places like Neuschwanstein Castle or the Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial, pack a vegan lunch or snacks to ensure you have plant-based options, as smaller towns may have limited choices.

Indulge in Vegan Treats at Bakeries and Cafés

Local bakeries like Zerwirk or Lost Weekend offer incredible vegan cakes, croissants, and pastries that rival any traditional treat. Pair them with a cup of oat milk coffee for a perfect afternoon pick-me-up.

With these tips, you’ll discover that Munich is not just a great destination but also an increasingly vegan-friendly city that offers a wonderful time for plant-based travelers.

Thoughts on Munich

I love how clean, efficient and orderly Munich is. The public transportation is seamless and easy to navigate. Something that stood out was how respectful people were – allowing passengers to disembark from public transportation before attempting to embark. Also, everyone we met in Munich was friendly and kind. I definitely plan on going back with the family! We didn’t get a chance to see any of the palaces so we will spend more time on our next trip to Munich. Munich was also a vegan’s paradise – even grocery store finds are incredible!

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THE 5 ITEMS WE WERE SO HAPPY TO HAVE FOR ALL OF OUR TRIPS:

1. Merrell women’s light hiking shoes – these are amazing because they are lightweight, but are extra grippy and helpful! I also have this pair that I always get compliments on: Merrell Rainbow shoes. Fernando loves his Asics trail runners which are also grippy and perfect for walking on cobblestone streets.
2. Thermoflask water bottle – like a Hydroflask, but more affordable! We don’t go anywhere without these water bottles full of purified water.
3. North Face Aphrodite 2.0 capris – Seriously, I wear these pants every.single.day! I couldn’t live without these ultra-comfy, lightweight pants that dry so quickly. They are 100% worth the money!
4. Osprey Day Pack – this is an awesome lightweight backpack! We easily put the belongings we need at hand for traveling around the city and on public transportation.
5. Travel-friendly chewable toothpaste tablets – these are so fantastic for keeping your teeth clean on the go!

OUR FAVORITE EUROPEAN SERVICES:

1. DISCOVER CARS – If you want to rent a car while you’re in Europe, our favorite car rental aggregator is Discover Cars. We frequently rent cars and they always have the best prices and great quality vehicles.
2. iTalki – if you want to learn another language before traveling to Europe or while you’re there, we love iTalki. We highly recommend their language services.
3. NORD VPN – perfect to use your technology in other countries!
4. Airalo E-Sim – this let’s you use your phone anywhere in the world without having to get a physical sim! We use this all the time when we travel outside Europe!
5. Big Bus Tours – the perfect way to see the city when you first arrive!
6. Get Transfer – transfers between all of the airports and cities

renting a car in munich:

We always use DISCOVER CARS when renting vehicles in Europe. We’ve had amazing experiences with them and great deals.

This blog post was all about the best things to do in Munich, Germany. This includes what to do in Munich, where to eat delicious vegan food in Munich, where to stay in Munich, and when to go to Munich. Did I leave any of your favorite things out? If so, let us know in the comments below!