Munich Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
General Planning and Logistics
1. When is the best time to visit Munich? Munich has a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. The peak tourist season is from June to August. However, many travelers recommend visiting in the spring (March to May) for warmer weather and smaller crowds. If you’re going for Oktoberfest, book your accommodations up to a year in advance.
2. How many days should I spend in Munich? Many travelers suggest a minimum of 3-4 days to explore the city center and main attractions. If you want to include day trips to places like Neuschwanstein Castle or Salzburg, plan for 5-7 days.
3. What is the best way to get from Munich Airport (MUC) to the city center? The S-Bahn train (lines S1 and S8) is a popular and efficient option, taking about 45 minutes to reach the central station (Hauptbahnhof). The Lufthansa Express Bus is another good option and is often the cheapest. Taxis are also available.
4. How do I get around in Munich? The city center is very walkable. Munich also has an excellent public transportation system (MVV) with U-Bahn (subway), S-Bahn (suburban trains), trams, and buses. You can purchase single tickets, day tickets, or a weekly Isar Card depending on your travel plans.
5. Should I get a Munich Card or City Pass? These passes can be cost-effective if you plan on visiting many museums and using public transport frequently. Assess your planned itinerary to see if the pass will save you money compared to individual tickets.
6. Is Munich expensive? Munich is known as one of the more expensive cities in Germany, especially for accommodation and dining. However, there are budget-friendly options available, and many public spaces like parks and beer gardens offer affordable ways to spend your time.
7. Do I need to speak German? While knowing a few phrases is always polite (“Hallo,” “Danke,” “Bitte,” “Servus”), you will find that English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants.
8. What is the currency and should I carry cash? The currency is the Euro (€). While many places accept cards, it’s wise to carry some cash for smaller shops, market stalls, and coin-only public transport ticket machines.
9. What are the store hours, especially on Sunday? Most stores are closed on Sundays and public holidays in Germany. You can still find some shops open at major train stations, the airport, and some bakeries. Plan your shopping accordingly.
Must-See Attractions and Activities
10. What are the top things to do in the city center?
Marienplatz: The central square with the New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus) and its famous Glockenspiel.
Frauenkirche: The iconic cathedral with its distinctive twin towers.
Viktualienmarkt: A large, daily food market with stalls selling fresh produce, flowers, and local delicacies.
Hofbräuhaus: The world-famous beer hall.
English Garden (Englischer Garten): One of the largest urban parks in the world, perfect for walking, relaxing, and seeing the Eisbach surfers.
11. What are some of the best museums to visit?
Deutsches Museum: One of the world’s oldest and largest museums of science and technology. It can take a full day to explore.
Pinakotheken (Pinakothek der Moderne, Alte Pinakothek, Neue Pinakothek): A trio of art museums with collections spanning different periods.
BMW Museum: A must for car enthusiasts.
12. What are some less-touristy things to do?
Wander through the tiny Asamkirche church.
Visit the Schloss Nymphenburg palace and its gardens.
Relax at one of the many local, less-crowded beer gardens.
Explore the quieter neighborhoods.
Food and Drink
13. What are some must-try Bavarian foods?
Weisswurst: A traditional white sausage, typically eaten with sweet mustard and a pretzel for breakfast or a mid-morning snack.
Brezen: The Bavarian pretzel.
Schweinshaxe: A roasted pork knuckle.
Obatzda: A cheese delicacy often served with pretzels.
Leberkäse: A meatloaf-like dish.
14. What’s the etiquette for visiting a beer garden? It’s a Munich tradition! You can bring your own food to the “self-service” areas, but you must buy your drinks (typically beer) from the beer garden itself. Tipping is customary; round up the bill or give about 10%.
15. Where should I eat for an authentic experience? Instead of just sticking to the main tourist hotspots, look for smaller, local places. Many locals recommend Augustinerkeller. Don’t be afraid to walk into a place that feels right, or ask for recommendations.
Day Trips from Munich
16. Is Neuschwanstein Castle worth visiting? Yes, it is a very popular and worthwhile day trip. However, it’s not a “secret” and can be very crowded. Be sure to book your tickets online well in advance to avoid long queues.
17. What other day trips are popular from Munich?
Salzburg, Austria: Easily reachable by train and offers a beautiful city with a rich history.
Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site: A somber but important historical site.
Garmisch-Partenkirchen: A beautiful town for mountain views and hiking, with the Zugspitze (Germany’s highest peak) nearby.
Lakes: Visit nearby lakes like Tegernsee or Starnberg for hiking and relaxation.
18. Do I need a guided tour for day trips? For places like Neuschwanstein, a guided tour can simplify logistics. However, places like Dachau are easy to reach by public transport and you can do a self-guided tour with an audio guide. The choice depends on your preference for convenience versus independence.
Final Tips
19. What should I pack? Munich’s weather can be unpredictable. Pack layers, comfortable walking shoes, and be prepared for rain, even in the summer.
20. Any advice for solo travelers? Munich is a very safe city. Many hostels and bars have a social atmosphere, making it easy to meet other travelers. Consider staying at a hostel to mingle with other backpackers.
21. Is Munich family-friendly? Yes, there are many activities for children, from exploring the parks to visiting the Deutsches Museum or the Hellabrunn Zoo.
22. How do I get an authentic local experience? Engage with locals, learn a few German phrases, and explore neighborhoods beyond the main tourist area. Spend time in a local park or beer garden, and don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation.