Munich travel guide
Munich, the capital of Bavaria, is known for its beer halls and gardens, the Oktoberfest, baroque churches, art museums and easy day trips to the Alps and fairytale castles.
Best time to visit Munich
May to September is warm and beer-garden season. Oktoberfest runs for about two weeks from mid-to-late September into early October, when prices and crowds peak.
December brings Christmas markets, and winter is the season for skiing in the nearby Alps.
Getting to Munich
Munich Airport (MUC) has direct flights from several US cities. S-Bahn lines S1 and S8 reach the centre in about 40 minutes.
Recent round-trip fares Aviasales travellers found recently. Tap a route to see that trip and today's price on Aviasales.
Getting around
U-Bahn, S-Bahn and trams
The MVV network covers the city and region; buy tickets at machines or in the MVV app and validate paper tickets.
On foot and by bike
The old town is compact and pedestrian-friendly, and Munich has extensive bike lanes.
Top things to do in Munich
1. Marienplatz and the old town
The central square with the New Town Hall's Glockenspiel, the Frauenkirche and the Viktualienmarkt food market.
See tours & prices ›2. Neuschwanstein Castle day trip
King Ludwig II's fairytale castle in the Alpine foothills, about two hours away. Castle tours need advance tickets.
See tours & prices ›3. English Garden and beer gardens
One of the world's largest urban parks, with surfers on the Eisbach wave and the Chinese Tower beer garden.
See tours & prices ›4. Nymphenburg Palace and the Residenz
The Wittelsbach rulers' summer palace and their vast city palace with its treasury.
See tours & prices ›Practical tips
- Book accommodation many months ahead if travelling during Oktoberfest.
- Most shops close on Sundays.
- Carry some cash; smaller cafés and beer gardens may not take cards.
Munich travel FAQ
When is Oktoberfest?
It runs for about 16 to 18 days, starting in mid-to-late September and ending on the first Sunday of October (or 3 October).
How do you get to Neuschwanstein from Munich?
By regional train to Füssen and a short bus ride, or on a day tour. Book castle tour tickets in advance.
How many days do you need in Munich?
Two to three days for the city, plus a day for Neuschwanstein or the Alps.