Munich, Germany is one of those charming places that while a medium-sized city has a small town feel. People are friendly and there is something to see (and eat) around every corner. I spent 5 days in Munich, so today I’m sharing my favorites list. If I had to recommend how much time to spend in the city, I think you can get away with seeing almost everything in 4 days. If you’re interested in day trips, then you might want to add another 2-3 days.
[ GENERAL TIPS ]
- Stay in the old town – The old town is the best place to stay for connections to all the major sights and subway lines. It will also help you feel more immersed in the German culture.
- If you don’t have a lot of time take the Hop On Hop Off Bus
- For 22 euros for the day, you can take a “Hop On Hop Off” bus that takes you all around the city. In 3-4 hours you can see the whole city (and if you decided to actually get down at different destinations, of course it will take longer). It is a good introduction to the city.
[ MUSEUMS ]
BMW Museum
The BMW Museum isn’t just for car lovers. It’s a great opportunity to learn about German history, as well as see the evolution of BMW. I spent a couple of hours at the museum, visited their showroom across the street and had lunch.
- Food – There are 3 restaurants at the museum. A cafe at the museum itself, and 2 that are at the dealership/ showroom across the street. At the dealership there’s a Michelin star restaurant (Esszimmer), but also a trendy (less expensive) restaurant – Bavarie Brasserie. I had dinner at the Brasserie and found the food and service to be quite good.
- Entrance Fee & Hours –
- Closed Mondays. Tuesday- Sunday 10AM-6PM
- Student Fee 7 Euros, General Admission 10 Euros.
[ TO SEE ]
Old Town
The Old Town of the city is where most of the history lies. I would spend most of my time here – there’s a lot to eat, see, and explore. A couple of the main attractions are located in the Old Town:
- Karlsplatz (main square) – Karlsplatz, also called “Stachus” by locals is the city’s main square.
- Viktualienmarkt – While a tourist attraction, the market is a great way to feel like a German local. Find local food specialities and do some people watching.
- Hours: Monday – Friday 10 AM – 6PM , Saturday 10AM -3PM
- Marienplatz – Marienplatz is another one of the city’s main squares. Within the Marienplatz is the Glockenspiel (clock tourist attraction).
- Glockenspiel – The famous clock is a charming 15 minute activity while you’re in the Old Town.
- Clock Times – 11am and 12PM (and 5pm March – October)
Nymphenburg Palace
The Nymphenburg Palace is reminiscent of a mini Versailles gardens. It was the main summer home of the rulers of Bavaria. It feels more French than German, but it’s a beautiful place to take a stroll.
Hours: Sunday- Saturday 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
English garten
[ FOOD & DRINK ]
- Breakfast – Cotidiano Gärtnerplatz
- Very “local” breakfast experience. This place was my favorite restaurant in Munich. It was very locals only, and the food was amazing.
- Classic Meals to have –
- Radler – Famous german lemonade/ soda mixed with beer (very refreshing)
- Spätzle – Traditional Swabian Egg Noodles.
- Pork Shoulder
- Beer Garden – Aumeister Restaurant und Biergarten im Englischen Garten
[ DAY TRIPS ]
Salzburg & Wolfgangsee
If you have the time, I highly recommend doing more than just a day trip to Salzburg. It is absolutely charming and deserves at least 2-3 days. But if you were like me, who was on a very limited schedule, a day trip is the way to go. I don’t quite remember which tour company we took, but it included a trip to Salzburg and a boat tour across the Wolfgangsee Lake. You can find a company with a similar itinerary here.
