Things to do in Munich

Munich, the capital of Bavaria, is rich in iconic sights and attractions. While exploring the best landmarks in Munich, you’ll encounter a captivating blend of architectural, historical, and natural attractions that are an integral part of the city’s fabric. Discover historic landmarks such as the bustling Marienplatz with its legendary Glockenspiel or architectural landmarks like the Baroque Asamkirche. If you’re into natural sights, strolling through the English Garden with its famous Eisbach Wave or the landscaped grounds of Nymphenburg Palace are some of the best things to do in Munich.

Munich’s landmarks at a glance

Most-visited landmark: Marienplatz

Oldest landmark: St. Peter’s Church

Largest green space: Englischer Garten

There are many fun things to do in Munich — once you know what you want to see and do, knowing the best way to get around Munich is key to making the most of your visit. Whether you’re exploring the characteristic streets of the Old Town or the Nymphenburg Palace, Munich offers an extensive public transportation network, bike rentals, and rideshare options to reach its many attractions.

For essential information on catching trains or buses, vehicle rentals, and walking routes, here’s everything you need to know about getting around Munich.

Getting around Munich: tips and tricks

• Use a Munich travel pass: Munich offers day, week, and group travel passes for unlimited travel within specified zones. These can save money if you plan on using public transportation in Munich frequently.
• Validate your ticket: Don’t forget to stamp your ticket in the blue validation machines before boarding, or you risk a hefty fine.
• Travel off-peak: Avoid rush hours (7:00 AM-9:00 PM and 4:00 PM-6:00 PM) if possible for a more comfortable ride on public transportation.
• Know your zones: Munich’s public transportation system is divided into zones; make sure your ticket covers the area you’re traveling to.
• Consider bike or scooter rentals: Munich has a reliable bike-sharing system, MVG Rad, and e-scooter rentals from providers like Tier and Lime, which are great for short trips within the city.
• Watch out for environmental zones: If driving in Munich, be aware of the city’s Umweltzone (environmental zone), where only low-emission vehicles with proper stickers are allowed.
• Wear comfortable shoes: Munich is highly walkable, and many landmarks are within walking distance of each other. Bring good shoes and plan for changes in the weather to enjoy the city on foot.

Useful apps:

• Google Maps: Accurate navigation for all modes of transportation. Saving the map offline is a crucial travel hack.
• Citymapper: Provides detailed route planning, including all public transportation options.
• MVV App: Munich’s public transportation app allows you to check schedules and buy tickets in English and other languages.

With a vibrant nightlife scene and a spooky history entwined with tales of witches, warlocks, and dragons, Munich boasts as much to do after dark as it does throughout the day. Maybe you are beer hall hopping from Hofbräuhaus to Augustiner-Keller or enjoying an evening of culture and music at the Cuvilliés Theatre or the Bavarian National Theatre. Or perhaps you’re taking a step back in time to wander the streets of the Old Town with the night watchman. Whatever you choose, there are plenty of things to do in Munich at night for everyone.

Top ranked: Munich at night

Best attractions to visit at night: Munich’s iconic Beer Halls and Concert Halls.

Best neighborhood for nightlife: Glockenbachviertel has a fantastic array of restaurants and bars.

Best sunset spot: The Olympic Tower offers panoramic views to witness the day turn to night.

Sitting in the heart of Germany’s Bavaria region, Munich is ideally located for a variety of incredible trips that can easily be done in two or three days. Whether you’re looking for a cultural escape, an outdoor adventure, or a peaceful retreat, there's a weekend getaway from Munich for everyone in this roundup. The best weekend getaways near Munich don’t require much planning—just pack and go!

From visiting the fairy-tale castle that inspired Walt Disney to exploring the storybook village of Rothenburg ob der Tauber or relaxing by the crystal-clear Bavarian Sea, these weekend trips will help you discover more of southern Germany and beyond.

Best weekend getaways from Munich, according to your interests

Best weekend destinations for outdoor adventure: Chiemsee Lake and Berchtesgaden National Park.
Best places for a weekend of history: Regensburg and Nuremberg.
Best weekend destinations for families: Neuschwanstein Castle and Chiemsee Lake.
Best places for a romantic weekend away: Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Regensburg, and Neuschwanstein Castle.