Things to Do in Munich

About Munich

Where Alpine grandeur meets cosmopolitan sophistication, Munich unfolds as Bavaria's crown jewel, weaving centuries of tradition into the fabric of modern European life. Here, the morning mist rises from the Isar River as church bells echo across cobblestone squares, while lederhosen-clad locals share tables with international visitors in centuries-old beer halls. The city breathes with a rhythm all its own – unhurried yet purposeful, where business meetings pause for afternoon coffee in sunlit plazas and evening concerts fill baroque churches with ethereal melodies. Munich's soul lies in its contradictions: cutting-edge museums standing beside medieval towers, sleek BMWs parked outside traditional bakeries, and world-class opera houses neighboring boisterous beer gardens where strangers become friends over shared pretzels and stories. This is a city that honors its past while embracing tomorrow, where every cobblestone tells a story and every sunset over the Alps promises new adventures in Germany's most enchanting metropolis.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Purchase a Munich City Tour Card for unlimited public transport plus museum discounts. The efficient U-Bahn, S-Bahn, and tram system connects all major attractions. Validate tickets before boarding or face €60 fines. Consider renting a bike – Munich has 1,200km of cycling paths.

Money: Germany uses the Euro. While cards are widely accepted, carry cash for beer gardens, markets, and smaller establishments. Expect to pay 5-15% tips at restaurants by rounding up or leaving coins. ATMs (Geldautomat) are plentiful but may charge foreign transaction fees.

Cultural Respect: Punctuality is sacred – arrive exactly on time for appointments. Maintain quiet voices on public transport and avoid loud conversations on Sundays. When toasting with beer, make eye contact and say 'Prost!' Never toast with water, as it's considered bad luck.

Food Safety: Munich's food safety standards are excellent. Tap water is safe and high-quality. Try traditional beer gardens serving Schweinshaxe and pretzels. Book restaurant reservations in advance, especially during Oktoberfest. Grocery stores close early on Sundays and holidays, so plan accordingly.

When to Visit

Munich's appeal shifts beautifully with the seasons, each offering distinct experiences. Spring (March-May) brings mild temperatures of 8-18°C with moderate rainfall (40-60mm monthly). Cherry blossoms bloom in the English Garden while accommodation prices remain 20-30% below peak season. Summer (June-August) is prime time with temperatures of 15-24°C and occasional afternoon showers (70-100mm monthly). This coincides with peak pricing – expect 40-50% higher rates, especially during Oktoberfest (mid-September to early October). Autumn (September-November) offers the iconic festival season with comfortable 5-15°C temperatures and increasing rainfall (45-65mm). Hotel prices spike 60-80% during Oktoberfest but drop significantly afterward. Winter (December-February) transforms Munich into a Christmas market wonderland with temperatures of -3 to 5°C and light snow (35-45mm precipitation). Accommodation costs drop 35-45% below summer rates. Budget travelers should visit November through March (excluding Christmas markets period). Families prefer May-September for outdoor activities. Culture enthusiasts will love the quieter winter months when museums and concert halls take center stage. Oktoberfest lovers must book accommodations 6-12 months in advance and budget significantly higher for this iconic experience.