Day-by-Day Itinerary
Settle into Munich and explore the historic
Old Town, getting oriented with the city's central landmarks and Bavarian atmosphere.
Morning
Arrival and hotel check-in
Arrive in Munich and settle into your accommodation in the city center. Take time to freshen up and orient yourself with the neighborhood. Pick up a public transport day pass and grab a traditional Bavarian breakfast at a local café to fuel your first day of exploration.
2-3 hours
$15-25
Lunch
A traditional Bavarian restaurant near
Marienplatz serving Weisswurst and pretzels
Bavarian
Mid-range
Afternoon
Begin at
Marienplatz, Munich's central square, and admire the Mariensäule column. Watch the famous Rathaus-Glockenspiel performance at 11am or noon, where mechanical figures reenact historical Bavarian scenes. Explore the Fischbrunnen fountain and wander through the pedestrian streets, soaking in the
Old Town atmosphere and visiting local shops.
3 hours
$0
Evening
Welcome dinner and evening stroll
Dine at a traditional beer garden in the
Old Town area, then take an evening walk to see the illuminated
Frauenkirche
Where to Stay Tonight
Munich City Center (Altstadt) (Mid-range hotel near Marienplatz)
Central location provides easy access to major attractions and excellent public transport connections for the entire stay
The Glockenspiel performs daily at 11am and noon (also 5pm March-October). Arrive 15 minutes early for a good viewing spot.
Day 1 Budget: $140-200
Dive into Munich's royal history at the opulent Munich Residence and visit the iconic
Frauenkirche cathedral.
Morning
Munich Residence tour
Explore the Munich Residence, the former
royal palace of Bavarian monarchs. Wander through over 130 rooms showcasing Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo, and Neoclassical architecture. Highlights include the Antiquarium hall, the ornate Treasury with crown jewels, and the stunning Court Church. Allow ample time to appreciate the lavish interiors and extensive art collections.
3-4 hours
$15-20
Purchase tickets online in advance to skip ticket counter queues, especially during peak season
Lunch
A cozy café in the Odeonsplatz area with outdoor seating
Bavarian-International
Mid-range
Afternoon
Visit the
Frauenkirche, Munich's iconic cathedral with distinctive onion domes visible throughout the city. Climb the tower for panoramic views (typically open except during services). Walk to nearby Odeonsplatz to admire the Theatine Church and Feldherrnhalle, then stroll through the elegant Hofgarten with its beautiful arcades and central pavilion.
2-3 hours
$5-10
Evening
Dinner and cultural evening
Enjoy dinner at a restaurant near Königsplatz, then attend an evening concert or simply stroll through the illuminated neoclassical square
Where to Stay Tonight
Munich City Center (Altstadt) (Same central hotel)
Continuing to stay centrally minimizes transit time and maximizes exploration efficiency
Look for the 'Devil's Footprint' in the entrance hall of
Frauenkirche—a local legend says the devil left his footmark there.
Day 2 Budget: $130-170
Spend the day at the world-famous
Deutsches Museum, then experience authentic Bavarian beer culture at the legendary
Hofbräuhaus München.
Morning
Dedicate your morning to the
Deutsches Museum, one of the world's largest science and technology museums. Explore fascinating exhibitions covering aviation, astronomy, physics, chemistry, maritime history, and more. Interactive displays make complex subjects accessible. Highlights include historic aircraft, the mining exhibition, and the planetarium shows. The museum is vast, so focus on areas of particular interest.
4 hours
$15-18
Visit on weekday mornings for smaller crowds; planetarium shows require separate tickets
Lunch
The museum café or a nearby riverside restaurant with views
International-Bavarian
Budget
Afternoon
Relaxation and neighborhood exploration
Take a leisurely afternoon after the museum-intensive morning. Stroll along the Isar River, explore the charming streets of the Gärtnerplatz neighborhood, or visit local boutiques and artisan shops. Consider stopping at a traditional café for Kaffee und Kuchen (coffee and cake), a beloved Bavarian afternoon tradition.
2-3 hours
$10-20
Evening
Dine at the historic
Hofbräuhaus München, Munich's most famous beer hall. Enjoy traditional music, massive steins of beer, and classic Bavarian dishes in the lively atmosphere
Where to Stay Tonight
Munich City Center (Altstadt) (Same central hotel)
Central location continues to be ideal for exploring different areas of the city
At
Hofbräuhaus München, arrive before 6pm to secure a table without reservation, or book ahead for guaranteed seating during peak times.
Day 3 Budget: $125-165
Explore one of the world's largest urban parks and discover Munich's university and museum quarter.
Morning
English Garden exploration
Spend your morning in the expansive English Garden, one of the world's largest urban parks. Watch surfers ride the standing wave at the Eisbach, stroll through meadows and forests, and admire the Chinese Tower beer garden. Walk to the Monopteros temple for elevated views across the park. The garden offers peaceful nature within the city, perfect for walking, cycling, or simply relaxing.
3 hours
$0
Lunch
Beer garden at the Chinese Tower within the English Garden
Bavarian beer garden fare
Budget
Afternoon
Siegestor and Königsplatz area
Walk to the Siegestor, a triumphal arch marking the entrance to the university district. Continue to Königsplatz, Munich's neoclassical square surrounded by impressive museums. The square's Greek-inspired architecture creates a striking contrast to Bavarian baroque. Explore the surrounding Maxvorstadt neighborhood, known for its galleries, bookshops, and student cafés.
2-3 hours
$0
Evening
Explore the bohemian
Schwabing district near Münchner Freiheit, dining at a trendy restaurant and experiencing Munich's artistic quarter
Where to Stay Tonight
Munich City Center (Altstadt) (Same central hotel)
Central base remains convenient for accessing all areas via public transport
Bring a blanket and snacks to enjoy a picnic in the English Garden—locals do this year-round when weather permits.
Day 4 Budget: $110-150
Discover the magnificent summer residence of Bavarian royalty with its stunning palace, gardens, and pavilions.
Morning
Visit the spectacular
Nymphenburg Palace, the summer residence of Bavarian rulers. Tour the baroque palace rooms, including the famous Gallery of Beauties commissioned by King Ludwig I. The palace showcases opulent royal apartments, intricate ceiling frescoes, and period furnishings. Don't miss the Marstallmuseum with historic carriages and sleighs, and the Porcelain Museum.
2-3 hours
$15-20
Combined tickets covering palace and park pavilions offer better value; arrive early to avoid tour groups
Lunch
A café in the palace grounds or nearby Nymphenburg neighborhood
European café fare
Mid-range
Afternoon
Explore the extensive palace gardens in French and English landscape styles. Visit the ornate garden pavilions: the Amalienburg hunting lodge with its Hall of Mirrors, the Badenburg bathing pavilion, the Pagodenburg tea house, and the Magdalenenklause hermitage. The park offers beautiful walks, fountains, canals, and seasonal flower displays across its vast grounds.
3-4 hours
$10-15
Evening
Return to city center for dinner
Dine at a restaurant near Karlsplatz, then enjoy the illuminated fountain at this historic square
Where to Stay Tonight
Munich City Center (Altstadt) (Same central hotel)
Returning to central location after a day in western Munich
The palace gardens are free to enter and open until dusk—perfect for an evening stroll even if you've toured the palace earlier.
Day 5 Budget: $130-170
Experience automotive excellence at BMW Welt and explore the architectural marvel of
Olympiapark München.
Morning
BMW Welt and Museum
Begin at BMW Welt, a stunning architectural landmark showcasing BMW's latest models, motorcycles, and innovative technology. The futuristic building itself is worth admiring. Continue to the adjacent BMW Museum to trace automotive history through classic cars, motorcycles, and engines. Interactive exhibits detail BMW's evolution and engineering achievements. Car enthusiasts can also book factory tours in advance.
3-4 hours
$12-15
BMW Welt is free; museum requires admission. Factory tours must be booked well in advance online
Lunch
A modern restaurant in the BMW Welt complex or nearby Olympic Park area
International-Contemporary
Mid-range
Afternoon
Explore
Olympiapark München, built for the 1972 Summer Olympics. Walk through the innovative tent-roof architecture, stroll around the Olympic Lake, and visit the Olympic Tower for panoramic city views. The park offers beautiful green spaces, interesting architecture, and a glimpse into Munich's modern history. In summer, the park hosts concerts and events.
2-3 hours
$10-15
Evening
Return to the Münchner Freiheit area for dinner at a local restaurant and drinks at a neighborhood bar
Where to Stay Tonight
Munich City Center (Altstadt) (Same central hotel)
Central location remains most practical for varied daily itineraries
The Olympic Tower observation deck offers the best 360-degree views of Munich and, on clear days, the Alps in the distance.
Day 6 Budget: $125-165
Experience local market culture, visit a unique museum, and discover charming neighborhoods off the main tourist trail.
Morning
Visit
Viktualienmarkt, Munich's famous outdoor food market operating since 1807. Browse stalls selling fresh produce, flowers, cheese, meats, and Bavarian specialties. Sample local delicacies and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. The market also features traditional maypole and beer garden. Explore the surrounding streets and discover small shops and historic corners.
2-3 hours
$15-25
Lunch
Bavarian market food
Budget
Afternoon
Toy Museum Munich and
Old Town exploration
Visit the charming Toy Museum Munich in the
Old Town Hall tower at
Marienplatz. The museum displays historic toys from Europe and America across four floors, offering nostalgic glimpses into childhood through the centuries. Afterward, wander through quieter
Old Town streets, discovering hidden courtyards, small churches, and local artisan shops away from main tourist routes.
2-3 hours
$5-8
Evening
Relaxed evening and reflection
Enjoy dinner at a cozy neighborhood restaurant, perhaps in the Glockenbach or Gärtnerplatz districts, reflecting on your first week in Munich
Where to Stay Tonight
Munich City Center (Altstadt) (Same central hotel)
Midpoint of your stay, maintaining convenient central location
Visit
Viktualienmarkt on weekday mornings for the best selection and authentic local atmosphere; it's closed Sundays.
Day 7 Budget: $115-155
Escape the city for a day in the nearby
Bavarian Alps, experiencing mountain scenery and traditional villages.
Morning
Alpine village exploration
Take an early train to a nearby Alpine destination such as Garmisch-Partenkirchen or the Tegernsee lake region. Enjoy the scenic train journey through Bavarian countryside. Upon arrival, explore charming mountain villages with traditional painted houses, local churches, and Alpine atmosphere. The fresh mountain air and stunning scenery provide a refreshing contrast to urban Munich.
3-4 hours including travel
$30-40
Bayern-Ticket offers unlimited regional train travel for the day at good value for groups or individuals
Lunch
A traditional Alpine restaurant serving regional mountain specialties
Bavarian Alpine
Mid-range
Afternoon
Mountain activities or lake relaxation
Depending on your destination and season, enjoy hiking trails with mountain views, take a cable car for panoramic vistas, stroll around an Alpine lake, or simply relax in the mountain environment. In winter, the area offers winter sports; in summer, beautiful hiking and swimming opportunities. Breathe in the Alpine air and capture memorable photographs.
4-5 hours
$20-40
Evening
Return to Munich
Take the evening train back to Munich and enjoy a light dinner near your hotel, resting after your Alpine adventure
Where to Stay Tonight
Munich City Center (Altstadt) (Same central hotel)
Returning to your Munich base after day trip
Trains to popular Alpine destinations can be crowded on weekends; consider visiting on a weekday or departing very early.
Day 8 Budget: $140-200
Explore Munich's art scene and architectural treasures at a relaxed pace, with time for personal interests.
Morning
Museum quarter exploration
Visit one of Munich's renowned art museums in the Kunstareal museum quarter near Königsplatz. Choose based on your interests: Old Masters, modern art, or antiquities. The area represents one of Europe's most concentrated cultural districts. Take time to appreciate the architecture of the museum buildings themselves, which range from neoclassical to contemporary styles.
3 hours
$12-15
Lunch
A café in the Maxvorstadt university district with student-friendly prices
International café fare
Budget
Afternoon
Personal exploration time
Enjoy a flexible afternoon pursuing personal interests. Options include revisiting a favorite neighborhood, shopping along Maximilianstrasse or smaller boutique streets, relaxing in a café with a book, visiting additional museums, or simply wandering and discovering. This unstructured time allows you to move at your own pace and follow spontaneous interests.
3-4 hours
$20-40
Evening
Cultural evening
Attend a performance at the Bavarian State Opera or a concert at a historic venue, followed by drinks in the atmospheric
Old Town
Where to Stay Tonight
Munich City Center (Altstadt) (Same central hotel)
Continuing central accommodation for convenience
Many Munich museums offer reduced admission on Sundays, and some have extended evening hours on specific weekdays.
Day 9 Budget: $130-180
Experience Munich like a local, exploring riverside paths, neighborhood markets, and authentic beer gardens.
Morning
Isar River walk
Follow the Isar River through Munich, enjoying the scenic riverbanks popular with locals for jogging, cycling, and relaxing. The river offers surprising natural beauty within the city, with opportunities to see wildlife and enjoy green spaces. Walk from the English Garden southward, observing how Münchners use their river for recreation year-round.
2-3 hours
$0
Lunch
A neighborhood beer garden frequented by locals rather than tourists
Traditional beer garden
Budget
Afternoon
Neighborhood exploration
Explore residential neighborhoods like Haidhausen or Glockenbachviertel, experiencing authentic Munich life. Visit local markets, browse independent shops, stop at neighborhood cafés, and observe daily Bavarian life. These areas offer a different perspective from major tourist sites, showing how contemporary Münchners live, work, and socialize in their city.
3 hours
$10-20
Evening
Neighborhood dinner experience
Dine at a family-run restaurant in whichever neighborhood you've been exploring, enjoying authentic local cuisine and atmosphere
Where to Stay Tonight
Munich City Center (Altstadt) (Same central hotel)
Central base continues to facilitate exploration of different districts
In summer, locals gather along the Isar for impromptu barbecues and socializing—bring a blanket and join the relaxed atmosphere.
Day 10 Budget: $100-140
Visit a fairytale castle in the Bavarian countryside, experiencing the romantic legacy of King Ludwig II.
Morning
Castle excursion
Take an organized tour or independent trip to visit
Neuschwanstein Castle or Linderhof Palace, King Ludwig II's romantic creations. The journey through Bavarian countryside is scenic. These castles represent 19th-century romantic architecture at its most fantastical. Neuschwanstein inspired Disney's castle, while Linderhof offers more intimate royal apartments and stunning gardens. Tours provide insight into Ludwig's fascinating life.
4-5 hours including travel
$60-80
Book castle tickets online weeks in advance as they sell out; organized tours from Munich handle logistics but cost more
Lunch
A restaurant near the castle or in a nearby village
Bavarian regional
Mid-range
Afternoon
Castle grounds and surrounding area
After touring the castle interior, explore the surrounding grounds, forests, and viewpoints. The natural setting is spectacular, with mountain views and pristine landscapes. If visiting Neuschwanstein, walk to Marienbrücke bridge for the iconic castle view. The afternoon allows time to fully appreciate both the architecture and natural beauty before returning to Munich.
2-3 hours
$5-10
Evening
Return to Munich
Arrive back in Munich in the evening and enjoy a relaxed dinner near your hotel, reflecting on the castle experience
Where to Stay Tonight
Munich City Center (Altstadt) (Same central hotel)
Returning to Munich base after day trip
Arrive at castles early in the day to avoid peak crowds; the surrounding areas are beautiful for walks even without castle tickets.
Day 11 Budget: $150-210
Discover lesser-known attractions and peaceful spots, experiencing Munich's quieter side.
Morning
Lion's Tower and historic fortifications
Visit the Lion's Tower, part of Munich's medieval fortifications. Explore remnants of the old city walls and gates that once protected Munich. These often-overlooked historical sites offer insights into medieval Munich. The area around the tower provides quiet corners away from main tourist flows, perfect for contemplative exploration and photography.
2 hours
$0
Lunch
Light European
Mid-range
Afternoon
Wurmeck area and peaceful exploration
Explore the Wurmeck area and other lesser-visited parts of Munich. Seek out small museums, historic churches, quiet gardens, and local artisan workshops. This afternoon is about discovering personal favorites and experiencing Munich without crowds. Visit local bookshops, antique stores, or simply sit in a small park observing daily life.
3 hours
$10-15
Evening
Farewell dinner preparation
Enjoy dinner at a special restaurant you've been saving, perhaps returning to a favorite spot or trying a new cuisine in Munich's diverse food scene
Where to Stay Tonight
Munich City Center (Altstadt) (Same central hotel)
Final nights in your established Munich base
Many small churches in Munich's
Old Town are architectural gems rarely visited by tourists—step inside for peaceful moments and beautiful interiors.
Day 12 Budget: $120-160
Revisit favorite locations, complete any missed experiences, and savor final moments in Munich.
Morning
Return to favorite spots
Spend your morning revisiting places that made the strongest impression during your stay. Perhaps return to the English Garden for a final peaceful walk, revisit a museum you particularly enjoyed, or explore a neighborhood you'd like to know better. This flexible morning allows you to complete your Munich experience on your own terms.
3 hours
$10-20
Lunch
A beloved spot you've discovered during your stay, or try one final new restaurant
Your choice
Mid-range
Afternoon
Shopping and souvenirs
Browse for souvenirs and gifts at local shops, markets, and specialty stores. Consider traditional Bavarian items like beer steins, cuckoo clocks, dirndls or lederhosen, local foods, or Munich-themed memorabilia. Visit the
Hofbräuhaus München shop or other traditional stores. This is also time for any last-minute sightseeing or photography.
3 hours
$30-100
Evening
Farewell evening in Munich
Enjoy a special farewell dinner, perhaps at
Hofbräuhaus München or another traditional beer hall, celebrating your Munich journey with Bavarian music and atmosphere
Where to Stay Tonight
Munich City Center (Altstadt) (Same central hotel)
Final night before departure
Save some euro coins for the public restrooms and lockers at the train station if departing by train tomorrow.
Day 13 Budget: $140-220
Final morning in Munich before departure, with time for last impressions and travel to the airport.
Morning
Final Munich morning
Enjoy a leisurely final breakfast at your hotel or a favorite café. Take a last stroll through nearby streets, perhaps visiting
Marienplatz one final time or walking through the Hofgarten. Check out of your hotel and collect your luggage. Depending on your flight time, you may have opportunity for one last coffee or quick museum visit.
2-3 hours
$15-25
Lunch
Light meal at the airport or train station before departure
Quick Bavarian or international
Mid-range
Afternoon
Departure
Travel to Munich Airport via S-Bahn (approximately 45 minutes from city center) or take a taxi if preferred. The S-Bahn S1 and S8 lines connect the city center directly to the airport terminals. Allow adequate time for check-in, security, and any airport shopping. Depart Munich with memories of Bavarian culture, beautiful architecture, and gemütlichkeit.
Varies by flight time
$15-60
Evening
Departure day
Safe travels and auf Wiedersehen München!
Where to Stay Tonight
N/A (Departure day)
End of Munich stay
The S-Bahn to the airport is reliable and economical; buy tickets from machines before boarding and validate them before entering the platform.
Day 14 Budget: $80-120