Where to Stay in Munich
A regional guide to accommodation across the country
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Regions of Munich
Each region offers a distinct character and accommodation scene. Find the one that matches your travel plans.
The historic heart of Munich offers maximum convenience for sightseers, with walking distance to Marienplatz, Viktualienmarkt, and major museums. Accommodation here ranges from historic grand hotels to modern boutiques, though options are limited and prices premium. The pedestrianized zones and vibrant atmosphere come with tourist crowds and higher noise levels.
The area around Munich's Central Station offers the city's greatest concentration of accommodation options, from budget chains to business hotels. While the immediate station vicinity can feel gritty, the district provides unbeatable transport connections and easy airport access. The southern parts toward Sendlinger Tor offer more character and better dining options.
Home to Munich's museum quarter (Pinakotheken) and university district, Maxvorstadt offers excellent value with a local, intellectual atmosphere. The area has good public transport connections and a strong selection of cafes and restaurants. It's quieter than the Altstadt but still within walking distance or a short tram ride from major attractions.
Munich's bohemian district offers a village-like feel within the city, with tree-lined streets, independent shops, and proximity to the expansive English Garden. Accommodation tends toward boutique hotels and guesthouses with character. The area appeals to those wanting a more residential experience while remaining well-connected to the center.
These eastern districts across the Isar River offer authentic Munich character with a French Quarter nickname for Haidhausen's café culture. Less touristy than central areas, they provide good value and excellent local dining. The areas are well-served by S-Bahn and tram connections, making the center easily accessible.
Working-class districts south of the center that have retained authentic Munich character while gentrifying. Accommodation options are limited but offer excellent value, and the areas provide good access to the Isar River paths and local beer gardens. The U-Bahn provides quick connections to the center.
Western residential districts offering proximity to Nymphenburg Palace and its extensive grounds. The area combines residential tranquility with good restaurant and shopping options along Nymphenburger Straße. Tram connections to the center are excellent, making this a comfortable base for those wanting space from tourist areas.
The northern district around the 1972 Olympic grounds offers modern accommodation, particularly business hotels near the BMW facilities. While removed from historic attractions, the area provides good value and easy access to the Autobahn and airport. It's particularly suitable for those attending events at Olympiahalle or visiting BMW attractions.
The eastern outskirts near the Messegelände (fairgrounds) and airport feature purpose-built business hotels. While far from tourist attractions, these areas are essential during major trade fairs and offer convenience for early flights. The S-Bahn provides 40-minute connections to the city center.
Pasing functions as a secondary hub west of Munich with its own shopping district and S-Bahn connections. Accommodation here offers good value and serves as a practical base for those with cars or visiting western Bavaria. The area feels distinctly suburban but maintains good transport links.
Accommodation Landscape
What to expect from accommodation options across Munich
Munich hosts all major international chains including Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt, and InterContinental, particularly near the Hauptbahnhof and business districts. German chains like Motel One, Meininger, and 25hours Hotels offer reliable mid-range and budget options with good design standards. The Oktoberfest period sees even budget chains implementing premium pricing and minimum stays. Business-focused brands like NH Collection and Courtyard by Marriott cluster near the trade fair grounds and airport.
Traditional Bavarian guesthouses (Pensionen) and family-run hotels offer authentic experiences, particularly in residential districts like Schwabing and Haidhausen. These typically feature breakfast rooms with regional specialties and owners who provide local insights. Smaller boutique hotels have emerged in converted buildings, offering design-forward accommodations with personal service. Vacation rental apartments have grown significantly, though regulations require registration and limit short-term rentals in some areas.
Munich offers several accommodation types reflecting Bavarian culture: traditional guesthouses with wood-paneled rooms and feather duvets; converted brewery buildings maintaining historic character; and Alpine-style lodges in suburban areas. Some properties near beer gardens offer rooms above or adjacent to historic establishments. During Oktoberfest, temporary accommodation in converted offices, schools, and even tents becomes available, though quality varies significantly. The city also has several historic grand hotels from the late 19th and early 20th centuries that maintain period character.
Booking Tips for Munich
Country-specific advice for finding the best accommodation
Book 10-12 months in advance for Oktoberfest accommodation, as properties sell out entirely and implement 3-7 night minimum stays. Consider staying in outer districts or neighboring towns like Freising or Dachau with S-Bahn connections, as these offer better value and availability. Be aware that cancellation policies are typically strict during this period, and prices can be 3-5 times normal rates even for budget properties.
Major trade fairs (Bauma, ISPO, BAU) dramatically affect accommodation availability and pricing, particularly in eastern districts near the fairgrounds. Check Munich's trade fair calendar before booking, as business travel during these periods makes even budget hotels expensive. If visiting during a fair, book as early as possible or consider staying outside the city with S-Bahn access, as the entire metropolitan area experiences elevated demand.
Munich's excellent MVV public transport system makes outer districts practical and economical bases. Properties near U-Bahn or S-Bahn stations offer quick access to the center (typically 15-25 minutes) at significantly lower rates than central hotels. Consider purchasing a multi-day transport pass, as the savings on accommodation in districts like Giesing or Pasing can exceed the cost of daily tickets.
Many Munich hotels charge €15-25 for breakfast buffets, which can be expensive for budget travelers. Consider booking room-only rates and using local bakeries (Bäckerei) for authentic and affordable breakfast options. However, during Oktoberfest and major events, included breakfast can provide value and convenience when dining options are crowded.
Smaller Bavarian guesthouses and family-run hotels often offer better rates when contacted directly via phone or email, particularly for longer stays or off-season periods. Many independent properties don't list their full inventory on booking platforms and may offer upgrades or local recommendations when booked directly. This approach is especially effective for properties in residential districts like Haidhausen and Schwabing.
When to Book
Timing matters for both price and availability across Munich
Book 3-6 months in advance for summer travel (June-August) and Christmas market season (late November-December). For Oktoberfest, reservations should be made 10-12 months ahead, as soon as dates are announced. Trade fair periods require similar advance booking, particularly for properties near the Messegelände. Expect limited flexibility and higher deposits during these periods.
Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October, excluding Oktoberfest) offer good availability with 4-8 weeks advance booking typically sufficient. Prices moderate slightly compared to peak summer, and weather remains pleasant for sightseeing. These periods provide the best balance of reasonable rates and good weather, though checking the trade fair calendar remains important.
Winter months (January-March) offer the best value and greatest flexibility, with last-minute bookings often possible at significant discounts. Many hotels offer special rates during this period, and even central properties become affordable. However, some smaller guesthouses may close for annual holidays in January or February, so confirming availability is important.
For regular visits without major events, booking 4-6 weeks in advance provides good selection and reasonable rates. Always check Munich's event calendar (Oktoberfest, Christmas markets, major trade fairs) before booking, as these dramatically impact availability and pricing across the entire city. Flexible travelers can find excellent last-minute deals during quiet winter weeks, while major events require planning up to a year ahead.
Good to Know
Local customs and practical information for Munich