Where to Stay in Munich

Our Favorite Munich Hotels

• 5-Star: Mandarin Oriental
• Midrange: Hotel Metropol link
• For Families: Augustin
• For Couples: DO & CO hotel • Best Pool: Andaz Schwabinger Tor
• Near Airport: Hilton
• Train Station: Sofitel Bayerpost

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Old City encompasses the area settled by William Penn and his fellow Quakers in the late 17th century, on the banks of the Delaware River. Much of the neighborhood is part of Independence National Historical Park, the home of Independence Hall (where the US Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution were signed), and the Liberty Bell, the iconic emblem of American freedom. Today in the Old City numerous historical churches and homes dating to the 18th and 19th centuries stand amongst modern buildings and high-rises. Benjamin Franklin’s Grave is here, as is a museum dedicated to his memory, as well as pretty cobblestone streets such as Elfreth’s Alley, the National Museum of American Jewish History, and the National Constitution Center.

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The Best Area to Stay in Munich

Located on the banks of the Isar River, Munich serves as the capital of the German state of Bavaria. Although it may be most renowned for its annual Oktoberfest beer festival, the city offers attractions year-round for those interested in brews, BMW vehicles, or modern artwork. Munich previously functioned as the seat of the Wittelsbach dynasty, one of Germany’s most powerful noble families, governing the dukes and later kings of Bavaria until 1918. (Bavaria held considerable autonomy before becoming incorporated into a united Germany in 1871.) Presently, Munich stands as Germany’s third largest metropolis and among Europe’s wealthiest; home to companies such as BMW, Siemens, and Allianz, in addition to shaded beer gardens and emblematic Bavarian symbols.

The historical heart of Munich, the Altstadt region should not be overlooked by any visitor to the city. Originally enclosed by medieval walls, the “Old Town” remains packed with historic architecture, expansive squares, valuable museums, stores full of goods and bustling markets—you won’t need to venture far if visiting for just a short while to keep yourself occupied. Absolute spots that must be seen are Marienplatz, the city’s central plaza with its twin town halls; the Residenz, former residence of Bavaria’s royalty; and the food-focused Viktualienmarkt marketplace. But do not depart without savoring a beer and soft pretzel at the renowned Hofbräuhaus beer hall, a tourist attraction with a legendary status. Staying within Altstadt guarantees you can access any location inside the walled old district within 20 minutes on foot, beyond top attractions also hosting quality shopping and historic drinking establishments. If rates there exceed your means, examine the broad range of affordable lodging in Bahnhofsviertel, the compact region just south of the primary train station—a walk or tram ride takes you to the Old Town. Directly to the east lies upscale Lehel containing some suitably luxury hotels also within walking distance of Altstadt, as well as museums like Haus der Kunstart and the Bavarian National Museum.”

The second most popular region to stay is north of Altstadt in the neighborhoods of Maxvorstadt and Schwabing – some of our preferred hotels are here. Maxvorstadt is often known as the Museum Quarter for its abundance of world-renowned galleries and museums (it’s best known for the Blue Rider paintings in the Lenbachhaus), while Schwabing is thronged with students and is known for its beautiful Jugendstil (art nouveau) architecture. The latter also benefits from running north alongside the Englischer Garten: the largest inner-city park globally.

North of Maxvorstadt is the wonderful Olympiapark, which has been well-integrated into the city since hosting the 1972 Olympic Games. There’s plenty to do in Olympiapark, including Seaworld and the BMW museum, but the highlight is its needle-like tower, which has the highest viewing platform in the city (623ft/190m), with perspectives of the Alps.

If spending time shopping and eating interests you, be sure to allot at minimum half a day wandering the roadways south of Altstadt, in the area known as Glockenbachviertel. The locality centers around the lively Gärtnerplatz and forms the heart of the Ludwigsvorstadt-Isarvorstadt district. It`s the trendiest section of Munich, filled with laidback bars, independent shops, and fantastic restaurants. The sole true tourist attraction here is the incredible Deutsches Museum, situated on an island in the Isar. Considered one of Germany`s largest and best museums, it`s a national temple committed to science and technology showcasing some of the coolest hands-on displays of any museum globally, including a realistic mine, an aviation hall, and a planetarium.

Just east of Altstadt, across the Isar on the opposite side of the Deutsches Museum, lies the neighborhoods of Au-Haidhausen. Of the two, Au has a more residential character, but it merits exploration thanks to its charming, cobbled back streets and distinctive old houses lining little streams. To Au`s north, Haidhausen has a totally different atmosphere; as soon as one crosses over the river, it feels lively due to the cluster of restaurants and cafés around the Gasteig (one of Munich`s most important cultural hubs and home to the Munich Philharmonic Orchestra). Don`t overlook historic Wiener Platz, surrounded by fairytale houses, which hosts daily food stalls and has one of the city`s best beer gardens.

Many visitors become acquainted with the area west of Altstadt, regularly known as Westend, as it is home to the enormous Theresienwiese open space, where Oktoberfest is held. The globe’s largest folk festival, held over three weeks in the last two weeks of September and the first week of October, draws millions of guests to the city each year, making lodging scarce and costs soar. Outside of this time, the area remains worth a visit for the majestic statue of Bavaria, serene Bavariapark, and for the transportation wing of the Deutsches Museum, the Verkehrszentrum.

Munich Travel Tips

  • While touring the old city center on foot is fairly uncomplicated, to attain the outer neighborhoods you’ll want to use the city’s excellent public transportation framework. Run by Münchner Verkehrs-und Tarifverbund (MVV), this incorporates the Munich S-Bahn trains, Munich U-Bahn subway, trams, and city buses. It’s economical and straightforward to utilize, with many online assets, maps at stations, and announcements in English. It’s not a good idea to lease (or employ) a vehicle while here – the roadways can be congested (and complicated to navigate), and parking is pricey.
  • Using public bicycles is possible through organizations including Call a Bike. Munich presents a great place to ride bicycles, with miles of dedicated pathways and routes.
  • Munich Airport is roughly 20 miles (32km) northeast of the city. As one of the largest airports in Germany, it’s well connected to cities all over the world. The S1 and S8 S-Bahn trains efficiently transport you from here into the city center (main train station) in around 40 minutes (every 10–20min). The train is usually faster than the Lufthansa Express Bus.
  • If you truly intend to visit many of Munich`s major attractions, consider the “München Card” or the “München City Pass”. Both include options that cover 1 to 5 days, with the City Pass (around €38) providing free entry to 45 top sights and tours. If your plans are less certain, the cheaper “München Card” (from €4.90) still offers a 70 percent discount on most attractions.
  • Free wi-fi is accessible at Munich Airport and across the city itself under the networks “M-WLAN Free Wi-Fi” or “M-WLAN Secure Wi-Fi”.
  • You’ll find considerably more English speakers in cosmopolitan Munich than smaller German towns, but not everyone staffing shops and dining spots will understand you. Try learning a handful of words and numbers in German before departing.

The Best Places to Stay in Munich

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Best Neighborhoods in Munich for…

  • The historic Altstadt district is best for sightseeing in Munich.

    • While it can be costly, staying in the Altstadt (Old Town) makes the most sense for initial visitors to Munich. Within a 20-minute walk of each other are a few of the city`s premier attractions: the beautifully constructed town halls on Marienplatz; the Viktualienmarkt, a sprawling produce marketplace; the immense Residenz, lavish home to the dukes and kings of Bavaria; and the gracefully designed Frauenkirche, with its distinctive twin spires. If you have any energy remaining after all that, you could stroll along the distinguished Maximilianstrasse or the Fünf Hӧfe mall, both replete with high-end stores, or visit the outstanding city and Jewish museums in Sankt-Jakobs-Platz. Altstadt also boasts excellent restaurants, cafes, and bars, and it`s not far from the museums in Maxvorstadt.

  • Best for budget-friendly sightseeing: Bahnhofsviertel
    It’s also worth considering this tiny multicultural neighborhood south of the main train station (Hauptbahnhof) – you’ll find a vast range of hotels here, especially at the budget level, and though it lacks the character of the Old Town, it’s a relatively short walk to the old western gate at Karlsplatz. The other plus is its proximity to the main train station and the local transportation network – it’s a great base for exploring the rest of the city and region.
  • The premier neighborhood in Munich for cocktails is south of Altstadt (Gärtnerplatz).

    • The roadways encircling Gärtnerplatz offer numerous chances to find amazing bars, live music, and club nights, however one current pattern Munich`s inside gathering has taken to with pride is mixology. Among the best spots are Für Freunde Bar, which has DJs and moving at the ends of the week; The High, a petite, unpretentious bar concentrating on highballs; Niederlassung, whose plenteous couches are precisely what are needed after somewhat of their reasonably evaluated refreshments; The Flushing Meadows Hotel, whose rooftop patio essentially arrives at perspectives of the Alps; and Zephyr, whose imaginative mixtures will make your eyes pop. Different notable spots to get an incredible mixed drink incorporate Die Goldene Bar at the Haus Der Kunst in Lehel; and Vega Bar and Wallace Bar in Schwabing

    Munich`s LGBT community is one of the largest in Germany, with many bars and clubs concentrated around Gärtnerplatz and throughout the Glockenbachviertel neighborhood. The annual week-long Christopher Street Day celebrations (Pride festival) take place over nine days in July.

  • Top Munich Neighborhood for Food and Restaurants: Altstadt
    Glockenbach has the trendiest restaurants, Schwabing the classiest, and Haidhausen the best foreign food, but Altstadt tops them all thanks to the draw of its taverns, the Viktualienmarkt, the world-famous gastronomic department store Dallmayr, and some outstanding Michelin-starred joints that just keep performing. On top of all the Bavarian delicacies served in traditional spots such as Wirtshaus Zum Straubinger and the Ratskeller, notable eateries include Restaurant Pfistermühle, which is set in a 16th-century mill covered in vines; and the 3-Michelin starred Atelier. On the edge of the Viktualienmarkt, do not miss the doughnut-like schmalznudel made fresh at Cafe Frischhut. And do as the locals do in the market itself: grab cheese, meats, and radishes from the stalls, sit in the central beer garden, and have a picnic with your pint. For kaffee und kuchen (coffee and cake) head to historic Café Luitpold, a former Thomas Mann hangout. For a splurge, consider local gourmet icon Tantris, located up in Schwabing since 1971.
  • Best Neighborhood in Munich for Traditional Pub Culture: Altstadt
    Visitors to Munich will want to experience the city`s traditional taverns known as wirtshauses, bierkellers (beer cellars), or biergartens (beer gardens). Inside, the decor often includes wooden paneling while shady chestnut trees and long tables can be found outside alongside hearty Bavarian cuisine and plentiful beer. Many date back centuries and were previously linked to Munich`s oldest breweries like Augustiner, Paulaner, Franziskaner, and Löwenbräu, whose weissbier or weizenbier (wheat beers) are popular. Look for amenities such as lockers for patrons` steins (beer mugs) and Stammtischen (tables reserved for regulars). All serve reasonably priced draught beer and classic Bavarian dishes with some closed on Sundays. Notable spots include: Hofbräuhaus – perhaps the most famous of its kind globally featuring traditionally dressed staff, oompah music, and room for 3,000 people (worth at least one beer despite the crowds); Nürnberger Bratwurst Glöckl am Dom which has welcomed luminaries such as Walt Disney, Ingrid Bergman, John Huston, Ted Kennedy, and Karl Lagerfeld to its dark wood paneled dining room near the Cathedral; the medieval Zum Dürnbräu; and Augustiner Stammhaus, the flagship tavern of the Augustiner brewery on Neuhauser Strasse which features multiple rooms and an Italianate beer garden.

    There are several outstanding beer halls beyond the city center as well. Favorites comprise Augustinerkeller (just north of the main train station); the huge beer garden at the Chinese Tower in the center of the Englischer Garten; Hofbräukeller in Au-Haidhausen; Löwenbräukeller in Maxvorstadt; and Paulaner Bräuhaus south of the city center.

  • North of Altstadt neighborhood in Munich has the best offerings of art and culture.

    • Within the center of the Maxvorstadt neighborhood, located between the grand Königsplatz and Theresienstrasse, lies an area known as the Kunstareal, home to 18 museums and exhibition halls as well as over 40 galleries all within walking distance. First determine which attractions you wish to view in the major art collections jointly called Die Pinakotheken. The Alte Pinakothek showcases some of the finest works from the 14th to 18th centuries including pieces by Dürer, Raphael, Leonardo, Titian, El Greco, Rubens and Rembrandt, currently containing the best exhibits from the Neue Pinakothek too (covering Goya to Picasso), which is closed for refurbishment until 2025. The Pinakothek der Moderne focuses on art from the 1960s onwards as well as architecture and design, while the Brandhorst concentrates on contemporary art housing an excellent array of works by Cy Twombly. Additional noteworthy museums and galleries include the Lenbachhaus containing the world’s finest collection of pieces from the Blue Rider Group (Kandinsky, Klee et al), and the Staatliche Antikensammlungen und Glyptothek gathering many Greek, Etruscan, Roman and Egyptian treasures across two museums near the Königsplatz. Also situated on the plaza is the NS-Dokumentationszentrum, a center for learning and understanding more about Munich`s dark Nazi period.

  • Most Romantic Area in Munich: Englischer Garten
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    • Munich`s “English Garden” in Schwabing is the largest urban park in the world and presents many chances for romance. Extending north to south along the river Isar, there is much to discover such as a Chinese pavilion (with a beer garden), wooded regions, hiking trails, taverns and beer gardens, fields for nudism, a boating lake, and an area for surfing (it must be seen to believe), to name just a few attractions. The Mini-Hofbräuhaus im Englischen Garten halfway up is usually far more tranquil than the common city beer gardens, and we also like elegant Aumeister, at the northern end. The main park starts at the northeastern corner of the Hofgarten (another romantic green space). Begin or conclude your date at Die Goldene Bar, a fabulous bar-restaurant dripping in gold leaf in the contemporary art gallery, the Haus der Kunst, on the southern edge of the main park. Romantic places to stay on the park’s fringes include Gästehaus Englischer Garten and Biederstein am Englischen Garten

  • Best Neighborhood for a Local Feel: East of Altstadt (Au-Haidhausen)
    Everything feels less touristy as you cross over the Isar river into the Au-Haidhausen borough, even though you’re only a 10-minute walk from Altstadt. Of the two neighborhoods, Au has a more residential quality, but comes alive during the Auer Dult folk festival (held every four months at Mariahilfplatz). It’s one of Au’s biggest attractions and specializes in ceramic and pottery stalls alongside traditional Bavarian entertainment. North of Au, Haidhausen feels more bustling thanks to the many restaurants and cafes near the Gasteig (one of Munich’s most important cultural hubs housing the Munich Philharmonic Orchestra). Some great squares also await exploration, like Max-Weber-Platz, Weissenburger Platz, and Rosenheimer Platz, but don`t miss historic Wiener Platz surrounded by fairytale houses which hosts daily food stalls (the fish stall is exceptional) and has one of the city`s best beer gardens. The eastern extension of the Englischer Garten located here, known as the Maximiliansanlagen, has abundant riverside trails as well as the majestic Maximilianeum home to the Bavarian state legislature
  • Preferred Areas for Shopping: Glockenbachviertel and Altstadt
    The traditional shopping experience in Munich – and luxury malls within the city – makes the historic Altstadt district undoubtedly the best option, where a vast section of the Old Town becomes an expansive outdoor shopping centre frequented by locals as much as visitors. Top malls in this area include the Fünf Höfe, the upscale Kaufingertor Passage located near the giant Galeria Kaufhof München department store, and Hofstatt. Major stores in this area include Hirmer for menswear, the historic Lodenfrey department store which is a good place to find dirndls or traditional Bavarian dresses, the upscale Oberpollinger department store, and the posh Kustermann homeware store. For mainstream international fashion options, browse Sendlinger Strasse, or visit Maximilianstrasse for designer boutiques. Munich’s large Christmas market takes place on Marienplatz

    For a more autonomous shopping atmosphere head beyond the Old Town central area. Gärtnerplatzviertel and Glockenbachviertel, south of the historic core, is our favorite locale, home to independent boutiques and sustainable German companies. Highlights include the Capricorn Store, which has a specialty in previously owned high-end fashion; the delicate jewelry at the showroom of celebrated local designer Saskia Diez; sustainable fashion at Akjumii; and trendy women`s clothing at Mykke Hofmann.

    • If you want to purchase traditional lederhosen and vintage dirndls while saving money, check out Michaela Klein’s Holareidulijö in Maxvorstadt. Alternatively, you can rent traditional clothing to suitably dress for Oktoberfest (or anytime) from Bavarian Outfitters.

  • Safety in Munich
  • Tourists generally find Munich very safe, though Oktoberfest presents increased threats from impaired judgment and crowded conditions attracting petty thieves amid alcohol consumption.

The 10 Best Neighborhoods in Munich for Tourists

1. Altstadt

Unlike many of Europe’s showcase cities, life continues normally for locals in Munich’s Altstadt (Old Town), despite heavy tourism – locals still frequent it for shopping, eating, and socializing. For visitors it represents the ideal place to stay, with the city’s major attractions and historic sites within a 20-minute walk of each other. Begin in Marienplatz, Munich’s magnificent central square, whose most notable features are its two town halls. The more recent of the two structures, the 19th-century Neues Rathaus, dominates with its charming Glockenspiel clock that sounds at 11 am, noon, and 5 pm daily, while the older 14th-century Altes Rathaus on the eastern side of the square is arguably more aesthetically pleasing, with its stepped roof and pedestrian walkways underneath.

Overlooking Marienplatz from the south is the religious building known as Alter Peter (Old Peter, St. Peter, or Peterskirche), which has a great vantage point. Further south is the Viktualienmarkt, an expansive outside marketplace for produce and regional specialty food like leberkäse and schmalznudel (it’s also the best spot for an affordable meal, and has its own beer garden in the center). Nearby on Sankt-Jakobs-Platz, the Münchner Stadtmuseum provides an excellent overview of the city’s history, while the Jewish Museum focuses on the history of Jewish Munich. Opened here as a contemporary cubic design in 2006, the striking Ohel-Jakob-Synagogue replaced the old synagogue destroyed by the Nazis in 1938. Munich also has many beautiful places of worship; a short stroll west of the Jewish Museum stands Asamkirche Catholic church, which boasts by far the most beautiful interior.

Munich’s main walking path for shopping stretches west from Marienplatz along Kaufingerstrasse. Towards the northwest is the Cathedral Church of Our Dear Lady, nicknamed the Frauenkirche, featuring its distinctive bulb-like tops that gained motivation from Eastern architecture. West of the Frauenkirche, the stunningly lovely 16th-century church of St Michael contains the tomb of “Mad” King Ludwig II and other Wittelsbach rulers.

North of Marienplatz are two prominent squares, Marienhof and Platzl. On the former, visitors should check out the upscale department store Dallmayr; on the latter, the famous Hofbräuhaus is the primary attraction, with roots dating back to 1589 – be sure to order at least one beverage here. Beer aficionados can learn more by visiting the Bier & Oktoberfest Museum located southeast of this area.

A little further north is the Residenz, a series of adjoining grand buildings and outdoor areas which jointly constitute the living space of the rulers of Bavaria from 1508 to 1918 (what survives today is mostly the result of post-war reconstruction). It’s immense, with some truly magnificent decorations and works of art – take the audio tour but skip rooms that don’t appeal, otherwise you’ll be there for hours (it costs extra to visit the Treasury and Cuvilliés Theatre, but these are not worth it unless you have a really strong interest).

Next to the Residenz is the Odeonsplatz – a square with remarkably Italian-style architecture – and the Hofgarten: a beautifully landscaped green area; grab a beverage at Schumann’s to reenergize or unwind. Stroll up and down Maximilianstrasse east of the Residenz if wanting a taste of high-end shopping and dining, as it is home to Munich’s most luxurious retailers and eateries, along with the Bavarian State Opera.

You`ll find a larger choice of lodging in the neighboring Bahnhofsviertel area, especially more affordable options, though that location lacks the atmosphere.

2. North of Altstadt: Maxvorstadt & Kunstareal

Given the volume of cultural institutions situated in Maxvorstadt, staying nearby makes sense for those interested in history and the arts, allowing easy walks between locations. Streets like Theresienstrasse and Josefsplatz offer the best sense of this student-filled neighborhood – Augustenstrasse is especially active – but anywhere north of the main train station or old town remains conveniently on foot.

Some of the top museums in terms of museums include Die Pinakotheken, which are known collectively: The Alte Pinakothek houses a fabulous gathering of Old Masters, the Neue Pinakothek is specifically good for 19th-century German art and Impressionism, and the Pinakothek der Moderne concentrates on modern and contemporary art. Nearby, Die Neue Sammlung is an intriguing museum of industrial design, while the unique Brandhorst Museum opened in 2009 to house a collection of German and primarily American modern art, notably Cy Twombly’s Lepanto paintings. The Staatliches Museum Ägyptischer Kunst (State Museum of Egyptian Art) opened in 2013 to house a huge collection of Ancient Egyptian artifacts.

The procession of museums continues southwestward in Königsplatz, though this now tranquil green square has had a darker history: this was the site of many Nazi rallies and was the location of Hitler’s Munich headquarters. On the east side is the so-called Führerbau, where Hitler had his office and where the infamous Munich Agreement to abandon Czechoslovakia was signed in 1938; a small plaque recalls the event, but the building now serves as the Munich University of Music and Theatre. On the site of the former Nazi party headquarters (aka “Brown House”), the enlightening but harrowing NS-Dokumentationszentrum chronicles the rise of Nazism in Germany with special attention to Munich.

Currently, the prominent Neoclassical constructions occupying Königsplatz function as museums showcasing artifacts from ancient Greece and Rome: the Glyptothek (art gallery housing sculptures), and the Staatliche Antikensammlungen (State Collections presenting antiquities), separated by a Greek-style gateway known as the Propylaea. In the vicinity stands the Lenbachhaus, a must-see for art admirers due to its rare holding of works by the Blaue Reiter (Blue Rider) artist collective. The eastern border of Maxvorstadt is demarcated by grand Ludwigstrasse and one of its premier universities, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München. Not far from the Siegestor (city gate), a memorial in front of the university commemorates the anti-Nazi student group, Weisse Rose (tiles symbolizing the students` anti-fascist leafleting are set within the pavers). You can also tour the Denkstätte Weisse Rose (White Rose Memorial) and annex museum.”

On the western side of the district, beer aficionados can make a pilgrimage to the Löwenbräukeller, original 19th-century home of the Löwenbräu brewery, and the famous Augustiner-Keller, located north of the main train station.

Be sure to stop by the Schelling-Salon at Schellingstrasse 54 for a drink and a game of billiards/pool – it’s been around since 1872. Another location with lots of history is AlterSimpl, a cozy wood-paneled home to artists and writers since 1903.

3. North of Altstadt: Schwabing & Englischer Garten

Remaining in Schwabing is advantageous not only for the academic atmosphere (students from nearby Ludwigs-Maximilians-Universität and the Technical University of Munich reside here), and the inexpensive as well as entertaining options for eating and drinking that come with that, but also for seeking out pristine Art Nouveau architecture. The area also possesses prestige for fine art (personalities such as Wassily Kandinsky, Paul Klee, and their colleagues lived and worked around here), though it`s no longer Munich`s Bohemian quarter. The draw for many, however, is the enormous Englischer Garten. Be sure to dedicate at minimum half a day in the park and allow yourself to wander aimlessly, but do not overlook the Chinesischer Turm (Chinese Tower), which has a popular beer garden at its base and was modeled after the pagoda at Kew Gardens in London.

• Some of the best and most romantic hotels in Munich are actually situated here, not in the Old Town, with somewhat cheaper rates to compensate for longer travel times into the city center.

At the northernmost edge of Schwabing is the extremely modern Allianz Arena, home to Bayern Munich, one of Germany`s (and Europe`s) best soccer teams. Visitors can see the team museum here or attend a game. The arena itself is an innovative wonder, designed by the architects Herzog & de Meuron from Switzerland. It dominates the tiny nearby Heilig-Kreuz-Kirche, the oldest church in Munich, dating from the 11th to 12th centuries.

4. North of Altstadt: Olympiapark (Am Riesenfeld)

The northern district of Am Riesenfeld is generally known for Olympiapark (Olympic Park), built for the 1972 Munich Olympics, and the vast BMW headquarters nearby. Unless you are a major BMW enthusiast, there’s not much point in staying up here – it’s easily accessible from the Old Town via the U-Bahn subway (U3 and U8). In the park itself the main attractions are the soaring Olympiaturm TV tower, for sensational views over the whole city, the original Olympia stadion itself (tours available), and the Sea Life aquarium. The Olympiaalm is the city’s highest beer garden, set on the slopes of the Olympiaberg (Olympic Mountain), built out of the debris from World War II bombing. The Olympiahalle serves as a major concertvenue, while history buffs should check out the multimedia “Einschnitt’ memorial pavilion commemorating the 12 victims of the 1972 Munich Massacre.

  • Best Walking Tour on the Trail: Fira Walking & Food Tour – Eat, drink, and walk along the Santorini caldera from Firostefani to Fira. It’s a short walk (about 15 minutes) with magical views and all downhill. Great food and wine too.

Visit this website to check the latest information on `Flying Fox` zipline rides across the Olympiastadion stadium, or guided climbs across the stadium roof.

5. South of Altstadt: Glockenbachviertel/Gärtnerplatz and Schlachthofviertel

The Glockenbach neighborhood, sometimes called Glockenbachviertel or referred to more broadly as Ludwigsvorstadt-Isarvorstadt, is considered the most trendy area in Munich filled with hip bars, stores and restaurants. The vibrant Gärtnerplatz serves as the heart of the district which is dominated by the grand Staatstheater am Gärtnerplatztheater. Also worth visiting is the pleasant promenade along the Isar River and the Deutsches Museum, Munich’s expansive museum of science and technology situated on narrow “Museum Island” mid-river. Another lovely place to explore in this neighborhood is the old cemetery, the Alter Südfriedhof. South of the cemetery lies Schlachthofviertel, the former slaughterhouse district, which similar to Glockenbach has developed its own underground cultural scene in recent years. In addition to hip bars and restaurants, there is the longest legal graffiti wall in Munich, the Bahnwärter Thiel music venue, and the new Volkstheater.

Catching drinks and snacks at the all-night Kiosk Reichenbachbrücke, which overlooks the river is a traditional event for those in Glockenbach.

The Glockenbach and Gärtnerplatzviertel neighborhoods form the nucleus of Munich’s LGBTQ community. Freddie Mercury lived (and partied) here in the early 1980s.

6. East of Altstadt: Lehel

The affluent, primarily residential area located between the Isar River and the northern half of the Old Town is known as Lehel. It’s one of the most scenic districts in Munich, home to government offices, grand buildings from the Wilhelmine and Art Nouveau eras, and lavish hotels. Along Maximilianstrasse there’s the Museum Five Continents, the city’s family-friendly museum of ethnography, while the curious Alpine Museum sits on Prater Island within the river, chronicling the history of mountaineering. Further north, the equally stately Prinzregentenstrasse boulevard passes the Haus der Kunst (modern art gallery and home to the exclusive P1 nightclub) and the unbelievable sight of surfers riding an artificial wave in the fast-flowing river at the southern end of the Englischen Garten. Next up is the Bayerisches Nationalmuseum (Bavarian National Museum), one of the city’s main museums and must-see for anyone interested in the history and art of Bavaria. Beyond here is Sammlung Schack (Schack Collection), containing a selection of rare 19th-century German paintings once belonging to Count von Schack.

7. East of Altstadt: Au-Haidhausen

Exploring across the Isar River from Lehel and the Altstadt unveils appealing finds such as chilled ethnic eateries, a miniature version of Viktualienmarkt at Wiener Platz, some of the finest musical performances in the city (classical at the Gasteig, home of the Munich Philharmonic, jazz at Unterfahrt, contemporary at Blitz Club), and cute cottages and cobbled lanes to investigate. Don`t overlook the art nouveau beauty of the Müller’sches Volksbad (a lovely public swimming facility accomplished in 1901), the majestic Maximilineum (home ofthe Bavarian State Parliament), and the massive beer garden of Hofbräukeller’s on a sunny evening (pure heaven), the former Höfbraubier brewery. You can gain a sense of what it was like for laborers to inhabit here in the 19th century at the Üblacker-Häusltenement museum, while the easygoing Franzosenviertel (French Quarter) centers on peaceful Bordeauxplatz. Admirers of the “Rocky Horror Picture Show” can see screenings (in English) at the Museums-Lichtspiele, Munich`s second-oldest cinema (constructed in 1910).

• Two major annual festivals occur here in Munich: Auer Dult (an antique and handicraft fair and folk festival, three times yearly) on Mariahilfplat, and the Starkbierfest (“strong beer festival”) at Paulaner am Nockherberg (usually held in March).

8. West of Altstadt: Bahnhofsviertel

The small neighborhood to the south of Munich`s main railway station may not be the most appealing area of the city, but it contains many hotels, variously priced than other parts of the city. In addition to cost benefits, guests have the advantage of easy access to the station for transportation of luggage, and public transit links. It is also a brief walk to the western outskirts of Old Town at Karlsplatz.

Bahnhofsviertel in Frankfurt does not contain many significant attractions to see in terms of sights, and at first glance it may appear to be somewhat run down compared to other parts of the city. However, there is no need to be afraid – it is a culturally diverse area, especially with a large Middle Eastern population, that is completely safe for tourists (the neighborhood would not be filled with so many hotels if it posed any real danger). In addition to an array of excellent Turkish and Middle Eastern restaurants, you will find Indian, Thai, and Chinese dining options, supermarkets and produce stands, jewelry shops, and inexpensive cell phone stores (coffee shops, regular grocery stores, craft beer pubs, and Bavarian restaurants are also present to cater to visitors).

9. Westend (Oktoberfest)

The area southwest of the main station is where most of the Oktoberfest activities (mid-September until early October) occur, on the vast Theresienwiese field in the Westend neighborhood, but if that was someone`s only impression of Munich, it would truly be a disservice. Bordering the Oktoberfest site stands the majestic statue of Bavaria, which visitors can climb to enjoy a wonderful panoramic view of the site. Behind Bavaria lies the Ruhmeshalle, a tribute to Bavaria’s most renowned citizens. Just to the west is the charming Bavariapark, which provides locals with a quiet place to relax, and the excellent Deutsches Museum annex – the Verkehrszentrum – with its enormous hangar-like rooms filled with vehicles and other forms of transportation through history, which are certainly worth seeing if in the area.
• The Theresienwiese site is also home to the annual Tollwood Winterfestival, held in late November and December, featuring an artsy Christmas Market. The “Weltsalon” tent features a program of international theater.
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  • All’Arco (casual, hole-in-the-wall bacaro for excellent local wine and appetizers)

10. West of Altstadt: Neuhausen-Nymphenburg

The highlight of this distant western area of Munich is Schloss Nymphenburg, a palace with beautifully preserved structures and perfectly manicured gardens (such as the Botanical Garden Munich-Nymphenburg). The palace dates back to 1664 and makes for a lovely day trip. (Tram #17 from the main train station takes around 25 minutes.) Duke Franz of Bavaria, the current head of the House of Wittelsbach, still lives in part of it. The complex includes King Ludwig I’s sensational Schönheitengalerie (“Beauty Gallery”), the BIOTOPIA lab (a foretaste of what’s to come in the future Natural History Museum Bavaria), the Marstallmuseum (Museum of Carriage and Sleighs), the Nymphenburg Porcelain Museum, and the Amalienburg hunting lodge.

To the south of the palace lies the famous Hirschgarten, open since 1791 and the largest beer garden in Bavaria. If you walk along the Auffahrtsallee bordering the canal from the palace into Neuhausen itself you can visit Taxisgarten, a pleasant beer garden, slow food pioneer Café Ruffini, or sample the gelato at Eiscafé Venezia, a local establishment on central Rotkreuzplatz. It’s also worth checking out the striking Herz-Jesu-Kirche, a giant glass cube completed in 2000 as an uber-modern Catholic Church.

• Nymphenburg is an easy day trip from Munich, but if you would like to spend the night here the Hotel Laimer Hof is an optimal choice (within walking distance of the palace). Another excellent option is the Hotel Kriemhild am Hirschgarten. A bit further west lies Schloss Blutenburg, which was also formerly a hunting lodge of the Bavarian dukes. If traveling by vehicle and wanting to stay nearby, the Hotel Blutenburg is an affordable and reliable option.

Other Munich Neighborhoods

We’ve covered our preferred neighborhoods to go to and remain in more detail above, but with more time the following districts also prove worth checking out. Additionally, you can attain significant tourist destinations such as Lake Starnberg and the “ Five Lakes Country” beyond the city employing public transportation. Another day trip, significant for anybody wanting to comprehend Germany’s dark past, is the Nazi concentration camp at Dachau in the northwest of the city, which is easily accessed via the S-Bahn (S2) plus a brief bus ride (around 45 minutes complete).

  • Oberschleissheim – Schleissheim Palace Complex: Approximately 10 miles (15km) north of central Munich, the suburban area of Oberschleissheim is especially renowned for the Schleissheim Palace complex comprising three grand Baroque architectural works that served as summer residences for rulers of Bavaria – namely the Old Schleissheim Palace, New Schleissheim Palace, and Lustheim Palace. Adding a visit to the Deutsches Museum Flugwerft (the aircraft section of the Deutsches Museum, displaying over 60 airplanes and helicopters) means it`s easily worthwhile occupying a full day exploring the sights. The S-Bahn (S1) whisks between Munich main train station and Oberschleissheim in approximately 20 minutes, but there are two excellent hotels in the area if touring by road – the Blauer Karpfen and Chalét Zum Kurfürst.
  • Southern Munich: Among the family-oriented attractions of Munich`s southern area are those located along the leafy banks of the Isar River and adjacent canal (the Isarauen or “floodplains”), with a beautifully restored stretch south of the Wittelsbacherbrücke called the Flaucher. (The popular Flauchersteg footbridge is a spot for sunbathing and swimming in summer.) The Flaucher also contains Zum Flaucher Biergarten, a renowned Munich beer garden. The primary draw is the extensive Hellabrunn Zoo, which additionally has an aquarium. Further south allows touring the studios at Bavaria Filmstadt, where the German hit TV show Das Boot was filmed, as well as where special effects for the Neverending Story were created. Our favorite hotels down here encompass Leonardo City South and Gasthaus Alter Wirt.Rioca Munich Posto 3 is excellent, but only worthwhile if driving. There’s also a decent youth hostel, HI Munich Park.
  • Bogenhausen and Messe München: Bogenhausen lies northeast of central Munich, across the Isar River. It’s a relatively affluent residential area today, with several attractions near the Luitpoldbrücke connecting it to Lehel. The neighborhood’s main street, Prinzregentenstrasse, begins with the iconic Freidensengel monument atop a golden “Angel of Peace”, and leads to the Museum Villa Stuck, former home and studio to painter Franz von Stuck (a teacher of Paul Klee and Wassily Kandinsky). Further east is the Prinzregenten theater, home of the Bavarian Theater Academy and State Opera. Heading north along Maria-Theresia-Strasse is the Monacensia Library, housing a permanent exhibition on renowned German writer Thomas Mann, who once lived nearby. Top hotels in Bogenhausen include the luxury Parkhotel Rothof,Best Western Arabellapark,Hyperion, and the Westin Grand. Further east is the exhibition complex of Messe München. If you are attending a trade show, most budget hotels near Messe München itself offer less than ideal accommodations; your best choices are the H4,Motel One, and Novotel. (It’s otherwise 20 minutes by subway from the Old Town.)
  • There is little reason to remain close to Munich Airport (München-Flughafen) far to the northeast of the city unless an early departure is required. If lodging here is necessary, the most suitable choices are the costly but convenient Hilton and affordable Novotel on airport grounds, plus the aptly-denoted Munich Airport Hotel,prizeotel, and Premier Inn just outside airport grounds.
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Welcome to my travel website! I’m Mary Howard, an American who has been exploring the world full-time for 8 years.

Together with my husband, Intan, we often find ourselves in our second home, Bali, but our adventures take us to exciting destinations all over the globe.

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