Munich Travel Guide
Our perspectives and tips for visiting Munich.
Munich is the capital of Bavaria and the third largest city in Germany. Located on the banks of River Isar, Munich boasts a rich history that dates back to 1158.
Munich is a city with distinctive Bavarian traditions. It has a proud history and culture that feels different from the rest of the country. The city’s architecture is a blend of Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and modern styles.
Additionally, the city is surrounded by the 741-acre Olympiapark. Visitors to Munich can immerse themselves in the city’s impressive art scene, with many museums, galleries, and street art displays to explore. Whether visiting for the iconic Oktoberfest or experiencing the impressive Christmas markets, Munich always has something new and exciting to discover.
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Welcome to Munich
Best Time to Visit
Depending on your goals, there is no bad time to visit Munich. However, you’ll want to consider your interests. Let’s take a look at what the different months can offer you:
September-October: Fall is my favorite time to visit Munich. In addition to the iconic Oktoberfest festival, you can expect cool days perfect for long bike rides throughout the country’s extensive trail system.
Plus, the leaves have begun to change, making for postcard-worthy views. Of course, Oktoberfest makes for a busy city. In 2023, Munich welcomed 7.2 million visitors during the 2.5-week festival.
November-December: If you’re a Christmas market lover, late November through December 24 is the best time to be in Munich. During this period, Munich comes alive with Glühwein stalls and elaborate Christmas displays.
January-March: For those searching for the best deals, winter is an ideal time to visit Munich. If you don’t mind braving the colder weather, you’ll get to enjoy lower prices on hotels and flights. Plus, Munich celebrates Fasching (Carnival), their second most popular festival, during this time.
April-May: The gardens start blooming, and the famous beer gardens begin to open their doors for the season. In spring, you can catch Frühlingsfest. This is Munich’s Spring Festival, where visitors enjoy traditional music, food, and beer.
June to August: It should come as no surprise that June through August is also a busy season. While you will have to fight the tourist crowds, the summer months are the best time to enjoy beer gardens, hikes in the nearby Alps, and the complete “on season.”
Local Customs and Etiquette
Munich, like many other German cities, has its own unique customs, quirks, and etiquette that visitors could benefit from being aware of. Let’s talk about them:
- Jaywalking is a big no-no: Always wait for the pedestrian signal before crossing the street. Seriously– if you don’t, you’ll probably get yelled at. Even if no cars are coming.
- Don’t sweat the small talk: In Munich, people value their personal space, so don’t be surprised if locals aren’t particularly chatty with strangers. However, once you get to know them, they’re incredibly friendly and welcoming (especially after a few beers!).
- Cash is king: While credit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, there are still many places that only accept cash. Be sure to always carry some euros with you, just in case.
- Always say “Prost!” before taking a drink: In Bavaria, it’s customary to say “post” (meaning “cheers”) before drinking.
- Be punctual: Germans are known for their efficiency and value punctuality. If you have plans with a local, arrive on time or even a few minutes early.
- Respect the quiet hours: There are strict rules about making noise in residential areas on Sundays and public holidays.
- Refrain from loud conversations on public transportation: People tend to keep to themselves while riding public transport. So, try to keep your voice down and avoid making phone calls.
Plan Your Trip to Munich
Embark on an unforgettable journey to Munich, Germany. From its rich cultural heritage to its vibrant neighborhoods, this destination offers a unique blend of experiences for every traveler.