The Best Time to Visit Munich Germany (And When I’d Go Again) 2025

If you’ve read any of my other Germany travel guides, you probably already know that I’m a big fan of visiting Munich. I wouldn’t necessarily want to live there, but from a tourist’s perspective, I honestly think Munich is one of the best, maybe even the best city to visit in Germany.

I’ve been a few times now, twice in the summer and more recently over Christmas, and every trip has been amazing. Munich just has this cultural and traditional vibe that feels so different from other German cities. 

Between the pretty old town, cobblestone streets, and the endless beer gardens, beer halls, and hearty Bavarian food, it’s hard not to fall in love with it.

Since I know a lot of you are probably planning a trip to Germany for Christmas markets, Oktoberfest, or maybe next spring and summer, I thought I’d put together this little guide on the best time to visit Munich, based on my own experiences and when I’d go again.

The Best Time to Visit Munich – My Experience

As I mentioned, I’ve been to Munich a few times now, most recently over Christmas, but also in summer, and even once on a family trip back when I still lived in Germany.

No matter the season, I always end up having such a good time here. And honestly, even though I’m German, I still feel like a total tourist in Munich. 

Where I grew up near Cologne doesn’t have quite the same old-town charm, there are fewer cobblestone streets, massive churches, or fairytale castles. So every time I’m in Munich, I find myself impressed all over again by the very “stereotypical Germany” vibe that Bavaria does so well.

Some of my favorite things are simply wandering through the old town, browsing the Viktualienmarkt, and (of course) spending long afternoons in beer gardens and beer halls. There’s just something unbeatable about a giant beer, a plate of traditional Bavarian food, and that lively atmosphere.

Another highlight for me has been the day trips I did from Munich. Over the years, I’ve visited Neuschwanstein Castle, Dachau Concentration Camp, and most recently Salzburg in Austria and every single one was worth it. If you’re planning Munich as your base, I’d 100% recommend making time for a couple of these trips. (I’ve also got full guides on Salzburg and Austria if you’re interested, definitely worth checking out before you go!)

Some Quick Tips for Visiting Munich Germany

Stay central: Munich is best explored on foot, and the old town is beautifully walkable with cobblestone streets and cafés tucked around every corner. I always book a hotel right in the city center so I can wander everywhere without relying on trams or the subway.

Pack smart: German weather loves to keep you guessing. Summers can be hot and sunny, while winters can be icy cold. When I’m visiting around Christmas, I definitely pack an extra layer (especially for my feet). Nothing ruins a Christmas market for me faster than frozen toes.

Get an eSIM: If you’re hopping around Europe, an eSIM is a total lifesaver. I’ve been using Sim Local and it’s been super seamless to stay connected across countries. (You can sign up here for Sim Local and use my discount code GIRLONAZEBRA.)

Book early (and wisely): Winter in Munich is popular. When I visited for Christmas, I booked my hotel several months ahead and I’m so glad I did. Try to plan your trip within the 4–5 weeks before Christmas Day, when all the Christmas markets are fully open.

Rent a car for day trips: Munich is the perfect base for exploring Bavaria and beyond, Neuschwanstein Castle, Salzburg, and the Alps are all within easy reach. We always rent a car for the days we’re taking trips; it’s way more flexible than trying to figure out buses and trains.

Munich Travel Guide by Season

1. Munich in Winter

On my recent longer trip back home to Germany, I happened to be there over Christmas, which doesn’t happen too often, so I made the most of it. Between catching up with friends and family, I managed to squeeze in visits to Cologne, Berlin, Hamburg, and of course Munich. And honestly? Germany in winter is one of my absolute favorites. If you’re on the fence about visiting then, my answer is a solid yes.

Munich especially shines in winter. I’d even go as far as saying it might be my number one German destination during the colder months. The city already has such an authentic, traditional vibe with its palaces, old churches, mountains nearby, cobblestone streets, markets, and of course the famous beer halls. 

But when you add crisp air, fairy lights, and maybe even a dusting of snow then it all gets a more magical “winter wonderland” upgrade that just feels super magical.

If you’re planning a trip to Germany in winter, Munich is where I’d start. I’d also highly recommend combining it with day trips to Neuschwanstein Castle, Salzburg, and maybe even Vienna. Around Christmas, those places are absolutely magical too, and they’re all easy to reach from Munich.

Just keep in mind: Munich is close to the mountains, and winter gets seriously cold. I always make sure to pack more layers than I think I’ll need, and I book everything well in advance. Christmas season in Germany (and Austria) is very popular, so hotels and tickets sell out quickly.

2. Spring in Munich

Spring in Munich is honestly one of my favorite times to visit, mainly because I love milder temperatures. Ask me about almost any European city and I’ll probably tell you spring is my season of choice, the weather is just so much more comfortable for exploring.

I’m the kind of traveler who spends entire days on foot, wandering from one landmark to the next, grabbing snacks at markets, and just enjoying the atmosphere. What many people don’t expect is that German summers can get really hot, up to 40°C (104°F) some years. And while I love summer, I also basically melt into the cobblestones at those temperatures, which doesn’t exactly make me the most energetic tourist.

That’s why I think Munich in spring is ideal. The weather is pleasant, you can be out all day without overheating, and the city’s parks and gardens are starting to bloom, which makes everything feel extra alive. 

The only downside for me is that rain showers are pretty common. But honestly, that’s nothing a lightweight rain jacket can’t fix.

3. Munich in Summer

On my most recent summer trip to Munich, I honestly had the best time. Yes, it was hot (sometimes a little too hot), but with a bit of planning the heat actually worked in our favor. I’ve said before that I usually prefer milder weather because I love being out and about all day, but summer in Munich just required a different rhythm.

We started our mornings early, wandering through the old town and ticking off the main sights before the sun really cranked up and as a bonus, we beat most of the crowds. By midday, we switched gears completely: either sprawling out in the English Garden or grabbing a shady table in a beer garden with a cold drink in hand. Honestly, both felt like peak summer perfection. 

Then, once things cooled off again in the late afternoon, we’d head back out for more exploring before finishing the day on a rooftop with dinner, drinks, and a breeze.

So yes, Munich in summer is warm, but with a little tweaking to your schedule, it’s fantastic. I’d 10/10 recommend coming in the summer, you just need to embrace the slower, more laid-back pace (and never say no to a beer garden break).

4. Fall in Munich

Fall in Munich, just like in most German cities, isn’t necessarily my favorite time to visit. The weather usually doesn’t do the city any favors: chilly, rainy, often grey and overcast. I just don’t find wandering through cities as enjoyable in that kind of weather.

Around late October into early November, I’d personally rather head somewhere a bit more rural or scenic, like the Alps or the Black Forest, where at least you get that golden fall foliage to make up for the gloom.

That said, Munich in fall isn’t all bad because of course there’s Oktoberfest. Late September through the first week of October, the entire city transforms into one giant celebration of beer, food, and Bavarian culture. 

I haven’t made it to the real Oktoberfest yet (only to the knock-offs in other cities), but it’s high on my list. If Oktoberfest is the reason you’re coming, then fall in Munich is the time to visit. If not, I’d honestly save my trip for December and experience Munich at Christmas instead.

When to visit Munich for Oktoberfest

Of course, I can’t talk about the best time to visit Munich without mentioning Oktoberfest, the city’s biggest event of the year and one of the most famous festivals in the world. If Oktoberfest is on your bucket list (it’s still on mine!), then your trip obviously needs to be timed around it.

Oktoberfest usually starts in late September and runs until the first weekend in October, so despite the name, most of the festival actually happens in September. The exact dates shift slightly each year, but it always covers about two weeks of beer tents, parades, fairground rides, and a whole lot of lederhosen.

If your main reason for visiting Munich is Oktoberfest, then this is hands down the best time to come. Just keep in mind that it’s also Munich’s busiest (and priciest) season: hotels book out months in advance, and the crowds are no joke.

If you’re not coming specifically for the festival though, I’d suggest skipping these weeks and visiting Munich at another time of year. That way, you’ll have cheaper hotels, fewer tourists, and more of the city to yourself.

When to Visit Munich for Christmas Markets

One last thing I have to talk about, because it’s honestly the main reason I’d plan a winter trip to Germany is the Christmas markets. For me, Christmas in Munich is the highlight of visiting in winter. I probably wouldn’t bother coming in January or February, to be honest, because without the markets the city just loses that festive magic.

In Munich (and across Germany), Christmas markets usually run during the four weeks leading up to Christmas Day. Most open around November 28th, and a few even start a little earlier, mid-November. By December though, everything is in full swing: every market is open, the decorations are up, and the whole city sparkles.

If you’re planning your trip around the markets, I’d recommend visiting sometime within those four weeks before Christmas, this way, you won’t miss out on any of the atmosphere.

And if you want to plan your Christmas market hopping properly, I’ve put together a full guide on my favorite Munich markets (plus a few in Salzburg, Cologne, and Berlin if you’re combining cities).

FAQs About When to Visit Munich Germany

What is the best month to visit Munich?

That really depends on what you want from your trip. Personally, I think May is perfect for mild weather and exploring outdoors, while December is unbeatable if you’re coming for the Christmas markets.

Is Munich worth visiting?

Absolutely, 100%. Out of all the cities in Germany, I’d say Munich is the number one place I’d recommend for first-time visitors, especially if you’re after that classic “stereotypical Germany” experience with beer halls, palaces, and cobblestone streets.

What is the weather in Munich like?

Unpredictable, to put it mildly. Summers can be scorching hot or rainy. Winters can be snowy and freezing or rainy. Basically, no matter when I go, I always pack a rain jacket because the weather loves to keep you guessing.

Is Christmas in Munich worth it?

Definitely. Munich already has that traditional, old-world charm, and when you add Christmas markets, decorations, and a bit of snow into the mix, it feels like you’ve stepped straight into a fairytale.

Final Thoughts on the Best Time to Visit Munich

To wrap it up: Munich is one of those rare cities that’s worth visiting almost any time of year. I’ve been twice in spring/summer, when I visited the beer gardens, parks, and palaces, and I’ve also spent Christmas here and the Christmas markets were some of the most magical I’ve seen in Germany.

What I love most is how Munich feels so traditional and storybook-like compared to somewhere like Hamburg or Berlin, which have more of a modern vibe. Add in festive decorations, a huge sparkling tree in Marienplatz, and mugs of mulled wine, and you’ve basically got a Brothers Grimm fairytale brought to life.

Hopefully this little guide on the best time to visit Munich Germany helps you decide when to plan your own Munich trip, whether that’s for summer sunshine, Oktoberfest, or the Christmas markets.

Check Out My Other Munich Travel Guides

Is Munich Worth Visiting: My Honest Review

Best Time to Visit Munich: My Munich Season Guide

Things to Do in Munich: My Favorite Activities

Is Munich Expensive: My Munich Budget Guide

3 Days in Munich Germany: Munich 3 Day Itinerary

Food in Munich: A Munich Restaurants Guide

Where to Stay in Munich: My Favorite Areas & Hotels