The 13 Best Things to Do in Munich Germany + 2 Things I’d Skip 2025

I honestly think Munich is one of the best cities to visit in Germany especially if it’s your first time in the country and or you’re flying in from overseas and want that classic, “stereotypical German” ( Bavarian) experience.

Even though I was born and raised in Germany, I still get ridiculously excited every time I come to Munich. The city is just packed with gorgeous architecture, impressive churches, charming old-town squares, and palaces galore. And don’t even get me started on the beer gardens, those are my personal weakness.

I’ve been to Munich a few times now, both in the summer and over Christmas, and I’ve ticked off pretty much all the major things to do from visiting Neuschwanstein Castle to exploring BMW World.

So, I figured it’s time to put together a proper guide for you. Whether you’re coming for Oktoberfest, Christmas markets, or planning a summer trip, here are my favorite activities in Munich plus two things I’d personally skip next time.

Things to Do in Munich – My Experience

I’ve been to Munich a few times now. Growing up in Germany, I first came here on a family trip, but more recently I’ve visited both in summer and just this past Christmas. I wouldn’t call myself a local at all, but after a couple of visits I definitely know my way around the city.

Whenever someone asks me where to go in Germany, Munich is always high on my list and for two big reasons.

First, the history and culture. Munich is just beautiful. I have spent days exploring the old town, the palaces, little cobblestone alleys and the massive churches. On top, seeing the people wearing traditional Bavarian clothes, and of course the beer halls and beer gardens serving giant beers with traditional food, it all feels so quintessentially “German.” 

I especially love this because where I grew up near Cologne, you don’t really see much of that stereotypical Bavarian vibe.

Second, there’s just so much to do. That’s always important for me when traveling, I need things to see, things to do, and to experience. In Munich itself, I could spend a couple of days wandering the old town, visiting Nymphenburg Palace, checking out the Christmas markets, or joining the Oktoberfest madness. And once I’ve done all that, Munich is the perfect base for day trips.

One of my absolute highlights was Neuschwanstein Castle, it’s straight out of a Disney movie (well, technically it was the inspiration for one). I also took a day trip to Salzburg, Austria, and honestly, I’d recommend that to anyone. If you’re coming to Munich, definitely add Salzburg to your list, it’s 100% worth it.

My Top Things to Do in Munich

1. Neuschwanstein Castle

One of my absolute highlights was definitely the day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle, which is absolutely stunning. You probably know it as the “Disney castle,” and that’s not just a nickname, Walt Disney actually used Neuschwanstein as the inspiration for the Sleeping Beauty Castle in Disneyland.

When we visited, we booked a bus tour with an English-speaking guide who was super passionate about the history of the castle. It was fascinating to learn that it was commissioned by King Ludwig II of Bavaria in the 19th century, originally as a personal retreat and homage to Richard Wagner, the composer he admired.

Even to this day, it remains one of my favorite experiences, just because it’s such an iconic landmark, not only in Germany but worldwide. The views, the architecture, and the story behind it all make it unforgettable.

If I would do it again, I would maybe opt for a rental car just so I could see more things around Munich but for the very first time booking a guided tour made totally sense.

Click Here: Day Trip to Neuschwanstein Castle

2. Marienplatz & New Town Hall

This is definitely one of the classics, and whenever I’m in Munich, it’s basically impossible to avoid. Marienplatz is the heart of the city, and the New Town Hall dominates the square with its stunning architecture.

It’s easily one of the most impressive town halls I’ve ever seen, and it looks incredible in both summer and winter. During the Christmas season, the market out front adds an extra magical touch.

I often try to stay close to Marienplatz, the closer, the better so I’m right in the city center and can easily explore on foot.

3. Nymphenburg Palace

In my opinion, Nymphenburg Palace is one of the best places to visit in Munich. I’ve been a few times, and it never fails to impress. Built in the 1600s, it was the summer residence of the Bavarian kings and remains absolutely stunning.

The palace itself is beautiful, but the gardens surrounding it are just as impressive. In summer, they’re perfect for a long stroll, and in winter, the snow-covered grounds make it look almost magical.

I also love that it’s right in Munich, no need for a long day trip. It’s only about 15 minutes from the old town by tram, which makes it a must-visit for anyone exploring the city.

4. Lunch at a Beer Garden

As a German born and raised, I naturally have a love for beer gardens and beer halls and Munich does both better than anywhere else.

I just love spending a summer day in a beer garden, sipping a cold beer and enjoying some hearty German food. It’s simple, but honestly one of my favorite things to do in Munich.

I personally really enjoy the classic Hofbräuhaus in Munich. Yes, it’s super touristy but so what? I’m a tourist! There are plenty of more “authentic” beer gardens in Munich, and of course, you can visit those too. But I wouldn’t skip the Hofbräuhaus, it’s iconic, beautiful, and part of the Munich experience. Sometimes, touristy spots are popular for a reason.

If you want something more local, I’d recommend Görreshof Wirtshaus or Augustiner-Keller. The latter is also very popular but has a lovely large beer garden, perfect for enjoying the Bavarian atmosphere.

5. Oktoberfest Munich

I’ve actually never been, so everything I can tell you about the Oktoberfest in Munich is basically just how much I really want to go, it’s been on my bucket list for years! Every time I plan it, I’m usually on the opposite side of the world around September and October, so it never works out, but I’m sure one day I’ll make it happen.

The Oktoberfest is probably the most famous festival in Germany and is known worldwide. People dress in traditional Bavarian outfits, and for two full weeks, it’s all about eating, drinking, and celebrating which sounds absolutely amazing to me.

If you’re planning to visit Munich during Oktoberfest, be aware that hotel prices skyrocket. Make sure you book your accommodation well in advance to avoid any headaches.

6. Viktualienmarkt

One of my personal favorite spots in Munich’s city center is the Viktualienmarkt. If you’re wondering what that is, it’s basically Munich’s biggest farmers market, right in the old town and surrounded by beautiful historic buildings. It’s just fantastic.

I love coming here any day of the week because wandering around and sampling everything is so much fun. The market is full of local vendors selling everything from flowers and handicrafts to cheeses, sausages, pickles, and all sorts of Bavarian delicacies.

Depending on the time I arrive, I’ll grab a coffee or a beer and just wander, trying little bits of everything along the way. It’s a delicious way to explore German food and culture and one of my absolute favorite places in Munich.

7. Day Trip to Salzburg

I’ve been to Salzburg a couple of times now, once for two weeks in the summer and then again over Christmas and both trips were absolute highlights. Salzburg is just ridiculously pretty: a fairytale town with a fortress perched on a hill, surrounded by mountains.

Getting there from Munich couldn’t be easier. We just hopped on the train, and within about two hours we were in Austria. It’s cheap, straightforward, and because both countries are in the EU, there’s no extra visa nonsense to worry about. It was the perfect day trip for us.

While in Salzburg, we toured the fortress, ate way too much good food, and (of course) did the Sound of Music tour, the one that every American seems to have on their bucket list. Around Christmas, Salzburg turns into an actual snow globe, with charming markets that feel even more magical than Munich’s. If you’ve got a few days in Munich, Salzburg is the day trip I’d recommend the most.

8. Munich Frauenkirche (Cathedral)

The Frauenkirche is one of Munich’s most iconic landmarks and you’ll spot its twin towers from all over the city. It’s right in the heart of the old town and you can wander inside for free, which is always a bonus.

If you want to take it up a notch, you can also climb the south tower for views over Munich. I haven’t done this myself yet (note to self for next trip), but apparently the view is fantastic on a clear day. 

9. Christmas Markets in Munich

Christmas markets are basically my love language, and Munich’s are some of the best I’ve been to. When I did my big Germany trip last winter, I managed to visit about 20 markets across the country. Out of all of them, Munich’s stood out for feeling the most cozy and authentic.

The main one at Marienplatz, right in front of the New Town Hall, is absolutely magical, especially when it’s lit up at night. But I also loved the smaller market in Haidhausen, which had more of a local, neighborhood vibe. It was quieter, more rustic, and exactly the kind of place where you can sip mulled wine without being elbowed every two seconds.

I know people rave about Cologne’s markets (and I loved them too), and Berlin’s were… fine (a bit too commercial in the city center for my taste). But honestly, Munich nailed it for me. If you’re visiting in December, don’t even think twice, Christmas in Munich is worth it and the Chritmas Markets are the best things to do in Munich in December.

10. English Garden & Eisbachwelle

In the summer, the English Garden is my go-to escape in Munich. Despite the fancy name, it’s basically the city’s version of Central Park, huge, leafy, and right in the middle of town. I love just wandering here with no plan.

Scattered throughout the park you’ll find little beer gardens, which are the perfect excuse to stop for a drink. I usually end up at the mini Hofbräuhaus, which is kinda my go to for a Bavarian lunch and a beer.

But the real star of the English Garden is the Eisbachwelle. It’s a man-made wave in the park’s river where surfers line up to take turns carving up the water. Yep, actual surfing in Munich. It’s super cool to watch, and no matter the weather there’s always someone out there.

11. Munich Residenz (Residenz Palace)

The Munich Residenz blew me away more than I expected. From the outside, it looks like a grand palace (which it is), but the inside is basically a gorgeous labyrinth of rooms, halls, and museums.

This used to be the royal palace of the Bavarian monarchs and it’s the largest city palace in Germany. You can wander through ridiculously ornate halls, golden ceilings, Renaissance frescoes, and rooms that make you wonder how anyone ever lived here without constantly bumping into priceless art.

On my first visit, I just strolled around the gardens outside which are free and already beautiful. But on my second trip, I did the full museum tour and it instantly became one of my favorite experiences in Munich. It’s one of those places where photos still don’t do it justice, but I’ll try to include some below anyway.

Click Here: Munich Residence Museum Tour

12. BMW Welt (BMW World)

I’m not a huge car person, I don’t know every model or dream about engines, but I can definitely appreciate a cool car when I see one. And honestly, no one does it better than BMW.

We went to BMW Welt as a family during our winter trip, and it was a blast. The building itself is futuristic and impressive, and inside you’ll find everything from classic BMWs to concept cars and motorcycles. There are even wild prototypes that look like they drove straight out of a sci-fi movie.

Even though I’m not car-obsessed, I found it super fun. My whole family enjoyed it, and I think it’s one of those spots that’s equally entertaining for adults, kids, or anyone who secretly loves pretending they’re test-driving a car they’ll never actually buy.

13. Day Trip to Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial

Visiting the Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial is not what I’d call a “fun” thing to do in Munich, but it is one of the most important. Dachau was the very first Nazi concentration camp, opened in 1933, and it became the model for all the others that followed. Today it’s a memorial site and museum, and I really believe everyone who visits Munich should take the time to go.

I went on a guided tour, and I’d highly recommend doing the same. Having someone explain the history and put the site into context made it so much more impactful than if I’d just wandered around on my own. You walk through the old barracks, the roll-call grounds, and the museum exhibitions, and it’s incredibly heavy and sobering, but also important.

It’s not an easy day trip by any means, but that’s exactly why it matters. It’s one of those experiences that stays with you long after you’ve left, and it gives you a deeper understanding of German history beyond beer gardens and castles.

Getting there is very straightforward: it’s only about 30 minutes from Munich by S-Bahn and bus, so you can easily visit in half a day. I’d just suggest allowing yourself some quiet time afterward, you probably won’t feel like rushing straight to Oktoberfest or a beer hall after this.

Click Here: Day Trip to Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial

2 Things I Would Skip in Munich

Olympic Park Munich

A year or so ago, I visited Munich during the summer and went to the Olympic Park. Don’t get me wrong, I had a nice time. The grounds are beautiful, and it’s cool to see all the facilities from the 1972 Olympics.

That said, if you only have 1–2 or 3 days in Munich, I’d probably skip it. If you have a whole week, go for it, but with limited time there are definitely other spots I’d prioritize.

Deutsches Museum

I feel the same way about the Deutsches Museum. It’s huge and interesting, but to me it didn’t feel particularly “Munich.” If I only had a weekend here, I’d rather spend my time at Oktoberfest, the Christmas markets, or take a day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle or Nymphenburg Palace. That said, it’s still worth a visit if you love museums, but it wouldn’t make my top ten Munich highlights.

FAQs About What to Do in Munich

What are unique things to do in Munich?

For me, the first things that come to mind are Oktoberfest and the incredible Neuschwanstein Castle. Both are iconic experiences that really capture the Bavarian vibe.

What are the best free things to do in Munich?

Some of my favorite moments in Munich have been just wandering around the city. The old town, including Marienplatz, the New Town Hall, Frauenkirche, and Nymphenburg Palace is entirely free to explore, and the architecture and streets are stunning.

What are the best things to do in Munich for kids?

This depends a bit on the kids, but from my experience (and from when I visited as a kid myself), BMW World is a hit. Seeing all the vintage cars, prototypes, and cool concept vehicles is super fun and engaging.

Is Munich worth visiting?

Absolutely. If I had to pick one city in Germany to recommend, Munich would be it. It’s beautiful, culturally rich, and packed with things to do and the best part is you can enjoy it any time of the year.

Final Thoughts on the Best Munich Activities

To wrap things up, Munich is probably my personal favorite German city to visit, especially for first-time visitors. If I put yourself in the shoes of, say, an American or Australian tourist, Munich delivers what most people imagine when they think of Germany: palaces, cobblestone streets, beer gardens, and even Neuschwanstein Castle.

But beyond the iconic spots, what I love most is just soaking in Munich itself. Wandering the streets, watching surfers at the Eisbachwelle, enjoying a beer garden, or visiting Christmas markets in winter, it’s all part of what makes the city so special for me.

I hope this guide to the best things to do in Munich helps you plan your next trip and gives you a good feel for what the city has to offer.

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

Christmas in Munich Germany: My Full Munich Christmas Guide

Check Out My Other Germany Travel Guides

Is Germany worth visiting: My Honest Review

Best Christmas Markets in Germany: My Top German Christmas Markets

Christmas in Europe Itinerary: Vienna to London in 2 Weeks