Travelers' pro tips for experiencing Munich
Jermaine M
Eating out might get expensive in Munich. Remember the secret of Bavarian beer gardens, though: You are allowed to bring your own food!
Elena Z
Munich is a typically efficient German city. Follow the orderliness, and you'll blend in well.
Irmie E
While in Munich, a visit to the Viktualienmarkt, the local Farmers Market, is a must. But wear comfortable shoes for all the walking you do as you visit the various booths.
Rambling Lawyer
The Munich Christkindlmarkt is one of the largest in the world, but actually there are about two dozen Christmas Markets in Munich and its surroundings alone.
A good source of information about what's coming up is muenchen.de.
Alex90028
Basically, we can not predict the weather. Last year it was hot in the spring and rather cool in the summer. Could be the opposite this year. Best advice is to go with layers: T-shirt and shorts would usually be fine, but have a jacket with you in case of cooler nights.
Margaret K
Getting around Munich is easy on public transportation. If you are going to be in the city several days, you can get a 3-day pass for use on all trains, subways, buses, and trams.
In the words of those who've been there before ...
Jermaine M
One of the first reasons that many visitors come to Munich is the world-famous Oktoberfest, but while Munich beers are definitely excellent, the city offers much more to discover — both in winter and in summer — including the charming historical center, the beautiful green areas, and many art galleries.
Margaret K
According to polls, Munich is the German city that most Germans would like to live in, if they could. It actually is composed of several smaller towns, and since no buildings taller than the tallest church steeple are allowed according to building code, the center feels like a town.
Jermaine M
One reason that more and more people move to Munich is the high quality of life you can enjoy here. Bavarians just know how to take good care of their environment! Take for example the beautiful urban parks where you can enjoy a variety of different sports, or just relax after work in clean, peaceful surroundings. Furthermore, Munich is only a 1-hour train ride away from the Alps and beautiful lake regions. In short, anybody who loves nature and outdoor activities is bound to love Munich!
Drachsi
Munich is a well known and popular destination for people from all over the world. With a friendly relaxed living style, and plenty of attractions for visitors of all ages, Munich has it all.
What is the best way to get there?
Flying:
Munich International Airport is located 18 miles (30 kilometers) northeast of Munich. The S1 and S8 S-Bahn trains depart for the city center every 20 minutes. The journey takes around 45 minutes.
Car:
Munich is well connected with other cities in Germany and Austria by the German autobahn network.
Train:
Munich Central Station (Hauptbahnhof) is conveniently located in the center of Munich and well connected to Munich's excellent public transport network.
Bus:
Long-distance buses from other European cities (notably the Balkans and Central Europe) provide an inexpensive way to travel to Europe. Buses arrive at Munich Central Bus Station.
Do I need a visa?
If you’re visiting Munich from overseas, visit the Federal Foreign Office for information
When is the best time to visit?
Many visitors come to visit to celebrate the city’s famous Oktoberfest but, if you want to avoid crowds, between March and May is an ideal time. Fall’s crowds have long gone and summer's peak season hasn't yet begun. Average high temperatures are the high 40s °F (10 C) in March and high 60s °F (19 C) in May.
Walking
Munich’s largely traffic-free city center is best explored on foot.
Public transit
The city’s dense public transportation system consists of suburban trains (S-Bahn), underground trains (U-Bahn), streetcars (Tram), and buses. There is only one ticket system, called MVV, which means you can use all modes of transportation with the same ticket. If you plan to use the system several times in one day, buying a day ticket can save you money
For more information, see here.
Bike
With its network of bike paths, Munich is a very cyclist-friendly city. The local dockless bike-sharing scheme is called Call-A-Bike.
For more information, see here
Taxi
Taxis are generally easy to find at ranks, train stations or on the street.
Ridesharing
Uber is available in Munich on your smartphone.
On the ground
What is the timezone?
Central European Standard Time
What are the voltage/plug types?
In Germany, the standard voltage is 230 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. The plug type is F and has two round parallel pins.
What is the currency?
The Euro
Are ATMs readily accessible?
Yes.
Are credit cards widely accepted?
Yes.
How much do I tip?
Restaurant
A tip of around 10 percent is expected.
Are there local customs I should know?
Drinking
The federal legal age for buying and drinking beer and wine is 16 years old. For other drinks, it is 18.
Cheers the right way
When you are toasting your companions with a drink, make eye contact and say a hearty “prost” as you clink glasses — clink with the bottom of your glass
Share table space
At many Munich restaurants, especially beer gardens, you are expected to share tables with other diners so don’t take up too much space.
Table manners
Wait for everyone in your party to get their food and say “Guten Appetit” before tucking in.
Be on time
Germans are punctual and showing up late is considered rude.
Public transit
Let passengers off before boarding. Offer your seat to elderly and pregnant people and to those with disabilities.
Walking
Walk to the right of the sidewalk and step off to the side of the sidewalk if you want to stop to check your phone, look up directions, or want to take in a view.
