Munich, Germany

Munich, the capital of Bavaria, offers a perfect mix of rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning alpine landscapes. This itinerary will take you through the heart of Munich’s historic landmarks, famous beer gardens, and some of the most beautiful nearby attractions, giving you a taste of authentic Bavarian life.

Day 1: Historic Munich and Marienplatz

Morning:

• Start your adventure at Marienplatz, Munich’s central square. Admire the Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall) and watch the famous Glockenspiel performance at 11:00 AM.

• Climb the St. Peter’s Church Tower (Peterskirche) for panoramic views of Munich, including the Alps on a clear day.

• Visit the nearby Frauenkirche, Munich’s iconic cathedral with twin towers.

Afternoon:

• Head to Viktualienmarkt, a vibrant food market where you can sample local Bavarian delicacies. Enjoy a traditional lunch at one of the market’s outdoor beer gardens, trying Weißwurst and a Brezn.

• Visit the ornate Asamkirche, a baroque church located just a short walk from Marienplatz.

Evening:

• For dinner, visit the famous Hofbräuhaus, one of the oldest beer halls in Munich. Try Schweinshaxe (pork knuckle) and enjoy live Bavarian music with a refreshing beer.

  
  

Day 2: Art and Culture

Morning:

• Explore the Munich Residenz, the former royal palace of Bavarian monarchs. Marvel at the beautiful rooms, the Treasury, and the Cuvilliés Theatre.

• Visit the nearby Theatine Church, a stunning Baroque masterpiece with a vibrant yellow exterior.

Afternoon:

• Head to Munich’s Kunstareal (Art District). Choose between:

  • Alte Pinakothek (Old Masters),

  • Neue Pinakothek (19th-century art),

  • or Pinakothek der Moderne (modern and contemporary art).

• Enjoy a light lunch at a café nearby, such as Café Frischhut for some Bavarian doughnuts.

Evening:

• Walk through the serene Hofgarten before heading to Schneider Bräuhaus for dinner, where you can try Weissbier (wheat beer) and traditional Bavarian fare.

  
  

Day 3: Nymphenburg Palace and BMW World

Morning:

• Visit Nymphenburg Palace, the former summer residence of Bavarian royalty. Wander through the beautiful baroque gardens and visit the hunting lodge Amalienburg.

Afternoon:

• Head to Olympiapark, built for the 1972 Olympics, where you can visit the Olympic Tower or take a guided tour of the Olympic Stadium.

• Visit BMW Welt and the BMW Museum nearby to learn about the history of this iconic car brand.

Evening:

• Enjoy dinner at one of Munich’s beer gardens like Augustiner Keller, or explore the restaurants in the Maxvorstadt neighborhood.

  
  

Day 4: Day Trip to Neuschwanstein Castle or Dachau

Option 1: Neuschwanstein Castle

• Morning: Take a day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle, a fairytale-like structure that inspired Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle. It’s a 2-hour train ride from Munich.

• Afternoon: Explore the castle and enjoy the stunning alpine scenery, or visit nearby Hohenschwangau Castle.

• Evening: Return to Munich and dine at Zum Dürnbräu, a cozy Bavarian tavern.

Option 2: Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial

• Morning: Visit the Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial, a moving and historical site about 20 minutes from Munich.

• Afternoon: Return to Munich and explore the artsy Schwabing district for lunch.

• Evening: Enjoy a traditional dinner at Bratwurstherzl, known for its sausages and Bavarian classics.

  
  

Day 5: English Garden and River Surfing

Morning:

• Spend your morning in the English Garden, one of the largest urban parks in the world. Enjoy a walk, visit the Chinese Tower beer garden, or watch the surfers at the Eisbach Wave.

Afternoon:

• Explore the Deutsches Museum, a fantastic museum dedicated to science and technology, or go shopping along Kaufingerstraße and Sendlinger Straße.

Evening:

• End your day at Weisses Bräuhaus, savoring a final Bavarian meal and enjoying Munich’s lively beer culture.

  
  

Tips for Visiting Munich:

• Public Transport: Munich has excellent public transportation. Consider purchasing a Munich CityTourCard for unlimited access to public transport and discounts at attractions.

• Best Time to Visit: Visit in summer (June-August) for outdoor activities, or late September for Oktoberfest.

• Language: Most people speak English, but learning a few basic German phrases can enhance your experience.