Must-Do Munich: A 3-Day Bavarian Itinerary

Day 1

Breakfast

Deli Star Bagel & Coffee GmbH

@autumnmarie

This organic cafe had amazing food (the hummus bagel), a wide selection of teas, coffees, juices, and smoothies (try their chai), & a case of baked goods that looked absolutely divine and tasted better than I imagined. The atmosphere is cozy inside and outside; there is no shortage of seating on a warm day! The outdoor seating is covered, so even a rainy day can't stop Deli Star. The staff was so friendly and kind despite my extremely limited German, which made this place even better! This is definitely a 5-star start to the day, but if you decide to hit it later for lunch, I definitely recommend the lentil stew. There is a good selection of vegetarian and vegan options, even for the baked goods, but the cafe is not entirely plant-based, so carnivores don't need to fret!

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Activities: Before Lunch

English Garden

@autumnmarie

From breakfast, it's only a quick walk (10-15 minutes) or bus ride (10 minutes) to Englischer Garten, or the English Garden. This peaceful stretch of green space spans over 926 acres (375 hectares) and is a must-do in Munich. If you like walking, you could spend hours exploring, reading or picnicking under a tree, or watching the surfers. Yes, the surfers! Munich's English Garden is not only known for its sheer size but also for the people who surf the artificial waves of the Eisbach. And while you technically aren't allowed to swim in the river, I saw quite a few locals floating along the current, beer in hand... Other than the Eisbach surfers and typical park activities, there is also Monopteros, a replica of a Greek temple with a panoramic view, and the Chinese Tower, a pagoda/beer garden with Bavarian pride! (Read more about the Chinese Tower in the next activity listed.) Personally, I spent a few hours here walking around, watching the surfers, reading, and drinking some beer. I loved the proximity to such a large green space in the city. If your travel style is more city living, you may spend less time here, but I still think it's a must-do either way. NOTE: Depending on what time you're up and moving in the mornings, the beer garden may not be open yet. Currently, it opens at 11am during the week and 10am on the weekends.

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Chinese Tower

@autumnmarie

In the English Garden, the Chinese Tower is a landmark of Munich. If you're here in December, the pagoda hosts a traditional Christmas Market. Throughout the year, they have a beer garden with traditional Bavarian flavors. The beer garden may have live music, weather permitting. If you spend enough time in the English Garden to be hungry for lunch, this is a great place to find some local cuisine. All of their ingredients, both plants and animals, are from the surrounding area. However, since this is a touristy spot, there's definitely some price gouging, so budget travelers beware! My take is that sometimes, you pay for the atmosphere as well. And that's okay!

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Activities: After Lunch

Depending on where you are in the English Garden, walking distance to the next destinations could vary. Not to fret- the Sendlinger Tor stop on the U3 or the U6 metro will take you within a few minutes of the next location, Asamkirche.

**All prices as of October 2023**

Asamkirche

@autumnmarie

After lunch, it's time to check out some architecture! I have been to a lot of beautiful churches in my day, but this small, unassuming building is one of the most breathtaking on the inside. It's hard not to feel awestruck when you look up toward the artfully painted ceiling, angelic statues, and overwhelming sea of gold. Even unskilled photographers can capture a dazzling image of this baroque-style church. Definitely check it out.

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Marienplatz

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Just down a cute little stone street from Asamkirche is Marienplatz. Architecture nerds: Get ready to freak. This square is home to the Rathausturm, Neues Rathaus, Frauenkirche (Munchner Dom or Munich Cathedral, technically a couple minutes down the road), as well as multiple cafes, bakeries, and bars. Read more about each of these buildings in their individual tags.

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Rathausturm

@autumnmarie

Both the Old & the New Town Hall boast some attractive architecture in Marienplatz. The New Town Hall is the modern location for the city's government. The Rathausturm is the tower from which you get an amazing lookout (keep reading!). Guided tours will be a little more expensive, around 20 EUR per adult ticket, but are worth considering if history, architecture, and political culture interest you. For only 6.50 EUR/adult ticket, ride up the elevator to the top of the New Town Hall for some incredible views. At the top (85 meters/about 279 feet), experience a unique view of the city including multiple churches, the Old Town Hall, and, on a clear day, the Alps in the distance.

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Frauenkirche

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Another gorgeous church, the Munich Cathedral is more popularly referred to as Frauenkirche, or the Church of Our Lady. For only 7.50 EUR (adult ticket), the cathedral is definitely worth a visit. While it may be more white and less dazzling than the baroque Asamkirche, the Gothic architecture here is equally as stunning. Tour the cathedral and the crypt, see the impressive 16th-century clock, and step on the devil's footprint (follow the link to read about the legend).

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About a 20-minute walk or tram ride from Frauenkirche are many museums. Unfortunately, I did not get to visit all of them, but here are a few different ones to choose from, based on your interests.

NOTE: I do not recommend trying to do all of these in one afternoon, I simply want to provide options as museums can be very personal.

Pinakothek der Moderne

@autumnmarie

This modern art museum is actually four different museums in one building: graphics, art, design, and architecture! For only 10 EUR for adults and no fee for those under 18, this is a great choice for the modern art enthusiast. Plan a minimum of two hours for this museum, as it houses quite a few exhibits.

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Munich Museum of Egyptian Art

@autumnmarie

This museum showcases over 5000 years of Egyptian culture. While it is an archeological museum, art & architecture lovers will also be happy here. For only 7 EUR per adult ticket, this museum has an impressive collection. Check their website before visiting to see if there are any events or tours going on during your trip. Plan to spend around 2-3 hours here.

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Munich Residenz

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The Munich Residence is a palace that has been open to the public as a museum for over 100 years. According to the website, visitors can see through the time periods via "spatial works of art from the Renaissance, Baroque and Rococo, classicism and historicism". Also, multiple interior courtyards enhance the experience. Much of the art and artifacts have been left in place, creating authenticity that cannot be guaranteed everywhere. The treasury holds over 1200 pieces from the collections of Bavarian rulers. The Cuvilliés Theater is another breathtaking space. At least 3 hours is recommended for this museum if you plan on visiting the Residence, the Treasury, and the Theater. There are no guided tours, but they do offer a free audioguide (check the bottom of the page I linked!).

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Lenbachhaus

@autumnmarie

For only 10 EUR, this art museum offers 2+ hours worth of exhibitions. Their website offers 360 degree "tours" so you can decide if it's something that will interest you before you go. In the former home of portraitist Franz von Lenbach, you can find his works and other 19th-century contemporary art.

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NS-Dokumentationszentrum München

@autumnmarie

This museum dives into the history of the National Socialist regime. The best part? Free entry (and a free audio tour)! Not only does the museum showcase the history, but it also highlights the effects and consequences of National Socialism up to the present. Exhibitions change, so check out the website to see current and upcoming information! In order to not be rushed, plan at 3 hours to tour this museum.

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Dinner

Hofbräuhaus München

@autumnmarie

After viewing all of the museums and architecture, take a 20-minute walk or metro ride to dinner at Hofbräuhaus. Hofbräuhaus is a well-known Bavarian restaurant with 3 floors! Their website claims it is the "most famous tavern in the world". This place has many free seating options as well as reservations available for larger parties or events. Hofbräuhaus is a great way to get in the Bavarian spirit!

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Day 2

A Bavarian must-do is Eibsee, a beautiful lake situated on the German-Austrian border. For this day, I recommend packing a lunch/picnic, plenty of snacks, and plenty of water. I have included some restaurant suggestions in Eibsee, but they are pricier than options in the city.

It takes roughly 2-3 hours to get to Eibsee using public transportation. We used a combination of trains, buses, and taxis to get there. Use the Maps app in your phone or an app like Rome2Rio to figure out the fastest route for your day, as lines may be closed for construction or other reasons. The last bus we were supposed to take ended up not running, so we took a taxi the remainder of the way. This ended up being a happy accident; I recommend skipping the last bus and opting for the taxi service either way! The bus was supposed to take an hour and the taxi only took about 20 minutes. It was around 30 EUR one way, so it wasn't bad splitting it with a friend.

Breakfast

Coffee Fellows - Kaffee, Bagels, Frühstück

@autumnmarie

Coffee Fellows are all over the place, so go to whichever is closest to you, but they are great for a quick grab-and-go breakfast. If you love the cream cheese/lox combo as much as I do, definitely get their salmon bagel! I recommend this fast-food chain for today because getting to Eibsee can take a while, so you'll probably leave early. Grabbing some bagels and coffee for the road (or rather, train tracks) might be the more practical choice for today! If sitting down is more your style, I've included another suggestion!

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California Bean

@autumnmarie

Just a few minutes from the main station, California Bean is the perfect stop to start your day before hopping on the train to Eibsee. From pancakes to breakfast bowls to eggs, this cute little spot has something delicious for everyone!

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Activities

Eibsee

@autumnmarie

Eibsee is by far the most beautiful place I have been. It took us roughly 2 hours to get here using public transportation from Munich's main station, but it was 100% worth it. I recommend planning an entire day here. Visiting Eibsee is an activity for all times of the year. I visited in June, so we swam, hiked, and frolicked in the fields nearby. However, visiting in colder months is perfect for the winter sports gang, as the Wetterstein Mountains are right there. This particular lake is at the bottom of Zugspitze, the tallest peak in Germany. Make sure to come prepared with your cameras, as the photo ops here were unbeatable.

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Seilbahn Zugspitze

@autumnmarie

If you want to summit Zugspitze, hop on the cable car and ride about 10 minutes to the top for unbeatable views. Be warned: An adult ticket is over 60 EUR, so we deemed the Seilbahn as not worth it. If you are an avid hiker, there are a few different trails to the top for hikers of varying skill sets. However, summitting takes 8-10 hours and then you have to head back down, so they're typically split into two days.

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Eibsee-Hotel

@autumnmarie

Certainly not for budget travelers, but if you have some change to spend and want to stay in Eibsee itself, the Eibsee Hotel is absolutely gorgeous. Unfortunately, the restaurant is for guests only, but they do have other establishments I've included under "Dinner" where day guests are welcome!

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Dinner

seeRestaurant EIBSEE Pavillon

@autumnmarie

With traditional Bavarian meals as well as adapted options for vegetarians and vegans, the Eibsee Pavillion is a popular spot. The lakeside terrace offers a breathtaking, panoramic view (this is definitely another place where you pay for the atmosphere as well). Please note that the Pavillion is not open year-round. Be sure to check the website first. In the summer months, a gelateria is open right next to this restaurant, perfect for a hot day at the lake!

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Eibsee Alm

@autumnmarie

This rustic spot is also kid-friendly, as it offers a playground for the young ones. Outdoor seating with gorgeous scenery is available when the weather is nice. If it's chillier outside, you can warm up by the fireplace.

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For cheaper options, I recommend bringing PLENTY of snacks and grabbing dinner once you're back in Munich! Here are some suggestions:

Max Pett... Das vegane Restaurant

@autumnmarie

For my plant-based besties, Max Pett is a wonderful vegan restaurant with a continually updating menu. The indoor atmosphere is nice, but if weather and space permit, the outdoor area is surrounded by green and secluded from too much traffic.

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Steinheil 16

@autumnmarie

For meat lovers and those looking for more traditional Bavarian food, Steinheil 16 has you covered! And there are still some vegan options for the mixed groups. I did not get to try out this place for myself, but I was told it's a great spot for some Augustiner beer and delicious food!

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Day 3

Day 3 is none other than the Neuschwanstein Castle! Known as the one that inspired Disney's Cinderella Castle, this was on my bucket list for so long and it did NOT disappoint. Also included in today's itinerary is the Linderhof Palace.

Unfortunately, there is no direct route using public transport. I recommend booking a guided tour to guarantee a seat on a bus and a guide to answer any questions and tell you all the history and fun facts! If you'd prefer to be on your own schedule, you can also rent a car. If you choose to take public transport, make sure to check your Maps or another app such as Rome2Rio in order to get the fastest route possible.

If you decide to book a guided tour, I used Gray Line Sightseeing Day Tours and absolutely loved them. The bus was spacious and comfortable, our guide was incredible (shoutout to Sven), and, in addition to the castles, we stopped in Oberammergau for photos, snacks, and shopping.

Same as yesterday, I recommend bringing snacks no matter how you choose to get to the castles. There is a wonderful lunch stop recommended below, but if you're like me, you like to be prepared!

Breakfast

The suggestions from Day 2 are a good idea for today as well, as they are near the main station (and Coffee Fellows pop up every few hundred feet I swear). You can also take it to go for the ride which may be convenient, as this is a long day.

If you'd rather switch it up, here's another choice:

Cafe & Bäckerei Mauerer - Schillerstraße

@autumnmarie

This is also a grab and go spot, but I thought it was really nice! They have a display case with a lot of great options as well as a bagel menu and some realllyy good coffee. Be warned that it can get quite crowded! If you're headed here in the morning before catching a train or a bus, make sure to leave plenty of time. The plus side is that it is only a 5-minute walk to Munich Main Station!

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Activities

Linderhof Palace

@autumnmarie

Linderhof Palace is beautiful both inside and out. With gorgeous grounds and impressive architecture, get ready for some amazing photos! Guided tours are offered and, if you book the full day tour I recommend in the paragraph above, you can get palace tickets included. Inside the castle is gold, gold, and more gold. It's both dazzling and overwhelming. Linderhof is definitely a unique palace to visit; I couldn't take pictures inside, but check out some of my photos on the grounds above!

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Neuschwanstein Castle

@autumnmarie

Neuschwanstein Castle was a loooong-term bucket list item I finally got to check off in June of 2023. It did not disappoint. If you are unable or unwilling to walk uphill for about 20 minutes, make sure you are aware of the bus times to go up the hill. I walked up on a fairly warm day, but it was worth it for the lookout stops. It is highly highly recommended to purchase tickets for the castle ahead of time. You do not want to miss your ticket time, so leave plenty of time to get to the top whether you choose walking or a bus. In addition to touring the castle and looking out on the terrace, you can view the castle from the Marienbrücke (a bridge, check the next activity). All in all, this is 1000% worth a day trip from Munich. Sometimes, the very touristy spots are not worth the hype, but this one absolutely is (and I will go to the mat on that one). NOTE: Please be careful at the lookouts here. Do not go off the designated pathways and lookout spots. It can be very dangerous to wander around the mountain.

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Marienbrücke

@autumnmarie

This bridge can get very crowded and you may have to wait in line to get on, so don't go too close to your ticket time (or go afterward). No ticket is required for the bridge. It offers a truly amazing view of the castle that you won't get anywhere else! If you are afraid of heights and/or do not do well in crowds, maybe stick with the lookouts on the pathway! I don't love heights or crowds but I did okay (and I'm glad I did it). Use your own discretion, just be aware that it can be quite overwhelming.

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Hungry before the long trek up? There are plenty of restaurants, some fancier than others. Here is a fairly reasonably priced beer garden with traditional Bavarian food:

Schloss Bräustüberl Hohenschwangau

@autumnmarie

Great atmosphere, good food, superb beer. Fuel up before heading to the castle, or stop on your way back down! (Or both, because why not take advantage of access to German beer while you're in Bavaria?)

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There are quite a few options up and down the street, so look at some menus before deciding!

Dinner

I suggest having dinner back in Munich. When you leave Neuschwanstein Castle, it's still a bit early for dinner. Also, it is a very touristy spot. Here are two suggestions:

Augustiner Stammhaus

@autumnmarie

This is a very similar vibe to Hofbräuhaus, although perhaps a bit more scenic. Bavarian food and top-notch beer, what more can you ask for? If you're looking for something less traditional tonight, I've included another option!

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Zum Alten Markt

@autumnmarie

If you're still looking for German cuisine but perhaps a little less beer hall-esque, this is your spot. I was unable to get here myself, but heard wonderful things about it! Price-wise, it's middle of the line. They have vegetarian options as well as more traditional meals. Their website describes their menu as modern, authentic, AND traditional, so you know you're getting a great experience.

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Where to stay

Budget Options & Hostels

Wombat's City Hostel Munich Hauptbahnhof

@autumnmarie

Wombat's is a very popular hostel chain throughout Europe. This particular one is very social and, on the weekends, loud. If you are a solo traveler, night owl, and/or social butterfly, this is a great hostel for you! Staff was incredibly kind and helpful here. The shared spaces are quite nice and they do offer luggage storage. My laptop was too big for the locker before check in, so they put my name on it and kept it behind the counter! Breakfast is not included but a basic buffet is available for a small fee. Proximity to the main station is a plus (just a few minutes walk)! The area isn't the best Munich has to offer, but I never felt unsafe. Overall, this hostel was comfortable and clean, albeit loud on a Friday night. It is definitely catered to a younger crowd. If you are traveling as a family, I'd look at one of the other options.

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Euro Youth Hotel

@autumnmarie

This hostel is right by Wombats and significantly quieter. It is still geared toward youth and I was able to be social and meet a lot of people here, but also get to bed early if I wanted. Euro Youth Hostel is where I stayed my second time in Munich and I didn't really have any complaints. There is a laundry room, a bar, a fairly large common space, a breakfast buffet (for a small fee), and it's very close to the main station. The dorm rooms were spacious and clean. Bathrooms were located outside of the rooms, which I greatly prefer, and they were cleaned regularly. The staff was friendly and I had a great stay here.

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Hotel Augustin

@autumnmarie

Augustin Hotel is about a mile and a half (2.4 kilometers) outside of the city center, so it is a much quieter area if that's what you're looking for. I have not stayed here, but reviews say it's clean, friendly, and even compare it to a luxury spot. It seems to be a good hostel/hotel mix.

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Mid to High Price Hotels

NYX Hotel Munich

@autumnmarie

NYX Hotel Munich is a unique and contemporary accommodation with fairly affordable prices. Unfortunately, it's a bit far from the main station, but easily accessible by metro.

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Roomers Munich, Autograph Collection

@autumnmarie

Just down the street from the main station is Roomers, a tasteful, stylish, modern hotel with two restaurants (one has a beer garden), a bar, and a lounge. If you're looking for luxury, this is definitely a top contender for your stay.

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Beer Gardens

Augustiner-Keller

@autumnmarie

Augustiners are all over the place! This one was quite nice; huge with a wonderful atmosphere, even on a Sunday night! We met some wonderful locals here, ate pretzels and cheese, and drank large glasses of beer (check photos!).

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SEEHAUS im Englischen Garten

@autumnmarie

Looking for some scenery? This beer garden is right by the water in the English Garden. I've never had a bad beer in Bavaria, so you know it was up to par. (I didn't get any food here, but the reviews aren't very impressive on that front. If you're looking for a meal as well, try one of the other suggestions.) On a nice, warm evening, this is the ideal spot to end the day.

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Königlicher Hirschgarten Restaurant & Biergarten & take away

@autumnmarie

Known for being the largest beer garden in Bavaria (and I think the world?), Königlicher Hirschgarten is scenic, vibrant, and classic. Bring some friends and start drinking!

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