Are you searching for the best Munich itinerary to make the most of your trip? Then you’re in the right place.
Planning 2 days in Munich can feel overwhelming with so many historic landmarks, beer gardens, and cultural gems, but I’ve put together this clear guide that shows you exactly what to see in Munich in 2 days without missing the highlights.
Munich, located in Bavaria and known as Germany’s third-largest city, is busy yet surprisingly walkable.
That’s one of the things I loved most when I visited. Strolling from Marienplatz to the English Garden without needing much transport. In this itinerary, I’ll share the main sights you can easily explore on foot, plus tips that made my own trip more enjoyable.
Keep reading and you’ll discover why Munich is absolutely worth visiting, what attractions deserve a spot on your list, and how to fit everything into just two days. By the end, you’ll be ready to explore Bavaria’s capital with confidence, map in hand, and no stress about what to prioritise.
Is Munich worth visiting?
Munich is well worth a spot on your travel list!
The city combines centuries of history with a lively cultural scene, stunning architecture, and of course, its world-famous beer gardens. Whether you’re drawn to grand squares, fascinating museums, or day trips into the Bavarian countryside, Munich has something for everyone.
If you’re short on time, this Munich travel itinerary can help you focus on the highlights while still capturing the spirit of the city. From Marienplatz to the English Garden, you’ll quickly see why so many travelers fall in love with Munich.
What is the best time of the year to visit Munich?
The best time to visit Munich is during spring and summer (May to October) as the city is full of life at that time. In fact, if you visit in September/October, you can even take part in one of the world’s best-known events – Oktoberfest.
However, if you’re into snow sports, Munich is also a great choice in winter since several ski resorts are just a short trip away.
When I visited in January, I focused more on the city’s cultural side instead of skiing.
Plus, if you’re planning a trip in the colder months, make sure to check out my guide on what to wear in cold destinations. It’ll help you pack smart and stay comfortable.
How many days in Munich?
Two days are enough to visit Munich for first-timers.
In my case, I even managed to visit the former Dachau concentration camp on the second day. 2 days is really the ideal duration to visit the main points of interest in the centre of Munich.
However, if you enjoy slow travel, consider adding a few extra days to your trip. Munich has plenty to see, and it’s also the perfect base for exploring nearby attractions. One of the most popular options is a day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle, which adds even more magic to your visit.
How to get to Munich?
Munich’s main airport is Franz Josef Strauß Airport, one of the busiest in Germany with direct connections to many European hubs such as Lisbon, London, Paris, Rome, and Zurich, as well as several long-haul destinations.
Alternatively, you can also fly into Memmingen Airport, which is smaller and less central but still a popular choice thanks to low-cost airlines.
How to get from Munich airport to the city centre?
If you land at Franz Josef Strauß airport, there are a few options available to the city centre:
- S-Bahn (lines S1 and S8): trips every 10 minutes and takes about 40 minutes to reach the city centre. The ticket costs about 14€.
- Lufthansa Express Bus: available to all passengers (even if you do not fly Lufthansa) and departs every 20 minutes, taking around 45 minutes. The ticket costs 12€ one way or 19.3€ both ways.
- Flixbus bus: lower frequency, but cheaper prices
However, if your flight is to Memmingen, the options are different:
- Train: The journey takes at least 1 hour and prices start at 25€. This service is offered by some companies, such as DB, Swiss Railways and ÖBB EuroCity
- Flixbus bus: journey takes about 1h 20 minutes and prices start at only 7€. The frequency throughout the day is quite low.
🚐 If you prefer a smooth arrival without having to figure out transport on the spot, booking a transfer in advance is a great option.
I recommend Kiwitaxi since you get a fixed price upfront and a driver waiting for you at the airport, which makes things much easier after a long flight or a late arrival.
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Accommodation in Munich
Although I didn’t stay overnight during my visit to Munich, the city offers a wide range of accommodation options. As you’d expect from a major German city, prices can be a bit on the higher side, but you’ll still find choices to suit every budget.
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Activities & tours in Munich
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Munich 2 day Itinerary Map
To help you plan what to do in Munich for 2 days, I’ve put together a handy map with all the main sights and stops from this itinerary. It makes it easier to visualise the route and organise your time without missing the highlights.
📌HOW TO USE THE MAP: Click on the top left corner to access the various layers of the map. You can select the layers you’re interested in and also find out more about each point of interest by clicking on it in the left-hand sidebar or on the pin on the map. Add the map to your Google Maps by clicking on the star next to the title. To access the map, simply go to Google Maps ‘Saved’ and click on ‘Maps’!
Best things to include in your Munich itinerary
If you’re planning to see Munich in 2 days, you’ll want to focus on the city’s highlights without feeling rushed. Below, I’ve listed the best places to include in your Munich itinerary so you can make the most of your time.
» Marienplatz
A trip to Munich wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Marienplatz. Located in the heart of the historic center, it’s the city’s main landmark and one of its most popular spots for visitors.
This is the main square of the city since 1158 and, in the past, several fresh produce markets were held here. Nowadays, there is a Christmas market during December.
The name of the square comes from the Marian column, which stands in the centre of the square.
Here you can also find some of the city’s most emblematic and imposing buildings.
This is the case of the old and the new Munich City Halls (or Rathaus in German). In 1874, the Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus) gave place to the New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus) – this one in a totally different style.
You can take advantage of the New Town Hall for incredible views over the city by climbing to its top.
At certain times of the day (11h, 12h, and also at 17h/21h in summer), you will find many tourists looking at the building’s facade. They are most likely admiring the Glockenspiel carillon clock, inspired by the tournaments that once existed in this square.
Also at Marienplatz and next to the entrance to the New City Hall, you can observe the Fischbrunnen fountain, which is one of the main meeting points in the city.
🎫 Join a walking tour of Munich to discover the city’s history, hidden corners, and main landmarks with a local guide.
» Viktualienmarkt
The old market on Marienplatz was moved to a place right next door in what is now called Viktualienmarkt. Here you will find everything from fresh produce to dried flowers to decorate your house.
The market is open from Monday to Saturday all day long. Don’t miss the maypole in the centre of the market, with figures representing the various arts and crafts of this area of Munich.
🎫 Taste your way through local specialties on a Viktualienmarkt food tour in Munich, a delicious way to explore the city’s famous market.
» Max-Joseph-Platz
Max-Joseph-Platz is another square right in the centre of the city which, although less known, is worth visiting. Here you can enjoy the buildings’ beautiful facades or watch a show in the National Theatre, or even visit the beautiful interior of the Munich Residence.
» Hofgarten
Right next to Max-Joseph-Platz, we have one of the most popular gardens in the city – Hofgarten. In this space, while taking a pleasant walk, you can enjoy the Diana Temple or the Bavarian Staatskanzlei – a government building of the Bavarian region.
» English Garden
The English Garden (Englischer Garten in German) is probably the best-known garden in the city, and where hundreds of people usually gather during the warmest months. The park is huge, and it is impossible to get to know it all.
In any case, right at the park entrance, do not miss the famous Eisbachwelle artificial wave. It sounds strange, but it’s really true… this is one of the most random but also most famous points of interest in Munich.
» Olympic Park
At around 300 hectares, the Olympic Park is also another thing that is rarely missing on any Munich itinerary. Built in 1972 for the Olympic Games, it currently has a stadium, an ice rink, a swimming pool, and an athletics track, among others.
» Churches of Munich
Beyond its parks, Munich is also known for its impressive churches. The most iconic is the Frauenkirche, the city’s largest church and a striking landmark you’ll notice right away.
To protect its presence on the skyline, Munich even decided that no building taller than 100 meters could be constructed nearby.
In a completely different style, there is also the Theatinerkirche Church on the unmissable Odeonsplatz. You should also visit St. Peter’s Church, as it is the oldest church in town. If you climb to its top, you will enjoy incredible views over the city.
Not to miss also the church of St. Michael, or the baroque style church, Asamkirche.
Moreover, a little further away from the centre, you find St. Luke’s church – the largest Protestant church in Munich.
» Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site
Although slightly away from the centre of Munich (about 30 minutes by bus), this is an interesting point to add to your visit to Munich. Despite the sad history of this place, it is important to know places like this.
The Dachau Concentration Camp was created in March 1933 for political prisoners, and this camp served as a model for other concentration camps.
200.000 people from all over Europe were imprisoned for 12 years in this camp and its subsidiary camps, resulting in the deaths of 41.500 people.
🎫 If you prefer a more in-depth visit, consider a guided tour to the Dachau Memorial Site from Munich, which includes transport by bus and train.
📝 USEFUL INFORMATION: The Memorial is open all year round from 9 am to 5 pm and admission is free.
» Museums in Munich
To finish this list of places to visit in Munich, I’ll leave you with some suggestions of museums in the city. Although I haven’t visited any, these may interest you and I decided to include them in the list as well:
- Deutsches Museum: the world’s largest museum of science and technology
- BMW Museum: the museum building alone is well worth a visit, but here you can learn more about the history of BMW
- Pinakotheken: one of the city’s most famous art museums
- Residenzmuseum: to admire the beautiful interiors of this former royal residence
How to organize your Munich 2 day itinerary
If you’re planning to visit Munich in 2 days, it’s important to organise your time wisely. With so many landmarks and attractions close to each other, a bit of planning will help you see the highlights without feeling rushed.
Day 1 in Munich
Morning
- Marienplatz – Start in Munich’s historic heart, see the New Town Hall and watch the Glockenspiel show.
- St. Peter’s Church – Climb the tower for some of the best views of the city.
- Viktualienmarkt – Wander the stalls and maybe grab a snack or early lunch.
Afternoon
- Max-Joseph-Platz – Admire the square, the National Theatre, and the Munich Residence.
- Residenzmuseum – Explore the stunning interiors of this former royal palace.
- Hofgarten – Relax with a stroll through the garden before heading to your next stop.
Evening
- English Garden – Spend the evening in one of the world’s largest city parks. Don’t miss the Eisbachwelle surfers, and enjoy a beer garden if the weather is nice.
Day 2 in Munich
Morning
- Frauenkirche – Visit Munich’s most iconic church and admire its two towers.
- Theatinerkirche & Odeonsplatz – Another landmark square with striking architecture.
- Asamkirche – A small but ornate baroque church worth a quick stop.
Afternoon
- Olympic Park – Explore the vast park built for the 1972 Games, with plenty of activities and great views from the Olympic Tower if you’d like.
- St. Luke’s Church – A little outside the centre but worth visiting for its unique Protestant design.
Optional Alternative (instead of afternoon in the city)
- Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site – A sobering but important site about 30 minutes from Munich.
Evening
- Return to the centre for dinner—try traditional Bavarian food and enjoy Munich’s lively beer halls or restaurants.
Restaurants in Munich
Munich is not only about history and landmarks. It’s also a city with a rich food scene.
From traditional Bavarian dishes to international flavors, you’ll find plenty of restaurants in Munich to satisfy every taste and budget.
- L’Osteria: a very nice space that serves very tasty and giant pizzas!
- The Hutong Club: Asian restaurant with a friendly vibe and truly delicious dishes
- Cotidiano Promenadeplatz: for a more urban and delicious breakfast or brunch
- Haxnbauer: the only restaurant with typical food on this visit. Although a bit touristy, I recommend some of the typical dishes: Käsespätzle and Schweinshaxe.
🎫 Experience Bavarian flavors on a Munich Old Town food tour, with 10 tastings that include local beer, pretzels, and other regional specialties.
Final thoughts on visiting Munich
Planning the perfect Munich itinerary doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
With just two days, you can cover the city’s highlights, soak up its history, and still enjoy its lively culture. From Marienplatz to the English Garden, and even a day trip beyond the city, there are plenty of places to visit in Munich in 2 days that will make your trip unforgettable.
Have you already visited Munich, or are you planning your first trip soon? Drop your thoughts and questions in the comments.
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