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Munich Travel Guide: Hidden Gems, Foodie Finds, and Fairy-Tale Castles

Writer: Travel Queen
Travel Queen
Aug 31
7 min read
Munich travel guide

Munich has everything you could want from a European city break. An amazing culinary scene, historic beer halls, a lively cultural life, and one of the best Christmas markets in Europe – it’s where all your Bavarian dreams come true. While its hip younger sister, Berlin, may get more attention, Munich has a charm all its own.


Speaking of Christmas markets, last year I had the opportunity to visit the beautiful city during the holiday season. It was just as magical as I’d imagined – mouthwatering Christmas food, frosty steins of beer, and an atmosphere that you won’t find anywhere else. You can read more about my experience in this blog.


During my five-night stay in Munich, I had some time to really get to know the city (not just its fabulous Christmas markets or famous beer). My verdict? The German metropolis should be a must on every traveler’s bucket list! Get lost in its historic streets or head outside and discover the stunning mountain villages – the options are endless! If you’re planning a visit to the Bavarian city, here is my Munich travel guide.


Accommodation

When it comes to accommodation in Munich, you’ll be spoiled for choice. The city is home to some of the finest hotels in all of Germany. While there are many great luxurious hotels (and equally nice budget options), my tip is to book a boutique hotel to get a more unique experience.



During our trip, we stayed at Cortiina Hotel – a stylish boutique design hotel that’s located in the heart of Munich, just a short stroll away from the Viktualienmarkt, Marienplatz, and other famous places. Furthermore, the nearest U-Bahn/S-Bahn stop is just a few minutes away.


Here, guests can choose between 75 spacious rooms and suites. For my visit, I chose the Junior Suite and was quite impressed! With 55 m² of living space, you’ll have plenty of room, whether you’re traveling solo or with a friend. The room comes with a stunning natural-stone bathroom, a comfortable desk, and a cozy seating area. My favorite part, however, was the kitchenette, which really makes it feel like you’re ‘home away from home’.


Additional Amenities

  • The hotel features a small fitness center, so there’s no excuse to skip your workout here!

  • Furry friends are welcome, too (though allergy-free rooms are available on request).

  • Make sure to try the on-site restaurant and wine bar. The food and drinks here are delicious and will be perfect after a long day of exploring!

  • For breakfast, guests can enjoy an excellent buffet (with plenty of international and local options) or order à la carte.

  • Take advantage of the 24-hour reception, luggage storage, and concierge services. Overall, the team here is amazing and will gladly help with any questions you might have.


Munich Travel Guide: Things to See & Do


Join a Walking Tour

One of the best things about Munich is how walkable it is. Joining a walking tour is a fantastic way to learn about what makes the city so special, including its rich history. 


Which tour should you go with? There are many to choose from, but most of them take you to the same places, such as the Old Town, the Englischer Garten, and, of course, the famous Munich Hofbräuhaus Beer Hall. If you’re visiting during the holiday season, make sure to include a Christmas Market Food Tour in your itinerary. I talk more about it in my Munich Christmas Market guide.


Visit the Famous Castles

Munich castles

Looking for some real-life fairy tale magic? Bavaria is home to an array of stunning castles and palaces. And the best bit? They’re all within easy distance. During my trip, I joined a tour that took us to the UNESCO-listed castles of Neuschwanstein and Linderhof, as well as the charming village of Oberammergau. It was one of my favorite experiences of the trip!



King Ludwig II built Neuschwanstein, inspired by the mythical world of Richard Wagner’s operas. You might recognize it as the iconic Disney Sleeping Beauty Castle. Of course, Schloss Linderhof is no less impressive. The king created it as a place of retreat for himself, and you can really feel the love that’s been poured into it.


Tips to Make the Experience Better

  • When visiting Neuschwanstein Castle, bring cash with you. On-site, there’s a shuttle bus you can take to avoid a 40-minute walk. Horse carriages are available too, but they take too much time.

  • Remember it’s forbidden to take photos inside Linderhof Palace. If your trip is planned in the winter season, keep in mind you won’t be able to see the iconic gardens or fountains. Likewise, many shops are closed in the cold season.

  • For better views, sit on the right side of the bus.


Join the Dachau Memorial Tour


For the most part, travel is about exploring fun and beautiful places. But it’s also an opportunity to have meaningful experiences. 


You can’t really understand the Holocaust until you’ve seen a concentration camp. Visiting the Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial means coming face to face with one of the darkest times in human history. It’s not a pleasant way to spend a day on vacation, but it’s definitely a worthwhile one.


During our trip, we joined a guided tour from Munich, and I highly recommend you do so, as well. Having a guide who can explain the details of the brutal system of oppression during World War II and answer your questions is incredibly valuable.


Explore BMW Museum & BMW Welt

BMW museum

Even if you’re not a car enthusiast, visiting the BMW complex should be a part of your Munich itinerary. After all – there’s a reason more than three million visitors make the trip there every year (twice as many as Neuschwanstein Castle).



So, what’s so special about it? The BMW Museum chronicles more than a century of the iconic car brand's history. Here, you’ll see an impressive collection of over 120 vehicles, ranging from vintage motorcycles to Formula 1 racing cars. 


Next door, you’ll find the BMW Welt, which is equally impressive. The futuristic building is a showroom and brand-experience center, which is free to visit. It features several cafes and has its own restaurant and shop.


Eat Your Way Through Viktualienmarkt

Once a humble farmers’ market, Viktualienmarkt today is the ‘it’ destination for epicures and foodies. From locally roasted coffee to gooey French cheese, it’s where you’ll come across some of the yummiest food in Munich. In fact, there are around 100 stalls selling everything you could imagine (and more), including lovely gifts and souvenirs.


While it’s nearly impossible to list all the ‘must’ stops in Viktualienmarkt, here are some of my personal highlights:


  • Honighäusl: Are you a honey lover? Don’t miss this little stall, which offers a huge selection of locally produced honey right next to the beer garden.

  • Thoma Fromages et Vines: Stop here for homemade Obatzdn, a selection of French cheeses, and a glass of exquisite wine.

  • Café Nymphenburg Sekt: The place to go for a glass of sparkling wine paired with a slice of homemade cake.

  • Verrückte Eismacher: Have you ever tried currywurst ice cream? Now you have the chance to do it! This ‘crazy ice-cream maker’ serves quite unusual flavors, from Sachertorte to beer.

  • Münchner Suppenküche: Warm up with seasonal soups, hearty stews, and traditional meat broths.

  • Wörle Kaspar: For something a little more unusual, check out Munich's only horse butcher shop.

  • Fisch Witte: Enjoy fresh fish from rivers, lakes, and the sea.


Our Tip: Don’t rush it. Some of the best finds at Viktualienmarkt are the ones you stumble upon while wandering between the stalls.


Other Things To Do


Discover the Residenz Museum

If visiting Neuschwanstein and Linderhof is not enough for you, you can always include the Residenz Museum in your trip plans! The largest city palace in Germany is one of the best places to catch a glimpse into the lives of the Bavarian royals who once called it their home. 


Wander through the English Garden

English Garden in Munich


Wish to have a little break from sightseeing? The English Garden is the perfect place to slow down. One of the largest inner-city parks in the world, it’s home to beautiful meadows, the famous Eisbach Wave, the Chinese Tower, and plenty of peaceful walking paths.


See the Nymphenburg Palace

Those who love grand palaces and beautiful gardens won’t want to miss the Nymphenburg Palace. The former summer residence of the Bavarian royals is surrounded by an enormous park filled with beautiful gardens, canals, lakes, and charming little palaces.


Where to Eat and Drink


Viktualienmarkt: Wander through this lively open-air market to sample delicious local bites, artisanal snacks, and fresh market specialties.


Hofbräuhaus: Munich’s most iconic 16th-century beer hall is the perfect place to soak up the exciting atmosphere with giant pretzels, live oompah music, and frosty steins.


Ayinger am Platzl: Want to experience an authentic Bavarian meal? Their tender roast pork and savory veal patties are absolute must-tries.


Bar Centrale: Drop by this Italian spot for rich espresso or a chic aperitivo paired with effortless Milanese charm.


Weinhaus Schneider: Craving some comfort food? This restaurant near Marienplatz serves irresistible Swiss cheese and meat fondues.


Andechser am Dom: Stop at this historic tavern right by the cathedral to treat yourself to their legendary German wagyu beef burger.


Trattoria La Valle Pizzeria: Let’s be honest – sometimes Italian food is just what’s needed after a long day of exploring! Here, you’ll find delicious, freshly made pasta and authentic wood-fired pizzas.



Final Thoughts


Germany’s third-largest city may be known for its beer and sausages (hello, Oktoberfest!), but it offers much more than that. Great museums, beautiful parks, stunning architecture, an amazing food scene – once you come to Munich, you’ll quickly fall in love with it. Just beware, the Bavarian capital has a way of making you want to stay a little longer. 


The good news? With so many day-trip options nearby, you can easily turn a city break into a longer Bavarian adventure.



Ready to experience the best of Munich? From elegant palaces and beautiful gardens to bustling markets, cozy beer halls, and classic Bavarian flavors, this city has plenty of unforgettable experiences waiting around every corner. Let us help you plan the perfect Munich adventure!


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