If you’re planning a 3-day trip to Munich, you’re in for a treat! Munich is a perfect mix of old-world charm and modern attractions, offering a diverse range of experiences for travelers. From stunning architecture and art galleries to world-class dining and shopping, Munich has something to offer everyone.
Here’s a perfect itinerary to help you make the most of your trip, including some great restaurant recommendations!
Day 1: Explore Munich’s Historic Old Town
Begin your trip by exploring the historic Old Town of Munich. The attractions can be conveniently visited one after another in a perfect sequence. Here are the top attractions to visit:
Breakfast at Schneider Bräuhaus München
Start your first day with a traditional Bavarian breakfast at the Schneider Bräuhaus München, one of the oldest and most popular breweries in Munich. Of course, instead of that, you can also visit the famous Hofbräuhaus not far from there. All German clichés are served there and the program is very tourist-oriented, so you will almost exclusively meet tourists there. But if you prefer an authentic brewery, the Schneider Bräuhaus is the better choice in the city center. Ideally, you should finish your breakfast before 11 a.m. as the next highlight awaits you at Marienplatz.
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Marienplatz Glockenspiel tower
Head to Marienplatz, the city’s central square, where you can admire the impressive architecture of the New Town Hall and watch the famous Glockenspiel clock tower chime at 11 am. This iconic square is located in the heart of the city and is surrounded by beautiful architecture and historic landmarks.
Here are some of the top attractions to see at the Marienplatz:
- Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall) – This impressive Gothic building is home to the city government and offers stunning views of the city from its tower.
- Mariensäule (Mary’s Column) – This column is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and is a popular spot for taking photos.
- Glockenspiel – Located on the front of the Neues Rathaus, this famous clock tower features a 15-minute show with moving figures and music that is not to be missed.
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St. Peter’s Church Tower: Awesome view from above in the historic center
Don’t miss out on the chance to climb the tower of St. Peter’s Church! Known locally as “Alter Peter,” this historic church offers breathtaking views of the city from 56-meters.
The tower climb itself is an experience in its own right, with narrow staircases and plenty of stops to catch your breath. But once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Munich’s historic Old Town, including landmarks like the Frauenkirche and the Town Hall.
The best time to visit is on a clear day, so you can see the Alps in the distance. And be sure to bring your camera, as the 360° city view from the top is truly unforgettable.
Note that the tower climb is not recommended for those with mobility issues, as the staircases can be quite steep and narrow. However, if you’re up for the challenge, it’s a must-do activity for anyone visiting Munich. However, you should be also free from vertigo.
Secret tip! This attraction is often overlooked by tourists and is an absolute Instagram spot for your best Munich selfie.
Opening times (2023): See actual opening times on St. Peter website
- Summer (April – October): Daily | 9:00 am – 7:30 pm (last admission at 7:00 pm)
- Winter (November – March): Monday to Friday | 9:00 am – 6:30 pm (last admission at 6:00 pm); Saturday, Sunday, and public holidays | 9:00 am – 7:30 pm (last admission at 7:00 pm)
Entry fee (2023):
- Adults: 5,00 €
- Reduced admission: 3,00 €
- Students (6-18 years): 2,00 €
- Children under 6 years: free
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Experience Munich’s Vibrant Food Scene at Viktualienmarkt
Take a stroll through Viktualienmarkt, a lively open-air market where you can sample traditional Bavarian snacks, enjoy a beer in the small beergarden, shop for souvenirs, and soak up the local atmosphere.
Not far from the Viktualienmarkt, you can enjoy a great Italian espresso at Eataly. You can also find authentic Italian food and products of high quality there. Munich is home to many Italians, which is why it is often referred to as the northernmost city in Italy. If you’re already hungry at this point, you can go to the Hacker Pschorr Brewery located right next to Eataly, which offers traditional Bavarian cuisine and brews high-quality beer.
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Baroque Beauty: Discover the Ornate Asam Church in Munich
Looking for a hidden gem in Munich? Look no further than the Asamkirche, a stunning baroque church tucked away in a shopping alley just a short walk from Marienplatz. While it may be smaller than some of Munich’s more well-known churches, the Asamkirche is a true masterpiece of Bavarian rococo architecture.
Built in the 18th century by brothers and artists Cosmas Damian and Egid Quirin Asam, the church is an ornate display of intricate frescoes, sculptures, and stucco work. As you step inside, you’ll be transported to another world, surrounded by the stunning beauty and detail of the church’s interior.
Don’t forget to look up at the ceiling to see the dazzling frescoes painted by Cosmas Damian Asam himself. And be sure to take your time exploring the many details of the church, from the ornate pulpit to the golden altar.
Whether you’re a fan of baroque architecture, art, or simply looking for a unique and off-the-beaten-path attraction in Munich, the Asamkirche is not to be missed. Add it to your Munich itinerary for a truly unforgettable experience.
Opening times (2023):
Monday – Thursday & Sunday 8 am – 5:30 pm (closed vor visit during worship)
Saturday 12 pm 5:30 pm
Entry fee: free
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Discover the Beauty of Odeonsplatz & Hofgarten in Munich
The Odeonsplatz is a bustling square in the heart of Munich, surrounded by historic buildings such as the Theatinerkirche and the Feldherrnhalle. It’s a great place especially on a sunny day. From there, you can stroll through the picturesque Hofgarten, a lush green space with fountains, statues, and flower beds. It’s a great place to relax and people-watch, or to have a picnic on a sunny day. Don’t forget to bring your camera – the Odeonsplatz and Hofgarten are both incredibly photogenic and offer plenty of Instagram-worthy photo opportunities.
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Day 2: Get a Taste of Munich’s Art and Culture Scene
On your second day, explore Munich’s art and culture scene. Here are some top attractions to visit:
Deutsches Museum: Explore the World’s Largest Museum of Science and Technology
The German Museum in Munich is a must-visit for science and technology enthusiasts. With over 80,000 square meters of exhibition space and more than 28,000 exhibited objects, this is the largest science and technology museum in the world.
Starting from April 2023, visitors can enjoy the newly renovated and expanded exhibit on aerospace, which includes the history of aviation, space travel, and the latest research in these fields.
In addition, the museum features exhibits on a wide range of topics, from physics and energy to communication and music. Highlights include the planetarium, where visitors can experience a virtual tour of the universe, and the replica coal mine, where you can learn about the history of mining and experience the underground conditions.
If you have the time and energy, consider spending a full day at the museum to fully explore all the exhibits. Alternatively, prioritize your visit and plan to spend at least a few hours exploring your favorite topics. With so much to see and learn, the German Museum is sure to be a highlight of your Munich visit.
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Discover Bavarian Royalty: Explore the Residenz Museum
If you have some spare time left at the end of your day trip to Munich, a visit to the Residenz Museum is definitely worth considering. Located in the city center not far from the Odeonsplatz, it is one of the largest and most impressive palace complexes in Europe. With over 130 rooms to explore, you can immerse yourself in Bavarian history and culture, and admire the stunning art and architecture on display. Some highlights of the museum include the Antiquarium, the largest Renaissance hall north of the Alps, the magnificent Court Chapel, and the opulent Cuvilliés Theatre. Allow yourself at least a couple of hours to fully appreciate the beauty of this impressive palace. And if you want to make the most of your visit, consider taking a guided tour, which will provide you with fascinating insights into the history and significance of this cultural gem.
Opening times (2023): See the actual opening times on their website
- 1st April to 15th October: Daily 9am – 6pm (last admission at 5pm)
- 16th October to 31st March: Daily 10am – 5pm (last admission at 4pm)
Entry fee (2023):
- Residenzmuseum €9 regular / €8 reduced
- Treasury €9 regular / €8 reduced
- Combined ticket Residenzmuseum & Treasury €14 regular / €12 reduced
- Cuvilliés-Theater: €5 regular / €4 reduced
- Complete ticket Residenzmuseum & Treasury & Cuvilliés-Theater €17 regular / €14.50 reduced
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Escape to Nature: Discover Munich’s Green Oasis at the Englischer Garten
Take a break from the city’s hustle and bustle and head to the Englischer Garten, Munich’s largest public park, where you can relax and enjoy the beautiful greenery.
The English Garden is one of the largest urban parks in the world and a must-visit destination when in Munich. With over 78 kilometers of paths and trails, it offers something for everyone – from peaceful walks to lively sports activities.
Don’t miss the chance to watch surfers catch the waves on the Eisbach river, located in the south part of the park.
While exploring the park, make sure to visit the famous Chinese Tower. This 25-meter tall tower is a great spot to take in the views of the park and the city. It’s also home to a traditional beer garden where you can enjoy a refreshing beer (but I don’t recommend the food there because it’s very touristic and overprized). Also for a nostalgic ride, head over to the historic children’s carousel near the Chinese Tower.
If you’re looking for a more upscale dining experience, I recommend visiting Seehaus in Englischer Garten. Located on the shore of Kleinhesseloher See, this restaurant offers beautiful views and delicious cuisine. The terrace is perfect for enjoying a sunny day and sipping on a cold drink.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful walk or a lively picnic with friends, the English Garden is a must-visit destination in Munich if you never visited Munich before.
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Day 3: Nymphenburg Palace, Pinakothek der Moderne, Olympiapark, BMW-Welt
On the last day of your 3-day Munich adventure, you’ll explore some of the city’s cultural highlights and modern marvels.
Nymphenburg Palace: A Majestic Masterpiece in the Heart of Munich
Start your day by visiting the stunning Nymphenburg Palace, a Baroque-style palace surrounded by beautiful gardens. The palace was the summer residence of Bavarian rulers and is now a museum. Explore the opulent rooms and halls of the palace and immerse yourself in the history of Bavaria. If you decide to spend a full day in the beautiful Nymphenburg garden, don’t miss my comrehensive Nymphenburg blog-post.
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Bask in the Beauty of Nature: Discover Munich’s Botanical Garden
After your visit to the palace, head to the Botanical Garden, located nearby. This 52-hectare garden features over 14,000 species of plants from around the world, making it a paradise for nature lovers.
The garden is divided into different sections, including alpine plants, medicinal plants, and a greenhouse with tropical plants.
Entrance to the Botanical Garden costs €6 for adults, while children under the age of 18 can enter for free. The garden is open from 9am to 6pm from April to October and from 9am to 4pm from November to March.
Take a stroll through the garden and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. It’s a great way to spend a few hours, especially if you need a break from the busy city.
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Metzgerwirt Biergarten
After visiting Nymphenburg Palace and the Botanical Garden, head to Metzgerwirt Biergarten for a traditional Bavarian lunch. This cozy biergarten is located just a short walk from the palace, near the next Tram-station and offers a variety of delicious Bavarian dishes and refreshing drinks.
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Discover the Best of Munich at Olympiapark
From the Beergarden, head with the Tram rail to Olympiapark, the site of the 1972 Summer Olympics. The Olympiapark in Munich is a must-visit destination for travelers looking to experience the city’s sporting and cultural heritage. The park boasts an impressive array of attractions including the Olympic Tower, the Olympic Stadium, and the Olympic Swimming Hall. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the city from the top of the tower, catch a game or concert at the stadium, or take a dip in the swimming hall’s impressive pool.
For those looking to extend their stay at the park, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy. Take a walk around the park’s beautiful lake, rent a bike and explore the surrounding area, or simply relax and soak up the atmosphere.
And if you’re not interested in visiting the BMW Welt, which is located nearby, you can easily spend the rest of the day exploring everything the Olympiapark has to offer.
After exploring the Olympic Park, make your way up the hill towards the Olympiaberg short time before sunset. This hill offers a stunning panoramic view of the city, making it the perfect spot to watch the sunset and take in the beauty of Munich. You can either pack a picnic or grab a drink from one of the many nearby cafes and enjoy the view. It’s a great way to unwind and end your day in Munich on a high note with a romantic touch!
Admission to the park is free, but some attractions such as the tower and swimming hall have an admission fee. The park is open daily from 9am to 10pm, and tickets can be purchased on site or online in advance. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this iconic Munich landmark and all it has to offer.
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Bonus: Experience the Ultimate BMW Adventure in BMW Museum & BMW-World
Bonus for car enthusiasts: End your day not far located from Olympiapark at the BMW-World, a stunning architectural marvel and museum showcasing the history and evolution of BMW. The BMW Welt and the museum are an impressive experience that any car enthusiast should not miss while in Munich. It is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 am to 6:00 pm. The entry for the BMW-Welt itself is free. The entrance fee for the museum is €10 per adult, with discounts available for students, seniors, and children and tickets can be purchased online up to two weeks in advance here. Inside, you’ll find an array of BMW cars on display, along with interactive exhibits, simulators, and a guided tour. If you’re a car enthusiast make sure to add the BMW Welt to your Munich itinerary for a memorable visit.
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With these amazing cultural and modern highlights, your 3-day adventure in Munich will be unforgettable!
In conclusion, Munich is a city that truly has it all. From rich history and culture to stunning natural beauty and modern marvels, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking to relax and enjoy some beautiful scenery, Munich is the perfect destination for a three-day trip.
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