Itineraries for Your Trip to Munich
1 Day in Munich for First Timers
When I first walked the streets of Munich, I thought I could imagine a royal family living there—the wide streets, commanding buildings, and sprawling gardens seemed worthy of a fairytale. But as soon as I got away from the city center, I also found hip neighborhoods and a thriving local community that reminded me just how dynamic (and modern) the capital of Bavaria is.
Because Munich is such a complex place, it can be hard to get to know when you’re short on time. But follow this itinerary for one day in Munich, and you’ll get some of the best this city offers.
If you only have time for one thing, make it a stop by the Hofbräuhaus, one of the city’s oldest breweries.
Munich is known for its year-round cloudy weather and surprise rain showers, so come prepared.
Start the day by orienting yourself in the city, perhaps on a Segway tour, a hop-on hop-off bus tour, or a bike tour. Check out historic architecture such as the Munich Residence palace, the Old Town Hall, and the Cathedral of Our Blessed Lady (Frauenkirche); amble scenic squares such as Marienplatz and Odeonsplatz; and soak up the fresh air in the vast English Garden (Englischer Garten) park. Along the way, be sure to stop for a Munich ritual: coffee and cake (kaffee und kuchen). Don’t miss indulgent treats such as Bavaria’s favorite Prinzregententorte sponge, with chocolate buttercream and apricot jam.
In the afternoon, get a taste of Munich’s culture and learn about its time as the seat of the royal Wittelsbach family, who ruled over Bavaria for more than 700 years. You can walk to the Munich Residence in the city center, then enjoy a private tour of the palace-turned-museum. Wander its stately halls and 130-plus rooms while admiring the royal family’s art collection. While in the area, check out the Kunstareal museum quarter, a few blocks away, with 18 museums and galleries to visit.
In addition to its significant history, Munich is best known for its beer culture. So, cap off a busy day in Munich with a beer tour available to those ages 16 and up. You’ll likely start by visiting the Oktoberfest Museum to learn about this famous Bavarian tradition. Then, you'll visit some of the city's most famous breweries and beer gardens, sampling local food along the way.
