More about: Things to do in Munich in 2 Days
Munich is renowned for its rich history, its role as the heart of Bavarian culture and its impressive architecture. Although the city has so much to offer, you can enjoy its main attractions in just two days if you follow this well-planned itinerary. The route takes you from the city centre outwards to make the most of your time and transport.
Day 1: Munich’s historic centre, the Hofbräuhaus and the English Garden
Take a tour of Munich’s historic centre
If you book a guided tour of Munich, you’ll be able to explore several of the Old Town’s most iconic sights with a professional guide. The tour lasts around two hours and costs approximately €22. You can explore on your own, though you’ll miss out on the historical insights that enrich the experience.
Head to Karlsplatz
The tour usually starts at Karlsplatz, where the imposing Karlstor arch marks the entrance to the city centre. It’s a square steeped in history and a key part of everyday life in Munich.
Marvel at the Frauenkirche
Just a few minutes’ walk from Karlsplatz lies Munich’s Cathedral of Our Lady, one of the city’s most important churches. It stands out for its capacity (20,000 people) and its towers, which no other building in the city centre can surpass in height.
Head to Marienplatz and enjoy the Glockenspiel carillon
At Marienplatz you’ll see the famous tower of the Neues Rathaus, home to the Glockenspiel carillon. The clock’s mechanical figures dance to the rhythm of the music three times a day: at 11 am, 12 noon and 5 pm.
Don’t miss the Viktualienmarkt
This open-air market is the perfect place to try a Bavarian breakfast such as pretzels with obatzda, a traditional creamy cheese, accompanied by a beer in one of its beer gardens.
Visit St Peter’s Church
Next to the market stands St Peter’s Church, the oldest in Munich. From its 91-metre tower, you can enjoy a spectacular panoramic view.
Admire the Wittelsbach Royal Residence
On Residenzstraße, you can visit the Wittelsbach Residence, the royal seat for centuries. Highlights include the Antiquarian’s Hall, a gallery featuring sculptures and frescoes. Admission costs €13, and a full tour can take over two hours.
Delve into the history of Odeonsplatz
This square was the scene of the ‘Beer Hall Putsch’, a failed coup attempt by Hitler in 1923. If you’d like to explore the subject in more depth, you can book a tour of the Third Reich.
Enjoy a beer at the Hofbräuhaus
At 12.45 pm, head to the Hofbrauhaus brewery, which has been open since the 16th century. Order a radler if you don’t want to get too tipsy, and enjoy it with weisswurst, the traditional white sausage.
Dinner in the English Park
This huge park features attractions such as a Japanese tea house, a Greek portico and a Chinese tower with a beer garden. The atmosphere is perfect for rounding off the day with an al fresco dinner.
Experience the nightlife at Feierbanane
In the evening, head to Feierbanane, a bar district between Brienner and Blumen streets. If you’re looking for a modern club, visit the Blitz Music Club, open until the early hours.
Day 2: Visit Dachau, Nymphenburg Palace and the Olympic Park
Take a tour of the Dachau concentration camp
Start the day with a trip to the Dachau concentration camp – a moving and essential experience. It’s best to book a guided tour. The guided tour lasts between 3 and 5 hours.
Explore Nymphenburg Palace
After returning to Munich and having lunch at the Wirtshaus Rechthaler Hof, take the sightseeing bus to Nymphenburg Palace. Don’t miss the Great Hall, the Gallery of Beauties and the Carriage Museum.
Visit the Alte Pinakothek
This art gallery houses works by masters such as da Vinci, Dürer, Rubens and Goya. If you prefer contemporary art, head to the Pinakothek der Moderne, right opposite.
Dinner at the Olympic Park
Round off the day at the Olympic Park, with attractions such as the aquarium, an ice rink and the 291-metre Olympic Tower. Have dinner in its beer garden and enjoy the park illuminated at night.