Munich is a city that effortlessly combines history, modernity, and iconic Bavarian traditions. With a rich history spanning over 1,000 years, it perfectly balances deep-rooted traditions with cutting-edge technology. As Bavaria’s capital, Munich offers an incredible array of activities, from exploring centuries-old landmarks to diving into its modern, vibrant culture.
While spending an entire month here could never truly exhaust all the city has to offer, a three-day weekend is ideal for experiencing the top highlights. This gives you enough time to see the must-see attractions and, perhaps, uncover a few hidden gems that add a unique twist to the city’s well-known charm.
Whether you’re in town for the food, the culture, or the beer, this vibrant city has something for everyone. Here’s our comprehensive guide to spending a weekend in Munich;
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Best Time to Visit Munich
The best time to visit Munich is typically during the spring months of March to May. During this window, the city enjoys mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and fewer tourists. Spring also offers the chance to enjoy less-subscribed local events like the Starkbierfest (another lively beer festival).
Summer (June to August) brings warm weather, making it ideal for enjoying Munich’s famous beer gardens. However, it can get crowded in most parts of the city, especially with events like the Tollwood Summer Festival taking place.
Autumn (September to November) is another popular time, particularly for those who want to experience the world-renowned Oktoberfest (typically in late September or early October). However, the festival attracts large crowds, and the weather can start to cool.
Winter (December to February) offers a festive charm with Christmas markets and a cozy atmosphere. However, the temperatures can drop significantly, and the days are shorter, making outdoor activities a bit more challenging. Each season has its own unique appeal, depending on what kind of experience visitors are looking for.
Best Things to Do in Munich
Check Out Viktualienmarkt Food Market
Dating back over 200 years, Viktualienmarkt is a must-visit open-air food market in Munich’s historic center. With around 100 stalls open Monday through Saturday, this market is a feast for the senses. Wander through barrels filled with pickles, discover cheeses from across Europe, and savor freshly roasted local coffee.
The market has also evolved to include newer, trendy offerings like the FIRST8 Kombucha stand and the latest branch of the Munich-based Coucou Food Market deli. During the winter months, Viktualienmarkt transforms into the enchanting Alpenwahn Christmas market.
Here, you’ll find festive carols, handmade cards, gifts, and generous servings of glühwein. Whether you’re looking to snack on regional specialties or explore international flavors, Viktualienmarkt is the perfect place to indulge—come hungry and ready to explore!
Surf on Eisbach
Surfing in a landlocked city like Munich may seem unexpected, but there is a fun workaround that you can’t miss out on. The past few years, a man-made wave on the city’s Eisbach river, has become a hotspot for surfing enthusiasts. This cold-water sport requires specialized boards and skills to master the Eisbach wave.
That’s because the river’s concrete break creates a fast-moving wave that surfers must catch instantly—there’s no paddling like in ocean surfing. The wave was initially banned but has since become a key attraction, drawing professional and semi-professional surfers in wetsuits, who ride it all year round.
The atmosphere can get quirky in the summer, with occasional surfers choosing to take on the wave completely naked. But you can choose to completely ignore that and not let it ruin the experience. If you want to ride a modern wave on your weekend getaway, Eisbach is the place to go.
Go Museum Hopping on Sunday
If you love a slice of history but dread paying a premium then add museums to your weekend itinerary. On Sundays, Munich offers an excellent opportunity for museum lovers to explore its rich cultural scene at a fraction of the usual cost. Many museums reduce their admission fee to just one euro.
This includes iconic venues like the Pinakotheken, the Bavarian National Museum, the Egyptian Museum, and the Museum of Man and Nature. For those looking to maximize their museum experience, there are other money-saving opportunities to consider, such as free access to Haus der Kunst on the last Friday.
For foodies, many of these cultural gems are located in the vibrant Maxvorstadt district, known for its close proximity to excellent cafes and restaurants. After a museum visit, a stop at nearby Türkenstraße or Schellingstraße offers a perfect chance to recharge with a coffee or a leisurely lunch.
Veer into the Bavarian Food Scene
Munich, often referred to as the beer capital of the world, offers an unforgettable experience for food and drink enthusiasts. A true Bavarian experience would be incomplete without a visit to its iconic beer halls, local eateries, and historic breweries. Here, beer isn’t just a drink—it’s a way of life, even for breakfast.
A must-try is the Weisswurst. It’s a pale and delicate sausage made from minced veal, pork, and spices. It’s typically served with a soft, freshly baked Brezn (pretzel) and a refreshing glass of Weissbier (wheat beer). The best place to savor this dish in Munich is Schneider Bräuhaus.
At this food spot, the sausages are traditionally made fresh in the morning and are meant to be eaten before midday and the locals strictly follow this tradition. Pairing the sausage with a tangy süßer Senf (sweet mustard) enhances the flavor.
Explore the Olympic Village
Built for the 1972 Olympic Games, the Olympiapark offers a range of attractions and green spaces that make it a must-see destination. Visitors can enjoy a hill with stunning panoramic views of the city, as well as several beer gardens perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
On the northern end of the park lies the former women’s Olympic village. Here, you’ll find blocky bungalows, most of which were renovated in 2007. Most of these are now popular student accommodations. These colorful buildings are unique for their artistic exteriors, with each tenant given creative freedom over their façade.
This has led to a vibrant display of ever-changing murals, many influenced by pop culture. One standout is a flat decorated with a ‘Central Perk’ theme, a nod to the iconic café from the TV show Friends.
Conclusion
Munich is a city that offers a perfect mix of tradition, culture, and modern living. Whether you’re sipping beer in a centuries-old beer garden or relaxing in the peaceful beauty of its parks, a weekend in Munich leaves you with memories of a lifetime. The Bavarian hospitality, culture, and spirit will make you want to return again and again.
