More about: Things to do in Munich in 2 Days
Munich is noted for its rich history, its role as the centre of Bavarian culture and its impressive architecture. Although the city offers much to discover, you can enjoy its main attractions in just two days if you follow this well-planned itinerary. The route moves from the centre to the outskirts to make the most of your time and transport.
Day 1: Munich's Old Town, Hofbräuhaus and English Park
Take a tour of the historic centre of Munich
If you book a guided tour of Munich, you will get to see some of the highlights of the Old Town with a professional guide. The tour lasts about two hours and costs about €22. You can do it on your own, but without the enriching historical explanations.
Go to Karlsplatz
The tour usually starts at Karlsplatz, where the imposing Karlstor arch marks the entrance to the centre. It is a square steeped in history and a key place in the daily life of Munich.
Let yourself be surprised by Frauenkirche
Just a few minutes from Karlsplatz is the Cathedral of Our Lady of Munich, one of the most important churches in the city. It is remarkable for its capacity (20,000 people) and its towers, which no other building in the city centre can surpass in height.
Enter the Marienplatz and enjoy the Glockenspiel carillon
At Marienplatz you will see the famous Neues Rathaus tower, where the Glockenspiel carillon is located. The mechanical clock figures dance to the rhythm of the music three times a day: at 11 a.m., 12 noon and 5 p.m.
Don't miss Viktualienmarkt
This open-air market is ideal for sampling a Bavarian breakfast such as pretzels with obatzda, a typical cream cheese accompanied by beer in one of its gardens.
Visit Saint Peter's Church
Next to the market is St. Peter's Church, the oldest church in Munich. From its 91-metre tower you have a spectacular panoramic view.
Admire the Residence of the Wittelsbach Royal Family
In Residenzstraße you can visit the Wittelsbach Residence, royal seat for centuries. Highlights include the antiquarian hall, a gallery with sculptures and frescoes. Admission costs €13, and a full tour can take more than 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 want to delve deeper into the subject, you can book a tour of the Third Reich.
Enjoy a beer at the Hofbrauhaus
At 12.45 p.m. go to the Hofbrauhaus brewery, which has been open since the 16th century. Order a radler if you don't want to get drunk, and accompany it with weisswurst, the traditional white sausage.
Dinner in the English Park
This huge park has attractions such as a Japanese teahouse, a Greek monopole and a Chinese tower with beer garden. The atmosphere is ideal for ending the day with dinner in the open air.
See the nightlife at the Feierbanane
In the evening, head to Feierbanane, a bar area between Brienner and Blumen streets. If you're looking for a trendy club, check out the Blitz Music Club, which is 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 tour of the Dachau concentration camp, a moving and unmissable experience. It is best to book a guided tour. The guided tour lasts between 3 and 5 hours.
Tour of Nymphenburg Palace
After returning to Munich and 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 to the Alte Pinakothek
This art gallery contains works by masters such as Da Vinci, Dürer, Rubens and Goya. If you prefer contemporary art, opt for the Pinakothek der Moderne, just opposite.
Dinner at the Olympic Park
End the day at the Olympic Park, with attractions such as the aquarium, a skating rink and the 291m Olympic tower. Dine in the beer garden and enjoy the illuminated park at night.