More about: Things to do in Munich in 2 Days
Munich stands out for its rich history, its role as the center of Bavarian culture, and its impressive architecture. Although the city offers plenty to discover, you can enjoy its main attractions in just two days if you follow this well-planned itinerary. The route takes you from the city center to the outskirts to make the most of your time and transportation.
Day 1: Munich’s Historic Center, the Hofbräuhaus, and the English Garden
Take a tour of Munich’s historic center
If you book a guided tour of Munich, you’ll get to see several of the Old Town’s most iconic sites with a professional guide. The tour lasts about 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 begins at Karlsplatz, where the imposing Karlstor arch marks the entrance to the city center. It’s a square steeped in history and a key hub of daily life in Munich.
Be amazed by the Frauenkirche
Just a few minutes from Karlsplatz is 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 center 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 a.m., 12 p.m., and 5 p.m.
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 —paired with beer in one of its outdoor seating areas.
Visit St. Peter’s Church
Next to the market is St. Peter’s Church, the oldest in Munich. From its 91-meter tower, you’ll 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 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’d like to learn more about this topic, you can book a tour of the Third Reich.
Enjoy a beer at Hofbräuhaus
At 12:45 p.m., 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 pair it with weisswurst, the traditional white sausage.
Dinner in the English Park
This enormous park features attractions such as a Japanese tea house, a Greek monopteros, and a Chinese tower with a beer garden. The atmosphere is perfect for ending the day with an al fresco dinner.
Experience the Nightlife at Feierbanane
At night, 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 of the morning.
Day 2: Visit Dachau, Nymphenburg Palace, and the Olympic Park
Take a tour of the Dachau concentration camp
Start your 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.
Tour 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 Grand Hall, the Gallery of Beauties, and the Carriage Museum.
Visit the Alte Pinakothek
This art gallery features works by masters such as da Vinci, Dürer, Rubens, and Goya. If you prefer contemporary art, head to the Pinakothek der Moderne, right across the street.
Dinner at the Olympic Park
End the day at the Olympic Park, with attractions like the aquarium, an ice rink, and the 291-meter Olympic Tower. Have dinner at the beer garden and enjoy the park illuminated at night.