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Explore Munich: A 5-Day Itinerary

Viewed by 108 travelers

December 19 - 23, 2023

Tuesday, December 19: Arrival and City Exploration

Welcome to Munich, Germany! Start your trip by checking into your hotel and freshening up. In the morning, head to Marienplatz, the heart of the city, to witness the famous Glockenspiel chime at the New Town Hall. Take a stroll through the charming streets of the Altstadt (Old Town) and indulge in some Christmas market shopping. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Frauenkirche and enjoy panoramic views from its twin towers. In the evening, experience the festive atmosphere at the Tollwood Winter Festival with its vibrant cultural performances and delightful food stalls.

  • Marienplatz and Glockenspiel: Free, ~2 hours
  • Altstadt and Christmas Markets: Cost varies, ~3 hours
  • Frauenkirche: €3, ~1 hour
  • Tollwood Winter Festival: Entrance fee varies, ~2 hours
Wednesday, December 20: Palace and Museum Day

Immerse yourself in history and culture today. Start your morning with a visit to the Nymphenburg Palace, a magnificent Baroque palace surrounded by stunning gardens. Explore the opulent rooms, visit the Marstallmuseum, and enjoy a leisurely walk in the palace grounds. In the afternoon, head to the Pinakothek der Moderne, a modern art museum showcasing works from the 20th and 21st centuries. End your day with a visit to the Haus der Kunst, an iconic museum dedicated to contemporary art.

  • Nymphenburg Palace: €6, ~3 hours
  • Pinakothek der Moderne: €10, ~2 hours
  • Haus der Kunst: €10, ~2 hours
Thursday, December 21: Day Trip to Neuschwanstein Castle

Embark on an enchanting day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle, one of the most iconic castles in the world. Located in the breathtaking Bavarian Alps, this fairytale castle inspired Disney's Sleeping Beauty Castle. Take a guided tour inside the castle, exploring its breathtaking rooms and enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. After visiting the castle, take a scenic walk around Lake Alpsee before heading back to Munich.

  • Day Trip to Neuschwanstein Castle: €25 (including transportation and castle tour), ~6 hours
Friday, December 22: Oktoberfest Park and Museums

Start your day with a visit to the site of the famous Oktoberfest, Theresienwiese. Although the festival takes place in September, you can still experience the lively atmosphere and picture yourself among the crowds. Visit the Bavaria statue and climb to the top for panoramic views of the city. In the afternoon, explore the cultural side of Munich with visits to the Deutsches Museum, the world's largest museum of science and technology, and the BMW Museum, where you can learn about the history and innovations of BMW cars.

  • Theresienwiese: Free, ~1 hour
  • Bavaria Statue: Free, ~1 hour
  • Deutsches Museum: €14, ~3 hours
  • BMW Museum: €10, ~2 hours
Saturday, December 23: English Garden and Local Delights

Spend your final day in Munich exploring the English Garden, one of the world's largest urban public parks. Take a leisurely stroll, rent a paddleboat on the Kleinhesseloher See, and relax in the beer garden near the historic Chinese Tower. In the afternoon, visit the Viktualienmarkt, a traditional farmers' market, to sample local delicacies and shop for souvenirs. End your trip by indulging in Bavarian cuisine at a traditional beer hall, where you can try hearty dishes like pork knuckle and sausages.

  • English Garden: Free, ~3 hours
  • Viktualienmarkt: Cost varies, ~2 hours
  • Traditional Beer Hall Dinner: Cost varies, ~2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Munich, make sure to visit the alternative neighborhood of Glockenbachviertel, popular among locals for its trendy cafes, boutique shops, and vibrant nightlife. Another hidden gem is the Asam Church, a small Baroque masterpiece tucked away in a narrow street, adorned with ornate decorations. For a peaceful retreat, visit the Starnberger See, a picturesque lake located just outside of Munich, where you can enjoy nature and stunning views of the Alps.

Check out KAYAK for great deals on hotels and flights.

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