I used to live in Munich and absolutely love this city – it has everything from culture and green parks to cozy beer gardens and historical charm. This time, we decided to revisit it with our kids and show them what makes this gorgeous city so special. If you only have one day in Munich, here’s how to make the most of it – with or without kids.
By the way did you know that Salzburg and Vienna are both fantastic destinations for a day trip or extended stay from Munich, easily accessible by train, bus, or car, offering a perfect blend of culture, history, and stunning scenery.
1. Why Visit Munich?
Munich is the perfect blend of old-world charm and modern energy. Whether you’re into art, history, nature, or shopping, the city delivers. With iconic sights like Marienplatz, the English Garden, and Nymphenburg Palace, it’s easy to fill a day with unforgettable experiences. And for families? Munich is surprisingly kid-friendly – think playgrounds in parks, family-friendly museums, and plenty of space to roam.
2. When to Visit Munich
Munich is beautiful year-round, but spring and early autumn are our favorite times to visit. The weather is pleasant, parks are in bloom (or glowing with autumn colors), and it’s not as crowded as during Oktoberfest or the peak summer season. Winter also has its charm with magical Christmas markets and cozy cafés, but be sure to bundle up!
3. Getting to Munich
Getting to Munich is super easy. The city has excellent train connections from all over Europe, a well-connected international airport (Franz Josef Strauss), and is easily accessible by car or long-distance bus. We arrived by train, which is always fun with kids – especially when the destination is a city like Munich.
4. Where to Stay in Munich
During our family trip to Munich, we stayed at Hotel Bauer, and it turned out to be the perfect choice for traveling with kids. Located in a peaceful, family-friendly area, it offers a quiet escape from the city buzz while still being well-connected to the city center – just hop on the metro, and you’re there in no time. The hotel itself features spacious and beautifully designed rooms, giving everyone room to relax. Our kids especially loved the large indoor swimming pool, and we all enjoyed the spa facilities after a day of sightseeing.
Another highlight was the food. The breakfast buffet was truly fantastic, with everything from fresh fruit and homemade pastries to hot options like eggs, sausages, and even pancakes. The hotel’s restaurant also serves delicious meals throughout the day, making it easy to refuel without heading back into town. If you’re visiting Munich with family, in my opinion Hotel Bauer offers comfort, convenience, and that extra touch of relaxation. It definitely made our stay memorable!
5. Best Way to Get Around Munich
Munich is a super walkable city, especially the central parts. The public transportation system (U-Bahn, S-Bahn, trams, and buses) is also excellent, reliable, and stroller-friendly. For a fun twist, rent bikes – including cargo bikes for kids – and ride through the English Garden or along the Isar River.
Best Guided Tours
- I always recommend getting the Munich City Card if you’re visiting—it’s a budget-friendly way to explore. With unlimited public transport and great discounts on attractions, museums, and tours, it really enhances the experience.
- Munich Hop-On Hop-Off Tour: 1-Day or 2-Day Ticket A great way to see the city without the stress of planning. You can hop off at major sights and enjoy the flexibility
- Munich: Old Town Guided Walking Tour Dive into history with a knowledgeable guide who brings Munich’s stories to life.
1 Perfect Day in Munich
Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall)
The Neues Rathaus, located in the heart of Marienplatz, is an iconic building that represents Munich’s Gothic architectural style. Don’t miss the famous Glockenspiel performance at 11:00 am, where mechanical figurines reenact historical events — it’s a fun and impressive spectacle!
Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall)
Just next door to the New Town Hall, the Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall) adds to the fairy-tale charm of Marienplatz. This historical building is home to the Toy Museum, which is a treat for both kids and adults. The tower offers fantastic views of the square below.
Toy Museum
Tucked inside the Old Town Hall tower, the Toy Museum showcases a collection of antique toys, providing a nostalgic experience for adults while delighting children with its whimsical displays. It’s a hidden gem, perfect for a family visit.
Address: Marienplatz 15, 80331 München, Germany
St. Peter’s Church
Climb the 300 steps to the top of St. Peter’s Church for panoramic views of Munich. The climb is worth it, as you’ll be able to see the city stretching out below, with the Alps in the distance on clear days.
Address: Peterspl. 1, 80331 München, Germany
Viktualienmarkt
Munich’s oldest and most famous food market, Viktualienmarkt, is a must-see. Located just a short walk from Marienplatz, you can sample Bavarian delicacies, fresh juices, and local snacks while enjoying the lively atmosphere. It’s a perfect stop to get a taste of Munich’s culinary delights.
Munich Residenz
This is one of the most beautiful places in Munich. And doubtlessly very instagramable! Once the home of Bavarian kings, the Munich Residenz is now a museum that boasts a stunning collection of royal rooms, art, and treasures. Visitors can explore the lavish interiors, which include royal chambers, grand halls, and beautiful courtyards. Get tickets online.
Address: Residenzstraße 1, 80333 München, Germany
English Garden (Englischer Garten)
One of the largest urban parks in the world, the English Garden is perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic. The park also features the famous river surfers near the Eisbach wave and beautiful walking paths along the riverbanks.
Haus der Kunst
Haus der Kunst is a contemporary art museum in Munich, hosting a variety of rotating exhibitions from both established and emerging artists. Located near the English Garden, it’s a great spot to dive into modern art while enjoying the scenic surroundings.
Address: Prinzregentenstraße 1, 80538 München, Germany
Deutsches Museum
The Deutsches Museum is one of the world’s largest museums dedicated to science and technology. With interactive exhibits, this museum is great for children and adults alike, offering fascinating insights into everything from space exploration to historical inventions.
Address: Museumsinsel 1, 80538 München, Germany
The Pinakothek Museums
Munich is home to several world-renowned art museums. The Pinakothek museums are among the most important:
- Alte Pinakothek houses classic master paintings from artists like Rembrandt, Raphael, and Vermeer.
- Neue Pinakothek showcases 19th-century art, with works from artists such as Van Gogh and Monet.
- Pinakothek der Moderne is a contemporary art museum, featuring modern art, design, architecture, and more.
Address: Barer Str. 27, 80333 München, Germany
Nymphenburg Palace
One of my favourite places in Munich was Nymphenburg Palace. It’s very easy and fast to reach by car or even public transport since it’Ss located just outside Munich. Nymphenburg Palace is a Baroque palace with sprawling gardens, picturesque lakes, and a carriage museum. It’s a perfect spot for a peaceful walk or an exploration of Bavarian royalty’s lavish lifestyle. To visit this sight seeing you will definitely need another day to stay in Munich!
Address: Schloß Nymphenburg 1, 80638 München, Germany
Olympic Park
Another amazing place to visit in Munich especially if you travel with kids is Olympic Park. Built for the 1972 Summer Olympics, the Olympic Park is a vast area offering plenty of activities, from the Olympic Tower with stunning views of Munich to a variety of sports facilities and lakes. It’s a great location for a family-friendly day out. But for this one I would also recommend one more day in Munich.
Address: Spiridon-Louis-Ring 21, 80809 München, Germany
Neuschwanstein Castle (Day Trip)
Although it’s not in Munich, a trip to Neuschwanstein Castle is highly recommended. Known as the inspiration for Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle, it’s one of Germany’s most famous landmarks. A day trip from Munich will take you to this fairytale-like destination surrounded by stunning natural beauty. You can book your trip here!
Address: Neuschwansteinstraße 20, 87645 Schwangau, Germany
What’s your favorite hidden gem in Munich that you think every traveler should see? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below!
