3-Day Christmas Holiday Experience in Munich, Germany

Munich, Germany

3 days

Christmas holidays

Tourist

Christmas decorations in a shopping mall

About Munich, Germany

Experience the heart of Bavaria in Munich, Germany. This city is a blend of traditional German culture and modern lifestyle. Visit the iconic Marienplatz, showcasing the city's Gothic architecture, or explore the vast English Garden, one of the world's largest urban parks. Munich is also home to world-class museums like the Deutsches Museum and the Pinakothek art galleries. Don't miss the chance to taste authentic Bavarian cuisine in the bustling Viktualienmarkt or enjoy a beer in the famous Hofbräuhaus. For history enthusiasts, a trip to the Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site is a must. Munich is also the gateway to the Bavarian Alps, making it an ideal base for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or an art lover, Munich has something for everyone.

3-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the City Center and the Christmas Market

Morning

Start your day at the Marienplatz, the city's main square, where you can admire the New Town Hall and the Glockenspiel, a beautiful carillon that plays at 11 am and noon.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional German lunch at a local restaurant in the city center.

Afternoon

Visit the Munich Residenz, the former royal palace of the Wittelsbach monarchs of Bavaria. Explore its stunning rooms and the Treasury, which houses a unique collection of royal artifacts.

Dinner

Have dinner at a traditional Bavarian restaurant, where you can try local dishes such as pretzels, sausages, and sauerkraut.

Evening

Experience the magic of the Munich Christmas Market, one of the oldest in Germany. Enjoy mulled wine, gingerbread, and other festive treats while browsing the stalls for unique Christmas gifts.

Day 2

Royal Palaces, Museums, and the Tollwood Winter Festival

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Nymphenburg Palace, a Baroque palace that was the summer residence of the former rulers of Bavaria. Explore the palace and its beautiful gardens.

Lunch

Have lunch at a cozy restaurant near the palace.

Afternoon

Visit the Deutsches Museum, the world's largest museum of science and technology. Explore its fascinating exhibits on a wide range of topics, from astronomy to transportation.

Dinner

Enjoy a hearty dinner at a local restaurant in the city center.

Evening

Visit the Tollwood Winter Festival, a cultural event with live music, theater performances, and a Christmas market with a focus on sustainability.

Day 3

Parks, Art Galleries, and Ice Skating

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the English Garden, one of the largest urban parks in the world. Enjoy a peaceful walk and admire the Chinese Tower, a 25-meter-high wooden structure.

Lunch

Have lunch at a traditional beer garden in the park.

Afternoon

Visit the Alte Pinakothek, one of the oldest art galleries in the world. It houses a significant collection of Old Master paintings.

Dinner

Enjoy your last dinner in Munich at a restaurant in the city center, where you can try some local specialties.

Evening

End your trip with a visit to the Munich Ice Magic, an ice-skating rink in the heart of the city. Enjoy the festive atmosphere and the beautiful views of the illuminated city.

Attractions in Itinerary (12)

1
Marienplatz

Central square in the city center of Munich, Germany since 1158.

Attractions

Landmarks

Architecture

2
New Town Hall

A town hall at the northern part of Marienplatz in Munich, Bavaria, Germany.

Attractions

Monuments

Architecture

3
Glockenspiel

A beautiful carillon in the New Town Hall's tower that chimes and re-enacts two stories from the 16th century.

Attractions

Monuments

4
Munich Residenz

The former royal palace of the Wittelsbach monarchs of Bavaria.

Attractions

Monuments

Architecture

Museums

5
Munich Christmas Market

The Munich Christmas Market is a festive event that takes place annually in the heart of Munich. It offers a wide range of traditional Christmas goods, food, and drinks.

Attractions

Cultural Experiences

Shopping

6
Nymphenburg Palace

A Baroque palace in Munich, former summer residence of the rulers of Bavaria.

Attractions

Monuments

Architecture

Gardens

7
Deutsches Museum

The world's largest museum of science and technology.

Museums

Cultural Experiences

8
Tollwood Winter Festival

The Tollwood Winter Festival is a cultural event that takes place in Munich every winter. It showcases a variety of international music, theater, and art performances.

Attractions

Cultural Experiences

Entertainment

9
English Garden

A large public park in the center of Munich, stretching from the city center to the northeastern city limits.

Attractions

Parks

Sports

Gardens

10
Chinese Tower

A 25-meter high wooden structure located in the English Garden, modeled after the 'Great Pagoda' in London's Kew Gardens. It's a popular meeting point and also hosts a beer garden.

Attractions

Landmarks

Food and Drink

11
Alte Pinakothek

One of the oldest art galleries in the world, housing one of the most famous collections of Old Master paintings.

Museums

Cultural Experiences

Architecture

12
Munich Ice Magic

Munich Ice Magic is a winter event that transforms Stachus Square into a large ice rink, offering various winter activities and entertainment.

Attractions

Sports

Entertainment

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Weisswurst

A traditional Bavarian sausage made from minced veal and pork back bacon. It is usually flavored with parsley, lemon, mace, onions, ginger, and cardamom. It's a breakfast staple in Munich.

Pretzel

Known as 'Brezel' in Germany, it's a type of baked bread product made from dough most commonly shaped into a twisted knot. It's a popular snack in Munich, often enjoyed with beer.

Sauerbraten

A pot roast, usually of beef, marinated before being slow-cooked. It's a national dish of Germany and a must-try for visitors in Munich.

Schweinshaxe

A large pork knuckle roasted till it's crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. It's a Bavarian specialty and a common sight in Munich's beer gardens.

Apfelstrudel

A traditional Viennese strudel, a popular pastry in Munich. It's filled with apples, sugar, cinnamon, raisins, and bread crumbs.

Bratwurst

A type of German sausage made from pork, beef, or veal. It's a common street food in Munich, often served with mustard and a piece of bread or a roll.

Leberkäse

A specialty food found in the south of Germany, in particular Bavaria. It's a type of baked sausage made from corned beef, pork, bacon and onions.

Käsespätzle

A traditional Swabian dish that has made its way to Munich. It's a German version of mac and cheese, made with egg noodles and a variety of cheeses.

Beer

Munich is famous for its breweries and beer gardens. The city is known for its lagers, wheat beers, and bocks. Oktoberfest, the world's largest beer festival, is held annually in Munich.

Glühwein

A mulled wine served hot, especially during the winter and Christmas markets in Munich. It's made with red wine, citrus fruits, and spices.

Eiskaffee

A popular summer drink in Munich. It's essentially cold coffee with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, and sometimes chocolate sprinkles.

Radler

A refreshing beer-based mixed drink. It's a combination of beer (usually a light lager) and sparkling lemonade, popular in Munich, especially during the summer months.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Munich, Germany is from late spring to early autumn, specifically between May and September. During these months, the weather is warm and pleasant, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Additionally, the famous Oktoberfest beer festival typically takes place from late September to the first weekend in October, attracting tourists from around the world. However, if you're a fan of winter sports or Christmas markets, December could also be a great time to visit.

How to get around

U-Bahn (Subway)

Munich's U-Bahn system is a comprehensive and efficient way to get around the city. It operates from early morning until late at night, with reduced services on weekends and holidays. There are eight lines (U1 to U8) serving most parts of Munich.

S-Bahn (Suburban Train)

The S-Bahn is a network of suburban trains that connect Munich with its surrounding areas. It's also a convenient way to reach the city center from Munich Airport. The S-Bahn operates from early morning until late at night, with reduced services on weekends and holidays.

Tram

Munich's tram network is an efficient and scenic way to get around the city. Trams usually operate from early morning until midnight, with some lines offering 24-hour service.

Bus

Buses complement the U-Bahn, S-Bahn, and tram services in Munich, reaching areas of the city that are not served by rail. Night buses operate after the regular services have ended, ensuring that you can get around the city at any time.

Bicycle

Munich is a bike-friendly city with many dedicated bike lanes and paths. You can rent a bike from one of the many bike rental shops in the city, or use the MVG Rad, a bike sharing service operated by Munich's public transport company.

Car

Driving in Munich can be challenging due to heavy traffic and limited parking. However, car rental services are available if you prefer to drive. Remember to abide by the local traffic rules and regulations.

Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Munich, and can be hailed on the street, booked by phone, or picked up from designated taxi ranks. They offer a convenient, though more expensive, way to get around the city.

Ridesharing

Ridesharing services, such as Uber, are available in Munich. They can be a convenient and cost-effective way to get around the city, especially if you're traveling with a group or have a lot of luggage.

Foot

Many of Munich's attractions are located close to each other in the city center, making walking a viable option. The city is pedestrian-friendly, with plenty of pedestrian zones and parks.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency€ EUR

Time zoneUTC+1

Driving sideRight

Emergency phoneAmbulance and Fire: 112; Police: 110

Drinking waterYes

Power sockets

Voltage230 V

Things to know about Munich, Germany as a first time visitor

1

Munich is located in the southern part of Germany, in the state of Bavaria.

2

The official language is German, but English is widely spoken in most places.

3

The currency used is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always good to carry some cash for smaller establishments.

4

Public transportation in Munich is excellent. It includes the U-Bahn (underground), S-Bahn (suburban trains), trams, and buses.

5

Munich is generally a safe city, but like any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.

6

Tipping is customary in Munich. Usually, a tip of 10-15% is expected in restaurants and taxis.

7

The city has a temperate seasonal climate. Summers (June to August) can be warm with temperatures ranging from 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C). Winters (December to February) can be cold with temperatures often dropping below freezing.

8

Munich is known for its beer and breweries. The legal drinking age is 16 for beer and wine, and 18 for spirits.

9

The city is very pedestrian-friendly, and also has an extensive network of bike lanes.

10

Shops in Munich generally close earlier than in many other major cities. Most stores close by 8 PM during the week and are closed on Sundays.

11

Germans are generally punctual and value efficiency. It's important to be on time for appointments or reservations.

12

Munich operates on Central European Time (CET) and observes daylight saving time.

13

The city has a strong recycling culture. Be sure to separate your waste appropriately in public bins.

14

Smoking is prohibited in all public buildings, including bars and restaurants.

15

Tap water is safe to drink and is of high quality.

16

Munich's cuisine is hearty and rich, featuring dishes like pretzels, sausages, and schnitzel.

17

The city is very clean and littering is frowned upon.

18

Munich has a mix of modern and traditional architecture, with many buildings still showing the city's historical roots.

19

Germans value their privacy. It's considered impolite to stare or take photos of people without their permission.

20

Munich is home to many festivals throughout the year, the most famous being Oktoberfest. If you're visiting during a festival, be sure to book accommodations well in advance.

Basic German to know as a first time visitor

English phrase	Native phrase	Pronunciation	When to use it
Hello	Hallo	ha-lo	Greeting someone
Goodbye	Auf Wiedersehen	owf vee-der-zayn	Saying goodbye
Please	Bitte	bit-te	Making a request
Thank you	Danke	dahn-ke	Expressing gratitude
Yes	Ja	ya	Agreeing or confirming
No	Nein	nine	Disagreeing or denying
Excuse me	Entschuldigung	ent-shool-dee-goong	Getting attention or apologizing
I'm sorry	Es tut mir leid	es toot meer lite	Apologizing
Do you speak English?	Sprechen Sie Englisch?	shpre-shen zee eng-lish	Asking if someone speaks English
I don't understand	Ich verstehe nicht	ish fer-shtay-uh nikht	Expressing difficulty in understanding
Where is the bathroom?	Wo ist die Toilette?	vo ist dee toy-let-te	Asking for directions
Help	Hilfe	hill-fe	Asking for assistance
I'm lost	Ich habe mich verlaufen	ish ha-be mish fer-low-fen	Expressing that you're lost
Can I have the menu, please?	Kann ich bitte die Speisekarte haben?	kahn ish bit-te dee shpy-zuh-kar-te ha-ben	At a restaurant
How much does it cost?	Wie viel kostet das?	vee feel kos-tet das	Asking for the price
Where is...?	Wo ist...?	vo ist	Asking for directions
I would like...	Ich möchte...	ish moe-sh-te	Making a request
Cheers	Prost	prohst	Making a toast
Good morning	Guten Morgen	goo-ten mor-gen	Greeting someone in the morning
Good night	Gute Nacht	goo-te nakht	Saying goodnight

Packing List

Clothing
Underwear
Socks
T-shirts
Pants/Jeans
Comfortable walking shoes
Sweater or jacket
Pajamas
Swimwear (if applicable)
Rain jacket or umbrella

Toiletries
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Razor and shaving cream
Makeup and makeup remover
Hairbrush or comb
Prescription medications
First aid kit

Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver's license or ID card
Credit and debit cards
Cash and coins
Travel insurance documents
Hotel and/or car rental reservations
Emergency contacts and important addresses

Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Headphones
Camera
Charger for camera
Travel adapter for plugs
Portable power bank

Miscellaneous items
Travel guidebook for Munich
Snacks
Bottled water
Travel pillow and blanket
Earplugs and eye mask
Reusable shopping bag
Pen and notebook

Weather Conditions

Munich, Germany, experiences a temperate seasonal climate, with variations throughout the year that can impact your travel plans. In the winter months, from December to February, Munich can get quite cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Expect average temperatures to range from 27°F to 34°F (-3°C to 1°C). It's not uncommon for the city to be blanketed in snow, so pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat. If you're a fan of winter sports, this is a great time to visit as the nearby Bavarian Alps offer excellent skiing opportunities. Spring, from March to May, sees a gradual warming with temperatures ranging from 37°F to 64°F (3°C to 18°C). This is a beautiful time to visit Munich as the city comes alive with blooming flowers. However, spring can also be quite wet, so don't forget to pack a raincoat or umbrella. Summer, from June to August, is the warmest season with temperatures ranging from 55°F to 75°F (13°C to 24°C). This is a popular time for tourists, so expect larger crowds, especially during the famous Munich Beer Festival. Don't forget to pack sunscreen and a hat to protect against the sun. Autumn, from September to November, sees cooler temperatures ranging from 37°F to 64°F (3°C to 18°C). The city is particularly beautiful during this time as the leaves change color. However, similar to spring, autumn can be quite wet, so packing a raincoat or umbrella is advisable. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip so you can pack accordingly. Also, keep in mind that weather can change quickly in Munich, so it's always a good idea to have a light jacket or sweater with you. Enjoy your trip to this beautiful city!

Month	Hi / Lo (°C)	Weather Overview
January	4° / -3°	January is the coldest month in Munich, with frequent snowfall and icy conditions. Dress warmly and enjoy the winter wonderland.
February	6° / -2°	February is still quite cold with occasional snowfall. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy winter sports.
March	11° / 1°	March sees the beginning of spring with slightly warmer temperatures. However, there can still be occasional snowfall.
April	16° / 4°	April is a pleasant month with the arrival of spring. The city starts to bloom, but there can be occasional showers.
May	20° / 8°	May is a beautiful month to visit Munich, with mild temperatures and blooming flowers. However, it can be a bit rainy.
June	25° / 11°	June marks the beginning of summer with long, sunny days. It's a great time to explore the city's parks and outdoor attractions.
July	27° / 13°	July is the warmest month in Munich, perfect for outdoor activities. However, it can get quite hot, so stay hydrated.
August	25° / 13°	August is still quite warm, but with more rainfall. It's a good time to visit museums and indoor attractions.
September	21° / 9°	September is a pleasant month with fewer tourists and mild temperatures. It's a great time to enjoy Oktoberfest.
October	15° / 5°	October sees the arrival of autumn with cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage. It's a good time to visit if you enjoy quieter sightseeing.
November	9° / 1°	November is quite cold with the first signs of winter. It's a good time to visit Christmas markets and enjoy indoor activities.
December	5° / -1°	December is a magical time to visit Munich with Christmas markets and festive decorations. However, it can be quite cold, so dress warmly.