5-Day Family Christmas Holiday Itinerary in Munich, Germany
Munich, Germany
5 days
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.
5-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Visiting Nymphenburg Palace and Munich Botanical Garden
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the Nymphenburg Palace, a Baroque palace that was the main summer residence of the former rulers of Bavaria. Explore the palace and its beautiful gardens.
Lunch
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant near the palace, where you can try traditional Bavarian dishes.
Afternoon
After lunch, visit the Munich Botanical Garden, which features a variety of plants from around the world. During Christmas, the garden is beautifully decorated with festive lights.
Dinner
Have dinner at a local restaurant in the city center, where you can try dishes like schnitzel and pretzels.
Evening
End your day with a visit to the Tollwood Winter Festival, a cultural event that features live music, theater performances, and a Christmas market.
Day 3
Discovering Deutsches Museum and Munich Stadtmuseum
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the Deutsches Museum, the world's largest museum of science and technology. Explore the various exhibits, which cover topics like energy, transport, and natural sciences.
Lunch
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in the city center, where you can try dishes like sausages and sauerkraut.
Afternoon
After lunch, visit the Munich Stadtmuseum, which showcases the city's history and culture. Explore the various exhibits, which cover topics like music, film, and fashion.
Dinner
Have dinner at a local restaurant, where you can try traditional German cuisine.
Evening
End your day with a visit to the Christmas market at the Chinese Tower in the English Garden, where you can enjoy a glass of mulled wine and browse the various stalls.
Day 4
Art and History at Pinakothek der Moderne and Olympiapark
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the Pinakothek der Moderne, a modern art museum that houses works by artists like Picasso and Kandinsky. Explore the various exhibits and enjoy the stunning architecture of the building.
Lunch
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in the city center, where you can try dishes like bratwurst and pretzels.
Afternoon
After lunch, visit the Olympiapark, the site of the 1972 Summer Olympics. Explore the park, visit the Olympic Stadium, and enjoy the stunning views of the city from the Olympic Tower.
Dinner
Have dinner at a local restaurant, where you can try traditional Bavarian cuisine.
Evening
End your day with a visit to the Christmas market at the Sendlinger Tor, where you can enjoy a glass of mulled wine and browse the various stalls.
Day 5
Reflecting at Dachau and Relaxing at Schleissheim Palace
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site, a poignant reminder of the atrocities committed during the Holocaust. Take a guided tour to learn more about the history of the site.
Lunch
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Dachau, where you can try traditional German dishes.
Afternoon
After lunch, visit the Schleissheim Palace, a beautiful Baroque palace with stunning gardens. Explore the palace and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Dinner
Have dinner at a local restaurant in the city center, where you can try dishes like schnitzel and sausages.
Evening
End your trip with a visit to the Christmas market at the Marienplatz, where you can enjoy a glass of mulled wine, buy some last-minute gifts, and soak up the festive atmosphere.
Attractions in Itinerary (15)
1Marienplatz
Central square in the city center of Munich, Germany since 1158.
2New Town Hall
A town hall at the northern part of Marienplatz in Munich, Bavaria, Germany.
3Munich Residenz
The former royal palace of the Wittelsbach monarchs of Bavaria.
4English Garden
A large public park in the center of Munich, stretching from the city center to the northeastern city limits.
5Nymphenburg Palace
A Baroque palace in Munich, former summer residence of the rulers of Bavaria.
6Munich Botanical Garden
The Munich Botanical Garden is a 21-hectare oasis in the city, home to over 14,000 plant species. It's a perfect place for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.
7Tollwood 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.
8Deutsches Museum
The world's largest museum of science and technology.
9Munich Stadtmuseum
Munich Stadtmuseum is a must-visit for history and culture enthusiasts. It showcases the city's history, culture, and arts through various exhibits and collections.
10Chinese 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.
11Pinakothek der Moderne
A modern art museum, situated in central Munich's Kunstareal.
12Olympiapark
An Olympic Park which was constructed for the 1972 Summer Olympics.
13Sendlinger Tor
Sendlinger Tor is one of Munich's three remaining medieval city gates. It's a significant historical landmark and a testament to the city's rich history.
14Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site
A memorial to the prisoners who died at the concentration camp in Dachau during World War II.
15Schleissheim Palace
Schleissheim Palace is a grand Baroque palace complex in Munich. It's a stunning example of Baroque architecture and a popular tourist attraction.
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.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
January 6 | Sat | Epiphany (regional holiday) |
March 29 | Fri | Good Friday |
March 31 | Sun | Easter Sunday (regional holiday) |
April 1 | Mon | Easter Monday |
May 1 | Wed | May Day |
May 9 | Thu | Ascension Day |
May 19 | Sun | Whit Sunday (regional holiday) |
May 20 | Mon | Whit Monday |
May 30 | Thu | Corpus Christi (regional holiday) |
August 8 | Thu | Peace Festival in Augsburg (Bavaria) |
August 15 | Thu | Assumption of Mary (regional holiday) |
September 20 | Fri | German World Children's Day (Thuringia) |
October 3 | Thu | Day of German Unity |
October 31 | Thu | Reformation Day (regional holiday) |
November 1 | Fri | All Saints' Day (regional holiday) |
November 20 | Wed | Repentance Day (Saxony) |
December 25 | Wed | Christmas Day |
December 26 | Thu | Boxing Day |
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.
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 (5 pairs)
Socks (5 pairs)
T-shirts (5)
Long-sleeve shirts (2)
Jeans or comfortable trousers (2 pairs)
Shorts (1 pair)
Sweater or hoodie (1)
Lightweight jacket (1)
Comfortable walking shoes (1 pair)
Dress shoes (1 pair)
Pajamas (1 set)
Swimsuit (1)
Scarf, gloves, and hat (if winter)
Raincoat 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
Sunscreen
Lip balm
Travel-size first aid kit
Prescription medications
Hand sanitizer
Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver's license or ID card
Credit and debit cards
Cash (Euros)
Travel insurance documents
Hotel and/or car rental reservations
Emergency contacts and addresses
Map of Munich
Phrasebook or language app
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Headphones
Power bank
Universal travel adapter
Camera and charger
Memory card for camera
Laptop and charger (if necessary)
Miscellaneous items
Snacks for the journey
Travel pillow and blanket
Earplugs and eye mask
Books or e-reader for entertainment
Travel-size laundry detergent
Reusable water bottle
Ziplock bags for organization
Notepad and pen
Tote bag for daily use
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. |
Did you know?
Places near by Munich, Germany
Neuschwanstein Castle
A 19th-century Romanesque Revival palace on a rugged hill above the village of Hohenschwangau.
Dachau Concentration Camp
A memorial site, and the first of the Nazi concentration camps opened in Germany.
Salzburg
The birthplace of Mozart, Salzburg is a city in Austria known for its baroque architecture.
Nuremberg
Known for its medieval architecture, including the fortress Kaiserburg and the walled old town.
Regensburg
A city in southeast Germany, known for its well-preserved medieval core.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber
A well-preserved medieval old town, a destination for tourists from around the world.
Innsbruck
The capital of Austria’s western state of Tyrol, a city in the Alps that's long been a destination for winter sports.
Zugspitze
The highest peak in Germany, offering panoramic views and skiing.
Berchtesgaden National Park
A beautiful national park in the Bavarian Alps.
Stuttgart
Known for its modern and historical architecture, and for hosting two of the largest car companies in the world.
