Munich, the capital of Bavaria, is a cosmopolitan city with a rich history, stunning architecture, and a food scene that’s quietly become one of Europe’s best. And 72 hours is the perfect amount of time to get a feel for the vibe of the city. Here’s how to spend three unforgettable days in Munich—with local tips, standout restaurants, and hidden corners you might otherwise miss.

How Many Days Do I Need in Munich?

Three full days is an ideal amount of time to explore Munich at a comfortable pace. In that time, you can cover the historic Old Town, visit world-class museums, relax in the Englischer Garten, and still have time for a palace or two. If you’re short on time, you can get a good overview in two days, but you’ll likely need to skip a few slower, local experiences. With four or more days, you could mix in day trips, smaller neighborhoods, or even a few hidden gems that most visitors miss.

We also have itineraries for 24 hours and 7 days in Munich.

Where Should I Stay in Munich?

Munich is a compact and well-connected city, so you’ll have a wide range of neighborhoods to choose from depending on your travel style. Whether you want to be within walking distance of the historic sights, tucked away in a trendy café district, or staying somewhere quiet with easy access to transit, there’s a spot for you. From lively city-center areas to peaceful green pockets, we’ve broken down the best neighborhoods to help you pick the perfect base.

Read our full guide on where to stay in Munich for neighborhood overviews, local vibes, and what kind of traveler each area suits best.

Day 1: Classic Munich Sights in the Historic Old Town

The New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus)

Morning

  • Marienplatz: This is the center of Munich’s old town, located near many of the top sights and attractions. Watch the Glockenspiel chime on the New Town Hall building (Neues Rathaus) at 11 am or 12 pm.
  • Viktualienmarkt: Now make the short trek just 3 minutes away to this colorful market, which is packed with produce stands, sausage stalls, flowers, and local delicacies. Grab a quick snack or sit in the market’s beer garden.
  • Cafe Frischhut: If you haven’t eaten yet, head across the street for a classic Bavarian pastry – the Schmalznudel!

Midday

  • Residenz: Walk 10 minutes north to Munich’s former royal palace. Highlights include the Antiquarium banquet hall, the Royal Treasury, and the rococo Cuvilliés Theatre. Allow 1.5–2 hours for the full experience.
  • Hofgarten: Exit directly into this peaceful garden. Watch locals play bocce or enjoy live classical music under the temple-like rotunda. Great spot to rest your legs.
  • Dallmayr Delikatessenhaus: Just a 5-minute walk away, this gourmet food hall is perfect for browsing or grabbing a quick bite like smoked salmon, a deli sandwich, or handmade pralines.

Insider tip: If you’re short on time at the Residenz, skip to the Antiquarium and the Treasury—they’re the most impressive and immersive parts of the palace.

Evening

  • Englischer Garten: From Odeonsplatz, walk 15–20 minutes or take U5 to Lehel to reach the park’s southern entrance. Watch the surfers at the Eisbachwelle, then stroll through meadows and forest paths.
  • Seehaus Beer Garden: Walk 15 minutes north through the park to reach this lakeside beer garden. Sit by the water with a beer and order schnitzel or sausage from the self-service counter. Keep in mind that beer gardens are only open on nice days (sunny, no rain).
  • Wirtshaus in der Au: Take bus 54 or tram 19 to Isartor, then walk 7 minutes to this traditional tavern. Famous for its giant dumplings and hearty Bavarian dishes.

Day 2: Museums, Neighborhood Vibes, and River Walks

Morning

  • Kunstareal (Museum Quarter): Choose a museum or two in this cultural hub. The Alte Pinakothek is best for European masterpieces; the Pinakothek der Moderne covers art, design, and architecture; and Lenbachhaus is ideal for fans of Kandinsky and German Expressionism.
  • Kaffee Espresso Kolonial: A short walk from the museums, this moody, stylish café serves excellent espresso and pastries. Perfect for a recharge between exhibitions.

Midday

  • Glockenbachviertel: Take U2 from Königsplatz to Sendlinger Tor, then walk 10 minutes into this trendy district. Full of boutiques, record stores, and artsy cafés.
  • Garten Salon: Tucked away on a quiet side street, this charming café is decorated with vintage furniture and serves fresh salads, creative lunch specials, and cakes in a sunny courtyard.
The Isar River

Afternoon

  • Isar River Walk: Walk 10 minutes east to Reichenbachbrücke, then follow the river south along gravel paths. Locals sunbathe, read, or swim here on warm days. It’s one of Munich’s best non-touristy experiences.

Evening

  • Neni Munich: Take U1/U2/U7/U8 to Hauptbahnhof Nord, then walk 10 minutes to the rooftop of the 25hours Hotel. Shareable dishes with Middle Eastern and Mediterranean influences make this one of the most vibrant dinner spots in the city.

Day 3: Palaces and City Views

Morning

  • Weißwurst Breakfast at Schneider Bräuhaus: Start your day with a traditional Bavarian breakfast at Schneider Bräuhaus (just off Marienplatz). Order a pair of Weißwürste (veal sausages) with sweet mustard, a soft pretzel, and a Weißbier (yes, even in the morning—it’s tradition). Arrive before 11:30 am, as the sausages are traditionally not eaten past noon.
  • Schloss Nymphenburg: After breakfast, take tram 17 from Karlsplatz/Stachus to Schloss Nymphenburg (approx. 25 minutes). This vast Baroque palace was the summer residence of Bavarian kings. Visit the grand Stone Hall, explore the royal apartments, and wander through the enormous landscaped gardens dotted with lakes and smaller palaces like Amalienburg (a rococo hunting lodge).

Insider tip: Visit the Marstallmuseum on-site — a quiet gem featuring lavish carriages and sleighs from Munich’s royal past.

Olympia Park

Midday

  • BMW Welt & Olympiapark: Take U3 to Olympiazentrum to explore Munich’s sleek, modern side. At BMW Welt, browse futuristic showrooms, interactive exhibits, and rare car models. Across the road, walk through Olympiapark, the site of the 1972 Olympics.
  • Olympiaturm (Olympic Tower): Ride the elevator to the observation deck for panoramic views of Munich and the Alps on clear days—ideal at golden hour or sunset.

Evening

  • Leopoldstraße Stroll: Begin your evening with a walk along this lively boulevard (heading up to Münchener Freiheit), the heart of Schwabing. Lined with cafés, bookstores, and boutiques, it’s the perfect place to soak in the bohemian energy of the neighborhood.
  • Dinner at Occam Deli: Just a short walk from Münchner Freiheit station, this stylish restaurant mixes New York deli vibes with Mediterranean dishes and Munich cool. Known for fresh pastas, salads, and an excellent wine list, it’s a local favorite for a laid-back but polished dinner.
  • Drinks at Weinbau or Bar Mural: Wrap up the evening with a glass of natural wine at Weinbau, a relaxed and cozy wine bar nearby, or head to Bar Mural Schwabing for a cocktail in a minimalist, urban space with a rotating seasonal menu.

Insider tip: It’s also possible to take a day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle on your last day in Munich. Check out our detailed guide on what to see and how to get to Neuschwanstein Castle here.