Munich boasts one of the most efficient and well-connected public transportation systems in Europe. With a network of trains, trams, buses, and subways, getting around the Bavarian capital is seamless and stress-free – even if it may not seem like it to a first-time visitor! But don’t worry, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about navigating Munich’s public transportation system like a pro.

Overview of Munich’s Public Transport System

Munich’s public transportation is operated by the MVV (Münchner Verkehrs- und Tarifverbund). The network includes the following:

  • U-Bahn (Subway): A fast and frequent underground train system that serves the city and nearby neighborhoods.
  • S-Bahn (Suburban Trains): Ideal for longer distances and traveling to areas outside the city center, including the airport.
  • Trams: A scenic way to explore the city, trams are perfect for short trips and areas not covered by the U-Bahn.
  • Buses: Buses complement the train and tram network, serving areas where trains don’t reach.
Photo by Poudou99

Taking the U-Bahn in Munich

The U-Bahn is one of the easiest options for getting around in Munich, and you’ll likely be on it at least once during your visit. It has eight lines (U1-U8) covering the city center and nearby neighborhoods. Stations are marked with a blue “U” sign, and trains run roughly every 5 – 10 minutes during peak hours.

Photo by Poudou99

Taking the S-Bahn in Munich

The S-Bahn consists of eight main lines (S1-S8) that connect Munich’s city center to suburban areas and beyond. If you are going to the airport, you will be taking the S1 or S8 (check out our detailed guide on how to get to and from the Airport). Most S-Bahn lines pass through the main hub, Munich Hauptbahnhof (Central Station), making it a convenient transfer point.

Photo by Nino Barbieri

Taking the Tram in Munich

Trams are perfect for exploring Munich at street level. Notable lines include Tram 19, which passes through many historic areas. However, it’s also a popular option for commuters. They have onboard ticket machines, but these often accept only coins or contactless payment.

Photo by JerryLeeBY

Taking the Bus in Munich

Buses operate throughout the city and are especially useful for reaching less central locations. They are generally on time, and many stops have an electronic board which states when the next buses are scheduled to come.

Tickets and Fares

Understanding the ticketing system and pricing options is one of the most confusing aspects of Munich’s public transportation system. But the best thing is – your ticket is valid for all four types of transportation methods (U-bahn, S-bahn, tram, and bus). That means you don’t have to buy a new ticket if you have to transfer from the U-bahn to the bus, for example.

Here are the different types of tickets you can purchase:

  • Single Ticket (“Einzelfahrkarte”): For one-way travel.
  • Strip Ticket (“Streifenkarte”): A flexible option where you use strips based on travel zones.
  • Day Ticket (“Tageskarte”): Unlimited travel for one day. Available for individuals or groups.
  • Weekly or Monthly Pass (“IsarCard”): Perfect for longer stays or regular commutes.
  • Airport-City Day Ticket: Specifically for trips to and from Munich Airport, with unlimited travel in the city for one day.
  • CityTourCard: For use on public transport within the selected area of validity. It also offers discounts for more than 80 tourist attractions in Munich and the surrounding area.
  • München Card: Contains a day ticket for public transport within the selected area of the MVV network and discounts of up to 70% at numerous sights, attractions, tours, shopping, and gastronomy partners.
2025 Network Map for Zones M to 5

Zones and Pricing

When buying your ticket, you’ll likely need to select a zone. The core city area (Zone M) covers most major attractions that tourists will visit. Additional zones (Zones 1-6) cover areas further out, including the airport. Ticket prices depend on the number of zones you travel through, so check your route before purchasing a ticket.

You can find all current network maps online at MVV here.

Photo by Usien

How to Buy Tickets

Tickets can be purchased at:

  • Ticket machines (available in U-Bahn and S-Bahn stations)
  • On-board ticket machines available on some trams and buses
  • MVG customer service centers
  • The MVGO app, which also provides a digital ticket (which we highly recommend and will explain more about later)
  • Directly from bus drivers (cash only)

Ticket Validation

Unlike other big cities, there aren’t any turnstiles or barriers to enter trains or buses. To some visitors, this may make it seem like the public transportation in Munich is free! But don’t be fooled, traveling with a validated ticket in Munich is a big no-no.

Make sure to validate your ticket before starting your journey. Validation machines are located near station entrances or on trams and buses. Tickets purchased via the MVGO app are automatically valid upon purchase. Single Trip and Day tickets bought at the ticket machines and Airport-City Day tickets are validated at the time of purchase, so do not buy these tickets in advance.

While it’s rare, there are undercover employees who occasionally check for validated tickets on the trains, trams, and buses. If you are caught riding without a ticket, you’ll be issued a €60 fine and a lot of shameful looks from your fellow riders.

Using the MVGO App

As a tourist, the MVGO app is an essential tool for navigating Munich’s public transport system. Not only can you purchase tickets digitally and access them on your phone, but you can also plan your route and get real-time schedules of the different transportation options. And most importantly, you’ll also get live updates on delays and schedule changes. The app does have an English version, so it’s really easy to use!

Nightlines in Munich

Munich’s public transportation system generally comes to a halt at 1am. However, The Nightlines (Nachtlinien) ensure the city stays connected even after midnight:

Night Trams and Buses

These operate between 1:30 AM and 4:30 AM, covering key routes across the city. Look for route numbers beginning with “N”.

  • Trams: N17, N19, N20 and N27 run every hour.
  • Buses: N40 – N45, N72 and N74 and the less frequent lines N80/N81 run every hour every night of the week. On weekends they are supplemented by lines N71 – N79.
  • S-Bahn: On weekends, select S-Bahn lines run all night, connecting the city center to the suburbs.
  • U-Bahn: On weekends, the U-Bahn lines run every half an hour.

Popular Stations for Visitors and Nearby Attractions

Munich’s public transport stations are strategically located near many of the city’s key attractions. Here are some notable stations and what’s nearby:

  • Marienplatz (S-Bahn & U-Bahn): The heart of Munich. Nearby attractions include the Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall), Glockenspiel, Viktualienmarkt, and St. Peter’s Church.
  • Hauptbahnhof (S-Bahn & U-Bahn): Munich’s main train station. Close to the Kunstareal (art district), including the Alte Pinakothek and Pinakothek der Moderne.
  • Odeonsplatz (U-Bahn): Nearby are the Residenz, Feldherrnhalle, and the Hofgarten.
  • Theresienwiese (U-Bahn): The site of Oktoberfest and the Bavaria statue.
  • Sendlinger Tor (U-Bahn): Close to the Sendlinger Tor Gate and a vibrant shopping district.
  • Olympiazentrum (U-Bahn): Serves the Olympic Park, BMW Museum, and BMW Welt.
  • Schwabing-Freimann (U-Bahn): Access to the English Garden and the Monopteros viewpoint.
  • Karlsplatz/Stachus (S-Bahn & U-Bahn): A hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment, with easy access to historic Karlsplatz.
  • Dachau (S-Bahn): Connects to the Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site via a short bus ride.