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3 Days in Munich: An Itinerary for First-Time Visitors | Jetset Seeker

Written by Lauren | Nov 3, 2025 12:00:56 PM

Only have 3 days in Munich? Don't worry, that is plenty of time to experience a city that has shaped European history, from its royal Bavarian roots to its role in modern Germany’s cultural revival. Today, that history blends seamlessly with a city that feels both traditional and forward-looking. Munich is where centuries-old beer halls meet sleek design hotels, and where every cobblestone street seems to lead to a palace, park, or pastry shop (Konditorei as they are known in German).

In just a few days, you can explore the heart of the Old Town (Altstadt), admire royal treasures at the Munich Residenz, relax in the English Garden, and even squeeze in a day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle or Salzburg. I have designed this Munich itinerary to balance the city’s highlights with a few hidden gems, so you can experience the best of Bavaria without feeling like you are rushing from one attraction to the next.

This 3-day Munich itinerary follows a natural progression, starting in the heart of Munich's Altstadt before branching out to visit its palaces, parks, and a nearby day-trip destination. This Munich itinerary has been designed with first-time visitors in mind, balancing sightseeing and downtime, so you can actually enjoy the city rather than rush through it. Whether you prefer lingering over a stein of beer at Hofbrauhaus, exploring royal history at the Schloss Nymphenburg (Nymphenburg Palace), or enjoying a day trip, this guide will help you make the most of your 3 days in Munich.

Table of Contents:

  1. How to Use This Munich Itinerary
  2. Where to Stay for 3 Days in Munich
  3. Day 1: Exploring Munich's Old Town (Altstadt) 
  4. Day 2: Experience Munich's Royal Side
  5. Day 3: A Day Trip from Munich
  6. Alternative Options & Munich Itinerary Customizations
  7. Final Thoughts on 3 Days in Munich

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How to Use This Munich Itinerary 

This guide is designed for three full days in Munich, assuming you will arrive on the morning of Day 1 and depart on what would technically be Day 4. If your travel schedule is tighter and you are arriving or leaving within those three days, consider skipping the day trip at the end. You will still have plenty of time to see Munich’s highlights without feeling rushed. Plus, you can always tack on some of our alternative suggestions to customize the itinerary for your last day in Munich!

Breakfast in Munich

You will notice we do not include specific breakfast stops in this itinerary. We are not big breakfast people when we travel, so we tend to grab a pastry and coffee (or tea) from one of Munich’s many Bäckereien (bakeries) before starting the day. You will find them on almost every corner, and they are perfect a quick bite!

Downtime & Alternative Options

Each day included on this Munich itinerary balances sightseeing with downtime, because as much as Munich is a city full of landmarks, it is also a destination that is best enjoyed at a slower pace. Feel free to swap stops, linger where you like, or mix in a few of your own discoveries along the way. For more suggestions as to how to spend your 3 days in Munich, check out the Alternative Options & Munich Itinerary Customizations section of this blog. 

Closures & Public Holidays

Before you start planning your trip to Munich, it is worth noting that many shops, supermarkets, and restaurants in Munich close on Sundays and public holidays. While some cafés, restaurants, and stores inside the main train station stay open, other stores, banks, pharmacies, and smaller restaurants will be closed.

If your visit includes a Sunday, plan that day around outdoor activities or museum visits, rather than shopping.

Museum Closures 

Munich’s major museums, like the Alte Pinakothek, BMW Museum, and Deutsches Museum, are typically closed on Mondays, so adjust the order of your days accordingly if that affects your itinerary.

Public Holidays in Munich 2025/2026

Munich also observes a number of public holidays throughout the year, during which closures are similar to Sundays. If you are visiting in late December, expect reduced hours for many attractions and restaurants, though Christmas markets remain open and lively.

Public holidays in Munich include: January 1, January 6, Shrove Tuesday (February 17, 2026), Good Friday (April 3, 2026), Easter (April 5, 2026), Easter Monday (April 6, 2026), Labor Day (May 1), Ascension Day (May 14, 2026), Pentecost (May 24, 2026), Whit Monday (May 25, 2026), Corpus Christi (June 7, 2026), Assumption Day (August 15, 2026), German Unity Day (October 3), All Saints' Day (November 1), December 24-26, and December 31.

If you are traveling to Munich on one of these dates, double-check to ensure that the attraction(s) you intend to visit are open.  

Where to Stay for 3 Days in Munich

To make the most of your 3 days in Munich, base yourself in the Altstadt (Old Town). This neighborhood offers easy access to major sights, public transportation, and plenty of cafés and restaurants. If you are arriving by train, Munich Hauptbahnhof (Munich Hbf) is within walking distance of the Old Town, making this area a convenient option for short stays.

My two favorite hotels in Munich are Hotel Torbräu and Platzl Hotel - both combine Bavarian charm with central locations in the Altstadt. However, if you would prefer to be closer to the train station, Eden Hotel Wolff is also a great option. 

Wherever you stay in Munich, choose a spot that lets you walk or take a short U-Bahn (or S-Bahn) ride to Marienplatz, since that is where this itinerary begins.

Day 1: Exploring Munich's Old Town (Altstadt)

There is no better way to begin your 3 days in Munich than in the city's historic center and tourist core: the Altstadt, or Old Town. This is the most picturesque part of Munich, filled with royal grandeur and Bavarian charm. 

Marienplatz: The Center of Munich 

After you arrive and drop your luggage off at your hotel, start your day in Marienplatz, the main square. Marienplatz is home to the New Town Hall (Neues Rathaus), which is one of Munich's most recognizable sights.

The neo-Gothic New Town Hall dominates Marienplatz with its ornate stone façade, intricate arches, and hundreds of sculpted figures. Completed in 1905, it is still home to Munich’s city government, but visitors come to see its exterior architecture. While the New Town Hall does not offer much for tourists (although there is an observation tower), you should take this opportunity to see the famous Glockenspiel. 

The Glockenspiel: Munich's Most Charming Midday Ritual 

At the center of the New Town Hall’s façade is the famous Glockenspiel, which springs to life daily at 11:00 AM and again at 12:00 PM (with a third performance at 5:00 PM from March to October). The glockenspiel is effectively a giant cuckoo clock with 43 bells and 32 life-size figures that reenact stories from Munich’s history, including: a royal wedding, a jousting tournament, and a traditional dance celebrating the end of the plague. The show lasts about fifteen minutes, and while it always draws a crowd, it is worth pausing to watch. Grab a spot in Marienplatz or at a nearby café terrace; it is one of those charmingly old-world experiences that makes Munich truly unique.

Lunch at Viktualienmarkt: The Best Munich Market

After enjoying the Glockenspiel, head to the nearby Viktualienmarkt for lunch. Viktualienmarkt is one of Munich’s most beloved local institutions - part farmers’ market, part open-air food hall. Established in the early 1800s after the original market at Marienplatz outgrew the square, it has been feeding the city for more than two centuries. What started as a simple market for vegetables (“Viktualien” means “provisions” in old German) has evolved into a maze of more than a hundred stalls selling everything from artisan cheeses and local honey to exotic spices, flowers, and Bavarian specialties.

Viktualienmarkt is also the perfect spot to pause for a casual, quick lunch. Locals and visitors alike will browse the stalls, grab seats under the trees in the market’s central beer garden, and enjoy a picnic-style meal. Think: freshly baked pretzels, delicious sandwiches, cured meats, pickles, and a cold Bavarian beer from one of the rotating breweries on tap. For something sweet, look for the stands selling fruit tarts or strudel slices to enjoy as you wander.

Viktualienmarkt: Opening Hours & Additional Information 

If you visit on a Saturday morning, you will catch the market at its liveliest, when locals stock up for the weekend. Most of the market stalls are open from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Viktualienmarkt Munich is closed on Sundays, so plan your visit accordingly.

Frauenkirche: An Iconic Munich Landmark

After lunch, head towards Frauenkirche, another famous Munich landmark in the Altstadt. Officially known as the Cathedral of Our Dear Lady (Dom zu Unserer Lieben Frau), it was completed in the late 15th century and is best known for its distinctive twin towers capped with copper domes which are visible from almost anywhere in the city center. 

While the exterior of the Frauenkirche is typical of the late Gothic period (it was consecrated in 1494), the interior was largely rebuilt after World War II. While it still maintains some of its original features, the Frauenkirche suffered significant damage during the bombing campaigns of the Allied forces, including the collapse of the roof. Restoration work of the cathedral was not completed until 1994.

Frauenkirche Munich: A Brief Overview of Interior Highlights 

The interior is worth a visit (admission is free), although it can feel underwhelming in comparison to some of the more dramatic cathedrals in Germany and elsewhere. That being said, I do still recommend popping inside for a short visit. Highlights inside Frauenkirche include: the Devil's Footprint, the elaborate monument honoring the Wittelsbach dynasty (rulers of Bavaria) near the entrance, and original stained glass windows that survived the war.

The cathedral also holds deep spiritual significance. Before becoming Pope Benedict XVI, Joseph Ratzinger served as Archbishop of Munich and Freising, and he frequently celebrated Mass here. A bronze statue of him is located inside the cathedral, honoring his years of service to the city and the church.

If time allows, climb up the South Tower for panoramic views of Munich. On a clear day, you might even spot the Alps on the horizon!

Frauenkirche Munich: Visiting Hours & Additional Information 

While Frauenkirche Munich is free to visit, there is a small cost to visit the South Tower. Frauenkirche is open daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

The South Tower can be visited from Monday to Saturday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM and on Sundays and public holidays from 11:30 AM to 5:00 PM. The last ascent is at 4:30 PM. Tickets for the South Tower can be purchased on-site. 

Asamkirche: One of The Best Hidden Gems in Munich

Just a short walk away from the Frauenkirche Munich is Asamkirche (Asam Church), one of the best-kept secrets and easily one of the most beautiful hidden gems in Munich. This small Baroque church goes relatively unnoticed from the outside, blending in with nearby buildings along Sendlinger Strasse (Sendlinger Straße).

However, its interior is beautifully ornate and well worth a quick visit. Built in the 18th century by the Asam brothers as their private chapel, every inch of it dazzles with intricate stuccowork, gilding, and dramatic frescos. Despites its small size, the church feels more like a private art gallery or miniature palace than a traditional place of worship. As an added bonus, and unlike Frauenkirche Munich, the Asamkirche survived World War II largely unscathed.

Asamkirche makes for a short stop as you explore the Old Town, but serves as a great example of how venturing off the beaten tourist path can reveal an entirely different side of Munich, one that feels more intimate, authentic, and full of surprises. 

Asamkirche: Visiting Hours & Admission Information 

Admission to Asamkirche is free of charge. Mass is held on Sundays and public holidays at Asamkirche at 10:00 AM. The church is open to the public as follows:

From April to October:
  • Sunday through Thursday: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
  • Friday: 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM
From November to March:
  • Sunday through Thursday: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
  • Friday: 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM

Hofbräuhaus & Evening in the Altstadt 

End your first day in Munich at the legendary Hofbräuhaus, Munich’s most famous beer hall, a place that is equal parts history and spectacle. Founded in the 16th century by the Duke of Bavaria, it was once the royal brewery.

Yes, it is touristy, but that is part of the fun: long wooden tables, Oompah bands, and servers carrying more steins than seems humanly possible. A visit to Hofbräuhaus is a must, especially if you are visiting Munich outside of the Oktoberfest season, as it offers the closest experience you can get to Oktoberfest Munich without actually attending the festival yourself! 

Alternative Options to Hofbräuhaus for Dinner

If you would prefer something cozier or lowkey for dinner, Augustiner am Dom, Augustiner am Platzl, and Herrschaftszeiten - Das Paulaner im Tal offer a more local feel while serving equally good beer and hearty Bavarian fare (think: schnitzel, roast pork, and potato dumplings).

Post-Dinner Walk through the Altstadt 

After dinner, take a leisurely walk back through the Altstadt. Most places in Munich, including stores close at 8:00 PM. So, after dinner, the crowds thin out, and the Old Town feels quieter and more romantic. Detour through Max-Joseph-Platz to admire the Munich Residenz illuminated at night, or stroll along Kaufingerstraße for a bit of people-watching before calling it a night.

Day 2: Experience Munich's Royal Side

Your second day in Munich offers you the opportunity to dive deeper into the city's royal history and artistic spirit. Today is all about visiting two grand palaces and the English Garden, one of the largest urban parks in the world. 

Nymphenburg Palace: The Opulent Summer Palace

Begin your morning at Nymphenburg Palace (Schloss Nymphenburg), once the summer residence of Bavaria’s ruling Wittelsbach family. This sprawling Baroque palatial complex is surrounded by lakes, fountains, and manicured gardens that stretch for 445 acres (180 hectares). Inside, you will find gilded halls, beautiful frescoes, and rooms that reflect centuries of royal life. The Great Hall is especially breathtaking!

Aside from the palace, it is also well worth a walk through Schlosspark Nymphenburg, the palace park. The park is beautiful, especially during the warmer months. If you are visiting between April and mid-October, I highly recommend spending some extra time exploring the smaller palaces scattered throughout the park (there are four in total), like the Rococo-style Amalienburg, a small, but elaborate hunting lodge decorated in silver and blue. 

To learn more about the magnificent Nymphenburg Palace, check out our blog: The Ultimate Visitor's Guide to Munich Nymphenburg Palace

Nymphenburg Palace: Opening Hours & Ticketing Information

Munich Nymphenburg Palace is open daily, with the exception of January 1, Shrove Tuesday (February 17, 2026 & February 9, 2027), December 24-25, and December 31, annually. 

Opening hours vary based on the season, with reduced opening hours during the winter months (mid-October through March). The last admission to Munich Nymphenburg Palace is 30 minutes before closing. For the most up-to-date opening hours, please visit the Nymphenburg Palace website

Tickets for Nymphenburg Palace

I recommend purchasing your tickets for Munich Nymphenburg Palace online, in advance of your visit. While it is possible to purchase your admission tickets onsite, there are often long waits at the ticket office. Tickets for Munich Nymphenburg Palace are both date and time specific, so be sure to plan accordingly and arrive on time for your visit. To purchase your tickets for Munich Nymphenburg Palace, please visit the Nymphenburg Palace Ticket Shop website.

Audio Guides at Nymphenburg Palace

Audio guides are available to rent for a small fee and can be added at the time of booking. I found the audio guide to be very informational as there are not many written descriptions for the state rooms inside Nymphenburg Palace.

Guided Tours at Nymphenburg Palace

If you are interested in visiting Munich Nymphenburg Palace with a tour guide, that is also an option with our affiliate partner, GetYourGuide. The tour includes skip-the-line tickets to both the historic state rooms and the Marstallmuseum.  

Lunch at Nymphenburg Palace

After touring Munich Nymphenburg Palace and the incredible Schlosspark Nymphenburg, you will likely have worked up an appetite for lunch. There are two restaurants on the Nymphenburg Palace grounds: Schlosscafé im Palmenhaus and Schlosswirtschaft Schwaige. Schlosscafé im Palmenhaus is located in the park, while the Schlosswirtschaft Schwaige is located in the south wing of the palace. 

Munich Residenz: Fortress-Turned-City-Palace

After heading back towards central Munich and the Old Town, you will continue your second day in Munich at the Munich Residenz. The Munich Residenz (Munich Residence) was the former city palace of the Wittelsbach dynasty. What makes the Residenz especially fascinating is its evolution: originally a medieval fortress, it grew over the centuries into a complex of courtyards, galleries, and state apartments that showcase nearly every major architectural style.

Highlights inside the Munich Residenz include the Antiquarium, a magnificent Renaissance hall lined with classical statues and spectacular frescos; the Ancestral Gallery (Ahnengalerie) which acts as a family tree of the Wittelsbach family over the centuries; and, the Rich Rooms which really make the Munich Residenz feel like a true European palace. 

To learn more about the Munich Residenz, check out our blog post, Visit Munich Residenz: Tickets, Travel Tips & History

Munich Residenz Treasury (Schatzkammer) 

If time allows, I also suggest visiting the Treasury at the Munich Residenz as it is undoubtedly one of the palace's highlights. The Treasury houses crowns, ceremonial swords, religious relics, and impressive jewels.

Admission to the Treasury is not included with your admission to the Munich Residenz, unless you purchase a combo ticket for both attractions.  

Munich Residenz: Opening Hours & Ticketing Information 

The Munich Residenz is open daily. However, the palace does close to the public on on January 1st, Shrove Tuesday (Tuesday, February 17, 2026 and Tuesday, February 9, 2027), December 24-25, and December 31, annually.

From April through mid-October, the Munich Residenz is open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (last entry at 5:00 PM). From mid-October through March, the Munich Residenz is open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:00 PM). 

Tickets for the Munich Residenz

Tickets can be purchased both on-site and online, in advance of your visit. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially in the summer months, during Oktoberfest, and during the winter holidays when Christmas markets are in full swing and Munich is at its busiest. Tickets booked online do not have an assigned time slot and can be used at anytime on the day. To book tickets online, please visit the Munich Residenz Ticket Shop website. 

The English Garden: The Largest City Park in Germany

Spend the rest of afternoon and early evening unwinding in the English Garden (Englischer Garten), a short walk from the Munich Residenz and one of the largest urban parks in the world. As the largest city park in Germany, the English Garden is even bigger than Central Park in New York City, covering some 910 acres (370 hectares)! 

Start near the Monopteros, a small Greek-style temple on a hill that offers panoramic views of the city, then make your way toward the Chinese Tower Beer Garden (Biergarten am Chinesischen Turm). The beer garden is one of Munich’s most beloved spots, especially in the warmer months. Order a pretzel and a beer, listen to the live music, and take some time to simply enjoy the moment. Or, if you are ready for dinner, enjoy some chicken or traditional pork sausage! 

Chinese Tower Beer Garden Opening Hours

As you can likely imagine, since the beer garden is outdoors, its opening hours are largely dependent on the weather. In short, the beer garden welcomes guests when the weather is warm and dry, but closes with rainy conditions. The beer garden opens at 11:00 AM on weekdays and at 10:00 AM on weekends. 

In the event that the weather is too cold for their regular beer garden operations, the kiosk will remain open with a small selection of food and drinks available for takeaway. For more information and to view their live music schedule, please visit the Chinese Tower Beer Garden website.

Dinner: Explore Munich's Diverse Food Scene

For dinner, you can return to one of the beer halls mentioned earlier in this Munich itinerary. Beer halls are not just great for the atmosphere, but also for the food. Or, if you are in the mood for something different, the Old Town has plenty of restaurants that highlight Munich’s international side, a reflection of the city’s diversity and global character.

Try Little London Bar & Grill for steak and craft cocktails, Le Stollberg for refined French cuisine, or La Tavernetta if you are in search of comforting Italian classics. Irmi, near Karlsplatz, offers modern takes on German cuisine in a relaxed setting, while Royal India serves some of the best curries in the city center. Craving pizza? Check out one of my favorite restaurants in Munich: 60 Seconds to Napoli, located a short walk from Marienplatz. Whether you end your night with schnitzel, curry, or pizza, Munich’s food scene makes it hard to have a bad meal.

Day 3: A Day Trip from Munich

Your final day in Munich is the perfect opportunity to explore outside of the city limits. Bavaria's countryside and neighboring Austria are filled with easy-to-reach destinations that offer completely different atmospheres than what you will find in Munich. Whether you are looking for a fairytale castle, beautiful landscapes, or a charming town, there are plenty of options to choose from for a day trip from Munich. With that being said, I am going to offer two recommendations: Neuschwanstein Castle and Salzburg, Austria. 

Option #1: Neuschwanstein Castle

Few sights are as instantly recognizable or as breathtaking as Neuschwanstein Castle. Perched high above the small village of Hohenschwangau, this 19th-century masterpiece built by King Ludwig II is rumored to have inspired the castle in Walt Disney's animated Cinderella

Getting to Neuschwanstein Castle from Munich takes about two hours by train and bus, or roughly 90 minutes by car. Most visitors combine Neuschwanstein Castle with a stop at Hohenschwangau Castle, the king's childhood home that is also in town. Even if you do not tour the interiors (I strongly encourage you to visit—these interiors are truly unforgettable, and experiencing them in person is the only way to fully appreciate their splendor, as photography is not permitted inside), the surrounding scenery is worth the trip alone. 😍

For the best vantage point, walk to Marienbrücke (Mary's Bridge), a short but steep climb that rewards you with the iconic postcard-worthy view of Neuschwanstein Castle. 

Tours & Ticketing Information for Neuschwanstein Castle

Visits inside Neuschwanstein Castle, and neighboring Hohenschwangau Castle, are by guided tour only. Tours are available in English and German. I highly suggest that you book your tickets online, in advance of your visit, as they do sell out since tour space is limited. Tickets for both Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau Castles can be booked on the Hohenschwangau Ticket Center website.

Tickets for Neuschwanstein & Hohenschwangau Castles

If you are interested in visiting both castles, I recommend that you book the Kings Ticket, which includes guided tours of both castles. Since the tickets (including the Kings Ticket) are for specific dates and times, make sure to schedule your guided tours at each castle at least 2.5 hours apart to allow ample time for travel between the two castles. The tours of each castle lasts around 30 minutes.

Transportation to Neuschwanstein Castle from Munich

To travel between Neuschwanstein Castle on a day trip from Munich you really have three options in terms of transportation: driving, public transportation, or a guided tour from Munich. A guided tour is the easiest option and we will dive into that option further in the section below. 

Driving

Driving from Munich to the village of Hohenschwangau is the quickest option, although you will need a rental car. Parking is available, for a fee (€12 for the day), in the village and from there you can walk, take a shuttle bus, or opt to take a horse-drawn carriage to Neuschwanstein Castle. Hohenschwangau is easily accessed on foot. For additional information on driving and parking in Hohenschwangau, please visit the Hohenschwangau website.

Public Transportation to Neuschwanstein Castle

Unfortunately, on my day trip from Munich to Neuschwanstein Castle, the morning train was cancelled, so I ended up taking a FlixBus there and the train back to Munich in the evening. Fortunately for you, I have all of the insight on both forms of public transportation from Munich to Neuschwanstein Castle that I can now share with you! 

  • Trains from Munich: The most common route is a DB (Deutsche Bahn) train from Munich Hauptbahnhof (Munich Hbf/Main Station) to Füssen, the closest town to the castles. The journey takes about 2 hours, with departures roughly every hour. Once you arrive in Füssen, you will have to transfer to Bus 78, which runs directly to the Hohenschwangau/ Neuschwanstein Tourist Information Center. The bus ride takes less than 10 minutes and you can purchase your bus tickets directly from the bus driver (cash only). From Hohenschwangau, you can either walk, take a shuttle bus, or take a horse-drawn carriage to Neuschwanstein Castle. Train tickets should be booked directly through Deutsche Bahn, either online through the Deutsche Bahn website or at the train station.
  • Buses from Munich: Alternatively, you can book a FlixBus from Munich’s central bus station (ZOB Munich) directly to Schwangau. The trip takes about 2 hours and drops you off near the Hohenschwangau/Neuschwanstein Tourist Information Center, where you can either walk, take a shuttle bus, or take a horse-drawn carriage to Neuschwanstein Castle. You should reserve bus tickets in advance through the FlixBus website. In my opinion, the FlixBus was the easiest transportation option from Munich! 
Guided Tours to Neuschwanstein Castle 

Guided tours to Neuschwanstein Castle from Munich make the logistics simple, including transportation and entry tickets. While they are full-day excursions, they are the most stress-free way to step into what feels like a fairytale. For transparency, I personally chose to take public transportation from Munich, while several of my friends opted for a guided tour and spoke very highly of their experience. The highest rated guided tour to Neuschwanstein Castle that includes admission to the castle, from our affiliate partner GetYourGuide, is listed below. 

Option #2: Salzburg, Austria

If you would rather spend your last day soaking up culture than seeing castles, head to Salzburg, just across the Austrian border and about 1.5–2 hours from Munich by train. Famous for being the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and the backdrop for The Sound of Music, Salzburg blends musical heritage with baroque architecture and cozy Alpine charm.

Start your day exploring the Altstadt (Old Town), where cobblestone lanes wind between pastel-hued buildings and ornate churches. See Mozart’s Birthplace, check out Salzburg Cathedral (Salzburger Dom), and wander through Getreidegasse, one of Europe’s prettiest shopping streets, lined with wrought-iron signs and quaint cafés.

For the best views of the city, take the funicular up to Hohensalzburg Fortress, one of the largest medieval castles in Europe. From the ramparts, the views stretch across the Salzach River to the Alps, a fitting finale to your Bavarian getaway.

For more information about Salzburg and suggestions as to how to plan your time in Salzburg, check out our Salzburg Travel Guide

Transportation from Munich to Salzburg 

The easiest and most popular way to reach Salzburg from Munich is by train, which makes this day trip incredibly straightfoward. Trains depart regularly from Munich Hauptbahnhof (Munich Hbf/Main Station) and take around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on whether you choose a regional or high-speed train option.

Once you arrive in Salzburg, the main train station (Salzburg Hauptbahnhof) is just a 15-minute walk or short bus ride from the Old Town, so you can start exploring right away!

Bayern Ticket 

If you are taking a day trip from Munich to Salzburg, the Bayern Ticket is a great option. The Bayern Ticket covers unlimited regional train travel for one day across Bavaria, including cross-border trips to Salzburg. It is valid after 9:00 AM on weekdays (and all day on weekends and public holidays) and can be purchased at the station or through the Deutsche Bahn website.

Alternative Options & Munich Itinerary Customizations 

Every traveler experiences Munich differently. Some come for the culture and history, while others for the beer and festivities. Whether you want to swap a day trip for more time in the city or tailor your itinerary around a special interest, here are a few great alternatives to consider that will help make your 3 days in Munich your own.

BMW Museum & BMW Welt

Car enthusiasts should not miss the BMW Museum and BMW Welt, located near Olympiapark in northern Munich. The museum traces over a century of automotive design, featuring vintage models, concept cars, and exhibits about innovation and engineering.

Next door, BMW Welt functions as a modern showroom where you can see the latest vehicles up close. BMW Welt is free to enter and surprisingly fun even if you are not a car buff! 

Tickets for the BMW Museum can be purchased both online, via the BMW Museum website, and in-person. If you elect to purchase your tickets at the museum when you arrive, keep in mind that cash payment is not accepted. The BMW Museum is closed on Mondays. 

The Alte Pinakothek & Munich’s Art Museums

If you love art, dedicate a day to Munich’s Kunstareal district, home to several world-class galleries. The Alte Pinakothek is one of the oldest art museums in the world, housing masterpieces by Dürer, Rubens, Rembrandt, and da Vinci.

Nearby, the Neue Pinakothek (currently closed for renovation and reopening in 2030) and Pinakothek der Moderne offer an incredible contrast of modern and contemporary works. You could easily spend half a day exploring the area before relaxing at one of the nearby cafés. 

The Alte Pinakothek and Pinakothek der Moderne are both closed on Mondays. Tickets can be purchased both online, or in-person at the museums. 

Oktoberfest Munich

If you are visiting during Oktoberfest (usually held from late September to early October), your itinerary will look a little different, and that is perfectly fine! The festival grounds at Theresienwiese are massive, with beer tents, carnival rides, and endless Bavarian food.

You could easily spend all 3 days in Munich here if Oktoberfest is your main reason for visiting. That said, I found that two days were plenty for enjoying the festivities, leaving me with one day for sightseeing around Munich.

If you are interested in attending Oktoberfest Munich, check out our other blogs: Ultimate Guide to Oktoberfest Munich and Oktoberfest Outfits - What to Wear to Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany

Deutsches Museum

If you love science and innovation, spend a few hours at the Deutsches Museum. It is one of the largest science and technology museums in the world, with interactive exhibits covering everything from astronomy and aviation to robotics and renewable energy. It is a perfect rainy-day option and a great stop for families.

Tickets for the Deutsches Museum can be purchased both online and in-person at the museum. The Deutsches Museum is closed on Mondays and public holidays. 

Final Thoughts on 3 Days in Munich

Three days in Munich is enough time to get a real sense of the city, see some of the city's best landmarks, and get a taste of the local culture. Between the palaces, museums, and beer halls, Munich feels effortlessly balanced: historic without being stuck in the past, and lively without ever feeling too chaotic.

If you are visiting as part of a longer Central Europe trip, Munich makes a perfect companion to nearby Vienna, Salzburg, or Budapest - cities that share cultural roots, yet each offer their own distinctive charm.

Whether you follow this itinerary exactly or mix in a few of your own stops, 3 days in Munich is enough to leave you wanting to come back, maybe next time for Oktoberfest, Christmas markets, or just another round at your new favorite beer hall.

Need more assistance in planning your 3 days in Munich? Be sure to check out our Munich Travel Guide for restaurant recommendations, public transportation information, and even more things to do in Munich! 

Have you been to Munich? Share your favorite experiences or tips in the comments below. 👇 We would love to hear how you would make this itinerary your own!