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A Perfect Weekend in Munich: A 2-Day Itinerary

Experience the best of Munich in just 2 days!

Are you planning to take a weekend getaway to Munich? The third-largest city in Germany, the Bavarian capital, is renowned as a major technological hub in Europe and home to companies like BMW, Siemens and Allianz SE. Munich showcases a harmony of Bavarian history, culture, and nature. The historic landmarks in Munich are accompanied by plenty of greenery and recreational spaces. In this blog, we will share a 2-day itinerary to explore Munich’s must-visit places. Enjoy!

Day 1: Discovering Munich’s Historic and Nature

Morning: Visit Marienplatz and Frauenkirche

Marienplatz is one of the oldest city central squares in Munich. A trip to Munich would be incomplete without a visit to the iconic Marienplatz. So start your journey at Munich’s iconic central square. Admire the stunning architecture of the Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall) and catch the famed Glockenspiel performance, which occurs daily at 11 a.m. and 12 p.m., with an additional show at 5 p.m. during the summer months.

Scroll down the street after a filling breakfast from a nearby cafe and spend time admiring the beauty of the city, snap photos of the nearby Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall), and explore the square’s bustling atmosphere. Then head to the Frauenkirche (Cathedral of Our Dear Lady). Climb to the top of the south tower for panoramic views of Munich’s skyline framed by the Alps.

Midday: Enjoy Bavarian cuisines from the Viktualienmarkt

The Viktualienmarkt is an open-air city market in Munich, offering fresh produce, classic Bavarian delicacies, and more. You can head to Viktualienmarkt for a classic Bavarian-style lunch. Try Bavarian delicacies like Weisswurst (white sausage), pretzels, and fresh fruit. Enjoy your meal in the cozy beer garden if the weather allows.

Afternoon: Visit the Nymphenburg Palace and Gardens and Botanischer Garten München-Nymphenburg

Spend the afternoon exploring this baroque masterpiece, which was once the summer residence of the Bavarian royalty. Stroll through its sprawling gardens, admire the ornate fountains, and visit the Amalienburg, a rococo hunting lodge on the grounds.

Adjacent to the palace is the Botanischer Garten München-Nymphenburg. This botanical garden offers an oasis of tranquility and peace. You can read a book, get lost in thoughts or just wander and tour the garden to enjoy the collection of flora, greenhouses, and picturesque ponds of the garden.

Evening: Unwind in the Englischer Garten

After a long day of exploring Munich, you can relax and unwind in the English Garden. This garden is one of the world’s largest urban parks. Then, for dinner, head over to the Chinese Tower, a lively spot that serves traditional Bavarian food, and enjoy traditional Bavarian beer and indulge in a variety of Bavarian cuisines. When you feel like it, you can stroll along tree-lined paths, visit the Monopteros temple for sunset views, and watch surfers ride the Eisbach wave, and then head back to your hotel for a warm and comfortable sleep.

Day 2: Exploring Beyond Munich

Morning: Visit the Neuschwanstein Castle and Hohenschwangau Castle

The Neuschwanstein Castle, which is a 2-hour drive from Munich and is located in the Bavarian Alps of Germany. This castle is one of the most iconic and picturesque castles in the world. This fairytale palace inspired Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The entry to the castle is possible only via a guided tour.

Once you’ve enjoyed the Neuschwanstein Castle, you can visit the Hohenschwangau Castle, which is conveniently located nearby. This lesser-known gem was the childhood home of King Ludwig II. Take a guided tour to uncover its rich history and royal secrets.

Midday: Linderhof Palace

If time permits, head to Linderhof Palace. This small yet enchanting palace is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens, grottoes, and fountains.

Afternoon: Starnberger See (Lake Starnberg)

On your way back to Munich, stop by Lake Starnberg, just 40 minutes from the city. Enjoy a leisurely boat ride, walk along the lake’s shores, or simply relax with a stunning view of the Alps in the distance.

Evening: Unwind your two-day trip at the Theresienwiese

Return to Munich for a relaxing evening at Theresienwiese, the iconic Oktoberfest grounds. If you feel like it, you can visit Bavaria and St. Paul’s Church while you’re there. Theresienwiese hosts events like the Spring Festival and Winter Tollwood, but during the off-season, it’s a great spot for a peaceful walk. After your long weekend in Munich, you can unwind here and reflect on your trip.

SUMITH RAJ