If you plan a 3-day trip to Munich, you’re in for a treat! Munich is a perfect mix of old-world charm and modern attractions, offering travelers diverse experiences. From stunning architecture and art galleries to world-class dining and shopping, there are numerous places to visit in Munich that offer something for everyone.
Here’s a perfect itinerary to help you make the most of your trip, including some great restaurant recommendations!
Day 1: Explore Some of the Best Places to Visit in Munich: The Historic Old Town
Begin your trip by exploring the historic Old Town of Munich. The attractions can be conveniently visited one after another in a perfect sequence.
Here are the top attractions to visit ⬇️
Breakfast at Schneider Bräuhaus München
Start your first day with a traditional Bavarian breakfast at the Schneider Bräuhaus MĂĽnchen, one of Munich’s oldest and most popular breweries and places to visit in Munich. Of course, instead of that, you can also see the famous Hofbräuhaus, which is not far from there.
All German clichés are served there, and the program is very tourist-oriented, so you will meet tourists there almost exclusively. But if you prefer an authentic brewery, the Schneider Bräuhaus is the better choice in the city center. Ideally, you should finish breakfast before 11 a.m. as the next highlight awaits you at Marienplatz.
Location on Google Maps:
Marienplatz Glockenspiel tower
Marienplatz is among the must-see places to visit in Munich, where you can admire the impressive architecture of the New Town Hall and watch the famous Glockenspiel clock tower chime at 11 a.m. This iconic square is in the city’s heart, surrounded by beautiful architecture and historic landmarks.
Here are some of the top attractions to see at the Marienplatz:
- Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall): This impressive Gothic building houses the city government and offers stunning views of the city from its tower.
- Mariensäule (Mary’s Column): This column is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and is a popular spot for taking photos.
- Glockenspiel: Located in front of the Neues Rathaus, this famous clock tower features a 15-minute show with moving figures and music that is not to be missed.
Location on Google Maps:
St. Peter’s Church Tower: Awesome view from above in the historic center
Don’t miss out on the chance to climb the tower of St. Peter’s Church! Known locally as “Alter Peter,” this historic church offers breathtaking city views from 56 meters. It is one of the best places to visit in Munich.
The tower climb is an experience in its own right, with narrow staircases and plenty of stops to catch your breath. But once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Munich’s historic Old Town, including landmarks like the Frauenkirche and the Town Hall.
The best time to visit is on a clear day when you can see the Alps in the distance. Be sure to bring your camera, as the 360° city view from the top is truly unforgettable.
The tower climb is not recommended for those with mobility issues, as the staircases can be steep and narrow. However, if you’re up for the challenge, it’s a must-do activity for anyone visiting Munich. However, you should also be free from vertigo.
Secret tip: Tourists often overlook this attraction, an absolute Instagram spot for your best Munich selfie.
Opening times (2025): See actual opening times on St. Peter website
- Summer (April – October): Daily | 9:00 a.m. – 7:30 p.m. (last admission at 7:00 p.m.)
- Winter (November – March): Monday to Friday | 9:00 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. (last admission at 6:00 p.m.); Saturday, Sunday, and public holidays | 9:00 a.m. – 7:30 p.m. (last admission at 7:00 p.m.)
Entry fee (2025):
- Adults: 5,00 €
- Reduced admission: 3,00 €
- Students (6-18 years): 2,00 €
- Children under 6 years: free
Location on Google Maps:
Experience Munich’s Food Scene at Viktualienmarkt
Take a stroll through Viktualienmarkt, a lively open-air market where you can sample traditional Bavarian snacks, enjoy a beer in the small beer garden, shop for souvenirs, and soak up the local atmosphere.
Located from the Viktualienmarkt in Munich, you can enjoy an excellent Italian espresso at Eataly or other delicious Italian. You can also savor fine Belgian chocolate at the Beluga chocolate shop next to Viktualienmarkt and other high-quality products.
If you’re hungry, you can head to the Hacker Pschorr brewery next to Eataly, a big food hall nearby. This brewery offers traditional Bavarian cuisine and brews high-quality beer.
Location on Google Maps:
Baroque Beauty: Discover the Ornate Asam Church in Munich
Looking for a hidden gem in Munich? Look no further than the Asamkirche, a stunning baroque church tucked away in a shopping alley just a short walk from Marienplatz. While it may be smaller than some of Munich’s more well-known churches, the Asamkirche is a true masterpiece of Bavarian rococo architecture.
Built-in the 18th century by brothers and artists Cosmas Damian and Egid Quirin Asam, the church is an ornate display of intricate frescoes, sculptures, and stucco work. As you step inside, you’ll be transported to another world, surrounded by the stunning beauty and detail of the church’s interior.
Don’t forget to look up at the ceiling to see the dazzling frescoes painted by Cosmas Damian Asam himself. And be sure to take your time exploring the many details of the church, from the ornate pulpit to the golden altar.
Whether you’re a baroque architecture and art fan or simply looking for a unique and off-the-beaten-path attraction in Munich, the Asamkirche is not to be missed. Add it to your Munich itinerary for a truly unforgettable experience.
Opening times (2025):
- Monday – Thursday & Sunday 8 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. (closed for a visit during worship)
- Saturday 12 p.m. 5:30 p.m.
Entry fee: free
Location on Google Maps:
Discover the Beauty of Odeonsplatz & Hofgarten in Munich
The Odeonsplatz is a bustling square in the heart of Munich, surrounded by historic buildings such as the Theatinerkirche and the Feldherrnhalle. It’s a great place, especially on a sunny day. Stroll through the picturesque Hofgarten, a lush green space with fountains, statues, and flower beds. It’s a great place to relax, people-watch, or picnic on a sunny day.
Don’t forget to bring your camera – the Odeonsplatz and Hofgarten are both incredibly photogenic and offer plenty of Instagram-worthy photo opportunities.
Location on Google Maps:
Day 2: Get a Taste of Munich’s Art and Culture Scene
On your second day, explore Munich’s art and culture scene. Here are some top attractions to visit:
Deutsches Museum: Explore the World’s Largest Museum of Science and Technology
The German Museum in Munich is a must-visit for science and technology enthusiasts. With over 80,000 square meters of exhibition space and more than 28,000 exhibited objects, this is the world’s largest science and technology museum.
Starting in April 2023, visitors can enjoy the newly renovated and expanded aerospace exhibit, which includes the history of aviation, space travel, and the latest research in these fields.
In addition, the museum features exhibits on a wide range of topics, from physics and energy to communication and music. Highlights include the planetarium, where visitors can experience a virtual tour of the universe, and the replica coal mine, where you can learn about the history of mining and experience the underground conditions.
If you have the time and energy, consider spending a full day at the museum to fully explore all the exhibits. Alternatively, prioritize your visit and plan to spend at least a few hours exploring your favorite topics. With so much to see and learn, the German Museum will surely be a highlight of your Munich visit.
Location on Google Maps:
Discover Bavarian Royalty: Explore the Residenz Museum
If you have some spare time left at the end of your day trip to Munich, visiting the Residenz Museum is worth considering. Located in the city center near the Odeonsplatz, it is one of Europe’s largest and most impressive palace complexes.
With over 130 rooms to explore, you can immerse yourself in Bavarian history and culture and admire the stunning art and architecture on display. Some museum highlights include the Antiquarium, the largest Renaissance hall north of the Alps, the magnificent Court Chapel, and the opulent Cuvilliés Theatre.
Allow yourself at least a couple of hours to fully appreciate the beauty of this impressive palace. If you want to make the most of your visit, consider taking a guided tour, which will provide fascinating insights into the history and significance of this cultural gem.
Opening times (2025): See the actual opening times on their website
- 1st April to 19th October: Daily 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. (last admission at 5 p.m.)
- 20th October to 31st March: Daily 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. (last admission at 4 p.m.)
Entry fee (2025): Buy the tickets here
- Residenzmuseum €10 regular / €9 reduced
- Treasury €10 regular / €9 reduced
- Combined ticket Residenzmuseum & Treasury €15 regular / €13 reduced
- Cuvilliés-Theater: €5 regular / €4 reduced
- Complete ticket Residenzmuseum & Treasury & Cuvilliés-Theater €20 regular / €16 reduced
Location on Google Maps:
Escape to Nature: Discover Munich’s Green Oasis at the Englischer Garten
Take a break from the hustle and bustle and head to the Englischer Garten, Munich’s largest public park, where you can relax and enjoy the beautiful greenery.
The English Garden is one of the largest urban parks in the world and a must-visit destination in Munich. With over 78 kilometers of paths and trails, it offers something for everyone, from peaceful walks to lively sports activities.
In the south part of the park, you can watch surfers catch the waves on the Eisbach River.
While exploring the park, make sure to visit the famous Chinese Tower. This 25-meter-tall tower is a great spot to take in the views of the park and the city. It’s also home to a traditional beer garden where you can enjoy a refreshing beer (but I don’t recommend the food there because it’s very touristy and overpriced). Also, for a nostalgic ride, head over to the historic children’s carousel near the Chinese Tower.
If you want a more upscale dining experience, we recommend visiting Seehaus in Englischer Garten. Located on the shore of Kleinhesseloher See, this restaurant offers beautiful views and delicious cuisine. The terrace is perfect for enjoying a sunny day and sipping a cold drink.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful walk or a lively picnic with friends, the English Garden is a must-visit destination in Munich if you never visited Munich before.
Entry to the Englischer Garten at the Eisbach river on Google Maps:
Day 3: Nymphenburg Palace, Pinakothek der Moderne, Olympiapark, BMW-Welt
On the last day of your 3-day Munich adventure, you’ll explore some of the city’s cultural highlights and modern marvels.
Nymphenburg Palace: A Majestic Masterpiece in the Heart of Munich
Start your day by visiting the stunning Nymphenburg Palace, a Baroque-style palace surrounded by beautiful gardens. The palace was the summer residence of Bavarian rulers and is now a museum. Explore the opulent rooms and halls of the castle and immerse yourself in the history of Bavaria.
If you decide to spend a whole day in the beautiful Nymphenburg garden, don’t miss our comprehensive blog post.
Location on Google Maps:
Bask in the Beauty of Nature: Discover Munich’s Botanical Garden
After you visit the palace, head to the nearby Botanical Garden. This 52-hectare garden features over 14,000 species of plants worldwide, making it a paradise for nature lovers.
The garden is divided into different sections, including alpine and medicinal plants and a greenhouse with tropical plants.
Entrance to the Botanical Garden costs €6 for adults, while children under 18 can enter for free. The garden is open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. from April to October and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. from November to March.
Take a stroll through the garden and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. It’s a great way to spend a few hours, especially if you need a break from the busy city.
Location on Google Maps:
Metzgerwirt Biergarten
After visiting Nymphenburg Palace and the Botanical Garden, head to Metzgerwirt Biergarten for a traditional Bavarian lunch. This cozy biergarten is located just a short walk from the palace, near the next Tram-station and offers a variety of delicious Bavarian dishes and refreshing drinks.
Location on Google Maps:
Discover the Best of Munich at Olympiapark
From the Beergarden, take the Tram rail to Olympiapark, the site of the 1972 Summer Olympics. Olympiapark in Munich is a must-visit destination for travelers looking to experience the city’s sporting and cultural heritage. The park boasts an impressive array of attractions, including the Olympic Tower (possibly closed until 2027), the Olympic Stadium, and the Olympic Swimming Hall.
Visitors can enjoy stunning city views from the top of the tower, catch a game or concert at the stadium, or dip in the impressive swimming hall pool.
For those looking to extend their stay at the park, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy. Take a walk around the park’s beautiful lake, rent a bike, and explore the surrounding area, or simply relax and soak up the atmosphere.
If you’re not interested in visiting the nearby BMW Welt, you can easily spend the rest of the day exploring Olympiapark’s offerings.
After exploring the Olympic Park, walk up the hill towards the Olympiaberg before sunset. This hill offers a stunning panoramic view of the city, making it the perfect spot to watch the sunset and take in the beauty of Munich. You can pack a picnic or grab a drink from one of the nearby cafes and enjoy the view. It’s a great way to unwind and end your day in Munich on a high note with a romantic touch!
Admission to the park is free, but some attractions, such as the tower and swimming hall, have an admission fee. The park is open daily from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., and tickets can be purchased on-site or online in advance. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience this iconic Munich landmark and all it offers. And suppose you’re lucky enough to be there in the summer. In that case, the Olympiapark provides free concerts at Theatron, right next to the Olympic Lake. You can check the schedule here.
Location on Google Maps:
Bonus: Experience the Ultimate BMW Adventure in BMW Museum & BMW-World
Bonus for car enthusiasts: End your day not far from Olympiapark at the BMW-World, a stunning architectural marvel and museum showcasing BMW’s history and evolution. The BMW Welt and the museum are impressive experiences that any car enthusiast should not miss while in Munich.
It is open Tuesday through Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Entry to the BMW-Welt is free. The museum’s entrance fee is €12 per adult, with discounts available for students, seniors, and children. Tickets can be purchased online up to two weeks in advance here.
Inside, you’ll find an array of BMW cars on display, along with interactive exhibits, simulators, and a guided tour. If you’re a car enthusiast, add the BMW Welt to your Munich itinerary for a memorable visit.
Location on Google Maps:
With these fantastic cultural and modern highlights, your 3-day adventure in Munich will be unforgettable!
Our conclusion
Munich truly has it all. This dynamic city has something for everyone, from rich history and culture to stunning natural beauty and modern marvels. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking to relax and enjoy some beautiful scenery, there are many places to visit in Munich for a three-day trip.
Rathaus-Glockenspiel is a beautiful Historical landmark in Munich, Germany. It is very famous for life-size characters, and historical events, and best for tourists. I have decided I will enjoy christmas holiday vacation in this city.