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Are you planning a trip to Munich and wondering where to stay? You’re in the right place! What I love most about Munich is it has so much to offer! You can enjoy a beer in one of Munich’s beer halls, explore the rich history and architecture of Old Town, and take advantage of its convenient location as a base for day trips.
Munich, the capital of Bavaria, is famous for Oktoberfest, beer gardens, and its role as a gateway to the Alps. Munich is the 3rd largest city in Germany and was heavily bombed during WWII, but a lot of the architecture has been restored.
I visited Munich during the magical Christmas market season and left already wanting to go back!
This guide covers the best areas and accommodations for where to stay in Munich with options for every traveler and budget. We will explore accommodations from luxury to family-friendly and budget-friendly stays. Plus, I’ll share where we stayed and why I’d recommend it!
As a fellow traveler, I love researching the best places to stay, and I only recommend hotels I’d seriously consider myself.
Read on for the full guide to where to stay in Munich.
If you’re short on time, check out my Top Recommendations at a Glance:
Best Places to Stay at a Glance
📍5 Star Luxury – Panoramic City Views, rooftop pool in Old Town
📍Near Train Station – Where I stayed, close to station and sights
📍Family Friendly Hotel – Located near old town & English Garden
📍Apartment Style – Kitchenettes, near sites and Octoberfest
📍Budget Friendly – Central location and budget friendly with WiFi & AC
🎄Near Christmas Markets – traditional hotel near main Christmas market
Munich’s Best Neighborhoods at a Glance
Munich has many diverse neighborhoods for every traveler. Whether you’re here for history, nightlife, culture, or Christmas markets, we can find the perfect base for your trip!
- Altstadt (Old Town): The historic heart, filled with landmarks, Marienplatz, and Christmas market magic.
- Maxvorstadt: Cultural hub with museums, a student vibe, and nightlife.
- Ludwigsvorstadt: Convenient base by the train station and home of Oktoberfest.
- Isarvorstadt: Trendy and artsy, with nightlife and riverside walks.
- Schwabing: Bohemian charm, boutique cafés, and access to the northern Englischer Garten.
- Lehel: Family-friendly, with quiet streets and the southern entrance to the Englischer Garten.
- Haidhausen: Munich’s “French Quarter,” with small town charm, cozy streets, and local nightlife.
- Nymphenburg: Tranquil and centered around the royal palace and park
Where to Stay in Munich By Neighborhood
Let’s dive into the details for where to stay in Munich and the hotel recommendations for every budget.
💡 Pro Tip: Book early for the best prices and availability, especially if visiting during Octoberfest or Christmas markets. Many hotels take reservations up to a year in advance!
Altstadt (Old Town): Best for First Time Visitors
If you want to be right in the middle of it all, Altstadt is Munich’s historic core and the perfect place to stay for first-time visitors.
The neighborhood is extremely walkable, with excellent public transport connections for exploring the rest of the city. While hotels here are often pricier, the location makes it worth it for travelers who want history and convenience right at their doorstep.
Top 3 Things to Do in Altstadt
- Marienplatz & Glockenspiel – Watch the famous clock show at the Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall) and explore Munich’s central square
- Frauenkirche – Visit the city’s iconic twin-towered cathedral and climb the tower for panoramic views.
- St. Peter’s Church (Alter Peter) – Munich’s oldest parish church with one of the best viewpoints over Old Town.
During the holiday season, Marienplatz transforms into Munich’s main Christmas market. This market was my first ever introduction to Germany’s magical Christmas markets and it did not disappoint!
Best for: first-time visitors, history buffs, Christmas market lovers, and anyone who wants to stay in the heart of Munich.
Best Hotels in Alstadt
Budget ($): Premier Inn Munich – Air conditioning, private bathrooms, free WiFI and a breakfast option. Good access to public transport and about a 10 minute walk to Marienplatz.
Mid-Range ($$): Hotel MIO by AMANO – A central hotel located a short walk from Marienplatz, featuring air-conditioning, private bathrooms with free toiletries, and an excellent breakfast buffet.
Luxury ($$$): Mandarin Oriental Hotel, – 5-star hotel offering luxury rooms, a rooftop pool, and panoramic city views, located near Marienplatz. An airport shuttle and family rooms are available.
Maxvorstadt – Best For Museums, Cafés & Nightlife
For a more laid-back stay, Maxvorstadt combines culture, cafés, and a student vibe thanks to its nearby universities. It’s also one of Munich’s best areas for nightlife.
Located just a short walk or tram ride from Altstadt, this neighborhood offers easy access to the city center while giving you a more local, laid back atmosphere.
Top 3 Things to Do in Maxvorstadt
- Nightlife – Discover stylish bars, pubs, and music spots
- Museum Quarter – Explore the world class museums including Alte Pinakothek, Neue Pinakothek, Pinakothek der Moderne, and the Lenbachhaus.
- University Quarter – Soak up the student vibes with cafés, bookshops, and local hangouts.
Best for: Art fans, students, and younger travelers who want lively nightlife alongside museums and cafés, more affordable than Old Town
Best Hotels in Maxvorstadt
Budget ($): KING’s Hotel Center – We stayed here and loved our experience! Conveniently located near Munich Main Station (Hauptbahnhof), it makes exploring the city and taking day trips easy. Marienplatz is about a 20-minute walk, or you can hop on the metro right at the main trail station.
Mid-Range ($$): Hotel Europa – Air Conditioning, garden terrace, inner courtyard, and sound proof rooms. 10 Minutes to main train station. Meals are highly recommended here!
Luxury ($$$): Rocco Forte The Charles Hotel – This hotel has a spa and an indoor pool. It overlooks the old Botanical Garden on a peaceful street. Rooms are sound-proofed and the hotel has a private garage.
Ludwigsvorstadt: Best For Convenience & Oktoberfest
If convenience is your priority, Ludwigsvorstadt is one of the best places to stay in Munich. Located just south of the main train station (Hauptbahnhof), it’s a practical choice for travelers arriving by rail or planning day trips to nearby Bavarian towns.
Top 3 Things to Do in Maxvorstadt
- Theresienwiese – Oktoberfest, the world’s largest beer festival
- Central Station (Hauptbahnhof) – Use this hub for easy day trips to Neuschwanstein Castle, Salzburg, and beyond.
- Diverse Dining – offers plenty of diverse restaurants and bars
Best for: budget travelers, rail travelers, Oktoberfest visitors, and anyone who wants a convenient base close to Munich’s main train station
Best Hotels in Ludwigsvorstadt
Budget ($): Ruby Rosi Hotel Munich – This hotel has a sun terrace, bar, elevator and a coffee shop. It’s a 5 minute walk to the main train station. Asamkirche, Frauenkirche, and Marienplatz are all 12 minutes walk away. Parking is available.
Mid-Range ($$): KOOS Hotel & Apartments – City Aparthotel – This hotel offers air conditioning, kitchenettes, sound-proof rooms, and a washing machine. The Oktoberfest beer festival is 2 train stops or a 20-minute walk away, and Frauenkirche Church is just a 15-minute walk from the hotel.
Luxury ($$$): Sofitel Munich Bayerpost – all rooms have air conditioning, European king-size bed, flat-screen TV and an exclusive Nespresso© coffee maker. This hotel is located on the former site of the Royal Bavarian Post Office.
Isarvorstadt: Trendy Streets & Riverside Vibes
Technically part of the larger Ludwigsvorstadt, Isarvorstadt has its own distinct character that sets it apart. Explore Munich’s trendiest quarters filled with stylish cafés, independent shops, LGBTQ+ friendly bars, and vibrant nightlife.
Top 3 Things to Do in Isarvorstadt
- Staatstheater – catch a performance at this beloved theater, known for opera, musicals, and ballet.
- Isar River Walks – Stroll along the riverside paths for a scenic escape from the city streets.
- Deutsches Museum – Visit one of the world’s largest science and technology museums.
Best for: nightlife lovers, LGBTQ+ travelers, and those seeking a local, trendy vibe
Best Hotels in Isarvorstadt
Budget ($): Living Hotel Prinzessin Elisabeth – just steps from the River Isar and 0.6 miles from the Octoberfest grounds, this hotel offers standard hotel rooms and apartments with a kitchenette and a safety deposit box. A 24 hour gym and sauna, and parking are also available.
Mid-Range ($$): Hotel Deutsche Eiche – A boutique hotel with spacious rooms and heated floors. Breakfast Buffet is provided. 10 minutes to Marienplatz and great access to public transportation.
Luxury ($$$): Rocco Forte The Charles Hotel – This hotel has a spa and an indoor pool. It overlooks the old Botanical Garden on a peaceful street. Rooms are sound-proofed and the hotel has a private garage. While technically in Maxvorstadt, it’s one of Munich’s most upscale hotels and the nearest to Isarvorstadt.
Schwabing: Bohemian Charm & Green Spaces
Once home to artists and writers, Schwabing still carries a bohemian vibe with tree-lined boulevards, boutique shops, and plenty of cozy cafés. The atmosphere feels more local and laid-back compared to the touristy center, but it’s still very connected to the rest of the city.
At Christmastime, Schwabing also hosts its own smaller market known for artisanal crafts and a relaxed, neighborhood feel.
Top 3 Things to Do in Schwabing
- Englischer Garten (North) – Stroll along walking paths, watch surfers on the Eisbach wave, and enjoy a beer at the beer garden near the Chinese Tower.
- Leopoldstraße Boulevard – Wander this boulevard with shops, cafés, and nightlife.
- Art & History – Visit the Seidlvilla cultural center or see the area’s late 19th and early 20th century Art Nouveau architecture.
Best for: families, and anyone who wants a more local vibe with easy access to the English Garden and local Christmas markets.
Best Hotels in Schwabing
Budget ($): PLAZA Premium München – the hotel offers air conditioning, private bathrooms, in room coffee makers, sun terrace and sound-proof rooms. Guests appreciate the public transport options and the breakfast buffet.
Mid-Range ($$): Steigenberger Hotel München – this hotel offers allergy-friendly wooden floors, private bathrooms with underfloor heating, and coffee makers. There is an on-site restaurant and a bar where a beer sommelier will lead guests through a beer tasting of Bavarian and international beers. Located less than a mile from the English Garden with easy access to old town! Great for families!
Luxury ($$$): Andaz Munich Schwabinger Tor, By Hyatt – this hotel offers a spa, rooftop bar with 360° views of the city and towards the Alps, coffee bar and on site restaurant. Located between Olympic Stadium and the English Garden, it’s very reasonably priced for a luxury 5 star hotel. Great for families!
Lehel: Elegant & Family-Friendly
Just northeast of Altstadt, Lehel is one of Munich’s oldest neighborhoods and most desirable neighborhoods. It blends historic architecture with a quieter, more residential feel and it’s well connected by U-bahn lines U4 and U5 (and multiple trams).
Top 3 Things to Do in Lehel
- Haus der Kunst – Explore modern and contemporary art
- Englischer Garten (South Entrance) – Easy access to playgrounds, walking paths, and family-friendly green space.
- Bavarian National Museum – Discover Bavarian art, history, and treasures.
Best for: families, travelers who want a quieter stay near the park, and a residential vibe while staying close to the city center.
Best Hotels in Lehel
Budget ($): Hotel ADRIA München – this hotel features free Wi-Fi, modern amenities and bathrooms, and a 4 minute walk to the English Garden. A breakfast buffet, take away breakfast, and room service are available. Great for families.
Mid-Range ($$): Boutique Hotel Splendid – a boutique hotel with city or garden views. Located in a historic building with a bar. Private bathrooms, bathrobes, soundproofing, balconies, and a breakfast buffet make this an excellent choice!
Luxury ($$$): Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski München – a 5 star highly rated luxury hotel located right on the famous Maximilian Street, providing excellent shopping right outside the door. The hotel has family rooms, fine dining in an on site restaurant and a breakfast buffet every morning.
Haidhausen: French Quarter Charm Across the River
On the east side of the Isar River, just across from Altstadt, Haidhausen has a small-town vibe and is often called Munich’s “French Quarter.” Well connected by S-Bahn and U-Bahn, it offers easy access to the city center while keeping a quieter, more local atmosphere.
Top 3 Things to Do in Haidhausen
- Gasteig Cultural Center – Attend concerts, performances, and cultural events.
- Müller’sches Volksbad – Swim or relax in this Art Nouveau bathhouse.
- Rosenheimer Platz & Ostbahnhof – A lively square and major train station that doubles as Haidhausen’s hub for local dining, beer gardens, and nightlife.
Best for: families, culture lovers, and travelers who want a more local atmosphere with easy access to both nightlife and central Munich.
Best Hotels in Haidhausen
Budget ($): Motel One München-Haidhausen – Free Wifi, private bathrooms, on site parking, breakfast buffet, and comfortable rooms are offered in this highly rated hotel. Munich Ost Train station is nearby and the Deutsches Museum is one mile away.
Mid-Range ($$): Novotel München City – this highly rated hotel was fully renovated in 2018 and offers a swimming pool, on-site bar and restaurant, air conditioning, and a play room for younger guests. The main train station and Marienplatz is only 5 minutes away on the S-Bahn. The Deutsches Museum is only a 5 minute walk away.
Luxury ($$$): Hotel München Palace – a quiet hotel located on the upper banks of the river Isar, near the English Garden. This hotel has a beautiful courtyard, free Wifi, on-site gym with steam room and sauna. The onsite restaurant provides excellent dining and a breakfast buffet. An airport transfer is also offered for a fee.
Nymphenburg: Royal Parks & Quiet Elegance
Located to the west of Munich’s core, Nymphenburg offers a mix of charm, expansive green space, and a quieter, more residential feel. It’s often considered one of Munich’s most desirable neighborhoods.
While it’s a bit removed from the city’s busiest spots, tram connections (like line 17) make it manageable to reach central Munich.
Top 3 Things to Do in Nymphenburg
- Schloss Nymphenburg – Tour the baroque palace, carriage museum, and porcelain collection.
- Nymphenburg Park & Canals – Walk or picnic in one of Munich’s largest and most beautiful green spaces.
- Botanical Gardens – Explore lush gardens next to the palace grounds.
Best for: travelers who favor tranquility, families wanting greenspace, or anyone looking to be near the palace gardens rather than the bar scene.
Best Hotels in Nymphenburg
Budget ($): Ibis München City Arnulfpark – this highly rated hotel is a part of a chain of budget hotels throughout Europe providing clean and no frills stays at budget prices. This hotel offers air conditioning, private bathrooms and free WiFi in all rooms. Parking and breakfast buffet are also available.
Mid-Range ($$): Hotel New Orly – this offers a gym, sauna, on-site parking, family rooms, air conditioning, and bath robes. There is a nice terrace to enjoy a meal at the restaurant or the breakfast buffet.
Luxury ($$$): Mandarin Oriental Hotel – a 5 Star hotel offering luxury rooms, a rooftop pool, and panoramic city views, located near Marienplatz. Great for families. While technically in Altstadt, it’s one of Munich’s most upscale hotels and the nearest to Nymphenburg.
Where We Stayed in Munich: KING’s HOTEL Center Superior
On my trip to Munich in 2024, we stayed at KING’s HOTEL Center Superior, and it turned out to be a great choice. Here’s a quick breakdown of my experience:
📍 Location
Just a few minutes’ walk from Munich’s main train station (Hauptbahnhof), this hotel was perfect for day trips by rail. It borders the Maxvorstadt neighborhood, so we could easily reach museums, cafés, and nightlife while still being about a 15-20 minute walk to Old Town.
🛏 Comfort
The rooms were small with a classic Bavarian touch, and the beds were comfortable. Despite being so central, it felt calm and quiet at night. Family rooms are available.
🍽️There were a few options for restaurants nearby and an Aldi. There were always food options in the train station. We used our hotel coupons (received if you opted out of room cleaning) for breakfast one day. The breakfast was decent but I preferred breakfast out if I have to pay for it.
💶 Value
Prices here are usually more affordable than staying directly in Altstadt, but you still get an excellent location. For us, it struck the right balance between cost, comfort, and convenience.
👉 If you want easy access to trains and a mix of local vibe plus city sights, KING’s HOTEL Center Superior is a solid option.
Should I Stay Near the Old Town?
Staying near the old town is great for first-time visitors and anyone who wants to be close to the action. Let’s explore the pros and cons of staying in old town.
Pros:
- Steps away from major attractions, cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and plenty of cafés and restaurants
- Walkable to the city’s main Christmas markets
- Perfect for first-time visitors
Cons:
- Hotels tend to be more expensive than other neighborhoods
- Rooms are often smaller and more compact
- Limited parking if traveling by car
- Can be crowded during peak tourist season and holiday markets
Quick Tips to Make Choosing Your Munich Stay Easier
- Book Early: The best accommodations and locations will sell out, especially during Christmas market season and Octoberfest. Rule of thumb book six months or more in advance for the best prices and availability.
- Look for Air Conditioning in the warmer months. Not all hotels in Munich offer it, so it’s best to check ahead.
- Check for Parking if you are Driving. Not all hotels have parking and some will charge a fee, so best to plan ahead.
- Choose walkability or close to public transport. I like to have everything I need nearby so be sure to check both for your needs.
- Is Breakfast Offered? Many hotels offer great breakfasts and some are very simple. If this is important to you, best to check ahead.
Top Things To Do In Munich
While your accommodation sets the tone, what you do in Munich makes the trip memorable. Here are some must-dos:
Marienplatz & Glockenspiel – See Munich’s main square and the famous animated clock at the Neues Rathaus.
Frauenkirche – Visit the city’s iconic twin-towered cathedral with panoramic views.
St. Peter’s Church (Alter Peter) – Munich’s Oldest Parish. Climb the tower for one of the best viewpoints over Old Town.
Viktualienmarkt – Wander the open-air market with local food stalls, flowers, and a central beer garden.
Munich Residenz – Tour Bavaria’s former royal palace and museums.
Hofbräuhaus – Experience Munich’s most famous beer hall, with traditional food, beer, and music.
English Garden (Englischer Garten) – Relax in one of the world’s largest urban parks, watch surfers on the Eisbach wave, or enjoy a beer garden at the Chinese Tower.
Deutsches Museum – Explore one of the world’s largest science and technology museums.
BMW Welt & Museum – See car displays and the history of BMW.
Olympiapark – Visit the 1972 Olympic grounds for tours, concerts, and a roof climb with city views.
Schloss Nymphenburg – Stroll through the baroque palace, its gardens, and nearby botanical garden.
Day Trips – Use Munich as a base to visit Neuschwanstein Castle, Dachau Memorial, Salzburg, or the Bavarian Alps.
Oktoberfest (seasonal) – Join the world’s largest beer festival at Theresienwiese in late September/early October.
Christmas Markets (seasonal) – Experience festive stalls, mulled wine, and lights at Marienplatz and neighborhood markets in December.
How Many Days Should You Stay In Munich?
Munich has plenty to see and do, so plan at least 2–3 days for a first-time visit. Here’s a suggested breakdown:
- Day 1: Explore Old Town, including the Church of St. Peter, Hofbräuhaus, Viktualienmarkt, and Frauenkirche. Take the elevator to the viewing platform in the new town hall. My One Day in Munich itinery will help you make the most of your day.
- Day 2: Explore one or more of Munich’s world class museums and visit the English Garden.
- Day 3: Take a Day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle, Dachau Memorial, or Salzburg.
For Christmas travelers, staying 3–4 nights allows for leisurely Christmas market shopping, indulging in seasonal treats, and seeing the sights without feeling rushed.
FAQs
Here is some practical information to help you plan your trip to Munich.
How to get to Munich?
Munich is easy to reach by plane via Munich International Airport, by train through Hauptbahnhof, or by car and long-distance bus from across Europe.
Getting from Munich Airport to the City Center
If you’re arriving from Munich Airport (Flughafen München), take the S8 line, which runs every 10–20 minutes and takes about 35–45 minutes to reach Hauptbahnhof (Main Station) or continue to Marienplatz in central Munich. This way is the most convenient and affordable. We did this and found it fairly easy to navigate. Follow the signs and the crowd from the airport, and you’ll be at the kiosks to buy tickets with the train platform next to it!
💡 Pro Tip: The Munich City Card offers unlimited U-Bahn, S-Bahn, tram, and bus rides, plus discounts at museums, restaurants, and shops.
Getting Around Munich
Most of Altstadt (Old Town) is walkable. For longer distances, use U-Bahn, S-Bahn, trams, or buses. If arriving from the airport, take the S8 S-Bahn line to Hauptbahnhof or Marienplatz.
How to Get Discounts to Main Attractions
The Munich City Card offers discounts at museums, restaurants, and shops in addition to unlimited rides on public transportation. It’s well worth the cost if you plan to stay a few days.
When is the best time to visit Munich?
- For festivals and events, aim for late September–October (Oktoberfest) or late November–December (Christmas markets).
- For good weather and fewer crowds, spring (April–May) is ideal.
- For outdoor fun and beer gardens, summer is best, but it’s also the busiest.
Are shops open on Sundays?
Most shops in Munich are closed on Sundays, except for stores in train stations, airports, and some bakeries or souvenir shops.
Are museums and tourist attractions open on Sundays?
Yes! Many of Munich’s top tourist destinations and museums are open on Sundays, making it a great day for sightseeing and cultural visits.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to where to stay in Munich, Munich’s neighborhoods each offer something unique. You have the historic charm of Altstadt, the cultural sights of Maxvorstadt, the nightlife of Isarvorstadt, and the family-friendly and calmer Lehel, Haidhausen, or Nymphenburg. For convenience, Ludwigsvorstadt is close to the main train station, while Schwabing blends arts with easy access to the Englischer Garten.
Wherever you stay, Munich’s excellent public transport makes it simple to explore the city and beyond. Pick the neighborhood that best fits your style, and you’ll have the perfect base for discovering Munich’s history, culture, and Bavarian charm.
I hope you found this where to stay in Munich guide helpful for planning your trip. Drop me an email if you have any questions. TravelandTinsel@gmail.com I love to hear from readers.
