It's time for a unique getaway in the heart of Bavaria! Welcome to Munich, a city where tradition and modernity meet in perfect harmony. In just 3 days, you'll be immersed in the hustle and bustle of a metropolis with a thousand facets: from historic alleyways and lively brasseries to verdant parks and architectural treasures, there's a surprise around every corner. Join Petit Futé on a 3-day tour of Munich.
Day 1: Downtown Munich, palaces, cathedral and strolling
Good plan to book: If you want to do more than one tour, we recommend you book your Munich City Card right here. It entitles you to discounts of up to 70% on visits to Neuschwanstein Palace, the Deutsche Museum, the Lenbachhaus, the Residenz Museum, Lustheim Palace, the Pinakothek der Moderne, the Münchner Stadtmuseum, the Hop on Hop Off bus and Nymphenburg Palace.
As soon as you arrive in Munich, you'll be immersed in the authentic atmosphere of a preserved city center.
Morning: Marienplatz, Altes Rathaus Munich and Viktualienmarkt
Your first morning in Munich begins at marienplatzthe beating heart of the city. Here you can admire the Neues Rathaus, the new town hall dominated by an 85-metre tower topped by the Münchner Kindl, the city's symbol on its coat of arms. Right next door, you can also explore theAltes Rathaus, the old 15th-century town hall.
Good to know the Marienplatz subway station is one of 10 that resemble museums. Don't miss it!
Your footsteps will take you right behind Marienplatz. Here, you'll be immersed in the lively atmosphere of the Viktualienmarkt, Munich's historic market. It's packed with stalls selling German specialities, from charcuterie to honey, as well as fresh produce. Not to be missed! As you continue your tour of the city center, you'll find many treasures, such as the Maibaum, a traditional maypole that bears witness to the city's Bavarian roots.
Finally, it's the perfect time to head for the Hofbräuhaus. This legendary brewery, founded in 1589, is the ideal place for your first lunch break of your 3 days in Munich! Here, you'll enjoy a traditional Bavarian meal, while enjoying a typical musical atmosphere.
To book: We recommend booking this guided walking tour, which takes you through the main arteries and alleyways of Munich's Old Town.
Afternoon: Frauenkathedral and Residenz München
After a hearty local meal, head for the Frauenkirche, Munich's Cathedral of Our Lady. With its two iconic bulbous towers over 98 meters high, it is the city's Gothic landmark. We invite you to climb the south tower, for a breathtaking view of Munich and, on a clear day, the Alps.
Good to know: lovers of religious buildings will also appreciate the magnificent Theatinerkirche.
From the Frauenkirche, head for the Residenz München, less than 3 km away. This vast complex is in fact the former royal palace of the Wittelsbach family. It comprises several courtyards and wings, combining history and architectural splendor. Take time to explore its museums, including the Schatzkammer, the Treasure Room and the Theater, for which a combined ticket is available. Your visit, which can easily last a good three hours, ends with the Hofgarten, a peaceful garden dating back to the 17th century.
Day 2: What can you do in Munich in 3 days? Nymphenburg Palace and museums
On this second day, Munich's 3-day visit focuses on history. From castles to museums, the day promises to be rich in discoveries!
Morning: Nymphenburg Palace and gardens
After a hearty breakfast, we're off to Nymphenburg nymphenburg Palacethe former summer residence of the sovereigns of Bavaria. This majestic Baroque palace, with its richly decorated rooms, is a must-see for anyone interested in Bavarian royal history.
Once you've visited the palace, don't hesitate to explore the immensity of its park, a verdant setting reminiscent of Versailles. It's a pleasure to stroll along the stream-lined paths, cross the pretty bridges or admire the garden pavilions scattered throughout this grandiose space..
If you have a little time left, we invite you to visit theEnglischer Garten, Munich's green lung, some 6 kilometers away. Larger than Central Park, this garden is popular with Bavarians and visitors alike. On the agenda: picnics on the lawns, surfing on the Isar and a relaxing stroll!
To book: Click here to book your ticket to Nymphenburg Palace in advance.
Related article: Munich, between exceptional heritage and Oktoberfest
Afternoon: Munich's famous museums
Your afternoon begins at the Deutsches Museum, a paradise for science and technology enthusiasts. With its 50,000 m² of interactive exhibits and 17,000 objects, this museum immerses young and old in the world of natural science and technology. From astronomy to energy, communications and transport, the subjects covered are numerous!
After this scientific immersion, art lovers can head to the Pinakothek der Moderne. This museum, one of Munich's must-sees, brings together four collections:
- modern art,
- design,
- architecture,
- media art of the 20th and 21st centuries.
Good to know: if you visit this museum on a Sunday, admission costs just 1 euro!
Petit Futé Tip: Not really interested in modern art? Replace this visit with the Glyptothek, dedicated to ancient sculpture. Here, you'll be immersed in Greek and Roman history , with works dating back to the 6th century BC, all in a majestic setting.
Day 3: Olympiapark and other must-see museums in Munich in 3 days
There are many other museums to visit, as well as Munich's famous Olympic Park. Ready to go? Let's go!
Morning: what to do in Munich in 3 days? Visit the Olympiapark and the BMW Museum
Among the must-sees in Munich in 3 days is theOlympiapark, a huge park designed for the 1972 Olympic Games. You'll need to get up early, however, as the Olympiapark + BMW Museum combo can easily take 4 hours!
On foot or by bike, this site inspired by the Alpine landscape can be visited 24 hours a day. Here, you can admire the capital-like glass roofs of the Olympiastadion, the Olympiahalle and the Olympiaschwimmhalle, a true technical masterpiece. One of the highlights of the tour is the ascent of the Olympiaturm, a 291-metre-high tower offering breathtaking views of Munich and the Alpine peaks on a clear day.
Another option: book this multi-stop bus tour of Munich. Enjoy magnificent views of the city, from the Olympic Park to Nymphenburg Palace, getting on and off the bus whenever you like.
After this immersion in sporting history, visit the bMW Museumlocated nearby. This boldly designed building, nicknamed the "sausage pot", houses a 5,000 m² exhibition dedicated to the famous Bavarian brand. From emblematic models to prototypes, including James Bond's car in Tomorrow Never Dies, the visit promises to be thrilling!
Afternoon: shopping and a stroll along the Isar River
Munich is one of Europe's top shopping destinations, so set a course for the Karlsplatzwhere Neuhauserstrasse extends into a wide pedestrian street lined with boutiques. Here, you'll find the major international brands, as well as more local names, all in a lively atmosphere. Another Munich must: Maximilianstrasse, the city's luxury shopping address.
Good to know: in December, a magnificent Christmas market transforms the city center with its gingerbread stalls and festive decorations!
Got a little time left before departure? End your day in style with a stroll along the banks of the Isar, the river that runs through Munich. Once an industrial torrent, it has been renaturalized to provide a peaceful, green space for locals and visitors alike.
Where to stay in Munich for 3 days? Our selection of the best hotels
Marienplatz is a central point in Munich, ideal for exploring the city on foot, with little or no public transport. On the other hand, if you're on a tight budget and looking for good value for money, the area between Karlsplatz and the train station is ideal.
- Best value for money
There's nothing wrong with the Gambino Hotel Cincinnati! Comfort, a warm welcome, peace and quiet, optimal location, free and easy parking... What more could you ask for? Book your budget hotel in downtown Munichhere.
- The coziest
The Landhotel Martinshof is one of those places you'll always remember. With its cosy ambience, welcoming decor and hearty, delicious breakfast, it's the perfect place to spend a pleasant, quiet stay! Click here to reserve your room.
- The most authentic
The interior and exterior architecture of theAlter Hof is typical of this pretty corner of Bavaria. This charming, quality hotel also offers tasty cuisine. A choice address, quietly located away from the city center, to be booked here.
Did you know that Munich is one of the most beautiful cities in the world? Its city center is so rich in sights that it deserves lines and lines and lines. In particular, there are two not-to-be-missed districts: Werksviertel and Haidhausen. A must on your to-do list! Got a little time left? Take a look at the 15 must-sees in Bavaria: you won't regret it. Finally, if you visit Munich in early autumn, don't miss the Oktoberfest, Munich's Oktoberfest beer festival, a must-see event at least once in your life.
The article to read: What to do in Germany The 17 most beautiful places to visit
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