Experience Munich like a local
Experience Munich like a local
Insider’s Guide to Munich
Munich is widely known for its beer and Brez’n, and while it’s true you might gain a couple of pounds from all the carbs, this city is much more than that. From traditions like Wiesn (Oktoberfest), to beer gardens filled with songs, to beautiful parks and architecture, Munich has it all. This quiet yet lively city leaves visitors wanting to go back.
Having lived in Munich for three years, I learned a thing or two about being a foreigner in this German-speaking city—along with some of its best kept secrets, which most visitors never discover. This guide is here to help travelers see Munich’s hidden side and enjoy it like a local. In fact, one of the best ways to see Munich is through a walking tour.
What to See and Do
From the charm of the Altstadt (Old Town) streets to breathtaking views from the Olympic Hill, this city is full of little spots that make it special. These are the places where visitors can see Munich the way locals do—quiet corners, iconic landmarks, and hidden gems all in one.
Experience Marienplatz
Photograph by Glori Pérez
Translated as “Mary’s Plaza,” Marienplatz is the heart of Munich. The Rathaus (town hall) sits over the square with stunning Gothic details, where travelers will want to snap plenty of photos. But don’t miss what’s around! Stroll down Kaufingerstraße for some shopping or stop by Rischart for a Brezel and coffee. Just make sure to be back at the Rathaus by 5:00pm sharp for the famous Glockenspiel show. From there, wander through the Altstadt to see Munich’s oldest buildings and head over to the Sendlinger Tor (Sendling Gate).
Visit Frauenkirche
This is one of Munich’s most famous landmarks, hard to miss with its twin domed towers. What many don’t know is that it has a secret: a tile inside has a mysterious story behind it. I won’t spoil it here, but it is worth visitors stepping inside to see for themselves.
Discover Odeonsplatz
Photograph by Glori Pérez
Odeonsplatz is one of Munich’s most impressive—and historical—squares. Check out Feldherrnhalle, a monument honoring Bavarian military leaders, but don’t miss the fun local tradition—rub the face on the lion statue’s shield just outside Residenz for good luck. And make sure to stroll around Hofgarten, a beautiful garden where locals go to relax and enjoy some quiet in the middle of the city.
Wander Through the Englischer Garten
Photograph by Glori Pérez
This is Munich’s green heart and the best place to hang out like a local. People come here to picnic, jog, or lay out on the grass with friends. Don’t miss the Eisbachwelle for a surf show or grab a cold Maß (liter of beer) at the Chinesischer Turm (Chinese Tower).
Stroll the Gardens of Nymphenburg Palace
Photograph by Glori Pérez
Sure, it’s a palace—but for locals, it’s a place to relax and exercise. Inside, visitors can peek at the fancy ballrooms, but the real magic is outside: swans gliding across the water in summer, gardens filled with golden leaves in fall, and ice-skating on the frozen ponds in winter.
Explore Olympiapark and BMW Welt
Photograph by Glori Pérez
Olympiapark shows Munich’s fun side: picnics by the lake, open-air concerts, and the best sunset views from the Olympic Hill. Right inside the park, BMW Welt (BMW World) is a must, even if visitors are not into cars. The building itself and the exhibits are worth checking out (plus there is air conditioning if you need a break).
What to Taste
Munich is famous for its sausages, pretzels, and beer—but there’s a lot more to discover. Thanks to its proximity to Italy, travelers will find some of the best pizza and pasta outside ‘The Boot’ itself. From classic Bavarian comfort foods to sweet treats and beer garden favorites, here are the dishes all visitors should try at least once. If travelers want a bit of everything, but time is a concern, let us recommend a food tour of Munich.
Brezel
The classic Bavarian snack—best enjoyed warm with butter (Butterbrezel) or cream cheese with chives (Brezn mit Frischkäse und Schnittlauch). Visitors will find them at every bakery, restaurant, and coffee shop in the city, but in my opinion, Rischart is the best.
Currywurst
A German street food classic—sliced sausage mixed in spiced ketchup and curry powder. For the best one in town, head to Viktualienmarkt.
Weißwurst
A Bavarian classic, these veal sausages are usually eaten for breakfast with sweet mustard and a pretzel. For the real deal, head to Gaststätte Großmarkthalle and order the Weißwurstfrühstück (white sausage breakfast)—but remember to peel off the skin if visitors don’t want locals to give them the side-eye.
Sauerkraut
Sauerkraut is the perfect side for sausages or roasted meats. Travelers will find it on the menu at every traditional restaurant and Biergarten.
Käsespätzle
Bavaria’s version of mac and cheese: soft egg noodles smothered in melted cheese, topped with crispy onions. Seriously, don’t skip this one.
Obazda
Photograph by Glori Pérez
A creamy cheese spread made with Camembert, butter, and paprika—basically a must at any beer garden. My top pick? Seehaus im Englischer Garten.
Schnitzel
Photograph by Glori Pérez
A crispy breaded veal or pork cutlet, served with Kartoffelsalat (potato salad) or fries. Pro tip: Don’t skip the currant jam and a squeeze of lemon—it makes the flavor pop.
Schweinshaxe
A slow-roasted pork knuckle—a true Bavarian feast. For the full experience, go classic at Hofbräuhaus München.
Kaiserschmarrn
Photograph by Glori Pérez
Fluffy, caramelized pancake pieces sprinkled with powdered sugar and served with apple compote. My recommendation is Nürnberger Bratwurst Glöckl am Dom, right next to the Frauenkirche.
Insider Extras
Photograph by Glori Pérez
Radler: A refreshing summer drink lighter than beer. Tastes better when enjoyed under a hot sun.
Spezi: Bavaria’s classic soft drink—a mix of cola and orange soda that’s surprisingly good.
Italian Eats: Don’t overlook Munich’s Italian scene—trattorias and gelaterias are everywhere, and locals love them as much as their beer gardens. Some of my favorites are Giorgia, Gigi, and Marta for pasta, The Italian Shot for pizza, and Ballabeni for gelato.
Oktoberfest Like a Local
Photograph by Glori Pérez
Tents 101
Think of a tent as a little world of its own. Each one has its own beer, music, and vibe. Some are cozy and traditional, others loud and party-heavy, but the magic of Oktoberfest is that no matter which tent visitors pick, they’ll always find people singing, cheering, and having a good time. If travelers want a classic local experience, head to Augustiner-Festhalle. The beer is poured straight from wooden barrels, the vibe is relaxed and gemütlich (cozy), and they’ll really feel like they’re celebrating alongside Münchners (people from Munich).
When to Go
Weekdays before 4:00pm are ideal if you want a quieter vibe and a better chance of grabbing a seat. Tuesdays are Family Day, meaning cheaper rides and a more relaxed atmosphere. The first weekend of October—known as “Italian Weekend”—gets wild, with half of Northern Italy showing up, so plan ahead for large crowds.
How to Get in Without a Reservation
Try to get to the tents early—before 11:00am. Check out the “No Reservations” area or just be friendly and ask for room, chances are someone will make some for visitors.
What Locals Eat
At Wiesn (a nickname for Oktoberfest), the food is as much a part of the experience as the beer. Locals go for classics like Wiesn-Hendl (roast chicken), Ochsensemmel (ox sandwich), Steckerlfisch (grilled fish on a stick), Käsekrainer (cheesy sausages), and Mandeln (sweet, candied almonds). Don’t miss the world-famous Bayerische Brez’n.
Tracht Secrets
When it comes to Tracht—traditional Bavarian attire for Oktoberfest—authenticity matters. Avoid cheap, costume-style Lederhosen and Dirndls, as they stand out in all the wrong ways. For Dirndl bows, placement says more than words:
- Left: Single
- Right: Taken
- Center: It’s complicated
- Back: Widow or waitress
If wearing traditional clothing doesn’t feel right, smart casual is always a better choice than a low-quality knockoff. Want a visual guide? Check out this quick video on how to wear Dirndl and Lederhosen properly. It’s a simple, helpful overview for first timers.
What Not to Do at Wiesn
Always order a full Maß—there are no half liters. Benches are fine for standing, but tables are off-limits. Keep tips reasonable—a euro or two is enough. Don’t try to save a spot with just a jacket and always have cash ready. If you want a mug, buy it—taking one is a definite no-go.
Final Local Tip
Pace yourself. Wiesn-goers know how to make it through the whole day without ending up on the Bierleichen (“beer corpses”) benches. Better yet, book a tour to experience Oktoberfest like a local without the stress of finding a tent. And remember to have fun!
Insider’s Tips
Sundays Are for Relaxing
Shops might be closed, but that’s perfect for doing what locals do: grab a picnic blanket and head to the Englischer Garten or relax over Kaffee und Kuchen (coffee and cake) at a café.
Cash Is Still Your Friend
Many small shops, bakeries, and beer gardens don’t take cards, so it’s always wise to have some cash at hand.
Public Transport Hack
Tickets are easy to grab at station kiosks or via the MVG app. Visitors can get day tickets, week passes, or even group tickets for up to five adults. They cover the U-Bahn, S-Bahn, trams, and buses. Travelers should always carry this ticket—inspectors do random checks, and fines for riding without one are steep.
Best Time to Visit
Photograph by Glori Pérez
Late May or early June is perfect for lazy afternoons in the beer gardens. Early September has that same golden light and crisp evenings, but without the Oktoberfest crowds. Late September to early October gives travelers the full-on Bavarian experience, with locals and visitors alike dressed in Dirndls and Lederhosen. Then from late November through December, the city turns into a winter wonderland, with Christmas markets everywhere—Marienplatz is the most iconic. It’s a cozy time to sip Glühwein, nibble on roasted almonds, and soak in Munich’s Christmas magic.
Common Misconception
Many visitors assume Munich is all about Oktoberfest and beer. Munich is also an artistic hub with world-class museums like the Pinakotheken, a thriving coffee scene, and it has one of Europe’s most efficient public transport systems. Locals rarely spend their free time in beer halls—most are more likely to be cycling along the Isar river, grabbing Italian food in Schwabing, or simply spending time outdoors. Oktoberfest is a blast, but it’s Munich’s everyday life that really makes the city so special.
Culture & Etiquette Tip
Münchners really value order and respect, so a little cultural awareness goes a long way. Always greet people with a friendly Servus—the Bavarian way to say hello. On public transport, stand to the right on escalators so others can pass on the left. In beer gardens, sharing tables with strangers is normal. Service might feel different than back home: staff won’t hover, but when you ask for the bill, it will come fast. And a small but important tip: when you clink glasses with a Prost (cheers), make eye contact—otherwise it’s considered bad luck.
How Europe Express Can Help
Europe Express makes it easy to experience the best of Munich with:
- Custom itineraries designed for every travel style
- Exclusive hotel options, from boutique stays to historic landmarks
- Self-drive packages and car rental assistance
- Expert-led tours, tastings, and cultural experiences
- 24/7 support for a stress-free journey
With the logistics handled, travelers are free to sip, stroll, and savor everything Munich has to offer.
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