Munich, the largest city in Bavaria and the third largest city in Germany, is a breathtaking destination with its twinkling lights, sizzling sausages, and the aroma of mulled wine filling the air. In the winter, Munich transforms into a magical wonderland. While Oktoberfest may be the main attraction for many visitors, the winter season offers a unique charm with its Christmas markets spread throughout the city. Despite the cold weather, there is always a warm and cozy beer hall nearby to indulge in Bavarian food and beer.
Munich is known for its vibrant culture and friendly locals, making it a welcoming destination. However, it’s important to note that you are still in Germany, which comes with its own unique challenges. The first tip is to pack warm clothing, as it can get quite cold in Munich during the winter. The average temperatures range from 27ºF to 39ºF, but it often feels colder due to factors such as wind chill and the city’s location. Snowfall is also common, so it’s essential to come prepared with appropriate winter attire.
Getting around Munich in winter is made easy with its excellent public transportation system. While the Old Town is easily walkable, the cold weather may make you prefer using public transport to explore the rest of the city. Munich offers four modes of public transportation: S-Bahn (local trains), U-Bahn (underground trains), buses, and trams. These options provide convenient and efficient ways to travel around the city.
When it comes to language, English is widely spoken in Munich, so you won’t have any trouble communicating. However, it’s always appreciated by locals when visitors make an effort to learn a few basic German words. Simple greetings like “Hallo” (Hello), “Guten Morgen/Tag/Abend” (Good morning/day/evening), and “Danke” (Thanks) can go a long way in showing your respect for the local culture.
Now that you’re prepared for your trip to Bavaria, let’s explore the 14 amazing things to do in Munich during winter.
1. Visit the Christmas Markets: Bavaria is renowned for its Christmas markets, and Munich is no exception. With over 20 markets scattered throughout the city, you’ll find an array of traditional wooden Christmas decorations, handmade German Christmas cards, mulled wine, gingerbread, and delicious food. The Christkindlmarkt on Marienplatz is the largest and most famous, boasting an 80 ft Christmas tree in front of the magnificent city hall. Other notable markets include the Kripperlmarkt, the Sternenplatzl am Rindermarkt, the Medieval Christmas Market at Wittelsbacher Platz, and the Christkindlmarkt at the Chinese Tower in the English Garden.
2. Indulge in Christmas Market Foods: One of the highlights of visiting the Christmas markets is sampling the delectable treats on offer. Each market has its own specialties, so be sure to try stollen (German fruit bread), schneeballen (fried dough treats), and eierpunsch (egg punch), among other delicious delicacies.
3. Explore the Residenz Museum: Step into history by visiting the Residenz Museum, the former royal palace of the Bavarian monarchs. This opulent palace showcases stunning architecture, richly decorated rooms, and an extensive art collection. It’s a perfect activity to escape the cold weather and immerse yourself in Munich’s regal past.
4. Enjoy the Winter Tollwood Festival: The Winter Tollwood Festival is a multicultural event that takes place in Munich’s Olympic Park. It features live music, theater performances, art exhibitions, and a diverse selection of food stalls offering international cuisine. This vibrant festival is a celebration of diversity and creativity, providing a unique winter experience.
5. Take a Stroll in the English Garden: Despite the chilly weather, the English Garden is a beautiful place to explore during winter. Bundle up and wander through its serene landscapes, visit the Chinese Tower, or even try your hand at ice skating on the frozen lake.
6. Visit the Nymphenburg Palace: Another impressive palace to explore is the Nymphenburg Palace. Large gardens surround this Baroque-style palace, which also serves as the location of a museum showcasing Bavarian royal history. Take a leisurely walk through the gardens and marvel at the stunning architecture of the palace.
7. Experience the Viktualienmarkt: The Viktualienmarkt is a bustling food market located in the heart of Munich. It offers a wide variety of fresh produce, local delicacies, and specialty food items. Warm up with a cup of hot mulled wine and savor the flavors of Bavaria.
8. Discover the Deutsches Museum: For science and technology enthusiasts, the Deutsches Museum is a must-visit. This interactive museum showcases a vast collection of exhibits, ranging from physics and chemistry to astronomy and transportation. It’s a great place to escape the cold and expand your knowledge.
9. Attend a Classical Concert: Munich is known for its rich cultural scene, and winter is the perfect time to immerse yourself in classical music. Experience the magic of a live concert at one of Munich’s renowned concert halls, such as the Gasteig or the Philharmonie im Gasteig.
10. Visit the Munich Residenz Theatre: If you’re a fan of theater, make sure to catch a performance at the Munich Residenz Theatre. This historic theater hosts a variety of shows, including classical plays, operas, and ballets. Immerse yourself in the world of performing arts and witness the talent of local and international artists.
11. Discover the Bavarian State Opera: Munich is home to one of the world’s leading opera houses, the Bavarian State Opera. Experience the grandeur of a live opera performance and be captivated by the exceptional talent on stage. Make sure to book your tickets in advance for this unforgettable cultural experience.
12. Explore the Munich Residence: The Munich Residence is a magnificent palace complex that served as the seat of the Bavarian rulers. Wander through its stunning architecture and opulent rooms, including the Antiquarium, one of the largest Renaissance halls in Europe. The Residence also houses the Treasury, showcasing a collection of royal jewels and precious artifacts.
13. Take a Day Trip to Neuschwanstein Castle: Just outside of Munich lies the fairytale-like Neuschwanstein Castle. King Ludwig II created this iconic castle, which is a work of art in terms of architecture and provides stunning views of the surrounding area. Take a guided tour and immerse yourself in the enchantment of this magical place.
14. Enjoy Winter Sports in the Bavarian Alps: If you’re a fan of winter sports, take advantage of Munich’s proximity to the Bavarian Alps. Head to Garmisch-Partenkirchen, a popular ski resort, and hit the slopes for skiing, snowboarding, or tobogganing. The stunning alpine scenery provides the perfect backdrop for an exhilarating winter adventure.
Munich in the winter offers a plethora of activities and experiences that will leave you enchanted. From exploring the Christmas markets to immersing yourself in the city’s rich cultural scene, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So bundle up, embrace the cold, and embark on a magical winter journey in Munich.
