Munich in 2 days: a full itinerary with museums and palaces
Quick answer
For 2 days in Munich, spend the first on the old town (Marienplatz, Frauenkirche, Viktualienmarkt and the Residenz) and the second on the Kunstareal museums, the English Garden and Nymphenburg Palace. If it falls on a Sunday, state museums cost just €1.
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Day 1: old town and the Residenz
A day on foot through the heart of the city, with time for the Residenz and lunch at the market.
- 1
09:30 · Marienplatz
Marienplatz and New Town Hall
Neo-Gothic façade, and the tower climb if the day is clear.
- 2
10:45 · Marienplatz
11:00 Glockenspiel
The chimes and moving figures, free to watch.
- 3
11:30 · Frauenkirche
Frauenkirche and Peterskirche
The twin-towered cathedral and, a few steps away, St Peter's, the oldest church in the city.
- 4
12:45 · Viktualienmarkt
Lunch at the Viktualienmarkt
Local food stalls and beer under the chestnut trees.
- 5
14:30 · Residenz
Residenz and Treasury
State rooms, courtyards and the Bavarian crown jewels. With AnyArt, point at any portrait or sculpture to hear who it was.
- 6
17:30 · Odeonsplatz and Hofgarten
Stroll through the Hofgarten
After the visit, walk out to the gardens and Odeonsplatz.
- 7
19:30 · Old town
Dinner at a brewery hall
Pick a classic brewery hall and try Schweinshaxe or Obatzda.
Day 2: museums, English Garden and Nymphenburg
A more cultural day. If it is a Sunday, state museums cost only €1 but are busier: arrive at opening.
- 1
10:00 · Kunstareal · U2 Königsplatz
Alte Pinakothek
European masters such as Rubens, Rembrandt and Dürer. Allow about 2 hours.
- 2
12:30 · Kunstareal
Pinakothek der Moderne or Museum Brandhorst
Modern and contemporary art and design. Pick one if you are short on time.
- 3
14:00 · Maxvorstadt
Lunch in Maxvorstadt
Student cafés and restaurants near the university.
- 4
15:30 · English Garden
English Garden and Eisbach
A walk through the park, the Eisbach surfers and the Chinese Tower.
- 5
17:00 · Nymphenburg Palace
Nymphenburg
If you have time left, stroll through the palace park. Check closing times on the official site.
- 6
19:30 · Haidhausen or Glockenbachviertel
Dinner in a neighbourhood
Dine in Haidhausen or the Glockenbachviertel, calmer than the centre.
Tips for planning the 2 days
- If you can only do one museum, choose the Alte Pinakothek or the Deutsches Museum depending on whether you prefer art or science.
- If you have a third day, Neuschwanstein is doable by train and bus; book your ticket ahead.
- Check the Deutsches Museum site for which halls are open, as renovation work is ongoing.
- On Sundays many shops and supermarkets in Germany are closed; shop ahead.
Frequently asked questions
Is 2 days enough for Munich?
For the essentials, yes: old town, Residenz, a couple of museums and the English Garden. With three days you can add Nymphenburg at a relaxed pace or a day trip.
Which day is best for museums?
Sunday if you want to save money, as many state museums cost €1; for fewer crowds, a weekday morning.
Can I visit Neuschwanstein from Munich?
Yes, as a full-day trip by train and bus. Book ahead on the official Bavarian palaces site.
Is the Deutsches Museum worth it?
If you like science and technology, yes. Some halls are under renovation, so check the official site before you go.