Munich is a city that wears many hats. It’s famous for its incredible architecture, diverse art, football team, the largest beer garden in Bavaria, and, of course, Oktoberfest.
There’s a new town hall, in the old town, which is over 100 years old, to give you an idea of the paradoxical city Munich is. Full of history and mystery, you can wander around the museum quarter and take a virtual reality tour in the same day. All followed by steins and sausages, of course, it’s Germany!
As it’s such a popular destination, Munich is also full of places to stay. It’s also quite an expensive destination, with prices soaring during Oktoberfest. That being said, the price tags shouldn’t put you off, I’ve hunted out the best hostels for you as well as luxurious hotels, I’ve got you!
Munich is an expansive destination that should feature on every backpacker’s bucket list and I want to help you make it happen. To help you figure out exactly where to stay in Munich, I’ve done the research and found the five best neighbourhoods. I’ve also included the top activity and accommodation picks in each area so you know what’s good.
Grab a brezel, a bratwurst and a beer and let’s dive in.
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- Where is the Best Place to Stay in Munich?
- Munich Neighborhood Guide – Best Places to Stay in Munich
- Munich’s Five Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
- FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Munich
- What To Pack For Munich
- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Munich
- Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Munich
- Buy Us a Coffee!
Looking for a specific place to stay? Perhaps one of the epic Munich hostels or maybe something more elegant?
These are my highest recommendations for places to base yourself in Munich.
Hotel Blauer Bock | Best Hotel in Munich
A convenient location, fabulous décor, and spacious rooms are just a few of the reasons Hotel Blauer Bock is my top pick for hotels in Munich. This modern centrally located hotel has a coffee bar, bike rentals, and spacious rooms. There’s also a great onsite restaurant and a stylish hotel lounge bar, the ultimate city break.
Wombats City Hostel Munich | Best Hostel in Munich
Wombats City is my top choice for where to stay in Munich on a budget. It’s centrally located and just a short walk from Old Town – so you can explore the city with ease. You’ll be well-connected to public transit, restaurants, and bars.
Best of all, this fun and funky hostel has a great social atmosphere, laundry facilities, and relaxing hammocks. It’s my favourite hostel in Munich and is ideally situated within easy walking distance of one of the most famous festivals in the world.
Luxury Loft next to Marienplatz | Best Airbnb in Munich
Whether you’re deciding where to stay in Munich for Oktoberfest, or are looking for somewhere that’s cosy and private, check out this stunning studio. It’s pet-friendly and has everything you need for a comfortable stay, including a full kitchen and wifi. Situated just in Isarvorstadt, exploring the city is within walking distance.
Altstadt
Altstadt is the historic centre of Munich. It’s made up of charming cobblestone streets and expansive medieval squares.
Isavorstadt
Isavorstadt is a lively and vibrant neighbourhood that is part of Munich’s second district. Just outside of Altstadt, Isavorstadt is centrally located with a great variety of bars, clubs, pubs and restaurants, yet a much more affordable option than Alstadt.
Maxvorstadt
Located between the city centre and the suburbs, Maxvorstadt is a hub for Munich’s arts scene. It’s home to a wealth of museums and art galleries as well as universities and cultural institutions.
Schwabing
Schwabing is one of the most eclectic and coolest places to stay in Munich. It is Munich’s artistic quarter as well as its wealthiest and most desirable district. This contrast is what makes Schwabing quite unique.
Haidhausen
Haidhausen is a downtown neighbourhood located across the river from Altstadt. Its history dates back more than 1,200 years to when Haidhausen was once one of the poorest districts of the city.
As the largest and capital city in Bavaria, a lot of people consider it one of the coolest destinations in Europe.
From historic landmarks to cultural hotspots, Munich offers a multitude of experiences to satisfy every traveler’s interests. Whether you’re exploring the vibrant neighborhoods, indulging in the local cuisine, or immersing yourself in the city’s rich history, Munich is a captivating destination.
Photo: @monteiro.online
Altstadt is the historic and geographic heart of Munich. A pedestrianised zone, Altstadt is where you’ll find the majority of Munich’s tourist attractions, including Marienplatz, as well as shopping and great restaurants.
To the north, you have the district of Maxvorstadt. Considered the center of cultural attractions of Munich, here you’ll find a great variety of museums and art galleries. It has a lively and vibrant student population and is home to Munich’s best nightlife scene.
Right next door is Isavorstadt, my top pick for where to stay in Munich on a budget. It has slightly cheaper accommodation options but is still close to central Munich. Worry less about where you’re sleeping and more about where the next stein is coming from.
Schwabing is an exciting and eclectic neighborhood. It’s full of quirky bars and coffee shops, as well as various cultural attractions.
Across the Iskar River are Haidhausen and East Munich. These two areas are amongst the oldest in the city. They have stunning architecture and a plethora of thriving restaurants and family-friendly attractions.
Visiting Munich also means getting the chance to be a part of the famous annual German festival Oktoberfest. The beer tents and steins attract thousands of revellers from all over the world.
Still not sure where to stay in Munich? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered.
Munich’s Five Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Munich is one of the most beautiful cities in Germany and attracts a lot of people every year to visit the Bavarian capital. Now, let’s take a look in more detail at the five best areas in Munich. Each is a little different than the last, so be sure to check out which is right for you!
1. Altstadt – Where to Stay in Munich for Your First Time
Altstadt is the historic center of Munich. It’s made up of charming cobblestone streets and expansive medieval squares. This area of Munich is home to the city’s most famous and recognizable tourist attractions and landmarks, making it the best place to stay in Munich for the first time. Waltz around the new town hall which is ironically found in the Old Town…
Culture vultures who want to check Munich’s top attractions off their list will love exploring the old town of Altstadt. Tucked around every corner are iconic sights and architectural gems, including the Altes and Neues Rathaus, Hofgarten, and the State Chancellery.
Hotel Blauer Bock | Best Hotel in Altstadt
This stylish hotel is one of the best places to stay in Munich, thanks to its convenient and central location, wonderful rooms, and excellent amenities. Guests can enjoy a lounge, a coffee bar, and an onsite restaurant. They also offer a bike rental, so you can explore the city with ease.
Smart Stay Hotel | Best Hostel in Altstadt
Situated just outside Altstadt, Smart Stay Hotel provides affordable and comfortable living no matter how long you stay. Breakfast is provided for a surcharge so you can fuel up each morning before a day of exploring.
I suggest wandering the city on foot, there are so many wonders within easy walking distance.
Luxury Loft next to Marienplatz | Best Airbnb in Altstadt
This stunning apartment in Munich is suitable for three guests and was recently refurbished. It’s filled with natural light and features top-style amenities, including a full sound system and high-speed internet. The new town hall and the old town are within walking distance, and train stations are easy to reach to travel further afield.
Take the easy walk to the beer gardens in the area or if you’re here for Oktoberfest, it’s only a 15-minute walk from this Airbnb.
Things to See and Do in Altstadt:
- Admire the details of the Altes Rathaus, Old Town Hall, Munich’s old city hall that was originally built in 1474 and rebuilt following World War II.
- Browse the shops and stalls of Viktualienmarkt, a large open-air market.
- Enjoy great beer and traditional German food at the Marienplatz.
- Grab a drink and spend an afternoon people-watching at Hofbräuhaus, one of the most famous brewpubs in Munich on this guided walking tour.
- See antiques and armour, artefacts and more from the Middle Ages through the early-20th-century at the Bayerisches Nationalmuseum.
- Embark on a guided bike tour of Munich and discover historic buildings, the Old Town, the English Garden, and the Chinese Tower.
- Visit the Neues Rathaus, the New Town Hall, and let the magical figures of the Glockenspiel entertain you with their musical show.
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Isavorstadt – Best Place to Stay in Munich on a Budget
Isavorstadt is a lively and vibrant neighborhood in Munich’s second district. Just outside of Altstadt, Isavorstadt is centrally located with a great variety of bars, clubs, and pubs, yet a much more affordable option than Altstadt. This makes it my top pick for those backpacking Germany on a budget.
One of the hippest districts in the city, Isavorstadt is very popular amongst Munich’s younger population. Get amongst the locals to enjoy craft beer, good cocktails, and a night on the town.
But there’s more to Isavorstadt than just beer. This south-central neighborhood is also popular for its world-renowned museums, cultural institutions, incredible restaurants, and some of the best views in the city.
Hotel Stachus | Best Hotel in Isavorstadt
The comfortable rooms at the Stachus combine contemporary design with comfortable furnishings. A buffet breakfast is provided (for an extra cost), so you can fuel up before a day of exploring. The hotel is situated within walking distance from top attractions including the Hofbräuhaus, and the Munich Central station is just five minutes away.
Wombats City Hostel Munich | Best Hostel in Isavorstadt
Wombats City is a fun and funky hostel – and my top choice for where to stay in Isavorstadt. With its central location, a short walk from Altstadt, this hostel is close to the central station, so you can visit the rest of Munich easily.
Cheeehoo, this is why it’s considered one of the best hostels in Germany.
It has a great social atmosphere and guests will love relaxing in hammocks in the glass-roofed terrace. If you are visiting Munich for Oktoberfest, this is the perfect base for backpackers looking to meet people to enjoy the festival with.
City Studio at Schwan Locke | Best Apartment in Isavorstadt
This stylish studio provides a private and luxurious retreat that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg! With a luxurious hotel vibe, it’s an easy visit to the beer gardens of Oktoberfest, providing a gateway into the underground side of the city. The studio has all the creature comforts of home, like a full kitchen, wifi, and air conditioning.
Things to See and Do in Isavorstadt:
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
- Grab a seat at the Bavariapark beer garden, a 1500 seat pub that’s always bursting with activity and life.
- Immerse yourself in the diversity of Munich, see the Oktoberfest from above and fly past the famous Frauenkirche in this Virtual Reality experience.
- Stand in awe of St. Paul’s Church, the second largest church in Munich whose bell tower stands nearly 100 meters tall. Climb to the top of the tower for an incredible view over Munich to the Alps.
- Travelling in late-September? Grab a pint and join the party at Oktoberfest, the world’s largest beer festival.
- Explore the famous river, whilst discovering places where only locals know and learning about the myth and legends of the water nymph “Isar”.
- Visit the Deutsches Museum and explore one of Europe’s best science and technology exhibitions.
- Visit the famous Paulaner brewery and enjoy a pint (or two) at its fantastic beer garden.
3. Maxvorstadt – Best Area to Stay in Munich For Nightlife
Located between the city center and the suburbs, Maxvorstadt is a hub for Munich’s arts scene. It’s home to the museum quarter and art galleries, as well as universities and cultural institutions. Tourists and locals flock to this area throughout the day and night to enjoy its fantastic displays, excellent restaurants, and world-class exhibitions.
Because of Maxvorstadt’s high volume of students and young people, it’s one of the best places to stay if partying is on your Munich itinerary. From rock clubs and quiet pubs to exciting eateries and all-night dance parties. This area of the city is where you’ll find a variety of things to do at night, everything within walking distance, no matter who you are.
Looking for the best places to drink beer in Munich? Check this post. I’ll tell you right now though, Königlicher is the largest beer garden in not only Munich, but Bavaria and potentially the world. Get your tail there! Check out the Deutsches Museum while you’re here if you like to geek out on science or need some quiet in between the beer gardens.
Hotel Erzgiesserei Europe | Best Hotel in Maxvorstadt
Enjoy modern accommodation at the heart of Maxvorstadt at the Hotel Erzgiesserei Europe. Situated within walking distance of public transport, this hotel is well-connected to the rest of the city.
Each room comes with slippers, a flat-screen TV, and free wifi. There’s also a splendid breakfast buffet. Sexy!
The 4You Hostel Munich | Best Hostel in Maxvorstadt
Comfortable, spacious, and packed with amenities – the 4You Hostel is my number one for where to stay in Maxvorstadt and my favourite hostels in Munich.
It has private and shared accommodations, and each bed has its own reading light and locker. A delicious continental breakfast buffet is also provided.
Maisonette with Garden in the Heart of Munich | Best Airbnb in Maxvorstadt
Situated close to museums, public transit, great restaurants, and numerous attractions, this sweet home allows visitors to fully experience all that Munich has to offer. Additionally, the presence of a private backyard provides a delightful outdoor space for relaxation.
The breakfast room overlooking the garden is my favourite nook in this Airbnb and I love that it’s within easy walking distance of everything.
Things to See and Do in Maxvorstadt:
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
- Discover the splendid castles of Ludwig II, King of Bavaria.
- Visit the Augustiner Keller beer garden, one of the landmarks of Munich.
- See brilliant works of art by great European masters at the Alte Pinakothek.
- Sit back, relax, and take in a film at Cinema, a fantastic theatre that screens original versions of English language films.
- Discover Munich’s dark side and visit the birthplace of Nazism, the sites of mass rallies, WWII sites, and much more.
- Take a tour of the Lowenbrau brewery and enjoy a few pints at this historic institution that dates all the way back to the late-14th century!
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Grab an eSIM!4. Schwabing – Coolest Place to Stay in Munich
Schwabing is one of the most eclectic places to stay in Munich. It’s the artistic quarter as well as its wealthiest and most desirable district, and this contrast makes Schwabing quite unique.
Located north of the city center, Schwabing is a magnet for tourists and locals alike. It’s home to a great variety of chic boutique and local designers, innovative restaurants, cozy cafes, and trendy bars and clubs. You’ll also find world-class museums and one-of-a-kind art installations.
One of Schwabing’s most famous attractions is the Englischer Garten. A massive urban green space, the Englischer Garten spans more than 900 acres and has intricate temples, charming teahouses, and lush verdant lawn.
Steigenberger Hotel Munchen | Best Hotel in Schwabing
The Steigenberger Hotel Munich is a stylish and modern hotel – and my top choice for where to stay in Schwabing. It’s got four stars and is well-connected to restaurants, bars, clubs, and shopping. Onsite, the hotel features a stylish bistro, a comfortable lounge bar, and a relaxing library.
Meininger Munich Olympiapark | Best Hostel in Schwabing
The Meininger sits just north of Schwabing-West and provides some of the best budget accommodation in Munich! The rooms and facilities are clean and modern, and free wifi is available throughout. After a day of exploring, there’s an outdoor terrace, bar, and games room to wind down in.
Neubau-Apartment | Best Airbnb in Schwabing
This is a warm home in Schwabing, the owner actually lives in so you know it’s lovely. There’s a lovely bright living room, one bedroom and a full kitchen. It’s a heavenly place to rest after the hustle of Munich while still being super accessible to the city.
The subway is just a two-minute walk away and within six minutes you’ll be in the main train station.
Things to See and Do in Schwabing:
Photo: Mark Pegrum (Flickr)
- Enjoy pints in the sun at Aumeister, one of Munich’s best beer gardens. You’ll find it at the north end of Englischer Garden.
- Visit Germany’s finest Rococo theatre, Cuvilliés Theatre
- Pack a picnic and enjoy an afternoon on the lawns of the stunning Englischer Garten.
- Rent a bike and cruise along the trails that weave throughout this gorgeous neighbourhood.
- See highlights of Munich on a guided Segway tour.
- Shop until you drop on Leopoldstrasse, one of Munich’s main boulevards, which is home to everything from high-end designers to high street fashions.
5. Haidhausen – Best Neighborhood in Munich for Families to Stay In
Haidhausen is a downtown neighbourhood located across the river from Altstadt. Its history dates back more than 1,200 years to when Haidhausen was once one of the poorest districts of the city.
Today, Haidhausen is a popular and thriving residential area. Thanks to its stunning architecture, lush landscapes, and close connection to the city centre, Haidhausen is my top choice for where to stay in Munich for families.
Haidhausen is packed with activities and attractions that will excite and entertain all members of the family. From skate parks and cinemas to climbing walls and parks, there’s plenty to see and do in this part of the city. One of Haidhausen’s main attractions is its beautiful riverbanks, which are perfect for relaxing and enjoying a stunning sunset after a long day of sightseeing.
Am Nockherberg Hotel | Best Hotel in Haidhausen
Amongst the best budget hotels, this three-star hotel is classic, clean and comfortable. Situated in Haidhausen, it is close to the Englischer Garten, which is a fantastic place to hang out with family and friends. Rooms are comfortable in this modern hotel, and a lavish breakfast is provided to fuel you up for a day of exploring.
HI Munich Park | Best Hostel in Haidhausen
Modern and cosy, this Haidhausen hostel is perfect for families visiting Munich. A short metro ride from the city centre, it is close to restaurants, parks, and Munich’s best landmarks.
This hostel has a delicious all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet, free wifi, and three spacious common rooms. There is also a bistro and vending machines. Snacks on!
Apartment in Haidhausen | Best Airbnb in Haidhausen
Nestled within a historic house, this apartment offers a separate entrance at ground level and a tranquil setting in a green inner yard. The entrance area features a small kitchenette equipped with a fridge and a cooking plate. The apartment boasts a spacious French bed.
Additionally, there is a bakery conveniently located right next to the apartment, and a dedicated workspace is provided for work or study purposes.
Things to See and Do in Haidhausen:
Photo: Will Hatton
- Learn about space, planets, the universe and beyond at the Bavarian Public Observatory Munich. For an incredible view, visit the 300 square meter observation platform and peer through the telescopes.
- Enjoy a peaceful and relaxing day at Maximiliansanlagen, a gorgeous park that runs along the river.
- Test your skills and race to the top at Boulderwelt Munchen Ost, a climbing wall suitable for all ages and levels.
- Learn about the White Rose group and pound the pavements.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Munich
Here’s what people usually ask me about the areas of Munich and where to stay.
What To Pack For Munich
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Where does Munich’s Central Station travel to?
Anywhere you want it to baby! There is only one main train station often called HBF (Munich Hauptbahnhof) – Hauptbahnhof means main station and pretty much all Munich trains pass through here. There’s free wifi and luggage lockers here too which is handy.
Where is Marienplatz?
Marienplatz is the main square of the old town, in Altstadt. You’ll find the new town hall here and heaps of other gorgeous historic buildings.
Where not to stay in Munich?
You’ve got to look after yourself and keep your wits about you in a city as large and drunk as Munich. I’ve written a bit here on the safety in Germany. You got this.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Munich
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They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Munich
Munich, this southern German city is bursting with history, culture, cuisine, and fun! Moreover, it’s a relatively rich city, meaning curated art, architecture, green parks, and clean streets are always at your fingertips.
Whether you’re a culture vulture, a history buff, a party animal visiting the Oktoberfest, or anything in between, there’s something for everyone in Munich!
If you’re visiting Munich and you’re still not sure where to stay, you can’t go wrong in Altstadt! It’s a microcosm of everything on offer in the city, it is well-connected to the rest of the neighbourhoods in this guide.
For a budget option, check out Wombats City Hostel Munich for its excellent social atmosphere and central location.
For something more upmarket, Hotel Blauer Bock is my favourite hotel in the city. It’s got a central location, is a modern hotel with chic décor, and a very reasonable price point.
Have I missed anything? Let me know in the comments below!
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Germany.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Munich.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Munich instead.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in Munich to plan your trip.
- Planning out an itinerary for Munich is a great way to maximise your time.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for Europe.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Europe backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
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