Where to Stay In Munich: Best Areas & Hotels (By a Local)

When people think of Munich, beautiful architecture, pretzels, beer, and Oktoberfest often come to mind.

But let me tell you, Munich has so much more to offer. With a population of 1.5 million, it's the capital city of Bavaria and very rich in history and culture. You can dive into the fascinating history of southern Germany, try many traditional delicacies, and explore stunning castles and palaces.

Deciding where to book a hotel or which neighborhood to stay in is never easy. That's why I put together a list of my favorite areas and hotels to help you narrow down where to stay in Munich.

Best areas to stay in Munich

South Munich

The southern districts offer an incredible Munich experience! You'll be in the heart of the action, with easy access to the city centre. The best areas to stay for the first time include the charming Old Town, lively Isarvorstadt, and picturesque Au-Haidhausen.

North Munich

If you're in Munich and you're seeking a more local and cultural experience away from the crowds, then the northern districts of Munich might be perfect for you! Here, you'll find Maxvorstadt, Nymphenburg, and Schwabing, which are all a little outside of the popular Old Town.

1. Where to stay in Munich for first-timers & shopping: Old Town (Altstadt)

In the Old Town of Munich, you'll find everything you could possibly be looking for. It's the historic city centre of Munich, filled with charming cobblestone streets and expansive medieval squares.

Around every corner, there's a traditional restaurant, a cozy beer garden, or a quirky little cafe waiting to be discovered. And don't forget about the designer boutiques and souvenir shops too.

Some of the most popular and stunning landmarks in the Old Town of Munich include the city's main square Marienplatz, the Munich Residenz, and the Victuals Market. Stay here to explore and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this wonderful German city!

FYI: The Munich Old Town is by far the most expensive and luxurious area in Munich.

Best area for:

• First-timers

• Shopping

• Luxury

• Historic buildings & sightseeing

Things to do in Old Town

If you're in Munich, make sure to put sightseeing at the top of your list. The New Town Hall is one of Munich's most famous landmarks and is definitely worth a visit. You can climb to the top and get a bird's eye view from the observation deck as well.

Right next door is St Peter's Chruch, also known as “Alter Peter”, which is said to be the origin of the entire city. And don't miss the Victuals Market, a super fun farmers market right in the heart of the city. You'll find all kinds of Bavarian delicacies there, from pretzels to sausages and cheeses.

There are also two incredible locations I want to share with you: the Bavarian State Opera and the Munich Residenz, the former Royal Palace turned museum. Trust me, both are a must-visit when you're in Munich!

Let's stick to the delicacies and not forget about the famous Hofbräuhaus in Munich. It's my absolute favorite beer house in Germany! With its traditional design, live music, and 1L beers paired with traditional German dishes, it's the perfect place to visit any time of the day.

Best hotels to stay in Old Town

($$$) Hotel Bayerischer Hof

The Hotel Bayerischer Hof is perhaps the best luxury hotel in central Munich. It has everything you would expect from a 5-star hotel, such as a spa, 5 different gourmet restaurants, and luxury suites in a very central location.

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($$) Platzl Hotel Superior

A more affordable yet still fairly luxurious option is the mid-range Platzl Hotel Superior. The hotel provides a traditional atmosphere with its wooden decor, as well as its own beer garden and traditional Bavarian restaurant. Plus, it's in a central location, close to many sights.

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($$) Hotel an der Oper

The modern Hotel an der Oper is another more affordable option right in the heart of Old Town. This is perfect for those who want to be close to all the main attractions but don't want to splurge on a luxury hotel.

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2. Where to stay in Munich for budget travelers & best area to stay for Oktoberfest: Isarvorstadt (Ludwigvorstadt)

If you're planning a visit to Munich without breaking the bank, Isarvorstadt (Ludwigvorstadt) is the perfect choice. It used to be the Jewish quarter and offers an authentic local experience.

This neighborhood is packed with charming bars, cozy cafes, classic pubs, and traditional restaurants, making it one of the trendiest areas in Munich. And the best part? It's conveniently located near Munich's iconic attractions and landmarks.

By the way, if you're here for Oktoberfest, this is the place to stay. It happens right here in Isarvorstadt every year at the Theresienwiese.

FYI: Note that during Oktoberfest, even budget accommodation is more expensive, no matter where you are in the city.

Best area for:

• Budget travelers

• Couples

• Foodies

• Oktoberfest, annually held in September/October

Things to do in Isarvorstadt

One of the must-do activities here is visiting the Oktoberfest, but even if you're not here at the right time, you can still have a great time enjoying a big beer and some delicious traditional food at the Bavariapark Beer Garden. 

Another recommendation is to explore St. Paul's Church, the second largest church in Munich, with its bell tower reaching nearly 100 meters tall. I highly recommend you climb to the tower's summit for a breathtaking panoramic vista extending from Munich to the majestic Alps!

From here, you can easily get down to the Isar River and wander along. It's most beautiful in summer but also charming in spring and autumn, with trees changing with the season.

Best hotels to stay in Isarvorstadt

($$) Hotel Gio

The Hotel Gio is a favorite luxury hotel in Isarvorstadt. It's a great option if you want to stay somewhere cozy and comfortable without spending too much money.

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($$) Lizz Hotel Munich

The Lizz Hotel Munich is an affordable yet luxurious option. It's a good pick for couples who are looking for a romantic getaway in Munich in a convenient location.

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($) Hotel Pension Haydn

For those on a tighter budget, the Hotel Pension Haydn is your best bet. It's one of the cheapest options in Isarvorstadt and yet offers modern and comfortable rooms with all the necessary amenities. 

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3. Where to stay in Munich for art, culture & nightlife: Maxvorstadt

Maxvorstadt is truly the heart and soul of the culture and art scene in Munich! You'll find many museums, art galleries, and two popular universities in this almost edgy neighborhood.

Not to mention, there are plenty of green spaces to relax in and loads of fantastic restaurants and cafes to take a lunch break or have a fancy dinner. And when the sun sets, Maxvorstadt comes alive with its buzzing nightlife, boasting lively beer houses and clubs that never sleep.

The best part is that you are still just a 30-minute walk from the Old Town and from the Munich Central Train Station, so you really get the best of both worlds.

Best area for:

• Museums

• Art galleries

• Nightlife

• Younger crowd

Things to do in Maxvorstadt

Maxvorstadt in Munich is a cultural hub, home to several world-class museums, including the Alte Pinakothek, Neue Pinakothek, and Pinakothek der Moderne, making it a haven for art enthusiasts, history buffs, and lovers of contemporary art.

If you're more into the vibrant nightlife of Maxvorstadt, let me tell you about my two favorite bars: Bei Otto and Bar Sehnsucht. They're super cozy and traditional and perfect for grabbing a beer or cocktail to kick off your night.

Looking for some relaxation? Head to the nearby Englischer Garten, one of the world's largest urban parks, renowned for its serene landscapes, meandering streams, and the iconic Chinese Tower, which also houses a beer garden, how convenient!

Best hotels to stay in Maxvorstadt

($$$) Hotel Antares

The Hotel Antares is an upscale option in Maxvorstadt, located just a few minutes walk from the city center. The hotel features modern and luxurious rooms with all the necessary amenities.

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($$) Hotel Hauser

The Hotel Hauser is another great mid-range option in Maxvorstadt. The hotel offers modern yet cozy rooms with a touch of Bavarian elegance and warmth that will make your stay all the more enjoyable.

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($) Hotel-Pension am Siegestor

The Hotel-Pension am Siegestor is a great budget option in Maxvorstadt. It's conveniently located just minutes away from the main attractions. Moreover, the hotel features modern and comfortable rooms, and a superb breakfast is also available every morning.

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4. Where to stay in Munich for families: Au-Haidhausen

Au-Haidhausen is a delightful residential neighborhood nestled along the riverbanks, directly opposite the charming Altstadt and a great place to stay in Munich if traveling with family.

It's a great place to relax and enjoy the beautiful architecture. Go for a wander or have a picnic in the park along the river, and check out some of the delicious international cafes and restaurants in the area.

Au-Haidhausen is packed with activities and attractions that will excite and entertain everyone in the family. From public pools and cinemas to climbing walls and parks, there's plenty to see and do in this part of the city.

And don't forget to relax and enjoy a stunning sunset along the beautiful riverbanks after a long day of sightseeing.

Best area for:

• Families

• Relaxation

Things to do in Au-Haidhausen

In Au-Haidhausen, you'll find the absolute coolest activities for the whole family, especially for the little ones. If you're ever in need of a break from sightseeing in the Old Town, this is the place to be.

My personal favorite activities that kids will absolutely love include the Müllersches Volksbad Public Pool, the Munich Observatory, and Boulderworld Munich.

Another nearby highlight is the Deutsches Museum, one of the world's largest and most comprehensive science and technology museums, offering a fascinating exploration of human innovation and technological advancements throughout history.

After a long day of entertaining the kids, you're bound to get hungry. My go-to spots in the area, especially with a bigger group, are the Spezlwirtschaft, which serves traditional Bavarian food, or if you're up for something different, try some Nepalese dishes at Nepal Haus.

Best hotels to stay in Au-Haidhausen

($$$) Moma1890 Boutique Hotel

The Moma1890 Boutique Hotel is a modern hotel in Au-Haidhausen that offers great amenities and services. It's perfect for families looking for a comfortable place to stay with all the necessary facilities.

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($$) Hotel Christl München Innenstadt

The Hotel Christl München Innenstadt is an excellent mid-range option in Au-Haidhausen. It's a great choice for families looking to be close to the major attractions in Old Town while still enjoying their own personal space and comfort.

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($) Motel One München-Haidhausen

The Motel One München-Haidhausen is my favorite among all the budget hotels in the area. They serve a great breakfast every morning, and its central location makes it super easy to reach all the fun and cultural attractions in the city center.

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5. Where to stay in Munich for the coolest neighborhood: Schwabing

Schwabing is hands down the coolest district in Munich because it has it all! From luxury shopping to hipster cafes, trendy restaurants, and super cool nightlife scene, it's the perfect blend of different worlds that make Schwabing so outstanding. 

One of Schwabing’s most famous attractions is the Englischer Garten, a massive urban green space spanning over 900 acres. Here, you will also find the Eisbach River, Munich's own little surf spot!

Best area for:

• Laid-back vibes

• Nightlife

• Younger crowds

Things to do in Schwabing

If you're really into surfing, you've got to check out Schwabing! The Eisbach River in Englischer Garten Park is an amazing surf spot with its ice-cold river waves. But even if you're not a surfer yourself, it's still so much fun to watch the surfers while enjoying a cold beer or a tasty hotdog.

Have a stroll along Leopoldstraße, Schwabing's main street, lined with charming shops, cafes, and restaurants, offering a mix of shopping and people-watching.

And for all you nightlife lovers out there, let me tell you, Freiheitshalle in Schwabing is hands down one of the coolest music venues in Germany. It's actually an old power plant, and depending on the event, you can catch some hilarious live comedy or dance the night away. 

Best hotels to stay in Schwabing

($$$) Schwabinger Wahrheit

The Schwabinger Wahrheit is an upscale hotel located in the heart of Schwabing. It's a great choice for those who want to be located within walking distance of all the trendy bars and restaurants, as well as the hipster cafes and other little gems that you can find in this awesome neighborhood. 

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($$) La Mansion Vi Vadi Hotel

The La Mansion Vi Vadi Hotel is my favorite mid-range option in Schwabing. It's super modern and luxurious, yet cozy and comfortable – making it the perfect place to stay if you're looking for a cool spot right in the middle of all the action. 

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($) Gästehaus der Katholischen Akademie in Bayern

The Gästehaus der Katholischen Akademie in Bayern is a great budget option in Schwabing. It's a simple but cozy hotel with all the necessary amenities and services that will make your stay comfortable. Plus, it's located in a central location and is within walking distance of Schwabing Center.

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6. Where to stay in Munich away from the crowds: Nymphenburg

Nymphenburg is the perfect place to stay if you're looking for a peaceful and quiet getaway while still being close enough to the city center to explore all of Munich's most popular attractions.

This beautiful residential area has everything from sprawling gardens and palaces to lush green parks and nature reserves – it's like a little oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the historic centre! 

Plus, Nymphenburg has some of the most beautiful sights in Munich! You can explore the grand Nymphenburg Palace, take a romantic stroll through the magnificent gardens, or simply relax under a shady tree with a picnic basket.

Best area for:

• Relaxation

• Couples

• Peace and quiet

Things to see & do in Nymphenburg

The big star of the show here really is the Nymphenburg Palace – this Baroque-style palace has been standing since 1664 and is now a museum. Take a guided tour of the palace to learn all about its history, or simply wander through the beautiful gardens for some quiet time away from it all. 

Discover one of the biggest beer gardens in Munich, Königlicher Hirschgarten. It's especially bustling during Oktoberfest, but it's one of my absolute favorite spots for a delicious traditional lunch or a refreshing cold beer any time of the year.

Best hotels to stay in Nymphenburg

($$$) Hotel Kriemhild am Hirschgarten

The Hotel Kriemhild am Hirschgarten is a traditional hotel in Nymphenburg that offers great amenities and services. It's perfect for couples or anyone who wants to stay in this romantic area away from the crowds while still being close enough to all the attractions of Munich's city center. 

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($$) Super 8 by Wyndham Munich City West

The Super 8 Hotel is a great mid-range option in Nymphenburg. Its prime location is close to the Hirschgarten, making it easy for guests to explore the nearby attractions, as well as being within walking distance of all the major sights in central Munich

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($) Amalienburg Boutique & Boarding Hotel

When visiting Munich and you are looking for something that doesn't break the bank, the Amalienburg – Boutique & Boarding Hotel is the perfect option. Located in a quiet and residential area, it's just a short drive away from all the popular attractions in Munich. Plus, they offer great amenities for a budget hotel, including free Wi-Fi and an on-site restaurant. 

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Where to stay in Munich – Frequently Asked Questions

💸 Is Munich expensive?

Honestly, yes! Munich is undeniably one of the most expensive cities in Germany. Prices for things like accommodation, food, and transportation are on the higher side. But don't worry, there are plenty of ways to keep your expenses in check. When you are visiting Munich, you can consider staying a little further away from the city center, using public transport, or exploring more affordable restaurants.

📍 What is the cheapest area in Munich?

The cheapest area to stay in Munich would have to be the Isarvorstadt. Here, you'll find many budget hotels and hostels as well as plenty of affordable restaurants and bars. Plus, it's still close enough to explore all the major tourist attractions in the city center. 

🍺 Where should I stay for the Oktoberfest?

The best place to stay for Oktoberfest is Isarvorstadt. This area is home to some of the biggest beer gardens in Munich and offers plenty of fun activities, from shopping to people-watching. Plus, the Theresienwiese, the place where the Oktoberfest is held, is right in the middle of Isarvorstadt.

🚗 Do I need a car in Munich?

No, when you are visiting Munich, you don't need a car to get around. The city has an impressive public transport system that is efficient and reliable. From trams and buses to the U-Bahn and S-Bahn trains, you can easily get around without having to worry about parking or traffic.

❓ Should I visit Munich or Berlin?

That's really up to personal preference and what you're looking for in a city. Munich is often referred to as the more traditional, conservative city of the two, while Berlin is known for its crazy nightlife, creative arts scene, and funky street art. So, if you're looking for something more eclectic, then Berlin might be a better option. But if you want to experience classic German culture and great Bavarian food, Munich can be an amazing choice.

Where to Stay in Munich – Final Words

Munich is truly one of Germany's most beautiful and extravagant cities! You'll discover stunning castles, palaces, and mouthwatering traditional German food. The architecture is simply breathtaking, and there are plenty of charming beer gardens to enjoy. Plus, it's an ideal base for exploring southern Germany and the Alps.

Just a heads up, Munich can be a bit pricey compared to other European destinations, but don't worry, there are budget-friendly ways to see the city. Hopefully, this guide has shed some light on Munich and made your decision on where to stay in Munich a little bit easier.