
What Should You Pack for Munich?
Munich’s weather can change with the seasons, so pack accordingly! In spring and fall, layering is key—bring sweaters, long-sleeve shirts, and a light jacket for cool mornings and evenings. Summers are mild but can be warm during the day, so pack short-sleeve shirts and lightweight pants or dresses. Winters are cold and snowy, so a heavy coat, warm boots, and accessories like hats, gloves, and scarves are a must for staying warm while exploring the Christmas markets or walking around the city.
Make sure you’re prepared for: Visiting Marienplatz, exploring Nymphenburg Palace, enjoying a day at the Englischer Garten, attending Oktoberfest, and touring the BMW Museum.
Dress Code
Munich has a mix of casual and traditional style. For everyday sightseeing, you’ll fit right in with jeans, comfortable shoes, and a stylish jacket. If you’re visiting during Oktoberfest, traditional attire like lederhosen for men and dirndls for women are popular, but casual clothes work just as well! When visiting churches or cultural sites, modest dress is appreciated. For evenings out at a nice restaurant or beer hall, you might want to dress up a bit more with a dress or smart slacks.
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Spring
40 – 60°F
(4 – 15°C
)
Summer
55 – 75°F
(13 – 24°C
)
Fall
45 – 65°F
(7 – 18°C
)
Winter
25 – 40°F
(-4 – 5°C
)
Spring: Cool and rainy, with blooming flowers
Summer: Mild, with warm days and cool nights
Fall: Crisp & cool, some rain
Winter: Cold and snowy, with freezing temperatures
Spring
2.4 inches of rain
Summer
4.0 inches of rain
Fall
2.7 inches of rain
Winter
1.7 inches of rain (plus snowfall)
Tops & Layers
1. Short Sleeve Shirts: Great for warmer days exploring Munich’s outdoor spaces—I really liked these for days spent in the Englischer Garten!
2. Long Sleeve Shirts: Perfect for cooler mornings or layering under jackets, especially when visiting places like Marienplatz.
3. Sweaters: Essential for layering in the spring or fall when temperatures can drop quickly.
4. Casual Jacket: A light jacket is perfect for breezy days and evenings in Munich’s outdoor beer gardens.
5. Rain Jacket: Handy for Munich’s rainy days, especially during the summer months.
Bottoms & Dresses
1. Pants: Comfortable and practical for city exploring and day trips—I really liked these for walking around Munich’s parks and gardens!
2. Leggings: Great for layering or casual days spent sightseeing.
3. Shorts: A must for warmer summer days, especially when spending time at the Englischer Garten.
4. Dresses: Perfect for evenings out or attending a cultural event in Munich.
5. Skirt: Ideal for stylish daytime outings or visiting museums.
Shoes & Accessories
1. Shoes: Comfortable walking shoes are a must for Munich’s cobbled streets—I really liked these for long days of exploring the city!
2. Sandals: Perfect for warm summer days, especially if you’re visiting beer gardens or the Isar River.
3. Boots: Essential for winter visits, keeping your feet warm and dry in the snow.
4. Scarf: A cozy accessory for cooler days or adding style to your outfit while strolling around the city.
5. Swimsuit: Great if you plan to visit the Müller’sches Volksbad or the Isar River on warm days.
Luggage & Packs
1. Carry-On: Ideal for short trips or keeping essentials handy during your travels.
2. Daypack: Perfect for carrying water and snacks while exploring Munich’s many parks and attractions.
3. Purse: A practical yet stylish option for keeping your personal items secure while shopping or dining out.
4. Tote Bag: Useful for carrying extra layers or any shopping finds you might pick up at Munich’s markets.
Travel Essentials
- Reusable Water Bottle: A must-have for travel days and while exploring for the day.
- Packing Cubes: Helpful for staying organized rather than ending up with a heap of clothes in your luggage.
- Luggage Tags: Even if you’re not checking luggage, still good to have in case you misplace your bags.
- Luggage Locks: Can be handy even if you’re not checking luggage, making your backpack more pickpocket-proof.
- Sleep Mask: An eye mask is a game changer for helping you get quality sleep each night.
- White Noise Machine: Same as above. White noise machines have helped me get more consistent sleep.
- Ear Plugs: Much better than the generic foam ones that never stay in my ears.
- Jewelry Case: Especially nice for organizing necklaces and not getting them all tangled.
- Dry Bag: An item to bring if you plan to do a lot of water activities or boat trips.
- Water Shoes: Same as above. Great to bring if you plan to do water activities or boat trips.
- Travel Umbrella: Only if you’re going somewhere where it’s going to be wet and rainy (but not too windy).
- Deck of Cards / Fox in the Forest: I love playing card games while traveling. It’s a fun way to pass the time.
- Portable Charger: It’s surprising how often you don’t have an outlet when you need one, and your phone is essential for everything from directions to your mobile boarding pass.
- Universal Travel Adapter: This universal adapter works in 200+ countries. Great for airports too.
- E-sim: I’ve used Airalo in four different countries now, and it’s the best solution for using data abroad.
- Phone: Currently travel with an iPhone 13 Pro, which also works as my camera for most trips.
- Tablet: I use my iPad mainly for watching shows and movies and checking emails while traveling.
- Headphone Splitter: I use this one with my iPad Air so I can watch shows with my husband on long flights.
- GoPro: A great camera for underwater photography or adventure activities.
- Memory Card for GoPro: This is the one I use for my GoPro, high-quality and reliable.
- Waterproof Phone Case: Even with my GoPro, I end up using this all the time since phone quality photos are so good now.
- Kindle: I love traveling with my Kindle and being able to read multiple books on a trip without the extra weight.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: These wraparound ones are a must for long plane rides if I want to get any sleep. I also bring Airpods for local bus trips or on-the-go travel when I want to carry something smaller.
- Air Tags: Great if you’re checking luggage in case it gets lost or stolen.
- Chargers: Don’t forget all the chargers you’ll need for the electronics listed above.
- Toiletry Bag: Great for going through security, and they make it easier to find what I want to use.
- Reusable Containers for Toiletries: I use reusable containers so I don’t need to buy expensive travel-sized products.
- Electric Toothbrush: I’ve tried those tiny travel toothbrushes, and they just don’t work for me.
- Toothpaste: These are the perfect travel size that lasts about a month or so for two people.
- Floss: Any floss will do.
- Natural Deodorant: I finally discovered a good natural deodorant. Plus, it’s small, so it’s perfect for travel.
- Shampoo: I get the large size and then just put it in my mini travel containers.
- Conditioner: Same as above. I don’t worry about bringing body wash since I’m okay using whatever’s provided.
- Panty Liners: For when you want some extra protection. Also great for sweaty travel days to keep you more dry.
- Tampons: I like that these are made without plastic, and they’re easy to put into small purses and travel with.
- Tide to Go Pen: Surprisingly handy for getting out those random stains or spills.
- Travel Laundry Detergent: These are useful because you can use them for hand washing or as washer detergent.
- Travel Clothesline: Handy when you need to wash your clothes but realize most of the world doesn’t use dryers.
- Hairbrush: I don’t use a travel-size version because it’s not worth it for me. I’d rather have a full-size brush.
- Hair Ties: Any brand works, but I also make sure to have plenty on hand in my bags.
- After Sun Lotion: Great to have if you’re traveling during the hotter months and expect to get a lot of sun.
- Face Sunscreen: I’ve tried many sunscreen brands, and this is the best face sunscreen I’ve found.
- Body Sunscreen: Reef-safe, easy to spread, and smells good.
- Face Cleanser: I usually get a regular-size bottle and then put it into my refillable travel containers.
- Moisturizer: I’ve tried many fancy moisturizers, and I’ve realized that the simplest ones often work best for me.
- Overnight Face Mask: I use this in daily life as well, but during travel it’s especially good because it’s so hydrating.
- Lip Balm: I’ve been a Burts Bees stan for over a decade, and I don’t think I’ll change anytime soon.
- Makeup: The three essentials I always bring are lip gloss/lipstick, my Clinique CC Cream + makeup brush, and mascara. Everything else is added on depending on the vibes of the trip.
- Travel Razor: I love this size and how easy it is to change the razor heads once a week.
- Razor Replacements: I usually bring enough to replace the razor head once per week while traveling.
- Hydrating Face Sheets: I pack a couple of these to use after long plane rides, great for hydrating your face.
- Travel Mirror: This is a luxury item, but it’s surprising how often I use it when there’s only one bathroom.
- Dry Bar Blow Dryer Brush: Another luxury item. It’s bulky to bring (and I don’t always bring it), but it’s a versatile tool for looking more put together in non-humid destinations.
- Heat Protectant Spray: For the Dry Bar Brush.
- Bug Spray: The most effective spray I’ve found that doesn’t use DEET.
- Tylenol: The best remedy when a headache strikes.
- Motion Sickness Pills: You never know when you might get motion sickness, especially if you’re prone to it like me.
- Tums: Handy for dealing with indigestion or heartburn when eating foods different than you’re used to.
- Pepto Bismol: Another thing to help soothe an upset stomach.
- Other Travel Medications: Make sure to research what else you might need to bring for the destination.
- Electrolyte Powder: Great for staying hydrated, especially after a day in the sun or a long flight.
- Band-Aids: Useful for minor cuts and blisters.
- Anti-Septic Wipes: Keeps wounds clean and prevents infection.
- Unisom SleepMelts: Obviously optional, but these are the only way I’m able to sleep on planes.
- Melatonin: Helps with sleep, especially if you’re adjusting to a new time zone.
- Hand Sanitizer: Essential for keeping your hands clean when soap and water aren’t available.
- Passport
- Travel Visas (if needed)
- Travel Documents, Tickets, Boarding Passes & Booking Confirmations
- Driver’s License / International Driving Permit (if needed)
- Photocopy of Passport (hidden in your pack)
- Emergency Cash – I usually bring US $200 and hide it in 1-2 packs/purses I have with me on travel days in case of an emergency. I make sure it’s separate from my wallet.
- Credit / Debit Cards
- Travel Insurance – Nice to have in case of any medical or travel emergencies.
What to Know Before You Pack
- Layers: Munich’s weather can shift, especially in spring and fall, so packing layers will keep you comfortable throughout the day.
- Comfortable shoes: Munich’s streets and parks are perfect for walking, so pack good walking shoes.
- Prepare for rain: A rain jacket or umbrella is always a good idea, especially in the summer months.
- Pack warm clothes: Winters are cold, so bring a heavy coat and warm accessories to explore Munich’s outdoor attractions.

Munich Travel FAQs
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT MUNICH?
September is the best month to visit Munich. September’s also great because it’s the start of Oktoberfest, with pleasant weather for outdoor beer gardens and exploring the city’s parks. The crowds are larger, but the festive atmosphere makes it worth it!
WHAT FESTIVALS & EVENTS ARE THERE IN MUNICH?
Oktoberfest (September/October): A world-famous beer festival, drawing huge crowds for traditional Bavarian beer, food, and music—perfect for groups, solo travelers, and couples.
Christmas Markets (November/December): Charming markets with festive stalls selling holiday treats, crafts, and gifts, great for families, couples, and friends.
Starkbierfest (March): A lesser-known beer festival celebrating strong beer, ideal for those who want a quieter, more local experience.
WHERE SHOULD I GO IN MUNICH?
Munich offers a rich mix of history, culture, and outdoor activities. Start your day in Marienplatz to see the famous Glockenspiel, then visit the nearby Viktualienmarkt for local food. One of my favorite spots is the Englischer Garten, where you can relax by the lakes or watch the surfers at the Eisbach. Don’t miss Nymphenburg Palace for a taste of royal history, or take a day trip to Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial Site for a powerful and reflective experience.
HOW MANY DAYS DO I NEED TO VISIT MUNICH?
3-4 days is ideal to experience Munich’s main attractions like Marienplatz, Nymphenburg Palace, and the Englischer Garten. A weekend can cover the highlights.
Suggested Itineraries:
2 Days: On day one, visit Marienplatz, explore Viktualienmarkt, and tour Nymphenburg Palace. Spend day two relaxing in the Englischer Garten, touring the BMW Museum, and visiting the Residenz.
5 Days: Copy the 2-day itinerary and add: On day three, take a day trip to Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial. Spend day four exploring the Deutsches Museum and the English Garden. On day five, visit the Munich Residenz and enjoy Bavarian food at a traditional beer hall.
1 Week: Copy the 5-day itinerary and add: Spend day six visiting the Allianz Arena and catching a football match or taking a tour. On day seven, relax at the Müller’sches Volksbad, one of Munich’s famous art deco swimming pools.
10 Days: Copy the 1-week itinerary and add: On day eight, take a trip to Neuschwanstein Castle for a day of exploring Bavarian fairy-tale architecture. Spend day nine hiking in the Bavarian Alps. On day ten, enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the Isar River.
2 Weeks: Copy the 10-day itinerary and add: Spend day eleven visiting Salzburg, Austria, just a short train ride away. On day twelve, tour the Zugspitze, Germany’s highest peak, and on the final days, visit Munich’s many churches, markets, or take a relaxing day in the English Garden.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR 2 DAYS, 5 DAYS, 1 WEEK, 10 DAYS, AND 2 WEEKS IN MUNICH?
2 Days
- 2 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 1 Long Sleeve Shirt
- 1 Pair of Pants
- 1 Dress
- 2 Pairs of Socks
- 2 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Daypack
5 Days
- 4 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 2 Dresses
- 5 Pairs of Socks
- 5 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Daypack
1 Week
- 5 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 2 Pairs of Pants
- 2 Dresses
- 6 Pairs of Socks
- 6 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Daypack
10 Days
- 6 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 3 Pairs of Pants
- 3 Dresses
- 7 Pairs of Socks
- 7 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Daypack
2 Weeks
- 7 Short Sleeve Shirts
- 4 Long Sleeve Shirts
- 4 Pairs of Pants
- 4 Dresses
- 9 Pairs of Socks
- 9 Pairs of Underwear
- 1 Comfortable Shoes
- 1 Light Jacket
- 1 Daypack
WHAT SHOULD I NOT PACK FOR MUNICH?
High heels: Munich’s cobblestone streets make walking in heels uncomfortable.
Heavy winter coat: Layers are more practical than a single heavy coat for Munich’s winter weather.
WHAT SHOULD I BUDGET FOR A TRIP TO MUNICH ?
Airfare: $500-$1,200 depending on your starting location and season. Prices are higher around Oktoberfest.
Accommodation: $100-$300 per night, especially near Marienplatz or during festivals.
Transportation: $20-$50 for public transport and taxis—Munich has an efficient tram and train system.
Meals: $30-$80 per day depending on whether you eat at beer gardens or upscale restaurants.
Activities: $30-$100 per day depending on whether you visit museums or attend free events like Oktoberfest.
IS THERE A TIPPING CULTURE IN MUNICH? WHAT IS APPROPRIATE TO TIP?
Tipping is appreciated in Munich. It’s typical to round up the bill in restaurants and cafes by leaving a small tip (around 10%). For taxis, rounding up the fare is standard.
WHAT ARE SOME LOCAL TIPS I SHOULD KNOW ABOUT MUNICH BEFORE I VISIT?
- Bring cash: Many restaurants and shops in Munich prefer cash, so it’s handy to carry some euros.
- Plan ahead for Oktoberfest: If you’re visiting during Oktoberfest, make restaurant and hotel reservations early, as the city gets crowded.
- Dress warm in winter: Munich’s winters can be cold and snowy, so pack accordingly if you’re visiting the Christmas markets.
- Public transport is great: Munich’s trams, buses, and trains are reliable and easy to use, so take advantage of them to get around the city.