Transportation in Munich
Sandwiched between the winding River Isar and the green expanse of the English Garden (Englischer Garten), Munich is the perfect size to explore on foot or two wheels. Its different quarters boast many unexpected architectural delights and unusual boutiques, so don't be afraid to venture off the beaten track.With a manageable size and very reliable transport links, Munich is an exceptionally easy city to explore.Waltz off to many attractions on foot from the central square, Marienplatz. Take the tram, S-Bahn (surburban train) or U-Bahn (underground) north to reach the fashionable Schwabing district and the arty Maxvorstadt quarter, with its major galleries. Head west for the stylish Nymphenburg district, with its palace and botanical gardens. Travel south over the River Isar for Sendling, home of the Oktoberfest, and east for the smart neighbourhoods of Haidhausen and Bogenhausen.
Read more about transport from and to the airport
U Bahn & S Bahn
Munich's rail network – comprising eight underground lines (U-Bahn) and ten urban rail (S-Bahn) lines – is fast, convenient and inexpensive. Zones 1-4 cover the inner city, while all-zone tickets will take you all the way to the airport. Stamp your ticket in one of the blue Entwerter machines before going down to the platform, unless you have a Tageskarte (day travelcard).
Tram
Munich's ten Strassenbahn (tram) routes go straight to many of the city's main attractions.
Bus
Munich's bendy buses are fast and efficient, and the system is easy to navigate.
Foot
The centre of Munich is compact and easily manageable on foot.
Taxi
Unless you are out after midnight, public transportation is the best way to travel around Munich. The city's licensed taxis (typically cream-coloured Mercedes) are easy to spot, but generally quite expensive.
Rent your car
Parking in Munich is not an easy task; you can park in blue zones (indicated by a blue line) for €0.50 for 12 minutes from 8am-7pm on weekdays. If there’s no line, you can’t park at all. Hotel car parks charge around €22 per day.
Transportation Tips
The CityTourCard includes a day ticket for use on public transport as well as a discount card valid at more than 30 tourist attractions. They are on sale at all U- and S-Bahn stations as well as MVG Customer Centres. Driving in the home of BMW is stress-free, but parking can be a challenge.
Special Transportation
Bike
Munich is a very cycle-friendly city. Look out for the red-and-white "DB" bikes for hire. Simply call the telephone number on the bike to release the bike lock. When you've finished cycling, you can leave it at any of the DB bike racks around the city.
