(4% OFF) Where to Stay in Munich in 2024 ✔️ 5 Areas & Hotels

Are you looking for the best areas and hotels for your stay in Munich? Awesome! München was my home for many years, so I have the best tips for great hotels and neighborhoods where to stay in Munich!

Spoiler alert: Munich Old Town is the best area! Especially for first timers, since most of the main attractions are there. But this article has many more areas for different tastes and budgets.

I have done extensive research and hand-picked the best hotels in all price categories for you. All of them have amazing reviews so the only thing you need to do is make sure you book them in advance – the good ones tend to sell out quickly!

If you’re in a hurry…

Here are the best hotels in Munich Old Town, the best area for first-timers!

• Best luxury hotel: Mandarin Oriental
• Best mid-range hotel: Hotel Torbräu
• Best budget hotel: Hotel MIO by AMANO

Watch my video, it will give you a visual explanation of all the areas:

Which area should you choose?

If you’re confused with all the different areas, here you have a map where you can see everything clearly:

The capital city of Bavaria is located in the South of the country, and offers a wide range of exciting activities and sights.

These are the TOP areas to stay in Munich:

1. Munich Old Town – where to stay for the first time
2. Maxvorstadt – for easy access to museums and nightlife
3. Schwabing – an ideal area for couples
4. Ludwigsvorstadt-Isarvorstadt – for bustling cafés and bars 
5. Au-Haidhausen – top area for families

1. Munich Old Town – where to stay in Munich for the first time

When I was living in Munich, this was definitely the first area I would take my friends from abroad to see. Why?

Old Town, with its cobblestone streets and historic charm, offers a captivating blend of Bavarian culture and history. You’ll find yourself surrounded by iconic landmarks like Marienplatz, the stunning Frauenkirche, and the Viktualienmarkt, where you can savor delicious Bavarian weisswurst and drink beer!

In the historic centre you can see the famous New Town Hall with its Glockenspiel, and the exquisite Munich Residenz, a former palace, is now open as a museum. 

Did you know Marienplatz has been Munich city’s main square since 1158? St. Peter’s church is the oldest parish church in the city!

This area is great for traditional Bavarian restaurants, so I recommend Hofbräuhaus München which has an epic beer garden! 

If you are traveling in December, you will be able to enjoy the Christmas Markets! The biggest one is located in the iconic central square, Marienplatz.

For more, check out my guide to the best things to do in Munich!

Luxury (€300 and up)

• Mandarin Oriental – feel like a star! This centrally-located hotel has all the main attractions steps away! Start the day with a free morning meal in the breakfast room, and enjoy sweeping views from the rooftop pool. 
• BEYOND by Geisel – if you are looking for hotels near Marienplatz, this one is right in it! Live in luxury with movie-like views of the New Town Hall. If you want to see other parts of the city, there is a nearby S-bahn station steps away!

Mid-range (€140 – €300)

• Hotel Torbräu – this hotel features a unique old-world style. It is located just a few minutes walk from the new town hall and the Deutsches museum! And every morning, a buffet breakfast is available for guests!
• Hotel Splendid-Dollmann – Perfect for those looking for a Munich boutique hotel! Located in Altstadt-Lehel, it features a 19th-century style with a lovely terrace garden to relax. A pro? It is within walking distance from the Isar River, and Frauenkirche is 0.6 miles (1 km) away!

Budget (up to €140)

• Hotel MIO by AMANO – dive into a hip hotel in the Old Town! Staying here, you will have restaurants and bars just outside your door. The paid bike rental service to discover the city is the cherry on top!
• Unsöld’s Factory Hotel – get value for money! This hotel is young and vibrant. It is located steps away from the Old Town attractions and the Eisbachwelle in the English Garden.

2. Maxvorstadt – close to museums and nightlife

Maxvorstadt was the first neighborhood built as an expansion of the city in 1808. The area has been a cultural hub ever since!

This was my neighborhood when I was living in Munich. Maxvorstadt is, without a doubt, my favorite area of the city, and the best area for an authentic local feel. 

This area is also known as the Museum Quarter. Here, you can find the Alte Pinakothek, the Pinakothek der Moderne, Museum Brandhorst, and more! 

PRO TIP: Did you know on Sundays entrance to most of the museums in the area costs only €1!?

It is super lively since it is the University area, and it is always filled with locals and students – so the café, bar, and restaurant game is strong!

One of my favorite spots in the city is Lost Weekend for a coffee and pastry if you want to feel like a Münchener. LOCAL TIP: visit on their theme nights to see local bands and open-stage shows!

Don’t forget to stop by the historical Königsplatz and relax under the sun! 

Another fantastic thing about this district is its convenient location. It is within easy walking distance to the Old Town, the English Garden, and even the München Hauptbahnhof, Munich’s central train station!

Luxury (€180 and up)

• Rocco Forte The Charles Hotel – looking for a 5 star hotel in Munich? This Munich luxury hotel is in a prime location, steps from Munich city center and Munich Central Station. The indoor pool is perfect for a relaxing swim!
• Eden Hotel Wolff – this hotel has a special old-world charm! It has everything you need, steps away. The old town, all of the Maxvorstadt museums, München Hauptbahnhof. And even a beer garden: Augustiner Keller! 

Middle-priced (€100 – €180)

• AdvaStay by KING’s – this hotel is modern and cozy! It is steps away from Munich’s central station and the museum quarter. I recommend the suite with a terrace to enjoy the city views!
• King’s Hotel First Class – dive into a classic look at King’s Hotel! It is located a short walk away from the largest beer garden in the area, the famous Augustiner beer garden. The hotel’s outdoor terrace is the perfect place to relax after a long day out!

Budget (up to €100)

• Augusten Hotel München – this hotel is simple but has everything you need for a comfortable stay! It is steps from Kunstareal, the main city center, and convenient transport links at Munich central station.
• Hotel-Pension am Siegestor – this property is ideal! It is in the heart of Maxvorstadt, steps away from the English Garden and the Old Town! The property offers free Wi-Fi and breakfast.

3. Schwabing – ideal area for couples

Did you know Schwabing has been known to be the former neighborhood of artists and writers since the 1900’s? It still has a bohemian vibe!

Another of my favorite neighborhoods! Definitely another great area for a local feel. Here, you can find Müncheners having a meal on a terrace, and students going bar hopping. It’s a great area for couples!

English Garden is one of the urban naked zones in the city! Don’t be surprised if you see people sunbathing or walking around in the nude there!

Münchner Freiheit is also a super vibrant area in Schwabing, with many bars and restaurants.

The best thing about this area is that it is next to Marxvorstadt, and it is home to a big chunk of the English Garden. And Central Munich is within walking distance, or you can access it easily with public transport.

There are many beer gardens here including the famous Beer Garden at the Chinese Tower in the lovely English Garden. As a local, I can also highly recommend Alles Wurscht, a hidden gem shhh!

Luxury (€220 and up)

• Das Nikolai Hotel – great location! Steps away from all the main restaurants and bars in the area and public transport links. Here you can start the day with a complimentary breakfast.
• Andaz Munich Schwabinger Tor – the location is fantastic, in between the Olympic Stadium and the English Garden. Relax in the onsite spa center and indoor swimming pool with your partner.

Mid-range (€150 – €220)

• Schwabinger Wahrheit by Geisel – great modern vibe! The location is perfect, in Hohenzollernstraße, near restaurants and transport links. I recommend the deluxe suite for couples, it comes with its own sauna.
• Hotel Leopold – located in a peaceful area! It’s near Potsdamer Station and steps away from Münchner Freiheit. The hotel comes with a stunning garden where you can enjoy a free breakfast.

Budget (up to €150)

• Gästehaus der Katholischen Akademie in Bayern – what an unbeatable location! Next to the English Garden, and a few minutes walk to Maxvorstadt! It features a romantic old-world vibe and a complimentary breakfast.
• Motel One München-Olympia Gate – stay in a modern hotel near Olympia Park and easy city access! Perfect for those looking for a peaceful retreat with all the city attractions minutes away.

4. Ludwigsvorstadt-Isarvorstadt – for bustling cafés and bars

This area is ideal all year round, but especially if you are visiting at the end of September and going to Oktoberfest! Theresienwiese, the area where Oktoberfest is held, is right here in the district.

München Hauptbahnhof is here, so you can take the train to wherever you please! 

Ludwigsvorstadt has a lively mix of cafes, boutiques, and cultural hotspots. You’ll be within walking distance of the picturesque Isar River, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a sunny picnic. 

If you’re traveling for Oktoberfest, you’ll need some hidden recommendations! If you are looking for cute cafés only locals visit, I recommend Diba Café Bar. It’s SUCH a cozy spot, and it’s open until late in case you feel like having a drink! 

Ludwigvorstadt-Isarvorstadt is within walking distance of the Old Town and offers easy access to the rest of the city!

Luxury (€250 and up)

• Sofitel Munich Bayerpost – feel like a star staying at Sofitel! It comes with an on-site restaurant, and all the rooms have a unique style and come with a view. Theresienwiese is only 0.6 miles (1km) away!
• 25 Hours Hotel Munich The Royal Bavarian – stay in a fun and luxurious hotel! It features modern rooms beautifully decorated. Use the bike service rental to visit the Old Town.

Mid-Range (€150 – €250)

• Excelsior by Geisel – beautiful 19th century style! This hotel is steps away from Munich Central Station and has easy access to the rest of the city! Enjoy a complimentary fancy breakfast before heading out!
• Hotel Metropol – this hotel is modern and chic! The perfect place to relax before heading to Oktoberfest or the Old Town. Which are only a 10-minute walk away.

Budget (up to €150)

• Euro Youth Hotel Munich – feel right at home in this budget accommodation! Meet other travelers with the fun-themed night held in the onsite bar. A great Munich hotel near train station.
• Hotel Eder – this hotel has a lovely traditional Bavarian style! It comes with a lovely terrace where you can relax and enjoy breakfast. All the main attractions are only 0.6 miles (1 km) away, including Theresienwiese. 

5. Au-Haidhausen – top area for families

Au-Haidhausen dates back to the 800s! It used to be the suburbs and a working-class area until the 19th century. Now it is a trendy residential area in the city!

This neighborhood is simply beautiful. It is a bit quieter than the center but still has plenty to do, making it perfect for families! 

One of my favorite things to do in the area was walking around the Maximilianeum, the parliament building. It’s a great spot to enjoy the city views with the rest of the locals and take amazing photos. 

The Maximilianeum is surrounded by beautiful greenery by the Isar River, perfect for strolling with the whole family.

Au-Haidhausen is home to Gasteig Philharmonic Hall, and they usually have concerts all year round.

I highly recommend you stop by Biergarten am Muffatwerk for a traditional meal. The place also works as a music venue!

You can spend the rest of the day at Isarstrand, a lovely beach in the city for a refreshing and relaxing day with your family.

Another huge pro about this area is that the East Station, Ostbahnhof, is located here, giving you easy access to the city’s public transport and long-distance trains.

Luxury (€200 and up)

• Hilton Munich City – enjoy the cozy rooms with fun themes for the whole family! The onsite restaurant comes with kid-friendly menus. The hotel is located near Rosenheimer Platz station, with easy access to the city center.
• JAMS Music Hotel Munich – this is a super hip hotel in Au-Haidhausen. The property is next to Gasteig station, and it’s a 10 minute walk to the Deutsches Museum. Plus there’s a free mini bar!

Mid-Range (from €150 to €200)

• Novotel München City – stay in a luxurious and stylish hotel! This property comes with a game room and a heated indoor pool. The location is great, 10 minutes away from Isarstrand. 
• MOMA1890 Boutique Hotel – join the hotel’s bike tour with your family! This hotel has an incredible style and comfortable rooms. It is located next to Ostbahnhof, with easy access to the city’s attractions.

Budget (up to €150)

• Motel One München – this budget hotel is perfect for small families. It comes with a beautiful garden, and it’s located only a 10-minute walk away from the Deutsches Museum.
• Marias Platzl – stay in a trendy and cozy hotel! The on-site restaurant offers traditional meals and kid-friendly menus. This property is within walking distance to the Isar River and the Old Town!

Best apartments in Munich City Center

If during your stay in Munich, you want to feel like a local and have more privacy, here you have the best apartments in a central location in Munich!

I have divided them into sections, so you can check them out depending on your budget!

Luxury (€250 and up)

• MAXIMILIAN MUNICH Apartments & Hotel – stay in a modern and cozy place! This hotel offers studios and apartments with private kitchens in the Old Town! 
• Executive apartment – feel right at home in this luxurious property! It is located just steps away from the Viktualienmarkt. This apartment is perfect for families of groups of friends.

Mid-Range (€150 – €200)

• Apartment in Maxvorstadt – this apartment looks so artsy! It is ideal for 2 guests and is located within walking distance to the museum quarter. My favorite feature is the balcony with views! 
• Schwan Locke – what a chic property! Stay at any of the studios and prepare homemade meals in a modern kitchen during your stay! Location? Super central, next to the main train station!

Budget (up to €150)

• Munich Finest Apartments – unbeatable location just steps away from the Old Town and Oktoberfest. The hotel offers studios and apartments with private kitchens, for up to 5 guests.
• Apartment in the Hearth – this property looks so homey! The location is unbeatable, right by Fraunhoferstrasse station. It can host 4 guests, and comes with a balcony.

👑 Luxury price:	€300
💵 Mid-range:	€150
🛏️ Budget:	€100
📍 Best area:	Munich Old City
🛎️ Best luxury hotel:	Mandarin Oriental
💵 Best mid-range hotel:	Hotel Torbräu
👛 Best budget hotel:	Hotel MIO by AMANO

Bonus 1: Where to stay for a Bayern Munich match

Traveling to Munich to see a Bayern Munich match in Allianz Arena and looking for accommodation? 

Great! I have 3 amazing hotels for you located within 40 minutes from the stadium with public transport. The hotel prices go from €100 to €250 a night per person!

Psst: If you would like to see Allianz Arena without all the crowds, I recommend you take this guided tour of the stadium!

• Steigenberger Hotel München – this hotel is located in Schwabing-Freimann. The U-bahn station is just steps away from the property. The hotel comes with a spa center to relax after a match!
• Motel One München-Parkstadt Schwabing – this stylish hotel is only a 10-minute car drive from Allianz Arena and the Old Town. Have a drink on their terrace and enjoy the city views!
• Star G Hotel Premium München Domagkstraße – a simple and classic hotel but with everything you need! It is located a 40-minute U-bahn ride away from Allianz Arena. It comes with a fitness center and an onsite restaurant!

Bonus 2: Best lodging in Munich near the airport

If you have a long layover and need a comfortable hotel to spend the night before catching a plane, here you have 3 great airport lodging options.

The prices per night for these properties go from €100 to €150 the night.

• Hilton Airport Hotel Munich – this hotel is right in Munich’s airport, so the location is super convenient. It comes with an indoor pool and spa and offers a free breakfast.
• Novotel München Airport – another great hotel inside Munich’s Airport! The property comes with an onsite restaurant and a free breakfast to catch a plane with a full belly!
• Mövenpick Hotel München-Airport – this place has a super trendy vibe and it’s only a 10-minute drive from the airport. The staff will book a taxi for you! Make sure you try out their free breakfast before catching your flight.

FAQs about where to stay in Munich

Conclusion

That is all for today, my lovely people! Those were the best 5 areas where to stay in Munich and the best hotels in each area for all budgets! 

In the end, I left 2 bonuses: where to stay for a Bayern Munich match and the best lodging near the airport. Plus an extra section with the best apartments in Munich!

To be honest, all the hotels mentioned in this article are amazing, but if I had to choose my favorite 2 I would go with:

• BEYOND by Geisel – I want to wake up to views of the New Town Hall and have all the attractions steps away from the hotel!
• AdvaStay by KING’s – the location is quite ideal since it is in Maxvorstadt and near the Old Town and the central station.

These hotels are super popular and get booked fast. You must book in advance if you want to secure these accommodations!

Which of these areas do you want to stay when visiting Munich? Let me know in the comments, and if you have any questions, I’ll be happy to help!

Until the next trip,

Daniela

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