Weekend in Munich

11 destinations for a weekend in Munich (with insider tips)

Have you packed your lederhosen and dirndl skirt? Then a warm ‘Griass Gott’ and welcome to Munich! The state capital of the Bavarian Free State is a fantastic destination with plenty of history, unique architecture, traditional Bavarian cuisine and so many places to see!

Discover the city together with us. Scandic München Macherei is located in the east of Munich where an innovative and vibrant center for art, gastronomy, design, and future projects has developed. This new district has been awarded for its sustainability and is ideally situated just a few minutes by train from the sometimes-overcrowded city center.

We have put together a two-day tour for your weekend break in Munich during which you can explore the most beautiful places and attractions in the city, linger in quiet squares, and of course stop for a hearty bite to eat.

Day 1 – Start of the tour: Scandic München Macherei

The starting point for our tour of Munich is Scandic München Macherei. After an energy boost from our extensive breakfast buffet, you can explore our suggested tour route either in a relaxed manner by public transport, or by bike, or even on foot if you enjoy walking.

Duration of the tour on foot: approx. 5 hours

Duration of the tour by bicycle: approx. 3 hours

Duration of the tour by public transport: approx. 2.5 hours

Destination 1: Frauenkirche church

For those travelling by public transport, we recommend you take the no. 21 tram towards Westfriedhof and get off at the Marienplatz stop. Duration approx. 20 minutes. You can get to Marienplatz by bicycle in approx. 15 minutes, and approx. 50 minutes if you are walking.

You immediately see Frauenkirche church when you get to Marienplatz. This late-Gothic church dates back to the 15th century and is one of the most famous attractions in Munich. It’s an absolute must to visit.

Did you know that only a few buildings are allowed to be taller than the church’s two distinctive towers?

You can enjoy a spectacular view of Munich from its 100-metre-high towers.

TIP: you can already see and admire the towers of Frauenkirche from the top floors of Scandic München Macherei.

Destination 2: Marienplatz square

Marienplatz is the famous center of Munich, and there are plenty of shops and restaurants around the square, which is a popular meeting place for Munich residents and visitors to the city.

This is also where the pedestrian zone begins. If you prefer to interrupt the tour now and instead go on an extensive shopping spree, then this is the place to start. Feel free to set off right away.

What you absolutely must see at Marienplatz: the famous Alte Rathaus (Old Town Hall), Neue Rathaus (New Town Hall), and Peterskirche (St Peter’s Church). The latter is also the second stop on our tour.

Destination 3: Peterskirche church

Do you already know what Alter Peter is?

Alter Peter (Old Peter) is the name of the tower of the oldest parish church, from where you can enjoy a breathtaking view over Munich.

One of the famous art treasures in the church is the 300-year-old Baroque altar.

Feeling a little hungry at this point, or is your stomach already rumbling? Then the next destination will be a culinary highlight for you!

Destination 4: Viktualienmarkt market

Viktualienmarkt is located just 3 minutes from Peterskirche on foot. The market has been held every day except Sundays and public holidays since 1807 and has permanent stalls.

It was originally a farmers’ and herb market, but today it is the perfect place for both established and budding gourmets.

You are guaranteed to find everything here, from traditional Bavarian to exotic produce. Whether you’re looking for a light snack, some exciting spices, or food for a dinner with friends – you’re sure to find what you’re looking for.

So, did you manage to satisfy your hunger? Then let us take you on a short 12-minute walk to the next destination on our tour.

Destination 5: Residenz palace & Odeonsplatz square

Odeonsplatz is an absolute visual highlight thanks to such buildings as the Feldherrnhalle (Field Marshals' Hall) and Theatinerkirche (Theatine Church)!

Right next to Odeonsplatz is the largest city center palace in Germany – the Residenz.

It’s worth taking a look inside the Residenz to see the magnificent Herkulessaal (Hercules Hall), the Treasury, and its many other historic rooms.

Its park is a green oasis and the perfect place to enjoy a stroll and short break from the city. Next to the park is the green heart of Munich – nowhere is more beautiful than the Englischer Garten (English Garden), which is located right next to Odeonsplatz.

Destination 6: Englischer Garten park

Englischer Garten is one of the largest parks in the world.

It is famous, amongst other things, for the Eisbach wave, a popular spot for surfers.

The park extends over 375 hectares and there’s plenty of space to relax and enjoy a picnic.

One lively spot is the Chinese tower. Here, you have the option of enjoying a ‘Mass’ (litre glass) of beer outside.

Wow, it’s so late already! We recommend ending your day in the traditional way with some Bavarian delicacies and a beer.

Destination 7: Munich Hofbräuhaus tavern

After such an active day, you more than deserve a ‘Mass’ in the famous tavern Hofbräuhaus. It’s about a 10-minute walk from the last stop, Englischer Garten, to Hofbräuhaus.

Hofbräuhaus is known for its rustic Bavarian atmosphere, delicious beer, and hearty food.

This is a popular spot, so we recommend making a reservation beforehand.

You can bring your day to a close here and walk to the Nationaltheater stop and take the no. 21 tram back to your hotel (on Schlüsselbergstrasse).

Tip: If you choose the active tour on foot, we recommend you take the route in the following order:

Viktualienmarkt – Peterskirche – Marienplatz – Frauenkirche – Odeonsplatz – Englischer Garten – Hofbräuhaus

Day 2 – Relaxed tour of the factory district Berg-am-Laim

After an extensive sightseeing tour on Saturday, we recommend a more relaxed tour on Sunday of the new neighborhood Berg-am-Laim.

Berg-am-Laim enjoys a lively atmosphere thanks to its bars, cafés, and artistic influences.

Destination 8: Werksviertel factory district

An extraordinary and creative urban quarter has emerged in Werksviertel, with a wide selection of art, music, and entertainment.

This up-and-coming trendy district offers a variety of studios, restaurants, galleries and rooftop bars. Explore the former halls of the Pfanni factory and have a giggle at the fun street names with everything from Knödelplatz (dumpling square) to Kartoffelgleis (potato track) and Püreelinie (mashed potato line).

At Werksviertel, you’ll also find Hi-Sky – one of the tallest transportable Ferris wheels in the world.

Destination 9: Container of Modern Art

Here comes a genuine insider tip for all art lovers: the Container of Modern Art is not as crowded as other art exhibitions and museums, and it has some real treasures.

You can admire its constantly changing exhibitions in a calm and pleasant atmosphere. Many regional and international artists exhibit their works here. And the best thing: entry is free.

Destination 10: Ostpark

If you’re looking for a green getaway and fancy a stroll through a park, then head to Ostpark. There’s a large lake in Ostpark as well as Michaeligarten, a popular beer garden, which is of course an absolute must in Munich!

For kids, the park has the large Maulwurfhausen adventure playground and a skateboard park.

Destination 11: Michaelibad indoor pool

If the weather isn’t cooperating, Michaelibad pool is located right next to the park.

This indoor pool has a large relaxation suite and bathing facilities for the whole family to enjoy.

Round off your weekend tour in Munich:

Stop for a bite to eat at our restaurant in Scandic München Macherei.

Let your weekend trip, with its many adventures draw to an enjoyable close at our hotel. In our hotel restaurant, you can enjoy a varied selection of creative and seasonal dishes prepared in the Scandinavian style. Relax in the cozy atmosphere and listen to the gentle crackle of our wood oven in our open kitchen. If the weather is fine, you can take a seat on our welcoming restaurant terrace and let us pamper you.