Where to Stay in Munich 2026 | Best Areas + Hotel Map
Munich combines Bavarian tradition with cosmopolitan style. From historic beer halls near Marienplatz to leafy streets near the English Garden, each area offers distinct character. The excellent public transport makes the entire center accessible, but during Oktoberfest (late Sep-early Oct), prices triple and availability vanishes - book 6+ months ahead or avoid entirely.
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Editor's Pick for First-Timers
Altstadt / Maxvorstadt border
Walking distance to Marienplatz, Viktualienmarkt, and Pinakotheken museums. Easy U-Bahn access to English Garden and day trips. Best blend of Bavarian tradition and cultural offerings.
Altstadt
Maxvorstadt
Schwabing
Glockenbachviertel
Haidhausen
Near Hauptbahnhof
Quick Guide: Best Areas
Things to Know
- • Immediate area around Hauptbahnhof can feel rough at night
- • Hotels on busy streets near Karlsplatz can be noisy
- • Oktoberfest area (Theresienwiese) is far from center - not ideal base
- • Some outer neighborhoods like Neuperlach are too far for tourist stays
Understanding Munich Geography
Munich's center is compact and walkable. The Altstadt (Old Town) centers on Marienplatz. Maxvorstadt (museums) and Schwabing (bohemian) lie north toward the English Garden. Glockenbachviertel and Haidhausen spread south near the Isar River. The Hauptbahnhof (central station) is west of the old town.
Neighborhood Overview
Explore different areas by price range. Click a neighborhood to learn more.
Accommodation Map
Check availability and prices across Booking.com, Vrbo, and more.
Best Neighborhoods in Munich
Altstadt (Old Town)
Best for: Marienplatz, Glockenspiel, Viktualienmarkt, Hofbräuhaus
"Bavarian heart with glockenspiel, beer halls, and traditional charm"
Pros
- Most central
- Walk to everything
- Iconic sights
Cons
- Very touristy
- Expensive
- Noisy beer halls
Maxvorstadt
Best for: Museums, university area, Kunstareal, café culture
"Intellectual neighborhood with world-class museums"
Pros
- Best museums
- Student atmosphere
- Near English Garden
Cons
- Less nightlife
- Can feel quiet
- Limited dining options
Schwabing
Best for: English Garden, bohemian heritage, cafés, residential elegance
"Former bohemian quarter now elegant and leafy"
Pros
- English Garden access
- Beautiful streets
- Great cafés
Cons
- Far from center
- Quiet nightlife
- Expensive
Glockenbachviertel
Best for: LGBTQ+ scene, trendy bars, boutiques, brunch culture
"Munich's most vibrant and inclusive neighborhood"
Pros
- Best nightlife
- Trendy restaurants
- LGBTQ+ friendly
Cons
- Limited hotels
- Can be noisy
- Far from museums
Haidhausen
Best for: French Quarter charm, Wiener Platz market, local atmosphere
"Village atmosphere with excellent dining and markets"
Pros
- Local feel
- Great restaurants
- Near Deutsches Museum
Cons
- Fewer sights
- Requires transport
- Quiet evenings
Near Hauptbahnhof
Best for: Train connections, budget options, practical stays
"Functional area with excellent transport connections"
Pros
- Easy airport access
- Budget options
- Central trains
Cons
- Less charming
- Some rough edges
- Touristy crowds
Accommodation Budget in Munich
Budget
Hostels, budget hotels, shared facilities
Mid-Range
3-star hotels, boutique stays, great locations
Luxury
5-star hotels, suites, premium amenities
💡 Prices vary by season. Book 2-3 months ahead for best rates.
Our Top Hotel Picks
$ Best Budget Hotels
Wombat's City Hostel Munich Hauptbahnhof
Near Hauptbahnhof
Award-winning hostel near the central station featuring a social WomBar, a large glass-roofed courtyard, and both dorms and private rooms with en-suite bathrooms.
Hotel Mirabell by Maier Privathotels
Hauptbahnhof
Friendly family-run budget hotel steps from Munich main station with bright modern rooms, free WiFi and super-convenient location for trains, old town and Oktoberfest grounds.
$$ Best Mid-Range Hotels
Hotel Cocoon Hauptbahnhof
Near Hauptbahnhof
Design hotel with Alpine-inspired rooms, excellent bar, and walking distance to Karlsplatz.
Platzl Hotel
Old Town
Charming traditional mid-range hotel in the historic heart of Munich right next to Hofbräuhaus and Marienplatz, featuring Bavarian-style rooms and one of the city's best beer gardens.
$$$ Best Luxury Hotels
Louis Hotel
Altstadt
Japanese-Bavarian fusion design hotel overlooking Viktualienmarkt with rooftop terrace and excellent restaurant.
Hotel München Palace
Bogenhausen
Elegant hotel near English Garden with classic interiors, extensive spa, and peaceful garden setting.
Mandarin Oriental Munich
Altstadt
Ultra-luxury in neo-Renaissance building near Hofbräuhaus with rooftop spa and pool, Michelin dining, and impeccable service.
Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski
Altstadt
Munich's grande dame since 1858 on Maximilianstraße with royal history, legendary lobby, and timeless elegance.
✦ Unique & Boutique Stays
Hotel Uhland
Theresienwiese
Family-run gem near Theresienwiese with traditional Bavarian charm, garden courtyard, and excellent breakfast.
Beyond by Geisel
Altstadt-Lehel
A sophisticated 5-star luxury residence overlooking Marienplatz, offering a communal kitchen with a personal chef and a high-end 'home away from home' concept.
Smart Booking Tips for Munich
- 1 Book 6+ months ahead for Oktoberfest (late Sep-early Oct) - prices triple, sell out months ahead
- 2 Major trade fairs (especially in spring/fall) increase prices significantly
- 3 Christmas markets (late Nov-Dec) busy but atmospheric
- 4 January-February offers best rates, 30-40% cheaper than summer
- 5 Many hotels include excellent Bavarian breakfast - compare value
Why you can trust this guide
35+ countries • 8 years analyzing travel data
Independent developer and travel data analyst based in Prague. 35+ countries visited across Europe and Asia, 8+ years analyzing flight routes, accommodation prices, and seasonal weather patterns.
- All neighborhoods verified by walking them
- Curated locations based on walkability & safety
- Real-time availability via live partner maps
- Prices based on Booking.com & Numbeo averages
Methodology: This guide combines on-the-ground neighborhood research, current hotel pricing data, and real traveler feedback to provide honest, actionable accommodation recommendations for Munich.
Updated: February 25, 2026
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