Living in Munich as an expat

The gorgeous city of Munich lies just north of the beautiful Bavarian Alps and straddles the River Isar. With centuries-old architecture and scenic lanes, it is one of the most picturesque in Europe. It’s probably best known for its beer and, more specifically, its world-famous Oktoberfest, which celebrates the city’s wonderful brewing culture.

With a city motto like ‘Munich Loves You’, it shouldn’t be long before expats moving to Munich feel welcome in the Bavarian capital. With an exuberant mix of trendy shops and restaurants, bellowing beer halls and leafy parks, it’s easy to see why it attracts so many expats.

Working in Munich as an expat

One of Germany’s most prosperous cities, Munich is a centre for biotechnology and software development, attracting professionals looking for high living standards and a chance to grow their careers. With its favourable business climate, it boasts one of the country’s lowest unemployment rates and is home to some of its highest earners. The fleet of luxury vehicles cruising down the Autobahn shows that it’s as much a place of style as it is of wealth.

Working in Munich – Advice for expats 
Doing business in Germany

Finding accommodation in Munich

Although finding a suitable property can be difficult because demand often outstrips supply, Munich’s standard of housing is excellent. Still, whether you’re a young professional or a parent after a quieter neighbourhood, you are likely to find a suburb in Munich that suits you.

Accommodation in Munich 
Best places to live in Munich for expats 
The rental process in Germany

Cost of living in Munich

The cost of living in Munich is undeniably high, and expenses like accommodation and furnishing your new home will be your biggest considerations. While housing and utility costs are steep, you can save money using the city’s affordable public transport. 

Other costs include compulsory health insurance. If parents wish to send their kids to an international school, they’ll need to consider the significant tuition costs.

Cost of living in Munich

Lifestyle in Munich

There’s plenty to see and do in Munich. It’s rich in history and culture, and its events calendar is packed throughout the year. The city embraces modernity while preserving heritage, creating an atmosphere where small-town living meets high-tech innovation. It also features historical sites such as the bustling Marienplatz, Maximilianstrasse, and the city’s cultural epicentre in Maxvorstadt, all educational experiences for the youngsters.

People moving to Munich will discover that this clean, family-friendly Bavarian city offers a fantastic quality of life, with world-class restaurants, easy access to the Alps, and, of course, the famous annual Oktoberfest.

Shopping, nightlife and eating out in Munich

Finding a school in Munich

Munich is blessed with a multitude of excellent public, bilingual, private and international schools, while tertiary institutions in Munich are some of the best in the country, so parents will have a rich variety to choose from. Public schools are free to attend in Munich, but the language of instruction is German, which may be challenging for older children.

Parents who cannot afford the often pricey international schools should consider public or private bilingual schools, which typically teach in German and English. International schools are also a great option as they allow your children to continue in their home country’s curriculum and enable them to meet others who share similar experiences, which may ease the transition for them.

Education in Munich 
International schools in Munich

Healthcare in Munich

You can rest assured that you’ll have access to superb private and public healthcare. Munich is home to numerous surgical centres and specialised practitioners. It features some of the most advanced hospitals in the world.

Health insurance is mandatory when moving to Germany. The public health insurance will cover doctor’s visits, prescription medication, and hospital stays.

Hospitals in Munich 
Healthcare system in Germany

Climate in Munich

Munich’s weather can be unpredictable. Summers are mild and warm but can also be exceptionally wet, and a typical day could see lovely sunny weather interspersed with dramatic thunderstorms. Winters are cold with light snowfalls.

No matter what you seek in a city, you can find it in Munich without compromise. While some cities have to rely on certain distinguishing features to make up for those that may be lacking, Munich really has it all.

Climate and weather in Munich

The weather in Munich tends to be somewhat unpredictable. Summers are fairly warm but can also be exceptionally wet, and a typical day could see lovely sunny weather interspersed with dramatic thunderstorms. Winters are cold with light snowfall.

In summer (June to August), average temperatures range between 50°F (10°C) and 73°F (23°C), while in winter (December to February), the mercury fluctuates between 25°F (-4°C) and 39°F (4°C).

The Alps cause two unique aberrations in Munich’s weather. South-westerly winds crossing the Alps can push up temperatures markedly, even in winter. In contrast, north-westerly winds blowing from the mountains bring unseasonably low temperatures, rain and even snow on odd days.

You can look forward to experiencing various weather conditions in Munich. Irrespective of the weather, though, there is always something to do in the city, and you will learn to love the differing seasons and the variety of activities they offer.

If you’re looking to work in Munich, you will likely face stiff competition in the job market. Munich has a high standard of education and many excellent academic institutions, which means residents are often highly qualified and skilled. This, coupled with a focused work ethic, is the driving force behind the city’s many thriving and innovative industries.

Core sectors include information and communication technology, automotive engineering, aerospace, life sciences and finance, while the media and publishing sector is claimed to be the largest in Europe.

Medical engineering, environmental technology, nanotechnology, and measurement and control systems are secondary to these but are rapidly developing. Service industries, tourism, retail, and trade also make a smaller but significant contribution to the city’s success as an economic powerhouse.

Job market in Munich

Although the Bavarian capital boasts one of Germany’s lowest unemployment rates year-on-year, it does not mean that finding a job and working in Munich will be easy for expats. This is especially the case since the country’s immigration laws have been tightened to protect local jobs.

Unless you’re highly qualified or can prove you’ll make a significant entrepreneurial impact on the local market, you may find that the job market in Munich can be challenging. That said, if you’re successful, you’ll find that working in Munich pays well and offers benefits such as subsidies for childcare, housing, and travel.

Munich’s main business hub is in the city centre, while industrial areas are mostly found on its outskirts and in the surrounding countryside. Luckily, commuting to work isn’t usually a problem as public transport in Munich is efficient, punctual, and accessible from almost anywhere in the city. Those who intend to drive should try to avoid the heavy congestion of the city’s peak-hour traffic.

The average working week is less than 40 hours, although this may not always be the case, especially if you’re in a high-profile position. Annual paid leave is normally between 18 and 30 days, depending on the company, and workers are entitled to six weeks of paid sick leave, after which health insurance covers a portion of the person’s salary.

Maternity and paternity leave is also generous, particularly for mothers, who sometimes receive leave periods of up to three years. They don’t draw a salary during this time but may return to work once the agreed period is over. This arrangement isn’t mandatory for expats, but it’s often granted and worth discussing with a potential employer.

For self-employed expats, the German Chamber of Industry and Commerce has offices all around the world and can give advice on starting a business in Munich.

Useful links

• German Chamber of Industry and Commerce
• Make It In Munich

Finding a job in Munich

Many expats move to Munich with a confirmed job offer in hand. Major companies tend to headhunt employees from abroad for positions that can’t be filled by the local German labour force.

For those who aren’t lucky enough to have been recruited in advance, several channels can be used to help in the hunt for a job. It is wise to try to contact specialist recruitment companies before moving to Germany – these professionals can offer great insights into the type of jobs available in a particular field.

Online job portals are also a good source of information. Once in Munich, you can consult the job listings in local newspapers for information on vacancies. Company websites also regularly list vacancies.

Expats who are not EU citizens must ensure they have a valid work permit to work in Munich.

Useful links

• Hays
• XING
• Experteer

Work culture in Munich

Business culture in Germany, in general, is formal, and efficiency in the workplace is paramount. Time is money, so being punctual is important. Once the meeting begins, Germans get straight to business, and there’s little room for small talk.

Punctuality and appearance are critical, so you should dress well and arrive at meetings fully prepared and on time. It’s best to avoid humour, especially at first, as it can be misconstrued. You should also expect to be asked detailed questions and have facts and figures to back up your presentation.

Although most Germans speak good English, many prefer to speak German during business negotiations, so we recommend hiring a translator for key meetings if you can’t speak the language. Newcomers to Munich will find that Germans are private and maintain a strict separation between work and home life, so it will take time to forge more personal relationships with colleagues.

Finding accommodation in Munich isn’t easy, but it’s usually worth the effort. Most apartments and houses are comfortable and almost always close to amenities and public transport.

The biggest downside to renting accommodation in Munich is that the rental market can be difficult to navigate, as there is a high demand and limited supply. Still, it’s possible to find your perfect home.

Areas and suburbs in Munich

Munich has a diverse range of accommodation to suit people from all walks of life. The city is home to 25 districts, each with a distinct charm and character. Up-and-coming professionals often enjoy the bustling energy of Schwabing.

Au Haidhausen is perfect if you’re looking to be in the heart of the city. This neighbourhood is located along the Isar River and boasts many trendy waterside restaurants and cafés.

If you’re moving to Munich with children, you’ll also have a fair few areas to choose from. Those who have a little room in their budgets typically prefer upmarket Bogenhausen, while Pasing is popular for its suburban tranquillity.

Read our guide on the Best (and worst) Areas and Suburbs in Munich for a detailed look on the top neighbourhoods in the city.

Types of accommodation in Munich

The standard of accommodation in Munich is on par with that in most Western European cities. Properties are comfortable and finished to a high standard, although they can be on the small side.

Munich offers a variety of furnished and unfurnished accommodation. While shipping furniture is a viable option, especially for expats moving from elsewhere in the EU, you should generally have no difficulty buying new items for your home in Germany.

Those looking to live centrally in Munich will find that their choice of property is limited to apartments. Expat families will need to consider areas and suburbs further away from the city centre, where they’ll find more spacious housing with gardens and surrounding open spaces.

Finding accommodation in Munich

Most expats rent an apartment in Munich. The first step to finding one is to approach an agent or subscribe to a website that lists rentals. Local newspapers also contain listings.

If you use an agent, you must submit a form that summarises what you’re looking for. The agent will then contact you if any properties match your specifications and give a time and date for a viewing. You shouldn’t be surprised if several other people are at the viewing, and the trick is to stay professional and express interest immediately.

Once you’ve been short-listed, you will be sent an application form that you should submit as soon as possible. If your application is successful, you can expect to pay a three-month security deposit upon signing a contract, as well as an agent’s fee equivalent to around two months’ rent.

Useful links

• Engel & Völkers
• ImmoScout24
• Kleinanzeigen

Renting accommodation in Munich

After finding a suitable property, you will need to arrange a time to view it with the landlord/agent. Group viewings are fairly common in Munich, and it might be a little overwhelming to find as many as 25 other potential tenants viewing the same property.

Making an application

If you are interested in a property, you should express this immediately. In many cases, especially in the more popular areas, landlords will have the pick of applications. As such, you should ensure your paperwork is in order to complete an application quickly.

Applicants usually must provide a copy of their ID/passport, work permit (if applicable), wage slips, or contract of employment. In some cases, you may be required to provide references from your employer or previous landlords.

Leases, costs, and fees

The lease length in Munich can vary but is often a year. You should read the document carefully to ensure that they are aware of how much notice you are required to give your landlord should you wish to terminate the contract early. An inventory should also be carried out, and any damage to the property should be noted down formally to ensure that the full security deposit is returned at the end of the lease.

Most landlords ask for up to three months’ rent to cover the security deposit on a place in Munich. The deposit is refundable and is usually returned at the end of the tenancy, provided the property is not damaged. Otherwise, cleaning or repair costs will be removed from the deposit before the balance is refunded.

It is advisable to obtain proof from the landlord that he has kept the security deposit in a separate account from the monthly rent. As rental contracts are in German, we advise you to consult someone who knows the language to go through each clause to fully comprehend the terms and conditions.

Read Accommodation in Germany for more on rental processes in the country.

Utilities in Munich

New arrivals should note that Germany has ‘cold rent’ and ‘warm rent’. The ‘warm rent’ includes heating and miscellaneous costs but excludes electricity. ‘Cold rent’ excludes the cost of all utilities.

Utility bills are based on an approximate rate, which depends on the apartment size and the number of people living there. The monthly repayments can be adjusted accordingly, and the company issues an annual invoice stipulating the actual amount used and if there are any outstanding payments to be made.

If you have paid more than the amount used for the year, you should receive a refund from the company.

Electricity, gas, and water

Munich’s municipal utility company, Stadtwerke München GmbH (SWM), manages the electricity, gas, and water supply in the city. When you move into your new apartment, you can simply use SWM’s online service to register the existing electricity, natural gas, and water meters.

You will have to provide your move-in date, address, meter number and readings, and the name of the previous tenant. While SWM is the main provider, you are free to explore other electricity and natural gas companies.

Bins and recycling

Abfallwirtschaftsbetrieb München (AWM) is responsible for waste management in Munich. Residents are provided different coloured bins for residual (grey), organic (brown), and paper (blue) waste. Organic waste is typically collected weekly, while residual waste is collected biweekly, and paper waste is collected once a month.

There are also recycling centres available for hazardous waste, and you can arrange collection for bulky waste.

For more on internet, streaming, and cable services in the country, read Keeping in Touch in Germany

Useful links

• SWM
• City of Munich
• AWM

The best places to live in Munich

There are so many areas and suburbs in Munich that you can choose from. The neighbourhood that you decide to live in will depend on factors such as your budget, proximity to your workplace and good schools, as well as the availability of amenities.

Naturally, housing becomes more affordable away from the city centre. Central Munich is home to numerous shops, museums, parks and theatres, but accommodation here comes at a premium, and most consist of high-rise apartments. Families will do well looking further out towards the suburbs, where freestanding homes are more common.

City living in Munich

Haidhausen

Haidhausen is a trendy area that’s popular with the younger crowd. Weisenburger Platz and Pariser Platz are mainstays of local pub culture. If you enjoy an active lifestyle, you will be able to jog, cycle or stroll along the Isar River which cuts through the area. It’s well served by public transport, making it easy to get around Munich.

Maxvorstadt

This is a highly desirable neighbourhood in Munich thanks to its location close to the city centre. Residents have access to great shopping facilities and many social amenities such as nightclubs, bars and sports centres.

The U-Bahn connections close to the area make it easy to get around, and residents have little need for a car. The demand for rental property in Maxvorstadt is high and so is the rent, making the area only affordable for a select few. The types of expats who live here tend to be single executives earning good salaries.

Neuhausen

This is a chic residential area of Munich located close to the city centre. Properties here are small but luxurious, and most are high-quality, modern apartments. Public transport connections are excellent, which makes travelling really easy, and residents have access to a wide variety of facilities and amenities.

Neuhausen is close to the Nymphenburg Palace and its grounds, which is a paradise for dog walkers, runners, and cyclists. It’s popular with wealthy professionals and young expats with substantial disposable incomes.

Family-friendly suburbs in Munich

Bogenhausen

Property in Bogenhausen is more affordable than in areas closer to the city centre. But its housing is still of an exceptional standard, and you will benefit from being a bit removed from the bustle of city life. Those living in Bogenhausen can enjoy the tranquillity of living near the Isar River and the English garden.

Thanks to the U-Bahn and S-Bahn, the area is well-connected, and residents are just a short commute from the city. The area is popular with family-oriented expats.

Giesing

Giesing is located on the edge of the city centre and along the Isar River. It’s a cosmopolitan area that’s home to several established immigrant communities. Accommodation here is generally affordable and more spacious than properties in other areas close to the city centre.

It doesn’t boast much in terms of nightlife, but it is home to good restaurants and a handful of decent bars. Public transport connections to the area are good, and the journey into Munich’s city centre takes around 20 minutes. This is a great area if you’re looking to save money and interact with locals.

Berg am Laim

Berg am Laim is a southeastern suburb near Bogenhausen and Haidhausen. It is pleasantly quiet and great for families with young children. Berg am Laim has numerous leafy parks and relatively spacious properties. It’s also close to various good international and bilingual schools. Berg am Laim has its fair share of restaurants and shops, while the U-Bahn station provides easy access to the city centre.

Pasing

This suburban area is about 40 minutes away from Munich’s centre and is a great option if you’re looking for quieter surroundings. Its main square has many shops and restaurants, reducing the need to travel into the city centre.

It’s also home to a large student population that attends the University of Applied Sciences. Properties here are generally affordable, houses are large and often come with decent-sized gardens. It’s close to several good bilingual schools, making it popular with families.

Neuperlach

Situated to the south of Munich, Neuperlach is a pleasant area popular with expat families looking to save money during their stay. Although some architecture is a bit dated, the houses are large and comfortable.

The community is well served by supermarkets, small shops, and a few restaurants and bars. Numerous U-Bahn stations and bus lines make commuting into the city quite straightforward.

As is generally the case in Germany, the healthcare in Munich is top-notch but can be expensive. As an expat, you’ll have access to both the public and private health sectors depending on several factors, including how much you earn and if you are self-employed.

If you’ll be working in Munich, you are obliged to have health insurance. Freelancers may be excused from this rule, but getting private health insurance is still recommended, as medical costs can be pricey if you aren’t fully covered.

The city features some of the world’s most advanced hospitals and is home to numerous surgical centres and specialists. It goes without saying that there are plenty of general practitioners of equal calibre, so you will have access to well-rounded, efficient healthcare services.

Below are some of the top public and private hospitals in Munich.

Hospitals in Munich

Deutsches Herzzentrum München

Website: www.dhm.mhn.de
Address: Lazarettstraße 36, 80636, Munich

Krankenhaus Barmherzige Brüder München

Website: www.barmherzige-muenchen.de
Address: Romanstraße 93, 80639, Munich

Schön Klinik München Schwabing

Website: www.schoen-kliniken.de
Address: Parzivalplatz 4, Munich

LMU Klinikum

Website: www.klinikum.uni-muenchen.de
Address: Ziemssenstr. 5, 80336, Munich

As a university city, Munich highly values education, and the city has many excellent public and bilingual schools. Most expat children attend international schools in Munich where, besides being exposed to different cultures, they also receive an education in their home language.

Alternatively, you could send your children to a public or private school in Munich, where they are likely to integrate with local children and the local culture quicker than at international schools.

Public schools in Munich

Tuition for public schools is usually affordable or free from Kindergarten up to the university level, but the language of instruction is German. This can benefit younger students, but it’s often difficult for older students to adapt to.

Children typically attend Kindergarten at the age of three and start Grade 1 at Grundschule from age six. All pupils learn a standardised curriculum until Grade 4, after which they attend one of three types of schools: Hauptschule, Realschule or Gymnasium. The child’s academic ability frequently determines which school they attend, but the final decision rests with the parents.

Regardless of which kind of school they attend, all students have to complete at least nine years of education. Schooling is typically conducted during the morning, and they regularly receive a lot of homework, so they can’t get too involved in extracurricular activities.

• Hauptschule offers the same subjects as Realschule and Gymnasium but teaches at a slower pace and includes vocational courses. In Grade 10, students study at a vocational training school and then attend Berufsschule, where they receive further education and apprenticeship training until Grade 12.
• Realschule, on the other hand, is attended all the way through Grade 10, and students go straight to Berufsschule. Depending on their academic progress, Realschule students can go to a Gymnasium upon graduation.
• Gymnasium is generally accepted as being aimed at academically inclined students. It covers Grade 5 through 13, and students receive the Abitur qualification when they graduate.

Useful links

• Bavarian State Ministry of Education and Culture – Types of School

Bilingual schools in Munich

Munich is home to several public and private schools offering bilingual education. These schools typically teach in both German and English. Some, like St George’s School Munich and the Bavarian International School, offer international curricula such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) and the British syllabi.

Bilingual public schools are often free to attend, so parents will only have to budget for the cost of books, uniforms, and extracurricular activities, while private bilingual schools will have tuition fees attached. They are often popular among locals and expats, so we recommend submitting your children’s applications as early as possible.

International schools in Munich

International schools in Munich are more directly aimed at expat students and offer modern facilities and more extracurricular activities than most public and private German schools. Most international schools in Munich offer the International Baccalaureate curriculum, while a few offer curricula from specific countries, such as the UK and the US.

The benefits found at international schools come at a price, so fees can be high, particularly for senior grades. Space may be limited at these schools, so expat parents planning to move to Munich must apply as early as possible.

Read more

• International schools in Munich

Special-needs education in Munich

Schools in Munich are structured to support children with special needs in mainstream classrooms. The city’s education system prioritises inclusion, but there are also specialised schools for those whose needs cannot be accommodated in mainstream classrooms.

Typically, public schools in Munich will conduct assessments in kindergarten as part of their early intervention strategy. Students are then provided accommodations, and teachers receive training. Some international schools also offer a special-needs education department, but we recommend contacting specific schools to find out about their options.

Useful links

• The Bavarian Special Schools

Tutors in Munich

Munich’s residents value education, so tutors are widely used to improve and assist children’s schooling. Tutors might assist in specific and more complex subjects such as maths or science.

You’ll find that expat parents may hire a tutor to help their children learn German or maintain proficiency in their mother tongue. Tutors are further used to prepare for important tests or university entrance exams.

Your child may also benefit from having a guiding hand in navigating a new school system or just to build some confidence.

Useful links

• Aktiv Language School Munich
• LearnPick

There are fewer international schools in Munich than in Berlin, so expats should apply as far ahead as possible to secure a place for their children.

International schools follow various globally recognised curricula like the British, US, and International Baccalaureate programmes. These schools also have special programmes to help students make a smooth transition into life in Munich. On the whole, international schools can be beneficial for the whole family, as parents and children can meet others who share similar experiences.

You should try to negotiate an educational allowance into their employment contract, as fees at German international schools are high and can easily exceed EUR 17,000 per year. On top of this, parents often have to pay for uniforms, stationery, school excursions and various extracurricular activities.

While international schools are pricey, they frequently offer a wide slate of extracurricular activities, small teacher-to-student ratios, and excellent facilities. Many expat parents find the cost well worth it.

Below are some of the top international schools in Munich.

International schools in Munich

Obermenzinger Gymnasium

The Obermenzinger Gymnasium is a small secondary school area where each child is treated as an individual. The school follows the Bavarian curriculum and promotes and fosters the German language. Obermenzinger Gymnasium believes that small classes drive academic success and also employs a two-teacher strategy to create the optimal learning environment.

Gender: Co-educational 
Curriculum: Bavarian 
Ages: 10 to 19 
Website: www.obermenzinger.de

Bavarian International School

Home to students of more than 61 nationalities, Bavarian International School aims to cultivate a truly international school environment. The school offers the full International Baccalaureate programme, with a focus on nurturing students’ individuality.

Gender: Co-educational 
Curriculum: International Baccalaureate 
Ages: 3 to 19 
Website: www.bis-school.com

Munich International School

Established in 1966, the Munich International School (MIS) is one of the oldest international schools in the city. The school prides itself on leveraging the latest pedagogical approaches to develop robust programmes that challenge its students and encourage mindfulness.

Gender: Co-educational 
Curriculum: International Baccalaureate 
Ages: 4 to 18 
Website: www.mis-munich.de

St. George’s British International School Munich

St George’s British International School Munich goes beyond learning and aims to instil a love for lifelong learning in its students. The school creates a wide array of essential academic and extracurricular activities to ensure the holistic development of students.

Curriculum: International Baccalaureate and British (English National Curriculum and Cambridge IGCSE) 
Gender: Co-educational 
Ages: 2 to 18 
Website: www.stgeorgesschool.com/munich

You can expect an exciting yet balanced lifestyle in Munich. Whether you’re a foodie, shopaholic or fitness fanatic, Munich has a broad range of activities to suit all tastes and preferences.

New arrivals are likely to spend a fair amount of time getting to grips with tourist attractions such as the Nymphenburg Palace, Alte Pinakothek, and Hofbräuhaus. But the fun doesn’t stop there. In addition to the city’s multitude of annual events, you will find countless activities to keep them busy.

Shopping in Munich

Shopping in Munich includes trendy upmarket boutiques and antique stores, as well as high-street labels in its shopping malls. Shoppers can feast their eyes on top fashion merchandise by strolling down Maximilianstrasse and the adjoining Theatinerstrasse.

Those who enjoy finding unique items should visit one of the city’s numerous markets. The Viktualienmarkt, in particular, is a colourful maze of stalls, with everything from fresh flowers to mouthwatering street food. Elisabethmarkt is another great option for those looking for fresh produce.

If you’re looking for trendy and unique pieces, visit the hip Gärtnerplatz where young designers display their one of a kind furniture, jewellery, and clothing. Hohenzollernstraße and Schwabing are other places to check out for some more eclectic finds.

Nightlife in Munich

Munich’s nightlife scene is as eclectic and diverse as everything else in the city. As a major centre for the arts in Germany, Munich hosts top quality live music and theatre performances. On any given night, residents can choose from having informal drinks in a traditional beer hall, dancing the night away at a contemporary club or spending an evening immersed in the works of great German classical composers.

Münchener Freiheit in Schwabing is Munich’s most famous nightlife district. It’s packed with bustling bars, quaint cafés, sophisticated jazz venues, and hip dance clubs. More nightlife options can be found in Gärtnerplatz and Glockenbachviertel. If you’re interested in alternative music, you should head to Haidenhausen. If you have more cultured tastes, pay a visit to the Goethe-Institut.

Eating out in Munich

Munich has a wide variety of first-class restaurants. You may be hard-pressed to ignore the intoxicating pull of the beer gardens, but you should also sample the extensive delights of the restaurants in Munich.

The city has multiple Michelin-starred dining options, and many of its eateries are opulent and sophisticated. Connoisseurs can indulge in first-class cuisine at these international culinary hot spots, or explore the Schwabing district’s Bohemian flair.

Sampling some of Munich’s specialities – like its wurst sausages, meat dishes, Knödel dumplings and pretzels – is a must. And there’s nothing like washing down these hearty Bavarian flavours with a lager in the comfortable sun of summer at one of the city’s many beer gardens.

Sport and fitness in Munich

Despite Germany’s status as the second-biggest consumer of beer in the world, you will find it quite sobering that most of Munich’s population retains a healthy physique and a passion for sports and fitness.

While many people prefer to run or cycle to keep healthy, many enjoy the social atmosphere of a club or gym – and Munich has no shortage of these. At the same time, come rain or shine, outdoor sports are by far the most appealing activities for expats.

With warm summers and freezing winters, Munich’s climate affords residents the opportunity to play an array of contrasting sports, allowing them to remain active all year round. And with the Alps only a one-and-a-half hour drive away, skiing and snowboarding are, understandably, at the top of the list.

See and do in Munich

It’s easy to be intoxicated by the heady beer hall scene, but you’ll soon realise that there’s plenty more to see and do in Munich. The charming Bavarian capital combines old-world allure and modern flair, and its numerous attractions are enticing. Below are a few of our favourites.

Hofbräuhaus

The Hofbräuhaus has been a Bavarian institution since 1605. Its atmosphere is defined by the local brand of friendliness and joy known as Gemütlichkeit. It’s easy to get enthusiastic about the beer that’s been brewed here for four centuries, and the food is good, too.

Marienplatz

This historic Munich square harbours some of the city’s most appealing architecture. The Neo-Gothic Town Hall features a Glockenspiel that chimes three times a day, while its clockwork figures act out parts of the city’s history. Visitors can also explore the toy museum in the Old Town Hall and the Frauenkirche, Munich’s cathedral, dating back to the 15th century.

Nymphenburg Palace

Nymphenburg Palace was initially the summer home of the Munich aristocracy. Just five miles (8km) from the city centre, you can spend the day at its sweeping grounds and take in the villas’ uniquely crafted fittings and frescoes.

Alte Pinakothek

Alte Pinakothek is Munich’s premier art museum and features work by some of Europe’s greatest painters from the 14th to 18th centuries. The gallery is a stunning Neoclassical building with two floors and dozens of rooms, and expats will surely be enthralled for hours.

BMW Museum

This museum is a must for all petrolheads. Located close to Olympiapark, the museum documents the history of the famous German automobile manufacturer. The museum has been drawing crowds since it opened in 1973.

Meeting people and making friends in Munich

One of your first priorities when moving to Munich will be meeting new people and building your own little community while living in the city. The easiest way to get started on this important task is to join a local club or meetup based on your interests. Not only will you meet like-minded people, but you may also end up making lifelong connections.

There are plenty of fitness, arts, and professional groups that you can explore. Expat clubs are also a great choice for meeting others who have had to navigate the expat experience in Munich.

Useful links

• Munich International Women’s Club
• Munich Running Society
• Ananas Book Club

You shouldn’t have any problems getting around in Munich. The city features a sophisticated public transport network and prides itself on a well-planned web of roads and highways (Autobahns), making navigating the city smooth and easy.

That said, there seems to be constant road maintenance, and travelling by car can sometimes be a test of patience, especially during rush hours.

This is one of the main reasons residents use alternatives such as buses, trams, and trains depending on where they live and how close they are to work and school.

Public transport in Munich

Munich has an integrated public transport system consisting of buses, trams, and U-Bahn and S-Bahn trains – so you’ll be spoiled for choice in the city. While all public transport services in Munich are relatively efficient, they can be distinguished by their speed and accessibility.

The local transport authority Münchner Verkehrs- und Tarifverbund (MVV) operates an integrated ticketing system that covers all modes of transport. There are various ticketing options that include single tickets, group tickets and daily, weekly and monthly passes. Ticket prices depend on how far you are travelling, and they can be bought at any U-Bahn or S-Bahn station and various other outlets.

Trams

Trams are another option for travelling around Munich. The city’s tramway network consists of 14 daytime routes and four that run through the night.

Tram services operate every 10 to 35 minutes, depending on the route. While the tram network covers a fairly large area, most people only use it to travel short distances.

Trains

The U-Bahn is Munich’s network of underground trains, and the S-Bahn is the wider network of suburban trains. Most people use these services to commute to and from work daily. The main advantage of the U-Bahn and S-Bahn is that they’re by far the fastest mode of transport. They’re also very extensive and accessible from most places in the city.

Expats in Munich should find local trains comfortable, efficient and easy to use. They’re usually on time and operate at regular intervals, with the schedule and frequency of trains differing according to the particular line.

Buses

Munich’s bus network is also quite vast, and you can use it to reach the outlying suburbs that the S-Bahn and U-Bahn don’t reach. Bus services are less regular than trains, but most of the busier routes operate 24 hours a day. The frequency of buses varies according to the route and time of day.

Travelling by bus in Munich will allow you to see more of your new home, but you should be aware that they are subject to traffic delays.

Useful links

• MVV

Taxis in Munich

You can easily spot a taxi in Munich with its beige colour and the yellow and black taxi on the roof. They can be found throughout the city centre at designated taxi ranks, hailed off the street or booked in advance – which is usually a good idea when travelling to or from the suburbs.

They’re a viable option for travelling short distances in the city centre, but fares can add up over longer distances, so they’re most cost-effective when travelling with a group. Taxis are regulated in Munich, so there are often reasonable base fares.

You can also use ride-hailing services across Munich, which may be a great option for expats who are new to the city and are unsure of street names and addresses. You can simply download the ride-hailing service’s app, link your credit card, and start riding.

Useful links

• Taxi-München eG
• IsarFunk
• Uber

Cycling in Munich

Cycling is one of the best ways to get around Munich. With more than 750 miles (1,200km) of bike trails, a good network of cycle lanes, and bicycle rental outlets scattered throughout the city, Munich is certified cyclist-friendly.

If you’re a fitness enthusiast, you will especially enjoy taking to the bike paths that run alongside the Isar River and through the city’s parks.

The downside to cycling in Munich is that, even though the authorities have strict rules in place for motorists and cyclists, accidents do happen. That said, cyclists caught ignoring traffic lights, cycling under the influence, or without a light while riding in the dark risk hefty fines and even detention.

While wearing a helmet isn’t compulsory, you are advised to wear one at all times.

Useful links

• MVG Bike
• Call a Bike

Driving in Munich

Public transport is a popular and attractive option in Munich, but getting around by car has obvious benefits, including independence and ease of access. It’s also easy to rent a car in Munich, with various rental companies and car-sharing services available across the city.

Two distinguishing features of Munich’s road network make buying a car a justifiable decision:

• The Mittlerer Ring is a high-capacity road that encircles the city centre, making it easy to get around in every direction
• The Autobahn is a network of multiple-lane highways that links Munich to other cities

These networks are effective, but the city is constantly maintaining its roads, so traffic jams are a common occurrence, especially during rush hour, which is usually between 7am and 9am and between 4pm and 6pm.

Parking, especially in the city centre, can be difficult to find. And unless your employer assigns you a parking space at work, you should consider that parking fees can be quite expensive.

Driving in Munich can be a pleasurable experience, as local motorists are generally patient and courteous. But this is largely because strict traffic laws govern the city, and the Polizei patrol the city – sometimes in unmarked cars – to ensure everyone sticks to the rules.

Read Transport and Driving in Germany for more on obtaining driving licences in the country.

Useful links

• Share Now
• Sixt