Deciding where to stay in Munich can be a real challenge given both the size of the city and the abundance of hotels and accommodation available in the Bavarian capital.
Germany’s southern city is one of the best places to visit in the country, because each neighborhood and district in Munich can be very different from one another, giving you the chance to enjoy a stay that can be as varied as it is fun.
Munich’s different districts each have a lot to offer the traveler, from the history and museums of the Altstadt to the chaotic nightlife of Schwabing.
Visit in September and you will find the most famous Oktoberfest in Germany in full swing meaning Munich’s many different areas will be fully booked, while in winter you can enjoy Christmas markets in the city.
Any time of year, you can enjoy the incredible, authentic Bavarian culture that’s waiting for you here, and to help you to get the most out of your stay in the city, here’s our complete guide on where to stay in Munich.
Don’t leave home without: Lonely Planet Germany (Travel Guide)
Where to Stay in Munich: Best Districts & Hotels
Altstadt-Lehel
Altstadt-Lehel is the historic heart of Munich and of Bavaria. If you are a first time visitor to the city and are contemplating where to stay in Munich, then this is the area to choose.
This city center dates back hundreds of years and was once contained within the defensive walls that encircled Munich until the city spilled out into the surrounding areas.
Here you can find the best of Munich’s museums, galleries, and wonderful architecture, alongside upscale restaurants and historic beer houses. This is the classic Munich of your imagination and if you want to live the Bavarian idyll then this is the place to stay.
Being the city center, prices for hotels, of course, are higher than in outside districts, but basing yourself here means you can simply walk from sight to sight and enjoy the most of your getaway in Munich.
Top luxury hotels we recommend in Altstadt-Lehel:
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Top budget hotels we recommend in Altstadt-Lehel:
Top hostels we recommend in Altstadt-Lehel:
Maxvorstadt
After the Altstadt, comes Maxvorstadt, because when Munich began to grow beyond its city walls, the first official district to be built was this one.
Located north of the old city, this is an excellent choice for those looking to be just a little bit away from all the touristy bustle of the center while still being within easy reach too when needed.
Maxvorstadt is busy and lively in its own way though, as this is where you will find the city’s two major universities as well as many, many students. Prices here can be significantly lower than in the center itself.
Top luxury hotels we recommend in Maxvorstadt:
Top mid-range hotels we recommend in Maxvorstadt:
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Top hostels we recommend in Maxvorstadt:
Schwabing
Schwabing is a little further out of the city center in comparison to the previous two districts, but it’s anything but quiet.
This has always been the trendiest area to be in modern Munich and has long been the haunt of artists, trendsetters and more recently, hipsters.
One of Munich’s must-see sights, the English Garden is found in Schwabing, and this is the city’s favorite outdoor area.
You can find a great number of beer houses in the garden, most of them complete with outdoor seating for when those hot Bavarian summer days call for some heavy refreshment.
There are a great number of cafes, restaurants, and bars in Schwabing too, making this one of the best districts for relaxed nightlife in the city.
Top luxury hotels we recommend in Schwabing:
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Ludwigsvorstadt
Ludwigsvorstadt is one of Munich’s most multicultural districts and if you are returning to visit the city for a second time then this is a great area to consider.
The district will give you a real feel for what modern Munich is really about, while in September, the huge Oktoberfest festival is held on the edge of Ludwigsvorstadt.
Top luxury hotels we recommend in Ludwigsvorstadt:
Top mid-range hotels we recommend in Ludwigsvorstadt:
Top budget hotels we recommend in Ludwigsvorstadt:
Top hostel we recommend in Ludwigsvorstadt: Smart Stay Hostel
Haidhausen
Haidhausen is located over the river from the old city, and it provides travelers with a vibrant mix of Munich’s history and Munich’s modern life.
It’s a great choice if you are looking to escape the rest of the tourists and to find somewhere new to stay. The district is well known for its nightlife too, so it’s great if you are looking for Munich’s best parties.
Top luxury hotels we recommend in Haidhausen:
Top mid-range hotels we recommend in Haidhausen:
Top budget hotels we recommend in Haidhausen:
Top hostels we recommend in Haidhausen: Haus Isartor
More on Germany:
- Ultimate Germany Travel Guide
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- 30 Germany Photos That Will Spark Your Wanderlust
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