Munich is a city that wears many hats. It’s famous for its incredible architecture, diverse art, football team, and, of course, Oktoberfest.
As it’s such a popular destination, Munich is also full of places to stay. It’s also quite an expensive destination, with prices soaring during Oktoberfest. That being said, the pricetags shouldn’t put you off! Munich is an expansive destination that should feature on every backpacker’s bucket list.
To help you figure out exactly where to stay in Munich, we’ve done the research and found the five best neighborhoods. We’ve also included the top activity and accommodation picks in each area, so you know exactly what you’re getting.
Whether you’re backpacking on a shoestring budget, planning a family vacation, or anything in between, we’ve got you covered.
Looking for a specific place to stay? Perhaps one of the epic Munich hostels or maybe something more elegant?
These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Munich.
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Best Airbnb in Munich: Luxury Loft next to Marienplatz
Whether you’re deciding where to stay in Munich for Oktoberfest or are looking for somewhere that’s cozy and private, check out this stunning studio. It’s pet-friendly and has everything you need for a comfortable stay, including a full kitchen and wifi. Situated just in Isarvorstadt, it’s got a prime location for exploring the city.
Best Hostel in Munich: Wombats City Hostel Munich
Wombats City is our top choice for where to stay in Munich on a budget. It’s centrally located and just a short walk from Old Town – so you can explore the city with ease. You’ll be well connected to public transit, restaurants, and bars.
Best of all, this fun and funky hostel has a great social atmosphere, laundry facilities, and relaxing hammocks. It’s our favourite hostel in Munich, and is ideally situated close to Oktoberfest grounds.
Best Hotel in Munich: Hotel Blauer Bock
A convenient location, fabulous décor, and spacious rooms are just a few of the reasons Hotel Blauer Bock is our top pick for where to stay in Munich. This modern hotel has a coffee bar, bike rentals, and spacious rooms. There’s also a great on-site restaurant and a stylish lounge bar.
Coolest Place to Stay in Munich: Ibis Munich City North Hotel
The Ibis Munich City North is a great base for exploring Schwabing, our pick for one of the coolest areas in Munich. With a terrace, bar, and on-site restaurant, you’ll be comfortable no matter how long you stay.
The hotel is a short walk from the Alte Heide Station, and close to Englischer Garten.
Altstadt
Altstadt is the historic centre of Munich. It’s made up of charming cobblestone streets and expansive medieval squares.
Isavorstadt
Isavorstadt is a lively and vibrant neighbourhood that is part of Munich’s second district. Just outside of Altstadt, Isavorstadt is centrally located with a great variety of bars, clubs, pubs and restaurants, yet a much more affordable option than Alstadt.
Maxvorstadt
Located between the city centre and the suburbs, Maxvorstadt is a hub for Munich’s arts scene. It’s home to a wealth of museums and art galleries as well as universities and cultural institutions.
Schwabing
Schwabing is one of the most eclectic and coolest places to stay in Munich. It is Munich’s artistic quarter as well as its wealthiest and most desirable district. This contrast is what makes Schwabing quite unique.
Haidhausen
Haidhausen is a downtown neighbourhood located across the river from Altstadt. Its history dates back more than 1,200 years to when Haidhausen was once one of the poorest districts of the city.
As the largest city in Bavaria, Munich has a diverse history, thriving cultural scene, vibrant nightlife, and lush natural landscape.
It’s also home to the famous annual German festival Oktoberfest, whose beer tents and steins attract thousands of revellers from all over the world.
Altstadt is the historic and geographic heart of Munich. A pedestrianised zone, Altstadt is where you’ll find the majority of Munich’s tourist attractions, including Marienplatz, as well as shopping and great restaurants.
To the north, you have the district of Maxvorstadt. Considered the cultural centre of Munich, here you’ll find a great variety of museums and art galleries. It has a lively and vibrant student population and is home to Munich’s best nightlife scene.
Right next door is Isavorstadt, our top pick for where to stay in Munich on a budget. It’s got slightly cheaper accommodation options, so you can worry less about where you’re sleeping and more about where the next stein is coming from.
Schwabing is an exciting and eclectic neighbourhood. It’s full of quirky bars and coffee shops, as well as various cultural attractions.
Across the Iskar River are Haidhausen and East Munich. These two areas are amongst the oldest in the city. They have stunning architecture and a plethora of thriving restaurants and family-friendly attractions.
Still not sure where to stay in Munich? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
5 Best Areas to Stay in Munich
Now, let’s take a look in more detail at the five best areas in Munich. Each is a little different than the last, so be sure to check out which is right for you!
1. Altstadt – Where to Stay in Munich for your First Visit
Altstadt is the historic center of Munich. It’s made up of charming cobblestone streets and expansive medieval squares. This area of Munich is home to the city’s most famous and recognizable tourist attractions and landmarks, making it the best place to stay in Munich for the first time.
Culture vultures who want to check Munich’s top attractions off their list will love exploring Altstadt. Tucked around every corner are iconic sights and architectural gems, including the Altes and Neues Rathaus, Hofgarten, and the State Chancellery.
Best Airbnb in Altstadt: Luxury Loft next to Marienplatz
This stunning apartment in Munich is suitable for three guests and was recently refurbished. It’s filled with natural light and features top-style amenities, including a full sound system and high-speed internet. Numerous top attractions are an easy walk away, and public transport is easy to reach if you want to travel further afield.
Best Hostel in Altstadt: Smart Stay Hotel
Situated just outside Altstadt, Smart Stay Hotel provides affordable and comfortable living no matter how long you stay. Breakfast is provided for a surcharge so you can fuel up each morning before a day of exploring.
Best Hotel in Altstadt: Hotel Blauer Bock
This hotel is one of the best places to stay in Munich, thanks to its convenient and central location, wonderful rooms, and excellent amenities. Guests can enjoy a lounge, a coffee bar, and an on-site restaurant. They also offer a bike rental, so you can explore the city with ease.
Best Hotel in Altstadt: Hotel ADRIA Munchen
Hotel ADRIA Munchen is conveniently located in the center of the city. It is close to great shopping, delicious restaurants, and Munich’s exciting nightlife scene. Each room is stylishly decorated and features cable/satellite TV, a private bathroom, and a minibar. There’s even an on-site golf course!
Things to See and Do in Altstadt:
- Admire the detail of the Altes Rathaus, Munich’s old city hall that was originally built in 1474 and rebuilt following World War II.
- Browse the shops and stalls of Viktualienmarkt, a large open-air market.
- Dance the night away at Frauen 26, one of Munich’s best-kept secrets.
- Enjoy great beer and traditional Germany food at the Marienplatz.
- Grab a drink and spend an afternoon people watching at Hofbräuhaus, one of the most famous brewpubs in Munich.
- See antiques and armour, artefacts and more from the Middle Ages through the early-20th-century at the Bayerisches Nationalmuseum.
- Visit the Neues Rathaus and let the magical figures of the Glockenspiel entertain you with their musical show.
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Learn More Now!2. Isavorstadt – Where to Stay in Munich on a Budget
Isavorstadt is a lively and vibrant neighborhood in Munich’s second district. Just outside of Altstadt, Isavorstadt is centrally located with a great variety of bars, clubs, and pubs, yet a much more affordable option than Alstadt. This makes it our top pick for those backpacking Germany on a budget.
One of the hippest districts in the city, Isavorstadt is very popular amongst Munich’s younger population who like to gather to enjoy craft beer, good cocktails, and a night on the town.
But there’s more to Isavorstadt than just beer. This south-central neighbourhood is also where you’ll find world-renowned museums, cultural institutions, incredible restaurants and some of the best views in the city.
Best Airbnb in Isavorstadt: City Studio at Schwan Locke
This stylish studio provides a private and luxurious retreat that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg! It’s ideally located for visiting Oktoberfest, but also provides a gateway into a less touristy side of the city. The studio has all the creature comforts of home, like a full kitchen, wifi, and air conditioning.
Best Hostel in Isavorstadt: Wombats City Hostel Munich
Wombats City is a fun and funky hostel – and our top choice for where to stay in Isavorstadt. A short walk from Altstadt, this hostel is also close to public transit so you can visit the rest of Munich with ease.
It has a great social atmosphere and guests will love relaxing in hammocks in the glass-roofed terrace. If you are visiting Munich for Oktoberfest, this is the perfect base for backpackers and social travelers looking to meet people to enjoy the festival with.
Best Hotel in Isavorstadt: mk hotel Munich
At the mk hotel, visitors can enjoy stylish accommodation in the heart of Munich. While just outside of the city centre, the hotel is close to Munich’s Hauptbahnhof and is walking distance to top attractions. Back at the hotel, there’s a restaurant, bar, and room service available.
Best Hotel in Isavorstadt: Hotel Stachus
Rooms at the Stachus combine contemporary design with comfortable furnishings. A buffet breakfast is provided (for an extra cost), so you can fuel up before a day of exploring. The hotel is situated walking distance from top attractions including the Hofbräuhaus, and the train station is just five minutes away.
Things to See and Do in Isavorstadt:
- Enjoy a cold beer and a traditional currywurst at Bergwolf.
- Grab a seat at the Bavariapark beer garden, a 1500 seat pub that’s always bursting with activity and life.
- Stand in awe of St. Paul’s Church, the second largest church in Munich whose bell tower stands nearly 100 meters tall. Climb to the top of the tower for an incredible view over Munich to the Alps.
- Travelling in late-September? Grab a pint and join the party at Oktoberfest, the world’s largest beer festival.
- Try traditional German food with a modern twist at Roecklplatz.
- Visit the Deutsches Museum and explore one of Europe’s best science and technology exhibitions.
- Visit the famous Paulaner brewery and enjoy a pint (or two) at its fantastic beer garden.
3. Maxvorstadt – Where to Stay in Munich for Nightlife
Located between the city center and the suburbs, Maxvorstadt is a hub for Munich’s arts scene. It’s home to a wealth of museums and art galleries, as well as universities and cultural institutions. Tourists and locals flock to this area throughout the day and night to enjoy its fantastic displays, excellent restaurants, and world-class exhibitions.
Because of Maxvorstadt’s high volume of students and young people, it’s also one of the best places to stay if partying is high on your Munich itinerary. From rock clubs and quiet pubs to exciting eateries and all-night dance parties, this area of the city is where you’ll find a variety of things to do at night, no matter who you are.
Looking for the best places to drink beer in Munich? Check this post!
Best Hostel in Maxvorstadt: The 4You Hostel Munich
Comfortable, spacious, and packed with amenities – the 4You Hostel is one of our top picks for where to stay in Maxvorstadt and one of our favourite hostels in Munich.
It has private and shared accommodations, and each bed has its own reading light and locker. A delicious continental breakfast buffet is also provided.
Best Hotel in Maxvorstadt: VI VADI HOTEL Downtown Munich
Just a ten-minute walk from Munich Central Station, you won’t find a better located hotel in Maxvorstadt.
This charming three-star hotel features 120 recently refurbished rooms each equipped with cable/satellite TV, private bathrooms, and comfortable beds. The hotel offers a laundry service, airport transfers, and a daily breakfast buffet.
We also love their in-house Italian restaurant, and there is a wide choice of eating options in the surrounding area.
Best Hotel in Maxvorstadt: Hotel Erzgiesserei Europe
Enjoy modern accommodation at the heart of Maxvorstadt at the Hotel Erzgiesserei Europe. Situated within walking distance of public transport, this hotel is well-connected to the rest of the city.
Each room comes with slippers, a flat-screen TV, and free wifi. There’s also a splendid breakfast buffet.
Best Airbnb in Maxvorstadt: Easygoing Studio for Two
This stunning studio flat in Maxvorstadt is perfect for couples or solo travelers deciding where to stay in Munich. The studio is comfortably furnished and includes a kitchenette and laundry facilities. It’s also pet-friendly, so you can bring Fido along!
Easygoing Studio for Two is one of our favourites in Munich but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Things to See and Do in Maxvorstadt:
- Dance until dawn at Bob Beaman, one of the best clubs in the city.
- Dine on delicious fare at Electric Elephant, a minimalistic restaurant that pumps techno music.
- Drink beer and meet new people at the ultra-hip and modern FOX.
- Enjoy cheap food, good beer and a welcoming local atmosphere at Alter Simpl.
- Sample local beers and dishes at Alter Ofen, a Maxvorstadt institution.
- See brilliant works of art by great European masters at the Alte Pinakothek.
- Sit back, relax, and take in a film at Cinema, a fantastic theatre that screens original versions of English language films.
- Take a tour of the Lowenbrau brewery and enjoy a few pints at this historic institution that dates all the way back to the late-14th century!
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Buy an eSIM!4. Schwabing – Coolest Place to Stay in Munich
Schwabing is one of the most eclectic places to stay in Munich. It’s the artistic quarter as well as its wealthiest and most desirable district, and this contrast makes Schwabing quite unique.
Located north of the city center, Schwabing is a magnet for tourists and locals alike. It’s home to a great variety of chic boutique and local designers, innovative restaurants, cozy cafes, and trendy bars and clubs. You’ll also find world-class museums and one-of-a-kind art installations.
One of Schwabing’s most famous attractions is the Englischer Garten. A massive urban green space, the Englischer Garten spans more than 900 acres and has intricate temples, charming teahouses, and lush verdant lawn.
Best Airbnb in Schwabing: Private Guest Room in central area
Enjoy a comfortable stay in this high-end apartment with a roof-top terrace in a central area of Munich. The tram stop right in front of the building takes you to the very center of Munich, so you can easily explore the city. If you wish to exclusively book the entire apartment for 4 or more people, you can contact the owner directly and discuss prices.
Best Hostel in Schwabing: Meininger Munich Olympiapark
The Meininger sits just north of Schwabing-West and provides some of the best budget accommodation in Munich! The rooms and facilities are clean and modern, and free wifi is available throughout. After a day of exploring, there’s an outdoor terrace, bar, and games room to wind down in.
Best Hotel in Schwabing: Steigenberger Hotel Munchen
The Steigenberger Hotel Munich is a stylish and modern hotel – and our top choice for where to stay in Schwabing. It’s got four stars and is well-connected to restaurants, bars, clubs, and shopping. Onsite, guests can enjoy a stylish bistro, comfortable lounge bar, and a relaxing library.
Best Hotel in Schwabing: Ibis Munich City North Hotel
Cute and convenient, the Ibis Munich City North is a great base for your time in Schwabing. Bars, eateries and shops are close by. The hotel has a terrace, bar, and an onsite restaurant. Rooms have comfortable beds, private bathrooms, and satellite TV.
Things to See and Do in Schwabing:
- Dance to the best hip-hop and RnB at Deluxe Munich.
- Dig your teeth into fresh and delicious Greek food at the very hip and popular Cavos Taverna.
- Enjoy pints in the sun at Aumeister, one of Munich’s best beer gardens. You’ll find it at the north end of Englischer Garden.
- Pack a picnic and enjoy an afternoon on the lawns of the stunning Englischer Garten.
- Party all night long in a former power plant at infamous club Freiheiz.
- Rent a bike and cruise along the trails that weave throughout this gorgeous neighbourhood.
- Sample dishes from one of Germany’s best chefs at Tantris. The prices are high, but the experience is worth it.
- Shop until you drop on Leopoldstrasse, one of Munich’s main boulevards, which is home to everything from high-end designers to high street fashions.
5. Haidhausen – Best Area in Munich for Families
Haidhausen is a downtown neighbourhood located across the river from Altstadt. Its history dates back more than 1,200 years to when Haidhausen was once one of the poorest districts of the city.
Today, Haidhausen is a popular and thriving residential area. Thanks to its stunning architecture, lush landscapes, and close connection to the city centre, Haidhausen is our top choice for where to stay in Munich for families.
Haidhausen is packed with activities and attractions that will excite and entertain all members of the family. From skate parks and cinemas to climbing walls and parks, there’s plenty to see and do in this part of the city. One of Haidhausen’s main attractions is its beautiful riverbanks, which are perfect for relaxing and enjoying a stunning sunset after a long day of sightseeing.
Best Hostel in Haidhausen: HI Munich Park
Modern and cosy, this Haidhausen hostel is perfect for families visiting Munich. A short metro ride from the city centre, it is close to restaurants, parks, and Munich’s best landmarks.
This hostel has a delicious all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet, free wifi, and three spacious common rooms. There is also a bistro and vending machines.
Best Hotel in Haidhausen: Mariahilf
Mariahilf is a charming and quaint three-star hotel located in Munich’s Haidhausen district. It is close to the Deutsches Museum, as well as bars, restaurants, and parks.
Its rooms are comfortable and spacious, perfect for families. Enjoy a range of modern amenities and comfortable features.
Best Hotel in Haidhausen: Am Nockherberg Hotel
This three-star hotel is classic, clean and comfortable. Situated in Haidhausen, it is close to the Englischer Garten, which is a fantastic place to hang with family and friends. Rooms are comfortable and modern, and. a lavish breakfast is provided to fuel you up for a day of exploring.
Best Airbnb in Haidhausen: Modern and Spacious Home
This awesome Munich Airbnb is located in the Kustermannpark, in Munich-Haidhausen. It has three rooms, each of them with a view of the city. There’s a spacious bathroom and a fully equipped kitchen, so you can feel right at home.
Modern and Spacious Home is one of our favourites in Munich but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Things to See and Do in Haidhausen:
- Learn about space, planets, the universe and beyond at the Bavarian Public Observatory Munich. For an incredible view, visit the 300 square meter observation platform and peer through the telescopes.
- Enjoy a peaceful and relaxing day at Maximiliansanlagen, a gorgeous park that runs along the river.
- Test your skills and race to the top at Boulderwelt Munchen Ost, a climbing wall suitable for all ages and levels.
- Run, jump, laugh and play at Kulti-Kids, a massive indoor and outdoor adventure park.
- Dine on everything from pizza to pasta at Gast. An open concept kitchen, kids will be mesmerized by the action as they watch their food being prepared.
FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Munich
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Munich and where to stay.
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Munich
Munich is one of the coolest destinations in Europe. This southern German city is bursting with history, culture, cuisine, and fun! Moreover, it’s a relatively rich city, meaning curated art, architecture, green parks, and clean streets are always at your fingertips.
Whether you’re a culture vulture, history buff, party animal, or somewhere in between, there’s something for everyone in Munich!
If you’re still not sure where to stay, you can’t go wrong in Altstadt! It’s a microcosm of everything on offer in the city, and is well-connected to the rest of the neighbourhoods in this guide.
For a budget option, check out Wombats City Hostel Munich for its excellent social atmosphere and central location.
For something more upmarket, Hotel Blauer Bock is our favorite hotel in the city. It’s got a central location, modern décor, and a very reasonable price point.
Have we missed anything? Let us know in the comments below!
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And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
