Germany’s extensive autobahn network connects Munich to wider Bavaria and beyond, with routes leading to most other major cities. Getting in and out of Munich is a breeze too, as the centre is ringed by a series of multi-lane roads and expressways.

The Bavarian capital’s prime location within Germany makes it an ideal gateway for exploring the nation further. There are several scenic day trips you can take within a few hours of the city centre. The ski resort of Garmisch-Partenkirchen in the foothills of the Alps is just 90 minutes away and is popular with hikers and winter sports enthusiasts alike. Slightly further out of the city lies the Eagle’s Nest, which sits atop Kehlstein in the Berchtesgaden Alps. The mountainous escape was a government outpost and command centre for the Nazi Party during WWII. 

Munich centre is around 24-miles away from the city airport, a quick half hour’s drive. To get there, you’ll first need to head along the A92, before turning off for the A9 – a straight line into the Bavarian capital. It’s worth remembering that Germany drives on the right-hand side of the road, as in much of Europe.

Contrary to popular belief, much of Germany’s autobahn network does have enforced speed limits. Though quieter areas of the expressways are free of speed-limits, much of the inter-city routes are restricted to around 80mph (128km/h).

Munich itself can get a little congested, especially during rush hour. Parking is also limited, so it’s best to stick to managed spaces and multi-storey car parks.

Munich is well-connected with much of wider Europe, the Austrian border and charming city of Salzburg is just a short drive away. Meanwhile, Switzerland and the tiny principality of Liechtenstein are just a few hours in the opposite direction.

Drive around Munich and you’re sure to notice the impressive array of architecture that the city is fabled for. However, the charming city centre is where you’ll find the most famous examples, as well as a host of activities and attractions.

Munich’s iconic buildings

Central Munich suffered greatly from Allied bombing raids during WWII, but some of the old city still remains, while others which were destroyed have been rebuilt to historical specifications.

The twin domes of the Frauenkirche provide perhaps Munich’s most iconic image, the cathedral serving as a symbol of the city.

Nearby is the 19^th century Neues Rathaus, the New Town Hall, which is one of the best examples of German Gothic architecture. Residing in the Hall’s tower is the intricately crafted Glockenspiel, the story-telling timepiece featuring 43 bells and 32 clockwork life-sized figures that recount tales from Bavarian history throughout the day.

Fairy-tale Castles

South of Munich lies the awe-inspiring Neuschwanstein Castle. The former royal palace has inspired many a film and fairy tale over the centuries and is one of Germany’s most famous landmarks.

Constructed in the 19^th century Romanesque period, the expansive castle was originally built by King Ludwig II of Bavaria to fulfil a life-long ambition. However, Ludwig never resided in Neuschwanstein, dying before the castle’s completion.

Sitting atop a rugged peak among verdant woodland, you may recognise the castle from the classic children’s film “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang”.

Holocaust Memorial Sites

North of Munich is the poignant memorial to the darkest period in Germany’s long history. Dachau Concentration Camp was liberated on 29 April 1945 by US soldiers and has since opened as a memorial site and reminder of the horrors committed in German death camps during the Holocaust.

Originally opened in the early 1930s as a prison for political prisoners and opponents of the Third Reich, the German camp became of the most feared and fabled of WWII’s concentration camps. In the year before its liberation, Dachau held near 63,000 prisoners.

With impressive architecture, fabled festivals and a long history, it’s no surprise that Munich is one of Germany’s most celebrated cities. Whether you’re staying in the city or exploring wider Germany, make car hire at Munich airport the first step in your Bavarian adventure.